Gleneagles BGS Hospital Launches Karnataka's First Dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic

* Multidisciplinary clinic brings hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists and oncologists together under one roof, reducing delays and simplifying care for patients with liver nodules

Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru (part of the Fortis Healthcare Network), has launched Karnataka's first dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic, bringing together specialists across multiple disciplines to provide coordinated evaluation, diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with liver nodules. The clinic is designed to eliminate fragmented care by enabling patients to receive expert opinions and personalised treatment recommendations through a single, integrated care pathway.

Thousands of people are diagnosed with liver nodules every year, often during routine health check-ups or imaging performed for unrelated conditions. While many nodules are harmless, others may require close monitoring or immediate treatment. However, patients frequently struggle to determine which specialist they should consult first, leading to multiple referrals, repeated investigations, delayed diagnoses and unnecessary anxiety.

The Liver Nodule Clinic addresses this gap by offering a multidisciplinary model of care from the very first consultation. Every patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, after which hepatologists, HPB and liver transplant surgeons, gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and nutrition experts collectively review the case and formulate an individualised treatment plan. The clinic also centrally coordinates appointments, investigations and referrals, allowing patients to receive seamless care under one roof.

The clinic manages the complete spectrum of liver nodules, including benign liver cysts, haemangiomas, focal nodular hyperplasia, hepatic adenomas, indeterminate liver lesions, liver cancers, metastatic liver lesions, complex liver tumours and patients requiring liver transplant evaluation. By bringing all relevant expertise together early in the patient's journey, the clinic aims to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce treatment delays and ensure timely clinical decision-making.

The Liver Nodule Clinic was inaugurated by the medical experts who are part of the multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Adarsh C K, HOD & Sr. Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Advanced Endoscopy; Dr. Mahesh Gopasetty, HOD & Lead Consultant, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery; Dr. Dharma Kumar K G, Consultant, Surgical Oncology; Dr. Sindhu V A, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology; Dr. Naveen Chandrashekhar, Consultant, Interventional Radiology; Dr. Ravindra Nidoni, Consultant, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery; and Dr. Vinay Kumar BR- Consultant, Hepatology, Dr Manish Joshi- Senior Consultant - Surgical Gastroenterology, Dr Jeevan G M - Associate Consultant Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Dr Sanjeev Shetty - Consultant Minimal access GI , Bariatric & General surgeon.

Dr. Adarsh C K, HOD & Sr Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Advanced Endoscopy, said: "Liver nodules/cysts are increasingly being detected incidentally because of the growing use of routine imaging. While many are harmless, some may indicate underlying liver disease or early liver cancer, making timely diagnosis critical. The biggest challenge is often distinguishing which nodules need intervention and which can be safely monitored. Our Liver Nodule Clinic brings together specialists from the outset, enabling faster diagnosis, greater clinical confidence and a clear roadmap for every patient."

Dr. Mahesh Gopasetty, HOD & Lead Consultant – Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery, said: “When a liver nodule requires treatment, timing and precision are crucial. Decisions around surgery depend not only on the size and location of the nodule, but also on the liver’s function and the patient’s overall health. By bringing together specialists and investigations as part of a multidisciplinary evaluation from the outset, we can assess each case comprehensively, identify patients who would benefit from timely intervention, determine the most appropriate treatment approach and avoid unnecessary surgery when conservative management is more appropriate.”

Mr Ravi Bagali, COO, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, said: "The launch of Karnataka's first dedicated Liver Nodule Clinic reflects our commitment to delivering patient-centric, multidisciplinary healthcare. We are continuously investing in specialised programmes that simplify the patient journey while ensuring access to advanced clinical expertise. This clinic represents another important step towards providing coordinated, evidence-based care that improves outcomes and enhances the patient experience." 

Godrej Properties And Xynteo Launch Habitat Matters To Accelerate India's Low-Carbon Construction Materials

* A CSR initiative by Godrej Properties (GPL) that will identify, test, and validate low-carbon material innovations.

Godrej Properties (GPL) today announced the launch of Habitat Matters under Godrej Good & Green Labs, innovation arm of Good & Green, Godrej Industries Group in partnership with Xynteo. This is a CSR initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of low-carbon construction materials in India's built environment.

India is in the midst of one of the largest construction booms of any economy in the world. By 2050, the country is expected to have approximately 34 billion square metres of new building stocks, with many studies estimating new construction almost doubling its current levels. Every building constructed in that window locks in its environmental footprint the moment it is built, making today's material choices a decision with consequences that cannot be undone.

Cement, concrete, steel, glass, and blocks that form every wall account for a significant share of construction's carbon impact, and remain among the least addressed challenges in the industry. Habitat Matters is designed to close the gap between promising low-carbon material innovations and their real-world deployment on a live construction project, by identifying credible innovations, piloting them, and evaluating their performance under real conditions.

Over the next five years, Godrej Properties aims to deploy such pilots, building a body of validated, on-ground evidence that can inform how the wider industry builds going forward.

"Godrej Properties has always been at the forefront of sustainability in Indian real estate, and Habitat Matters is our effort to take that a step further. We aim to bridge the gap between promising ideas and what can actually be deployed on a live site. Through this, innovators get engineering rigour, a real site to test innovations in agile and real-world dynamic conditions and evaluations that will help create new industry standards," said Rohit Mohan, Chief Design and Sustainability Officer, Godrej Properties.

"India's growth story over the next decade will be written in the choices we make about how we build. At Good & Green Labs, we exist to take on the big hairy problems the industry hasn't cracked yet, and low-carbon construction materials is one of the biggest. We don't believe in solving these in isolation; every solution we back is built in partnership with people who understand the science and the ground reality. We aim to build solutions that the wider real estate ecosystem can adopt, scale and take the entire industry forward," said Pakzan Dastoor, Head, Good & Green, Godrej Industries Group.

Suman Jagdev, Partner, Xynteo, said, "India does not necessarily have an innovation problem in low-carbon materials. It has a deployment and adoption challenge. Habitat Matters creates the bridge that the market has been missing, connecting promising solutions with live construction projects, real site conditions and supported by enabling policy. It provides a platform that helps to establish commercial credibility based on proven performance and lays the foundation that can eventually deliver scale."

Habitat Matters has opened a Request for Applications (RFA), inviting start-ups, research institutions, material manufacturers, and technology providers to apply. Through this open call, the programme will identify low-carbon material solutions and support their journey from lab-tested innovation to site-validated solution.

The programme focuses on five priority material categories — cement, concrete, steel, blocks, and glass — as well as bio-based alternatives and other deployable embodied carbon solutions. Innovations at TRL 5 and above are eligible to apply. Selected applicants will have the opportunity to pilot their innovations within active construction projects and will receive structured technical and commercialisation support to accelerate adoption.

Applications should be submitted to Habitat.Matters@xynteo.com in a maximum five-slide format (PPT or Word file) by 15th October 2026.

About G&G

Good & Green is the CSR and sustainability vertical for Godrej Industries Group (GIG), driving the Group's commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth across its businesses. Guided by the vision of crafting a better world for every generation, Good & Green works across entities, shaping sustainability strategy, CSR programming, and social impact initiatives around three pillars: Thriving Communities, which empowers frontline and under-represented communities across India to live healthier, more prosperous lives; Industry Innovation, which spearheads innovations and platforms in partnership with industry and academia to address industry level challenges; and Sustainability Excellence, which drives future-ready practices for sustainable business excellence across the GIG ecosystem.

About Godrej Properties Limited

At Godrej Properties, part of the Godrej Industries Group, we are driven by a singular purpose: crafting joy. Over 100,000 families have found a home with us, making us India’s largest residential developer by both value and volume of homes sold. As part of the Godrej Industries Group, we combine a 129-year legacy of trust and excellence with a forward-looking vision to shape the future of urban India.

Our approach is anchored in thoughtful design, sustainability, thriving communities, and uncompromising quality. As of December 2025, we were ranked the number one real estate company worldwide on both the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Sustainability Indices and the Global Real Estate.

