Hombale Films unveiled Mystic Pillars x Kantara at GAFX 2026, marking its expansion into interactive entertainment. The update integrates themes of folklore, spirituality, and environmental balance from the Kantara universe into the acclaimed puzzle game Mystic Pillars, originally developed by Holy Cow Productions. Featuring 12 new themed puzzles, cinematic cutscenes with Kannada voice-overs, and environmental restoration mechanics, the expansion is available across PlayStation, PC, and mobile platforms.
Further extending the universe beyond screens, Hombale Films also announced a Kantara-inspired tabletop card game developed by Mozaic Games. Designed as a light strategy, semi-cooperative experience for 2–6 players, the game explores themes of land, karma, and collective responsibility. Players balance individual goals while protecting shared forest resources — where collapse means everyone loses.
The tabletop game will be officially unveiled at GAFX this month with demo sessions and designer interactions.
With these initiatives, Hombale Films signals its evolution beyond film production, building a multi-format storytelling ecosystem that brings culturally rooted narratives into gaming and shared play experiences for audiences in India and globally.
Sunday, March 1, 2026
Micron Celebrates Opening Of India’s First Semiconductor Assembly And Test Facility
Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: MU) today celebrated the grand opening of its semiconductor assembly and test facility in Sanand, Gujarat, India. The state-of-the-art facility converts advanced DRAM and NAND wafers from Micron's global manufacturing network into finished memory and storage products. Once fully ramped, the first phase of Micron’s Sanand operation will feature more than 500,000 square feet of cleanroom space, making it one of the world’s largest single-floor assembly and test cleanrooms. The site serves customers worldwide to meet the growing global demand for memory and storage fueled by AI.
The facility represents a combined investment of approximately $2.75 billion by Micron and its government partners, advancing semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in India. Micron Chairman, President and CEO Sanjay Mehrotra and other executives witnessed the opening ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel,
Union Minister for Railways, Communications, Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw, U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and other distinguished government officials and guests.
"Today is a proud moment for Micron and India's growing semiconductor industry," said Sanjay Mehrotra, Chairman, President and CEO of Micron Technology. “This pioneering facility, the first assembly and test site of its kind in the country, helps build a resilient ecosystem that underpins the global AI economy. We are deeply grateful to the government of India, the Gujarat government and all of the partners involved for their steadfast support in making this achievement possible."
The Sanand site is ISO 9001:2015 certified and has begun commercial production. To mark the grand opening of the site, Micron presented its first shipment of made-in-India memory modules to Dell Technologies for its laptops made in India for India. Micron expects to assemble and test tens of millions of chips at Sanand in 2026, scaling to hundreds of millions in 2027. The expansion of conventional assembly and test operations in India complements Micron's planned development of advanced manufacturing and packaging capabilities in the United States and strengthens the company’s global assembly and test network.
“The inauguration of Micron’s semiconductor facility in Sanand marks a historic milestone as Bharat begins its first commercial semiconductor chip production,” said Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. “This is a decisive step towards building a trusted, resilient and self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji. India is now moving from being a consumer of chips to becoming a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing and innovation.”
Micron is building India's next generation of semiconductor talent to support its operations in India. Through partnerships with Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), Namtech, leading universities nationwide and government-sponsored skills development programs, Micron is supporting STEM education, specialized training, workforce readiness for advanced manufacturing roles and community initiatives, including digital and AI literacy programs across the region.
Micron built and is operating the assembly and test facility in accordance with the company's sustainability goals, rigorous health and safety standards, and with local and global environmental commitments. The facility is designed to meet or exceed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold standards. Additionally, the facility uses advanced water-saving technologies to enable zero liquid discharge.
About Micron Technology, Inc.
Micron Technology, Inc. is an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions, transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND and NOR memory and storage products. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and compute-intensive applications that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com
Saturday, February 28, 2026
HDFC Bank Parivartan Expands STEM Education Initiatives, Reaching Over 47,000 Students Across India
• 35 Accessible STEM Labs established for students with disabilities across six regions
• ISRO-aligned Astronomy and Space Labs inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh
On National Science Day, HDFC Bank announced the expansion of its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education initiatives under HDFC Bank Parivartan, its flagship CSR programme. Through partnerships with leading implementation organisations, the bank strengthening access to experiential and inclusive science education for students in underserved communities. The expanded portfolio integrates mobile science infrastructure, accessible learning tools for students with disabilities, and specialised astronomy and space laboratories. These interventions collectively aim to support over 35,000 students across Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, and the Northeast.
