India’s Trauma Care Push Gets A Boost As HOSMAT Launches Golden Hour Network At First-Of-Its-Kind Trauma Conclave

In a significant step towards strengthening trauma care systems in India, HOSMAT Hospitals, a leader in orthopaedics and trauma care, in collaboration with the Bangalore Orthopaedic Society, successfully hosted HOSMAT Traumacon 2026, a first-of-its-kind, practice-driven trauma conference, marked by the formal launch of the HOSMAT Alumni Association, and Golden Hour Network (GHN).

Positioned as a pioneering initiative, the Golden Hour Network is a structured, professional trauma care community that brings together surgeons trained within the HOSMAT ecosystem under a shared commitment to rapid, precise, and outcome-driven trauma care.

More than an alumni collective, GHN is designed as a co-governed clinical and academic network, with a defined programme of monthly clinical rounds, quarterly specialty-focused discussions, and an annual TraumaCon gathering as its apex platform.

Named after the critical “golden hour”, the first hour following injury where timely intervention determines survival, the network reflects a deeper philosophy: that trauma care is not defined by institutions, but by the urgency, precision, and shared responsibility of the clinicians delivering it. Over the next six months, the network will establish its governance structure, onboard senior alumni, and initiate its first clinical engagements.

The launch of GHN underscores HOSMAT’s evolution beyond a high-volume clinical institution into a research-led and academically driven centre of excellence in orthopaedics and trauma care.

Over the past 33+ years, HOSMAT has built one of the country’s most significant trauma ecosystems, performing 25 to 30 trauma surgeries daily, placing it among India’s highest-volume trauma centres. The institution has also contributed extensively to academic medicine, leading over 300 research initiatives, with more than 80 publications in internationally indexed journals, and playing a key role in shaping clinical practice in orthopaedics and trauma.

Its impact on medical education is equally significant. According to Orthopaedic Society of India estimates, nearly 10% of Bengaluru’s orthopaedic surgeons have trained at HOSMAT, reinforcing its role as a major training hub for the next generation of specialists. Over the decades, HOSMAT has also touched nearly one-third of Bengaluru’s population through trauma care, reflecting both its scale and community trust.

Held at the ITC Welcome Hotel, Richmond Road, Traumacon 2026 brought together 150+ leading orthopaedic surgeons, trauma specialists, and clinicians from across India, creating a platform for real-world learning, surgical innovation, and collaborative problem-solving. The event was held in memory of Late Dr Thomas Chandy, a globally respected orthopaedic surgeon and pioneer in trauma care, whose legacy continues to guide the institution’s clinical and academic philosophy.

India continues to face one of the highest trauma burdens globally, with over 4.8 lakh road accidents annually and nearly 1.7–1.8 lakh deaths each year, making trauma one of the leading causes of mortality among young adults. Against this backdrop, Traumacon 2026 was conceptualised to address a critical gap - the need for practice-led, experience-driven learning platforms that directly impact patient outcomes.

The conference featured a comprehensive, full-day scientific agenda with over 25+ expert-led sessions, covering upper limb trauma, complex lower limb injuries, paediatric trauma, non-union surgeries, complication management, medico-legal aspects, and orthopaedic practice efficiency. A defining feature of the conference was its case-based and discussion-led format, enabling clinicians to engage with real-world scenarios and refine decision-making in high-pressure environments.

Reflecting on the significance of the conference and the launch of GHN, Anisha Chandy Eckardt, Managing Director, HOSMAT Hospitals, said: “Trauma care in India does not suffer from a lack of clinical expertise - it suffers from gaps in time, training, and integration. At HOSMAT, this is a reality we have long recognised, guided by the enduring belief of Dr Thomas Chandy that every patient deserves timely, precise, and compassionate care without compromise. Through Traumacon 2026, we are bringing together some of the finest minds in the field to address these critical gaps - not just through discussion, but through driving real, practice-led change that can improve outcomes where it matters most, in the golden hour of care.

At the same time, we are very consciously investing in transforming HOSMAT into a high-end orthopaedic and trauma research institute. That is the direction we see for ourselves in the years to come - where clinical excellence is deeply integrated with academic leadership, research, and innovation.”

Dr Ravishankar M R, Head of Orthopaedic Trauma, HOSMAT Hospitals and Chairman of Traumacon 2026, added: “At HOSMAT, trauma care is built on a strong foundation of clinical volume, academic rigour, and continuous research. Managing 25 to 30 trauma surgeries every day gives us a unique depth of real-world experience, while our academic and training programmes ensure that this experience is translated into knowledge. Traumacon reflects this balance - where clinical practice, research, and collaboration come together to create more consistent, evidence-based trauma care systems.”

Adding perspective on the legacy behind the institution, Dr Subodh M Shetty, President, Orthopaedic Society of India, said: “Dr Thomas Chandy was not just a surgeon - he was a mentor who shaped generations of orthopaedic and trauma specialists in this country. Many of today’s leading surgeons carry forward his approach to precision, discipline, and patient-first care. What we see today in Traumacon is a reflection of that legacy - a commitment to learning, sharing, and continuously improving. The Golden Hour Network, in that sense, is a powerful extension of his vision. It has the potential to bring together expertise across the country and significantly strengthen trauma response systems where it matters most.”

With strong participation, high engagement, and a uniquely practical approach, HOSMAT Traumacon 2026, along with the launch of the Golden Hour Network, marks a significant step towards building a more integrated, collaborative, and research-driven trauma care ecosystem in India.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, Traumacon is expected to evolve into a national platform for trauma education, research, and clinical collaboration, bringing together clinicians, institutions, and innovators to shape the future of orthopaedic and trauma care in India.

Haworth India Hosted ‘Give To Gain’ Women’s Leadership Roundtable In Bengaluru

Haworth India hosted a leadership roundtable in Bengaluru, under the theme ‘Give to Gain’ to celebrate women who shape tomorrow. The curated session brought together senior women leaders from architecture and design (A&D) firms, corporates and project management consultancies (PMCs). The session was structured as a moderated panel discussion featuring senior architects, design leaders, and project stakeholders. It was followed by an audience interaction segment, with a focus on the business impact of women’s leadership. The discussion explored how thoughtfully designed workplaces, mentorship, collaboration and support enable women to thrive, while positioning inclusion as a key driver of organisational performance rather than a social initiative.

Commenting on the initiative, Manish Khandelwal, Managing Director, Haworth India, said, “When women lead with intention, progress accelerates. Through ‘Give to Gain’, Haworth brought together diverse industry perspectives to examine how inclusive leadership and workplace design can move beyond social intent to become performance drivers for organisations. Conversations around mentorship, collaboration and return-to-work pathways are critical to building workplaces where women can contribute meaningfully across different stages of their professional journeys.”

The Bengaluru panel, hosted at Haworth India’s Indiranagar experiential centre, featured Varsha Kempaiah, Director, Spacelab at RC Architecture; Devanshi Patel, Corporate Real Estate Leader; Reema Bhandari, Director at M Moser and Aruna R, Director at Space Matrix. Opening with reflections on Personal Journeys and Turning Points, speakers discussed early influences, defining breakthrough moments and professional challenges that shaped their leadership approach.

The discussion then progressed to Winning in the Workplace, focusing on how mentorship, collaboration, professional networks and structured support systems such as return-to-work programmes and knowledge sharing strengthen leadership capability and business performance. In the third arc, Workplaces That Help Women Thrive, the panel explored how inclusive policies, leadership culture and supportive workplace solutions enable creativity, trust, innovation and sustained participation.

