A 24-year-old man from Moradabad, Azeem Ali, died from injuries in late July near Garhmukhteswar after Kanwariyas allegedly beat him following a crash. Authorities filed cases against four Kanwariyas for attempted murder and also registered a case against Azeem.

In a separate incident, footage showed Kanwariyas assaulting a CRPF jawan at Mirzapur railway station over a ticket dispute. Arrests were made only after videos of the incident spread online.

As the Kanwar Yatra continued, similar clashes were reported in Lucknow and Ghaziabad, where vehicles were damaged and routes were disrupted. Officials registered cases where evidence was available, while reactions online remained divided over policing and communal tensions.

The incidents have brought renewed attention to clashes linked to the ongoing pilgrimage, with police action and the handling of alleged violence coming under scrutiny as authorities continue to register cases based on available evidence.

Raghav Chadha, BJP Rajya Sabha MP, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday morning for a detailed discussion, marking another significant moment in his political journey after switching from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP.

Following the meeting, Chadha shared photographs of his encounter with Prime Minister Modi and expressed deep gratitude for the Prime Minister’s insights.

Chadha switched from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP in April 2026 along with other MPs. He now serves on parliamentary committees focused on solutions.

The meeting came after Prime Minister Modi hosted a breakfast with 45 NDA parliamentarians and took place amid the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Chadha’s meeting with Modi has drawn attention to his political journey from being a critic of the Prime Minister to becoming a colleague within the BJP-led political establishment.

The interaction underscores Chadha’s transition into his new political role following his April 2026 move from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP.

Prominent journalist Sudhir Chaudhary criticized Air India after sharing photos on X showing passengers facing an uncomfortable bus transfer experience amid rain in Delhi. He questioned the airline’s failure to ensure basic passenger dignity despite its modernization push.

Air India responded that the availability of aerobridges and parking positions at the airport is controlled by airport authorities based on operational requirements. The airline said it would review the feedback concerning passenger experiences during adverse weather conditions.

The incident has also drawn attention to the continued use of remote parking stands at busy Indian airports. Aviation expert Ajay Awtaney said remote stands are common at congested airports as they help avoid operational delays.

Air India, this is not acceptable service.
On my recent Delhi-Mumbai journey, and again on the return, passengers were made to use buses instead of an aerobridge. The buses had little or no effective air-conditioning.
At Delhi, it was raining heavily, yet passengers had to walk… pic.twitter.com/uDLAacIpkN

— Sudhir Chaudhary (@sudhirchaudhary) August 8, 2026

However, a 2018 government circular prioritizes the use of aerobridges for passenger comfort when they are available. The contrast between operational requirements and passenger convenience has placed renewed focus on how travellers are handled during difficult weather conditions.

With Sudhir Chaudhary’s photographs bringing the issue into public attention and Air India responding to the criticism, the episode has highlighted the importance of passenger comfort and dignity during airport transfers, particularly when weather conditions make movement between aircraft and terminals more difficult.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a breakfast meeting for newly elected Lok Sabha MPs from the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at his official residence in New Delhi on Friday morning, bringing together members of the alliance, including recent joiners from the Trinamool Congress and the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde.

During the meeting, Modi urged the newly elected MPs to prioritise public service and grassroots engagement rather than spending time within Delhi’s elite circles. He also stressed the importance of disciplined conduct, particularly amid disruptions in the House.

Eknath Shinde joined some Shiv Sena MPs at the meeting. Discussions also covered national development, the North-East and the responsible use of social media to engage with young people.

The participants described the meeting as positive, with the interaction aimed at strengthening unity within the NDA ahead of the Monsoon Session.

Prime Minister Modi addressed graduates at the 57th Convocation Ceremony of IIT Delhi, presenting top medals, including the President’s Gold Medal, to outstanding students and inaugurating Param Pragya, a new AI high-performance computing facility at the Sonipat campus.

Param Pragya is aimed at advancing research in artificial intelligence, data science and computing, adding a major new facility to IIT Delhi’s research capabilities.

During his address, Modi offered graduates practical advice, urging them to thank their teachers and continue learning as they encounter new opportunities. He also encouraged them to embrace family-first milestones while pursuing ambitious goals, including building rockets or drones in India.

Delighted to join the Convocation Ceremony of IIT Delhi. My best wishes to all the graduating students.@iitdelhi https://t.co/Lhuq4yUzJW

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 8, 2026

Modi called for greater gender balance among medal winners and highlighted the role of young innovators in advancing self-reliance across sectors ranging from chips to ships.

The 57th Convocation Ceremony combined recognition of academic excellence with a focus on research, innovation and continued learning, while the inauguration of Param Pragya underscored the growing importance of AI, data science and high-performance computing.

Quint Digital Limited (QDL), India’s leading listed digital media-tech company positioned at the intersection of media, technology, hospitality and AI, delivered its strongest-ever consolidated first-quarter performance in Q1 FY2026–27, with revenue from operations rising to Rs. 35 crore, representing a 336% year-on-year increase over Q1 FY2025–26.

During the quarter, QDL successfully repositioned itself as a global Media-Tech and AI-powered platform, expanding beyond digital publishing into high-growth physical retail, commerce and experiential ventures.

Following the successful launch of the media vertical of Time Out India, QDL is advancing towards the launch of India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi. The market is targeted to open in early Q3 FY2026–27 and is expected to open before Diwali, marking a significant milestone in the company’s experiential media and hospitality growth strategy.

QDL reported an adjusted Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs. 4.93 crore for Q1 FY2026–27. The adjusted PBT is calculated after adjustment of interest cost and non-cash expenses, including depreciation and stock option charge. It also includes an adjustment for one-time pre-operating expenses of Rs. 1.04 crore related to the launch of Time Out Media and Time Out Markets.

The company said it remains on track to achieve its strongest full-year operating performance to date.

Quintype continued to serve as the Group’s key growth engine, delivering robust operational and financial performance while reinforcing its leadership in Media-Tech. Quintype’s Media-Tech operations recorded consolidated revenue of Rs. 33 crore during the quarter, highlighting the strength and scalability of the business.

QDL is also entering the high-growth, scalable digital media-led commerce vertical, which is expected to significantly increase operating revenue and create a strong new growth engine for the company.

The company further strengthened its strategic investment in Lee Enterprises. QDL increased its stake to 14.59% through the acquisition of additional shares at USD 3.25 per share in Q4 FY2025–26. The stake was valued at USD 29 million based on the closing price of USD 8.96 per share as of June 30, 2026.

QDL recognized a mark-to-market gain of Rs. 10.58 crore on its investment in Lee Enterprises during the current quarter, taking the overall mark-to-market gain to Rs. 129 crore.

The mark-to-market gains represent unrealized gains arising from QDL’s shareholding in Lee Enterprises, with the reported value subject to fluctuations based on movements in the underlying share price of Lee Enterprises on the NASDAQ.

Lee Enterprises’ ownership of BLOX Digital also creates significant strategic synergy opportunities for QDL, strengthening its ability to expand its footprint across the global media technology ecosystem. The partnership enhances QDL’s long-term growth potential through the joint scaling of AI-powered newsroom solutions, enterprise digital publishing platforms and next-generation media technologies.

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) (QUINT, BSE 539515) is India’s leading digital and media-tech, AI-focused company. QDL creates innovative ideas in the digital space with cutting-edge technology and engaging formats to propel meaningful change.

QDL holds a significant minority stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: “LEE”), a leading American media company that provides trusted local news and advertising services across 72 markets in 25 American states through nearly 350 digital platforms and print publications.

QDL’s conglomerate offers various solutions ranging from news to tech innovations, recently strengthened by the acquisition of ListenFirst Media, a premium social media and digital analytics platform headquartered in New York, which enhances QDL’s capabilities in AI-driven audience insights and engagement strategies.

Its flagship platform, The Quint, launched in 2015, delivers trusted, innovative journalism, while Quintype’s AI-powered editorial platform enables seamless content creation for over 300 publishers worldwide.

QDL’s suite of brands also includes The News Minute, known for independent journalism from Southern India; Youth Ki Awaaz, a citizen media platform that amplifies the voices of India’s youth; and Kisan India, dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Indian agriculture.

Quint Digital Limited is listed on the BSE Limited. The equity shares of Quint Digital Limited have been admitted to the permitted to trade category of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

One year after admitting its first pupils, Shrewsbury International School India has completed its founding year at its 150-acre campus outside Bhopal, marking the first fully residential campus established outside Britain by Shrewsbury School UK, founded by Royal Charter in 1552, and its first campus in South Asia.

The school has spent its first year building, largely from first principles, the academic, sporting, artistic and pastoral life intended to shape the pupils who follow its inaugural cohort.

The first cohort followed a programme centred on the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level curriculum, alongside more than twenty sports. The campus includes India's first on-campus facilities for indoor rowing, fencing and scuba diving, while a full pastoral programme has been delivered across two boarding houses.

Solar power and water-harvesting infrastructure were incorporated into the campus from its earliest planning stages. A tree-planting programme across the grounds is also continuing into the school's second year.

In June 2026, Shrewsbury International School India opened the Sidney Centre for the Performing Arts, its purpose-built home for drama and music. The opening was marked by the school's first Speech Day, with Padma Shri-winning film critic and author Bhawana Somaaya joining as Guest of Honour.

Somaaya spoke to pupils about the arts as a discipline of truth-telling and urged them to question their own convictions as rigorously as they would defend them.

That same week, the school held its first Callover, the centuries-old Shrewsbury tradition in which every pupil's name is read aloud before the Headmaster at the close of the academic year. The tradition was observed for the first time on Indian soil.