For more information visit www.godrejproperties.com

About Xynteo

Xynteo is a specialist business advisory firm, based in Europe and India, on a mission to help global organisations and investors accelerate sustainable impact and value creation.​

In a market dominated by traditional consultancies, Xynteo is disrupting the status quo. Our work goes beyond ‘just strategy’ to transform complex decarbonisation, energy transition and circularity challenges into practical, actionable pathways for commercial success. By forging long-term partnerships with our clients, leveraging our expertise and extensive alliance ecosystem, we empower companies to identify, realise, and scale opportunities at all stages of their value creation journey.​

Our tailored solutions help organisations achieve meaningful, measurable results. We unlock systemic challenges through collaboration, devise sustainable value strategies, bring to life economically viable transformation, and generate impact across the investor portfolio lifecycle.​

Learn more about us at www.xynteo.com

Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road In Association With Agilus Diagnostics Launches Agilus-Fortis Cardio-Renal-Metabolic Clinic

* New clinic brings together Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Nephrology and Endocrinology under one coordinated care model to address the growing burden of Cardio-Renal-Metabolic health –

Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, in collaboration with Agilus Diagnostics, today launched Agilus-Fortis Clinic, an integrated clinic in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, dedicated to comprehensive Heart, Kidney and Metabolic Health. The initiative brings together specialists in Interventional Cardiology, Heart Failure, Nephrology and Endocrinology under a unified, multidisciplinary care model. Recognizing the close interconnection between cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and diabetes, the clinic is designed to provide patients with coordinated assessment, early identification of health risks and comprehensive, integrated management. By bringing multiple specialties together under one roof, Agilus-Fortis Clinic aims to deliver a seamless approach to the prevention, early detection and management of interconnected cardio-renal-metabolic health conditions.

The launch comes at a time when the growing interplay between cardiovascular, renal and metabolic disorders is emerging as a significant healthcare challenge. Diabetes, kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions are closely interconnected, with one condition often increasing the risk or severity of another. Through its integrated care model, the clinic aims to address this interconnected disease continuum by bringing together specialists from multiple disciplines for coordinated assessment, early intervention and comprehensive patient management. The multidisciplinary team at Agilus-Fortis comprises of Dr. Rajpal Singh R L, Director – Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road; Dr. Aashish Parekh, Senior Consultant – Nephrology; and Dr. Anusha N D, Consultant – Endocrinology.

The clinic is guided by the philosophy “Three Specialties. One Team. Your Health. Our Commitment.” Through collaboration between the three specialties, Agilus-Fortis aims to provide patients with a more seamless care pathway spanning cardiac, renal and metabolic health. Agilus-Fortis Clinic, Basavanagudi is located at No. 49/2, Nittoor Square, S Kariappa Road, Opposite Balaji Medical, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru – 560004.

Speaking on the launch, Dr. Rajpal Singh R L, Director – Interventional Cardiology & Heart Failure, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “Heart, kidney and metabolic health are closely interconnected, and patients living with diabetes or kidney disease may also face a heightened risk of cardiovascular complications. These conditions can influence and worsen one another over time. By bringing these specialties together, we can take a more holistic view of each patient, identify interconnected risks at an earlier stage and develop a coordinated, personalized approach to treatment and long-term care.”

Dr. Suneet Kaur, Technical Lead - South Agilus Diagnostics, Head of Lab Operations - Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “The collaboration between Agilus Diagnostics and Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, brings together advanced diagnostic capabilities and specialised clinical expertise to create a more seamless and coordinated care pathway for patients. Through the Agilus-Fortis Clinic, our aim is to simplify access to the right specialists and timely diagnostic evaluation, enabling patients to receive comprehensive care through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach.”

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Ananth Rao, VP & Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, said, “At Fortis, we continue to look at healthcare models that respond to the evolving needs of patients. Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and diabetes often intersect, and managing these conditions effectively requires collaboration across specialties. Agilus-Fortis Clinic brings together this expertise in a coordinated model, with the aim of supporting earlier risk identification, comprehensive management and better continuity of care for patients.”

All New Kia Sorento Unveiled; Production Begins At Its Anantapur Factory In India

* The official launch will take place on 04 September 2026, Kia India and pre-bookings via dealerships and Kia India website are already open

Kia India releases first official images of the all-new Kia Sorento unveiled; Built in India for India, it is bold and showcases a progressive design language and a bold SUV stance Kia Sorento, manufactured at Kia India's Anantapur factory.

Launched, the first locally manufactured unit is a manufacturing out of line Sorento is Kia's first hybrid SUV with AWD for India. The brand's globally renowned premium flagship SUV by bringing its premium SUV to Indian customers further strengthened the portfolio.

It is also available in a diesel powertrain, it offers customers both hybrid and diesel options. It brought a choice between Kia AI Assistant, powered by Live Generative AI, available in India..

Making its global debut with the upcoming Sorento It is the first Kia model to introduce the technology and It is the first model in the Indian automotive industry.

The official launch will take place on 04 September 2026, Kia India and pre-bookings via dealerships and Kia India website are already open.

The country's leading group-Premium Kia India, one of the leading automakers, today launched its premium flagship. The first official images of the Kia Sorento SUV have been released, along with the India launch. Sorento, for India, Kia's first hybrid SUV and new premium three-row SUV.

The brand's global SUV design, marking the brand's entry into the category. Bringing the ideology to Indian consumers, with a bold stance, unique design elements, It combines sophisticated interiors and a premium AUV experience. Kia India expands its premium SUV portfolio in a context of strengthening, state-of-the-art technology built in India for India.

The debut of the Kia Sorento marks a major milestone in its product offering in the country. indicates expansion. Official images, its introduction as a premium family SUV shaped by a bold and progressive design language that reiterates the essence of the SUV's size and presence are emphasized. Its confident stance from the proportions and unique exterior details to its immediate and subtle. Every aspect of the Kia Sorento, right down to the interiors, reflects Kia's ever-changing reflecting a global design language, its premium SUV appeal It has increased even more.

Kia Sorento hits a major milestone ahead of its India debut Kia India has started production at its Anantapur factory, the first locally manufactured unit rolled off the production line today. This production start marks a new chapter for Kia India with Sorento launched, the brand's globally renowned premium SUV bringing it closer to customers.

Kia India's Anantapur plant, production in 2019 and since its inception, India has been a production base for the brand's journey. The Kia Sorento is also part of Kia India's multi-power train journey and a great step forward. Kia India's all-wheel drive for India electrification in a premium SUV, becoming the first hybrid SUV and enhanced driving capability. Sorento diesel power is also available on the train, it gives customers the freedom to drive and own their own cars. Now choosing between hybrid and diesel based on requirements gives freedom.

Further strengthening its premium and technology-oriented proposition Sorento, Kia AI Assistant with Live Generative AI capabilities. The Sorento, which will be launched in India, will introduce this technology globally.

In addition to being the first Sorento to be introduced, Kia's global production line-The entire line up will also be the first entry into generative AI. Traditional Voice Unlike assistants, live generative AI provides access to real-time Provide opportunities for timely, active conversations and continuous new information Making every journey smarter, more informed, by providing and it will be more personalized..

Speaking about the unveiling and production start, Kia India Managing Director and CEO Mr. Gwanggu Lee said, “Sorento, Kia has long been a global symbol of SUV leadership, and has been recognized internationally as Kia's most established flagship SUV, gaining customer trust across markets. One of the names. Its entry into India is our premium.

It is a defining moment for the portfolio. Today marks the opening of our Anantapur factory.

The first locally produced Sorento rolls off the production line. We are proud to present this globally renowned premium flagship SUV through. We are taking a major step forward in bringing this to Indian consumers. Kia's vision for the country. The first hybrid SUV and a powerful diesel powertrain to complement it. The Sorento, which is here, demonstrates our commitment to providing meaningful choices to customers.

The launch of the Sorento in India marks the debut of Line Generative AI. With its global introduction, this is a major milestone for Kia and a first for the Indian automotive industry. Sorento for India.