The final segment, How Workplaces Can Actively Support Women, highlighted practical steps such as fostering inclusive decision-making, implementing balanced policy frameworks, and encouraging leadership behaviours that create measurable impact. The session concluded with Nuthan Prabhu, Associate at M Moser, sharing perspectives on resilience.

Commenting during the discussion, Reema Bhandari, Director, M Moser, said, The workplace today is far more than a physical setting, it is a strategic enabler of culture, performance, and growth. The real opportunity is to create environments that are human-centric, adaptable, and aligned with the changing needs of both people and business.

As part of a larger initiative, the ‘Give to Gain’ leadership roundtable series was hosted across five major cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai engaging a diverse cross-section of industry leaders and fostering meaningful dialogue around inclusive leadership and workplace transformation.

The ‘Give to Gain’ theme positioned inclusive workplace design as a strategic driver of productivity and innovation, while reinforcing Haworth India’s role in advancing cross-sector leadership dialogue across the architecture and corporate real estate ecosystem.

Visit: http://haworth.com/

Group Photo: Aruna R, Director at Space Matrix; Reema Bhandari, Director at M Moser; Varsha Kempaiah, Director, Spacelab at RC Architecture.

Phoenix Mall Of Asia, Bengaluru, Presents Tarun Tahiliani’s Collection ‘AIRLOOM’ In An Exclusive Showcase

* A curated evening of fashion, craft, and contemporary design at the city’s luxury retail destination

Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru’s leading destination for luxury retail and experiences, hosted an exclusive showcase of OTT’s SS26 collection by ace designer Tarun Tahiliani at its FAN Park. The presentation by Tarun Tahiliani, one of India’s most influential couturiers with a signature blend of Indian craftsmanship and tailored form, brought together fashion and contemporary design through a refined, fluid, and distinctly modern approach to Indian occasion wear.

Conceived as a study in movement, texture, and assured ease, the new collection reflects Tarun Tahiliani’s evolving expression of luxury prêt for the contemporary woman. Rooted in a nuanced palette of black, ivory, blush, sage, mocha, berry, coral, taupe, and gunmetal, the collection explores the interplay of softness and structure, where fluid silhouettes are grounded in precision and detail.

The collection moves across distinct expressions, from the after-dark fluidity of Cocktail to the organic lightness of Jardin, alongside Rabari’s tactile interpretations of craft and Interlace’s focus on layered lines and precise construction. Materiality remains central, with crinkled silks, foil jerseys, organzas, knits, and structured fabrics designed to drape, fold, and move with ease. Florals appear as subtle impressions, while asymmetric balances and restrained embellishments lend the collection its distinctive character.

Speaking on the collection, designer Tarun Tahiliani said, “OTT is created for a woman’s everyday-to-dinner wardrobe. The idea is for these pieces to mix and match seamlessly with what she already owns and with our collections designed season after season, eventually defining a distinctly modern, India-inspired way of dressing.”

As the evening unfolded and each look came into view, silhouettes moved with fluid ease, the fall of fabric catching and releasing light across textured surfaces. Layers settled into place, lines held their form, and each look found its rhythm through movement and material. The drape, finish, and construction revealed themselves gradually, drawing the eye through precision and detail.

Speaking on the showcase, Ritu Mehta, Centre Director – Phoenix Mall of Asia and Director of Marketing – South, said, “At Phoenix Mall of Asia, the focus is on bringing together fashion, design, and retail with a more considered expression of luxury, where each element is defined by its quality, relevance, and design integrity. AIRLOOM introduces a collection defined by movement, material, and silhouette, where craft and contemporary expression come through with clarity and precision, aligning with the level of fashion and detail we continue to bring into the space.”

With this showcase, Phoenix Mall of Asia continues to bring landmark fashion moments into focus, where design, craft, and contemporary style come together with clarity and intent.

About Phoenix Mall of Asia

Phoenix Mall of Asia, located in North Bengaluru, is the epitome of luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. Renowned as India’s premier ultra-luxury retail destination, the mall offers an unparalleled experience in the city’s heart. It sets new standards in design and amenities, creating a sophisticated and immersive environment for visitors. The mall's grand entrance welcomes guests into a world of elegance and style, with popular zones like Luxe Atria and Eden, which are prime photo spots due to their stunning aesthetics. The Fanpark area is the hub of activities and events, enhancing the overall experience. Phoenix Mall of Asia boasts over 440 brands, including 150+ international luxury labels and 50+ debut brands like Golden Goose, Rolex, IWC, ZARA, YSL cosmetics, D&G cosmetics and many more making it a haven for discerning shoppers. The mall also features exceptional dining destinations with renowned chefs and diverse culinary offerings. Restaurants such as Ishaara, Dobaraa, EIGHT, Andreas, and Kylin Experience cater to every palate, while the nature-themed central atrium, Oasis, is surrounded by international cafes like Starbucks, Tim Hortons, Perch, Andreas Brasserie, and Magnolia Bakery. Foodthopia, a 38,000 sq. ft area dedicated to dining, offers a cosmopolitan experience with a variety of eateries, including game day restaurants, cafes, and fine dining options. Beyond shopping and dining, the mall provides a wide range of sports, entertainment, and leisure activities for all ages. The introduction of Bengaluru’s largest cinema, the PVR INOX 14-screen multiplex, adds a unique touch to the entertainment lineup. With a state-of-the-art infrastructure spanning over 13 acres and 1.25 million square feet of retail space, Phoenix Mall of Asia seamlessly blends luxury and leisure, ensuring every visit is a memorable experience.

As Cheaper Semaglutide Expands Access, Expert Urges Doctors To Put Nutrition First In Obesity Care

Popular weight loss drug, semaglutide, is now available at a third of the cost following launch of generic versions made by Indian manufacturers. But while the lower price may draw more people toward the drug, physicians specialising in weight management and lifestyle medicine say it should not distract healthcare professionals from the bigger question of what these medications actually change in long-term obesity care.

For Karnataka, the development is especially relevant. With nearly one in four adults estimated to be living with overweight or obesity, demand for medical weight-loss solutions is expected to rise, particularly in urban areas where high stress, irregular meals, and increasing dependence on ultra-processed foods have created a fertile environment for metabolic disease. Experts caution, however, that while a lower price may bring semaglutide within budget for more people, it does not change the drug’s limitations.

Dr. Vanita Rahman, a US-based internal medicine physician, certified nutritionist and medical educator with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, said the weight loss seen with GLP-1 drugs is largely driven by reduced food intake rather than a correction of the underlying drivers of obesity. “GLP-1 drugs, like semaglutide, help some people lose weight because they suppress appetite and slow the rate at which the food leaves the stomach. As a result, people eat less and therefore they lose weight. However, the medications are only effective for a small number of individuals. Research from the SELECT study shows that only 12% of semaglutide users reached a normal body weight while 31% and 43% continued to experience overweight and obesity, respectively, after 4 years of use.”

Physicians also note that the medicines do not address the underlying causes of weight gain, such as low fibre intake, emotional eating, consumption of larger portion sizes, and high-caloric foods. This is why weight regain occurs when the medication is stopped.

“There is excitement around starting GLP-1 drugs, but far less attention is paid to what happens when people stop taking them. Research shows that 50% of GLP-1 users discontinue the medications within 12 months due to side effects, lack of efficacy, or cost issues. Studies also show that people regain the lost weight within 18 months of stopping the drugs. Research has also found that any cardiovascular benefits seen during GLP-1 use are also quickly lost when a person stops taking the medication,” says Dr. Rahman.

