In a historic milestone for India’s hospitality, culinary, and tourism sectors, the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) has entered into a landmark three-year Strategic Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Signed through the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB) in Tirupati. This strategic alliance brings together government vision and global hospitality expertise to build a future-ready workforce and accelerate regional tourism.
The collaboration represents a transformative step forward in bridging education with enterprise. By combining IIHM’s renowned academic framework with the state's vision for economic expansion, the partnership aims to elevate standards across hospitality education, cultural promotion, destination marketing, and industry integration.
With a strong focus on sustainability, skills development, and emerging technologies—including Artificial Intelligence (AI) in service operations and destination management—the initiative aims to revitalize the state’s broader economic landscape.
Emphasizing the significance of this strategic union, Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman of IIHM, highlighted the transformative potential of aligning high-level governance with specialized education. "This partnership marks a momentous occasion where government vision seamlessly meets global hospitality expertise. By joining hands with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, IIHM is committed to creating a vibrant ecosystem that empowers young talent with world-class skills, integrates cutting-edge technologies like AI, and positions the state as a leading benchmark for global hospitality education," he said.
Dr. Bose further underscored the broader cultural and economic implications of the agreement, particularly regarding regional heritage and destination growth: "Our alliance goes beyond conventional academic partnerships—it is about honoring the rich culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh and reimagining its tourism potential. Together with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board, we are opening dynamic new avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment that will resonate across the region for years to come."
*Four Core Pillars of the Partnership*
The strategic agreement outlines a clear roadmap to turn ambition into action across four key focus areas:
* World-Class Hospitality Education: Developing future-ready talent by introducing modern skill sets, international best practices, and advanced training methodologies to prepare students for global leadership roles.
* Celebrating Andhra Pradesh’s Culinary Heritage: Promoting regional culinary traditions, indigenous recipes, and food entrepreneurship, elevating the state's unique flavors onto global culinary maps.
* Reimagining Tourism: Enhancing destination visibility, promoting sustainable tourism models, and developing immersive culinary and eco-tourism experiences across key regions.
* Connecting Education with Industry: Creating robust pathways for industry collaboration, employment, innovation, and youth entrepreneurship.
*A New Chapter for Industry and Academia*
The signing ceremony in Tirupati marks the beginning of a sustained joint venture. By establishing direct linkages between academia, local government authorities, and global industry networks, the alliance ensures that hospitality training remains tightly aligned with evolving market demands.
As the three-year agreement unfolds, IIHM and the Government of Andhra Pradesh will launch dedicated skill development programs, host culinary research initiatives, and drive sustainable tourism campaigns across the state. This landmark initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved when public vision and educational excellence unite to shape the future of India's service economy.
*About IIHM*
The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) is a leading global network of hospitality management institutes, shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals through industry-integrated education, innovation and international exposure. With campuses across India and overseas, IIHM offers globally oriented programmes in hospitality, tourism and culinary arts. Through its pioneering initiatives in global culinary diplomacy, entrepreneurship, sustainability and Artificial Intelligence, IIHM continues to redefine the future of hospitality education.
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Saturday, November 7, 2026
Lam Research Challenge 2026 Brings Top Engineering Institutions Together To Solve Semiconductor Systems Challenges
Photo caption: Rangesh Raghavan, Corporate Vice President and Managing Director, Lam Research India, presents the winner’s trophy and prize cheque to the team from IIT Guwahati, which emerged as the overall winner at the 3rd edition of The Lam Research Challenge 2026.
More than 800 teams from nearly 190 colleges, including IITs and leading NIRF-ranked engineering institutions, competed in Lam’s advanced systems engineering challenge, showcasing the next generation of semiconductor talent.
As the AI era accelerates demand for skilled talent for the semiconductor industry, Lam Research, a leading supplier of wafer fabrication equipment, today announced the winners of the 3rd Lam Research Challenge. The event is the company’s elite, advanced semiconductor systems competition. More than 3,000 young aspiring innovators and engineers from nearly 190 colleges in India competed in this year’s challenge, underscoring the growing importance of systems engineering skills needed to design, build and optimize increasingly complex semiconductor manufacturing technologies. The winners were announced at the grand finale, held at PES University in
Bengaluru, on the 5 th and 6 th of November.
Sophisticated semiconductor manufacturing requires expertise spanning hardware, software, automation, data science, process engineering and advanced controls, making systems engineering a critical capability for the industry's future growth. The Lam Research Challenge is one of India's largest industry- led semiconductor engineering competitions, designed to build skills relevant to semiconductor manufacturing and advanced wafer fabrication. Unlike traditional engineering competitions focused on individual disciplines, this challenge encourages participants to apply systems-level thinking and understand how multiple technologies and functions interact within large-scale manufacturing operations.
Following a rigorous multi-stage three-month-long competition that included qualification and hardware- build rounds, selected teams advanced to the finale.
Highlights included:
Each team comprises four students, from multi-disciplinary backgrounds 25 finalist teams selected Finalists included students from 20 colleges, including 10 IITs, 2 NITs and 2 BITS campuses selected from 803 teams across 189 colleges in 23 states and 4 Union Territories During the finale, participants developed solutions to complex technical challenges, demonstrating creativity, engineering execution and the ability to translate ideas into working outcomes. Entries were evaluated on innovation, technical excellence, collaboration and problem-solving, and performance under pressure, with IIT Guwahati emerging as the overall winner. Runner-up, IIT Ropar and Second Runner-up - NIT Calicut secured the remaining podium positions. Winners shared prize money worth INR 1,000,000 while select students from this pool are offered internship opportunities with Lam Research, global wafer fabrication equipment leader.
“Congratulations to all the participants of the Lam Research Challenge 2026. Semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most sophisticated engineering environments in the world today, requiring talent that can solve complex, systems-level challenges,” said Rangesh Raghavan, corporate vice president and managing director, Lam Research India. “The Lam Research Challenge is designed to help students build these capabilities while gaining exposure to the kinds of engineering problems shaping the future of our industry. It further demonstrates our continuing commitment to inspire the next generation of innovators.”