These are the first images as we prepare to introduce what's next. "It's just a bird's eye view of what's to come," he said.

Pre-orders are available through Kia India dealerships and the official website Kia India.

Bookings are already open.

The Kia Sorento will make its official India debut on 04 September 2026.

Your Go-To List for The Perfect Tech Gifts, This Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the bond between siblings and the many shared moments that make it special. From exchanging gifts and catching up over family meals to listening to music, staying connected, pursuing hobbies, or simply spending time together, the occasion is a chance to celebrate the different personalities and interests that make every sibling relationship unique. A thoughtful gift that fits naturally into their everyday lives can make the occasion even more meaningful.

This Raksha Bandhan, whether you are looking for something for a music lover, a tech enthusiast, a creator, or someone who enjoys spending time with family, there are plenty of options to consider. From personal audio and portable entertainment to smart devices and kitchen essentials, these picks combine everyday utility with features designed around different interests, making them thoughtful gifts for every kind of sibling.

Sony WF-1000XM6: For siblings who always have music playing, whether during their commute, while working, or simply while relaxing at home, a pair of premium earbuds can become an everyday companion. The Sony WF-1000XM6 brings the latest 1000X series experience to a compact, truly wireless form factor, making it a thoughtful choice for those who appreciate detailed sound and uninterrupted listening.

The WF-1000XM6 features Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, Integrated Processor V2, Multi Noise Sensor technology, and an 8.4mm driver unit for a detailed listening experience. It supports LDAC, DSEE Extreme, Ambient Sound Mode, and multipoint connectivity, while offering up to 8 hours of playback with Noise Cancelling enabled and up to 12 hours with it switched off. With an IPX4 water-resistance rating and quick charging support, the earbuds are designed to keep up with everyday listening, from commutes and workouts to winding down with a favourite playlist.

Price: INR 35,990

Philips OneChef: This Raksha Bandhan, go beyond traditional gifting with a thoughtful choice that adds convenience to everyday life. The Philips OneChef brings together 33 cooking functions from air frying and steaming to stir-frying and boiling into one versatile appliance, making it an ideal gift for siblings setting up a new home, exploring cooking, or simply looking to make everyday meals easier. Its all-in-one design helps simplify the kitchen while offering the flexibility to prepare a wide variety of dishes.

Thoughtfully designed with Indian cooking needs in mind, OneChef combines convenience, versatility and culinary creativity, making it a practical yet meaningful Raksha Bandhan gift for a sibling who loves good food and smarter living.Whether it's preparing a festive meal, experimenting with new recipes, or putting together a special dinner, the Philips OneChef turns cooking into an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones.

Price: INR 19,995

Sony WH-1000XM6: Some gifts become part of a sibling's daily routine, and premium headphones can be a particularly thoughtful choice for anyone who enjoys music, podcasts, movies, or simply some uninterrupted time. The Sony WH-1000XM6 combines its flagship audio experience with a new Olive Grey finish, giving the headphones a distinctive new look while retaining the performance and features of the existing model.

Powered by Sony's HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 and an advanced 12-microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 uses an adaptive microphone system to optimise noise cancellation in real time. The headphones also feature sound co-created with mastering engineers, support high-resolution audio, and offer multipoint connectivity for switching between devices, making them suited to everything from work and travel to relaxed music listening.

Price: INR 39,990

HMD Vibe 2 5G: For siblings who appreciate practical technology that keeps them connected, the HMD Vibe2 5G makes for a thoughtful Raksha Bandhan gift. The smartphone features a 6000mAh battery for dependable all-day usage, Android 16 for a seamless software experience, and 5G connectivity to help users stay connected wherever life takes them.

The inclusion of Indus by Sarvam AI, bringing India-first AI experiences with support for 22 Indian languages, makes everyday interactions simpler and more intuitive. The device also comes with Sanchar Saathi integration, adding an extra layer of digital safety by helping users verify their device and access essential mobile security services with ease.

The HMD Vibe2 5G is equipped with a 50MP AI dual rear camera and an 8MP front camera, making it easy to capture everyday moments, celebrations, and memories with family. Powered by the Unisoc T8200 processor, the smartphone is available in 4GB + 128GB and 6GB + 128GB variants, priced at ₹16,999 and ₹18,999, respectively, on Flipkart, and comes in three distinctive colours: Nordic Blue, Peach Pink, and Cosmic Lavender.

Price: INR 18,999

Sony ULT FIELD 5: Every family has the sibling who is in charge of the playlist, whether it is during a weekend get-together, a road trip, or an evening spent with friends. The Sony ULT FIELD 5 is designed for those moments, bringing powerful sound, portability, and visual elements together in a speaker that can easily become part of the celebration.

Featuring the dedicated ULT button for enhanced bass and 360° Party Light, the ULT FIELD 5 delivers powerful sound while adding a visual element to music sessions. It offers up to 24 hours of battery life, IP67 water, dust, and shock resistance, and a stowable shoulder strap for easier portability. Quick charging provides up to 2 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge, making it a practical option for siblings who like to take their music with them.

Price: INR 24,990

Sony LinkBuds Clip: Some siblings prefer to keep their music close without completely tuning out everything happening around them. Whether they are heading out for a walk, meeting friends, working through the day, or simply listening to a podcast while going about their routine, the Sony LinkBuds Clip offers a different approach to everyday listening.

Its open-ear design with a lightweight clip-on form factor allows users to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music. The LinkBuds Clip also features three listening modes, including Standard, Voice Boost, and Sound Leakage Reduction, along with AI-based voice pickup for clearer calls. With up to 37 hours of playback, water resistance, and a compact design, they are built for siblings who like to stay connected to both their music and their surroundings throughout the day.

Price: INR 18,990

Sony WF-C710N: Whether it is a daily commute, a workout session, a long study day, or simply some time spent listening to favourite songs, a reliable pair of earbuds can make everyday routines more enjoyable. The Sony WF-C710N brings together noise cancellation, comfortable design, and useful everyday features, making it a practical gift for siblings who prefer something they can use throughout the day.

The WF-C710N features Dual Noise Sensor technology with two microphones for Noise Cancelling, along with Ambient Sound Mode for staying aware of the surroundings when needed. It offers up to 8.5 hours of playback on the earbuds and 21.5 hours through the charging case, for up to 30 hours of total listening, while a 5-minute quick charge provides up to an hour of playback. DSEE, AI-based voice pickup, multipoint connectivity, and IPX4 water resistance further add to its everyday versatility.

Price: INR 8,990

Sony ZV-E10 II: From travel photos and weekend outings to vlogs, food videos, and everyday moments shared on social media, some siblings naturally turn their experiences into content. The Sony ZV-E10 II makes a thoughtful choice for those who enjoy photography and video creation, combining interchangeable lenses with creator-focused features in a lightweight and portable camera.

The ZV-E10 II features a 26MP APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR™ image processing engine, supporting 4K video recording at up to 60p. It also includes Creative Look, Cinematic Vlog settings, vertical shooting, and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity for easier sharing, while the high-capacity NP-FZ100 battery supports extended shooting. The included 16-50mm Power Zoom lens also gives creators a versatile starting point for capturing everything from portraits and travel moments to everyday videos.

Price: INR 88,990

Cellecor CBS-05 Opera: Cellecor CBS-05 Opera: For the sibling who can turn any family gathering into a full-blown celebration, the Cellecor CBS-05 Opera makes for a fun and feature-packed Raksha Bandhan gift. Built for music, karaoke and entertainment, the speaker delivers 20W output with 20+ hours of playback, making it ready for everything from festive gatherings to impromptu karaoke nights.

Its dual wireless microphones let siblings take centre stage, while six voice-changing modes add a playful twist to performances. 10 colourful LED lights create a lively ambience, while Bluetooth 5.3, AUX, TF and USB support offer multiple ways to play music. With an 1800mAh battery, the CBS-05 Opera brings portability and entertainment together, making it a fitting pick for siblings who love music and being the life of the party.