The school's first year also involved creating traditions without an established template to follow. Dominic Tomalin, Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury International School India, said: "There is no 'the way we've always done it' to fall back on in Year One. Every assembly, every house tradition, every small ritual that will one day feel timeless to a child in these classrooms had to be imagined, tested, and earned before it could become part of who we are."

Tomalin credited the school's founding pupils with establishing its tone, saying: "They arrived with nothing to go on but belief - courage, commitment, and a trust in something bigger than themselves, before there was any proof it would work."

Shrewsbury International School India has deliberately drawn on two traditions in shaping its first year: Shrewsbury's own, running back four centuries, and India's Gurukul model of educating the whole person rather than the mind alone.

These traditions are brought together under what the school terms its Salopian Virtues - Wisdom, Integrity, Courage, Kindness, Self-Mastery and Spirit - which inform both its daily and academic life.

Shrewsbury India has this month welcomed its second cohort of pupils, while admissions remain open for families considering a residential education of this kind.

Reflecting on the year now closed, Tomalin writes: "If we continue as we began, we are a legacy school in the making."

Shrewsbury International School India is located on a 150-acre campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and is the first international campus of Shrewsbury School UK, founded in 1552, outside the United Kingdom.

For further information, visit www.shrewsburyindia.in.

Ampcus Cyber successfully hosted the GRC India AI Conclave 2026 on 7th August at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, government officials, regulators, cybersecurity leaders, CXOs, technology experts and industry practitioners to deliberate on the future of AI governance, cyber resilience, governance, risk and compliance (GRC), and digital trust in India.

Held under the theme “Empowering a Secure and AI-Driven Digital India,” the day-long conclave featured keynote addresses, panel discussions and expert-led conversations on India’s evolving AI governance framework, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, financial-sector resilience, cloud security, AI-enabled compliance and emerging cyber threats.

The discussions highlighted the growing need for governance frameworks that support innovation while ensuring security, privacy and regulatory compliance. Leaders from government, regulatory bodies, financial services, technology and cybersecurity participated in the conclave, with keynote sessions featuring experts from CERT-In, MeitY, Digi Yatra Foundation, STPI, SEBI, NPCI, Discover Financial Services, Uber and other leading organisations.

Sessions focused on AI governance, cyber resilience, continuous compliance, third-party risk, payment security, digital trust and data protection in the AI era.

Speaking at the conclave, Deep Chanda, CEO at Ampcus Cyber, said, “The conversations at the GRC India AI Conclave reaffirmed that India’s AI future will be shaped not by technology alone, but by collaboration between policymakers, regulators, industry, academia, and cybersecurity experts. The exchange of ideas and practical insights demonstrated a shared commitment to building AI ecosystems that are secure, trustworthy, and innovation-led. As AI becomes increasingly integral to India’s digital economy, forums like these play a vital role in aligning governance, resilience, and responsible adoption. This is only the beginning of a much larger journey to ensure India leads the global AI landscape with confidence, accountability, and trust.”

A major highlight of the conclave was the Make in India launch of Ampcus Cyber’s indigenous AI-powered ComplyX portfolio, featuring three next-generation cybersecurity platforms designed to help organisations modernise governance and strengthen cyber resilience.

The company unveiled GRACE, an AI-powered Governance, Risk and Compliance platform that streamlines audits, automates compliance and delivers real-time visibility into enterprise risk. It also introduced MIRROR, an autonomous continuous penetration testing platform providing exploit-validated visibility into security vulnerabilities across digital environments, and WIZARD, an AI-driven Third-Party Risk Management platform enabling continuous vendor risk monitoring through intelligent automation.

Throughout the conclave, experts highlighted the need for responsible AI adoption, stronger cybersecurity, continuous compliance and public-private collaboration to build a secure digital future. The GRC India AI Conclave 2026 reaffirmed Ampcus Cyber’s commitment to advancing India’s digital transformation through indigenous innovation, trusted cybersecurity solutions and collaborative dialogue, while accelerating secure AI adoption, stronger governance and digital trust.

Zorcha, the Meta-verified Instagram DM automation platform trusted by creators and businesses worldwide, has announced that its core Instagram DM automation features are now available completely free.

The announcement marks a significant shift in the creator technology landscape. Until now, professional Instagram DM automation has largely been limited to paid software, preventing millions of creators, entrepreneurs and small businesses from using automation to grow their audience and generate revenue.

With the launch, every Instagram creator can start automating unlimited conversations at zero cost through Zorcha's official Meta API integration.

“Instagram has democratised distribution for everyone. Reaching millions of people was once a privilege only big corporations had but now anyone with a phone and internet connection can do that. Instagram has become one of the most important business platforms in the world, yet automation has remained inaccessible for many because of software costs. By making our core DM automation platform free, we're removing that barrier entirely. Our goal is simple—to help every creator and business win the attention game,” said Archit Mehrotra, CEO of Zorcha.

The announcement also reflects Zorcha's broader vision of becoming the operating system for Instagram growth. Beyond DM automation, the platform continues to expand into AI-powered chats, digital products, content scheduling, brand collabs and complex lead generation chat bots, with the goal of becoming a single platform for everything creators need to grow on Instagram.

Since its launch, Zorcha has rapidly grown into one of the fastest-growing Instagram automation platforms, helping more than 100,000 creators and businesses automate millions of conversations using Meta's official APIs.

The free plan is available immediately. For more information, visit www.zorcha.com.

Zorcha is an automation platform built to help creators and businesses win the attention game. The platform enables users to automate Instagram conversations, engage potential customers instantly, generate and qualify leads, and drive conversions through intelligent messaging journeys. Zorcha is an official Meta Verified Tech Provider and is used by more than 100,000 creators and businesses worldwide.

The Reserve Bank of India’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% has been welcomed by real estate developers and industry leaders, who said the move would provide greater stability to the housing and commercial realty sectors. Stable interest rates are expected to give homebuyers greater confidence, support investment decisions and help developers plan future projects with more certainty.

Real estate developers said the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% has strengthened confidence among stakeholders. Predictable borrowing costs are seen as supporting long-term financial planning for homebuyers while providing developers with greater clarity for project execution and new investments.

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “The decision by the RBI to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% would bring much-needed stability to the housing market, especially for first-time home purchasers. Predictable borrowing costs make long-term financial planning more practical and help buyers take ownership decisions with greater assurance.”

Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, said, “India's resilient economic outlook continues to provide a strong foundation for real estate, and the RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% adds further certainty to that trajectory. A measured monetary policy encourages long-term capital deployment across residential and commercial assets alike. This approach is expected to deepen investor participation and sustain the sector's growth over the coming quarters.”

Tejpreet Singh Gill, Managing Director, Gillco Group, said, “The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% provides much-needed stability for the housing market. With home loan rates expected to remain stable, buyers can plan their purchases with greater confidence, while developers can continue investing in project execution and future developments.”

Manoj Garg, CEO, Northwind Estates, said, “If 2025 was defined by successive reductions in interest rates, 2026 is increasingly emerging as a year of stability. The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% reinforces a policy environment that allows both homebuyers and developers to plan with greater certainty.”

Kushagr Ansal, Director, Ansal Housing, said, “Long-term homeownership decisions are closely linked with financial certainty, making the RBI's decision to retain the repo rate at 5.25% a welcome development for the residential market. The current interest rate environment allows housing demand to progress steadily while giving the sector greater visibility for future growth.”

Dr. Annkit A. Jayant, CEO, HP Global Infrra, said, “The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% is a positive step that reinforces stability in the housing market. For emerging destinations like Haridwar, where demand is increasingly driven by end-users, retirees, second-home buyers, and wellness-focused investors, a stable interest rate environment enhances purchase confidence and supports long-term investment decisions.”

Sanchit Jain, Director, Sarvottam India, said, “The RBI's decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is an encouraging development for the real estate sector. It will strengthen the confidence of prospective homebuyers and enable developers to move forward with new projects with greater clarity. Housing demand continues to rise across several cities, including the NCR, driven by improved road connectivity, metro expansion, and other infrastructure developments.”

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Spectrum Metro, said, “Organised retail benefits greatly from a financing environment that offers clarity and consistency, making the RBI's decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% particularly encouraging. Expansion plans by leading brands, stronger leasing activity and growing consumer spending continue to shape quality retail destinations.”

The continued development of infrastructure, along with the robustness of end-user demand, was also stated to provide a sound base for the future. The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% has therefore been viewed positively by real estate leaders, who said policy stability can support homebuyer confidence, investment decisions and development activity across residential and commercial segments.

Sentosa GrillFest 2026, Singapore’s beachfront cookout supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, will return to Siloso Beach for its ninth edition from 23 July to 16 August 2026, bringing 42 vendors across five zones, including 18 new names, alongside returning favourites and new dining concepts.

Since its debut in 2017, Sentosa GrillFest has welcomed close to 800,000 visitors. This year’s edition will introduce Chef’s Grill, the festival’s first eight-course omakase-inspired beachfront dining experience, co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association. The festival will also feature Marketplace by Indoguna, Sunset Lounge by Asahi, expanded sheltered capacity, beachfront seating and new ways to experience the festival by the sea.

Chef’s Grill will be held in an air-conditioned tent featuring premium chinaware and will offer diners a close look at live-fire techniques from a curated roster of Singapore chefs. Three mainstay vendors, Sentosa Golf Club, R&B Grill Bar and ASAP & CO, will anchor the experience across all four weekends, while a rotating guest vendor slot will introduce a new vendor each week.

