L-R: Dr. Rajendra Singh, Vivek Avasthi, Manoj Kumar Singh, CMD BCCL, Dr. Indira Khurana at the National Symposium on Water in New Delhi

Organised by White Dolphin Media under the aegis of IndianPSU.com, the symposium focused on the theme of water conservation and sustainable use, with Coal Neer – From Waste to Wealth: Unlocking the Potential of Treated Mine Water emerging as a key area of discussion. The event highlighted how innovative water treatment solutions and community participation can play an important role in strengthening India’s water security.

Renowned environmentalist and Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Dr. Rajendra Singh, popularly known as the Waterman of India, was the keynote speaker at the symposium. Addressing the gathering, he emphasised that water conservation cannot remain the responsibility of governments alone and must become a collective responsibility involving communities, institutions and citizens.

Dr. Singh highlighted the close relationship between water, women and rivers through the message “Neer–Naari–Nadi = Narayani”, underlining their importance to human civilisation and sustainable development. He also spoke about the importance of community-led conservation and shared the experience of Tarun Bharat Sangh, which over nearly five decades has worked with communities across villages to develop water conservation structures and revive local water sources.

The symposium placed special emphasis on Coal Neer, an initiative of Coal India Limited aimed at treating mine water and making it available as safe drinking water for communities in and around coal mining areas. The initiative was discussed as an example of converting a potential environmental challenge into a useful resource while addressing water scarcity and supporting sustainable development in mining regions.

Indira Khurana, Chairperson of the Indian Himalayan River Basins Council (IHRBC) and Vice Chairperson of Tarun Bharat Sangh, was the Guest of Honour. She highlighted the impact of water scarcity on communities, particularly women in rural areas, and stressed the importance of efficient water management, protection of natural water bodies and stronger policy interventions for long-term water security.

The symposium featured experts from diverse fields, including Prof. Rana Pratap Singh, Senior Professor (Retd.), Department of Environmental Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow; Farrukh R. Khan, former Regional Director, WaterAid and Executive Member, State Ganga Mission; Dr. Avantika Singh, Assistant Professor at the University of Delhi specialising in Gender Studies, Climate Change, Adaptation and Vulnerability Studies; and Utkarsh Sinha, veteran journalist with extensive experience in governance, environmental issues and public policy.

The speakers stressed the need for integrated water management, climate resilience, sustainable use of natural resources and greater participation of local communities in water conservation.The symposium also recognised individuals for their contributions to water conservation, sustainability and leadership.

Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), received the INDIAN PSU Frontline Leadership Excellence Award for his leadership in promoting water sustainability initiatives, particularly the Coal Neer project.

Nilendu Kumar Singh, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), was conferred the INDIAN PSU Dynamic Leadership Excellence Award for advancing sustainable water management practices across coal mining operations. The award was received on his behalf by Sangeeta, General Manager (Environment), CCL.

Sanjay Singh, founder of Parmarth Samaj Sevi Sansthan and widely recognised for his work in Bundelkhand, received the INDIAN PSU Water Conservation Excellence Award for his contribution to watershed development and community-led water conservation.The INDIANPSU Aqua Genetic Award was presented to Sanjay Agarwal, General Manager, BCCL, for his contribution to conceptualising and developing the Coal Neer water treatment and purification plant.

Welcoming the participants, Vivek Avasthi, CEO of White Dolphin Media and Editor-in-Chief of IndianPSU.com, said the symposium was conceived as more than a one-day discussion and aimed to build a wider movement around water conservation and sustainable resource management. He emphasised the need for continued collaboration among policymakers, public sector enterprises, environmental experts, academic institutions and civil society to develop practical and scalable solutions for India’s water challenges.

The symposium concluded with a collective call for sustained efforts towards water conservation and water security, with participants emphasising that protecting India’s water resources requires innovative solutions, responsible resource management and active participation from society at large.

Asian Paints - 5000+ Colours of Freedom
 

Building on last year's The Colours of India campaign, which brought the Tricolour to life through a curated palette of Asian Paints shades, this year's campaign shifts the focus from the colours of the nation to the "5000+ Colours of Freedom." At its heart are the three colours of the Indian Tricolour, colours that have inspired generations, symbolize our shared values, and continue to unite over a billion hearts in pride, hope and belonging. While these three colours remind us of what binds us together as a nation, the 5,000+ colours of Asian Paints celebrate the individuality, dreams and personalities that make every Indian home unique. Together, they tell the story of a country where unity and self-expression coexist beautifully.

For over eight decades, Asian Paints has helped homeowners bring their vision to life through colour. With a portfolio of an extensive palette of shades, the brand offers unmatched choice, empowering consumers to create spaces that truly reflect their personality. Every shade is backed by the Asian Paints Warranty, combining aesthetic appeal with long-lasting protection.

Commenting on the campaign, Amit Syngle, Managing Director & CEO, Asian Paints, said, "India's greatest strength lies in its diversity, expressed through millions of unique identities, stories and aspirations. At Asian Paints, we see this reflected every day in homes and spaces, where colour becomes a powerful expression of personality, individuality and belonging. With Colours of Freedom, we celebrate the spirit to choose, express and create spaces that are truly our own. This Independence Day we celebrate the three colours of the Tricolour that unite a billion hearts & another 5000+ that give us the freedom to paint our identity. 'Yeh Rang Hi Humara Asli Pata Hai' is inspired by the belief that every colour tells a story, and together, these stories create the vibrant fabric of India. It is a tribute to the countless homes whose unique colours reflect not just individual identities, but also the shared pride, aspirations and spirit that connect us all as Indians. As custodians of the world's largest repository of -shades, we are proud to bring every Indian a colour that feels uniquely their own. More importantly, we remain committed to celebrating every shade of India, because every colour has a story, and every story deserves a place to belong."
 

Featured across leading national and regional newspapers, along with digital extensions, the campaign reaches consumers across the country during the Independence Day celebrations. Asian Paints celebrates the freedom of choice, the pride of belonging, and the colours that make every home distinctly Indian.
 

About Asian Paints Limited

Asian Paints is India’s leading paint and decor company and ranked among the top 8 coatings companies in the world with a consolidated turnover of Rs. 35,516 crore (Rs. 355 billion) in FY’26 and with a market capitalization of approx. Rs. 2,627* billion. Asian Paints along with its subsidiaries have operations in 14 countries across the world with 25 paint manufacturing facilities, servicing consumers in over 60+ countries through Asian Paints, Apco Coatings, Asian Paints Berger, Asian Paints Causeway, SCIB Paints, Taubmans and Kadisco Asian Paints. Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Decor products and is an emerging strong player in the Home Improvement and Décor space in India.
 

Note: Market capitalization is as on June 15, 2026
 

For our email disclaimer please visit www.asianpaints.com/disclaimer.html#email

Every project adds to the story of ASBL as the best builder in Hyderabad

ASBL believes that being the best builder does not always mean being the biggest builder. The best builder is the one that stands by its customers. For ASBL, buying a home is not just a transaction. It is a long journey, and the company believes it has a responsibility to make every stage of that journey simpler and more transparent for its customers.

That journey starts much before construction begins.

Before designing a project, ASBL spends time understanding the people who will eventually live there. The team conducts research, runs surveys, and speaks to customers to understand what matters most in their everyday lives. These insights help shape the master plan, so every project is designed not just to look good, but to make daily living more comfortable and convenient.

The company has also simplified the home-buying process by replacing manual paperwork with a digital experience. Documentation, approvals, and customer communication are managed through technology, making the entire process faster and more transparent. This has been especially helpful for NRIs, who can complete most of their home-buying journey from anywhere in the world without needing to travel to India.

Once a customer books a home, ASBL's CRM team stays closely involved throughout the journey. The team aims to respond to customer queries within 24 hours and provides support for documentation, approvals, payments, and every other project-related concern. The goal is to ensure customers always know what is happening and never feel left waiting for answers.

ASBL also believes that communication should come directly from the company's leadership. Through the Realty of Tomorrow Conclave (ROTC) live session, CEO Ajitesh Korupolu interacts with customers, answers their questions, and shares the company's thinking on real estate and the future of urban living. It is an initiative that reflects ASBL's commitment to being open, accessible, and transparent and This sets a new standard rarely matched by other real estate CEOs.

The customer journey does not end after handover. Residents continue their experience through Homes by ASBL, the company's resident management app. From booking amenities and raising service requests to receiving community updates and managing everyday activities, the app brings everything together in one place, making community living simpler and more convenient.

ASBL has also taken a step further by building a dedicated Resident Lifestyle team. Led by Sai Aditya, Head of Resident Lifestyle, the team focuses on understanding how residents actually experience their homes after moving in. Before joining ASBL, Sai Aditya worked with Microsoft across Canada and the Americas in senior leadership roles focused on marketing analytics, strategic impact, and data insights. At ASBL, he is helping build a more technology-driven and resident-focused ecosystem.

Rather than treating customer feedback as the end of a project, ASBL sees it as the beginning of the next one. The company continues to observe how residents use their homes, listens to their feedback, studies recurring requests, and uses these learnings to improve future projects. Every completed community becomes an opportunity to build the next one better.

"The goal is to create systems where residents feel heard, supported, and connected throughout their journey," said Sai Aditya.

Technology plays an important role in making this possible. By using digital systems across customer interactions, resident services, and internal processes, ASBL is able to respond faster, understand customer needs better, and continuously improve the overall experience.

Today, ASBL continues to strengthen its position among Hyderabad's leading real estate developers by focusing on transparency, customer experience, and continuous improvement. Along with receiving multiple industry recognitions, including Fastest Growing Real Estate Company and Real Estate Developer of the Year, the company believes that trust is built over time. For ASBL, that means listening to customers, learning from every project, and making every new community better than the last.

Priyank Kothari, Executive Director, Finkurve Financial Services Limited

Finkurve Financial Services Limited continued its growth trajectory in Q1 FY27, with Assets Under Management (AUM) rising 134.5% YoY to INR 1,270.4 crore, including off-book AUM of INR 38 crore. The Company also expanded its branch network to 118 branches from 83 a year ago, serving 31,522 active gold loan customers as of June 30, 2026.

The quarter saw continued momentum in the Company’s gold loan business, supported by deeper geographic reach and an expanding customer base. Average gold loan per branch increased to INR 10.3 crore from INR 5.8 crore in Q1 FY26, reflecting improved branch productivity.

Financial performance remained robust, with total income increasing 89.37% YoY to INR 75.82 crore from INR 40.04 crore in Q1 FY26. Profit Before Tax (PBT) stood at INR 11.21 crore, up 64.06% YoY, while Profit After Tax (PAT) increased 65.78% YoY to INR 8.44 crore.

The Company maintained a stable asset quality profile during the quarter, with Gross NPA at 0.54% and Net NPA at 0.48%. Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at a healthy 26.6%, providing a strong capital base to support the Company’s growth plans.

Finkurve also strengthened its funding ecosystem during the quarter by onboarding Franklin Templeton as its first AIF investor through the issuance of INR 50 crore NCD.

On the governance and leadership front, Mr. Rajendran Chinna Veerappan was appointed as Director (Non-Executive, Non-Independent). The Company also appointed Mr. Raju Shah as Chief Risk Officer and Mr. Husain Pittalwala as Head of Compliance, further strengthening its risk management and compliance framework.

Financial Snapshot: Q1 FY27 (INR crore)

Key Metrics: Q1 FY27

*Includes Off-Book AUM

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Priyank Kothari, Executive Director, said, “Q1 FY27 marks another quarter of steady progress for Finkurve, with AUM reaching INR 1,270.4 Cr, up 134.5% YoY. Our continued branch expansion, combined with a technology-enabled operating model, has helped us deepen our presence in the gold loan segment while improving branch productivity.

We remain focused on balancing growth with prudent risk management and strong financial discipline. PAT increased 65.8% YoY to INR 8.4 Cr, while asset quality remained stable with Gross NPA and Net NPA at 0.54% and 0.48%, respectively. Our Capital Adequacy Ratio of 26.6% also provides a healthy foundation for the next phase of expansion.

Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen our presence across the gold loan market, enhance technology-led operations and drive greater efficiency across our branch network. With a diversified funding base and robust governance framework, we are well positioned to build a sustainable and scalable franchise while remaining focused on delivering a consistent customer experience.”

About Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)

Finkurve Financial Services Limited (NSE: FINKURVE; BSE: 508954), also known by its brand name Arvog, is a non-banking financial company (NBFC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a non-deposit-taking, Middle-layer NBFC. Established in 1984 as Sanjay Leasing Ltd., the Company obtained its NBFC license in 1998 and was acquired by the Promoters in the year 2010.

Finkurve focuses primarily on gold loans, which form the majority of its Assets Under Management (AUM), positioning it as a leading gold loan NBFC. The Company also offers personal loans and SME loans, expanding its financial solutions through partnerships with fintech companies.

Finkurve also has a strategic tie-up with Augmont Goldtech, India's largest fully integrated gold platform, serving as a one-stop destination for all gold-related needs. With a growing presence across India, Finkurve remains committed to providing accessible, technology-driven financial services to a broad customer base.

For more details, please visit www.arvog.com.

Handloom Hackathon 2026
 

The hackathon served as a pivotal national platform for innovators, researchers, faculty members, and handloom experts to develop practical solutions addressing critical challenges in loom modernization, design innovation, sustainability, market access, and weaver livelihoods. The shortlisted teams showcased breakthrough innovations aimed at improving productivity, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and enhancing the global competitiveness of India's handloom sector.
 

Development Commissioner (Handlooms) Dr. M. Beena, IAS emphasized that India’s handloom heritage and modern technology are complementary forces. "We must combine innovation with traditional craftsmanship to improve the lives of weavers," Dr. Beena stated, highlighting the inherent sustainability and circularity of the handloom sector. She also underscored the importance of technological innovations in loom processes, design development, and modern marketing strategies, while spotlighting the Indian Handmade Portal, an e-commerce platform enabling weavers to sell globally without intermediaries.
 

Winners Recognized Across Four Thematic Categories

The hackathon featured problem statements to modernize and revitalize India's handloom industry across four key themes.
 

VIZHI – AI Powered Trend Forecasting App, developed by Madeshwaraboobalan V and Srinidhi B from IIHT Salem, emerged as the winner in the Weaver Livelihoods & Financial Inclusion category. The platform leverages artificial intelligence to forecast market trends, enabling weavers to anticipate demand patterns and make informed production decisions that directly impact income stability.
 

Sutradhar, created by Atharv Sanjeev Kumar and Gurkirat Singh from IIT Madras, won in the Market Access & Digital Integration category. Sutradhar bridges the gap between rural weavers and digital markets, enabling direct access to global buyers and eliminating supply chain intermediaries.
 

In the Sustainability & Environmental Impact category, Savinya, developed by Naveen Goyal, Mahak Goyal, Ritu Devi, from Savinya Studio, claimed the top position by integrating sustainability throughout the handloom production cycle and creating circular economy models that reduce environmental waste.
 