She emphasised the urgent need to refocus on nutrition-led approaches that address the root causes of obesity. “Multiple research studies have shown that consuming a whole-food plant-based diet can lead to weight loss similar to that seen with semaglutide and improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support gut health without the side effects associated with long-term drug use. Educating people about the role of nourishing foods and healthy eating habits in weight management addresses the underlying factors that are causing weight gain and leads to sustainable weight loss without lifelong dependence on medications for appetite suppression.”

Dr. Rahman conducted a series of sessions on GLP-1s and weight management across leading medical institutions, including Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical College, Ramaiah Medical College, and Bangalore Medical College, engaging over 300 healthcare providers. The sessions focused on equipping clinicians with practical, evidence- and nutrition-based approaches to sustainable weight management.  

Healthcare In India Must Move Beyond Curative Treatments To Include Preventive And Holistic Health: Experts

* Public Health Experts call for integrating technology, tradition and lifestyle interventions to build a healthier, more resilient population

“Healthcare is not limited to curative treatments. It includes preventive, promotive, palliative and rehabilitative care, much of which happens within the community,” said Mr. Rajesh Bhushan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India and Chairperson, Governing Council, Illness to Wellness Foundation, delivering the keynote address at the 4th Annual Summit on “Advancing Holistic Health through Innovation, Technology, and Tradition” in New Delhi.

India today stands at a critical juncture in its healthcare journey. Rapid urbanisation, changing lifestyles, rising stress levels, and increasing screen time are contributing to a growing burden of chronic conditions. Against this backdrop, the summit brought together policymakers, clinicians, public health experts, and industry leaders to examine how healthcare systems must evolve from reactive models of care to more proactive, preventive, and personalised approaches. Leaning on traditional Indian wisdom and practices, the discussions highlighted the need to embed health across daily routines, workplaces, and communities.

“Our population of over 1.4 billion, with diverse health needs and access challenges, can benefit significantly from building a culture of health-seeking behaviour through community-focused programmes and organisations such as the Illness to Wellness Foundation. This is critical to ensuring that people are able to fully benefit from India’s healthcare ecosystem, which includes a mix of public and private modern healthcare providers as well as diverse traditional systems under AYUSH,” Mr. Bhushan said, noting the unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery in India.

“Technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning can improve the efficiency and quality of healthcare delivery, when combined with systems of digital public health infrastructure, including the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA), which enable interoperability, longitudinal health records, and a more integrated healthcare ecosystem,” Mr. Bhushan said, concluding his remarks.

Welcoming the gathering, Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, Advisory Council, Illness to Wellness Foundation, said, “The theme of this year’s summit, ‘Advancing Holistic Health through Innovation, Technology, and Tradition,’ reflects a shift in how we think about healthcare. For decades, systems have focused on treating illness. The real challenge before us is how to prevent disease and enable people to live healthier, longer and more balanced lives.”

“The future of healthcare must be built in our homes, our kitchens, our schools, our workplaces and our daily routines. We must move from a system that reacts to illness towards a society that actively works towards wellness, beyond treating symptoms to recognising differences in lifestyle, environment, and personal health profiles. A more personalised and holistic understanding of health is essential to building effective preventive systems. This aligns with India’s traditional knowledge systems, which have long emphasised balance, lifestyle, and individual constitution as central to well-being,” Mr. Rajput further added.

Speaking on holistic well-being, Dr. Manoj Nesari, Senior Chief Medical Officer (SAG), CGHS, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India and Former Advisor, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, highlighted two key concepts in traditional vedic systems i.e. aarogya, a comprehensive term encompassing the elements that constitute complete health, as well as the term swasth (swa, meaning self, and stha, meaning state of being. He emphasised that health must be understood as a holistic concept of being disease free, well-nourished, physically and mentally fit and in a state of alignment with one’s natural self.

“A truly healthy individual is one who is able to contribute meaningfully to and benefit from the social and the natural world around them. Health, therefore, is not just an individual outcome, but a shared responsibility across the individual, the community and the environment. We have forgotten the importance that traditional Indian food systems placed on dietary diversity and seasonal diets as well as on environmental balance to sustain long-term health outcomes for both individuals and communities.” Dr. Nesari added.

(Padma Bhushan) Dr. T S Kler, Member, Advisory Council, Illness to Wellness Foundation and Chairman & HOD – BLK-Max Heart & Vascular Institute and Chairman Pan Max – Electrophysiology, also spoke about the importance of leveraging public healthcare systems not only for treatment, but also for building awareness around health and prevention.

“Health must remain our foremost priority—far above all else. Today, a significant proportion of premature deaths are linked to lifestyle risks and environmental factors. We must move towards an integrated, holistic model that combines allopathy with traditional systems of medicine, ensuring a more balanced and patient-centric approach. Equally important is the need to create greater awareness through continuous dialogue and education, as a lot can be achieved with the resources we already have,” Dr. Kler said

Concluding the inaugural session, Dr. Ravi Gaur, Co-Chair, FICCI Digital Health Task Force & Healthcare Awards and Founder – DRG Path Lab, thanked the speakers for their insights and reiterated the importance of continued conversations on integrating innovation, traditional knowledge and preventive approaches in healthcare.

Dr. Gaur said, “The real shift we need is from managing disease to building a culture of health ownership. As stakeholders across sectors, our role is not just to develop systems, but to create awareness and belief that preventive and person-centric healthcare is achievable. We look forward to building on these discussions in the sessions ahead.”

The summit features a series of thematic discussions examining multiple dimensions of holistic health and well-being. These include conversations around mental health as a critical component of productivity and daily life, with a focus on managing stress, addressing burnout, supporting students, and fostering more open and supportive environments across workplaces and educational institutions.

Discussions also explore the growing role of digital health in enabling preventive care and improving access, including the use of digital health infrastructure, telemedicine platforms, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and data-driven systems to support early detection and more efficient healthcare delivery.

In addition, the summit also highlights the importance of integrating traditional practices such as yoga, meditation, nutrition, and Ayurveda into modern healthcare approaches, reinforcing the value of combining lifestyle interventions with clinical care to support overall well-being.

The programme also included a special session and an award ceremony recognising contributions to advancing the wellness ecosystem. 

India’s Coal Backbone Holds Firm Amid Global Gas Disruptions

India’s energy ecosystem is witnessing early signs of stress amid ongoing geopolitical disruptions in West Asia, even as the government maintains that the country remains well-prepared to manage the situation. The ongoing conflict in the region has significantly impacted global supply chains, particularly energy flows through critical routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, which carries a large share of India’s crude oil, gas, and fertiliser imports. Addressing the Parliament Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi described the situation as “concerning” and acknowledged its adverse impact on the global economy and daily life, while assuring that India is taking proactive steps to safeguard energy security.

Industrial clusters across India are already experiencing localized stress, with shortages and disruptions in CNG and LPG supply pushing businesses to explore alternative fuels, including coal. India imports nearly 45–50% of its natural gas requirement as LNG, making industrial gas consumers highly sensitive to global supply disruptions and shipping route uncertainties. This shift is further reinforced by constrained LNG supplies and rising global uncertainties. At the same time, the government has highlighted that India has significantly strengthened its energy resilience over the past decade through diversification of import sources, expansion of strategic reserves, and improved supply chain preparedness.

Gas-based power capacity in India remains underutilised at below 25% PLF, as coal and renewables continue to dominate the generation mix. While the power sector remains relatively insulated, owing to its strong reliance on coal and renewables, the industrial sector continues to feel the pressure of gas shortages. In this context, coal has emerged as a critical fallback option, reinforcing its role as the backbone of India’s energy security.