Chef’s Grill will also serve as the closing platform for the inaugural Singapore Chef Festival, organised in partnership with the Singapore Chefs’ Association, marking Sentosa GrillFest’s growing role in Singapore’s culinary calendar. Menu and pricing details are available at www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

Marketplace returns this year in an elevated format developed in collaboration with Indoguna, a leading premium food importer and distributor in Singapore. The concept will place greater focus on local sourcing and sustainable produce, with a curated selection of ingredients intended to support responsible food choices without compromising on quality.

A central chiller display will allow guests to browse and select fresh meats, seafood, vegetables and gourmet items before watching them cooked to order at themed grill and serve stalls. The experience will showcase live-fire cooking through grilling, smoking and searing. A retail section will also offer artisanal products, sauces, spices and ready-to-cook selections for guests to take home.

Marketplace will additionally feature an aura-reading photobooth for guests looking to capture memories from the festival.

As the sun sets, Sunset Lounge by Asahi will offer a dedicated beachfront bar experience designed for golden hour gatherings. Positioned as a standalone wind-down space between the afternoon and evening sessions, the lounge will feature DJ programming and live band performances. Further programming details are available at www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

The festival’s returning Local Grills, International Grills and Beachside Grills zones will feature a wide range of vendors.

Local Grills will again feature homegrown favourites Slurp Your Oysters and Craft’ B, both longstanding fixtures of Sentosa GrillFest. Craft’ B, known for its Netflix-featured grass-fed ribeye, will return alongside Slurp Your Oysters, which serves freshly shucked oysters sourced directly from Murotsu Bay in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. DAMN, winner of Sentosa GrillFest’s People’s Choice Award in 2025, will also return with its signature dry-aged meats.

International Grills will take guests across different cuisines, from Korean BBQ at Hanok Kimchi to the bold smoky flavours of BBQ Box. New entrants this year include Umi Matsuri, bringing Japanese robatayaki grilling to the beachfront, and 8 Degree Taiwanese Bistro, serving the Taiwanese night market classic of Taiwan sausage with sticky rice.

Beachside Grills will offer open-flame cooking along the waterfront against the backdrop of Siloso Beach. New this year is ChillBro, which will serve grilled banana topped with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sauce. Returning favourites include Jett BBQ, known for its show-stopping dinosaur ribs, and Smok Hous, known for its Texas-style barbecue.

Live entertainment will also feature throughout the festival. On the first Sunday, 26 July, ZIP4, a Korean jazz band, will perform at 7pm in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore. The full list of participating vendors is available at www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

Sentosa GrillFest 2026 will also mark a significant step in the festival’s sustainability efforts. For the first time, the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting will be powered by battery and solar energy, reducing reliance on conventional power sources and reducing the festival’s carbon footprint.

The festival will continue efforts to reduce single-use disposables across its grounds, with all vendors required to use compostable packaging and cutlery in line with Sentosa’s Disposables Policy.

Accessibility measures will include dedicated beach tracks for wheelchair users and families with strollers, along with priority seating for guests with mobility needs throughout the festival grounds.

Sentosa GrillFest 2026 will be held from 4.00pm to 10.30pm at Siloso Beachfront. The festival dates are 23, 24, 25 and 26 July; 31 July, 1 and 2 August; 7, 8 and 9 August; and 14, 15 and 16 August.

For more information on Sentosa GrillFest 2026, visitors can refer to www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest, as well as Sentosa’s Facebook, Instagram and TikTok channels.

Sentosa, where discovery never ends, is Asia’s leading leisure destination and Singapore’s premier island resort getaway, located within 15 minutes from the central business and shopping districts. The island resort is managed by Sentosa Development Corporation, which works with various stakeholders in overseeing property investments, attractions development, operation of various leisure offerings and management of the residential precinct on the island.

The 500-hectare island resort is home to themed attractions, award-winning spa retreats, lush rainforests, golden sandy beaches, resort accommodations, world-renowned golf courses, a deep-water yachting marina and luxurious residences. Sentosa is also home to Singapore’s first integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa, which operates Southeast Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park.

Situated on the eastern end of Sentosa Island, Sentosa Cove is an exclusive waterfront residential enclave with more than 2,000 homes, quayside restaurants, retail and specialty shops. The island is also home to Sentosa Golf Club and its two golf courses, The Serapong and The Tanjong. Sentosa Golf Club has hosted high-profile professional and amateur tournaments, including the Singapore Open and HSBC Women’s World Championship, welcoming international star players and world-class golf professionals.

Sentosa continues to welcome a growing number of local and international guests each year and remains an integral part of Singapore’s goal to be a global destination to work, live and play.

Sentosa Development Corporation was established on 1 September 1972 as a Statutory Board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry. As a master planner, its charter since inception has been to oversee the development, management, marketing and promotion of Sentosa as a resort destination for locals and tourists.

Sentosa Development Corporation wholly owns its subsidiaries Sentosa Cove Resort Management Pte Ltd and Sentosa Golf Club. It also owns the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network, managed by Mount Faber Leisure Group Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary operating as an autonomous commercial arm.

The Singapore Tourism Board is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, it shapes Singapore’s tourism landscape and brings the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.

The third edition of the Nykaa Best in Beauty (NBiB) Awards has captured the changing choices, aspirations and preferences of India’s beauty consumers, with more than 3.2 million votes cast across 60 award categories and 316 nominees spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, wellness, personal care, bath & body, gifting and beauty tools.

The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards 2026 has evolved beyond an annual awards programme into one of India’s largest consumer-led beauty awards, offering a benchmark for what Indian consumers are buying, loving and trusting. The final winners were determined through a combination of consumer participation and evaluation by an esteemed jury, bringing consumer conviction and industry expertise together.

The winners reflect an increasingly informed, ingredient-conscious and globally connected Indian beauty consumer. Performance-backed efficacy is influencing purchase decisions, prestige beauty continues to gain ground, and homegrown innovators are earning recognition alongside global brands. Categories including Best Homegrown Beauty Brand, Cult Classic, Iconic New Launch of the Year, New & Now and Brand Campaign of the Year recognised products, brands, innovations and cultural moments that resonated with Indian beauty consumers.

The jury featured Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty; Nykaa’s brand icon Sharvari; make-up & hair artist Elton Fernandez; make-up artist, educator and founder of Mokae Beauty Sandhya Shekhar; hair expert Hiral Bhatia; dermatologist Dr. Aanchal Panth (MBBS, MD); founder of NAKED Coffee and luxury content creator Radhika Seth; creator Ankush Bahuguna; beauty creator Tarini Peshawaria; and Nandini Bhalla, Editor at The Word Magazine.

Commenting on the awards, Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, “The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have evolved into more than an annual celebration of product excellence. It reflects the changing aspirations of India’s beauty consumers and the innovations redefining the industry. This year’s winners show that consumers are rewarding efficacy, authenticity and innovation in equal measure, while homegrown and global brands continue to raise the bar together. We’re proud that NBIB has become a platform where millions of consumers and industry experts collectively define the benchmark for beauty excellence in India.”

The winners also highlight several trends shaping the next wave of Indian beauty. Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Concealer and Sky High Mascara, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser reflect the emphasis on products that consistently deliver results. K-Beauty brands Beauty of Joseon, LANEIGE, COSRX, TIRTIR and Dr. Althea emerged as standout winners across multiple categories, reinforcing the growing influence of Korean beauty across skincare and makeup.

Barrier-care favourites from CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, TONYMOLY and Dot & Key reflect the increasing focus on ingredient-led, skin-first beauty. Homegrown brands including Kay Beauty, Maison Moi, Foxtale, WishCare and indē wild also won alongside global beauty icons.

The awards further highlighted the growing demand for hybrid beauty products. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation, Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer, NYX and e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter reflect the demand for makeup products that work like skincare.

Luxury beauty also featured prominently, with brands and products from Charlotte Tilbury, NARS, Yves Saint Laurent, Estée Lauder, CHANEL, Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Dyson and Jo Malone London among the recognised names.

The complete list of Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards 2026 winners spans makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrances, bodycare, Nykaa Man, wellness, gifting and special awards.

In makeup, the Blush award went to Nykaa Cosmetics Whipped Blush Pot, while Pixi By Petra On The Glow Blush Ruby won Blush (Luxury). Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer won Concealer, and Lakmē 9 to 5 Eyeconic Liquid Eyeliner - Intense Black won Eyeliner.

Kay Beauty Eyeshadow Palette won Eyeshadow, while L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation won Foundation. NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation were the winners in Foundation (Luxury).

e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter won Highlighter, while Renee Cosmetics Midnight Kohl Kajal won Kajal. Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Candy Glaze won Lip Gloss, and Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Tint and ETUDE Dear Darling Water Gel Lip and Cheek Tint Lipstick won Lip Tint.

Kay Beauty Hydra Creme Lipstick won Lipstick. M.A.C MACximal Mini Matte Lipstick and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution - Pillow Talk Medium won Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick (Luxury). Maybelline New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick won Liquid Lipstick.

Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara won Mascara, Nykaa Cosmetics Creme Nail Enamel won Nail Polish, and e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer won Primer. Kay Beauty Setting Loose Powder won Compact & Loose Powder, while Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish - Medium won Compact & Loose Powder (Luxury).

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray won Setting Spray. Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow All-In-One Tinted Moisturizer won Skin Tint & Tinted Moisturizer. TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Mini Cushion Foundation and NYX Professional Makeup Lip I.V. Gloss Stain won Makeup (Trending).