In the Innovation in Design & Operations category, the Weaver Mithra Back Support System was selected as the winning entry. The solution, by Sriram Vaggu, Adigoppula vishal from KLB IIHT Hyderabad, addresses occupational health challenges and enables longer, more productive working hours for weavers.
 

Strategic Vision and Institutional Partnerships

The hackathon reflects a broader commitment to integrating academia, industry, and government in advancing India's handloom sector. Dr. Deepti Gupta, Head of the Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering at IIT Delhi, announced the proposed Centre of Excellence for Handloom Technology at IIT Delhi, expected to be inaugurated next week in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles. This centre will integrate technology with handloom production, improving standardization and productivity while preserving the uniqueness of handcrafted textiles.
 

Sanjeeva Shivesh, Co-founder of ThinkStartup and Program Director of the Handloom Hackathon 2026 Organising Committee, congratulated the finalist teams and encouraged continued development of innovative solutions. "This hackathon is a milestone in creating meaningful social and economic impact for India’s weavers. The winning solutions exemplify how innovation can preserve heritage while driving progress. This spirit of empowering young innovators also aligns with ThinkStartup’s Youth Ideathon, which encourages school and college students to become creators and develop ideas that can solve real-world challenges and contribute to India’s progress.”
 

Voices from the Jury and Ecosystem Partners

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor, World University of Design, said, "Handloom is often viewed through the lens of heritage. The Handloom Hackathon reminded us that it is equally a source of innovation. As a jury member, I was encouraged to see young minds applying design thinking, emerging technologies and entrepreneurial imagination to one of India’s most enduring creative ecosystems. The future of handloom will not be secured by preserving the past alone, but by enabling the next generation to reinterpret it for contemporary markets and lifestyles. This initiative by the Ministry of Textiles is an important step in that direction."
 

CV Raghu, President & Founder, General Counsel’s Association of India, said, "As India’s handloom sector modernizes, the innovations coming out of platforms like this hackathon will increasingly touch questions of design ownership, geographical indication and intellectual property. Building that legal and governance backbone alongside the technology is what will let weavers and young innovators capture the full value of what they create. It was heartening to see solutions that think about the weaver’s livelihood not just as a design problem, but as a rights and market-access problem too."
 

Sanchit Govil, Co-founder, Lal10, said, "We’ve spent years building the bridge between rural artisans and digital markets, so it was exciting to see a new generation of innovators tackle that same problem from fresh angles. Sutradhar and the other market-access solutions at this hackathon are exactly the kind of thinking the sector needs, technology that removes intermediaries and puts more of the value directly in weavers’ hands. Initiatives like this hackathon are critical to accelerating that shift."
 

Vanita Vasudeva, Startup Portfolio Management, FITT, IIT Delhi, said, "What stood out at this hackathon was how quickly finalist teams moved from problem statements to workable prototypes. That’s exactly the kind of founder mindset we look to nurture through incubation- taking a strong idea and giving it the structure, mentorship and market validation it needs to survive beyond the competition. With the right incubation support, several of these handloom-tech solutions have a genuine shot at becoming durable ventures."
 

Path from Ideation to Market Viability

The Ministry of Textiles has committed to providing 1-year incubation support for investor-ready participants, positioning winning and promising solutions for real-world implementation. This initiative aims to create a modern, innovation-led image for brand Handloom while building a visible pathway from ideation to market viability, ensuring that breakthrough innovations translate into tangible benefits for India's weaver communities.
 

The successful conclusion of Handloom Hackathon 2026 marks another pivotal step in the Ministry's efforts to strengthen academia-industry collaboration and build a technology-enabled, sustainable, and globally competitive handloom ecosystem that supports the long-term growth and prosperity of India's weavers.

VinFast has introduced a web-based TCO calculator to help buyers compare the long-term ownership costs of EVs and ICE vehicles based on their driving patterns

For years, the biggest obstacle facing electric vehicles was simple: they cost more to buy.

That equation is becoming less clear-cut. Battery prices have fallen, model choices have expanded, charging networks are growing and, more importantly, the economics of ownership have shifted. Once fuel, maintenance and servicing are factored in, many EVs can cost less to own than comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over several years.

Yet purchase decisions are still largely shaped by ex-showroom prices rather than lifetime ownership costs. As a result, one of the strongest arguments for switching to electric mobility remains underappreciated. The gap is increasingly one of communication.

A quietly changing ownership equation

While EVs still carry a higher upfront purchase price, that premium is increasingly offset by substantially lower energy and maintenance costs, making Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) a more meaningful measure of value than the sticker price alone.

That trend is already evident in more developed markets such as Europe. Battery electric vehicles are now the lowest-cost powertrain on a lifetime TCO basis for medium-sized cars in the European Union and are projected to reach that position across all passenger car segments by 2026. Much of the advantage comes from lower running costs, while maintenance expenses are estimated to be about 30% lower than those of comparable ICE vehicles because electric drivetrains have fewer moving and wear-prone components.⁽¹⁾ The economics become even more compelling for drivers covering higher annual mileages, as operating-cost savings accumulate more quickly.

Early calculations suggest a similar pattern may already be emerging in India. Consider a family MPV driven around 1,500 km a month, or 18,000 km annually. Assuming a comparable petrol model delivers around 19.5 km per litre and petrol costs approximately Rs 100 per litre, fuel expenses would total roughly Rs 2.46 lakh over 32 months. Over the same period, the all-electric seven-seat VinFast VF MPV 7 would consume about 5,580 kWh of electricity. Even at Delhi's highest residential electricity tariff, home charging would cost only about Rs 44,700, roughly 82% less than the petrol bill.

For many buyers, the financial case for switching to an EV may already exist. The challenge is helping them recognise it before making a purchase.

Consumers don't need bigger savings. They need clearer comparisons.

The disconnect between what buyers see on the price tag and what they ultimately pay has been studied before.

A paper published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice examined whether presenting consumers with different forms of cost information influenced their vehicle preferences. The results were revealing: simply telling prospective buyers how much they could save on fuel over five years had little measurable impact on their vehicle rankings.

However, presenting TCO, combining purchase price, fuel and operating costs into a single ownership figure, significantly increased preference for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles among buyers of small and midsize cars.

The researchers argue that consumers often struggle to connect a higher upfront purchase price with lower lifetime operating costs, a phenomenon commonly described as the "energy-efficiency gap." In other words, buyers may understand that EVs consume less energy but still fail to translate those savings into an overall financial advantage.

The implication is that the next competitive advantage for automakers may not come solely from building vehicles with lower running costs, but from making those savings visible in ways that simplify purchase decisions.

Making the economics visible

Some manufacturers have already begun shifting in that direction.

Vietnam-based VinFast, for example, has introduced a web-based Total Cost of Ownership calculator that allows prospective buyers to compare the long-term ownership costs of electric and internal combustion vehicles based on their expected driving patterns. Rather than asking consumers to estimate fuel, servicing and maintenance expenses themselves, the tool automatically turn those variables into a straightforward ownership-cost comparison.

The calculator is supported by a broader ownership proposition aimed at lowering costs throughout the vehicle lifecycle. Buyers receive complimentary charging at V-Green stations through March 2029, three years or 36,000 km of free maintenance, and transition incentives for customers switching from ICE vehicles.

As India's EV market matures, battery range, charging speed and vehicle performance will remain important differentiators. But if ownership economics increasingly favour electric vehicles, helping buyers understand those economics may become just as critical for the industry as a whole.

M. V. Satish, President, Construction Federation of India (CFI) and Advisor to the CMD, L&T Ltd.

“On this Independence Day, as we proudly celebrate 80 years of India’s Independence, let us honour our remarkable journey and reaffirm our collective commitment to building a safer, stronger and more resilient nation. As we move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, let us strive to build not just bigger, but better—with quality, integrity, innovation and excellence. Together, let us contribute to a stronger and more prosperous India. Jai Hind!”

Construction Federation of India (CFI) is a national industry body representing India’s construction and infrastructure sector. CFI works to promote professionalism, safety, quality, innovation, technology and sustainable practices, while contributing to a stronger and more efficient infrastructure ecosystem.

India is building infrastructure at a scale few countries can match. Expressways, metros, railway corridors, airports, ports, tunnels and bridges are transforming connectivity and supporting economic growth. Landmark projects such as the Chenab Rail Bridge, Anji Khad Bridge and Atal Setu reflect the capabilities of Indian engineering.

The industry’s next priority is to make quality, safety and long-term performance consistent across the infrastructure lifecycle.

Better Preparation. Better Outcomes.

Many project challenges begin before construction. Inadequate site investigations, weak DPRs, incomplete utility mapping, unrealistic estimates and insufficient risk assessment can lead to delays, redesigns, disputes and cost escalation.

The industry therefore calls for stronger project preparation and greater emphasis on technical competence. For complex projects, procurement should consider capability, experience and lifecycle value—not simply the lowest initial price. Wider and appropriate use of Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) can help achieve this balance.

Technology Must Strengthen Expertise

BIM, GIS, LiDAR, drones, digital twins and AI can transform project planning, design, monitoring and asset management. But technology cannot replace engineering judgement.

AI cannot correct poor data. A digital model cannot replace site investigation. Technology must strengthen professionals, not substitute for them.

Build for the Lifecycle

Infrastructure must be designed and managed for decades, not merely completed for inauguration.

Greater focus is needed on durability, preventive maintenance, structural health monitoring, climate resilience and timely rehabilitation. The true measure of value is not construction cost alone, but lifetime performance.

Learn from Every Failure

Where negligence or misconduct occurs, accountability is essential. But infrastructure failures should also trigger a wider review of design, investigation, procurement, supervision, quality assurance and maintenance.

Every failure should strengthen the system and prevent recurrence.

Building Better for 2047

India has demonstrated that it can deliver complex infrastructure at remarkable scale and speed. The next challenge is to make that performance consistent, safe, durable and sustainable.

The infrastructure chain must remain strong at every stage:

Better Data → Better DPRs → Better Design → Better Procurement → Better Construction → Better Inspection → Better Maintenance

As India moves towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the goal should not be to choose between speed and quality, but to deliver both. India has shown that it can build big. Now, the industry must work together to build better—and build better, every time.- Construction Federation of India (CFI)

MAHE, Microsoft & Hitachi Systems India leadership at the launch of the AI Lab at TAPMI Manipal

The Microsoft Labs will be established at T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal; T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Bengaluru; Manipal School of Commerce and Economics (MSCE), Manipal; Manipal Institute of Commerce, Finance and Economics (MICFE), Bengaluru; and Manipal Law School (MLS), Bengaluru. The labs will provide students and faculty with access to cutting-edge technologies and hands-on learning experiences, while supporting interdisciplinary research and industry-academia collaboration.

The labs will provide access to AI and other digital technologies, creating dedicated platforms for hands-on learning, experimentation, interdisciplinary research, and innovation. The initiative will also strengthen industry-academia engagement by enabling students and faculty to align academic learning with evolving industry requirements and real-world applications.

The event was attended by Mr Puneet Chandok, President and CEO of Microsoft India and South Asia; Mr Raj Kamal Singhal, CEO of Hitachi Systems India; and Mr Venkat Krishnan, Executive Director at Microsoft Corporation (India) Pvt. Ltd. Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, chaired the event.

The two-day programme included interactions between the leadership of Microsoft and Hitachi Systems India and the MAHE community. The discussions focused on emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital education, research, and the preparation for future skill requirements.

As part of the launch programme, MAHE also hosted a panel discussion titled “Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Reshaping Work, Business, and Society.” The discussion explored AI’s growing impact across workplaces, businesses, education, and society, and highlighted the need for responsible adoption and future-ready capabilities.

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, said, “MAHE has always believed in staying ahead of change rather than reacting to it. The launch of these AI Labs, in partnership with Microsoft and Hitachi, is a continuation of that founding vision, building an institution where innovation and ethics advance together.”

Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The MAHE-Microsoft Partnership marks an important step in our journey towards creating a technology-enabled and future-ready higher education ecosystem. Artificial intelligence and cloud technologies are transforming the way we learn, work, and innovate, and it is essential that our students and faculty engage with these technologies through meaningful, hands-on experiences. The establishment of Microsoft Labs across five of our constituent institutions will strengthen opportunities for experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and innovation.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India and South Asia, said, “India’s young talent has the potential to shape the next wave of AI-led innovation, and partnerships between academia and industry are critical to unlocking that potential. Our collaboration with MAHE will bring students and faculty closer to the technologies, tools, and skills that are shaping the future of work. The Microsoft Labs across five MAHE institutions will provide a platform for hands-on learning, experimentation, and innovation, helping learners move beyond understanding AI to applying it responsibly to solve real-world challenges.”

Mr Raj Kamal Singhal, CEO, Hitachi Systems India, said, “The convergence of technology, education, and industry is essential to building the workforce and solutions needed for a rapidly evolving digital economy. We are pleased to be part of this initiative with MAHE and Microsoft, which brings together academic expertise and industry capabilities to create meaningful opportunities for learning and innovation. As AI and cloud technologies continue to transform businesses, initiatives such as these can help students develop practical skills, embrace continuous learning, and apply technology to address problems.”

“As AI rapidly moves from experimentation to real-world application, building the right combination of technology capabilities, practical skills and industry understanding will be critical. Our association with MAHE and Microsoft provides an opportunity to bring industry perspectives closer to academia and help students understand how emerging technologies can address real business and societal challenges. At Hitachi Systems India, we believe such collaborations can play an important role in developing future-ready talent while fostering responsible and meaningful technology-led innovation.”              

The MAHE-Microsoft Partnership enhances technology-driven education and innovation, creating an environment where academic knowledge, industry insights, and emerging technologies converge to equip learners for the evolving needs of the global economy.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of  Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3^rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

About Microsoft India

Microsoft India enables individuals and organisations to achieve more through innovative cloud, AI, productivity, and digital transformation solutions. The company works closely with educational institutions, enterprises, startups, and government organisations to drive technology-led growth and innovation.

About Hitachi Systems India Pvt. Ltd.

Hitachi Systems India Pvt. Ltd. is a leading IT services and digital transformation company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Systems, Ltd., leveraging deep domain expertise, advanced technology capabilities, and the strength of the Hitachi Group. The company provides end-to-end services spanning cloud, cybersecurity, data centre, and network services, observability services, managed services, and enterprise technology solutions across India.

In a significant step aligned with the Government of Tamil Nadu’s digital transformation agenda, DRA, one of Chennai’s fastest-growing residential developers, has established the required infrastructure at its head office and successfully commenced presence-less property registration and e-sale deed services for its customers from Februrary 18th, 2026. With this, the company is the first developer from CREDAI Tamil Nadu to adopt the state’s digital registration framework, STAR 2.0, marking a shift toward more streamlined, remote property transactions.

DRA Becomes First to Adopt Tamil Nadu’s Presence-Less Property Registration

Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director – DRA, said: “We congratulate the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Registration Department on the launch of STAR, a forward-looking reform that will significantly modernize property transactions and improve convenience for homebuyers.”