India’s overall coal demand has been rising steadily, with annual consumption crossing 1.25 billion tonnes, driven primarily by the power sector, cement, sponge iron, and captive industrial users. Early signals from coal markets indicate tightening demand–supply dynamics. Coal India’s e-auction premiums have risen to around 35% over notified prices in February 2026, reflecting increased urgency among buyers to secure supply. This marks a shift from softer demand trends earlier in the fiscal year. The demand uptick is being driven by multiple factors, including substitution from gas amid LNG disruptions, seasonal ramp-up in power demand, and reduced imports leading to greater reliance on domestic coal. However, coal’s substitution potential remains largely limited to the power sector in the short-to-medium term. Structural and technological constraints continue to restrict its widespread adoption in industrial applications such as fertilisers and chemicals.

Commenting on the evolving scenario, Mr. Vinaya Varma, MD & CEO, mjunction services limited stated, “What we are witnessing is an early but clear behavioural shift in fuel consumption patterns. As LNG availability tightens and CNG/LPG supplies face disruption in several industrial clusters, buyers are increasingly turning to coal to secure operational continuity. The rise in e-auction premiums and improved offtake reflects this urgency. Coal will continue to play a critical role in ensuring India’s energy security, especially in times of global uncertainty. While we are witnessing localized tightening in demand and firming of prices, the overall market remains balanced due to strong domestic availability and adequate stock levels.”

Importantly, the situation remains measured rather than overheated. Only about 47% of auction volumes have been sold so far this year, and current premiums remain below historical peaks, indicating controlled but firming demand. Current coal stock levels at power plants remain comfortable at 18–20 days of consumption, preventing panic buying despite tightening spot demand signals in auction markets. Overall, while India is not facing an immediate energy crisis, evolving global disruptions are beginning to test the system.

TCS And Board For IT Education Standards (BITES) Open Registrations For TCS TechBytes, The Annual IT Quiz For Engineering Students

* Conducted by Tata Consultancy Services in collaboration with BITES, the IT Quiz in its 17th edition will test students’ knowledge in emerging technologies

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, and the Board for IT Education Standards (BITES)—an autonomous body promoted by Government of Karnataka, have opened registrations to the 17th edition of TCS TechBytes—the Engineering IT Quiz. This quiz is open to engineering students (BE/BTech) of all streams and semesters across Karnataka.

TCS TechBytes challenges and encourages students to expand their knowledge of technology trends and their diverse applications across industries. The objective is to build awareness of emerging technological domains, thereby enabling students to compete effectively in today’s fast‑paced, technology‑intensive industry. Each institution can send 10 teams (2 students per team) to participate in the regional finals of the quiz. No participation fee is charged. Entries must be sent by the respective institutions on or before April 13, 2026, to manager@bites.org.in

Regional rounds of the quiz will be conducted across six locations— Kalaburagi (April 15), Hubballi (April 17), Mangaluru (April 22), Mysuru (April 24) Tumakuru (May 2) and Bengaluru (May 5). The finals will be held in Bengaluru on May 5, 2026. Winners and runners-up of each regional round will receive gift vouchers worth Rs 12,000 and Rs 10,000 respectively, as well as the opportunity to compete at the State Finals to be held in Bengaluru. The finale prize for the winners and runners-up includes an educational scholarship worth Rs 85,000 and Rs 50,000 respectively, among other prizes.

The quiz will focus on the application of technology across various sectors and aspects such as the technology environment, business, people, new trends, and industry legends. It will also cover emerging areas including artificial intelligence, digital technologies, cloud computing, automation, cybersecurity, biometrics, mobility, robotics, telecommunications, social media, big data, notable personalities (international and national), software products, the history of IT, and domains where technology has made a significant impact, such as education, entertainment, literature, multimedia, music, film, the internet, banking, advertising, sports, gaming, social networking, and mobile technology.

For more information visit www.bites.org.in.

1,000 Transcranial Doppler Procedures Strengthen Stroke Diagnosis At Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road

· This non-invasive neurovascular test strengthens acute stroke diagnosis and monitoring

· Also supports rare disease detection and organ donation pathways

Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, a leading multi speciality hospital in the region, announced the completion of 1,000 Transcranial Doppler (TCD) procedures, marking a significant milestone in strengthening real-time stroke diagnosis and neurocritical care monitoring. The achievement highlights the hospital’s growing role in using advanced, non-invasive neurovascular technologies to enable faster treatment decisions for patients with complex brain and stroke-related conditions.

Dr. Vijay Sharma, Senior Consultant, Division of Neurology, National University Hospital, Singapore, joined virtually during the event and spoke about the evolving role of TCD in neurocritical care and its relevance in improving outcomes in time-sensitive neurological conditions.

Over the course of these 1,000 procedures, TCD has supported routine and advanced stroke evaluation at the hospital, including monitoring over 350 patients with acute stroke. The technology enabled rapid identification of intracranial arterial stenosis, occlusions and flow asymmetries, helping clinicians make time-sensitive treatment decisions and guide secondary stroke prevention. It also helped identify collateral circulation in Moyamoya disease and supported dynamic diagnosis of vascular conditions such as subclavian steal phenomenon

Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Dr (Prof) Suryanarayana Sharma P M, Consultant Neurologist at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta said “TCD is often described as the neurologist’s stethoscope to the brain because it allows us to assess cerebral blood flow dynamically at the bedside. Unlike conventional imaging, it provides real-time insights into how blood is actually flowing through the brain’s arteries, which can be crucial in stroke evaluation and neurocritical care monitoring. Reaching the milestone of 1,000 procedures reflects how this technology has become an essential part of our comprehensive stroke care and helps us make faster and more informed treatment decisions for patients.”

Dr. Suryanarayana Sharma has also contributed to advancing the use of TCD in stroke prevention in India, having conducted and published the first pilot project focused on tribal children with sickle cell disease. The initiative has since been expanded across multiple states with the support of government agencies and several NGOs. He further noted that vasomotor reactivity assessment is emerging as an important area of interest in stroke prevention, particularly among individuals with established vascular risk factors.

Dr. Gurucharan Adoor, Consultant Neurologist at Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta, added “Beyond stroke diagnosis, TCD has proven valuable across several complex neurological conditions. It has helped us monitor intracranial vasospasm in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and tubercular meningitis. It has also helped us detect conditions that may be missed on conventional tests. Using bubble TCD, we identified 32 patients with patent foramen ovale, several previously missed on echocardiography.”

In addition to diagnostic applications, TCD supported 30 brain death evaluations, where characteristic patterns of cerebral circulatory arrest provided confirmatory evidence in time-sensitive clinical situations. As a repeatable bedside modality, it helped support ethical clinical decision-making and facilitated organ donation pathways.

Looking ahead, the hospital plans to integrate Transcranial Doppler into dedicated Stroke Prevention Clinics to strengthen early detection and secondary prevention strategies. Routine use of TCD for embolic signal monitoring, cerebral flow pattern analysis and post-intervention follow-up is expected to enable more personalised stroke risk assessment and optimisation of medical therapy.

RMZ Foundation To Host Opening Night Of Bengaluru Art Weekend On 28th March At RMZ Ecoworld In Bellandur

* Bringing Together Artists, Patrons, And Contemporary Practice

Bengaluru Art Weekend — a 9-day city-wide celebration of art, culture, and creative dialogue — announces its partnership with RMZ Foundation for the opening night of this year's edition. On Saturday, 28 March, RMZ Ecoworld in Bellandur will open its doors to an evening of conversation, encounter, and exchange centred on where contemporary Indian art stands today.