Price: INR 3,499

The best Raksha Bandhan gifts are those that reflect the person receiving them and become a part of the moments they enjoy every day. Whether it is listening to a favourite playlist, capturing family memories, cooking together, staying connected, or adding music to a get-together, the right technology can make these experiences more enjoyable.

With options spanning entertainment, personal audio, smartphones, cooking, and content creation, this selection offers something for different interests, personalities, and everyday routines. This Raksha Bandhan, choose a gift that goes beyond the occasion and gives your sibling something they can continue to enjoy long after the celebrations are over. 

Cosmo First Showcasing Specialty Films-Led Growth Strategy At ElitePlus++

* As Flexible Packaging Industry Shifts Towards Performance And Sustainability
Cosmo First, a leading global conglomerate into multiple businesses, is participating in ElitePlus++ as the Platinum Sponsor of the 13th Speciality Films & Flexible Packaging Global Summit & Exhibition 2026, organised by ElitePlus++ Business Services. The two-day summit, being held on August 26-27, 2026, at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, brings together stakeholders from the specialty films, flexible packaging, plastics, converting and sustainable packaging ecosystem.

Cosmo First’s participation comes at a time when the packaging industry is witnessing a growing shift towards high-performance, application-specific and sustainable film solutions. The company has been steadily increasing its focus on specialty and semi-specialty films. The specialty films portfolio has grown at around 10% CAGR, reflecting the company’s strategy of moving towards higher-value applications.

At the summit, Cosmo First will engage with industry stakeholders on the evolving role of specialty films in enabling packaging solutions that combine performance, functionality, efficiency and sustainability. The company’s portfolio spans packaging, lamination, labelling and industrial applications, with Cosmo Films being globally among the top four players in BOPP specialty films, the second-largest player globally in specialty label films and the world’s largest supplier of thermal lamination films and industrial application films. Offerings from Cosmo Speciality Chemicals and Cosmo Plastech are also being displayed at the exhibition. Further, during the conference, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, addressed the audience sharing his views on how new age premium packaging can be performance driven, built with purpose and still be profitable – sharing insights from Cosmo First’s successful strategies.

Commenting on the company’s participation, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First, said, “The packaging industry is undergoing a fundamental shift, with brands and converters increasingly looking for materials that deliver higher functionality while addressing sustainability requirements. Specialty films are at the centre of this transition. Our journey at Cosmo First has been focused on building capabilities across high-value applications, backed by investments in capacity, R&D and sustainability. The ElitePlus++ Global Summit provides an important platform to engage with the industry on how innovation in packaging materials can shape the next phase of flexible packaging.”

Cosmo First has been strengthening its innovation-led specialty films portfolio through solutions such as Cosmo Green Graphic Films (PVC-free), chemically recycled PCR BOPP films, heat-resistant BOPP films, synthetic paper and specialised barrier films. Its sustainability efforts also include developing mono-material structures, improving material yield and offering alternatives to conventional materials in specific applications. The company has also significantly expanded its R&D capabilities, with 30+ R&D professionals and dedicated laboratories in India and the US.

Through its participation as Platinum Sponsor, Cosmo First will bring together its expertise in specialty films, flexible packaging and sustainable material solutions, while contributing to discussions around the future of the packaging ecosystem and the industry’s transition towards more performance-driven and responsible solutions.

About Cosmo First Ltd.:

Established in 1981 by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First Limited is a four-decade-old global conglomerate. Its consumer vertical comprises Cosmo Consumer – covering Window Films, Paint Protection Films, and Ceramic Coatings for automobiles – and Zigly Pet Care, a digital-first omnichannel pet care ecosystem. Its industrial vertical includes Cosmo Films (specialty films for packaging, labels, lamination, and industrial applications), Cosmo Speciality Chemicals (coatings, adhesives, and masterbatches), and Cosmo Plastech (rigid packaging). With sustainable innovation and R&D at its core, Cosmo First serves customers across 100+ countries.  

Gopalpur Industrial Park (GIP) By Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Emerges As Eastern India's Green Industrial Hub

* Over ₹65,000 Crores investment pipeline strengthens Gopalpur's emergence as a leading green industrial hub

* Proposed ₹10,000 Crores Tata Power Renewable Energy investment enhances the Park's clean energy equipment manufacturing ecosystem

* Honoured with ‘Smart Industrial Park’ Award by Maritime Gateway for excellence in industrial infrastructure and innovation

Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited (TSSEZL) has strengthened its position as one of India's leading green industrial developers with the recently proposed Green Ammonia Project at its Gopalpur Industrial Park (GIP), located in Ganjam district of Odisha, reinforcing the Park's emergence as a major hub for green energy equipment and advanced manufacturing in eastern India.

The latest initiative to advance green energy in the state is the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between the Government of Odisha, Japan-based IHI Corporation, ACME Group, and TSSEZL. The agreement concerns a proposal to set up a 0.4 MTPA Green Ammonia Plant and a jetty-less floating terminal at Gopalpur Industrial Park, strengthening Odisha's clean energy ecosystem.

Manikanta Naik, Managing Director, Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited (TSSEZL), said, "Our vision of transcending Gopalpur Industrial Park as a globally competitive industrial destination is coming true. Major infrastructure projects for the supply of power and water to the Industrial Park by the Government of Odisha has aided this cause. We remain committed to creating world-class infrastructure and an investor-friendly ecosystem that enables sustainable industrial growth. The confidence shown by leading national and international companies reinforces TSSEZL's role in driving investments, creating employment, and supporting Odisha's vision of becoming a leading hub for green industries in the country."

Further strengthening the Park's renewable energy equipment manufacturing ecosystem, Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited and Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL) have executed a binding land transfer agreement for TPREL's proposed investment of ₹10,000 Crores at Gopalpur Industrial Park. The proposed project will focus on the manufacture of solar ingots and wafers, supporting India's clean energy ambitions while enhancing Gopalpur's position as a key hub for green energy equipment manufacturing.

Recently, GIP has been honoured with the ‘Smart Industrial Park’ award by Maritime Gateway in recognition of its excellence in industrial infrastructure and innovation. The award was presented as part of the Smart Logistics Summit & Awards 2026 held at Bhubaneswar.

With its strategic east coast location, robust port, rail and highway connectivity, availability of land in both Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Domestic Tariff Area (DTA), and expanding clean energy and manufacturing ecosystem, Gopalpur Industrial Park continues to attract marquee investments, reinforcing TSSEZL's role in driving industrialisation, sustainable manufacturing and Odisha's emergence as a globally competitive green industrial hub.

The Park has drawn leading domestic and global investors across sectors such as green hydrogen, renewable energy equipment manufacturing, specialty chemicals, tyres, mineral processing and food processing. Companies including Avaada GreenH2, Ocior Energy, Hygenco, Saatvik Solar Industries, World Green Energy, Superform Chemistries (UPL), SRF Limited, Deepak Mining Solutions (Deepak Fertilisers & Petrochemicals Group), ATC Tires (Yokohama Group), Tata Steel and Tata Consumer Products, among others, have either established or announced projects at the Park, transforming Gopalpur into a rapidly expanding new age industrial cluster. Out of these industries, Acme, Avaada GreenH2 and Hygenco have decided to set up their mega industries in the SEZ, while others have opted for land parcels in DTA. TSSEZL's long-term vision of creating a future-ready industrial ecosystem has attracted a cumulative investment pipeline of over ₹65,400 Crores, making Gopalpur Industrial Park one of eastern India's fastest-growing industrial destinations.

The ongoing and proposed projects reinforce TSSEZL's robust industrial ecosystem and reflects growing global investor confidence in Odisha as a preferred manufacturing destination. It is expected to strengthen the industrial value chain, generate significant direct and indirect employment, and support India's low-carbon manufacturing transition.