As part of this initiative, DRA has established an exclusive, dedicated infrastructure enabling customers to complete presence-less registration seamlessly, in alignment with the framework prescribed by the Sub-Registrar Office. The company has also set up the required digital and compliance systems in accordance with government guidelines, working with authorised partners to ensure a secure and streamlined registration process. This significantly simplifies a traditionally complex step in homebuying by enabling faster, transparent and secure transactions while eliminating physical dependencies and the need to visit Sub-Registrar Offices or rely on fixed time slots and token-based appointments. The process also offers greater flexibility for homebuyers, enabling them to complete registrations seamlessly even on auspicious days and public holidays. DRA has also been actively engaging with the office of the IG Registration as well as TCS to help streamline the process based on actual user experiences.

While the purchase of a home remains a deeply significant and high-value decision often associated with personal involvement and physical documentation, this model introduces a new layer of convenience. Buyers can now complete registrations remotely, with the added flexibility to align the process with their schedules, including weekends, government holidays, and personally important or auspicious days.

The initiative strengthens process standardisation and transparency through digitised workflows that improve documentation accuracy and reduce the scope for discrepancies. It also enables more efficient use of resources by reducing dependency on extensive physical infrastructure and manual coordination. While not a primary purchase driver, this serves as a meaningful value addition that enhances the overall homebuying experience.

About DRA

DRA, with an impressive legacy of over 40 years, has become a trusted name in the real estate industry, delivering world-class projects across Chennai. With more than 12,000 satisfied customers, DRA is synonymous with trust, transparency, and timely delivery. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, DRA goes beyond just building apartments by offering its customers a ‘Home of Pride’ — thoughtfully designed living spaces that cater to evolving lifestyles and embody a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

Driven by a culture of innovation and customer-centricity, DRA has introduced several industry-first initiatives. The company is the first builder in India to conduct 1,357 quality checks before customer handover and the first builder in India to make all its employees co-owners, reinforcing a strong sense of ownership and accountability across the organisation. DRA is also the first builder to introduce a Construction Timeline Meter, enabling customers to track project progress with greater transparency while supporting faster delivery timelines.

Reflecting the trust it has earned among homebuyers, DRA maintains an industry-leading 93% Customer Delight Score. The company's projects have also delivered up to 60% price appreciation within three years of launch, creating long-term value for homeowners and investors alike.

Innovations like the Timeline Meter for project updates and the Customer Delight Meter reflect DRA's unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, while its online customer portal ensures hassle-free access to project details and documentation. Signature developments such as DRA Tuxedo, 90 Degrees, Ascot, Skylantis, Infinique, and iHeart exemplify the company's commitment to blending modernity with value-driven investments.

Recognized with awards such as FICCI's REISA and the Times Business Awards, DRA holds the distinction of being Chennai's first developer with CRISIL's 7-star grading. Beyond real estate, the company actively contributes to society through initiatives such as pond restoration, nurturing young sporting talent, and supporting community development. Upholding its motto, "Timeless Homes, Timely Delivery," DRA continues to inspire pride and trust in every home it creates, turning dreams into lasting legacies.

Agoda Reveals Europe's 2026 Summer Travel Interest to Asia: Searches to India climb

The United Kingdom was the largest European market driving travel interest to India, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Italy, based on accommodation search volumes.

While these markets saw the highest overall travel interest, several emerging European markets recorded notable year-on-year growth in accommodation searches compared to 2025. Slovakia led with a 148 percent increase, followed by Croatia at 128 percent and Ireland at 88 percent.

For Europeans, July and August mark the height of summer and a peak travel period, when schools break and holiday plans come to life. In 2026, Thailand retains its crown as the most-searched Asian destination among European travelers for the second consecutive year, Indonesia shifts to second place, and Japan takes third.

Across the top 20 destinations, India saw the most notable year-on-year growth in European searches at 14percent , followed by South Korea at 13 percent  and Vietnam at 12 percent . These three markets stand out as the region's fastest rising European summer travel interest, pointing to a growing appetite for diverse itineraries beyond Asia's traditional hotspots.

Among destinations within India, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa emerged as the most-searched cities among European travelers for summer 2026. As India's primary international gateways, New Delhi and Mumbai serve as key metropolitan hubs that connect travelers to destinations across the country while also offering rich cultural, culinary, and urban experiences. Complementing these gateway cities, Goa continues to attract European visitors with its beaches, vibrant hospitality scene, and laid-back coastal charm.

New Delhi attracts travelers with its rich history, iconic monuments, and vibrant cultural heritage, while Mumbai continues to draw visitors with its cosmopolitan energy, culinary scene, and entertainment offerings. Goa remains a perennial favourite for its beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and unique mix of Portuguese heritage, nightlife, and coastal experiences, making it one of India's most sought-after leisure destinations.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, Agoda, said, "India's growing popularity among European travelers reflects a broader shift in how international visitors are discovering the country. Beyond iconic landmarks, travelers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, wellness retreats, culinary journeys, and nature-led escapes. The strong year-on-year search growth from both established and emerging European markets highlights India's expanding appeal as a diverse and value-driven destination. At Agoda, we connect travelers to India with great accommodation, flight and activity deals, helping them explore both renowned destinations and lesser-known gems."

In Europe, the top five origin markets of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Spain remain consistent from 2025 to 2026, a sign that Europe’s most enthusiastic Asia travelers are as keen as ever. However, other European markets have also seen growing interest: Türkiye leads with a 39 percent increase in Asian destination searches, followed by Hungary (22 percent) and Czech Republic (16 percent). This signals that interest in Asian travel is spreading further across the European continent, with Central and Eastern European travelers increasingly joining the Asia-bound wave.

As European travelers finalize their summer plans, Agoda continues to offer seamless bookings across more than six million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities worldwide. To find the best deals for summer travel to Asia and beyond, visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app.

About the Data 
All data is based on accommodation search data on Agoda from 1 April to 30 June 2026, for stays between 1 July and 31 August 2026, compared to the same period in 2025.

About Agoda 
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.

Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), employs over 7,500 people globally, and is dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel easy and affordable.

During the visit, Al Shezawi met senior government officials and leaders representing major conglomerates, private enterprises, chambers of commerce, and business and industry associations. The discussions focused on strengthening investment cooperation, connecting Indian businesses with international opportunities, and exploring partnerships across advanced manufacturing, technology, startups, sustainable infrastructure, trade, and the digital economy.

The engagements build on the expanding economic partnership between the UAE and India. The UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed on 18 February 2022 and in force since 1 May 2022, has established a wider framework for trade, investment, and private-sector collaboration.

According to India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, bilateral trade crossed USD 100.06 billion in the 2024–25 financial year, recording growth of 19.6%. In January 2026, the two countries agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade to USD 200 billion by 2032, reflecting the scale of their shared economic ambitions.

AIM Congress provides a global platform through which Indian investors, companies, entrepreneurs, and institutions can engage with policymakers, investment promotion agencies, sovereign and institutional investors, international organisations, and business leaders from across the world. The India roadshow forms part of AIM Global Foundation’s efforts to broaden international participation and facilitate investment partnerships across established and emerging markets.

Taking place from 7 to 9 September 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, AIM Congress is held under the theme, “Reshaping Global Prosperity: Unlocking New Investment Pathways Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Future.” Its agenda is structured around three principal pillars: Global Markets, Future Economies, and NexGen.

For more information and registration, visit www.aimcongress.com.

TimbuckDo Partners with IdeaBaaz Startup Fest to Create Rs. 25 Lakh Worth of Earning Opportunities for 100+ Students
 

The partnership marks a significant milestone in TimbuckDo’s journey with IdeaBaaz. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now becoming a partner supporting one of its next major initiatives, TimbuckDo’s evolution reflects its growing role in India’s startup and youth employment ecosystem.
 

As the Workforce Partner, TimbuckDo will facilitate gig opportunities for 100+ students across various roles during the festival, enabling them to earn while gaining first-hand exposure to the startup ecosystem. Through the partnership, TimbuckDo has created Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for students in just five days, demonstrating the potential of gig work to connect young talent with large-scale business and ecosystem opportunities.
 

Through the initiative, students will work alongside startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and other ecosystem stakeholders, gaining a close view of what it takes to build, operate and execute within a large-scale startup environment. The experience will help students develop practical skills while creating a bridge between education and the professional world.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership extends its larger mission to champion student gig work and bring students into the mainstream economy through meaningful real-world opportunities. By enabling students to actively contribute to startup events and ecosystem initiatives, TimbuckDo aims to create a pathway where young talent can learn, earn, and participate in the growth of businesses and entrepreneurial communities.
 

The association also highlights the evolution of TimbuckDo’s relationship with IdeaBaaz. Having previously appeared on IdeaBaaz as a startup seeking funding, TimbuckDo is now contributing to the ecosystem as a partner creating opportunities for the next generation of talent through the same platform that was once part of its own entrepreneurial journey.
 

Commenting on the partnership, Mythri Kumar, Co-founder and CEO, TimbuckDo, said, “IdeaBaaz has been an important part of TimbuckDo’s journey. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now partnering on one of its next big initiatives is a very meaningful milestone for us. Through the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest, we are creating Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for more than 100 students in just five days, allowing them to earn, work, and experience the startup ecosystem from the inside. We believe student gig work can play a powerful role in bringing young talent into the mainstream economy and entrepreneurship ecosystem. When students get the opportunity to work alongside startups and entrepreneurs, they get a close view of what it really takes to build and grow a business. This partnership is about creating meaningful value for students by giving them the opportunity to earn, gain practical experience, build confidence and understand the startup ecosystem from within. We see this as a strong reflection of what TimbuckDo stands for creating opportunities that enable students to learn, earn and grow. We see this as a great value proposition for student onboarding in September.”
 

Jeet Wagh & Mudit Kumar, Co-founders, IdeaBaaz, said, “Seeing TimbuckDo, one of the startups from Season 1, now come on board as the Workforce Partner for the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest is a full-circle moment for us. It reflects what we have always believed at IdeaBaaz our relationship with founders should not end when the show does. As we take IdeaBaaz from the screen to a live startup ecosystem in Delhi, it is exciting to have founders from our first season become partners in building what comes next. This partnership with TimbuckDo echoes our commitment to staying invested in the startup ecosystem and creating opportunities for founders beyond the show.”
 

The partnership makes students active participants in the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest rather than passive attendees. By contributing to the execution of the festival, students will gain exposure to the people, processes, and opportunities that shape the startup ecosystem.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership represents a broader vision for how student gig work can become an entry point into the professional world helping students build practical experience, understand entrepreneurship up close and develop the skills and networks needed to navigate the world of work.
 

The partnership brings together students, startups, entrepreneurs and the wider startup ecosystem, creating a model where young talent can earn, learn and contribute while businesses and ecosystem platforms gain access to a new generation of talent.
 

About TimbuckDo
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Bengaluru, TimbuckDo Innovations Pvt Ltd is a student gig and growth platform that empowers India's youth to earn, learn, and grow. Co-founded by Mythri Kumar and Apoorv Sharma Prasad, the company connects students with verified part-time gigs, internships, and project-based opportunities while also offering financial literacy tools, lifestyle benefits, and upskilling resources. TimbuckDo's mission is to bridge the gap between education and employability by creating a trusted ecosystem where students gain practical exposure, financial independence, and career readiness during their academic journey.

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani and Mr. Suhail Puri during the signing ceremony for the collaboration between Hiranandani Communities and The Fern Hotels & Resorts, a Series by Marriott, in Mumbai
 

The collaboration reflects a broader shift already underway in Indian real estate, one where value is increasingly defined not by space alone, but by the standard of living, service, and experience a home delivers. For Alibaug, long known as a weekend escape from Mumbai, the partnership signals a deliberate reimagining: from a seasonal getaway to a year-round lifestyle destination, backed by international hospitality standards and evolving connectivity and infrastructure.
 

For homeowners, the offering goes beyond traditional real estate ownership. Residences are professionally managed under the Fern-Marriott partnership on a "lock-and-leave" model, an asset-light approach in which units can be rented out through the management company when not in personal use, subject to the applicable management and operating terms.
 

Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman, Hiranandani Communities, said, “India's homebuyer has evolved. They are no longer just purchasing four walls, they are investing in a way of living, a standard of service, and a lifestyle experience. This collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts and Marriott brings exactly that to Alibaug, globally benchmarked hospitality, integrated seamlessly into a home you own. We've always believed real estate should serve the life being lived within it, not just the structure itself. Alibaug is already an established tourism and hospitality destination; with improving connectivity and infrastructure, it is now evolving into a year-round lifestyle and real estate destination, creating a natural bridge between leisure, hospitality and long-term living. This partnership is our commitment to being part of that evolution – for our residents, for guests, and for the local community that will grow alongside it.”
 

Mr. Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, also joined the occasion virtually, marking Marriott International’s participation in the collaboration.
 

Designed as a hospitality-led residential ecosystem, the offering at Hiranandani Sands is built to reduce the traditional dependence on weekend tourism in Alibaug, with the potential to attract long-stay guests, digital nomads and international travellers throughout the year. This shift aims to support more consistent hospitality-led economic activity in the region, rather than the seasonal peaks and troughs that have historically characterised coastal tourism markets in Maharashtra.
 

Beyond individual ownership, the development is designed with a broader community and sustainability mandate — supporting local artisans and craftsmanship, showcasing coastal cuisine and cultural traditions, and encouraging engagement with nearby heritage sites and natural reserves. Sustainability remains integral to the development philosophy, with initiatives focused on green-certified design, renewable energy adoption, water conservation, biodiversity preservation and responsible coastal development.
 

With this collaboration, Hiranandani Communities reinforces a positioning it has held for decades — not merely as a real estate developer, but as an enabler of how India lives, experiences and engages with places. The partnership sets a precedent for integrating global hospitality standards into Indian townships without compromising community impact or environmental responsibility.
 

About Hiranandani Communities

It is one of India's most respected real estate development companies, known for pioneering integrated township developments across residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, education and healthcare. With over four decades of experience, the company has developed more than 34 million sq. ft. of residential space and 14.74 million sq. ft. of commercial space, with landmark developments in Powai (Mumbai), Thane, Panvel, and Chennai. The Group has consistently set benchmarks in urban planning, sustainable design and community-centric development for over four decades.
 

About Hiranandani Sands, Alibaug

Spread across 225 acres at Nagaon, Alibaug, Hiranandani Sands is a hospitality-centric coastal township initiative by Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, offering an integrated ecosystem of premium residences, branded hospitality and lifestyle amenities designed for coastal living. Envisioned as a year-round coastal lifestyle destination, Hiranandani Sands integrates residential living, hospitality, wellness, leisure and community experiences within a thoughtfully planned ecosystem.

India Flows Free

YouTube Link:  www.youtu.be/SNGH7rDqV3I

The idea looks at one of India’s most essential yet largely unseen infrastructures in an entirely new way. Pipes run beneath our feet, through our homes, across cities and through the countryside, silently carrying water and sustaining life. They are, in many ways, the Hidden Rivers of the Modern Age. For one day, these hidden rivers found a voice.