Presented by Svasa Life and Usual Suspects, BAW 2026 and its opening night reflect the Foundation's enduring commitment to placing art at the centre of the spaces where people work, gather, and connect.

The collaboration brings together two platforms united by a conviction that art belongs beyond the gallery — in workspaces, public squares, and everyday life. RMZ Foundation shares Bengaluru Art Weekend's longstanding commitment to independent artists and to audiences who are curious, engaged, and eager for cultural dialogue: that art, made open and woven into public life, has the power to enrich the city and shape a more inclusive future.

At the heart of the evening is a commitment to placing emerging voices — practitioners redefining what Indian artistic practice looks and feels like — in direct conversation with collectors, cultural practitioners, and audiences who may be encountering their work for the first time.

The evening will unfold across three distinct moments, each designed to draw audiences deeper into the work and the discourse surrounding it. It will begin with an intimate, guided walkthrough of RMZ Foundation’s art collection at Ecoworld 30, led by the curatorial team. Conceived as a slow, conversational journey, the walkthrough invites guests to engage directly with the materials, processes, and ideas shaping each artist’s practice, creating space for reflection and exchange.

This will be followed by a panel discussion titled “Where Contemporary Art Happens Now”, featuring eminent voices such as Rakhee Shenoy (Textile Artist), Devika Sundar (Art Psychotherapist), Nidhi Mariam Jacob (Artist & Muralist), Sandilya Theurkauf, and Vivek Radhakrishnan (Sculpture & Relief Artist). The conversation will explore what it means to practice, present, and sustain art in India today. The evening will conclude with a creatives’ mixer where artists, collectors, cultural practitioners, and guests will come together in a more informal setting. Extending conversations beyond the gallery, it offers an opportunity to exchange ideas, build new connections, and engage with the city’s creative community.

MAHE Achieves Landmark Certification Of BSL-3 Laboratory, Strengthening India’s High-Containment Research Capacity

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, proudly announces the successful certification of its Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) Laboratory by Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, marking a significant milestone in the MAHE’s sustained commitment to excellence in biomedical research, infectious disease preparedness, and global health security. This achievement substantially enhances MAHE's research, diagnostic, and training capabilities. The certification underscores MAHE’s adherence to internationally accepted biosafety and biosecurity standards and reflects its unwavering commitment to the highest levels of laboratory safety and scientific integrity. With this milestone, MAHE further consolidates its position as a leading centre for advanced research, diagnostics, and capacity building in infectious diseases.

The newly certified facility is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced biosafety engineering. It features specialised containment architecture, negative pressure environments with directional airflow, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration systems, secure access controls, and stringent operational protocols. The certification process involved a rigorous and comprehensive evaluation encompassing laboratory design, engineering controls, biosafety management systems, standard operating procedures, personnel training and competency, and emergency preparedness.

The establishment and certification of this advanced facility were accomplished under the leadership of Dr Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay, Director, Manipal Institute of Virology (MIV), Manipal, with strong collaborative support from Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MCOPS), Manipal School of Life Sciences (MSLS), and Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal. The facility will serve as a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary collaboration among microbiologists, virologists, clinicians, epidemiologists, and public health experts. In addition to enabling cutting-edge research, it will play a vital role in strengthening national and regional preparedness by offering specialised training in biosafety practices, high-containment laboratory operations, and outbreak response strategies.

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The certification of the BSL-3 laboratory is a proud and defining moment for MAHE. It reflects our unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and public health. Notably, this is among the first stand-alone, state-of-the-art BSL-3 facilities within a premier private university in India, poised to serve the nation at a broader level and contribute to the national BSL-3 consortium in the future.”

Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, VSM (Retd.) MAHE stated, “This advanced facility will empower our researchers to undertake critical studies on airborne and high-risk pathogens and to conduct critical work such as pathogen isolation, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, molecular diagnostics, vaccine and drug development, host–pathogen interaction studies, aerosol transmission research, and evaluation of biosafety protocols. It reinforces MAHE’s commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and public health, while strengthening India’s biomedical research ecosystem and contributing to global infectious disease preparedness.”

Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE, added, “This facility will foster high-quality, multi-institutional and multidisciplinary research, and is poised to emerge as a centre of excellence for advanced infectious disease research in southern India.”

With this achievement, MAHE joins a select group of institutions in India equipped with certified BSL-3 laboratories, further reinforcing its leadership in biomedical innovation, infectious disease research, and global health security.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

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

Mourya Concepts Celebrates 20 Years With Employee-Centric Initiatives; 135 Two-Wheelers Distributed Across India

Mourya Concepts marked its 20th anniversary with a significant employee welfare initiative, distributing 135 two-wheelers to its workforce across India, reinforcing its strong people-first philosophy.

With an expanding national presence comprising 45 branches and a team of over 330 employees, the company continues to grow, driven by a focused commitment to employment generation and workforce empowerment.

Further strengthening its progressive outlook, Mourya Concepts recently gifted six Mahindra BE6 electric vehicles worth ₹1.5 crore, reflecting its emphasis on sustainability and forward-looking practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Founder Vaynugopal said, “Our employees are the backbone of our organisation. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing their mobility, improving productivity, and supporting their overall growth.”

Over the past two decades, Mourya Concepts has built a strong reputation across sectors, including valuation, chartered engineering, and real estate services. Its journey continues to be anchored in trust, expansion, and meaningful job creation across India.   

LGE India Manufacturing Plants Accelerate Transition To Renewable Energy With Solar PPAs With Hinduja Renewables And Sunsure Energy

The initiative will generate over 3.2 crore units of clean electricity annually, equivalent to powering up to 50,000 Indian households each year

As part of its commitment to expand clean energy adoption across its manufacturing operations, LGE India, one of India’s leading consumer electronics brands, has signed long-term solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Limited (HREPL) and Sunsure Energy. LGE India will source solar power for its Greater Noida and Pune manufacturing facilities, thereby reducing its carbon footprint while strengthening its transition towards sustainable manufacturing.

As part of these tie-ups, LGE India has signed a 9.80 megawatt peak (MWp) solar PPA with HREPL for its Pune manufacturing facility and an 11 MWp solar PPA with Sunsure Energy for its Greater Noida facility. LGE India will source approximately 3.21 crore units of renewable energy annually for both facilities, collectively offsetting around 0.61 million metric tonnes of CO2e over the project lifetime.

“This project represents a defining milestone for LGE India, marking our first captive renewable energy project in the country and reinforcing our decisive shift towards sustainable manufacturing,” said Mr. Hong Ju Jeon, Managing Director and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, LGE India. “It strongly aligns with LG’s global sustainability commitments, including our transition towards achieving 100% renewable energy under the RE100 initiative. Beyond powering our operations, these collaborations also strengthen our contribution to meeting India’s net-zero ambitions for 2070 and accelerate our journey towards responsible manufacturing. By integrating clean energy with our production ecosystem, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also enhancing the global competitiveness of LGE India’s products.”

HREPL will supply 1.61 crore units of clean power annually from its 27.7 MWp solar plant in Nanded, Maharashtra, helping meet 40% of the Pune facility’s energy needs and offset 0.31 million metric tonnes of CO2e over the project lifetime. Similarly, Sunsure Energy will supply approximately 1.6 crore units of renewable electricity annually from its 82.5 MWp solar plant in Erach, Uttar Pradesh, enabling LGE India to meet around 30% of its Greater Noida facility’s energy requirement and increase total renewable energy consumption at the plant to approximately 50%, while offsetting 0.30 million metric tonnes of CO2e over the project lifetime.