Why Systems Engineering Matters in the AI Era
The industry's talent requirements are evolving beyond traditional engineering disciplines. Modern semiconductor manufacturing environments require engineers who can understand and optimize entire systems rather than individual components in isolation, creating growing demand for talent capable of integrating technologies across increasingly complex engineering environments. Building the pipeline of future talent continues to be important as India expands its role across semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, equipment engineering and the broader electronics ecosystem.
Workforce Enablement Critical to Supporting India's Expanding Semiconductor Ambitions
Lam Research is supporting semiconductor workforce development through a portfolio of skilling initiatives spanning semiconductor education, advanced manufacturing training and applied systems engineering. These include Semiverse® Solutions, which is being deployed in India through a partnership with the India Semiconductor Mission and the Indian Institute of Science with a goal to help train up to 60,000 engineers over the next decade, the Lam Research Challenge, and a 240-hour advanced manufacturing skill development programme that provides industry-aligned training, certification and placement support for entry level manufacturing jobs. Together, these initiatives are helping build the talent pipeline needed to support India's growing semiconductor ecosystem.
About Lam Research
Lam Research Corporation (NASDAQ: LRCX) is a global supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry. Lam's equipment and services allow customers to build smaller and better performing devices. In fact, today, nearly every advanced chip is built with Lam technology. We combine superior systems engineering, technology leadership, and a strong values- based culture, with an unwavering commitment to our customers. Lam Research is a FORTUNE 500 company headquartered in Fremont, California, with operations around the globe.
More than 800 teams from nearly 190 colleges, including IITs and leading NIRF-ranked engineering institutions, competed in Lam’s advanced systems engineering challenge, showcasing the next generation of semiconductor talent.
As the AI era accelerates demand for skilled talent for the semiconductor industry, Lam Research, a leading supplier of wafer fabrication equipment, today announced the winners of the 3rd Lam Research Challenge. The event is the company’s elite, advanced semiconductor systems competition. More than 3,000 young aspiring innovators and engineers from nearly 190 colleges in India competed in this year’s challenge, underscoring the growing importance of systems engineering skills needed to design, build and optimize increasingly complex semiconductor manufacturing technologies. The winners were announced at the grand finale, held at PES University in
Bengaluru, on the 5 th and 6 th of November.
Sophisticated semiconductor manufacturing requires expertise spanning hardware, software, automation, data science, process engineering and advanced controls, making systems engineering a critical capability for the industry's future growth. The Lam Research Challenge is one of India's largest industry- led semiconductor engineering competitions, designed to build skills relevant to semiconductor manufacturing and advanced wafer fabrication. Unlike traditional engineering competitions focused on individual disciplines, this challenge encourages participants to apply systems-level thinking and understand how multiple technologies and functions interact within large-scale manufacturing operations.
Following a rigorous multi-stage three-month-long competition that included qualification and hardware- build rounds, selected teams advanced to the finale.
Highlights included:
Each team comprises four students, from multi-disciplinary backgrounds 25 finalist teams selected Finalists included students from 20 colleges, including 10 IITs, 2 NITs and 2 BITS campuses selected from 803 teams across 189 colleges in 23 states and 4 Union Territories During the finale, participants developed solutions to complex technical challenges, demonstrating creativity, engineering execution and the ability to translate ideas into working outcomes. Entries were evaluated on innovation, technical excellence, collaboration and problem-solving, and performance under pressure, with IIT Guwahati emerging as the overall winner. Runner-up, IIT Ropar and Second Runner-up - NIT Calicut secured the remaining podium positions. Winners shared prize money worth INR 1,000,000 while select students from this pool are offered internship opportunities with Lam Research, global wafer fabrication equipment leader.
“Congratulations to all the participants of the Lam Research Challenge 2026. Semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most sophisticated engineering environments in the world today, requiring talent that can solve complex, systems-level challenges,” said Rangesh Raghavan, corporate vice president and managing director, Lam Research India. “The Lam Research Challenge is designed to help students build these capabilities while gaining exposure to the kinds of engineering problems shaping the future of our industry. It further demonstrates our continuing commitment to inspire the next generation of innovators.”
Why Systems Engineering Matters in the AI Era
The industry's talent requirements are evolving beyond traditional engineering disciplines. Modern semiconductor manufacturing environments require engineers who can understand and optimize entire systems rather than individual components in isolation, creating growing demand for talent capable of integrating technologies across increasingly complex engineering environments. Building the pipeline of future talent continues to be important as India expands its role across semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, equipment engineering and the broader electronics ecosystem.
Workforce Enablement Critical to Supporting India's Expanding Semiconductor Ambitions
Lam Research is supporting semiconductor workforce development through a portfolio of skilling initiatives spanning semiconductor education, advanced manufacturing training and applied systems engineering. These include Semiverse® Solutions, which is being deployed in India through a partnership with the India Semiconductor Mission and the Indian Institute of Science with a goal to help train up to 60,000 engineers over the next decade, the Lam Research Challenge, and a 240-hour advanced manufacturing skill development programme that provides industry-aligned training, certification and placement support for entry level manufacturing jobs. Together, these initiatives are helping build the talent pipeline needed to support India's growing semiconductor ecosystem.
About Lam Research
Lam Research Corporation (NASDAQ: LRCX) is a global supplier of innovative wafer fabrication equipment and services to the semiconductor industry. Lam's equipment and services allow customers to build smaller and better performing devices. In fact, today, nearly every advanced chip is built with Lam technology. We combine superior systems engineering, technology leadership, and a strong values- based culture, with an unwavering commitment to our customers. Lam Research is a FORTUNE 500 company headquartered in Fremont, California, with operations around the globe.