In skincare, Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Youth Power Creme Moisturizer won Ageless Beauty. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum won Eye Cream, while Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser won Face Wash & Cleanser.

LANEIGE Lip Glowy Balm - Berry won Lip Balm & Mask, and Bioderma Micellar Water Sensibio H2O won Makeup Remover. Foxtale De-Tan Skin Radiance Mask won Face Mask.

Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Moisturizer won Moisturizer (Luxury). CeraVe Moisturizer Cream For Dry Skin and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Light Face Moisturizer won Moisturizer.

LANEIGE Bouncy And Firm Sleeping Mask won Night Cream & Sleeping Mask. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum and Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum won Serum (Luxury).

COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin 96 Power Essence won Serum. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sunscreen Rice + Probiotics and Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen won Sunscreen.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner and TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner won Toner. Celimax The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster and Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream won Korean Beauty (Trending).

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser and La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume won Skin (Trending).

In haircare, Kérastase Discipline Fluidealiste Shampoo won Shampoo. WishCare Hair Growth Serum Concentrate won Hair Serum, while Dove Peptide Bond Strength Hair Treatment Mask won Hair Mask.

L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Gloss Conditioner won Conditioner. indē wild Champi Hair Oil won Hair Oil, and Streax Professional Argan Secrets Hair Colour & Developer won Hair Colour.

Moxie Beauty On The Fly Hair Finishing Stick won Hair Styling. L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Growth Serum won Hair (Trending), while Dyson Airwrap I.D. Multi Styler & Dryer won Appliance.

In fragrances, Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum won Women’s Fragrance (Luxury), while Yves Saint Laurent MYSLF Eau De Parfum won Men’s Fragrance (Luxury). Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist won Body Mist, and Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Eau De Parfum won Popular Fragrance.

In bodycare, Chemist At Play Exfoliating Body Wash won Shower Gel & Body Wash. Plum BodyLovin Vanilla Caramello Lotion won Body Lotion, while Dove Exfoliating Body Polish - Pomegranate Seeds And Shea Butter won Body Scrub & Exfoliant.

Be Bodywise 4% AHA BHA Underarm Roll won Deodorant & Roll-On, and Gillette Venus won Body Grooming.

In Nykaa Man, Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum and Paco Rabanne 1 Million Elixir Parfum Intense won Favourite Men’s Brand.

In wellness, OZiva Phyto Ceramides+ Collagen won Beauty Booster, while Wellbeing Nutrition Slow Multivitamin + Omega 3 won Daily Nutrition.

In gifting, Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede won Most Loved Gifting Brand (Luxury), while Nykaa Wanderlust French Lavender Getaway Gift Set won Most Loved Gifting Brand.

The Special Awards recognised CHANEL as Iconic New Launch of the Year (Brand), while Nykaa Cosmetics Matte to Last Lipstick won Iconic New Launch of the Year (Product). M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid Foundation won Cult Classic.

NYX Professional Makeup won New and Now (Brand), while Nexxus Promend Oil Resurrection Hair Serum won New and Now (Product). LoveChild Masaba Skip Everything Blurring Serum Skin Tint SPF 20 won Multi-use makeup product.

Maison Moi won Best Homegrown Beauty (Brand), while L’Oréal Paris - Cannes Film Festival won Brand Campaign of the Year.

With a community of over 60 million consumers, a curated assortment spanning 4,000+ brands and 3 lakh+ products, Nykaa continues to shape how India discovers, experiences and shops beauty. The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have become an annual barometer of India’s beauty evolution, reflecting the products loved by consumers as well as the ideas and innovations shaping the future of beauty.

The complete list of winning products is available on nykaa.com, with all award-winning products available for purchase on Nykaa.com, allowing consumers to explore the products recognised through the awards.

Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE) will bring its Multi-City Property Showcase to Noida on August 9, 2026, following the success of its property showcases in Gurugram and Mumbai. The one-day event will provide homebuyers and investors an opportunity to explore 15 premium residential projects across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Gurugram and Howrah under one roof.

The showcase will feature a curated portfolio of premium apartments, luxury villas and lifestyle plots, with prices starting from Rs. 60 lakh*. The event is designed to simplify the home-buying process by allowing visitors to compare multiple projects during a single visit.

Visitors will also have access to exclusive event-only offers, home loan assistance and personalised consultations with SPRE's sales experts.

Ms. Rima Kirtikar, Chief Marketing Officer, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, said, "The enthusiastic response to our property showcases in Gurugram and Mumbai reaffirmed that today's homebuyers value the convenience of exploring multiple destinations and asset classes under one roof. We are delighted to bring this experience to Noida, a market with a discerning buyer base that actively evaluates investment opportunities across India's leading residential destinations. Through this showcase, we aim to simplify the home-buying journey by presenting a diverse portfolio that caters to varied aspirations and budgets while delivering the trust and quality associated with the Shapoorji Pallonji legacy."

The Noida showcase is expected to attract both end-users and investors seeking to diversify their real estate portfolios across high-growth markets. Visitors will be able to evaluate projects across established metropolitan centres and emerging residential destinations, while receiving personalised guidance on pricing, financing and investment potential.

Along with project presentations, the event will include dedicated consultation zones, exclusive event-only offers and limited-period benefits. The platform will allow buyers to discover, compare and invest in SPRE's residential developments.

The event will be held on August 9, 2026, at Fortune Hotel By ITC, Sector 27, Noida. The portfolio will comprise 15 premium residential projects across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Gurugram and Howrah, with prices starting from Rs. 60 lakh*.

Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate is a well-regarded, reputed player in the Indian real estate sector owing to its cutting-edge design innovation, construction quality and architectural excellence. It constitutes a significant segment of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, an enormous multi-business conglomerate.

The group has more than 160 years of legacy that bridges the earliest celebrated structures of India and the modern marvels. SPRE has made inroads into most Indian cities, including the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune, Bengaluru, Gurugram, Howrah and Kolkata, with developments ranging from luxury apartments and opulent residences to aspirational homes for mid-income homebuyers, as well as one of the largest mass housing projects in India.

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) has launched its Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm.) programme under the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences after receiving approval from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), with admissions for the inaugural 2026–27 academic session now open for aspiring students.

The introduction of the B.Pharm. programme marks a significant milestone in the University's expansion of professional education in the healthcare domain. Backed by approval from the apex statutory body for pharmacy education in India, the programme is designed to prepare competent pharmacy professionals with scientific knowledge, practical skills, research aptitude, and ethical values to meet the evolving requirements of the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at MUJ offers state-of-the-art infrastructure to support experiential learning and research. Students will have access to advanced laboratories, smart classrooms, seminar halls, modern research facilities, and the University's academic ecosystem. The programme is further supported by Manipal University Jaipur's focus on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, industry engagement, and holistic student development.

Drawing on the Manipal Group's distinguished legacy of over 70 years in healthcare, education, and research, the programme aims to nurture future-ready professionals capable of contributing to the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare institutions, regulatory organizations, clinical research, academia, and entrepreneurship.

The curriculum has been designed to combine strong theoretical foundations with laboratory training, industry exposure, and research-oriented learning. It aims to ensure that graduates are prepared for emerging opportunities in the rapidly growing pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors.

The University believes that the new programme will provide aspiring students with a platform to build careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality assurance, drug development, clinical research, hospital pharmacy, regulatory affairs, public health, and healthcare innovation.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, said, "The launch of the PCI-approved B.Pharm. programme is another important step in strengthening our commitment to excellence in healthcare education. With the Manipal legacy, world-class infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a research-driven learning environment, we are confident that our students will emerge as competent professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to society and the healthcare ecosystem."

The University has invited aspiring students interested in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare, research, and innovation to apply for the programme. Admissions for the 2026–27 academic session are currently underway.

Manipal University Jaipur is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities, known for academic excellence, innovation, research, and industry-oriented education. Established in 2011 as part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), MUJ has emerged as a destination for higher education, offering a learning ecosystem focused on knowledge, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Accredited with an A+ Grade by NAAC, MUJ offers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programmes across Engineering, Management, Law, Design, Architecture, Commerce, Arts, Science, Humanities, Journalism, and Allied Health Sciences. The University emphasizes experiential learning, interdisciplinary education, research excellence, innovation, and global engagement.

With a student community representing almost every state and union territory of India, along with several international students, MUJ promotes diversity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange. Through its commitment to quality education, impactful research, sustainability, and social responsibility, Manipal University Jaipur continues to empower future-ready professionals and responsible global citizens.

The launch of the PCI-approved B.Pharm. programme adds pharmaceutical education to MUJ's academic offerings and provides aspiring students an opportunity to pursue professional education in pharmaceutical sciences during the 2026–27 academic session.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GHCL Limited, one of India’s leading chemical companies, to develop a Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)-based solution for real-time monitoring of the Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of carbon-based fuels.

Mr Sanjay Gupta, Vice President (Commercial) at GHCL, participated in discussions with the MAHE team and exchanged the signed MoU with Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE.

The collaboration will combine advanced spectroscopy with artificial intelligence and machine learning to develop a rapid, on-site system for fuel quality assessment. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and industrial applications by replacing conventional, time-intensive fuel-testing methods with a data-driven solution that can support proactive operational decision-making.

GHCL, one of India’s leading chemical manufacturing companies, relies extensively on carbon-based fuels for energy generation and process heating requirements. Recognising the importance of fuel quality for operational efficiency and cost competitiveness, the company is working to strengthen fuel quality assurance through faster and more reliable real-time monitoring systems.