The transformation of Thomson PVC pipes into musical instruments was undertaken by Alpha Flutes, traditional flute makers, who experimented with different pipe diameters, lengths and tonal configurations to create specially crafted PVC flutes. The resulting instruments were brought to life by renowned flute artist Vidhu Krishna, who performed the rendition on the specially created flutes, demonstrating how an everyday industrial material could be transformed into an instrument capable of carrying music.

The performance was filmed against the historic Colonial Pier at Alleppey, creating a striking meeting of India’s past, present and future. A structure that once witnessed the movement of goods, people and commerce became the backdrop for a Song of Freedom, this time carried through the sound of pipes.

At the heart of India Flows Free is a simple idea: sometimes, all it takes to discover a new possibility is to look at something familiar differently. A water pipe can carry water. But in the hands of imagination, it can carry music too. What began as a piece of infrastructure became an instrument; what usually remains unseen became visible; and what silently carries water found a way to carry the nation’s emotion. From pipes to flutes. From hidden rivers to a song. From infrastructure to inspiration.

With India Flows Free, Thomson Pipes celebrates Independence Day by giving a voice to the hidden rivers that keep India flowing. The idea was conceived and executed by Jimmy & Jacana, the boutique brand makery, with communication and amplification supported by Trompet Media. The project brings together the worlds of infrastructure, craftsmanship, music and creative imagination in a distinctive tribute to the nation.

Step into a world of timeless elegance at Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel, where luxurious interiors, refined details and unforgettable experiences come together

The property's identity carries through its physical details: a cherry blossom installation in the lobby, brass orchids through the interiors and hand-carved sandstone florals recurring at unexpected turns, alongside a culinary programme and evening rituals that draw guests into the everyday rhythm of Goa. Its evenings are anchored by Evenings at Renaissance, a signature programme built around music, cocktails and conversation.

Surrounded by lush greenery, Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel offers a serene retreat where contemporary luxury meets nature, creating the perfect escape from the city

Janhvi brought a distinctly childlike curiosity to her stay, drawn in by the hotel's architecture and interiors at every turn, taking genuine interest in the design details across the property. Dinner at Casa Limone, the hotel's Italian coastal restaurant, became a highlight of her time there and by evening, she was part of Evenings at Renaissance.

The campaign featuring Janhvi will present Renaissance Goa as a hotel best understood through its Stories of Discovery via its architecture, its design and its beverage & food experiences.

“At Renaissance Goa, we believe the most memorable stays are those that spark discovery. From the outset, our vision was to create a place where every corner tells a story and every experience invites exploration. Janhvi embodied that spirit with genuine curiosity, making this collaboration a natural celebration of everything Renaissance stands for,” said, Roopa Singh, General Manager, Renaissance Goa

"The property feels both playful and inviting, with every corner offering something unexpected. From the flowers and lemon-inspired details to the design of Casa Limone, there is a warmth and personality that runs throughout the experience,” said Janhvi Kapoor. “By evening, the atmosphere shifts completely, becoming vibrant, lively and incredibly engaging.”

More than a celebrity association, the collaboration marks the next chapter for Renaissance Goa as it establishes itself among Goa's leading design forward, lifestyle hospitality destinations, one guests are invited to discover for themselves.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

About Renaissance Goa Hotel

Nestled in the vibrant heart of North Goa, Renaissance Goa Hotel invites modern travelers to discover the destination beyond the expected. Inspired by the Renaissance Hotels brand philosophy of spontaneous discovery, this 133-room lifestyle hotel with 8000 sq. ft (approx.) adaptable event spaces, connects travellers to the spirit of the neighbourhood through its theatrical design, entertaining evening bar rituals, and engaging Navigators, extending an open invitation to experience the unexpected both inside and out of the hotel. Located close to the region's most iconic beaches, nightlife, and cultural landmarks, the hotel offers thoughtfully curated experiences through its Navigator program, signature Evenings at Renaissance rituals, and distinctive dining destinations including The Bloom Kitchen, Casa Limone, Aerio, and R Lounge. Complemented by versatile event spaces, a rooftop infinity pool, wellness facilities, and warm, intuitive hospitality, Renaissance Goa Hotel is crafted for curious travelers seeking meaningful connections and unforgettable stories.

For more information, please visit www.renaissancegoa.com and stay connected  on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Renaissance Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com

India's Food & Beverage Growth Story Attracts Strong Global Participation as Anuga Select India 2026 Strengthens International Trade Partnerships
 

A key highlight of the 2026 edition is the European Union (EU) participating as the Official Country Partner, bringing Europe’s diverse agri-food ecosystem to India and creating opportunities for greater market access, sourcing and business collaboration between European suppliers and the Indian food and beverage industry.
 

Europe Takes Centre Stage as Official Partner Region

The EU Pavilion will showcase the breadth of European agri-food excellence, highlighting the quality, authenticity, food safety, traceability, sustainability and innovation associated with European food systems.
 

The pavilion will present a diverse range of food categories, including dairy and cheese, bakery and confectionery ingredients, meat and processed meat products, cereals and grain-based products, specialty agricultural products, premium food ingredients, sustainable food solutions and authentic regional European foods.
 

Through product showcases, tastings and knowledge-sharing opportunities, the EU presence will give Indian buyers, importers, distributors, retailers and HoReCa professionals an opportunity to discover European products, understand their provenance and explore new sourcing possibilities.
 

The participation of the European Union further strengthens Anuga Select India’s role as a platform connecting international food suppliers with India’s expanding food and beverage market, while providing businesses with opportunities to build long-term commercial relationships.
 

A Truly International Food & Beverage Showcase

Alongside the EU, 12+ countries will participate through international country pavilions and exhibitors, bringing a wide spectrum of global food products, ingredients, innovations and sourcing opportunities to Mumbai.
 

Participating countries include Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the Philippines, South Korea, China, Türkiye, Spain, Indonesia, Brazil, Italy, Germany and Georgia.
 

From Asian food innovation and tropical and processed food products to European culinary heritage, Middle Eastern food and agricultural initiatives, and the diverse agricultural strengths of Latin America, the international pavilions will give Indian buyers direct access to suppliers and products from some of the world's key food-producing and exporting markets.
 

The international presence also reflects the growing demand for global food products, premium ingredients, international cuisines and new sourcing opportunities across India's retail, food service, hospitality and food manufacturing sectors.
 

Anuga Select India 2026: Connecting Global Suppliers with India

With 400+ exhibitors, representation from 45+ countries and more than 13,500 sqm of exhibition space, Anuga Select India 2026 will bring together the key segments of the food and beverage value chain at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai.
 

The exhibition is designed to connect importers and exporters, distributors and wholesalers, retail chains and modern trade buyers, HoReCa professionals, food manufacturers, food service operators, industry associations, policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs.
 

Beyond product discovery and international sourcing, Anuga Select India will provide a platform to identify emerging food trends, discover innovative products and ingredients, explore new markets and develop strategic business partnerships.
 

Dedicated industry features, curated networking opportunities and buyer-focused initiatives will further support meaningful connections between exhibitors and decision-makers across the food and beverage ecosystem.
 

A Growing Global Platform for Food Trade

The increasing international participation at Anuga Select India 2026 reflects the growing opportunities within India's food and beverage market and the importance of creating platforms that connect domestic demand with global supply.
 

With the European Union as Official Partner Region and international participation spanning Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, the 2026 edition will offer buyers a concentrated view of global food markets while giving international suppliers access to one of the world's most dynamic and diverse food economies.
 

Anuga Select India 2026 will take place from 29 September to 1 October 2026 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, bringing the international food and beverage community together to discover products, build partnerships and shape the future of food trade.
 

To be part of this leading food and beverage industry gathering, register as a visitor - register.anuga-india.com/?utm_source=DigitalPR.
 

Explore more about Anuga Select India 2026, including its exhibitors, features and programme - anuga-india.com.
 

Anuga Select India 2026

29 September – 1 October 2026

Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai

Axis Max Life Recognised for Workplace Inclusion and Safety with POSH Pioneer Award 2026

The conclave brought together over 250 delegates from government, judiciary, industry, human resources, law, academia and the wider POSH ecosystem for a day of insightful dialogue, knowledge sharing and recognition of organisations championing workplace safety and inclusion.

The POSH Pioneer Award honours organisations that have introduced innovative and impactful practices that strengthen workplace dignity, employee trust and POSH implementation. organisations that have moved beyond compliance to create workplaces where respect, inclusion and accountability are embedded into everyday culture inspiring others across India to follow. This recognition has been conferred after a comprehensive evaluation process by an independent Jury against pre-defined assessment criteria, considering the impact, innovation, sustainability, and contribution made towards creating safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. It recognises an organisation's commitment to advancing the principles and spirit of the POSH Act and moving beyond compliance towards building a culture of dignity and respect.

Priyanka Mitra, Head Distribution HR, Diversity & Inclusion Axis Max Life Insurance, said, "At Axis Max Life, fostering a workplace built on trust, respect and inclusion is fundamental to who we are as an organisation. Receiving the POSH Pioneer Award is a meaningful recognition of our continued commitment to creating a safe and equitable environment where every employee feels valued, heard and empowered to thrive. We believe that cultivating a culture of dignity and accountability goes beyond compliance, it requires sustained awareness, strong leadership commitment and collective responsibility. We will continue to strengthen our people practices and nurture a workplace where everyone can contribute with confidence and authenticity."

The conclave marked several significant milestones in advancing workplace safety and awareness across the country. The event commenced with an inaugural keynote address by Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, Secretary, Department of Women & Child Development, Government of NCT of Delhi.

The event culminated with the presentation of the National POSH Excellence Awards, recognising organisations and leaders that have set benchmarks in fostering respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplaces. The recognition of Axis Max Life as a POSH Pioneer Award recipient reflects the Company's continued focus on strengthening workplace policies, promoting awareness, and cultivating a culture where every employee is empowered to thrive with dignity, trust, and confidence.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (the “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a subsidiary of Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) with Axis Bank Limited and its affiliates also being shareholders of the Company. Axis Max Life offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party partners. The Company has built its operations on a need-based sales process, a customer centric engagement model and trained human capital. As per audited financials for FY2025-26, Axis Max Life recorded a gross written premium of INR 38,877 crore. 

IRDAI Registration. No – 104 
Company Identification Number - U74899HR2000PLC143012

As India commemorates its landmark 80th Independence Day, EuroKids Preschool, India's leading preschool, brought together 1,25,000+ young learners with 15,000+ educators across 2,000+ centres in 550+ cities for one of the country's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations. Through a specially curated experiential learning program, children explored the values of unity, diversity, pride and responsible citizenship in ways that were engaging, age-appropriate and deeply meaningful.

Proudly dressed in their little patriotic spirit, EuroKids children celebrated Independence Day with pride and unity

For EuroKids, the milestone carried a message closer to home. Just as India's 80-year journey has been built one formative step at a time, a child's own journey towards independence, confidence and self-reliance begins far earlier than most parents realise. Early childhood research suggests that nearly 90% of a child's brain development takes place between the ages of two and six, making these years the most receptive window for building language, social skills, emotional regulation and a sense of identity. It is a belief central to EuroKids' philosophy: that starting structured, play-based learning at age 2, rather than waiting for formal schooling to begin, gives children the strongest foundation to grow into confident, independent individuals.

At a time when educators and parents alike are placing greater emphasis on nurturing character alongside academics, EuroKids transformed the national celebration into an immersive learning experience where children didn't just celebrate Independence Day, they experienced its values through storytelling, movement, collaborative play and hands-on exploration. Designed as part of the brand's month-long Awesome August initiative, the celebrations reflected the evolving role of early childhood education in helping children build empathy, confidence, respect, and a sense of belonging from an early age.

Across EuroKids centres, children participated in a vibrant Tricolour Kite Festival, sending colourful kites carrying messages of hope, unity and freedom into the skies. Younger learners, some as young as two, discovered the significance of the national flag through interactive tricolour sensory play, while a specially designed patriotic obstacle course featuring saffron hoops, a green tunnel and an Ashoka Chakra spin, combined physical activity with purposeful learning, encouraging teamwork, resilience and confidence, even in the very youngest of EuroKids' toddlers.

The celebrations also featured a Mini Patriotic Parade, where children proudly marched with the national flag, and the 'Unity in Diversity' Ramp Walk, where they represented different Indian states in traditional attire, celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage. Through these collaborative experiences, children developed a deeper appreciation of India's diversity while understanding that unity remains one of the nation's greatest strengths.

KVS Seshasai, CEO, Pre-K Division, Lighthouse Learning (EuroKids), said, “As India celebrates 80 years of Independence, we have a unique opportunity to help the next generation understand the values that have shaped our nation. Children begin developing their understanding of identity, empathy and belonging as early as the age of two, making these formative years the ideal time to introduce them to the importance of unity, respect and responsible citizenship. At EuroKids, we believe these values, and the quiet confidence to think and act independently, are best nurtured not through instruction alone, but through joyful, immersive experiences that encourage children to observe, participate, question and connect with the world around them, right from their very first years at preschool.”

The celebrations formed part of Awesome August, EuroKids' flagship month-long learning initiative that brings together key cultural, environmental and social occasions, including Friendship Day, Independence Day, Sustainability Week and Raksha Bandhan, to help children develop life skills through meaningful experiences. By integrating these celebrations into everyday learning, EuroKids enables children to build empathy, collaboration, curiosity and social awareness while creating lasting memories with their peers, teachers and families.

Rooted in Heureka – The Visible Thinking Curriculum, inspired by Harvard University's Project Zero and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Independence Day celebrations reflected EuroKids' commitment to experiential learning that nurtures cognitive, emotional and social development from the toddler years onward. Rather than viewing national festivals as standalone events, the curriculum transforms them into opportunities for children, from age 2, to think critically, express themselves confidently and develop a lifelong appreciation for India's culture, diversity and shared values.

As the nation celebrated 80 years of Independence, EuroKids reaffirmed its commitment to giving children the Right Start to their own journey of independence, one that begins as early as age 2 and prepares them not only for school, but for life. By bringing together children and their families in one of India's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations, the brand continues to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire young learners to grow into confident, compassionate and responsible citizens of tomorrow.

To mark this historic milestone, EuroKids is offering parents a festive Independence Day fee benefit on new enrolments for toddlers as young as two years old, giving them the Right Start to their learning journey. Visit your nearest EuroKids centre to know more.

About EuroKids Preschool

EuroKids, India's Leading Preschool Brand, has revolutionised early childhood education for over 25 years across 2,000+ preschools in 550 cities and three countries. With the launch of its latest 8th curriculum, ‘Heureka’, EuroKids introduces the Visible Thinking Curriculum, based on Harvard University’s Project Zero and aligned with NEP 2020. Heureka empowers children with critical and creative thinking skills through 20 structured Thinking Routines, nurturing holistic growth across Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, and Spiritual dimensions. Supported by the Buddy’s World app, which supports balanced cognitive development, EuroKids remains at the forefront of early childhood education, helping children develop essential life skills from as early as age 2. Its successful franchise model also enables aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive in the education sector, expanding access to quality education.