Friday, November 6, 2026
LTM And ServiceNow Expand Partnership To Scale Agentic AI And Accelerate Joint Go-To-Market
• Combines the ServiceNow AI Platform with LTM’s domain and technology expertise to help enterprises deploy governed agentic AI at scale.
• Strengthens joint go-to-market efforts for more than 700 shared customers, using LTM’s own transformation as a proven enterprise blueprint.
ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), the Super Intelligence Control Tower for business reinvention, and LTM, the Business Creativity partner to the world's largest enterprises, today announced a planned expansion of their partnership to scale agentic AI and accelerate joint go-to-market initiatives for customers. The companies will bring together the ServiceNow AI Platform and LTM’s domain, engineering, and transformation expertise to help enterprises move agentic AI programs from isolated use cases to governed, enterprise-wide adoption and measurable business outcomes.
As an Elite ServiceNow Partner serving more than 700 joint customers, LTM will use its own enterprise transformation as a ‘client-zero’ blueprint. LTM has deployed 1,500 ServiceNow AI Agents across its operations, creating a digital workforce that works alongside employees, while ServiceNow Super Intelligence Control Tower provides a single system of action for AI inventory and risk oversight, with LTM expecting up to an 80% improvement in AI asset management and efficiency. LTM’s own ServiceNow deployment will inform joint solutions and go-to-market programs designed to help customers adopt, govern, and scale agentic AI with greater speed and confidence.
The ServiceNow AI Platform is already helping LTM achieve measurable value across cybersecurity, HR, IT, and project delivery. ServiceNow solutions are streamlining security operations, reducing IT ticket volumes, and enabling up to 87% faster senior management review cycles.
“Our expanded partnership with ServiceNow will help enterprises move agentic AI from experimentation to meaningful business impact,” said Krishnan Iyer, Chief Growth Officer, LTM. “By combining the ServiceNow Platform with LTM’s domain, engineering, and transformation expertise, we will jointly develop solutions and go-to-market programs that help customers deploy agentic AI with greater speed and confidence.”
“LTM is showing what an AI-powered enterprise looks like: a new workforce of AI agents working alongside their people, delivering faster threat responses, fewer IT tickets, and higher HR productivity. But every agent is a new identity with enterprise access, and most companies can't say where their agents are, what they're doing, or who's accountable,” said Kulmeet Bawa, GVP & Managing Director, ServiceNow India & SAARC. “With the ServiceNow Super Intelligence Control Tower, LTM has visibility and control, so their people stay focused on the judgment calls that matter. Now more than 700 joint customers get to learn from a partner who's already done it.”
About ServiceNow
ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW) is the Super Intelligence Control Tower for business reinvention. The ServiceNow platform integrates with any model, any cloud, and any data source to orchestrate, govern, and secure work across the agentic enterprise. ServiceNow gives customers the enterprise context and control to build and scale confidently. With more than 100 billion workflows running on the platform each year, ServiceNow helps organizations turn fragmented operations into coordinated, autonomous work for IT, CRM, Security, Employee Experience, and more. Learn how ServiceNow puts AI to work for people at www.servicenow.com.
• Strengthens joint go-to-market efforts for more than 700 shared customers, using LTM’s own transformation as a proven enterprise blueprint.
ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), the Super Intelligence Control Tower for business reinvention, and LTM, the Business Creativity partner to the world's largest enterprises, today announced a planned expansion of their partnership to scale agentic AI and accelerate joint go-to-market initiatives for customers. The companies will bring together the ServiceNow AI Platform and LTM’s domain, engineering, and transformation expertise to help enterprises move agentic AI programs from isolated use cases to governed, enterprise-wide adoption and measurable business outcomes.
As an Elite ServiceNow Partner serving more than 700 joint customers, LTM will use its own enterprise transformation as a ‘client-zero’ blueprint. LTM has deployed 1,500 ServiceNow AI Agents across its operations, creating a digital workforce that works alongside employees, while ServiceNow Super Intelligence Control Tower provides a single system of action for AI inventory and risk oversight, with LTM expecting up to an 80% improvement in AI asset management and efficiency. LTM’s own ServiceNow deployment will inform joint solutions and go-to-market programs designed to help customers adopt, govern, and scale agentic AI with greater speed and confidence.
The ServiceNow AI Platform is already helping LTM achieve measurable value across cybersecurity, HR, IT, and project delivery. ServiceNow solutions are streamlining security operations, reducing IT ticket volumes, and enabling up to 87% faster senior management review cycles.
“Our expanded partnership with ServiceNow will help enterprises move agentic AI from experimentation to meaningful business impact,” said Krishnan Iyer, Chief Growth Officer, LTM. “By combining the ServiceNow Platform with LTM’s domain, engineering, and transformation expertise, we will jointly develop solutions and go-to-market programs that help customers deploy agentic AI with greater speed and confidence.”
“LTM is showing what an AI-powered enterprise looks like: a new workforce of AI agents working alongside their people, delivering faster threat responses, fewer IT tickets, and higher HR productivity. But every agent is a new identity with enterprise access, and most companies can't say where their agents are, what they're doing, or who's accountable,” said Kulmeet Bawa, GVP & Managing Director, ServiceNow India & SAARC. “With the ServiceNow Super Intelligence Control Tower, LTM has visibility and control, so their people stay focused on the judgment calls that matter. Now more than 700 joint customers get to learn from a partner who's already done it.”
About ServiceNow
ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW) is the Super Intelligence Control Tower for business reinvention. The ServiceNow platform integrates with any model, any cloud, and any data source to orchestrate, govern, and secure work across the agentic enterprise. ServiceNow gives customers the enterprise context and control to build and scale confidently. With more than 100 billion workflows running on the platform each year, ServiceNow helps organizations turn fragmented operations into coordinated, autonomous work for IT, CRM, Security, Employee Experience, and more. Learn how ServiceNow puts AI to work for people at www.servicenow.com.