Carbon-based fuels account for a significant share of operational costs in energy-intensive industries. Conventional quality verification depends on laboratory analysis, which can result in delays and restrict timely corrective action. Through the partnership, GHCL Limited and the Manipal Institute of Applied Physics (MIAP), MAHE, aim to develop an intelligent monitoring system capable of providing immediate insights into fuel quality at the point of receipt. The system is intended to improve operational efficiency, enhance quality assurance and optimise fuel utilisation.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr Mayuresh Hede, Operations Head, Sutrapada Plant, GHCL Limited, said, “This partnership reflects GHCL's commitment to adopting advanced technologies that improve operational excellence and sustainability. By integrating real-time analytics into fuel quality management, we aim to strengthen process efficiency while reducing uncertainties associated with conventional testing methods. We believe this initiative has the potential to set new benchmarks for quality assurance in industrial operations.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “This project exemplifies how academic research can directly address complex industrial challenges. By combining LIBS technology with artificial intelligence and machine learning, we are developing an innovative solution with significant scientific and commercial potential. The collaboration also provides an excellent platform for translational research that can benefit multiple energy-intensive sectors.”

The project is being led on behalf of MAHE by Dr Unnikrishnan V. K. from the Manipal Institute of Applied Physics as the Principal Investigator. Prof. Karunakar Kotegar, Pro Vice Chancellor - Technology and Science, assured full support from MAHE.

Dr Sajan Daniel George, Director of Manipal Institute of Applied Physics, and Dr Harishkumar, Director, Corporate Relations, MAHE, were also present during the event.

The collaboration also aims to generate intellectual property and develop scalable technology solutions with commercial potential. Upon successful implementation, the LIBS-based monitoring system could serve as a replicable model for industries that rely on carbon-based fuels, strengthening the innovation ecosystem and demonstrating the value of industry-academia partnerships.

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 3rd 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.

GHCL Limited is the largest manufacturer of soda ash at a single location in the country. Soda Ash (Anhydrous Sodium Carbonate) is a major raw material for the detergent & glass industries and Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda). It is an important raw material for solar glass and lithium batteries as well. The company has a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant of soda ash at Sutrapada, Gujarat, with an installed production capacity of 1.2 million tons per annum. Sustainability is a core element of business strategy as defined by the ‘GHCL Way’ with its four pillars, i.e. Responsible Stewardship, Social Inclusiveness, promoting relationships and adding value. GHCL Limited remains committed to working closely with stakeholders for promoting the agenda of sustainability underpinning on the core values of Respect, Trust, Ownership and Integrated Teamwork.

Ai+ Smartphone has launched Project Trust+, a five-year initiative aimed at creating what the company describes as India’s safest smartphone ecosystem through long-term community engagement. Under the programme, the company has committed Rs. 20 crore annually for the next five years, taking the total commitment to Rs. 100 crore, to encourage the technology and developer community to strengthen security and build trust across its devices.

Through Project Trust+, Ai+ Smartphone is inviting independent researchers to test its systems, challenge its security architecture and identify vulnerabilities that can be addressed before they affect consumers.

The initiative is based on the company’s belief that security is an ongoing process rather than a final destination. As digital ecosystems become increasingly interconnected, Ai+ Smartphone said building secure smartphones requires collaboration, transparency and active participation from the wider community.

Project Trust+ is intended to go beyond traditional bug bounty programmes by creating an open environment in which developers, security researchers and ethical hackers can collectively contribute to the security and resilience of Ai+ products.

Commenting on the announcement, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, "Most companies tell users their devices are secure. We want to prove it. The reality is that no smartphone, no platform, and no technology ecosystem can claim security as a finished destination. It evolves every day. Project Trust+ reflects our belief that trust should be built transparently and collaboratively. We are opening our doors to India’s technology community because we believe the safest products are built not in isolation, but together."

The initiative also strengthens Ai+ Smartphone’s broader focus on transparency, privacy and user ownership, values that are central to NxtQuantum OS, the company’s sovereign mobile operating system initiative.

With Project Trust+, Ai+ Smartphone aims to move the discussion around smartphone security from claims and promises towards continuous improvement and public accountability.

The company said the programme reflects its view that trust requires ongoing work and community participation.

To apply for the programme, applicants have been directed to visit the link in bio on Madhav’s IG handle.

Project Trust+ carries the message: "Because Trust Is Built Together."

Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system, the brand focuses on clean design, long battery life and trusted software performance while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specifications, positioning itself around India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Project Trust+ places community participation at the centre of Ai+ Smartphone’s approach to security, with the company committing Rs. 100 crore over five years to support continued testing, vulnerability identification and efforts to strengthen trust in its devices.

The Telangana Congress is facing increasing political pressure following allegations of "kshudra pujas" and "black magic" involving senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader T Harish Rao, triggering a heated exchange between the ruling party and the opposition.

The controversy has escalated with legal notices becoming part of the political battle. Telangana Congress chief B Mahesh Kumar Goud, chairman of the party's state media and communication department Sama Ramamohan Reddy, and MLC Addanki Dayakar have accused Harish Rao of visiting religious places and allegedly performing tantric rituals with the intention of harming Telangana and the Congress government.

Ramamohan Reddy alleged that Harish Rao had visited Tiruchirappalli and Shivamogga for such rituals. "For what purpose did you do all this? A direct question," he said.

Harish Rao has rejected the allegations and issued legal notices through his lawyer to Mahesh Kumar Goud, Ramamohan Reddy, and Addanki Dayakar. The notices have demanded unconditional apologies and withdrawal of the statements, warning that civil and criminal defamation cases could follow.

The BRS has also strongly criticised the Congress over the allegations. BRS MLC Dasoju Sravan accused the Congress of wrongly portraying traditional Hindu practices as "kshudra pujas."

"Politics is a persuasive debate on policies," Sravan said, arguing that political parties should focus on governance rather than religious practices.

The controversy has also raised questions within the Congress over its communication strategy. In an organisational move, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on August 6 appointed Bhongir MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy as the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee's State Chairperson of the Media and Publicity Department with immediate effect. The move is seen as a snub to the state unit.

The Congress is now under pressure to ensure that its leaders remain aligned with the party's official position and avoid statements that could lead to further political and legal complications.

The coming days will indicate whether the party takes disciplinary action or introduces more organisational changes against some state leaders whose statements have created public embarrassment for the party.

It became a moment of laughter for Congress MP KC Venugopal when he was questioned about Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju’s statement that the Opposition would not be able to digest Home Minister Amit Shah’s reply in Parliament.

Venugopal, who was walking towards his car at the Parliament complex amid light rain, laughed at the remark. Rolling down his car window while speaking to NDTV, he said, “Biggest joke which I heard today is that,” and clapped his hands in response.

Calling Rijiju’s statement the “biggest joke in this Parliament,” Venugopal said, “There was a discussion on examination bill, he (Amit Shah) could have come.”

The Congress MP questioned the Centre over the police crackdown on protesters and said the Opposition has been demanding that Home Minister Amit Shah appear in Parliament and explain the alleged use of pellet guns in Delhi and AK-47s in Bihar during protests over examination irregularities.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi also raised questions over Amit Shah’s absence from the House. “I think he (Amit Shah) is afraid to come (to Parliament). He is not coming for some reason. He should come, he should answer, and he should make a statement. What is the big deal in that? If something wrong has happened, then take responsibility,” she said.

Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge also reiterated his demand that the Home Minister deliver a statement on police action against protesters on July 20.

Kharge claimed that Rajya Sabha Chairperson CP Radhakrishnan had issued a direction to Amit Shah. However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju rejected the claim.

The Congress leader said, “You (the Chair) had asked the Home Minister to come and deliver a statement in the House. But they (the treasury benches) are not respecting your word and are insulting the House.”

Responding to Kharge’s allegation, Rijiju said that the Opposition cannot decide which minister will come to the House and when. He claimed that Home Minister Amit Shah attends the Parliament complex daily.

“The LoP is misleading the House. There has been no direction by the Chair. I am saying this on the record: The minister responsible for the business before the House gives the reply. The Opposition will not decide which minister is to come and when,” Rijiju said.

He further added, “There has been no direction issued for any minister to come to the House. You all raise slogans and immediately leave the Parliament, whereas the Home Minister stays there from morning until late at night; yet, when he rises to reply, you will not be able to listen. You people lack the guts; you only engage in sloganeering and disrupt business.”

Amid rain, Opposition MPs carrying umbrellas and placards against the Central government staged a protest in front of Makar Dwar of Parliament. The protesters raised slogans including “Amit Shah jawab do” (Answer Amit Shah).

Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai also questioned why the Home Minister was not coming to the House. “Why isn't he coming to the House? I feel he simply won't be able to stomach it. He wouldn't be able to hear the truth about how our daughters' clothes were torn, and how lathis and pellet guns were used against them. If he has the courage, let him come,” he said.

The exchange between the Opposition and the government intensified as demands continued for Amit Shah’s statement in Parliament over the alleged police action during protests and the handling of the issue by the Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday interacted with newly-elected NDA Lok Sabha MPs during a breakfast meeting and asked Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Parth Pawar about the well-being of his mother and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar.

During a candid conversation in Marathi, PM Modi asked Parth Pawar, “How is your mother?” He then advised him to “take care of her”.

Parth Pawar’s father Ajit Pawar, who served as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, died in January this year after his aircraft crashed nearly 100 metres from the edge of a tabletop runway at Baramati airport in Pune district. The aircraft caught fire during what officials described as a second landing attempt amid poor visibility.