The Group

Lighthouse Learning Group, formerly known as EuroKids International, is India's leading Early Childhood & K-12 Education group, backed by global investment firm KKR. Driven by its purpose to unlock human potential by igniting the love for learning through its institutions, which include leading brands like EuroKids Preschool, Kangaroo Kids Preschool, EuroSchool, Billabong High International, Centre Point Group of Schools, Heritage International Xperiential School, Heritage Xperiential Learning School and Finland International School Maldives. Nurturing over 200,000 students every day, Lighthouse Learning emphasises a 'Child First' philosophy, innovative pedagogy, and child safety. With 2,000 Preschools and 60 K-12 Schools, it empowers 1,850 women entrepreneurs and employs a direct and indirect workforce of over 25,000 people.

Preventive Health Platform & Precision Health OS

Project Serotonin's Preventive Health Platform offers modular, ready-to-deploy infrastructure to operationalize preventive care at scale. It creates a connective layer that brings diagnostics, genomics, blood biomarkers, wearable data, clinical records, and practitioner insight into one model of care. It helps healthcare institutions move beyond isolated interventions toward a coordinated approach that supports individuals before disease progresses rather than after its onset.

The Platform has been designed to complement existing healthcare infrastructure, not compete with it. Hospitals and clinics continue to practice medicine through their established clinical pathways, while Project Serotonin adds a structured prevention layer supporting risk stratification, protocol design, patient engagement, monitoring, and behavior change, without asking clinicians to change how they practice or hospitals to trade treatment revenue for prevention.

The need for change has become increasingly evident. According to the World Health Organization, non-communicable diseases account for nearly 75 percent of all deaths globally. In India, where non-communicable diseases often present three to ten years earlier than in developed nations and multimorbidity has increased dramatically over the past three decades, a recent EY–FICCI assessment concluded that appropriate preventive interventions could reduce hospitalizations by 20 to 30 percent.

Advances in genomics, blood biomarkers, imaging, wearable technologies, and artificial intelligence have significantly expanded the volume and diversity of health information available to clinicians. Yet most healthcare institutions continue to use these datasets in isolation, limiting their ability to build a longitudinal understanding of an individual's health and leaving preventive care fragmented and difficult to scale.

At the core of the Platform is Project Serotonin's proprietary Precision Health OS, an orchestration engine that evaluates each individual's genetic predispositions, biomarker trajectories, wearable trends, lifestyle patterns, pharmacogenetic considerations, and clinical history as one unified health profile. The Precision Health OS incorporates safeguards for contraindications, interactions, and escalation pathways, alongside anonymization, encryption, and role-based access controls.

This intelligence is translated into the SRTN Precision Daily Operating System (SRTN-pDOS), an individualized care framework that converts complex biological information into structured, practitioner-guided protocols across two care formats: foundational preventive care and therapy-adjunct protocols addressing specific health areas such as gut and cardiovascular health.

These SRTN precision protocols draw on an evidence base of more than 44,000 stratified clinical studies and have been refined through real-world pilots. They span nutrition, supplementation, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and other modifiable health behaviors. Recommendations are delivered through the SRTN App and supported by care concierge teams and health coaches who help individuals sustain adherence over time. WHO evidence has documented adherence rates as low as 28 percent for some regular preventive therapies in developed countries, underscoring the challenge of sustaining long-term engagement. Project Serotonin's engagement architecture is designed to address this gap.

"We are at an inflection point in human health. Project Serotonin is built for the Medicine 4.0 era, which is defined not by how much data we collect, but by how intelligently we connect it," said Dr Ashwat Visvanathan (PhD), Head - Partnerships and User Outcomes, Project Serotonin. "Healthcare has invested heavily in digitizing records and expanding diagnostics. The next frontier is enabling a continuous understanding of every individual. We built Project Serotonin to help healthcare providers move from episodic treatment to plug-and-play precision prevention, without disrupting the systems and clinical expertise they already have."

The Platform connects twelve integrated systems that have traditionally functioned in isolation, from diagnostics, genomics, and wearable intelligence to a clinician console, Rx Intelligence screened against more than 2,600 drugs, patient engagement, fulfillment, adherence coaching, and operational management. Institutions can deploy the complete Platform or adopt modular capabilities, determining their own pace and scope of adoption.

About Project Serotonin

Project Serotonin is a preventive health technology company based in San Francisco and Bengaluru, India, with the conviction that peak health can be achieved through precision science and technology. Built over ten years of R&D, the company offers a ready-to-deploy, tenth-generation Preventive Health Platform with a proprietary Precision Health OS, powered by deep-learning algorithms that integrate genetics, blood biomarkers, nutrition, lifestyle, wearable data, and behavioral metrics.

The company conducts extensive real-world pilots for every protocol before release and continuously optimizes outcomes for individual users. Its multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers has invested more than 300,000 hours in research and development spanning micronutrient quantification, formulations, dosages, frequency, combinations, exercise, sleep, fasting, diet, and lifestyle protocols.Project Serotonin's mission is to make measurable, personalized preventive health accessible to millions through trusted health and wellness partners.

Aura Vantaje to redefine what commercial investment looks like on Sohna Road

Located in Sector 48, Aura Vantaje is a two-acre luxury commercial development that combines organised retail and office spaces within a single address. Planned with retail across the ground floor to the fourth floor and office spaces from the fifth to the eleventh floor, the project has been designed around the way commercial developments are increasingly expected to function. The investment in the project's construction stands at around Rs. 125 crores, while the estimated topline is pegged at Rs. 527 crores. Commercial units are priced from Rs. 50,00,000 onwards.

The timing is difficult to ignore. Commercial real estate in Gurugram has continued to remain resilient, supported by sustained office leasing, a growing presence of Global Capability Centres and a mature residential base that drives demand for organised retail. According to Colliers, India's Grade A office leasing reached a record 71.5 million sq. ft. in 2025, with Delhi NCR remaining one of the country's most active office markets. That demand has also changed the way commercial projects are planned. Location still matters, but it is no longer the only consideration.

Retailers today look beyond visibility alone. They evaluate the strength of the surrounding catchment, customer demographics and the ability of a project to sustain footfall throughout the day. They want to know what the surrounding catchment looks like, how people move through the building, whether offices are part of the development and if the project can remain active beyond shopping hours. Office occupiers ask similar questions. They look for workplaces that offer cafes, convenience retail, banking facilities and everyday services without employees having to step out every time they need something. Those conversations have become increasingly common over the past few years.

Aura Vantaje appears to respond to those expectations through its planning. Rather than treating retail and offices as two independent products, the project attempts to let one support the other. Retail occupies the lower floors where visibility and customer movement matter the most. The office component rises above, creating a steady weekday population that can support businesses operating within the development. It is a straightforward planning approach, but one that helps create a more balanced commercial environment by bringing together steady office demand and organised retail.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder & Managing Director, Aura World, said, “Sohna Road has evolved into one of Gurugram’s most established commercial corridors, and the availability of sizeable land parcels for organised developments is now extremely limited. With Aura Vantaje, our focus is on creating a future-ready commercial address that integrates retail and office spaces within a strong residential and corporate catchment. We believe projects in mature, supply-constrained micro-markets are increasingly being evaluated for their long-term relevance, occupier demand and ability to remain active throughout the day, and Aura Vantaje has been planned with exactly those priorities in mind.”

Its location strengthens that proposition further. Sector 48 enjoys seamless connectivity to Golf Course Extension Road, Southern Peripheral Road and NH-48, allowing businesses to draw customers, employees and visitors from multiple parts of Gurugram. As commercial activity continues to spread across the city, this accessibility has become an increasingly important competitive advantage.

Scarcity is now becoming part of the Sohna Road story as well. Unlike a decade ago, when new commercial projects were announced with regularity, opportunities to launch developments of meaningful scale have become increasingly limited because much of the corridor has already been developed. That changes the conversation for both occupiers and investors. The emphasis gradually shifts from simply acquiring commercial space to choosing locations that are likely to remain relevant over the long term. The existing retail developments along Sohna Road are relatively older and no longer fully align with the evolving expectations of today's consumers. While the corridor continues to attract strong footfall, Aura Vantaje introduces a contemporary retail destination that reflects changing consumer preferences and retail formats.

Sohna Road is no longer defining itself through new infrastructure or fresh land releases. It is beginning to be defined by the quality of developments that still find a place here. Aura Vantaje enters the market at a point when that distinction is becoming increasingly important.

BBDU Strengthens Its Position as Lucknow’s Leading Placement Destination with Offers from Infosys and Wipro

In the latest placement drive, Wipro selected BBDU students for the role of Customer Service Representative, Human Resource Outsourcing. Meanwhile, students secured placements with Infosys at packages of Rs. 9.50 lakh per annum and Rs. 6.25 lakh per annum.
 

The students selected at Rs. 9.50 lakh per annum have been offered the role of Specialist Programmer L1 (Trainee), while those receiving Rs. 6.25 lakh per annum have been selected as Digital Specialist Engineer (Trainee). These placements reflect the University’s continued focus on equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge, technical expertise and the professional competencies required to succeed in a rapidly evolving employment landscape.
 

Commenting on the placements, Viraj Sagar Das, Pro-Chancellor, Babu Banarasi Das University, said, “At BBDU, our focus has always been to ensure that education translates into meaningful career opportunities. These placements with leading organizations such as Infosys and Wipro reflect the strength of our academic ecosystem, industry engagement and continued efforts to prepare students for the future of work. We are proud to see our students take confident steps towards successful professional careers and contribute to the growing talent ecosystem of Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh.”
 

BBDU’s strong placement ecosystem is supported by its industry-aligned curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, advanced academic infrastructure, career mentoring and structured corporate engagement. Through its robust Corporate Connect Programme, the University enables students to engage with industry experts, participate in internships and live projects, and gain exposure to evolving workplace expectations.
 

With a legacy of nearly three decades in education, BBDU continues to build a strong bridge between academia and industry. The University’s multidisciplinary approach, emphasis on emerging technologies, innovation-led learning, and extensive corporate engagement enable students to develop both domain expertise and workplace readiness.
 

To date, more than 1,200 companies have recruited from BBDU, resulting in over 12,500 placement offers, with the highest package reaching Rs. 48 lakh per annum. The latest placements further reinforce BBDU’s commitment to creating strong career pathways for its students and strengthening Lucknow’s position as a growing hub for skilled, future-ready talent.

About Babu Banarasi Das University (BBDU), Lucknow
Babu Banarasi Das (BBD) University, Lucknow, is a premier multidisciplinary institution committed to academic excellence, innovation and holistic education. Since its establishment in 2010, the University has built a strong reputation for delivering quality education across diverse disciplines, including engineering, management, law, pharmacy, architecture, dental sciences, applied sciences, humanities and social sciences. By integrating academic rigour with research, industry collaboration and experiential learning, BBD University equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to excel in an evolving global environment. Through its emphasis on scholarship, leadership and community engagement, the University continues to prepare graduates who contribute meaningfully to society and the nation's progress.

Built for demanding environments, Netrack India's FMOD Series Electrical Enclosures offer reliable weather protection, durability, and consistent outdoor performance

The move adds depth to Netrack's already broad product catalogue and further establishes the company's reputation as one of the more credible Outdoor Cabinets Manufacturers operating in India today. The timing is practical rather than coincidental. Telecom rollouts, edge nodes, utility control panels, and outdoor IT installations have all picked up pace across the country, and the requirement for weatherproof enclosures that can handle Indian field conditions — dust, rain, humidity, temperature swings — has grown alongside them.

What the FMOD Series Actually Does

The enclosures are made from galvanized steel, fully welded rather than bolted together, which matters when the cabinet is going to sit outdoors for years. The finish is a dual-coat powder coating over seven-tank pretreatment process meeting ASTM standards — primer first, then pure polyester powder on top. That's what allows the units to hold up against corrosion and surface degradation over time.

Protection ratings are IP56 with fan cooling installed, and IP66 without fans. For most outdoor deployments, that covers the range of what's needed. Fan mounting can go on the sides or at the top through a canopy and filter arrangement, which keeps the IP56 rating intact while allowing active thermal management.

The range runs from 6RU to 27RU, with 600mm and 800mm width options and depths between 600mm and 800mm. Front and rear doors come with a 3-point lock and key. There's also a toughened glass front door option for applications where visibility into the cabinet matters. All units are designed for floor mounting on a plinth, and the static load capacity is 750 kg uniformly distributed — sufficient for most field equipment loads.

The 19" mounting angles follow DIN 41494 and IEC 60529 equivalent standards, so compatibility with standard rack-mount equipment is not something operators need second-guess.

Manufacturing and Quality

Every FMOD unit comes out of a manufacturing setup certified under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, and ISO 45001. That's quality management, environmental management, information security, and occupational health — all covered. For buyers who need to clear procurement requirements or satisfy audit checklists, the certifications are already in place.

Netrack's position as an established name among Outdoor Cabinets Manufacturers in India is partly a product of this manufacturing discipline. The company has been supplying racks and enclosures to data centers, enterprises, and telecom operators long enough that the product development process has become genuinely iterative — field feedback goes back into design.

Accessories and Configuration Support

The FMOD Series works with a full set of accessories: fixed shelves, cantilever shelves, sliding shelves, keyboard shelves, angle pairs, PDUs, cable organizers, fan modules, rack ground kits, and plinths. Operators can spec out a complete, ready-to-deploy outdoor cabinet from a single source rather than piecing together components from multiple vendors.

About Netrack India

Netrack India is a Legrand Group company and one of India's established manufacturers of server racks, network cabinets, and physical IT infrastructure. The company serves data center, enterprise, telecom, and edge computing customers across India and international markets, backed by multi-standard ISO certification and an extensive distribution network.

Media Contact: Netrack India (Legrand Group) www.netrackindia.com.

M3M Foundation planting over 1 lakh trees this monsoon taking forward ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’

The Foundation aims to plant 1 lakh+ trees, engaging 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and Tauru Block with local communities, including locations in and around the Aravalli landscape.

The initiative will begin across Ghata, Kadarpur, Ullawas, Ramgarh, Bahrampur and Bailyawas, bringing local communities together around a shared vision for greener and more sustainable villages. Local leaders Govardhan from Ghata, Satbir from Ullawas, Sanjeet from Kadarpur and Giriraj from Bahrampur are supporting the initiative and helping mobilise residents to participate in the plantation and take collective responsibility for the trees. Their involvement reflects Sankalp’s belief that lasting environmental change is strongest when it is led and nurtured at the community level.

The initiative is designed to make the most of the monsoon season while ensuring that plantation translates into sustained environmental action. Communities and Panchayats will be mobilised not only to participate in planting but also to take responsibility for the subsequent care, protection and nurturing of the trees, creating a stronger foundation for their long-term survival.