Mr. Deepak Thakur, MD & CEO, HREPL said, “We are pleased to be a part of LGE India’s sustainability journey. This milestone underscores LGE India’s long-term commitment to renewable energy adoption and will help accelerate its transition to a clean manufacturing to achieve carbon neutrality and propel it towards a more sustainable future. This project reflects HREPL’s commitment to delivering reliable green power solutions that help organisations reduce their carbon footprint.”

Highlighting the tie-up, Mr. Shashank Sharma, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Sunsure Energy said, “Sunsure Energy is at the forefront of driving India’s industrial decarbonisation across sectors and geographies and is proud to advance the clean energy transition of LG Electronics in India. This collaboration goes beyond a power purchase agreement - it marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with LG Electronics India, a company known for its quality, engineering excellence, and consistency - values that strongly resonate with us at Sunsure. Through this collaboration, LGE India’s products manufactured in India will be powered by clean energy, enabling consumers to make more sustainable choices.”

Both the agreements are for a period of 25 years and will officially begin in the second quarter of CY2026. These agreements mark LGE India’s first strategic equity investment in an Indian special purpose vehicle (SPV) for power generation.

About LG Electronics India Ltd

LG Electronics India Limited (LGEIL) was established in January 1997 in India. It is focused on various consumer electronics and B2B businesses, from home appliances and media entertainment to HVAC and commercial displays. LGEIL's manufacturing units at Greater Noida and Ranjangaon, Pune has the capacity to manufacture LED TVs, air conditioners, commercial air conditioning systems, washing machines, refrigerators, and monitors.

KFC Introduces Shawarma With A Twist: Presenting The All New Crispy Shawowrma Wrap

* Priced starting at just ₹169, KFC’s Crispy ShaWOWrma Wrap is a WOW twist to the familiar favourite

Shawarma lovers across India are about to be WOW-ed, with the launch of KFC India’s all new Crispy ShaWOWrma Wrap.

The all-new menu item is KFC’s twist on the familiar favourite. The KFC Crispy ShaWOWrma Wrap comes with a deliciously toasted tortilla wrap, loaded with KFC’s iconic crispy Peri-Peri chicken strips, creamy shawarma mayo, fresh lettuce & tangy pickled Mediterranean veggies.

Priced starting at just ₹169, the all-new Crispy ShaWOWrma Wrap is available across all 1300+ KFC restaurants in India for dine-in & takeaway, as well as via the KFC app, website (https://online.kfc.co.in/) or via leading food delivery apps.

So shawarma fans, what are you waiting for? It’s time for the all-new Crispy ShaWOWrma Wrap.

About KFC

KFC, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM.), is a global chicken restaurant brand with a rich, decades-long history of success and innovation. It all started with one cook, Colonel Harland Sanders, who created a finger lickin’ good recipe more than 80 years ago, a list of secret herbs and spices scratched out on the back of the door to his kitchen. Today we still follow his formula for success, with real cooks breading and freshly preparing our delicious chicken by hand in more than 26,000 restaurants in over 145 countries and territories around the world.

For more information, visit https://online.kfc.co.in/

OPPO India Expands Service Center 3.0 Prorollout To 150+ Locations In 2026

OPPO India today announced the expansion of its Service Center 3.0 Pro network to over 150 locations across India in 2026, up from its earlier direction of 110 centers, with 50+ of these centers expected to be operational by June 2026. This expansion reinforces the brand’s commitment to transparent, accessible, and high-quality after-sales service.

As smartphones continue to power everyday experiences, from communication and work to digital payments and entertainment, OPPO India continues to strengthen its after-sales service ecosystem. With this accelerated expansion, OPPO is doubling down on after-sales as a key pillar of brand experience, aligning with its long-term focus on user satisfaction and service-led differentiation.

Service Center 3.0 Pro is designed to meet the expectations of modern users. The centers integrate digital check-ins, real-time queue updates, and dynamic digital signage, keeping customers informed throughout their visit. Face-to-face repair and servicing enhance clarity and trust, while refreshed layouts, dedicated product experience zones, and comfortable lounges provide a streamlined and welcoming environment.

OPPO also focuses on building staff expertise, multilingual communication channels, and speed of first response, with many customers receiving assistance within minutes of arrival.

Goldee Patnaik, Head of Communications, OPPO India said, “Customer expectations continue to shape our service strategy at OPPO India. With Service Center 3.0 Pro, we are delivering transparent, efficient, and consistent experiences across touchpoints. Building on strong user adoption, we are accelerating our expansion to 150+ locations. As per OPPO India internal research, over 90% of our customers already value our 1-hour turnaround time, and we are committed to grow value for our users with an agile, adaptive, and accessible after-sales ecosystem.”

Industry insights highlight repair transparency as a key driver of user trust. As per Counterpoint Research benchmarking insights*, OPPO ranked the highest in the repair process being transparent and clear, enabling users to gain greater confidence in how their devices are handled.

The brand continues to reinforce its commitment to customer support through a service network spanning 580+ service centers across more than 500 cities in India, with assistance available in 19 languages. The brand also offers free pick-up and drop for repairs and aims to deliver 24-hour turnaround for most service requests. Thus, helping minimize downtime and ensuring a smooth and dependable ownership experience for customers nationwide.

About OPPO India

Founded in 2014, OPPO Mobiles India Pvt Ltd (OPPO India) is a leading technology company in India, renowned for its innovative and diverse portfolio, including the Find, Reno, F, K, and A series smartphones, as well as IoT devices. The company is headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana.

OPPO has been at the forefront of technological innovation, particularly in imaging technology, device durability, and battery health optimisation. Guided by the philosophy ‘Make Your Moment’, OPPO empowers users to create and embrace the beauty of life through advanced technology, fostering freedom and fulfillment in everyday experiences.

Spanning over 110 acres, the company operates one of India’s largest mobile manufacturing facilities in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. With multiple production lines, assembly stations and testing stations, the plant is capable of dispatching hundreds of micro parts to produce approximately 200 smartphones in under 10 minutes. As a socially responsible organization, OPPO India actively engages in initiatives focused on skill development and e-waste awareness among the country’s youth.

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - "Smiley Face" - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with the ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

*Counterpoint Research 2024-2025.

Tata Power Skill Development Institute Expands Green Skilling Footprint With ICICI Foundation Through Centre In Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

* Commences tribal youth training batches with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs across Prayagraj, Odisha and Jharkhand, inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Jual Oram.

Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, through its skilling arm Tata Power Skill Development Institute (TPSDI), is set to expand its national footprint with the inauguration of a new training centre in Prayagraj in partnership with ICICI Foundation. The centre aims to equip local youth and women with industry-relevant skills in power, renewable energy, and allied sectors, supporting India’s growing demand for a future-ready workforce.

The centre was jointly inaugurated by Ms. Saumya Agarwal (IAS), Commissioner, Prayagraj, and Mr. Himal Tewari (CHRO, Chief – Sustainability & CSR, Tata Power), in the presence of Mr. Ashok Panda, CEO, PPGCL, and Mr. Alok Prasad, Head – TPSDI, marking another milestone in Tata Power’s commitment to advancing skill development through collaborative partnerships.

The TPSDI–Prayagraj centre will offer industry-aligned, hands-on training in renewable energy technologies, including solar PV installation and maintenance, electrical safety, and energy efficiency.

TPSDI, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has also launched specialised training batches for tribal youth, which were virtually inaugurated by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram. These programmes will commence at the Prayagraj centre and across TPSDI’s four newly established centres in Odisha – Balasore, Dhenkanal, Berhampur and Sambalpur – as well as its existing centres in Cuttack, Maithon (Jharkhand) and Jojobera (Jharkhand).