Following Ajit Pawar’s death, his wife Sunetra Pawar assumed the position of Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

The breakfast meeting was held by PM Modi amid the ongoing disruptions in Parliament. Around 45 MPs attended the meeting, including seven MPs from the Shiv Sena, 20 from the National Citizens Party of India (NCPI), and two from the NCP (Ajit Pawar).

During the interaction, PM Modi urged the MPs to actively participate in parliamentary debates. He described Parliament as the “supreme temple of democracy” and expressed concern over repeated disruptions in the House.

Sources said PM Modi highlighted that the ongoing uproar was preventing newly-elected MPs from getting an opportunity to speak in Parliament. “This is unfair to them,” he reportedly said, adding that parliamentary proceedings “must run smoothly”.

The Prime Minister also advised the MPs to read, learn, and understand the history of Parliament.

PM Modi further assured the Trinamool rebels and the six former Shiv Sena (Uddhav camp) MPs who recently joined the Eknath Shinde-led Sena that he stands with them and that they had “nothing to worry about”.

“The NDA is a family. We are with the constituent parties. Every individual will be respected and given a chance. I am with every MP, not just one constituent party of the NDA. I stand with every MP of the NDA. You don’t need to worry about anyone,” he said.

Earlier on Wednesday, PM Modi had hosted a dinner meeting with 37 BJP MPs at his official residence as part of his ongoing outreach programme with lawmakers.

The meetings reflect the Prime Minister’s continued engagement with NDA members as Parliament faces disruptions and newly-elected MPs begin their legislative responsibilities.

Invitation cards issued by the Defence Ministry for this year’s Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort include the lyrics of Vande Mataram, which will be played for the first time during the annual celebrations at the time of the national flag hoisting, officials aware of the matter said on Friday.

The invitation cards carry the lyrics of all six stanzas of the national song, officials said. Vande Mataram will be played before the national anthem during the 80th Independence Day celebrations.

The ceremony at the Red Fort is attended by top ministers, military officers, bureaucrats, diplomats, students, and special guests who have achieved excellence across various fields. These guests receive the invitation cards issued for the event.

The development comes after Parliament passed a bill last week granting the national song the same status as the national anthem. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, makes any obstruction or insult to the national song a criminal offence, carrying a jail term of up to three years and a fine for offenders. The existing law safeguards the national flag, the national anthem, and the Constitution.

The move was announced during celebrations marking the 150th year of Vande Mataram, months after the Centre made the rendition of all six stanzas of the song mandatory, replacing the decades-old practice of singing only the first two stanzas that were adopted as the national song in 1950.

“People know the national anthem by heart, but few can sing the national song. The lyrics have been provided so that people can sing along,” said one of the officials cited above.

The invitation cards also feature an image of Seva Teerth, which houses the Prime Minister’s Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and the Cabinet Secretariat, along with a list of fundamental duties.

The invitation cards issued last year carried the watermark of Jammu and Kashmir’s Chenab bridge, depicting the rise of ‘Naya Bharat.’

The 77th Republic Day celebrations were organised around the theme of Vande Mataram, marking 150 years of the song. The tableaux of ministries and states were also based on the same theme.

The Indian Army marked the Vande Mataram milestone by organising band performances at 18 locations across the country. The locations where military bands performed included Naihati in West Bengal, the birthplace of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, who composed Vande Mataram in the 1870s.

The success of Operation Sindoor was highlighted during last year’s Independence Day celebrations, three months after Indian forces struck terror and military targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.

The inclusion of Vande Mataram lyrics in the Independence Day invitation cards and its scheduled performance before the national anthem marks a significant change in the annual Red Fort ceremony, reflecting the expanded role of the national song in official celebrations.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar held discussions with Anthropic’s international policy head Michael Sellitto and the company’s team at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Thursday, focusing on potential collaborations in artificial intelligence for governance, citizen services, skilling, startups, and the state’s AI University.

The meeting explored opportunities to strengthen Karnataka’s artificial intelligence ecosystem with emphasis on data privacy and sovereignty. The discussions covered possible AI-driven solutions aimed at improving public services and governance systems while ensuring secure and responsible technology adoption.

Ideas discussed during the meeting included AI-based fraud detection mechanisms, secure examination systems, and Claude AI certifications. These initiatives were discussed as part of efforts to develop advanced AI capabilities and create opportunities for residents, startups, and institutions across the state.

The talks between the Karnataka government and Anthropic focused on building partnerships that support artificial intelligence innovation, skill development, and the state’s vision of becoming a leading AI hub while addressing the needs of citizens through technology-driven solutions

BJP MP and youth wing leader Tejasvi Surya participated in the 2026 Kanwar Yatra by walking a section of the pilgrimage route from Haridwar to Rishikesh while carrying sacred Ganges water, joining millions of Hindu devotees who undertake the annual journey during Shravan to offer the holy water at Shiva temples.

Surya shared that participating in the Kanwar Yatra had been a cherished goal for him after observing devotees taking part in the pilgrimage for the past three to four years. He joined the yatra as devotees travelled long distances as part of the religious tradition.

Supporters of Tejasvi Surya’s participation described the move as an expression of devotion and said it sent a strong message against critics of Hindu traditions. However, some questioned whether his participation reflected traditional barefoot penance or appeared more like a staged political event.

The 2026 Kanwar Yatra is being held from July 30 to August 11 and has drawn massive crowds of devotees. Authorities implemented traffic restrictions and bans on key highways to manage the large number of pilgrims participating in the annual religious journey.

Surya’s participation in the pilgrimage has brought renewed attention to the Kanwar Yatra, which continues to witness large-scale participation during the Shravan period as devotees carry Ganges water to Shiva temples across the country.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the upgraded Residency Road in Jammu, marking the completion of a ₹9.18 crore infrastructure project developed under the Smart City Mission.

The upgraded road has been widened and modern infrastructure improvements have been introduced to ease daily movement for residents and visitors. The project is aimed at improving urban facilities while supporting the development of cleaner and more sustainable city spaces.

During the event, Abdullah was joined by Jammu East MLA Yudhvir Sethi and officials. He also laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹60 crore, including an electric bus depot, Tawi Wonderland park, heritage conservation initiatives, and a modern food street.

The newly launched projects are part of efforts to enhance Jammu’s urban infrastructure while creating spaces that combine modern development with the city’s unique character. The initiatives focus on improving public facilities and strengthening sustainable urban growth in Jammu.

The inauguration of the upgraded Residency Road and the foundation laying of multiple projects mark significant steps towards expanding infrastructure and improving the urban experience for residents and visitors.

Dr. M. Srinivas, Member, NITI Aayog, has called for a fundamental transformation in healthcare delivery by integrating nutrition, diet and lifestyle education into mainstream clinical practice and undergraduate medical education.

Addressing the inaugural session of the national symposium "Lifestyle & Diet: Nutrition, Wellness and Clinical Practice" organised by the Department of Physiology, AIIMS New Delhi, in association with Food Future Foundation (FFF) under the aegis of the Coalition for Food Systems Transformation in India (CoFTI), Dr. Srinivas welcomed the participation of experts from multiple disciplines and highlighted the importance of collaborative discussions to address India's changing nutrition challenges.

Dr. Srinivas emphasised that nutrition, diet and healthy lifestyle education must be appropriately incorporated into medical curricula to prepare future healthcare professionals and strengthen preventive healthcare. He urged stakeholders to work collectively to enhance nutrition and lifestyle education and provide practical recommendations for a more comprehensive policy approach towards improving the nation's health.

The symposium brought together leading clinicians, nutrition scientists, medical educators, regulators and policymakers, including Dr. Nikhil Tandon, Director, AIIMS New Delhi; Dr. Govind Makharia, Associate Dean (Research), AIIMS New Delhi; and Mr. Pawan Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Food Future Foundation and Former CEO, FSSAI.

The discussions focused on how emerging scientific evidence can reshape medical education and clinical practice. A key highlight of the event was the release of the textbook "Nutrition, Diet & Lifestyle: Learning and Teaching Diet, Food, Nutrition & Lifestyle in Clinical Practice", edited by Dr. Raj Kumar Yadav, Dr. Alexander Thomas and Mr. Pawan Agarwal. The textbook was developed by a team of nutrition and lifestyle experts led by senior nutritionist Parisksha Rao.

In the foreword of the book, Dr. Srinivas stated that "scientific evidence now leaves little doubt that food, nutrition and lifestyle are among the most powerful determinants of health," while noting that these subjects receive "far less attention in undergraduate medical education than they deserve."

Describing nutrition as "an essential clinical competency for every doctor," Dr. Srinivas said the textbook combines physiology, nutrition and lifestyle medicine to help future physicians understand how everyday food and lifestyle choices influence health, disease and patient care. He expressed confidence that the book would become "a catalyst for strengthening nutrition and lifestyle medicine across medical education in India."

Dr. Ratna Sharma, Head, Department of Physiology, AIIMS, said developments in nutrition science and lifestyle medicine require a corresponding change in medical education. Dr. Raj Kumar Yadav, Professor of Physiology and lead editor of the textbook, said doctors must increasingly integrate medical treatment with nutrition and lifestyle counselling as part of routine patient care.

During the symposium, Prof. Sheffali Gulati and Prof. Vandana Jain delivered presentations focusing on paediatric age group dietary therapy in epilepsy, autism, obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Prof. Naval K. Vikram discussed skeletal muscles and metabolic health, while Dr. Ritesh Netam presented his research on high fat diet, obesity and neuroinflammation.

A major scientific session examined healthier food reformulation and the role of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in reducing sodium intake without compromising taste. Dr. Miro Smriga, Chairman, International Glutamate Technical Committee (IGTC), shared international experiences demonstrating how evidence-based reformulation is helping improve public health in several countries.

