Virohan Announces ₹2 Crore Scholarship To Promote Healthcare Education Among Women

* Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative opens pathways for female students to pursue healthcare programs across 20+ top universities and colleges in India

Virohan, India's leading healthcare education company, today announced the launch of the Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative, a ₹2 Crore scholarship pool designed to bring more women into India's growing healthcare sector.

Every eligible female applicant whether enrolling in a 4-5 year bachelor’s degree or a 1-year university certificate program through Virohan will receive a ₹50,000 scholarship. Students with 75% or above in Class 12 would qualify for ₹1,00,000 and those with 90% or above for ₹2,00,000 scholarship, applied upfront against the program fee.

Commenting on the initiative, Nalin Saluja, Co-founder and CTO, Virohan, said: "Healthcare is a profession of respect, stability, and purpose and one where women have always played a central role. The Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative is built on the belief that more women should have access to it. The world is facing a significant shortage of healthcare professionals and India has the talent to meet that demand, both at home and globally. What we have found is that awareness is the biggest barrier. Students don't know allied and healthcare paths exist, and parents don't know the industry demand and career progression these roles offer. This scholarship is our way of saying: the opportunity is real, the universities are ready, and we want more women to seize it."

The launch comes amid a growing shift in how students and parents are approaching healthcare careers. While medical degrees continue to attract significant interest, industry stakeholders are witnessing increased curiosity around allied and healthcare programs that offer structured career pathways across patient care, diagnostics, medical technology, rehabilitation, and healthcare operations.

Indian allied and healthcare graduates are also finding themselves increasingly sought after beyond domestic borders. Countries such as Australia, Germany, and Japan are grappling with ageing populations and acute healthcare workforce shortages and trained professionals from India are emerging as a natural fit for these markets, adding an international dimension to what has traditionally been seen as a domestic career path.

With Virohan, students can apply for programs at UPES (Dehradun), MIT University (Shillong), CMR University (Bengaluru), KIET Deemed to be University (Ghaziabad), HRIT University (Ghaziabad), Lingaya's Vidyapeeth Deemed-to-be-University (Faridabad), Silver Oak University (Ahmedabad), and Vikrant University (Gwalior), among many others.

The initiative marks a significant step by Virohan to expand access to healthcare education for women at a time when the sector's demand for trained professionals is outpacing supply both in India and abroad.

Admission Now Open

Female students and parents looking to explore healthcare programs and apply for the Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative scholarship can call +91 8448299435 or visit www.virohan.com/scholarship. Applications are open now.

About Virohan

Virohan is India's leading healthcare education company with 13,000+ success stories, 20+ university and college partners, and a network of 2,000+ healthcare employers across the country. With a 98% placement record, Virohan prepares students for job-ready careers across the healthcare sector through its university and industry partnerships and industry-aligned education.

IISc Study Finds Namma Metro Yellow Line Can Improve Bengaluru Commuters' Health And Quality Of Life

Biocon Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Biocon Group, today announced the findings of a landmark study conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Sustainable Transportation Lab on the potential impact of the Namma Metro Yellow Line corridor connecting RV Road and Bommasandra on public health, wellbeing, and urban liveability.

The study demonstrated strong potential to improve the public health and overall quality of life of Bengaluru residents, while also signalling a scalable model that could deliver similar benefits across other Namma Metro lines.

The study, titled Assessing the Impact of Yellow Line Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) System on Public Health and Quality of Life: A Sustainable Urban Mobility Perspective, was supported and funded by Biocon Foundation, with follow-on support from the Electronics City Industries Association (ELCIA), and enabled by the Bengaluru Science and Technology Cluster (BeST Cluster) anchored at IISc. This collaboration underscores the growing role of cross-sector alignment in advancing evidence-based, sustainable urban mobility solutions.

The study represents the first rigorous, longitudinal evaluation of its kind for any Metro rail corridor in India. Its findings position urban transit not just as an infrastructure investment, but as a high-impact lever for advancing health outcomes, liveability, and sustainable urban growth.

Dr. Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, said, “At Biocon Foundation, we have consistently believed that access to sustainable public transport is fundamental to building healthier, more equitable cities. This study reinforces the broader value of investing in mass transit systems, not merely as mobility solutions, but as powerful enablers of public health, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life. The findings also highlight the need for an inclusive mobility ecosystem through stronger last-mile connectivity and safer pedestrian infrastructure. Public transport must remain at the centre of Bengaluru’s long-term urban development agenda.”