The centre will also deliver training programmes under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, with certifications designed to enhance employability and enable faster placement with industry stakeholders, including EPC companies, channel partners, and service providers.

Since its inception, TPSDI has established itself as a leading institute in energy sector skilling, offering over 200 modular courses across domains such as Green Energy, Power Systems, Transmission & Distribution, Safety, and Soft Skills. The institute has trained over 4.2 lakh individuals, contributing more than 1.6 million person-days of training, including significant participation from women and beneficiaries from affirmative action groups.

With the establishment of the Prayagraj centre, Tata Power aims to build a strong local talent pipeline to support regional energy infrastructure and future projects. The initiative is expected to contribute to sustainable livelihoods while supporting India’s broader clean energy and skilling ambitions.

The inauguration underscores Tata Power’s ongoing commitment to nation-building through skill development, empowering communities, and supporting India’s transition towards a resilient and sustainable energy future.

About Tata Power:

The Tata Power Company Limited, a leading integrated power company and a part of the Tata Group, India's largest multinational business conglomerate, owns a diversified portfolio of 16.3 GW. This portfolio spans the entire power value chain, from renewable and conventional energy generation to transmission, distribution, trading, storage solutions, and solar cell and module manufacturing. As a pioneer in India's clean energy transition, Tata Power has 7.5 GW of clean energy generation, constituting 46% of its total capacity. Committed to achieving Net Zero by 2045, Tata Power has successfully partnered with public and private entities across India's generation, transmission, and distribution sectors, serving ~13 million customers nationwide.

A Festival Of Fresh Vietnamese Flavours At Blue Ginger, Taj West End

Inspired by the purity and finesse of Vietnamese cuisine, Blue Ginger at Taj West End, Bengaluru, presents a Festival of Fresh Vietnamese Flavours — a refined midday experience designed for leisurely tropical afternoons. From 27th to 29th March 2026, the limited-period festival brings together light, refreshing flavours in a setting that celebrates calm, elegance, and balance.

Over three thoughtfully curated days, the menu showcases a harmonious selection of light broths, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, delicate proteins, and chilled desserts — reflecting the essence of Vietnam’s most refreshing culinary traditions. Rooted in simplicity yet elevated in execution, the experience offers a graceful interplay of textures and flavours.

The culinary journey begins with a delicate Vermicelli Noodle Soup, available in both chicken and vegetarian variants, followed by a vibrant selection of salads including glass noodle with crispy tofu, green apple and green mango, and young papaya salad with shrimp. Guests can also savour beautifully crafted rice paper rolls with options ranging from tofu and garden greens to shrimp with chicken, alongside flavourful crab claws that highlight the finesse of Vietnamese coastal cuisine. The experience concludes on a soothing note with elegant desserts such as water chestnut in coconut milk and Vietnamese coffee mousse, offering a cool and refined finish.

Venue: Blue Ginger, Taj West End, Bengaluru
Dates: 27 March – 29 March 2026
Timings: 12:30 PM – 2:45 PM
Reservations: +91 80666 05660 / +91 79075 78474

Air India Touches Down At Rome Fiumicino Airport, Expanding Mainland Europe Network To 8 Gateways

Air India inaugurated its new 4x weekly non-stop service to Rome Fiumicino, touching down at the Italian capital city after nearly six years and thus, expanding its presence in Mainland Europe. Rome is Air India’s eighth gateway in Mainland Europe and the second destination in Italy, after Milan.

Flight AI123 departed from Delhi at 1332 Hrs (IST) of 25 March, landing at Rome Fiumicino in the evening to a warm welcome from dignitaries from the Indian Embassy in Italy, Fiumicino airport officials, and Air India staff.

The first flight was welcomed by a delegation including H.E. Ms Vani Rao, Ambassador of India to Italy and San Marino; Mr Gaurav Gandhi, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India in Rome; Mr. Swaminathan Krishnamoorthy, Head of Chancery, Embassy of India in Rome; and senior officials from Aeroporti Di Roma, who also inaugurated the departing flight from Rome, which landed in Delhi at 1029 Hrs (IST) today. The dignitaries celebrated the occasion with a traditional Indian ceremony of lamp-lighting, cake-cutting and honouring the first passenger to board the flight.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “Demand for travel between India and Europe continues to grow across both leisure and business segments, with the two nations sharing so much in common culturally, and their increasing exchange that continues to deepen business, trade, and people-to-people ties. We are delighted to reconnect the two historic capital cities while also enabling seamless onward travels via our Delhi hub to and from destinations across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.”

Deepening India-Italy ties

Italy remains an important partner for India across trade, tourism and cultural exchange. Bilateral trade between the two countries surpassed USD 14 billion in 2025, supported by strong collaboration in sectors like engineering, automative, fashion and design. Italy is also home to one of the largest Indian communities in continental Europe, with more than 200,000 people of Indian origin contributing to steadily growing travel demand between the two countries.

“We are pleased to welcome Air India’s arrival in Rome,” said Ivan Bassato, Chief Aviation Officer of Aeroporti di Roma. “The new direct connection to Delhi enhances our offering to the Indian capital and meets the growing travel demand between Italy and India. This new route further strengthens Rome Fiumicino’s role as a leading international hub in the Mediterranean, increasingly central to air links with Asia.”

Flight schedule

Air India now operates between Delhi and Rome four times a week – on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays – using its B787-8 aircraft. The aircraft features a two-class cabin configuration with 18 fully flat beds in Business Class and 241 spacious seats in Economy Class, offering guests a comfortable flying experience complemented by Air India’s signature warm Indian hospitality and onboard service.

The flight schedule has been designed to enable convenient connections via Delhi to several destinations across India and Southeast Asia, including but not limited to Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malysia, Singapore, and Vietnam. This enables travellers from Italy to easily access Air India’s growing international and domestic network

 

SCHEDULE OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN DELHI (DEL) AND ROME (FCO)
Flight #	City Pair	Departure	Arrival
AI123	Delhi-Rome	1315 Hrs	1855 Hrs
AI122	Rome-Delhi	2050Hrs	0900 Hrs+1
All times local. +1 indicates next calendar day arrival.

Air India now flies non-stop from India to eight points in Mainland Europe, namely Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Milan, Paris, Rome, Vienna, and Zurich.

Bookings for Air India’s flights between Delhi and Rome are available on all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, contact centres, and through travel agents worldwide.

About Air India group

The Air India group – comprising of full-service global airline, Air India, and value carrier, Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries customers to 59 domestic and 51 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to the Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India group is in the midst of a five-year transformation program, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India has placed an order for 600 new aircraft. In 2024, sister airlines Air Asia India and Vistara were successfully merged into Air India Express and Air India, respectively, and the Airline opened South Asia’s largest aviation training academy. A new flying school is scheduled to open in 2026, and construction of a greenfield maintenance base, to be operational in 2026, is underway. In addition to receiving new aircraft, all existing aircraft are progressively undergoing a full interior refit.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.

For more stories on Air India, visit http://www.airindia.com/newsroom

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Unveils Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ ₹200 Crore CSR Initiative For FY 2026–27

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the world’s fifth-largest retail jewellery group and a responsible jewellery brand, has announced their CSR initiatives worth INR 200 crore for the financial year 2026-27 held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi in the presence of Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.