Wonderla Bengaluru Announces Diwali Ticket Offer Starting At ₹1,099
* Bringing the joy of Diwali beyond home with rides, festive decor and family experiences
Wonderla Holidays, India’s largest amusement park chain, has announced a special Diwali ticket offer at its Bengaluru park, inviting families and groups to plan a fun-filled day out during the festive week. The offer comes as Wonderla celebrates the festive season with its campaign, “This Diwali, Be Majaa Ready.”
Tickets start at ₹1,099 per adult, excluding applicable taxes. The offer is valid for visits from 7 to 13 November 2026. Ticket prices vary by height, with free entry for children below 85 cm in height. Tickets can be booked on Wonderla’s official website and through online ticketing platforms.
The park will also run a Jain buffet alongside its regular buffet through the offer period, for visitors with different dietary preferences.
Speaking about the Diwali celebrations, Dheeran Choudhary, Chief Operating Officer, Wonderla, said, “Diwali is all about coming together with loved ones and creating special memories. At Wonderla Bengaluru, we wanted to bring that same festive warmth and excitement beyond the home, creating a space where families and friends can celebrate together. With festive decorations, exciting rides and shared experiences, we hope to offer visitors a different way to enjoy Diwali and make lasting memories with their loved ones.”
The park will be decorated in a Diwali theme, with festive lighting, floral rangolia and a special Diwali-themed photo booth for visitors. Adding to the celebrations, Wonderla Bengaluru has planned a series of activities, including an in-house DJ performance on 7 November, traditional Dollu Kunitha performances and Zumba sessions from 8 to 10 November, and evening fireworks displays from 7 to 10 November, creating a festive atmosphere for families and friends.
Wonderla Bengaluru features attractions such as Garuda Glide, Karnataka's first inverted roller coaster, and Mission Interstellar, a space-themed immersive ride with an 8K screen and motion-controlled platform. The park also offers a mix of land rides, water attractions and family-friendly experiences for visitors across age groups
Visitors can check and book tickets through Wonderla’s official website : https://www.wonderla.com/offer/diwali-offer
Contact: +91 80372 30333, +91 9945557777
About Wonderla Holidays Limited:
Wonderla Holidays Limited is India's largest amusement park chain, with parks in Kochi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar and Chennai. Since the first park opened in Kochi in 2000, Wonderla has welcomed over 50 million guests. Known for its thrilling attractions, including custom-designed rides from leading international suppliers, Wonderla continues to set the benchmark in family entertainment.
In addition to its parks, Wonderla offers immersive experiences through its premium resorts in Bengaluru: The Isle by Wonderla, a serene retreat amidst water, and Terrea by Wonderla, an earth-inspired urban resort. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Wonderla Holidays Limited is listed on the BSE and NSE.
Wonderla Holidays, India’s largest amusement park chain, has announced a special Diwali ticket offer at its Bengaluru park, inviting families and groups to plan a fun-filled day out during the festive week. The offer comes as Wonderla celebrates the festive season with its campaign, “This Diwali, Be Majaa Ready.”
Tickets start at ₹1,099 per adult, excluding applicable taxes. The offer is valid for visits from 7 to 13 November 2026. Ticket prices vary by height, with free entry for children below 85 cm in height. Tickets can be booked on Wonderla’s official website and through online ticketing platforms.
The park will also run a Jain buffet alongside its regular buffet through the offer period, for visitors with different dietary preferences.
Speaking about the Diwali celebrations, Dheeran Choudhary, Chief Operating Officer, Wonderla, said, “Diwali is all about coming together with loved ones and creating special memories. At Wonderla Bengaluru, we wanted to bring that same festive warmth and excitement beyond the home, creating a space where families and friends can celebrate together. With festive decorations, exciting rides and shared experiences, we hope to offer visitors a different way to enjoy Diwali and make lasting memories with their loved ones.”
The park will be decorated in a Diwali theme, with festive lighting, floral rangolia and a special Diwali-themed photo booth for visitors. Adding to the celebrations, Wonderla Bengaluru has planned a series of activities, including an in-house DJ performance on 7 November, traditional Dollu Kunitha performances and Zumba sessions from 8 to 10 November, and evening fireworks displays from 7 to 10 November, creating a festive atmosphere for families and friends.
Wonderla Bengaluru features attractions such as Garuda Glide, Karnataka's first inverted roller coaster, and Mission Interstellar, a space-themed immersive ride with an 8K screen and motion-controlled platform. The park also offers a mix of land rides, water attractions and family-friendly experiences for visitors across age groups
Visitors can check and book tickets through Wonderla’s official website : https://www.wonderla.com/offer/diwali-offer
Contact: +91 80372 30333, +91 9945557777
About Wonderla Holidays Limited:
Wonderla Holidays Limited is India's largest amusement park chain, with parks in Kochi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar and Chennai. Since the first park opened in Kochi in 2000, Wonderla has welcomed over 50 million guests. Known for its thrilling attractions, including custom-designed rides from leading international suppliers, Wonderla continues to set the benchmark in family entertainment.
In addition to its parks, Wonderla offers immersive experiences through its premium resorts in Bengaluru: The Isle by Wonderla, a serene retreat amidst water, and Terrea by Wonderla, an earth-inspired urban resort. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Wonderla Holidays Limited is listed on the BSE and NSE.
South Africa Makes Travel Easier For Indian Travellers With Expanded Electronic Travel Authorization
South Africa has announced the continued expansion of its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, introducing new capabilities designed to simplify and streamline travel for eligible visitors across India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The enhanced platform introduces new features aimed at simplifying the travel authorization process, enabling more travellers to experience the country’s renowned wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.
The ETA enables eligible Indian passport holders to apply for travel authorization entirely online, without the need to visit a visa processing center or obtain a traditional visa sticker. The digital system is designed to streamline the application process, making it easier for travellers to plan their holidays and prepare for their journey to South Africa.