Prof. Ashish Verma, Principal Investigator, IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab, said, “This study on the Yellow Line Metro Rail Corridor has the potential to serve as a benchmark for understanding how shared, electric, and active mobility modes contribute not only to sustainable transportation but also to broader development goals such as liveability, public health, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability. The findings demonstrate the importance of viewing public transport investments as critical interventions for improving air quality, health outcomes, and overall quality of life.”

Shri Anantharaman, Chief Executive Officer, Foundation for Bengaluru Science and Technology Cluster (BeST Cluster), said, “The BeST Cluster was established to bring science and evidence-based research to address Bengaluru’s most pressing urban challenges. This study exemplifies that mission by integrating transportation engineering with public health research to generate actionable insights for policymakers. We hope these findings will guide Metro authorities, urban planners, and public agencies in building a healthier and more sustainable Bengaluru.”

The study was led by Prof. Ashish Verma, Professor of Transportation Systems Engineering at IISc and Convenor of the IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab. Using a robust longitudinal research design, the team surveyed 600 commuters and residents along the Yellow Line corridor through baseline assessments conducted in September 2025, followed by a post-implementation survey conducted in March 2026, six months after the commencement of metro operations.

The findings also indicate strong public willingness to adopt Metro-based transportation, with 83% of respondents expressing readiness to shift to the Yellow Line. The study further demonstrates that Metro usage can contribute to increased physical activity through additional walking, reduced exposure to air pollution and heat, improved mental wellbeing, stronger social connectivity, enhanced workplace productivity, and lower road accident risk through reduced dependence on two-wheelers.

The study recommends a series of policy interventions to strengthen Metro adoption and maximise public health outcomes. These include strengthening last-mile connectivity through feeder services and shared mobility options, as well as upgrading pedestrian infrastructure for safer station access. It also recommends integrating public health considerations into transport planning and promoting Metro systems as a sustainable mode of transport that reduces pollution exposure while enhancing mental and social wellbeing.

The research was conducted by the IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. The research team comprised Prof. Ashish Verma, Dr. Priyanka Das, and Ms. Ann Das, with advisory support from Prof. Prabhdeep Kaur of the Isaac Centre for Public Health, IISc, and Prof. Aruna Sivakumar of Imperial College London.

About Biocon Foundation:

Biocon Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of Biocon Limited and Syngene International Limited, has been advancing social and economic inclusion since 2005. Its programs focus on healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and civic infrastructure, with strong partnerships across government and civil society.

DevX Scales Bengaluru Portfolio With Prestige Group, Adds 1.11 Lakh SqFt

* Expansion adds 1200 seats across two Grade A+ developments in one of India’s most active office corridors

* DevX Partners with Prestige Group for Prestige Lakeshore Drive Development

Dev Accelerator Limited, among India’s leading premium managed workspace providers and one of the country’s fastest growing companies, as recognised by Hurun India, has strengthened its Bengaluru presence with the acquisition of two premium Grade A+ office assets in partnership with the Prestige Group, marking a significant scale-up in the city’s high-demand Outer Ring Road (ORR) micro-market. The expansion, spanning 1.11 lakh Sq ft, will add over 1,200 seats to DevX’s portfolio and is expected to generate approximately ₹2.2 crore in monthly revenue.

The first asset, located at Lakeshore Drive opposite Bellandur Lake, sits within a sprawling 90 acres corporate campus that houses global occupiers Establishing a presence in this elite corporate ecosystem allows the company to offer unparalleled networking and infrastructure advantages. The premium asset, exclusively designed to cater to evolving enterprise requirements, is expected to launch on 1st August 2026, with an investment of approximately ₹10 crore towards fit-outs and infrastructure development.

The second development, Prestige Featherlite Tech Hub, is an integrated Grade A+ asset that champions the Walk to Work model. The asset caters to occupiers prioritising reduced commute times, improved employee experience, and operational efficiency.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Umesh Uttamchandani Managing Director of Dev Accelerator Limited stated that “Expanding within Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road is a strategic step aligned with where we see long-term demand consolidating. Our collaboration with Prestige Group allows us to bring institutional-grade workspaces to a market that continues to attract GCCs and enterprise occupiers at scale. Furthermore, we are witnessing strong demand from AI-native GCCs, particularly those operating in the manufacturing and retail sectors. These additions strengthen our ability to offer high-quality, flexible environments that are both growth-ready and operationally efficient.”