Developed by Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited, a 100% subsidiary of the steel major Tata Steel, Gopalpur Industrial Park spans nearly 2,970 Acres and has rapidly evolved into one of the country's most promising industrial destinations. Designed as an integrated, plug-and-play manufacturing ecosystem, the Park offers world-class infrastructure, including internal road networks, reliable power and water supply, drainage systems, blanket environmental clearance, multi-modal connectivity and seamless access to Gopalpur Port through a dedicated utility corridor, enabling industries to establish operations efficiently.

SonicWall Deepens India Focus With Expanded R&D Investment, AI Innovation, Growth Strategy, Plans To Hire 400+ Engineers

* CRO Patrick O’Donnell meets Indian partners, shares global cybersecurity innovation roadmap

SonicWall today reaffirmed India’s role as a strategic growth and innovation hub as Patrick O’Donnell, Chief Revenue Officer, SonicWall, visits the country to meet with customers, partners, industry stakeholders and media.

“India is one of SonicWall’s fastest growing and most important markets in the APJ region, Rapid digitization, cloud adoption, hybrid work and the growing dependence on connected technologies are driving demand for robust, scalable and outcome-driven cybersecurity solutions across enterprises, government, healthcare, education, retail and the small and midsize business (SMB) segment”, shared Mr. Patrick O’Donnell.

O’Donnell’s visit underscores SonicWall’s plans to deepen its presence in India through continued investments in technology, engineering talent, channel partnerships and managed security services, while leveraging the country’s strong technology ecosystem to support innovation for customers globally.

India: A strategic hub for SonicWall’s global innovation

SonicWall has established a significant engineering and research presence in India, with its Bengaluru R&D centre representing the company’s second-largest investment globally. The centre plays an important role in developing technologies that contribute directly to SonicWall’s global product portfolio.

As part of its continued investment in India, SonicWall plans to create 400 new engineering roles focused on areas including artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, cybersecurity research and next-generation platform development.

A significant portion of SonicWall’s engineering organization is already based in India, with teams in Bengaluru working on AI-driven detection, threat prediction and platform capabilities deployed globally. SonicWall has been incorporating AI into its cybersecurity platform for more than seven years, and India has played an important role in that journey.

“India is central to SonicWall’s next phase of growth. It is not only an important market for us, but increasingly a place where we build and shape the technology that we deliver globally. The depth of AI and cybersecurity talent in India gives us an opportunity to accelerate innovation while supporting the country's rapidly expanding digital economy,”.

He further added, “Our Bengaluru R&D centre is a significant global investment for SonicWall. As we expand that base, India will play an even greater role in defining our technology roadmap, particularly around AI-native security, threat prediction and the future of cybersecurity.”

Accelerating growth across SMBs and the broader digital economy

SonicWall sees significant growth opportunities across India’s SMB, SME and micro-SMB segments, where digital transformation is accelerating but cybersecurity resources and expertise can often be limited.

The company believes organizations are increasingly moving beyond a product-centric approach to cybersecurity and looking for measurable, long-term outcomes: continuous protection, simplified security operations and the ability to respond to evolving threats without adding complexity.

SonicWall’s strategy in India is therefore focused on delivering security across network, cloud, endpoint and Zero Trust environments, while enabling partners and managed security service providers (MSSPs) to deliver cybersecurity as an ongoing service.

“Customers are no longer simply looking for products; they are looking for outcomes. They want to know that their businesses will remain protected consistently and over the long term. This is where our partners and MSSPs become critical to our strategy,” said O’Donnell.

Building a stronger partner and MSSP ecosystem

SonicWall is also strengthening its partner ecosystem as businesses increasingly look to managed security services to address the complexity and skills shortage associated with cybersecurity.

The company is working to help partners move beyond traditional product resale toward delivering managed detection, monitoring, response and security outcomes as services. SonicWall’s Service Provider Program and SecureFirst partner tracks are designed to support this evolution.

For managed service providers and managed security service providers, AI-assisted security operations can help reduce the staffing and operational burden associated with monitoring and responding to threats, while enabling them to scale their services across a larger customer base.

SonicWall’s long-term relationships with MSSPs and channel partners remain a key differentiator in its India strategy, enabling the company to extend cybersecurity capabilities to organizations across the country.

Addressing the fundamentals of cyber resilience

As AI reshapes the cybersecurity landscape, SonicWall believes organizations must not lose sight of the fundamentals of cyber hygiene.

Identity and credential-based attacks continue to represent a significant source of risk, while vulnerabilities associated with legacy remote-access technologies, weak access controls, inconsistent patching and reactive security practices can leave organizations exposed.

“The biggest mistake organizations can make is to assume that AI is the reason breaches happen. AI is changing the threat landscape, but attackers continue to exploit fundamental weaknesses such as compromised credentials, poor access control and unpatched systems. Cyber resilience starts with getting those fundamentals right and executing them consistently,” O’Donnell said.

India positioned to shape SonicWall’s global roadmap

With its combination of a rapidly growing digital economy, a large and increasingly sophisticated SMB market, strong technology talent and an established channel ecosystem, India is expected to play an increasingly important role in SonicWall’s global growth and innovation strategy.

The company’s investments in engineering, AI, cloud security and cybersecurity research reinforce its ambition to make India not only a key market for SonicWall’s solutions, but also a centre for developing the technologies that will define the company’s future.

“India has the talent, scale and digital momentum to be a major force in cybersecurity innovation. Our ambition is to leverage that opportunity in both directions — helping Indian organizations secure their growth while using the capabilities we build in India to protect customers around the world,” concluded O’Donnell.

About SonicWall (www.sonicwall.com)

For more than 30 years, SonicWall has championed a partner-first model that combines purpose-built technology, cloud-delivered security services and real-time threat intelligence to help businesses prevent breaches, reduce risk and stay operational in the face of evolving modern threats. We are committed to delivering the best security outcomes for our customers where others deliver features and functions. Through its unified cybersecurity portfolio and global community of over 17,000 partners, SonicWall enables managed service providers to actively manage, continuously optimize and measurably protect networks, cloud environments, endpoints and applications. The company is redefining cybersecurity around outcomes that matter to business leaders, including breach prevention, compliance achievement, cost efficiency and reduced human error, because protection is not about what a product can do but about what it actually delivers.

Lam Research Breaks Ground On New Oregon Lab To Accelerate AI Era Semiconductor Research & Development Locally, Globally

* State-of-the-art, Silicon Forest facility to support collaborative innovation with chip makers; first milestone in more than $3B planned expansion of global lab network

In a ceremony today at its world-class research and development (R&D) center in Tualatin, Oregon, Lam Research Corp. (NASDAQ: LRCX) commemorated the start of construction on its new, state-of-the-art Oregon lab, part of a more than $3 billion planned investment in its global lab network over the next five years to accelerate breakthroughs for the creation of advanced AI chips. Located in the Silicon Forest, in close proximity to key customers, the new 120,000-square-foot facility is expected to increase cleanroom lab space at the Lam Tualatin R&D center by more than 50% when completed, enabling expanded experimentation and accelerated solution development. Lam plans to make the new facility one of its most advanced labs in the world, increasing capacity and capabilities for side-by-side innovation with customers and compressing product development cycles across its global lab network.

President and Chief Executive Officer Tim Archer and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Sesha Varadarajan of Lam Research were joined at the groundbreaking event by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon: U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon; Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read; senior leaders from Intel Corporation and Micron Technology; and other distinguished government, community and nonprofit leaders.

“Delivering next-generation semiconductors at the speed of AI requires relentless innovation and a strategic focus on the technology breakthroughs that matter most to our customers. Our new advanced Oregon lab is expected to deepen our specialized capabilities and add tens of thousands of square feet of valuable cleanroom space, enabling even closer collaboration with customers while strengthening the expertise and reach of our global lab network,” said Varadarajan. “This expansion reflects our continuing commitment to advancing the Silicon Forest as a leader in U.S. semiconductor innovation. We thank the State of Oregon, Washington County, and the City of Tualatin for their long-standing partnership and look forward to continuing our work together to advance economic opportunities in a community we’ve been proud to be part of for more than 30 years.”