At the CSR initiative, the Union Minister inaugurated the distribution of educational scholarships for 33,000 girl students across India. The event was attended by Malabar Group Chairman Mr. M.P. Ahammad, Managing Director - India Operations Mr. O. Asher, Executive Directors Mr. Nishad A.K. and Mr. Abdulla Ibrahim, Kerala House Resident Commissioner Mr. Puneet Kumar, IAS, Pratham CEO Ms. Rukmini Banerji, and Thanal Chairman Dr. Idris, among others.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the initiatives of the Malabar Charitable Trust align closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of empowering India’s daughters through programs like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao.

He added that “Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ decision to allocate INR 200 crore towards CSR will further strengthen the nation’s progress,” emphasizing that India’s growth is rooted in the empowerment of its people - especially women and girls and appreciating the company’s efforts in driving meaningful change through education.”

“He also encouraged students and young citizens to dream big, aspire beyond limitations, and seize the vast opportunities India offers, urging them to contribute actively to the nation’s growth story”.

Malabar Group, Chairman, Mr. M.P. Ahammad highlighted “Human resource development is the backbone of national growth. He noted that nurturing talent through quality education is essential, and that the scholarship programme enables students to achieve academic success and contribute to the country’s development. He added that the group remains committed to creating sustainable, long-term societal impact through significant CSR investments.”

During 2026-27, CSR projects worth INR 200 crore will be implemented across more than 3,000 locations in 19 states, covering 15 major initiatives. These programmes are expected to benefit over 2 lakh people.

A significant focus is on education with INR 114 crore allocated to initiatives such as micro-learning centres for street children and national scholarship programmes for girls. INR 30 crore has been earmarked for food distribution under the Hunger Free World project, and INR 14.2 crore for healthcare initiatives. Housing projects, including the ‘Grandma Home’ initiative for destitute mothers, will receive INR 25 crore. Additionally, INR 6.8 crore will be allocated for other humanitarian activities and INR 10 crore for environmental protection.

As part of the Malabar Group’s 33rd anniversary, scholarships will be awarded this year to 33,000 girl students from 284 districts across 18 states. Since its inception, the programme has benefited over 1,15,000 girls. All CSR initiatives are implemented through the Malabar Charitable Trust.

For the rehabilitation of street children, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has established 1,543 micro-learning centres across 17 states in partnership with Pratham Education Foundation, one of India’s largest NGOs. The number of centres will be increased to 2,500 this year, with student enrolment expected to grow from over 64,000 to 1 lakh.

Under the Hunger Free World project, nutritious meals are provided daily to 1,15,000 people across India, Zambia, and Ethiopia. Other CSR initiatives include the ‘Grandma Home’ project, which provides free accommodation and care for destitute women, and Malabar-Thanal pharmacies that offer medicines at subsidized rates to the underprivileged.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ operations are guided by ESG principles. Since its inception, the company has allocated 5% of its net trading profit towards CSR activities. These initiatives focus on women empowerment, healthcare, education, and environmental protection, in collaboration with NGOs such as Pratham and Thanal.

These efforts have already brought positive change to the lives of over 1.8 million people across India.

About Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Malabar Gold & Diamonds was established in 1993 and is the flagship company of Malabar Group, a leading diversified Indian business conglomerate. With an annual turnover of $7.36 billion, the company currently ranks as the 5th largest jewellery retailer globally and operates a strong retail network of over 425 showrooms across 14 countries, supported by offices, design centres, wholesale units, and manufacturing facilities across India, the Middle East, the Far East, the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The group, owned by more than 3,500 shareholders, has over 30,000 professionals from more than 26 countries working towards its continued growth. Malabar Gold & Diamonds also operates an online store, enabling customers to purchase jewellery at any time.

ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) has been a core commitment of Malabar Group since its inception. The key ESG focus areas of the Group include health, housing, hunger eradication, education, environment, and women empowerment. The group contributes five percent of its profits to social responsibility initiatives in the same country of operation.

Photo Caption: Piyush Goyal - Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, M P Ahammad – Chairman, Malabar Group, Asher O - Managing Director - India Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Kirit Bhansali – Chairman GJEPC at the unveiling of Malabar Gold & Diamonds CSR initiative for FY 2026 -27 along with other respected dignitaries and scholarship recipients.

How To Be The Pillar: Supporting Loved Ones Through Early Breast Cancer

At 45, Shalini thought the hardest part of her early breast cancer diagnosis would be chemotherapy. But months after her tumour was removed and chemotherapy ended, she found herself lying awake at night, replaying one thought: What if it comes back? Her doctors had explained that her cancer was detected early and that further treatment would help reduce the risk of recurrence. Still, the uncertainty felt heavy. What steadied her was not just medical reassurance, it was her daughter setting daily medication reminders on her phone, her husband accompanying her to every follow-up visit, and her family treating each clear scan as a shared victory. In those quiet acts of support, Shalini found the strength to focus not only on survival, but on living fully again.

Early breast cancer today is increasingly treatable, with outcomes improving due to timely diagnosis and evolving therapies. Yet the journey doesn’t end with surgery or chemotherapy. The possibility of recurrence can weigh heavily, and extended treatments may continue for months or years to reduce that risk. During this phase, quality of life, physical energy, emotional stability, and daily routine, becomes just as important as medical milestones. This is where loved ones play a defining role.

Prof Dr Somashekhar SP, Chairman Medical Advisory Board, Aster DM Healthcare & Global Director, Aster International Institute of Oncology Bangalore India, said, "It's a common misconception that early breast cancer is completely curable. The reality is that the risk of recurrence can be as high as 50%.[1]So, our main goal is to minimize this risk of recurrence, not just treat the initial tumor. Advanced targeted therapies allow us to do this effectively for eligible patients, helping them maintain their quality of life. Family support is crucial in this journey, as their understanding encourages patients to adhere to treatment and builds emotional resilience."

Supporting someone through early breast cancer is not about grand gestures. It is about consistent, informed, compassionate presence. Here are 4 ways you can support your loved ones through their early breast cancer journey-

1. Learn About Advanced Treatments Together

For women diagnosed with early breast cancer, advanced therapies including hormone-based drugs and targeted treatments can reduce the risk of recurrence while maintaining the quality of life. Take the time to understand why additional therapy may be recommended even after the tumour is removed. Be actively involved during medical consultations- attend doctor appointments together write down questions in advance, and discuss concerns openly. When you learn together, decisions feel shared rather than overwhelming, and adherence to treatment becomes stronger.

2. Create Space for Recurrence Conversations

Fear of recurrence can surface suddenly, before a scan, during a minor ache, or even on a happy day. Instead of dismissing worries, acknowledge them. Simple words like, “I’m here, tell me what you’re feeling,” can ease emotional isolation. Being a safe space for vulnerability strengthens trust and reduces silent anxiety.

3. Protect Quality of Life in Everyday Ways

Healing is not only clinical, it is deeply personal. Help maintain balanced meals, encourage doctor-approved physical activity, and support adequate rest. Manage medication reminders if needed. Plan small activities that bring joy and normalcy. By focusing on energy, positivity, and routine, you help ensure that treatment supports life, rather than putting it on hold.

4. Celebrate Progress, However Small

Completion of a treatment cycle, a stable scan, improved lab results, or even a week of regained strength, each is worth acknowledging. Create rituals around milestones, whether it’s a favourite meal, a family photo, or a quiet moment of gratitude. These celebrations shift the focus from fear of recurrence to shared resilience.

Early breast cancer may begin as a medical diagnosis, but navigating recurrence risk and long-term therapy is a shared journey. Advanced treatments are reshaping outcomes, offering renewed hope for recurrence-free futures and preserved quality of life. Yet the true pillar of strength often stands at home, in the loved one who listens, learns, shows up, and stays.