The campaign builds on M3M Foundation’s experience of connecting environmental conservation with an emotional sense of responsibility. Inspired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, Sankalp introduced “Ek Ped Ghar Ke Bachche Ya Bachchi Ke Naam” across villages of Tauru Block in Nuh, Haryana. The initiative encourages families to dedicate a tree to every son or daughter, creating an emotional bond between the family and the tree and encouraging them to nurture it as it grows.

Taking this philosophy forward, the new plantation drive will bring 11 Panchayats and communities together in a wider stewardship effort, extending responsibility beyond the day of plantation and making local participation central to sustaining the green cover created through the campaign.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “The monsoon gives us the opportunity to put thousands of saplings into the ground, but the real responsibility begins once they are planted. A tree needs more than soil and rain, it needs people who are willing to care for it. ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ has shown us the power of connecting environmental action with emotion, and through Sankalp we are turning that connection into community stewardship. With 1 lakh+ trees being planted across 11 Panchayats in Gurugram, we want every sapling to have a story, a community behind it and the opportunity to grow into a lasting green legacy. Our aim is not simply to plant more trees, but to inspire more people to take ownership of the environment around them.”

The initiative adds to the significant environmental footprint of Sankalp, which has facilitated the plantation of more than 6.7 lakh trees across six states, including over 1.70 lakh trees across 54 Panchayats. The programme has also undertaken Miyawaki forests, orchard-based agroforestry, restoration of degraded landscapes, biodiversity enhancement and groundwater recharge, reflecting an integrated approach to ecological restoration.

The latest campaign will contribute to strengthening green cover across Gurugram while supporting the ecological landscape around the Aravallis. By involving communities directly, it also seeks to foster everyday environmental stewardship and reinforce the principles of Mission LiFE and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

With the monsoon planting season underway, 1 lakh+ trees targeted and 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and coming together, M3M Foundation aims to turn a seasonal opportunity into a lasting environmental commitment, creating greener spaces today and communities that continue to nurture them tomorrow.

Through Sankalp, M3M Foundation believes that the strongest green legacy is one that communities plant, protect and pass on.

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

More than 100 Porsche cars came together in Mumbai for a special Friendship Day drive, celebrating community and the passion for driving
 

The convoy made its way through some of Mumbai’s most iconic roads, including the Coastal Road and Marine Drive, creating a striking sight across the city. With more than 100 Porsche cars travelling together, the drive offered owners an opportunity to experience the city from behind the wheel while connecting with fellow members of the Porsche community.
 

Speaking about the initiative Pooja Choudary, Director Porsche Centre Mumbai – Infinity Cars, said, “Friendship Day provided us with a wonderful opportunity to bring our Porsche community together and celebrate the shared passion that connects our customers. Seeing more than 100 Porsche cars come together across Mumbai was a testament to the strong sense of camaraderie within our community. At Porsche Centre Mumbai – Infinity Cars, we remain committed to creating memorable experiences that extend beyond the automobile and foster meaningful connections among our customers and their families.”
 

The drive concluded with an exclusive breakfast for Porsche owners and their families, providing an opportunity for members of the community to interact, exchange experiences and celebrate their shared connection with the marque in a relaxed setting.
 

The strong participation reflected the enthusiasm and sense of community among Porsche owners in Mumbai, while highlighting Porsche Centre Mumbai - Infinity Cars’ continued focus on creating meaningful customer experiences that extend beyond the automobile. Through curated drives and community-led initiatives, the centre continues to foster stronger connections among customers who share an appreciation for the Porsche brand and the experience of driving.
 

The Friendship Day drive served as a celebration not only of the cars, but also of the people and relationships that make the Porsche ownership community distinctive.
 

About Porsche Centre Mumbai - Infinity Cars

Porsche Centre Mumbai – Infinity Cars is committed to delivering an exceptional Porsche experience to customers across Mumbai, extending beyond the purchase and ownership of a vehicle. Through curated customer experiences, drives and community-led initiatives, the centre creates opportunities for Porsche owners to connect, engage and celebrate their shared passion for the marque.

Celebrating 80 years of India’s freedom, Hyderabad’s ultra-luxury real estate developer reimagines the national anthem through a symphony of more than 50 sounds captured from across the nation

Conceptualised and created by Chennai-based ‘Be Positive 24 Innovation Design, the new campaign uses more than 50 distinct sounds captured from across the country, the sound of a rocket launching, a passing train, birds, school bells, temple bells, streets, people, musical instruments, nature and movement, to together become one song in the tune of the national anthem.

“India is our home, and this is a musical tribute to our beautiful home, on her birthday. As a developer, we have always tried to create delight through innovation. We wanted to do something that was simple in thought, but powerful in emotion. We know that the world is listening to India,” said Sidharth Reddy Indukuri, CEO, The World at Jubilee Hills.

“We recorded over 100 sounds and spent weeks experimenting with them, selecting the ones that could come together musically and meaningfully. The sound and film went through more than 35 iterations. It took us nearly 100 days and multiple partners to put everything together. It was painstaking, sometimes maddening, but incredibly rewarding,” said Abhishek D Shah, Founder, Be Positive 24 Innovation Design.

The campaign film will go live on August 12, 2026, on The World at Jubilee Hills’ YouTube channel and will be amplified across the brand’s social media platforms. From August 13 onwards, the campaign will be further extended through an influencer-led activation, bringing relevant creators and pages into the conversation and taking this musical tribute to India’s unity and diversity to a wider audience.

Website: theworldjh.com

Youtube Campaign Video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=byuG2ST7P3s&feature=youtu.be

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading retail financiers in the country, introduced three new TV commercials (TVC) with the tagline, ‘Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo, L&T Finance Gold Loan Karo,’ featuring its brand ambassador, Jasprit Bumrah. Through this campaign, LTF will drive awareness for its Gold Loan offerings and empower individuals, micro-entrepreneurs, and households to unlock the value of their idle gold to fuel their growth, aspirations, and dreams.

 L&T Finance launches an Integrated Marketing Campaign in key markets in eight states and one union territory in the country

The TVC will be launched during the upcoming India vs Sri Lanka test series to be held from August 15, 2026 onwards. As the ‘Co-presenting’ partner for the series, LTF will be amplifying the campaign across on-ground and TV channels during the matches. The TVC will be aired on Sony TV Broadcast Network across its nine Linear TV channels. 

The newly launched commercials are a light-hearted three-film series, effortlessly blending humour with the realities of modern financial aspirations. Cricketer Jasprit Bumrah features as a trusted problem solver. In the first film, he advises a struggling farmer to leverage a gold loan and expand his livestock to boost his income. In the second scenario, he encourages a nosy homemaker to stop putting her dreams on hold and use Gold Loan to bring home the consumer durables she has always wished for. And, in the third film, he guides a Kirana store owner to restock his depleting inventory and scale up operations.

Mr. Raju Dodti, Chief Operating Officer and Whole-time Director at LTF, said “As L&T Finance continues its transformation into a Risk-first, Tech-first, AI-native retail financial institution under our Lakshya 2031 strategy, Gold Finance serves as one of the key drivers of our growth agenda. Reflecting this momentum, our high-yielding, secured gold loan portfolio grew by an impressive 182% YoY to Rs. 3,829 Crore in Q1FY27, up from Rs. 1,360 Crore in Q1FY26, backed by 343 active Gold Finance branches, with a plan to take total Gold Finance branches to over 800 in this financial year. This campaign allows us to tap into emerging markets, deepen customer connection, and ensure a sustained upward trajectory in the coming years.”

Ms. Kavita Jagtiani, Chief Marketing Officer at LTF, said, “Today’s consumers are aspirational, yet increasingly value-conscious in how they approach credit. Gold Loans sit perfectly at this intersection- offering a safe and smart way to achieve the goals using an asset they already trust. India holds a vast amount of idle household gold; there is immense opportunity to turn these savings into active growth. With the ‘Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo, L&T Finance Gold Loan Karo’ campaign, we want to showcase gold as a source of real financial utility that helps individuals move forward with confidence. We are confident this campaign will meaningfully resonate with audiences across the country, reinforcing our position as a trusted financial partner.”

The Company has launched an integrated marketing campaign to cover key markets in eight states and a union territory, reaching consumers through approximately 150 branches of LTF. For its on-ground and experiential engagement, LTF is rolling out branded vehicles as the 'Sapno ki Sunehri Gaadi' across high-footfall areas to spark curiosity. This experiential branding creates a tangible touchpoint for rural audiences. Complementing this is the transit media branding across buses and autorickshaws, extending the brand's footprint deep into local markets.

Taking the narrative to the streets, LTF also plans to deploy street props such as park benches as gold-branded canvases, creating hyperlocal visibility. LTF is also spotlighting high-footfall branches across all zones with immersive, 360-degree branding designed for maximum recall. 

To boost its digital presence and reach local audiences, LTF is using real-time shopping signals by playing custom promotional jingles at checkout counters of local shops during live payment transactions. The overall media strategy blends high-reach video platforms with deep-rooted integration across Tier 2 and Tier 3 vernacular channels, enlisting regional creators to bring relatable, real-life financial moments to life in the languages audiences are most comfortable with.

To watch the TV commercials, click here: 

• Kheti Badhane Ka Sapna | Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

• Bada TV Ho Ya Bada Fridge | Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

• Business Badhana Hai? Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

To apply for ‘L&T Finance Gold Loan’, please give missed call on +91 7045180180 or visit our website www.ltfinance.com.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)
L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) ( www.LTFINANCE.com ), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has affirmed LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on transforming into a Risk-first, Technology-first, AI-native Retail financial services institution as part of the Lakshya 2031 strategic plan. The Company has over 2.9 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance
X: x.com/LnTFinance
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Mandara Women's Wellness by HiLITE Group

Speaking on the launch, P. Sulaiman, Chairman, HiLITE Group, said "Mandara represents a meaningful step for HiLITE Group as we extend our commitment into healthcare and wellness. This launch strengthens our long-term vision of scaling women-centric healthcare infrastructure in India, and Mandara is just the beginning of that journey.” 

“Mandara is a reflection of our belief that true progress must include the health and well-being of women at every stage of life. Mandara, more than an expansion of our portfolio, it is an extension of our purpose. We are taking a meaningful step into women’s health,” said Ajil Muhammed, CEO of HiLITE Group.

Situated near Calicut University, the property features 20 independent, IoT-enabled private cottages categorized into Signature Private, Executive, and Wellness options. These serene living spaces incorporate integrated environmental and health sensors designed to support focused, unhurried recovery in complete privacy and complete comfort. Under the leadership of Dr. Azhar Mubarak, CEO of the Healthcare Wing at HiLITE Group, Mandara is structured to transform postnatal recovery and long-term restorative health for women across every stage of life.

“The way a society cares for its women says everything about the future it is building,” said Dr. Azhar Mubarak, CEO of the Healthcare Wing at HiLITE Group. “Mandara Women’s Wellness became a reality when we asked why women in India shouldn't have access to world-class, dedicated wellness experiences right here at home. Every detail the space, the therapies, the conversations are intentionally crafted around women so they can heal and rejuvenate,” he added.

Mandara structures its clinical and wellness programming around six primary life stages to provide complete continuity of care. The retreat offers foundational Women's Wellness for everyday vitality, Prenatal Wellness for guided physiological support during pregnancy, and specialized Postnatal Wellness for mother and newborn recovery. Additionally, the retreat provides Menopausal Wellness to assist with hormonal transitions, Preventive Women's Wellness focused on early intervention and health optimization, and dedicated Geriatric Care designed to support healthy aging and mobility.

Therapeutically, Mandara pairs advanced medical recovery technology with traditional healing modalities to ensure comprehensive healing. Its modern infrastructure features Hyperbaric Oxygen Chambers for cellular recovery, HiFEM Pelvic Strength Chairs for non-invasive core rehabilitation, Infrared Therapy Beds, and Terahertz Bioresonance Energy Therapy. These technologies operate alongside classical Ayurvedic treatments, all customized using personalized herbal formulations. The retreat integrates an AI-driven clinical spa, naturopathic detox pathways, postpartum-safe Pilates, aquatherapy, and dietitian-guided therapeutic culinary menus prepared specifically to boost immunity. 

Postnatal care forms the core operational priority at Mandara, offering a dedicated framework that serves mother and baby simultaneously in a safe environment. A 24/7 baby nursery and infant spa, fully staffed by qualified medical professionals, allows new mothers dedicated time for recovery, therapy, and restful sleep with full reassurance. Complementing this is a specialized Mother’s Lounge featuring zero-gravity recliners and a supportive community space, alongside daily educational workshops covering lactation guidance, infant CPR training, newborn care, and postpartum mental wellbeing to build lasting confidence.

For booking inquiries, clinical consultations, or further details regarding residential retreat programs, visit www.mandarawellness.in/contact or call +91 99612 00055.

Citizens raising awareness on wild elephants and captive Amer Fort elephants in Jaipur at Patrika Gate Photograph: Shubhobroto Ghosh
 

Amer Fort remains one of India’s most iconic tourist destinations. Yet, its global reputation faces significant risks due to the practice of using captive elephants for daily tourist entertainment. Decades of scientific research, veterinary assessments, and investigative wildlife reports reveal a grim reality. The elephants suffer from chronic foot infections, painful arthritis, and severe psychological distress. These conditions stem directly from walking on hard concrete surfaces under scorching heat while carrying heavy iron howdahs and multiple tourists.
 

The welfare issues inherent in the Amer Fort elephant rides are systemic and deep rooted. Captive elephants are wild animals by nature. They undergo a brutal training process known as 'the crush' to break their spirit and make them submissive to human commands. At Amer Fort, many elephants are forced to work despite advanced age and serious medical ailments. Investigative audits have consistently found that a vast majority of these elephants suffer from compromised vision, permanent limb deformities, and severe nutritional deficiencies from poor diets.
 

Furthermore, the public safety risks associated with this practice are escalating rapidly. Elephants are highly intelligent, social, and emotional animals. When subjected to prolonged stress, isolation, and physical abuse, they can experience sudden bouts of psychosis, that results them in running amok. Over the years, multiple incidents at Amer Fort have seen stressed elephants turn aggressive, endangering international tourists, handlers, and local people. In an era where global travellers actively seek responsible tourism experiences, the continuation of animal exploitation severely damages Jaipur's tourism brand. An elephant named Chanchal was painted pink by the Russian artist Julia Buruleva for a photoshoot in 2025 and this elephant died earlier this year.
 

World Animal Protection is not merely demanding an end to the rides but presenting a viable solution. Under the phase out plan there lies a new framework whereby tourists can observe elephants in a natural sanctuary setting. This model promotes educational tourism, allowing visitors to watch elephants walk, bathe, forage, and socialise safely from a respectful distance.
 