Prof. HN Mallick discussed MSG, while Dr. Trina Sengupta presented findings from a recent systematic review published in Frontiers in Nutrition, concluding that MSG is safe for the general population, including infants, pregnant women and lactating mothers.

The symposium witnessed participation from several renowned faculty members, clinicians and scientists, including Prof. Girija Prasad Rath (AIIMS), Prof. Rajesh Khadgawat (AIIMS), Dr. SubbaRao MG (Scientist G, National Institute of Nutrition, ICMR), Ms. Anuja Agarwala (Senior Dietitian), Prof. Vimal Katiyar (IIT, Guwahati), Prof. Jamuna Prakash (University of Mysore), Prof. Komal Chauhan, Prof. Seema Puri, Prof. Eram S Rao (University of Delhi) and Prof. Pulkit Mathur (Lady Irwin College).

Mr. Pawan Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Food Future Foundation, said the symposium marks the beginning of a larger national effort to bridge the long-standing gap between nutrition science and clinical medicine.

The symposium concluded with a broad consensus that strengthening nutrition and lifestyle medicine within medical education is essential for developing a more preventive, patient-centred and wellness-oriented healthcare system in India.

Hyderabad has unveiled India’s largest Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) display as Iconic by ONE VISION, led by Founder Abhinav Reddy, launched its landmark installation at SAS Tower, setting a new benchmark for premium outdoor advertising infrastructure in the country.

The launch marks a major expansion milestone for the company, which is building a national network of large-format, cinematic-grade DOOH infrastructure. Iconic by ONE VISION currently operates across five cities and will expand to Gurugram by the end of 2026, followed by further expansion into new states in 2027.

The DOOH installation at SAS iTower in Nanakramguda spans 586.14 square meters of continuous L-shaped display area, approximately equal to eight pickleball courts or two basketball courts. The screen is India’s largest cinematic digital display and Hyderabad’s first 8K DOOH display.

Powered by Absen A25 series LED panels, the display is designed for deep-perspective anamorphic content, creating realistic 3D visual effects without the need for 3D glasses. The technology enables objects to appear as though they are emerging from the flat display surface, transforming outdoor advertising into an immersive visual experience.

The installation has become a landmark media wall in Hyderabad’s Financial District, attracting public attention through high-definition cinematic content and brand activations. Before this installation, the average DOOH screen size in India was approximately 20ft x 10ft, while Hyderabad’s largest screen measured 80ft x 10ft. The new SAS iTower display significantly exceeds both benchmarks and places Hyderabad among a select group of Indian cities with large-format, 8K-capable cinematic DOOH infrastructure.

The screen specifications include a 586.14 square meter continuous L-shaped display area, Hyderabad’s first 8K DOOH resolution, Absen A25 series LED panel technology and deep-perspective anamorphic content capable of producing realistic 3D depth without glasses.

“Outdoor advertising in India is at an inflection point. Brands don't just want visibility anymore, they want screens that make people stop, look up, and remember what they saw. That's the space Iconic by ONE VISION was built for,” said Abhinav Reddy, Founder, Iconic by ONE VISION.

Reddy added, “We set out to build large-format, cinematic-grade DOOH infrastructure across India's growing cities, and today we're present in five: Bangalore, Bhopal, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram and Bhubaneswar. Hyderabad is our biggest canvas yet, but it's far from the last. We're entering Gurugram by the end of this year, with more states to follow in 2027. This is just the start of what we're building.”

Since going live, Iconic by ONE VISION’s screens have attracted campaigns from major national brands, including Apple’s iPhone 17 launch campaign on the company’s Bhopal screen and Prestige Group’s apartment launch campaign in Bangalore. The Hyderabad installation received three campaign bookings within its second week of operations, indicating demand for large-format, high-impact DOOH advertising in the city.

The company works with leading names in real estate, jewellery and hospitality, which are among the categories most attracted to the scale and visibility offered by the format. With premium advertising slots filling quickly, Iconic by ONE VISION is inviting brands in real estate, jewellery, automotive and financial services to plan campaigns ahead of the festive season, with Dussehra period slots expected to sell out.

The Hyderabad launch expands Iconic by ONE VISION’s presence across six cities: Bangalore, Bhopal, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar and Hyderabad. The company’s screen at DB Mall in Bhopal holds a similar distinction as Madhya Pradesh’s largest anamorphic display.

Founded by Abhinav Reddy in July 2024, Iconic by ONE VISION crossed Rs. 1 crore in overall business during its first year of operations. The company attributes the milestone to increasing brand demand for large-format, immersive advertising formats across India’s metro and emerging urban markets.

The company’s expansion highlights the growing role of technology-enabled DOOH advertising, which is transforming outdoor media through dynamic, data-driven and immersive brand experiences. With its Hyderabad installation, Iconic by ONE VISION continues its national growth journey, with Gurugram and additional state expansions planned ahead.

Indian sports entered a new phase with the official launch of the Women’s Pro Volleyball League (WPVL), the country’s first national, franchise-based professional league dedicated exclusively to women’s volleyball. Promoted by Power Spike International Private Limited, the league aims to create a sustainable professional sporting ecosystem for women athletes.

The official unveiling of the WPVL took place at The Centrum, Lucknow, under the theme “Rising Queen of the Court.” The launch event was attended by senior government dignitaries, sports administrators, and business leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister Shri Swatantra Dev Singh, Sports Minister Shri Girish Chandra Yadav, Transport Minister Shri Dayashankar Singh, and UP State Commission for Women Chairperson Dr. Babita Singh Chauhan.

The inaugural edition of the Women’s Pro Volleyball League is scheduled to be held from November 1 to November 11, 2026, at the Ekana Indoor Stadium in Lucknow. The 11-day tournament will feature six city-based franchises with a combined playing roster of 84 elite professional athletes, with each team consisting of 14 players.

Despite volleyball having a global following of over 800 million players and fans, women athletes in India have historically lacked a sustained professional platform to pursue the sport as a full-time career. The WPVL has been designed to address this gap by establishing a commercially viable framework focused on private investment, long-term athlete development, and grassroots growth.

Speaking at the launch, WPVL Founder Mr. Bukhrat Ahmad highlighted the vision behind the league and stated that talent requires structured opportunity, visibility, and professional support to succeed. He said the objective is to build an ecosystem where women athletes can compete professionally and inspire future generations.

The league is expected to announce details regarding franchise identities, player auction procedures, and broadcast partnerships in the coming weeks.

The Women’s Pro Volleyball League (WPVL) is a national franchise-based professional volleyball league promoted by Power Spike International Private Limited. Established with the vision of elevating women’s volleyball in India, WPVL is committed to creating a sustainable sporting ecosystem through professional competition, athlete development, commercial partnerships, and fan engagement.

The inaugural season of WPVL will take place from November 1 to November 11, 2026, at Ekana Indoor Stadium, Lucknow, marking a significant step towards building a professional platform for women volleyball players in India.

Pulse Candy, one of the popular brands from the Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a leading FMCG conglomerate and multi-business corporation, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Spider-Man: Brand New Day movie for a 360-degree consumer engagement campaign. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Pulse Candy’s brand journey and is among the brand’s most ambitious entertainment-led collaborations, combining limited-edition packaging, high-impact media and consumer participation on a nationwide scale.

The campaign brings together the excitement of Spider-Man: Brand New Day with Pulse Candy’s distinctive flavour, delivering the message, “Even Spider-Man Cannot Resist Pulse.”

The collaboration has been developed through a creative narrative that reimagines Spider-Man’s iconic persona alongside Pulse Candy’s irresistible appeal. The co-branded film showcases the superhero using his signature web to capture Pulse, while innovative outdoor installations extend the storytelling with larger-than-life visuals of Spider-Man reaching across adjoining billboards to grab the candy.

The integrated campaign will run from the last week of July to August 30 across digital, outdoor, cinema, retail and social media platforms. The initiative blends entertainment with brand storytelling to reinforce the message that Pulse Candy is so compelling that even a superhero cannot resist it.

At the centre of the nationwide 360-degree initiative are limited-edition co-branded packs, which transform the product itself into a powerful communication medium, enhancing visibility and providing consumers with an immersive way to experience the collaboration.

Commenting on the partnership, Arvind Kumar, Senior General Manager, Marketing, Confectionery, DS Group, said, “Pulse Candy has consistently built strong consumer connections by creating experiences that are innovative, culturally relevant and groundbreaking. Spider-Man is one of the world's most iconic entertainment franchises, with exceptional relevance among Gen Z while also enjoying immense cross-generational appeal. This collaboration reflects our continued focus on building Pulse Candy at the intersection of entertainment and popular culture. Through this campaign, we aim to deepen consumer engagement, strengthen brand affinity and create memorable experiences that celebrate the irresistible appeal of Pulse Candy.”

Speaking about the partnership, Shony Panjikaran, General Manager and Head, Sony Pictures Releasing International, India said, “Spider-Man has remained one of the world's most loved superheroes, captivating audiences across generations with his enduring appeal and inspiring stories. We're delighted to collaborate with Pulse Candy, one of India's most loved confectionery brands, on a campaign that creatively extends the excitement of Spider-Man: Brand New Day beyond the big screen. This collaboration offers fans a fun and engaging way to celebrate the film while creating memorable experiences through innovative consumer engagement.”