Aligned with the national vision of building a "Viksit Bharat 2047 and advancing scientific temper and innovation," HDFC Bank Parivartan’s STEM initiatives focus on bridging the gap between classroom instruction and practical experimentation. The emphasis remains on hands-on learning, digital fluency, and inclusive access to quality science education.
Commenting on the initiative, Nusrat Pathan, Head of CSR, HDFC Bank, said, "Developing scientific curiosity at an early stage is critical to building future-ready learners. Through Parivartan, we are working to broaden access to experiential STEM education, particularly in underserved geographies. Our approach focuses on inclusion, practical exposure, and partnerships that enable sustained impact across schools and communities.
Key Initiatives Highlighted on National Science Day:
1. Strengthening Science Infrastructure in Maharashtra
In partnership with the Agastya International Foundation, HDFC Bank has launched a comprehensive STEM program across 11 districts in Maharashtra, including Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar.
· Establishment of eight science centres and three integrated mobile science labs
· Introduction of a Mobile Innovation Lab equipped with 3D printers and microcontrollers for students in Classes 7–9
· Delivery of a 16-module curriculum covering coding and algorithmic thinking for 12,000 government school students
The mobile lab model is designed to extend science access to schools with limited laboratory infrastructure, enabling practical experimentation and design-based learning.
Building on this momentum, HDFC Bank Parivartan has also approved an initiative in partnership with YUVA Unstoppable to establish STEM Labs in 120 government and aided schools across Maharashtra over the next two years.
· Integration of smart classroom technology with practical STEM tools to address gaps in digital infrastructure and align with NEP 2020 learning requirements
· Empowering teachers with modern resources to deliver experiential and technology-enabled science and mathematics education
· Strengthening learning outcomes across rural and urban schools to prepare students for higher education and emerging career pathways
2. Inclusive STEM Access for Speech and Hearing Impaired Students
Through a partnership with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, the “Learning Without Limits” initiative is establishing 35 Accessible STEM Labs in deaf schools across five States in India.
• STEM content adapted and interpreted in sign language to support conceptual understanding
• Training of over 200 teachers in assistive technology and inclusive teaching practices
• Direct support for more than 2900+ speech and hearing-impaired students
The initiative seeks to make scientific learning more accessible while strengthening teacher capacity within special education institutions.
3. Promoting Astronomy and Space Science in Uttar Pradesh
In collaboration with Ambuja Foundation, HDFC Bank has established advanced Astronomy and Space Labs in Uttar Pradesh.
• An Astronomy Lab at Army Public School, Lucknow, featuring ISRO-aligned models to enable hands-on understanding of space science
• A Space Lab at Raj Bhavan, Lucknow, providing access to children of staff and visiting students from government and private schools
These facilities aim to stimulate interest in astronomy and space exploration while expanding exposure to emerging scientific disciplines.
4. Hub-and-Spoke STEM Model in Pune
Working with WOSCA and Life-Lab, the “Jigyasa Max – Touch Plus Tech” programme has introduced an integrated STEM model across 48 schools in Pune.
• Reached 10,462 students
• Deployment of a gamified digital learning platform to strengthen digital literacy
• Community engagement initiatives such as at-home science experiments to extend learning beyond school hours
The hub-and-spoke model supports structured teacher training and scalable science engagement within local communities.
HDFC Bank Parivartan continues to align its education initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on Quality Education (SDG 4). By integrating digital tools such as coding modules and 3D printing with foundational science education, the programme aims to strengthen scientific learning while ensuring access and inclusion remain central to implementation.