Expanding the Power of Lam’s Global Lab Network

The new Oregon lab will build on Lam’s strengths as a leader in atomic-scale semiconductor manufacturing, adding specialized capabilities to support advanced deposition and etch process development, materials science, and hardware validation. Just like in Lam’s existing labs, customers can work closely on-site in the new facility with Lam engineers through each phase of product development, from idea to deployment in their fabs. The lab will also join Lam’s integrated network of specialized labs around the world, which operate together to drive innovation 24/7, in parallel and at scale.

Advancing Lam’s Leadership in the Silicon Forest

Projected to open in 2028, the new state-of-the-art Oregon lab is part of a planned multibuilding expansion at Lam’s Tualatin campus. According to a third-party assessment*, over the three-year construction period, the expansion project is expected to create approximately 900 jobs and $500 million in economic output **.

Once completed, the expansion is expected to represent the company’s biggest investment in Oregon to date, with a projected economic impact* that includes creating more than 400 new Lam jobs and bolstering the number of jobs that Lam supports statewide to more than 11,000*. In addition, the completed expansion is projected to increase Lam’s annual economic contribution in Oregon to more than $1.8 billion.*

Additional speakers at today’s ceremony included Katheryn Harrington, chair of the Washington County Board of Commissioners, Valerie Pratt, President of the Tualatin City Council and Jayathi Murthy, president of Oregon State University. Photos and other digital assets from the event can be found later today at the Media Center.

QUOTES

U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon:

“I support investing in Oregon’s economy and workers, and Lam Research’s Tualatin Expansion project does both. This expansion will provide hundreds of good-paying, high-tech jobs and further position Oregon’s Silicon Forest as a leader in semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing. The work that happens here will enable advances in all of the latest cutting-edge industries, including vital technologies like AI and robotics.”

U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon:

“Innovation, research, and development fuel Oregon's international semiconductor leadership. Congratulations to Lam Research on the groundbreaking of their new R&D building and thank you for investing in our region and the local workforce.”

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek:

"This state-of-the-art expansion builds on more than 30 years of Lam's innovation leadership in the Silicon Forest. This is a powerful investment towards Oregon's economic future that will create more high-quality jobs, strengthen the state’s world-class research and development ecosystem, and help ensure Oregon and the United States continue to lead in semiconductor innovation for decades to come."

Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read:

“Lam Research’s continued investment in Oregon is a testament to the strength of our state’s semiconductor ecosystem and the talented workforce that powers it. This groundbreaking represents more than a new facility. It represents hundreds of new jobs, accelerated innovation, and a long-term commitment to Oregon. I’m proud to celebrate this important milestone and Lam’s ongoing growth as a leader in the Silicon Forest.”

Naga Chandrasekaran, executive vice president and chief technology and operations officer of Intel Foundry:

"Intel has enjoyed close collaboration with Lam in Oregon and around the world for decades. With this new lab facility, we look forward to working even more closely together to accelerate process development at chip scale, quickly evaluate new technologies, and deliver the breakthroughs required for the next generation of AI-driven computing."

Manish Bhatia, executive vice president of Global Operations at Micron Technology:

"AI marks a historic inflection point for the semiconductor industry, driving exceptional demand for memory and increasing the need for greater speed, scale and manufacturing capacity. We congratulate Lam Research on today's groundbreaking and look forward to deepening our longstanding collaboration to equip Micron for significant manufacturing expansion to keep pace with the AI era."

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. Learn more at www.lamresearch.com.

* Source: Results generated by IMPLAN®, 2026 Model Year, using inputs provided by Lam and IMPLAN Group LLC, IMPLAN System data and software.

** $500 million projected impact from construction project; limited to three-year construction period only. Result generated by IMPLAN*.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this press release that are not of historical fact are forward-looking statements and are subject to the safe harbor provisions created by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “accelerate,” “advance,” “can,” “commit,” “continue,” “drive,” “expect,” “expand,” “focus,” “grow,” “look forward,” “long-term,” “ongoing,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “project,” “require,” “strategy,” “will,” or variations of these words or other similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: our planned investment in our global lab network to accelerate breakthroughs; the development timeline and expected benefits of the new Oregon lab, including increasing cleanroom lab space and innovation capabilities, accelerating development cycles, and the third-party assessment projections; and industry trends related to AI-driven demand. These statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause our actual results or outcomes, or the timing of our results or outcomes, to differ materially from those expressed or implied in this press release. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors include: our ability to successfully execute the planned expansion of our global lab network or the development of the new Oregon lab; our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of our investments in R&D infrastructure, including the new Oregon lab; the development timing and anticipated benefits of the new Oregon lab may differ from our expectations; business, economic, political and/or regulatory conditions in the consumer electronics industry, including wafer fabrication equipment spending, the semiconductor industry and the overall economy may deteriorate or change; the actions, performance, or investment levels of our customers and competitors may be inconsistent with our expectations; customer and product mix, including across market segments and geographical regions, may change; we may be unable to effectively manage and implement pricing actions, realize the value of our products and technology, successfully commercialize new products and technologies, or execute on perceived opportunities; we may be unable to achieve anticipated operational, manufacturing, supply chain, procurement, and scale efficiencies; customer technology transitions, capacity expansions, and fab construction projects may have different timing or be less successful than we expect; we may be unable to manage operating expenses effectively while continuing to invest in R&D, product innovation, customer support, and future growth opportunities; trade regulations, export controls, tariffs, trade disputes, and other geopolitical developments may inhibit our ability to sell our products; supply chain cost increases, tariffs, and other inflationary pressures have impacted and may continue to impact our profitability; supply chain disruptions or manufacturing capacity constraints may limit our ability to manufacture and sell our products; natural and human-caused disasters, disease outbreaks, war, terrorism, political or governmental unrest or instability, or other events beyond our control may impact our operations and revenue in affected areas; as well as the other risks and uncertainties that are described in the documents filed or furnished by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including specifically the Risk Factors described in our most recently filed periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and subsequent filings. You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this press release in the context of these risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof and are based on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions about future events. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update the information or statements made in this press release.

Teach For India Partners With Shikshagraha To Strengthen One Million Public Schools

* Teach For India brings 17 years of classroom leadership experience to Shikshagraha's People's Movement, building collective leadership from classrooms to communities.

Shikshagraha, the people-powered movement working to strengthen one million public schools across India, today announced Teach For India as its newest momentum partner. The partnership brings Teach For India's 17 years of experience developing teachers, young leaders and Alumni into a movement that has already mobilised more than 3.9 lakh leaders across 2.1 lakh public schools, triggering over 15.6 lakh micro-improvements — nearly 45,000 of them community-led.

The partnership brings together two complementary approaches: Teach For India's experience building individual leadership from the classroom outward, and Shikshagraha's network of more than 40 civil society organisations working across 16 states to drive collective action with government, communities and schools.

As Khushboo Awasthi, Chief Curator, Shikshagraha, puts it:

"Real change begins when someone decides to stop watching and start acting. For 17 years, Teach For India's Fellows and Alumni have made that choice — in classrooms, communities and far beyond them. Shikshagraha is built on the same belief: that transforming public education is not the work of a few organisations, but the work of millions of people choosing to act, learn and improve together. We are delighted to welcome Teach For India into the Shikshagraha network. Together, we hope to connect and amplify the agency of teachers, parents, young leaders, communities and institutions, so that every child can experience a school where they are seen, supported and given the opportunity to flourish & be future-ready."

Since 2009, Teach For India's Fellowship and Alumni network has built leaders inside classrooms and communities, with a tested model for tracking how one person's leadership grows — from a classroom, to a school, to a network, to an organisation. That gives Shikshagraha a working model for leadership pathways it can now offer its 3.9 lakh+ leaders.