Spider-Man: Brand New Day follows a new chapter in Peter Parker’s life, where he fights crime full-time as Spider-Man in a world that does not remember him. The pressure of watching his old friends move on without him sparks a transformation in Peter that he may not be able to control. However, the change could also be the only way to stop a shocking new threat to the city and those he loves — a powerful villain no one can even see. While the world may have forgotten Peter Parker, he has not forgotten them.

Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation. SPE’s global operations include motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies.

Sony Pictures Television operates dozens of wholly-owned or joint-venture production companies around the world. SPE’s Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, 3000 Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, Sony Pictures International Productions and Sony Pictures Classics.

Dr. Ragunanthan Narayanaswamy, Founder & Chief Orthopaedic Surgeon of Rathimed Speciality Hospital, Chennai, has received global recognition after being invited to present his indigenous innovation in personalised kinematic knee replacement at the prestigious Personalized Arthroplasty Society (PAS) Annual Meeting in Montreal, Canada.

The invitation marks international recognition for an Indian breakthrough developed to address complex challenges in knee replacement surgery. Dr. Ragunanthan Narayanaswamy, M.S. (Orth.), DNB, MRCS (Edin), FRCS (Ortho), CAS (UK), Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in Arthroscopy, Knee Preservation & Replacement, and Sports Injury, is among the few Indian orthopaedic surgeons to receive this distinction.

His presentation at the PAS Annual Meeting will showcase an indigenous surgical innovation developed in Chennai that is redefining personalised knee replacement for patients with advanced arthritis. The team’s research has also been accepted for presentation at an international arthroplasty conference in China later this year, strengthening the global recognition of the work.

The journey towards developing this innovation began in 2016 when Rathimed Speciality Hospital studied the pioneering work of Dr. Stephen Howell, whose philosophy focused on restoring a patient’s natural knee anatomy instead of depending only on conventional mechanical alignment techniques.

While the approach showed success, Indian patients presented a unique clinical challenge. Many patients seek treatment only after advanced arthritis causes severe deformity and bone loss, making accurate restoration of the original knee anatomy difficult.

To address this challenge, Dr. Ragunanthan Narayanaswamy and his team conducted years of research to develop a solution specifically designed for Indian patients.

The research resulted in the design, development and clinical validation of precision surgical instruments that recreate the patient’s original joint surface and enable accurate implant positioning in all three dimensions.

Developed through collaboration between clinicians and engineers, the indigenous innovation restores natural knee kinematics and demonstrates the potential of Indian medical research in solving complex clinical problems through home-grown technology.

Clinical experience with personalised kinematic knee replacement has shown encouraging outcomes, with patients experiencing reduced pain, less blood loss, faster rehabilitation and improved functional mobility compared with conventional approaches. By restoring each patient’s natural anatomy, the technique aims to provide a knee that feels and functions more naturally after surgery.

“When we introduced kinematic knee replacement in 2016, many questioned the approach because it challenged conventional thinking. But we believed in the philosophy. As we continued, we saw patients recover faster, experience less pain and blood loss, and achieve better functional outcomes. Every innovation we pursue has only one purpose—to help our patients regain mobility and quality of life,” said Dr. Ragunanthan Narayanaswamy, M.S. (Orth.), DNB, MRCS (Edin), FRCS (Ortho), CAS (UK), Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Arthroscopy, Knee Preservation & Replacement, and Sports Injury Specialist.

For Dr. Ragunanthan Narayanaswamy, the impact of innovation is reflected in patient recovery. He recalled the experience of a 70-year-old gentleman who recently underwent his second knee replacement surgery.

“Just three and a half hours after surgery, he was sitting comfortably, smiling and moving both knees without pain. Moments like these remind us why we continue to innovate. Every refinement ultimately translates into a better experience and faster recovery for our patients,” he said.

Rathimed Speciality Hospital is also training orthopaedic surgeons in personalised kinematic knee replacement while making its indigenous instruments available for wider adoption. The innovation, which began as an effort to address an Indian clinical challenge, has now gained international attention.

The recognition at the Personalized Arthroplasty Society Annual Meeting highlights the growing global visibility of Indian clinical expertise and indigenous advancements in orthopaedic surgery.

VinFast Auto India, a subsidiary of global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has inaugurated its first 3S dealership in Bihar, marking the company’s 60th retail outlet in India. The milestone highlights VinFast’s expanding presence across major metropolitan centres and emerging tier 2 and tier 3 markets as the company continues its efforts to bring premium electric mobility closer to Indian consumers.

The new dealership, named VinFast Patliputra, was inaugurated by Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, and Mr. Harsh Raj, Dealer Principal. Established by Patliputra Motors Private Limited under the leadership of Mr. Harsh Raj, the dealership is located on NH-30, Bypass Road, Paijawa, a major arterial corridor in Patna city, providing convenient access and visibility for customers across the region.

Built according to VinFast’s global retail standards, the 11,500 sq. ft. facility combines vehicle sales, after-sales services, and customer support under one roof. The dealership features a modern 3,000 sq. ft. showroom where customers can experience VinFast’s electric vehicle lineup, supported by dedicated sales and service teams. The facility has been designed as a one-stop destination covering the complete ownership journey, from vehicle discovery and purchase to maintenance and after-sales support.

The inauguration of VinFast’s 60th dealership comes one year after the opening of its first showroom in India, reflecting the pace of the company’s retail expansion and its commitment to the Indian market. The Patna outlet also marks VinFast’s first entry into Bihar, extending its retail network further into eastern India.

The company’s latest showroom reflects its strategy of expanding beyond major metropolitan areas and tier 1 cities into tier 2 and tier 3 markets. Patna, a key gateway to Bihar and eastern India, represents this broader expansion approach aimed at improving access to VinFast vehicles and services in emerging markets across the country. VinFast remains on track to establish 75 dealerships across more than 60 cities by the end of 2026.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “We are delighted to mark the milestone of 60 dealerships in India while establishing VinFast’s presence in Bihar for the first time. This marks an important step in our growth journey and opens up new opportunities in a promising market in eastern India. VinFast remains committed to building a strong retail and after-sales network and accelerating the adoption of green mobility across the country.”

Along with the expansion of its retail and after-sales network, VinFast continues to strengthen its electric vehicle ecosystem through local manufacturing, charging infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and a circular battery value chain to support India’s transition to sustainable mobility.

VinFast’s premium electric SUVs, the VF 6 and VF 7, have received 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings and are supported by ownership benefits including roadside assistance, three years of complimentary maintenance, and warranty coverage of up to 10 years or 200,000 km, depending on the model.

The company’s lineup also includes the VF MPV 7, a premium all-electric seven-seater offering an ARAI-certified driving range of 517 km and fast charging capability from 10% to 70% in approximately 30 minutes. Customers also receive benefits under the Value Assured Programme, which provides predefined buyback values after a specified ownership period, along with complimentary charging across the V-Green network until March 31, 2029.

VinFast further supports customers transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles through its “Trade Gas for Electric” programme, aimed at reducing barriers to electric mobility adoption in India.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup includes electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses.

VinFast is currently entering its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its global distribution and dealership network and increasing manufacturing capacities, with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Galgotias University has entered into a strategic industry-academia collaboration with Accenture LearnVantage to launch a portfolio of industry-integrated undergraduate programs aimed at equipping students with technology, business and professional skills required to succeed in the age of artificial intelligence.

The collaboration combines Galgotias University's academic foundation and campus ecosystem with Accenture LearnVantage's industry-led learning expertise to bridge the gap between classroom education and evolving workforce requirements.

As organisations continue adopting artificial intelligence, cloud, data and digital technologies, employers are increasingly seeking graduates with strong foundational knowledge and practical industry-relevant capabilities. Addressing this demand, the partnership will introduce specialised BTech and BBA degrees and establish an Accenture Centre of Advanced Studies on the Galgotias University campus to support these industry-integrated programs.

The initiative will provide students with exposure to emerging technologies, contemporary industry practices and experiential learning opportunities designed to enhance career readiness.

The program portfolio includes four BTech specialisations — Cloud and AI, Full Stack Development with AI, Data Science, AI and Machine Learning, and Design Engineering — along with two BBA specialisations: AI-Integrated General Management and AI-Powered Sales and Marketing.

Students enrolled in these programs will receive a structured combination of academic learning, industry-led content, hands-on projects, virtual labs, interactions with industry experts, assessments and certifications along with a degree from Galgotias University upon successful completion.

The curriculum is designed to help students connect classroom concepts with real-world applications while developing capabilities aligned with the requirements of modern enterprises.

A key feature of the collaboration is its focus on developing industry-ready talent through an integrated learning approach. Along with academic and technical education, students will receive career-readiness support including professional skills development, workplace communication training, industry mentoring, interview preparation and placement support.

The approach aims to help students develop professional competencies, confidence and adaptability needed to transition from university education to the workplace.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “The future belongs to students who can adapt, innovate and apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Our collaboration with Accenture LearnVantage represents an important step in reimagining undergraduate education by integrating academic rigor with industry relevance. Through these future-ready programs, students will gain access to contemporary learning experiences, emerging technologies and professional development opportunities that will help them build successful and meaningful careers.”

Anurag Bansal, Managing Director, Accenture LearnVantage, Asia Oceania, said, “AI is transforming every industry, increasing the demand for graduates who combine domain expertise with AI fluency. Through these newly launched academic programs, we are bringing industry-relevant learning into engineering and management education, helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and the evolving needs of employers. By combining technical, business and professional skills with industry perspectives, we aim to prepare students to apply their learning and create value in the workplace from day one.”

The collaboration will provide students with industry-aligned academic pathways focused on technology, business and professional development, with program structure, eligibility and admissions details available through the program website.