Mr Juggy Marwaha – CEO & Executive Director of Prestige Group added “We are pleased to partner with DevX for our premium commercial developments on Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road. At Prestige Group, our focus has consistently been on creating sustainable Grade A+ ecosystems that support the evolving needs of global enterprises. DevX’s enterprise-led approach and operational expertise align well with the positioning of Prestige Lakeshore Drive and Prestige Featherlite Tech Hub. We believe this collaboration will further strengthen the value proposition of these developments for companies seeking agile, future-ready work environments in one of Bengaluru’s most strategic offices.”

Securing prime real estate on the Outer Ring Road strengthens the DevX footprint in one of Asia largest IT corridors. The dual acquisition caters to the rising demand for flexible institutional grade workspaces among global capability centers and large enterprises.

About Dev Accelerator Limited

Dev Accelerator Limited is an enterprise-focused, full-solution managed workspace platform and has been recognised among the “India’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2026” by Hurun India. The company designs, builds, and operates custom offices end-to-end covering site selection, bespoke fit-outs, technology integration, and facility management under a single SLA.

With one of India’s largest Tier-2 footprints by operational flex stock, DevX serves enterprises, startups, and global corporations with collaborative, customizable work environments across the country. The company operates 28 centres across multiple Indian cities with over 17,000 seats and 1.2 million sq. ft. under management. This is complemented by design-and-build and allied services that ensure fast handovers and consistent standards.For more information, visit www.devx.work

SAP Technology Powering Global Businesses Is Now Accessible To Students In India

In college campuses across India, students are familiar with companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra. What many do not realize is that behind most of the world’s leading businesses lies a common technology: SAP.

To help students gain exposure, SAP is offering free access to SAP Learning Hub, student edition. The platform helps learners certify in enterprise technologies.

“Businesses need talent that understands digital operations across functions like finance, supply chain, HR, and customer experience,” said Tine Vandenbreeden, Global VP SIX Partner Solution Enablement, SAP.

SAP Learning Hub, student edition includes access to learning resources, expert-led sessions, real SAP practice systems, and two free SAP Certification attempts. Students from various academic streams can explore SAP Learning Journeys mapped to business roles.

For more information on the free SAP Learning Hub, student edition, visit https://learning.sap.com/free-student-edition.

An Evening Stirred by Kaitlyn Stewart at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru

Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru invites connoisseurs to an extraordinary evening at SHIMMER, as globally acclaimed bartender Kaitlyn Stewart takes over the bar for an exclusive, one-night experience. Recognised as Diageo’s World Class Bartender of the Year and among the world’s most influential voices in mixology, Kaitlyn brings over two decades of mastery, artistry, and storytelling to every pour.

Guests can experience an immersive bar takeover, where each cocktail reflects Kaitlyn’s signature style and global influences, set within an atmosphere of refined elegance. Evolving from award-winning creations to an influential presence across the world’s most distinguished bar circuits, Kaitlyn’s craft embodies innovation, precision, and an enduring passion for elevating the art of mixology. Her illustrious journey spanning international guest shifts, acclaimed seminars, and global recognition including the Drinks International Bar World 100 culminates in an unmissable expression of modern cocktail artistry.

Details
Venue: SHIMMER, Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru
Date: Friday, 5th June 2026
Time: 8:00 PM onwards

Reservations: +91 76250 72899

Indulge in an evening where world-class craftsmanship meets understated sophistication, exclusively at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru. 

Air India’s Maharaja Club Named ‘Program Of The Year’ At The Freddie Awards 2026

* Wins ‘Program of the Year’ in the Middle East & Asia Pacific region at the Freddie Awards 2026

Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced that its loyalty programme, Maharaja Club, has been named ‘Program of the Year’ in the Middle East & Aisa Pacific region at the prestigious Freddie Awards 2026.

The award marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Maharaja Club and follows its recognition as the ‘Up and Coming Program of the Year’ at the Freddie Awards 2025, marking its rapid evolution into one of the region’s leading airline loyalty programmes.

In addition to winning 'Program of the Year', Maharaja Club was recognised as the runner-up in four key categories, ‘Best Promotion’, ‘Best Elite Program’, ‘Best Redemption Ability’ and ‘Best Customer Service’. The strong showing across multiple categories reflects the programme's continued commitment on delivering a rewarding and differentiated experience for its members.

Voted for by millions of travellers worldwide, the Freddie Awards recognise loyalty programmes that deliver outstanding member experience, value, customer service, redemption opportunities and innovation.