With the latest enhancements, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system now supports applications for minors, including biometric capture and enrolment on the Home Affairs National Identification System (HANIS) for children aged seven years and older. The platform also introduces a multi-applicant capability, enabling families and groups to submit applications through a single portal. Together, these enhancements are designed to deliver a more seamless, convenient and user-friendly travel authorization experience for Indian travellers.
The expansion of the ETA is being implemented in phases, with additional country waves introduced during August and September 2026. The platform is now available across 53 countries, including all markets previously covered under South Africa's eVisa programme, which has now transitioned to the ETA system. This milestone represents a significant step in South Africa's ongoing efforts to modernize and digitize its travel authorization process, making access to the destination more efficient and convenient for international visitors.
The next phase of the ETA expansion will target key growth markets ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, supporting South Africa’s efforts to boost tourism and improve accessibility for international visitors. Indian travellers will be able to pair the tournament experience with the destination’s renowned safari, culture and leisure offerings.
The transition to ETA will also see the decommissioning of the eVisa system on 1 December 2026, with a full move to the digital authorization platform. The system is being actively monitored for stability and scalability, while communication and stakeholder onboarding initiatives are underway to support the transition and familiarize travellers and industry partners with the new process.
Commenting on the developments, Ms. Neliswa Nkani Hub Head MEISEA, South African Tourism, said, “Indian travellers are increasingly looking for destinations that offer memorable experiences alongside greater convenience. The continued expansion of South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorization is an important step towards making travel planning simpler for eligible visitors, including families and groups. As we look ahead to the ICC Cricket World Cup, we hope more Indian travellers will take the opportunity to experience South Africa beyond the game, discovering our extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage.”
The continued expansion of the ETA reflects South Africa’s efforts to create a more seamless travel experience for eligible international visitors, while supporting its tourism ambitions and strengthening its appeal among Indian travellers.
Travellers are encouraged to check their eligibility and complete their applications through the official South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal ahead of their planned visit. The ETA serves as pre-authorization to travel, with final admission determined by South African border authorities upon arrival.
The ETA enables eligible Indian passport holders to apply for travel authorization entirely online, without the need to visit a visa processing center or obtain a traditional visa sticker. The digital system is designed to streamline the application process, making it easier for travellers to plan their holidays and prepare for their journey to South Africa.
With the latest enhancements, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system now supports applications for minors, including biometric capture and enrolment on the Home Affairs National Identification System (HANIS) for children aged seven years and older. The platform also introduces a multi-applicant capability, enabling families and groups to submit applications through a single portal. Together, these enhancements are designed to deliver a more seamless, convenient and user-friendly travel authorization experience for Indian travellers.
The expansion of the ETA is being implemented in phases, with additional country waves introduced during August and September 2026. The platform is now available across 53 countries, including all markets previously covered under South Africa's eVisa programme, which has now transitioned to the ETA system. This milestone represents a significant step in South Africa's ongoing efforts to modernize and digitize its travel authorization process, making access to the destination more efficient and convenient for international visitors.
The next phase of the ETA expansion will target key growth markets ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, supporting South Africa’s efforts to boost tourism and improve accessibility for international visitors. Indian travellers will be able to pair the tournament experience with the destination’s renowned safari, culture and leisure offerings.
The transition to ETA will also see the decommissioning of the eVisa system on 1 December 2026, with a full move to the digital authorization platform. The system is being actively monitored for stability and scalability, while communication and stakeholder onboarding initiatives are underway to support the transition and familiarize travellers and industry partners with the new process.
Commenting on the developments, Ms. Neliswa Nkani Hub Head MEISEA, South African Tourism, said, “Indian travellers are increasingly looking for destinations that offer memorable experiences alongside greater convenience. The continued expansion of South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorization is an important step towards making travel planning simpler for eligible visitors, including families and groups. As we look ahead to the ICC Cricket World Cup, we hope more Indian travellers will take the opportunity to experience South Africa beyond the game, discovering our extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage.”
The continued expansion of the ETA reflects South Africa’s efforts to create a more seamless travel experience for eligible international visitors, while supporting its tourism ambitions and strengthening its appeal among Indian travellers.
Travellers are encouraged to check their eligibility and complete their applications through the official South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal ahead of their planned visit. The ETA serves as pre-authorization to travel, with final admission determined by South African border authorities upon arrival.
TI Simplifies Industrial Ethernet Integration For Connected Factories With The Industry’s Smallest Multiprotocol Communications Module
* Pre-certified multiprotocol module and advanced IO-Link master expand TI’s industrial communication portfolio to enable a future-ready industrial networking ecosystem
News highlights:
The TICS100MOD is the industry’s smallest fully featured, multiprotocol communications SoM, streamlining Industrial Ethernet integration by supporting EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and Profinet on a single, compact piece of hardware.
The TIOM2212 is an advanced dual-channel IO-Link master that bridges the gap between field devices and Industrial Ethernet networks, simplifying the integration of sensors and actuators into factory control systems.
TI’s multiprotocol approach enables engineers to switch between Industrial Ethernet protocols through simple firmware updates, reducing design complexity and future-proofing industrial networking ecosystems.
Texas Instruments (TI) (Nasdaq: TXN) today announced two new devices designed to enable seamless interoperability across increasingly complex factory automation, robotics and Industrial Internet of Things systems. A multiprotocol communications system-on-module (SoM) and IO-Link master expand TI’s industrial communication portfolio, which includes software-programmable hardware and certified, production-ready software stacks that enable engineers to run any established protocol on one integrated platform.
TI's multiprotocol industrial communication portfolio enables fast, reliable data exchange between control units and field devices.
“Industrial communication is evolving faster than ever, and engineers need a partner who can help them adapt to emerging standards and requirements,” said Karim Jamal, director of Industrial Communications Solutions at TI. “TI brings together certified hardware, software and in-house engineering expertise, supporting customers as they develop next-generation industrial automation systems that work together seamlessly across devices, networks and communication protocols.”