Crucially, this proposed transition protects local livelihoods. The plan will propose that the current elephant handlers, known as mahouts, receive specialized training to transition into sanctuary guides, educational instructors, and caretakers. Financial models demonstrate that global tourists are willing to pay a premium for ethical wildlife encounters. This shift will secure stable, long term revenue for local communities while elevating Jaipur as a global pioneer in sustainable heritage tourism.
 

“As the international community celebrates World Elephant Day 2026, the eyes of the world are on Rajasthan. Progressive travel agencies worldwide are removing elephant rides from their itineraries. Global travel platforms are refusing to promote venues that exploit captive wildlife. Thirty companies have undertaken the wildlife friendly pledge of World Animal Protection in India to not offer elephant rides in their itineraries. World Animal Protection urges the Chief Minister of Rajasthan to act decisively and end elephant rides in Amer Fort and retire the elephants. Ending the Amer Fort elephant rides will honour India’s wildlife protection laws and secure a humane future for these gentle giants which are India’s National Heritage Animal,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India.
 

For more information, please contact:
Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India
Email: gajenderksharma@worldanimalprotection.org.in
Phone Number : 9313333283

Lithium batteries keep catching fire. Why do they keep failing - and is there a safer alternative already on the production line? Can a country build a battery industry without depending on China for rare earths? And what would it actually take to build a battery company in India today?

Henning Rath, CEO of EnerVenue and Kun Tang, Executive Chairman of HiNa Battery on WTF is, with Nikhil Kamath

In the latest episode of People by WTF, Nikhil Kamath, who has been investing in energy-transition companies through his private-equity fund, sits down with Henning Rath, CEO of EnerVenue, and Kun Tang, Executive Chairman of HiNa Battery, to understand what the next battery industry could look like and whether India should build it. The conversation moves from battery chemistry to industrial policy, manufacturing, AI infrastructure, and the economics of building a battery company from scratch in India.

One of the episode's sharpest moments comes when Kamath presses on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries - the chemistry powering most electric vehicles globally, including many Teslas and BYDs. Rath explains “thermal runaway”: once a battery reaches a certain temperature, its internal reaction becomes self-accelerating and cannot be stopped. Tang then offers a number that visibly stops Kamath - the world recorded over 14,000 LFP battery fires in 2025 alone. “The higher the energy, the more safety issues,” Tang says. “The energy is like water in a pump, but the tube is thin. That's easy to break.” Neither guest treats this as purely a chemistry problem: Tang notes that safety incidents cluster heavily among smaller, tier-two Chinese manufacturers. At the same time, leaders like CATL and BYD charge a premium precisely because of tighter production quality.

The conversation turns to what comes after lithium. Tang, whose company has already supplied what it describes as the world's first 100-megawatt-hour sodium-ion storage project, argues sodium costs roughly a tenth of lithium, resists thermal runaway at current energy densities, and is built from materials - sodium, iron, phosphate - that almost any country can source domestically. Its trade-off is energy density, which for now limits it to grid storage and short-range vehicles like scooters and three-wheelers rather than long-range cars. Rath's EnerVenue bets on a different route entirely: a nickel-based, water-electrolyte battery adapted from technology NASA once used, designed to sharply reduce fire risk by removing the higher-risk components that trigger thermal runaway, and rated for 30,000 charge cycles, though it currently works only for stationary storage, not vehicles. Both are skeptical that solid-state batteries, often billed as lithium’s true successor, are close to market, citing an industry readiness scale of one to nine, Tang places the technology at around level four, strong in research papers but far from commercial production.

Looking further out, Rath frames the next decade around three converging “super cycles” - electrification, manufacturing and AI - all running ahead of supply, and argues that any country serious about competing will need genuine energy independence rather than dependence on imported lithium and rare earths, a dependency he expects to grow more contested as globalisation gives way to regional blocs. He points to 2023 as the year renewable power paired with batteries quietly became cheaper than fossil fuels across much of the world, a shift he expects AI data centres to accelerate as they move away from diesel backup power toward safer battery storage.

The discussion turns directly to India, where Kamath is weighing an entry into the energy transition himself. “After my trip in China, I want to go back to India and start a business,” Kamath says, asking his guests point blank whether he should build an electric car company or a battery company. Rath’s answer is unambiguous: skip the car company. Build a battery company decoupled from lithium and rare earths altogether, pointing to India’s scooter and three-wheeler market as a natural first customer for sodium-ion technology. The two also unpack how BYD went from a phone-battery maker to a fully vertically integrated EV and battery giant within roughly a decade, backed by what Rath calls China’s “government venture capital” model: funding dozens of companies in a sector and expecting only a handful, BYD and CATL among them, to ultimately survive and dominate.

The episode closes on China's relationship with AI, which both guests describe as defined more by curiosity than anxiety - spanning three generations in Tang's own family, from his 90-year-old grandfather ordering drone food delivery to his six-year-old daughter. “The excitement is outpacing the anxiety,” Rath says, calling it a marked contrast to the mood he encounters in the United States.

“No single technology will solve our problem,” Tang offers as a closing thought. “We need more different chemistry to meet different demands.” It’s a fitting close to a conversation that treats the search for the next great battery less as a single breakthrough than an unglamorous, ongoing race, measured in charge cycles, safety margins and cost curves rather than headlines.

The episode is available now on YouTube.

About People by WTF

People by WTF is a global podcast platform hosted by Nikhil Kamath, featuring in-depth conversations with leaders across business, policy, technology, culture and academia. The show explores long-term institutional, technological and economic questions shaping global society through candid, high-signal dialogue. Past guests include Elon Musk, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bill Gates, Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty, Martin Escobari, Bryan Armstrong and Ranbir Kapoor.

Notes to the Editor

Guests

Henning Rath - CEO of EnerVenue, a California-based energy storage company commercializing nickel-hydrogen battery technology originally developed by NASA and refined at Stanford University. EnerVenue closed a USD 300 million Series B extension in 2026 and is scaling manufacturing in Changzhou, China. Rath previously served as Managing Director and Chief Supply Chain Officer at German renewable energy company Enpal.

Kun Tang - Executive Chairman of HiNa Battery, a Beijing-headquartered sodium-ion battery company spun out of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2017. HiNa has supplied what it describes as the world’s first 100MWh sodium-ion energy storage project and holds over 30 patents across sodium-ion cathode, anode and electrolyte technology.

Key Themes Discussed:

• Why LFP batteries dominate EVs and why they catch fire

• Sodium-ion and nickel-hydrogen batteries as alternatives to lithium

• China’s industrial-policy playbook for building battery and EV giants

• Energy independence amid deglobalisation

• Data centres, diesel backup power and the case for safer batteries

• Solid-state batteries: hype versus technological readiness

• Advice for building a battery company in India

• AI adoption in China across generations

Related Episode - WTF is Happening In EV?:

• Punit Goyal (Blusmart):

• Explores why electric mobility is fundamentally an energy and infrastructure business, arguing that charging networks, renewable power procurement and fleet financing must be built together for EVs to scale.

• Discusses the economics of battery ownership, including battery life cycles, second-life battery use and how battery costs shape the long-term economics of EV businesses.

• Explores how EVs become more environmentally and economically compelling as India’s renewable energy share rises, linking battery demand directly to the country’s evolving power mix and energy security.

• Chetan Maini (SUN Mobility): Examines battery swapping as an alternative to larger batteries, discussing how swapping can lower vehicle costs, reduce downtime and make electric mobility more viable for scooters, commercial vehicles and logistics fleets.

• Tarun Mehta (Ather Energy): Examines India’s battery and EV manufacturing opportunity, highlighting GST structures, PLI incentives and supply-chain challenges that could determine whether India builds a globally competitive battery and electric mobility ecosystem.

Blue Dart celebrates Raksha Bandhan with #YaadonKaBandhan campaign

This festive season, Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation and distribution company, is celebrating these cherished connections through its #YaadonKaBandhan campaign. As part of the campaign, Blue Dart has introduced special Rakhi Express shipping offers to help customers send festive packages conveniently across India.

Valid from 27 July to 28 August 2026, the offer provides special flat rates on Domestic Priority shipments weighing up to 2.5 kg and discounts of up to 50% on eligible international shipments weighing between 0.5 kg and 3 kg. Customers can use the service to send Rakhis, personalised gifts and festive packages across Blue Dart’s extensive domestic network.

Through the campaign, Blue Dart aims to make festive shipping more accessible while ensuring that every package is handled with care and delivered with the speed, reliability and precision associated with its express network.

Offer Details*:

Period: 27th July to 23rd August

• 0.5 Kg → Rs. 200

• 1 Kg → Rs. 400

• 1.5 Kg → Rs. 600

• 2 Kg → Rs. 800

• 2.5 Kg → Rs. 1000

Period: 24th August to 28th August

• 0.5 Kg → Rs. 300

• 1 Kg → Rs. 500

• 1.5 Kg → Rs. 700

• 2 Kg → Rs. 900

• 2.5 Kg → Rs. 1100

*The offer is applicable only to Domestic Priority shipments. Taxes and other applicable charges, if any, will be additional. Terms and conditions apply.

International Shipments (27th July – 28th August)

• Campaign Discount → Up to 50%

• Weight Break → 0.5 Kg – 3 Kg

*Custom Duty, Taxes and other applicable charges, if any, will be additional. Terms and conditions apply.

As families increasingly celebrate festivals across distances, dependable logistics plays an important role in ensuring that traditions continue uninterrupted. Supported by its integrated air and ground network, Blue Dart continues to connect people, businesses and communities across the country through reliable and time-definite delivery solutions.

The limited-period offer is available across Blue Dart–DHL retail stores and Franchisee Collection Centres. Customers can also avail of free doorstep pickup by booking through Blue Dart’s website or Customer Care, subject to service availability.

For further details, customers may visit their nearest Blue Dart–DHL retail store, contact Blue Dart Customer Care at 022 4061 1234, or email customerservice@bluedart.com.

For more information or to book a shipment, visit www.bluedart.com.

VF 6 Earth delivers significant potential savings in total ownership costs compared with a comparable gasoline vehicle in India

In this day and age, a car buyer comparing models can find horsepower, cargo space, and safety ratings in minutes. What is much harder to see is which vehicle will actually cost less to own after years of loan payments, fuel bills, and maintenance. Those factors make up a vehicle’s total cost of ownership (TCO), a metric that encompasses all expenses incurred throughout the ownership period.

That information gap has become increasingly important as electric vehicles move into the mainstream. While EVs are widely promoted for their lower operating costs, consumers can still struggle to translate those promises into their own finances. For example, how much can an EV really save after five years? The answer depends on how far people drive, how long they keep the vehicle, and even how they choose to finance it.

VinFast is betting that making those calculations easier and more transparent could help more buyers make the switch.

The Vietnamese EV maker has introduced a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator, initially across its Asian markets, giving consumers a way to compare the long-term economics of electric vehicles with gasoline cars and even rival EVs based on their own driving habits. Rather than comparing sticker prices alone, consumers can see the cumulative financial impact of ownership, including financing and running costs, over several years.

On the web-based tool, users simply enter basic information such as the vehicle model, monthly mileage, battery ownership option, and expected ownership period to receive a personalized cost projection. Within seconds, the calculator estimates monthly payments, monthly energy costs, and total ownership costs before showing how much an owner could save over the chosen period compared with comparable internal combustion vehicles and even other EVs.

For example, a buyer in the India selecting a VF 6 Earth, driving 2,000 km per month over five years, would see an estimated total ownership cost of INR 1,782,655. Under the same assumptions, the calculator estimates a comparable gasoline vehicle would cost INR 2,464,371 over the same period, representing potential savings of INR 681,716, or about 28%.

Beyond product marketing, the TCO tool also functions as a financial planning tool, helping households, commuters, and commercial users forecast transportation expenses before making a purchase. That approach is particularly relevant in emerging EV markets, where energy-saving technologies often face adoption challenges because of higher upfront purchase prices despite offering long-term financial benefits. Consumers may not always realize that, over time, reduced energy consumption can offset much or even all of that initial price premium.

Research suggests that making those savings more transparent can influence purchasing decisions. One survey found that simply showing consumers five-year fuel savings had little effect on vehicle preferences, whereas providing total cost of ownership information increased the likelihood that buyers of small and mid-sized cars would choose hybrid and battery electric vehicles over gasoline models.

More recently, Deloitte's 2026 Global Automotive Consumer Study found that 52% of U.S. consumers considering an EV cited lower fuel costs as their primary motivation, while 40% said overall vehicle cost remains one of their biggest concerns. The findings suggest buyers are increasingly evaluating vehicles based on lifetime ownership economics rather than purchase price alone.

For automakers, that means helping consumers understand lifetime ownership economics may become as important as communicating battery range or performance.

For VinFast, the calculator reflects that evolution. Instead of asking consumers to take its claims of lower ownership costs at face value, the company is giving them a tool to test different scenarios themselves, turning one of the industry's most common selling points into something measurable, personalized, and easier to act on.

Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life

For further support, claimants can connect with HDFC Life via the below touch points:
 

Dedicated claim helpline: 022-68446529
Call Centre Number: 022-68446530
WhatsApp: +91 8291890569
Email:service@hdfclife.com
Nodal Officer: Ruma Konwar | 8876517557
 

Claimants may also choose to visit any of HDFC Life’s branch offices. The branch addresses for affected areas are given below:
 

Jorhat: 2nd Floor, Sneha Heights, New Balibat, Jorhat, Assam 
Sivasagar: 2nd Floor, Jagannath Plaza, Transport Tiniali Sivasagar, Assam 
Golaghat: Ground Floor, Om Arav Building, Thana Road, Golaghat, Assam
 

Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life said, “We at HDFC Life are committed to stand by our policyholders’ families who are impacted by this calamity. We will ensure that each claim request, received from anyone impacted by the floods in Assam, is treated as priority to ensure a smooth and hassle-free payout.”

For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn

Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Aioli

Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Aioli

Ingredients

California Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites
2 cups California walnuts
14-15 mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
1 ½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil for frying, about 4 cups
Sun-Dried Tomato and California Walnut Aioli
½ cup finely ground California walnuts
½ cup water
1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
6 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

Preparations

For the Ground California Walnuts
1. Place walnuts into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped and texture is similar to breadcrumbs.
2. Measure 1 cup of ground walnuts for use in mozzarella bites and reserve remaining ½ cup for use in aioli.
For the Mozzarella Bites
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Dry mozzarella balls with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup ground walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and spices.
4. In a shallow or medium-sized bowl, beat eggs together until combined. Add flour to a separate shallow or medium-sized bowl.
5. One at a time, dredge each mozzarella ball in the flour, followed by dipping in the egg, coating completely. Shake off excess egg, then roll in the walnut and panko mixture until fully coated.
6. Transfer the mozzarella bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes prior to frying.
7. Heat oil in a large, deep skillet to 180 - 190°C.
8. Remove mozzarella bites from the freezer. While still cold, fry bites in small batches until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove fried mozzarella bites from the oil and place onto a paper towel-lined tray.
9. Serve immediately. Mozzarella bites can be kept warm in a 120°C oven until ready to serve.