For Shaheen Mistri, CEO, Teach For India, the decision to back Shikshagraha's goal came down to one thing:

"For 17 years, our Fellows and Alumni have shown us the power of the collective, and that the person in the room closest to a child's education is also the person most capable of transforming it. Shikshagraha's vision of a movement of a million schools, led not by any one organisation but by millions of people choosing to act, is exactly the kind of shared vision that will shift the needle in education. This collective values the depth it takes to nurture leadership, and the vast network it takes to connect that leadership to a national movement. Working together means Teach For

India Fellows and Alumni get a bigger canvas for the change they're already making, and every child gets more adults, in more places, working together to unleash their greatest potential."
What this partnership looks like in practice Over the coming year, this takes shape in three areas:

● Fellowship and leadership design — Shikshagraha's Fellowship and leadership programs will draw on Teach For India's experience in curriculum, coaching and assessment.

● Fellows and Alumni network — Teach For India's community of Fellows and Alumni joins the movement, with roles to lead and contribute across geographies.

● Shared narrative — Stories and proof points from Teach For India's classrooms feed into the movement's national narrative on leadership, student voice and agency —

alongside Shikshagraha's micro-improvement pilots and solutions repository.

The ambition: connect more people already working to improve public schools, give them stronger pathways to leadership, and help their collective action go further — towards a future where every child has the opportunity to learn well and flourish.

About Shikshagraha

Shikshagraha is a people's movement working to strengthen one million public schools across India, so every child can learn well and be ready for the future. Anchored by Mantra4Change and ShikshaLokam, and supported by the Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives. Visit shikshagraha.org for more details.

Culinary Traditions Of American Midwest and Northeast - The Great American Table Celebrated At New Delhi

On Monday, August 24, the India Office of Food Exports USA and JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity will unveil The Great American Table, a week-long celebration showcasing the distinctive flavours and culinary traditions of the American Midwest and Northeast, in the presence of senior officials from the U.S. Embassy.

“We are delighted to host this special celebration at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity. The Great American Table offers guests an opportunity to discover the diverse flavours of the American Midwest and Northeast while experiencing the quality and versatility of American ingredients,” said Sumit Saran, India Representative, Food Export USA.

The food promotion, which will also showcase a range of American ingredients, will be available for lunch and dinner at K3, the hotel's all-day restaurant, from Monday, August 24 to Sunday, August 30.

Guests can look forward to an indulgent spread featuring burgers, hot dogs, flatbreads, pies, soups and more, inspired by the hearty and robust flavours unique to the American Midwest and Northeast.

Welspun One’s WTC Thane Nears Completion, A Landmark Development In Thane With Over Rs 1,000+ Crore Investment

Welspun One, India’s leading real asset platform, is nearing completion of its World Trade Center (WTC) Thane development, with the overall investment in the project expected to exceed Rs 1,000 crore, including investments by tenants towards their respective spaces and fit outs. This will be a significant inflow of investment into the local economy creating a further positive impact in terms of trade and commerce activity and employment opportunities.

The development is expected to support around 5,000 employees across its tenant ecosystem and is currently 30% leased with an additional offer to lease for over 20% of the area. The operations expected to commence by the end of the year.

Located in Wagle Estate, WTC Thane is being developed as a first-of-its-kind integrated urban destination, bringing together Grade A offices, experience centres, F&B and Urban Distribution Centres (UDCs) within a single asset. The development is designed to accommodate large organizations office spaces and50+ brands across retail experience centres and F&B. As a licensee of the World Trade Centre brand, WTC Thane will also provide occupiers an access to WTC membership benefits including opportunities to network into the wider WTCA global business network, spanning more than 300 World Trade Centre properties across nearly 100 countries.

Designed by Architect Hafeez Contractor, the development features large-format spaces and infrastructure designed for efficient movement of people and goods, with a focus on automation and green building. A key differentiator of the development is its destination-themed retail concept, which will provide brands with large-format, compliant spaces to create experience centres.

Neeraj Balani, Chief Customer Officer, Welspun One, said, “WTC Thane is envisioned as a first-of-its-kind urban commercial destination in India, bringing together workplace, experience-led retail and urban logistics within a single integrated development. As we move towards completion, WTC Thane is set to establish a new benchmark for how commercial spaces can be designed to serve businesses, brands and consumers in a growing urban market like Thane.”

Aditya Birla Group has recently leased space at WTC Thane for its vault operations, while Welspun Group is also among the brands to have signed up for the development. Further occupier announcements are expected as leasing paperwork progresses.

About World Trade Center Thane by Welspun One

World Trade Center Thane by Welspun One is a future-ready Grade-A mixed-use business ecosystem designed to integrate urban distribution, commerce, retail, and workplace infrastructure under one address.

About Welspun One

Welspun One, India’s leading warehousing and industrial real estate platform focused on logistics and industrial real estate. Backed by the Welspun World group, the company is committed to developing high-quality, institutional-grade assets across key warehousing and industrial hubs. With a robust portfolio spanning major cities and marquee projects such as WTC Nhava Sheva (JNPA SEZ), a port-based logistics park and the World Trade Center, Thane, Welspun One continues to set new benchmarks in the Logistics and Industrial (L&I) sector. For further information visit www.welspunone.com  

Godrej Industries Group’s National Chemistry Day Summit Explores Resilience As A Defining Capability For Chemical Industry

* Third edition examines how businesses can build resilience through innovation, technology, talent and stronger partnerships ~

Godrej Industries Group (GIG) hosted the third edition of the National Chemistry Day Summit. Building on the success and momentum of the previous two editions, this joint initiative by GIG companies, Godrej Industries (Chemicals) and Astec LifeSciences, brought together leaders from across the chemical industry under the theme “Staying Resilient in a New Age World,” to examine how businesses can adapt, innovate and build for the future.

The Indian chemical industry finds itself in a period of major transformation, with changing market dynamics, evolving supply chains, technological disruptions and a shifting sustainability landscape reshaping the way businesses operate. Against this backdrop, the summit explored how organisations can move beyond responding to change to anticipating it, strengthening their capabilities and creating long term value.

Reflecting on the summit Vishal Sharma, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Godrej Industries (Chemicals) and Chairperson, Astec LifeSciences, said: "Resilience today is no longer just about managing disruption; it is about anticipating and being prepared for what comes next. As our industry navigates geopolitical uncertainty, evolving customer needs, and a rapidly changing environment, agility will define the winners. But no company can build that future alone. In the chemical industry, each of us is simultaneously a competitor, a supplier, and a customer. If we want to take this industry forward in the right direction for India, we must move beyond operating only as individual companies and work together as the Chemical industry. That is the spirit behind National Chemistry Day and our commitment to building it as a permanent platform for collaboration. Together, we can create an industry that is more innovative, more agile, more sustainable, and most importantly, future ready and resilient.”

The first panel, “Resilience Beyond the Enterprise: Building a Future-Ready Chemical Industry,” was moderated by Vishal Sharma, and brought together Murali Krishna Duvvuri, Senior Managing Director, Life Sciences, Asia and Region India, Croda; Alexander Gerding, Managing Director, BASF India; and Bankim Patra, Country Head (Lubes), Indian Oil Corporation Limited.

The discussion highlighted the need for a more integrated approach to strengthening India’s chemical ecosystem, with greater collaboration across the value chain, stronger technology and R&D partnerships, enabling infrastructure and policies, and faster project execution emerging as key priorities for future growth. These priorities underscore the importance of building a stronger ecosystem that can support investment, innovation and scale.

The second panel, “Resilience for the Enterprise: Driving Growth, Competitiveness, and Agility in a Changing Market,” was moderated by Sandeep Arora, Chief Commercial Officer, Godrej Industries (Chemicals) and brought together Raj Tiwari, CEO, SUPERFORM and Whole-time Director, UPL Limited; Ajith Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, Birla Opus; and Vimal Bhola, Co-founder and Chief R&D Scientist, Innovist, formerly Onesto Labs.

The conversation brought out the importance of building organisational strength through people, a strong product proposition, customer understanding and a culture that enables innovation, with the discussion highlighting talent development, long term business design, customer centricity, faster innovation and the balance between short term execution and long-term R&D as important considerations for businesses seeking to remain agile and responsive to change.