The Freddie Awards, introduced in 1988, are a highly respected global benchmark for travel loyalty programs, having grown in stature and importance to become the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry. Today, over 7 million voters worldwide cast the Freddie Award ballots annually, with the balloting available in 13 languages, including Hindi.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “This title is a strong validation of the direction we have taken with Maharaja Club. Our focus has been on creating meaningful value for members and building a programme that extends beyond travel into everyday experiences. We are grateful for the trust our members have placed in us, and we remain committed to making Maharaja Club even more rewarding in the years ahead.”

Redesigned in 2024, Maharaja Club moved away from the legacy model of miles-based collection of points to a fairer, more equitable spend-based approach. With a simplified structure, a host of customer-friendly features, renamed tiers, and an updated identity, the programme has added millions of new members over the two years.

Recently, Air India announced several enhancements to the Maharaja Club programme, including reduced redemption levels across at least 90% of the routes served by the airline, a new tier-based structure for rescheduling and cancellations of Award Flights, and reduced flight count thresholds for tier progression.

Air India has now also enabled its Maharaja Club members to earn and redeem Maharaja Points on flights operated by Air India Express, a value-carrier of the Air India group, serving 55 destinations across South, Southeast, and West Asia, with a fleet of more than 100 aircraft.

Additionally, Maharaja Club has significantly expanded its partner ecosystem to more than 100 partners across categories, including airlines, hospitality, retail, lifestyle and financial services, enabling members to earn Maharaja Points across a broad range of travel and everyday spends.

Maharaja Club members can earn and redeem points across 25 Star Alliance partner airlines, enjoy tier privileges worldwide, and access over 1,100 lounges across the globe.

About Air India Group

The Air India Group – comprising full-service global airline, Air India, and value carrier, Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India Group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries travellers to 60 domestic and 51 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India Group is in the midst of a five-year transformation programme, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India has placed orders for 600 new aircraft. In addition to taking new aircraft deliveries, Air India is progressively retrofitting all its legacy aircraft.

The Air India Group operates South Asia’s largest aviation training academy in Gurugram, India. The construction of a new flying school and a greenfield maintenance base is in progress.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.For more news on Air India, visit http://www.airindia.com/newsroom

Ranveer Singh Co-Founded ABD Maestro Brings Its Luxury & Premium Spirits portfolio To Odisha

*Celebrating modern luxury and craftsmanship, the debut introduces AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Indian Malt, YELLO Designer Whisky, and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka to Odisha

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers Limited (ABD), today announced its entry into the Odisha market with the launch of AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, YELLO Designer Whisky and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka in Bhubaneswar.

The launch marks a significant milestone in ABD Maestro’s strategic market expansion as the company strengthens its presence in high-potential markets. The move reflects the company’s vision of building a future-forward portfolio of culturally resonant premium spirits for evolving Indian consumers.

With superstar actor and entrepreneur Ranveer Singh as Co-Founder and Creative Partner, ABD Maestro brings a fresh perspective to modern luxury. The focus is to offer brands that are rich in craftsmanship, with and distinct and authentic narratives.

The ABD Maestro portfolio in Odisha brings together four distinct brands, each with a unique identity. AODH Irish Whiskey offers its smoothness and craft through a triple distillation process; WOODBURNS Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, is already winning the world’s most respected and recognised awards; YELLO Designer Whisky, is a bold cross-continental fusion of Scotch and Indian Malts created for modern Indian palates; and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka, celebrates our country’s vibrant spirit through a playful and expressive brand experience.

Announcing ABD Maestro’s Odisha debut at a launch event held in Bhubaneswar, Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said: “Odisha always understood craftmanship and has shared with the world its Patta Chitra, applique from Pipli, silver filigree, Kotpad or Ikat among many others. The consumer in Odisha has the finesse to understand unique experiences. In our world of spirits and experiences, Odisha is a priority. We’ve designed our portfolio to blend world-class craftsmanship with modern luxury. Whether it’s the smooth refinement of AODH or the playful energy of RANGEELA, the exploration of WOODBURNS or the boldness of YELLO, our goal is to elevate everyday celebrations and match evolving tastes.”

With its Odisha debut, ABD Maestro continues to build one of India’s most distinctive premium spirits portfolios, while expanding the reach of its nationally recognised brands across cities within the Odisha market.

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a super-premium and luxury spirits company, and a subsidiary of Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited, the largest domestic Spirits company in India, in terms of annual sales volumes. Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh is a co-founder and creative partner at ABD Maestro.

The ABD Maestro portfolio include The Collective Limited Edition, Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Aodh Irish Whiskey, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Yello Designer Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.