Abbott, Novo Nordisk India Partner To Launch Extensior®, Broadening Access To Semaglutide For Advanced Diabetes
* Under the agreement, Abbott will commercialize Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide (Ozempic®) under the brand name Extensior®
* Extensior® offers powerful HbA1c reduction, weight-loss benefits, and proven risk reduction of cardiovascular and kidney events in people with type 2 diabetes[i]
Abbott, the global healthcare leader, today announced a strategic collaboration with Novo Nordisk India to commercialize Extensior® for people living with type 2 diabetes. This partnership leverages Novo Nordisk’s scientific leadership in GLP-1s and Abbott’s strong distribution network to expand access in India to a high-quality, evidence-based diabetes therapy, beyond regions Novo Nordisk currently serves. Extensior® is a second brand of Ozempic®, the world’s most prescribed GLP-1 RA (receptor agonist) molecule.[ii]
Extensior® is approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise for adults with type 2 diabetes and is a GLP-1 RA recognized for offering the broadest range of benefits for people with this condition. Semaglutide, the molecule in Extensior®, has demonstrated powerful HbA1c reduction, compelling weight-loss benefits, and proven risk reduction of cardiovascular and kidney events in people with type 2 diabetes.1 Semaglutide has demonstrated safety and efficacy through 44+ robust clinical trials and 10+ real-world studies across type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart, liver and kidney disease. It has been on the market globally for close to a decade and has more than 49 million patient years* of use across all semaglutide products.[iii]
Extensior® will be introduced in India as part of Abbott’s expanding portfolio of advanced diabetes solutions and is expected to be available for Indian patients soon. Kartik Rajendran, Managing Director, Abbott India Limited said, “India is facing one of the world’s fastest‑growing diabetes burdens, and addressing this challenge requires continuous innovation and strong partnerships. The launch of Extensior® builds on Abbott’s longstanding focus on holistic diabetes management—from medicines to diagnostics, and from continuous glucose monitoring to diabetes‑specific nutrition. Developed and manufactured by Novo Nordisk, this brand will be commercialized by Abbott, aligned with our commitment to strengthen access to high-quality, evidence-based therapies to support people with diabetes across every stage of their journey.”
Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director, Novo Nordisk India said, “Semaglutide represents one of the most significant scientific advancements in diabetes care in recent decades. It has changed the way type 2 diabetes is managed, offering meaningful improvements in metabolic, renal and cardiovascular health. At Novo Nordisk, we precisely engineer this molecule through a sophisticated r-DNA process to ensure the best quality, safety and efficacy standards. Our partnership with Abbott will help make this innovative molecule accessible to a greater number of people living with type 2 diabetes in India.”
Diabetes is one of the most significant global health issues of our time. More than 100 million individuals in India live with diabetes,[iv] and this is projected to surge to more than 150 million by 2050—a 50% increase, driven by rapid urbanization, aging populations, increasing obesity and lifestyle changes.[v] Cardiovascular and kidney issues now account for much of the long‑term risk faced by people living with type 2 diabetes. India faces a worrying gap in detection and care: 43% of individuals with diabetes remain undiagnosed[vi], limiting opportunities for early intervention. As type 2 diabetes elevates cardiovascular risk, the growing burden is also straining India’s health‑care system—national diabetes‑related expenditure has already exceeded USD 9.8 billion (INR 88,000+cr).[vii]
Offering Extensior® is a meaningful step forward in expanding access to a solution that addresses holistic management of the condition.
About Extensior®/Ozempic®:
Extensior®/Ozempic® (semaglutide injection) is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with insufficiently controlled Type 2 diabetes. It offers powerful HbA1c reduction, weight-loss benefits and proven risk reduction of cardiovascular and kidney events in people with type 2 diabetes. It will be available in the FlexTouch® Pen - an easy-to-use once-weekly pen device that provides precise dosing in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg dose strengths.1 Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the medicine, is 94% homogenous to the naturally-occurring GLP-1 in the human body.[viii] In 2025, semaglutide was added to the WHO’s essential medicines list.[ix]
About Novo Nordisk:
Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 68,800 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries.
For more information, visit our website novonordisk.co.in. Follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.
MAHE Marks National Science Day 2026 With Focus On Science, Sustainability, And Innovation
Dr Hoysall N. Chanakya, Chief Research Scientist (Retd.), Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. A distinguished scientist and thought leader in sustainable technologies, Dr Chanakya has over four decades of research experience and has guided more than 10 doctoral scholars and over 20 postgraduate research students, and has led over 50 research, development, and consultancy projects. Since 1978, his work has focused on decentralised bioenergy technologies, including biogas plants and related systems, energy integration into rural livelihoods, water and wastewater purification, and the restoration of water bodies. The event will be presided over by Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, whose leadership has been instrumental in strengthening MAHE’s academic and research ecosystem.
The celebrations will be graced by senior MAHE leadership, including Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor - Technology and Science, MAHE, Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, and Dr Anil K. Bhat, Dean, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal.
National Science Day is observed across India to commemorate Sir C. V. Raman's discovery of the Raman Effect. MAHE encourages young minds to adopt a scientific approach to life and society.