“At SICK, we rely on robust and future-ready communication technologies to connect sensors, machines, and systems. TI’s Industrial Ethernet and IO-Link solutions help us bring products such as the SIG300 to market with the performance and reliability required for modern industrial automation,” said Dr. Stefan Odermatt, senior vice president of research and development, integrated automation at SICK.
Achieve seamless multiprotocol integration
Built on TI’s AM2612 microcontroller (MCU) and DP83826AI Ethernet physical layer, the TICS100MOD is the industry’s smallest fully featured, certified communications SoM that supports multiple real-time Ethernet protocols on a single piece of hardware. The SoM allows engineers to switch between EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and Profinet during boot time through a simple firmware update, future-proofing their designs as protocols evolve and making Industrial Ethernet integration easier and more cost effective. The TICS100MOD SoM integrates two Arm® Cortex®-R5F cores and external memory, providing enough compute performance to support fully featured protocol stacks and advanced factory automation applications in an optimized system footprint.
The TIOM2212 dual-channel IO-Link master bridges TI’s upstream multiprotocol approach to the sensor and actuator level with IO-Link connectivity, enabling engineers to connect IO-Link devices to higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks through a single platform. With advanced analog integration and built-in protection features, the TIOM2212 ensures fast, reliable data exchange between field devices. Compatible with TI’s Sitara™ industrial networking system-on-chip (SoC) family and AM13Ex real-time MCUs through an integrated frame handler, the TIOM2212 reduces the design complexity and costs of bridging field devices and factory control systems.
Accelerate innovation in connected factories
Connected factories require multiple industrial communications protocols to exchange data between diverse equipment on the production floor. Supporting multiprotocol networks typically requires separate hardware for each protocol – increasing cost, design complexity and time. Sourcing both hardware and software from a single vendor can simplify integration and customization, reduce supply-chain risk, and streamline long-term platform maintenance.
TI’s multiprotocol portfolio enables engineers to address these design challenges in several ways:
Protocol flexibility: Firmware-based switching and customization helps meet changing customer or regional requirements without hardware redesign.
Deterministic communication: Simultaneous real-time performance across multiple protocols, with industry-leading process data cycle times on TI MCUs and processors.
Software configurability: Full media access control layer access enables highly customized protocol implementations across the stack.
Streamlined development: Evaluation modules and a software development kit (SDK) with certified, production-ready protocol stacks, application examples, training resources, and development and troubleshooting tools accelerate time to market.
For more information, read the application brief, “Accelerating Industrial Connectivity: Simplifying Multiprotocol Ethernet Integration with TICS100MOD.”
Enable a future-ready industrial networking ecosystem with TI technology
Central to TI’s single-chip, multiprotocol approach is the programmable real-time unit and industrial communication subsystem (PRU-ICSS). This proprietary hardware block is integrated into TI MCUs and SoCs to handle deterministic, low-latency industrial communication protocols. By offloading real-time communication to these dedicated cores, the general-purpose Arm CPUs are freed to manage other critical functions, improving overall system performance.
TI’s broader portfolio for industrial communications includes scalable SoCs with an integrated PRU-ICSS, real-time MCUs, protocol-compliant interface devices and an industrial communication SDK. With the addition of the TIOM2212, TI now provides every hardware layer in the IO-Link ecosystem, spanning transceivers, digital output switches and a master device with an integrated frame handler. These solutions are designed, optimized and supported in-house, positioning TI as the partner of choice for networking engineers.
TI at electronica 2026
TI will display its multiprotocol industrial communications technology at electronica, Nov. 10-13, in Munich, Germany. The new TICS100MOD SoM will be featured at TI’s exhibit in Hall C4, booth 159, in two demonstrations:
TICS100MOD multiprotocol Industrial Ethernet: Reduce complexity and speed up time-to-market by seamlessly integrating multiprotocol industrial Ethernet into any system with TI’s certified, production-ready module.
New industrial communication technologies and trends: Create a seamless, future-ready industrial networking ecosystem by leveraging the latest Ethernet and IO-Link protocols, integrated neural processing units and time-sensitive networking.
Availability
Preproduction quantities of the TIOM2212 IO-Link master device are available now on TI.com, with the TICS100MOD SoM available by year-end 2026. Development resources are also available, including the:
Industrial communications SDK.
TIOL221 evaluation module.
About Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments Incorporated (Nasdaq: TXN) is a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures and sells analog and embedded processing chips for markets such as industrial, automotive, data center, personal electronics and communications equipment. At our core, we have a passion to create a better world by making electronics more affordable through semiconductors. This passion is alive today as each generation of innovation builds upon the last to make our technology more reliable, more affordable and lower power, making it possible for semiconductors to go into electronics everywhere. Learn more at TI.com.
News highlights:
The TICS100MOD is the industry’s smallest fully featured, multiprotocol communications SoM, streamlining Industrial Ethernet integration by supporting EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and Profinet on a single, compact piece of hardware.
The TIOM2212 is an advanced dual-channel IO-Link master that bridges the gap between field devices and Industrial Ethernet networks, simplifying the integration of sensors and actuators into factory control systems.
TI’s multiprotocol approach enables engineers to switch between Industrial Ethernet protocols through simple firmware updates, reducing design complexity and future-proofing industrial networking ecosystems.
Texas Instruments (TI) (Nasdaq: TXN) today announced two new devices designed to enable seamless interoperability across increasingly complex factory automation, robotics and Industrial Internet of Things systems. A multiprotocol communications system-on-module (SoM) and IO-Link master expand TI’s industrial communication portfolio, which includes software-programmable hardware and certified, production-ready software stacks that enable engineers to run any established protocol on one integrated platform.
TI's multiprotocol industrial communication portfolio enables fast, reliable data exchange between control units and field devices.
“Industrial communication is evolving faster than ever, and engineers need a partner who can help them adapt to emerging standards and requirements,” said Karim Jamal, director of Industrial Communications Solutions at TI. “TI brings together certified hardware, software and in-house engineering expertise, supporting customers as they develop next-generation industrial automation systems that work together seamlessly across devices, networks and communication protocols.”