California Walnut Loaded Roast Potatoes

California Walnut Loaded Roast Potatoes

Ingredients

1.2 kg potatoes, cut into chunks
8 tablespoons oil
100g California walnuts, chopped
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3 sprigs rosemary, leaves chopped
50g Parmigiana Reggiano, finely grated
½ x 25g pack parsley, chopped

Preparations

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.

2. Cook the potatoes in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes until they begin to soften round the edges. Drain and return to the pan. Toss in 3 tablespoons oil.

3. Place half the walnuts in a food processor and blitz to give a fine crumb texture, mix in the garlic, rosemary, Parmesan and half the remaining walnuts, season well.

4. Toss into the potatoes and transfer to a large roasting tin, spreading them out evenly.

5. Drizzle over the remaining oil and roast for 30 minutes. Turn the potatoes and add the remaining walnuts and cook for a further 5-10 minutes until golden.

6. Sprinkle with parsley to serve.

Dahi Walnut Kebab

Dahi Walnut Kebab – Chef Abinas Nayak

Ingredients
1 cup hung curd
1 teaspoon of brown onion paste
1 teaspoon of roasted California walnut paste (Blend handful of roasted walnuts with little bit of water and a teaspoon of walnut)
3 teaspoons of grated paneer
2 teaspoons of grated cheese
1/2 teaspoon of chopped coriander,
1/2 teaspoon of mint leaves
1-2 chopped green chillies
1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin and fennel
1/2 teaspoon of finely chopped ginger.
Salt as per taste

Preparations
1. Mix everything to make a thick paste. Keep it in fridge for half an hour.
2. To make walnut crust or crumb, roughly blend roasted walnuts and spread in a flat tray.
3. To finish take a dollop of Dahi Kebab mixture and coat it with prepared walnut crust. In hot seasoned tawa, shallow fry the Dahi Kebabs with ghee.

4. Enjoy hot with chutney of your choice.

Aura Vantaje is redefining commercial investment potential on Sohna Road

Located in Sector 48, Aura Vantaje is a two-acre luxury commercial development that combines organised retail and office spaces within a single address. Planned with retail across the ground floor to the fourth floor and office spaces from the fifth to the eleventh floor, the project has been designed around the way commercial developments are increasingly expected to function. The investment in the project's construction stands at around Rs. 125 crores, while the estimated topline is pegged at Rs. 527 crores. Commercial units are priced from Rs. 50,00,000 onwards.

The timing is difficult to ignore. Commercial real estate in Gurugram has continued to remain resilient, supported by sustained office leasing, a growing presence of Global Capability Centres and a mature residential base that drives demand for organised retail. According to Colliers, India's Grade A office leasing reached a record 71.5 million sq. ft. in 2025, with Delhi NCR remaining one of the country's most active office markets. That demand has also changed the way commercial projects are planned. Location still matters, but it is no longer the only consideration.

Retailers today look beyond visibility alone. They evaluate the strength of the surrounding catchment, customer demographics and the ability of a project to sustain footfall throughout the day. They want to know what the surrounding catchment looks like, how people move through the building, whether offices are part of the development and if the project can remain active beyond shopping hours. Office occupiers ask similar questions. They look for workplaces that offer cafes, convenience retail, banking facilities and everyday services without employees having to step out every time they need something. Those conversations have become increasingly common over the past few years.

Aura Vantaje appears to respond to those expectations through its planning. Rather than treating retail and offices as two independent products, the project attempts to let one support the other. Retail occupies the lower floors where visibility and customer movement matter the most. The office component rises above, creating a steady weekday population that can support businesses operating within the development. It is a straightforward planning approach, but one that helps create a more balanced commercial environment by bringing together steady office demand and organised retail.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder & Managing Director, Aura World, said, “Sohna Road has evolved into one of Gurugram’s most established commercial corridors, and the availability of sizeable land parcels for organised developments is now extremely limited. With Aura Vantaje, our focus is on creating a future-ready commercial address that integrates retail and office spaces within a strong residential and corporate catchment. We believe projects in mature, supply-constrained micro-markets are increasingly being evaluated for their long-term relevance, occupier demand and ability to remain active throughout the day, and Aura Vantaje has been planned with exactly those priorities in mind.”

Its location strengthens that proposition further. Sector 48 enjoys seamless connectivity to Golf Course Extension Road, Southern Peripheral Road and NH-48, allowing businesses to draw customers, employees and visitors from multiple parts of Gurugram. As commercial activity continues to spread across the city, this accessibility has become an increasingly important competitive advantaje.

Scarcity is now becoming part of the Sohna Road story as well. Unlike a decade ago, when new commercial projects were announced with regularity, opportunities to launch developments of meaningful scale have become increasingly limited because much of the corridor has already been developed. That changes the conversation for both occupiers and investors. The emphasis gradually shifts from simply acquiring commercial space to choosing locations that are likely to remain relevant over the long term. The existing retail developments along Sohna Road are relatively older and no longer fully align with the evolving expectations of today's consumers. While the corridor continues to attract strong footfall, Aura Vantaje introduces a contemporary retail destination that reflects changing consumer preferences and retail formats.

Sohna Road is no longer defining itself through new infrastructure or fresh land releases. It is beginning to be defined by the quality of developments that still find a place here. Aura Vantaje enters the market at a point when that distinction is becoming increasingly important.

Navina Jafa, expert in heritage tourism and Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India

Through The India Culture Travel Index, Skyscanner analysed the evolving behaviours driving culture-led travel in India. The findings uncover five defining trends that together form the R.O.O.T.S. of India's growing culture-led travel movement:

R - Rediscovering heritage

Heritage continues to be the strongest driver of culture-led travel. It is the top motivator for Indian travellers, with 47% saying they would plan a trip around heritage and historical sites. Kerala, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand rank among the country's leading cultural destinations, reflecting travellers' growing interest in exploring India's architectural landmarks, historic communities and living traditions.

O - Open discovery

As Indian travellers become more open to discovering destinations through culture, they are embracing more immersive experiences beyond traditional sightseeing. Social media and YouTube (42%), along with the growing popularity of food, craft and heritage trails (41%), are the biggest drivers behind growing interest in culture-led travel.

Beyond domestic travel, 46% of Indian travellers have already travelled internationally for a cultural event, festival or heritage trail, while a further 43% aspire to do so, highlighting a growing curiosity to explore culture both within India and around the world. This openness extends closer to home too, with one in four Indian travellers (25%) heading to Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns for cultural experiences, beyond the usual metro circuit.

O - Once-in-a-year experiences

Festival tourism is emerging as a powerful travel driver, with 72% of Indian travellers saying they would consider planning a trip specifically to attend a major cultural or religious festival. India's iconic festivals are powerful travel motivators, with Durga Puja (58%) emerging as the top festival travellers would consider travelling to attend, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi (52%) and Navratri Garba (47%).

The findings suggest that travellers are increasingly treating major festivals as limited-time experiences worth planning an entire holiday around, rather than simply activities to enjoy after arriving at a destination.

T - Traditions & Taste

Food, crafts, and local traditions continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping culture-led travel. Regional food experiences rank among the top reasons for travel, with 43% of Indian travellers saying they would plan a trip around them. The growing popularity highlights an appetite for experiences that connect travellers with a destination's local traditions, flavours and way of life.

S - Smarter planning

As cultural experiences become a bigger travel priority, travellers are becoming more intentional in how they plan their journeys. Most Indian travellers begin planning their culture-led trips well in advance, with 40% starting three to six months ahead and 36% beginning one to three months before departure.

Festival timing has become the biggest booking consideration, with 36% of travellers saying availability during key festival or event dates matters most, followed by affordable prices for transport and accommodation (32%).

With many cultural experiences taking place at specific times of the year, Skyscanner's Price Alerts allow travellers to monitor fare changes without having to repeatedly search, while Whole Month search lets them compare prices across different travel dates to identify the best value around festivals, heritage trails and other cultural experiences.

Looking ahead, India's appetite for culture-led travel shows no signs of slowing. With 41% Indian travellers planning to take two culture-focused trips within India over the next year, 32% expect to take three to four. While enthusiasm remains high, safety concerns (49%) and high travel costs (37%) continue to be the biggest barriers to taking more culture-led journeys.

Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, "For a long time, people chose a destination first and discovered its culture once they arrived. We're increasingly seeing that journey now happens in reverse. Travellers are starting with the experience they want, whether that's witnessing Durga Puja, exploring a heritage trail or discovering a region through its food, and then building the trip around it. That shift is changing not just where people travel, but how they plan.

When festival dates are fixed and demand is high, comparing different travel dates, airlines, airports and routes can help travellers find better value. For instance, try mixing and matching airlines or airports when you are searching for flights, and use helpful tools like Skyscanner's Price Alerts, to find better value when planning travel. "

Dr Navina Jafa, an expert in heritage tourism, sustainability, cultural strategy, and Kathak dance, said, "India's cultural heritage is not only about monuments, but also the ecosystems around heritage landscapes: creative skilled communities, cultural traditions, and living practices. Studies show a growing number of travellers seeking immersive heritage experiences, underlining India’s need to invest in its vast geographical diversity and multilayered cultural legacy. This fast-growing sector offers major opportunities for conservation, economic growth, and for strengthening heritage tourism nationally and globally."

As India's appetite for culture-led travel continues to grow, Skyscanner continues to help travellers uncover the R.O.O.T.S. of every journey, from rediscovering heritage and open discovery to once-in-a-year experiences, traditions, and taste, and smarter planning.

Top destinations to connect with your ROOTS**

Skyscanner has also curated a selection of cultural destinations across India, helping travellers turn inspiration into their next journey. Explore the guide here.

About Skyscanner 

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trips with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options. Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America, where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they've seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Note to Editors

*Skyscanner research conducted with OnePoll in July 2026 with 2,000 respondents in India.

**Live prices dated 27th July 2026, one-way trip from Delhi to destinations. Subject to change

(1) Almora does not have an airport - prices are for Dehradun (354 kms)

(2) Puri does not have an airport - prices are for Bhubaneswar (65 kms)

(3) Kohima does not have an airport - prices are for Imphal (120 kms)

Union Minister Lalan Singh lights the ceremonial lamp at Sustainable Agriculture Summit 2026, with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kumar Jha and NDDB Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah

Organised by Sustainability Matters, IndiAgri and Alliance for Change, Transformation & Innovation (ACTION), the Summit emerged as a national platform for dialogue on the future of Indian agriculture, focusing on sustainability, climate resilience, innovation, rural entrepreneurship, food security, natural resource management and farmer prosperity.

In his keynote address, Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj emphasised that the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047 can only be achieved through a strong rural economy and empowered farmers. He highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen agriculture and allied sectors through scientific interventions, infrastructure development, value-chain enhancement, technology adoption and sustainable rural enterprises.

"For India to emerge as a developed nation by 2047, our farmers must be empowered and our rural economy must become stronger and more self-reliant. Agriculture and allied sectors will continue to play a central role in driving inclusive growth and prosperity," the Minister said.

The Summit brought together a distinguished gathering of leaders and stakeholders including Sanjay Kumar Jha, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Dr Meenesh C. Shah, Chairman, National Dairy Development Board (NDDB); Manoj Kumar Dubey, Chairman & Managing Director, Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC); Dr Rajendra Prasad, General Manager, SIDBI; Gajendra Kumar, Joint General Manager (Marketing), KRIBHCO; senior policymakers, researchers, industry leaders and representatives of farmer organisations and cooperatives.

Addressing the Summit, Sanjay Kumar Jha, MP (Rajya Sabha) said, "The future of Indian agriculture lies in creating integrated and diversified rural economies. Agriculture, horticulture, dairy, fisheries, water conservation and rural enterprises must work together to generate sustainable livelihoods and strengthen rural India. The vision of Krishi Samridhi 2047 requires collaborative action from governments, institutions, industry and farmers alike."

Dr Meenesh C. Shah, Chairman, NDDB said, "India's agricultural future depends on creating strong and sustainable rural ecosystems where productivity, value addition, institutions and innovation work together. Cooperatives have demonstrated the power of collective action, and partnerships across sectors will be critical in building a resilient and globally competitive agricultural economy."

"As India advances towards Viksit Bharat 2047, investments in infrastructure, connectivity, logistics and financing will play a critical role in transforming rural economies. Sustainable agricultural growth requires long-term institutional support, and platforms such as this Summit help bring together diverse stakeholders committed to that objective," opined Manoj Kumar Dubey, CMD, IRFC.

Dr Rajendra Prasad, General Manager, SIDBI, said, "Innovation, entrepreneurship and access to finance are vital pillars of a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem. Strengthening agri-enterprises, startups, farmer producer organisations and rural businesses will not only create employment but also unlock new opportunities for value creation and inclusive growth across rural India."

Gajendra Kumar, Jt GM (Marketing), KRIBHCO, highlighted the need to make agriculture more attractive and future-ready for younger generations. He said, "One of the biggest challenges before Indian agriculture today is that many young people are moving away from farming. Rural India has been transformed by the communication revolution, and agriculture must evolve accordingly. At the same time, challenges such as climate change and excessive use of fertilisers require collective solutions driven by innovation, sustainability and responsible resource management."

Speaking on the occasion, Dr K.C. Ravi, Director General, Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards, said, "Krishi Samridhi 2047 is not merely a vision for agricultural growth; it is a roadmap for building resilience across the entire rural ecosystem. Sustainability, technology, water security, market access and farmer-centric policies must work together to create long-term prosperity and strengthen India's food and economic security."

"The journey towards Krishi Samridhi 2047 requires policy continuity, institutional innovation and stronger convergence between government, industry, academia and farming communities. Agriculture today is no longer confined to food production alone; it is intrinsically linked to livelihoods, sustainability, climate resilience, water security and rural economic growth. Building a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem will require integrated solutions that are scalable, inclusive and future-ready." said Dr Jayadev Sarangi, IAS (Retd.), Former Secretary, Government of Delhi and Goa.

Dr Navneet Anand, Executive Director, Sustainability Matters, said, "The future of Indian agriculture will be defined by partnerships. Governments, financial institutions, industry, academia, startups and farmers must collaborate to build an ecosystem that is productive, sustainable, climate-resilient and economically rewarding. This Summit seeks to catalyse those partnerships and contribute meaningfully to India's journey towards Krishi Samridhi 2047."

The Summit featured high-level discussions on climate-smart agriculture, digital innovation, sustainable farming systems, water stewardship, agricultural financing, cooperative development, rural entrepreneurship, natural farming, technology adoption and emerging opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

A major highlight of the event was the National Sustainable Agriculture Awards 2026, which recognised exemplary contributions by farmers, cooperatives, agribusinesses, startups, institutions, government agencies and development organisations from across the country for advancing sustainability, innovation and inclusive growth in agriculture and allied sectors.

The Summit was supported by IRFC, SIDBI, COMFED, OMFED, HURL, KRIBHCO and SIRA Seeds, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening India's agricultural ecosystem and advancing the vision of a resilient, self-reliant and prosperous rural economy.