About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, offering over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences, Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Technology & Science. MAHE operates through its constituent institutions across campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai.
Renowned for its academic excellence, world-class infrastructure, and impactful research contributions, MAHE has earned strong national and international recognition. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, conferred MAHE with the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE continues to be a preferred destination for students seeking a transformative learning experience and vibrant campus life, as well as for national and multinational organisations seeking top talent.
Buying and renewing Insurance Is Now As Simple As Sending A WhatsApp Message To A LovedOone
Say goodbye to the hassle of insurance management—the endless paperwork, follow-ups, and juggling multiple portals are over. For millions of people in India
WhatsApp, their go-to app for connecting with friends and family, is now also the hub for essential services like buying and renewing insurance. From purchasing a policy and paying premiums to tracking a claim, managing your insurance is as simple as a chat with a family member or a friend, all within a single WhatsApp conversation. People can choose from paying for their insurance policies using their preferred payment mode including, UPI, credit and debit cards.
Here are some insurance providers who have simplified payments for buying and renewing insurance for the people:
|HDFC Life Insurance[1]
Chat on WhatsApp: +91 8291890569
Axis Max Life Insurance[2]
Chat on WhatsApp: +91 74283 96005
Axis Max Life brings policy purchase and servicing to WhatsApp, allowing you to take care of life insurance needs without moving between platforms. You can buy a term insurance or investment plan, pay renewal premiums, track an application in progress or monitor claim status in one place. The chat also supports routine service requests and document access. Built-in financial tools help you calculate tax savings, and you can explore personalized offers or locate nearby branches if required, all starting from the same message thread.
Life Insurance Corporation of India[3]
Chat on WhatsApp: +91 8976862090
LIC policyholders can access a broad set of services on WhatsApp, from premium payments and policy status checks to downloading premium paid certificates and reviewing bonus information. Loan-related services, including eligibility, repayment quotations and interest due, are also available, along with ULIP statements and pension (IPP) details. Claim due dates, claim payment updates and service preferences can be reviewed within the same interface, bringing multiple touchpoints into one chat.
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance[4]
Chat on WhatsApp: +91 99206 67766
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance allows you to explore and manage policy services on WhatsApp, keeping key requests in a single conversation. You can purchase a policy, check your premium amount, register or track death and health claims, and monitor fund value updates without logging into separate systems. The service also supports NRI queries, group policies and quick-service options for everyday requests. FAQs and relevant service links are accessible within the chat, making WhatsApp the starting point for most policy interactions.
Bharti AXA Life Insurance[5]
Chat on WhatsApp: 02248815768
Bharti AXA Life Insurance allows you to manage essential policy services on WhatsApp, turning routine insurance tasks into a simple chat-based interaction. You can pay premiums, access your policy statement, review policy details or raise customer servicing requests without logging into multiple systems. The service also lets you update personal information, register for e-NACH, download required forms or initiate a policy surrender request. If you prefer in-person support, you can locate the nearest branch, all starting from the same WhatsApp conversation.
Samsung Innovation Campus Launched At Christ University Bengaluru, Boosting Bengaluru’s AI Talent Pipeline
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In an industry–academia collaboration in the University, the Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) was inaugurated at Christ University, Kengeri Campus. Backed by Samsung R&D Institute India Bangalore Private Limited (SRI-B), the initiative marks a major milestone in strengthening technology education in Bengaluru.
A global Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of Samsung, the program provides students with advanced skills in Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and coding and programming. Present in over 40 countries, Samsung Innovation Campus aims to prepare youth for emerging careers that is shaped by AI and machine learning.
What sets the Bengaluru launch apart is the establishment of a high-end AI simulation lab, featuring cutting-edge computing infrastructure and specialized IoT kits. The facility enables students to work on advanced simulations, real-time data modeling, and applied AI research in a hands-on environment.
Currently, students from the Department of AI and Data Science Engineering are undergoing structured training led by industry experts. The curriculum integrates academic foundations with practical exposure, ensuring alignment with current corporate standards.
Students will also participate in capstone projects addressing industrial and societal challenges. Aligned with the Government of India’s Skill India and Digital India missions, the initiative positions Christ University as a hub for advanced technology training while reinforcing Bengaluru’s reputation as India’s innovation capital.
Buying And Renewing Insurance Is Now As Simple As Sending A WhatsApp Message To A Loved One.
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