“At SICK, we rely on robust and future-ready communication technologies to connect sensors, machines, and systems. TI’s Industrial Ethernet and IO-Link solutions help us bring products such as the SIG300 to market with the performance and reliability required for modern industrial automation,” said Dr. Stefan Odermatt, senior vice president of research and development, integrated automation at SICK.
Achieve seamless multiprotocol integration
Built on TI’s AM2612 microcontroller (MCU) and DP83826AI Ethernet physical layer, the TICS100MOD is the industry’s smallest fully featured, certified communications SoM that supports multiple real-time Ethernet protocols on a single piece of hardware. The SoM allows engineers to switch between EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and Profinet during boot time through a simple firmware update, future-proofing their designs as protocols evolve and making Industrial Ethernet integration easier and more cost effective. The TICS100MOD SoM integrates two Arm® Cortex®-R5F cores and external memory, providing enough compute performance to support fully featured protocol stacks and advanced factory automation applications in an optimized system footprint.
The TIOM2212 dual-channel IO-Link master bridges TI’s upstream multiprotocol approach to the sensor and actuator level with IO-Link connectivity, enabling engineers to connect IO-Link devices to higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks through a single platform. With advanced analog integration and built-in protection features, the TIOM2212 ensures fast, reliable data exchange between field devices. Compatible with TI’s Sitara™ industrial networking system-on-chip (SoC) family and AM13Ex real-time MCUs through an integrated frame handler, the TIOM2212 reduces the design complexity and costs of bridging field devices and factory control systems.
Accelerate innovation in connected factories
Connected factories require multiple industrial communications protocols to exchange data between diverse equipment on the production floor. Supporting multiprotocol networks typically requires separate hardware for each protocol – increasing cost, design complexity and time. Sourcing both hardware and software from a single vendor can simplify integration and customization, reduce supply-chain risk, and streamline long-term platform maintenance.
TI’s multiprotocol portfolio enables engineers to address these design challenges in several ways:
Protocol flexibility: Firmware-based switching and customization helps meet changing customer or regional requirements without hardware redesign.
Deterministic communication: Simultaneous real-time performance across multiple protocols, with industry-leading process data cycle times on TI MCUs and processors.
Software configurability: Full media access control layer access enables highly customized protocol implementations across the stack.
Streamlined development: Evaluation modules and a software development kit (SDK) with certified, production-ready protocol stacks, application examples, training resources, and development and troubleshooting tools accelerate time to market.
For more information, read the application brief, “Accelerating Industrial Connectivity: Simplifying Multiprotocol Ethernet Integration with TICS100MOD.”
Enable a future-ready industrial networking ecosystem with TI technology
Central to TI’s single-chip, multiprotocol approach is the programmable real-time unit and industrial communication subsystem (PRU-ICSS). This proprietary hardware block is integrated into TI MCUs and SoCs to handle deterministic, low-latency industrial communication protocols. By offloading real-time communication to these dedicated cores, the general-purpose Arm CPUs are freed to manage other critical functions, improving overall system performance.
TI’s broader portfolio for industrial communications includes scalable SoCs with an integrated PRU-ICSS, real-time MCUs, protocol-compliant interface devices and an industrial communication SDK. With the addition of the TIOM2212, TI now provides every hardware layer in the IO-Link ecosystem, spanning transceivers, digital output switches and a master device with an integrated frame handler. These solutions are designed, optimized and supported in-house, positioning TI as the partner of choice for networking engineers.
TI at electronica 2026
TI will display its multiprotocol industrial communications technology at electronica, Nov. 10-13, in Munich, Germany. The new TICS100MOD SoM will be featured at TI’s exhibit in Hall C4, booth 159, in two demonstrations:
TICS100MOD multiprotocol Industrial Ethernet: Reduce complexity and speed up time-to-market by seamlessly integrating multiprotocol industrial Ethernet into any system with TI’s certified, production-ready module.
New industrial communication technologies and trends: Create a seamless, future-ready industrial networking ecosystem by leveraging the latest Ethernet and IO-Link protocols, integrated neural processing units and time-sensitive networking.
Availability
Preproduction quantities of the TIOM2212 IO-Link master device are available now on TI.com, with the TICS100MOD SoM available by year-end 2026. Development resources are also available, including the:
Industrial communications SDK.
TIOL221 evaluation module.
About Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments Incorporated (Nasdaq: TXN) is a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures and sells analog and embedded processing chips for markets such as industrial, automotive, data center, personal electronics and communications equipment. At our core, we have a passion to create a better world by making electronics more affordable through semiconductors. This passion is alive today as each generation of innovation builds upon the last to make our technology more reliable, more affordable and lower power, making it possible for semiconductors to go into electronics everywhere. Learn more at TI.com.
Livpure Reaches 50th Milestone With New Exclusive Brand Outlet In Delhi
* The milestone takes Livpure's exclusive retail presence to 50 stores, spanning metros, state capitals and high potential Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets
* The outlet showcases Livpure’s wellness-focused portfolio spanning water purification, kitchen, and air solutions
* The Delhi launch underlines the brand’s expansion into emerging, high-growth markets through an experience-first retail approach
Livpure, a leading brand focused on improving everyday well-being, today announced that it has achieved the milestone of 50 Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) across India with the opening of its Exclusive Brand Outlet in Delhi. The launch marks another step in the brand's efforts to expand its physical retail presence and bring its integrated ecosystem of home wellness solutions closer to consumers, strengthening its commitment to making innovative and reliable solutions more accessible to Indian households.