The summit also featured two focused sessions examining emerging priorities for the chemical industry. “Preparing for the Next Decade: AI in the Chemical Industry” featured a keynote by Sambit Patra, Senior Partner, Chemicals Practice, Bain & Company, while a fireside chat around “The Talent Imperative: Attracting, Developing, and Retaining Talent in a Rapidly Evolving Chemical Industry” featured Shefali Kohli, CHRO, Global Chemicals, Fashion Yarn and Insulators, Aditya Birla Group and Poonam Burman, Chief Human Resource Officer, Godrej Industries (Chemicals).

The event highlighted the industry's shift toward green chemistry, the transformative power of AI, and the urgent need to attract new talent to the sector.

About Godrej Industries Group

At the Godrej Industries Group, we serve over 1.4 billion people globally through a diverse portfolio of businesses, united by our purpose of Crafting tomorrow. With revenues of USD 7.2 billion in FY26 and a market capitalisation of USD 19 billion as of 31 March 2026, we operate across FMCG, real estate, financial services, agriculture and chemicals.

We are the leading player in India across several business categories, including residential real estate, animal feed, crude palm oil, oleochemicals, household insecticides, hair colour and air care.

We are committed to building a more sustainable future through our Good & Green programme, with ambitions of net-zero operations by 2035 and responsible supply chains by 2047. In 2025, Godrej Consumer Products and Godrej Properties were both ranked number one globally in their respective categories on the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Sustainability Indices.

For more information, please visit: www.godrejindustries.com  

Vedanta Commissions India's First Portable Rig For Gold & Critical Mineral Exploration

* Built for inaccessible and tough terrains, it is the first high-speed hydrostatic portable rig in India that can carry out high-speed drilling up to 1,000 metres

* Vedanta holds the largest number of critical mineral blocks; poised to back India's bid to cut import dependence as global demand is expected to triple by 2030

Vedanta Limited (NSE: VEDL; BSE: 500295), a leading global producer of metals, critical minerals and technology, that powers the industries of today and is incubating the industries of tomorrow, has reinforced its commitment to technology-led innovation by commissioning India's first-ever high-tech, high-speed hydrostatic portable rig equipped with advanced safety features. The rigs have been deployed at two of Vedanta's flagship exploration projects in Chhattisgarh dedicated to gold and exploration of critical minerals such as nickel, chromium and platinum group elements.

Critical mineral exploration demands exceptional technical expertise and deep-shaft mining capabilities, a high-barrier domain where Vedanta stands out among a select few national and global players. As the energy transition accelerates, Vedanta is uniquely positioned to bridge the critical mineral deficit by leveraging its integrated smelting infrastructure and advanced geological tech to unlock complex blocks.

Purpose-built for inaccessible and tough terrains, this rig can carry out high-speed drilling up to 1,000 metres compared to the typical 300–400 metre range, without losing precious time in inter-location movement — a first for exploration capability in the country. The deployment marks a significant leap in Vedanta's exploration infrastructure, enabling faster, safer, minimally intrusive and more efficient access to India's largely untapped mineral reserves.

Vedanta has placed itself at the forefront of India's critical minerals push, being the only company to have secured 10 critical mineral blocks across gold, manganese, copper, nickel-chromium-PGE (Platinum Group of Elements) tungsten, graphite, vanadium, rare earth elements and potash, with exploration already underway across five blocks. Recently, Vedanta has also been declared the Successful Bidder for the Punnam Manganese Block in Andhra Pradesh.

India's Untapped Mineral Potential

The government estimates suggest close to 80% of India's mineral resources remain unexplored. Gold is vital for medical applications, high-reliability electronics and other strategic industries, while critical minerals such as copper and nickel underpin AI infrastructure and data centres, renewable energy, electric mobility, defence, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. India's task is to move beyond extraction alone and build capability across exploration, mining, processing, refining, recycling and manufacturing.

The opportunity is simple: India's resource advantage will be won not by what lies beneath the ground, but by how much value it builds above it.

According to the International Energy Agency, global critical mineral demand for clean energy technologies is projected to nearly triple by 2030 under its Net Zero Emissions Scenario, and quadruple by 2040, reaching close to 40 million tonnes annually. This has accelerated efforts by countries to diversify critical mineral supply chains away from dependence on any single country or source, positioning India as a natural partner in the shift. India holds substantial reserves of rare earth elements and critical minerals, giving it strong potential to become a key player in global supply chains though the country remains largely import-dependent despite this geological potential.

Vedanta 2.0 – Transformation through Technology

Vedanta 2.0 represents the group's vision to build a technology-driven, future-facing conglomerate centred on sustainable growth. While strengthening its core businesses, the group is simultaneously expanding into critical minerals as part of the clean-energy value chain, having secured several new mineral blocks and stepped-up exploration activity.

Vedanta Group holds a differentiated position as one of the few Indian companies with mineral assets spread across India, South Africa, Namibia, Liberia and Zambia, giving it access to diverse, high-potential reserves. The company plans to expand into new geographies with stable regulatory environments, deepen value-added processing within India, and build mining partnerships aligned with global environmental, social and governance standards.  

Audi Bengaluru Central Unveils A Transformed Luxury Experience Centre On Lavelle Road, Bengaluru

* State-of-the-art Audi Experience Centre inaugurated with the first preview of the All-New Audi Q3 in India

Audi Bengaluru Central, the flagship Audi dealership on Lavelle Road, Bengaluru, today unveiled its transformed and upgraded experience centre, marking a significant milestone in Audi’s retail presence in Karnataka. The new facility brings together contemporary design, state-of-the-art infrastructure and a premium customer experience, reflecting the progressive spirit of the Audi brand.

The inauguration was further elevated with the exclusive preview of the All-New Audi Q3, the latest generation of Audi’s popular luxury SUV, which has recently been launched in India. Audi Bengaluru Central is the first showroom in India to preview the All-New Audi Q3, offering customers and automotive enthusiasts an early opportunity to experience Audi’s latest generation SUV.

The transformed Audi Bengaluru Central on Lavelle Road has been designed to offer customers a more immersive and sophisticated Audi experience. The state-of-the-art facility combines Audi’s progressive retail philosophy with modern customer engagement spaces, a premium vehicle display environment and an enhanced overall experience for luxury automobile enthusiasts.

Audi Bengaluru Central is the only Audi showroom in Karnataka operated by Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd., under the leadership of Mr. Sunil Pai, CEO, Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd. The dealership continues to strengthen Audi’s presence in Bengaluru by bringing together premium automotive retail, customer experience and product innovation under one roof.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Sunil Pai, CEO, Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd., said:

“The unveiling of the transformed Audi Bengaluru Central marks an exciting new chapter for us. Bengaluru is a city that appreciates progressive design, technology and innovation, and our new experience centre has been created to reflect exactly that. We are particularly delighted to be the first showroom in India to preview the All-New Audi Q3. This is a testament to our commitment to offering our customers an exceptional Audi experience and bringing the latest products and innovations closer to them.”

The All-New Audi Q3 represents the next generation of Audi’s premium compact SUV and brings together a fresh design language, advanced technology, premium interiors and the unmistakable Audi character. Its arrival at Audi Bengaluru Central adds further significance to the inauguration, providing customers with an opportunity to experience the new model at the newly transformed facility.

The inauguration of Audi Bengaluru Central marks the beginning of a new chapter for the dealership, with a continued focus on delivering a seamless, personalised and technology-led luxury experience to Audi customers across Bengaluru and Karnataka.
About Audi Bengaluru Central

Audi Bengaluru Central, located on Lavelle Road, Bengaluru, is operated by Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd. and represents Audi’s commitment to delivering a premium and progressive customer experience in Karnataka. The transformed facility brings together Audi’s latest retail standards, premium customer engagement and an extensive display of Audi vehicles.

About Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd.

Jubilant MotorWorks Pvt. Ltd. (JMPL) is an automotive retail company with a presence in the premium and luxury automobile segment. Under the leadership of Mr. Sunil Pai, CEO, JMPL is focused on delivering world-class automotive experiences through its dealerships and customer-centric approach.