Driven by its mission to democratise access to safe and pure drinking water, Livpure's expanding EBO network is built on the belief that every household deserves access to the right purification solutions and the knowledge to make informed choices. Going beyond conventional retail, these outlets serve as dedicated brand experience centres, bringing Livpure closer to consumers in their own neighbourhoods. By bridging the gap between advanced technology and everyday household needs, Livpure aims to simplify the consumer journey, build greater awareness around water quality and empower families to make confident decisions for their well-being.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Rakesh Kaul, Managing Director of Livpure, said, "The opening of our 50th Exclusive Brand Outlet marks an important milestone in Livpure's growth journey and reinforces our commitment to expanding our retail presence across India. As we continue to strengthen our footprint, our focus is on reaching consumers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, making advanced, technology-led home solutions more accessible to households beyond the major metros. Through our expanding network of Exclusive Brand Outlets, we aim to bring consumers closer to our innovations, such as ClearDrop Technology, which goes beyond conventional filtration to address emerging contaminants and deliver cleaner, safer drinking water. As we move forward, we remain committed to taking reliable, innovative and accessible solutions to more homes across the country."
Anchored in Livpure's philosophy of wellness powered by technology, the Delhi outlet brings together the brand's innovations across categories. The store features AIoT-enabled solutions for hands-on exploration, including Livpure's Maintenance Free Water Purifier Series, its Cleardrop Technology Range, 2X Filter Life Water Purifier Range, Voice-Enabled Chimneys, and a portfolio of smart, energy-efficient appliances. Reinforcing the brand's focus on sustainable and future-ready living, the outlet offers live product demonstrations complemented by personalised assistance from trained specialists.
As physical retail continues to play a vital role in building consumer confidence across India's diverse markets, Livpure plans to further accelerate its offline expansion. The company aims to open 100 Exclusive Brand Outlets across key markets over the next financial year, bringing its wellness-focused ecosystem closer to more Indian homes.
About Livpure
Livpure is one of India's most trusted and customer-centric brands. For over 14 years, Livpure has been delivering health, comfort, and innovation to more than 3 million satisfied customers across India. Livpure offers a wide range of wellness-focused products, including water purifiers, subscription-based water purifiers, home appliances, mattresses, sleep accessories, and smart home solutions.
Manufactured and assembled under high hygiene and quality standards in its state-of-the-art R&D facility, each Livpure offering is engineered to minimise environmental impact while ensuring reliability, performance, and design excellence. Supported by a pan-India distribution network and 2500+ certified engineers, Livpure ensures seamless service to households nationwide. As part of the SAR Group, established in 1988, Livpure operates with a long-term commitment to purity, wellness, social equity, and sustainable innovation.
Driven by technocrats and visionaries, the mission is to make “crafted for your wellbeing” a promise in every Indian household.
* The outlet showcases Livpure’s wellness-focused portfolio spanning water purification, kitchen, and air solutions
* The Delhi launch underlines the brand’s expansion into emerging, high-growth markets through an experience-first retail approach
Livpure, a leading brand focused on improving everyday well-being, today announced that it has achieved the milestone of 50 Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) across India with the opening of its Exclusive Brand Outlet in Delhi. The launch marks another step in the brand's efforts to expand its physical retail presence and bring its integrated ecosystem of home wellness solutions closer to consumers, strengthening its commitment to making innovative and reliable solutions more accessible to Indian households.
Driven by its mission to democratise access to safe and pure drinking water, Livpure's expanding EBO network is built on the belief that every household deserves access to the right purification solutions and the knowledge to make informed choices. Going beyond conventional retail, these outlets serve as dedicated brand experience centres, bringing Livpure closer to consumers in their own neighbourhoods. By bridging the gap between advanced technology and everyday household needs, Livpure aims to simplify the consumer journey, build greater awareness around water quality and empower families to make confident decisions for their well-being.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Rakesh Kaul, Managing Director of Livpure, said, "The opening of our 50th Exclusive Brand Outlet marks an important milestone in Livpure's growth journey and reinforces our commitment to expanding our retail presence across India. As we continue to strengthen our footprint, our focus is on reaching consumers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, making advanced, technology-led home solutions more accessible to households beyond the major metros. Through our expanding network of Exclusive Brand Outlets, we aim to bring consumers closer to our innovations, such as ClearDrop Technology, which goes beyond conventional filtration to address emerging contaminants and deliver cleaner, safer drinking water. As we move forward, we remain committed to taking reliable, innovative and accessible solutions to more homes across the country."
Anchored in Livpure's philosophy of wellness powered by technology, the Delhi outlet brings together the brand's innovations across categories. The store features AIoT-enabled solutions for hands-on exploration, including Livpure's Maintenance Free Water Purifier Series, its Cleardrop Technology Range, 2X Filter Life Water Purifier Range, Voice-Enabled Chimneys, and a portfolio of smart, energy-efficient appliances. Reinforcing the brand's focus on sustainable and future-ready living, the outlet offers live product demonstrations complemented by personalised assistance from trained specialists.
As physical retail continues to play a vital role in building consumer confidence across India's diverse markets, Livpure plans to further accelerate its offline expansion. The company aims to open 100 Exclusive Brand Outlets across key markets over the next financial year, bringing its wellness-focused ecosystem closer to more Indian homes.
About Livpure
Livpure is one of India's most trusted and customer-centric brands. For over 14 years, Livpure has been delivering health, comfort, and innovation to more than 3 million satisfied customers across India. Livpure offers a wide range of wellness-focused products, including water purifiers, subscription-based water purifiers, home appliances, mattresses, sleep accessories, and smart home solutions.
Manufactured and assembled under high hygiene and quality standards in its state-of-the-art R&D facility, each Livpure offering is engineered to minimise environmental impact while ensuring reliability, performance, and design excellence. Supported by a pan-India distribution network and 2500+ certified engineers, Livpure ensures seamless service to households nationwide. As part of the SAR Group, established in 1988, Livpure operates with a long-term commitment to purity, wellness, social equity, and sustainable innovation.
Driven by technocrats and visionaries, the mission is to make “crafted for your wellbeing” a promise in every Indian household.
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