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August 2026

Shrewsbury International School India Completes Its First Year in Bhopal

One year ago today, Shrewsbury International School India admitted its first pupils to a 150-acre campus outside Bhopal – the first fully residential campus that Shrewsbury School UK, founded by Royal Charter in 1552, has established outside Britain, and the first Shrewsbury campus in South Asia. The school marks the close of its founding year having built, largely from first principles, the academic, sporting, artistic and pastoral life that will shape the pupils who come after this year’s cohort.    A Campus Built for Life A year of building  The school’s first cohort followed a programme built around the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level curriculum, alongside more than twenty sports – among them India’s first on-campus facilities for indoor rowing, fencing and scuba diving and a full pastoral programme delivered across two boarding houses. Solar power and water-harvesting infrastructure were built into the campus from its earliest planning, and a tree-planting programme across the grounds continues into its second year.    Where Learning Meets Leadership In June 2026, the school opened the Sidney Centre for the Performing Arts, its purpose-built home for drama and music, marking the occasion with its first Speech Day. Padma Shri-winning film critic and author Bhawana Somaaya joined as Guest of Honour, speaking to pupils on the arts as a discipline of truth-telling and urging them to question their own convictions as rigorously as they would defend them. That same week, the school held its first Callover – the centuries-old Shrewsbury tradition in which every pupil’s name is read aloud before the Headmaster at the close of the academic year – observed for the first time on Indian soil.  A culture, earned “There is no ‘the way we’ve always done it’ to fall back on in Year One,” says Dominic Tomalin, Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury International School India. “Every assembly, every house tradition, every small ritual that will one day feel timeless to a child in these classrooms had to be imagined, tested, and earned before it could become part of who we are.” He credits the school’s founding pupils with setting its tone: “They arrived with nothing to go on but belief – courage, commitment, and a trust in something bigger than themselves, before there was any proof it would work.”  The school has drawn deliberately on two traditions in shaping its first year: Shrewsbury’s own, running back four centuries, and India’s Gurukul model of educating the whole person rather than the mind alone. The two are held together under what the school terms its Salopian Virtues – Wisdom, Integrity, Courage, Kindness, Self-Mastery and Spirit, which inform its daily and academic life alike.  Looking ahead  Shrewsbury India has this month welcomed its second cohort of pupils, and admissions remain open for families weighing a residential education of this kind. Of the year now closed, Tomalin writes simply: “If we continue as we began, we are a legacy school in the making.”  About Shrewsbury International School India  Shrewsbury International School India is located on a 150-acre campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and is the first international campus of Shrewsbury School UK (founded 1552) outside the United Kingdom.   For further information, visit www.shrewsburyindia.in.* 

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Ampcus Cyber Convenes National Leaders at GRC India AI Conclave 2026 to Advance AI Governance, Cybersecurity, and Digital Trust

Ampcus Cyber, a global cybersecurity solutions provider, successfully hosted the GRC India AI Conclave 2026 on 7th August at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, government officials, regulators, cybersecurity leaders, CXOs, technology experts, and industry practitioners to deliberate on the future of AI governance, cyber resilience, governance, risk and compliance (GRC), and digital trust in India. The conclave reinforced the importance of collaborative action in building a secure and AI-driven digital ecosystem as artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and public services.   AI, cybersecurity and policy leaders converged at Ampcus Cyber’s GRC India AI Conclave   Held under the theme “Empowering a Secure and AI-Driven Digital India,” the day-long summit featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and expert-led conversations on India’s evolving AI governance framework, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, financial-sector resilience, cloud security, AI-enabled compliance, and emerging cyber threats. The discussions highlighted the growing need for governance frameworks that encourage innovation while ensuring security, privacy, and regulatory compliance.   The conclave brought together leaders from government, regulatory bodies, financial services, technology, and cybersecurity, with keynote sessions by experts from CERT-In, MeitY, Digi Yatra Foundation, STPI, SEBI, NPCI, Discover Financial Services, Uber, and other leading organisations. Discussions focused on AI governance, cyber resilience, continuous compliance, third-party risk, payment security, digital trust, and data protection in the AI era.   Speaking at the conclave, Deep Chanda, CEO at Ampcus Cyber, said, “The conversations at the GRC India AI Conclave reaffirmed that India’s AI future will be shaped not by technology alone, but by collaboration between policymakers, regulators, industry, academia, and cybersecurity experts. The exchange of ideas and practical insights demonstrated a shared commitment to building AI ecosystems that are secure, trustworthy, and innovation-led. As AI becomes increasingly integral to India’s digital economy, forums like these play a vital role in aligning governance, resilience, and responsible adoption. This is only the beginning of a much larger journey to ensure India leads the global AI landscape with confidence, accountability, and trust.”   A major highlight of the conclave was the Make in India launch of Ampcus Cyber’s indigenous AI-powered ComplyX portfolio, introducing three next-generation cybersecurity platforms designed to help organizations modernize governance and strengthen cyber resilience. The company unveiled GRACE, an AI-powered Governance, Risk and Compliance platform that streamlines audits, automates compliance, and delivers real-time visibility into enterprise risk; MIRROR, an autonomous continuous penetration testing platform that provides exploit-validated visibility into security vulnerabilities across digital environments; and WIZARD, an AI-driven Third-Party Risk Management platform that enables continuous vendor risk monitoring through intelligent automation.   Throughout the conclave, experts highlighted the need for responsible AI adoption, stronger cybersecurity, continuous compliance, and public-private collaboration to build a secure digital future. The GRC India AI Conclave 2026 reaffirmed Ampcus Cyber’s commitment to advancing India’s digital transformation through indigenous innovation, trusted cybersecurity solutions, and collaborative dialogue, while accelerating secure AI adoption, stronger governance, and digital trust.

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The Habitats Trust Awards Rs. 3.3 Crore to Six Biodiversity Conservation Projects Across India

The Habitats Trust (THT) announced the recipients of the ninth edition of The Habitats Trust Grants, awarding Rs. 3.3 crore to 6 conservation projects working to protect India’s threatened species and critical habitats. The selected projects span diverse ecosystems including Mangroves, Oak forests, grasslands. and demonstrate innovative, community-led and science-driven approaches to conserving the country’s rich biodiversity.   India is home to nearly 8% of the world’s recorded biodiversity, making it one of the world’s richest repositories of wildlife and ecosystems. Protecting this natural heritage requires sustained support for conservation efforts across landscapes and species, including many lesser-known flora and fauna that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Through its annual grants programme, THT supports conservation practitioners working at the forefront of these efforts, enabling innovative, science-led and community-driven solutions across the country.   This year’s grants have been awarded across three categories, reflecting the diverse conservation challenges and solutions emerging from across the country.   2026 Grant Categories and Recipients THT Conservation Grant Supports organisations addressing India’s conservation challenges, with a focus on lesser-known species and critical habitats. Arulagam – One Health Approach for Conserving Critically Endangered Vultures and Hyena in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Tamil Nadu Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology – Croak, Coexist, and Conserve: Conservation of Threatened Amphibians in Human-Shaped Landscapes of River Catchments with Community Participation in Western Ghats   THT Action Grant Supports urgent, on-ground conservation projects for lesser-known species and habitats requiring immediate intervention. Devvrat Singh – Evidence-Based, Community-Led Conservation of the Indian Wolf in Bahraich’s Intense Human–Wolf Conflict Landscapes: Strengthening OECM Approaches Nagpur Centre for Peoples Social Forum – Community-Led Grassland Conservation and Fodder Security Around the Two Protected Areas of Vidarbha   THT Research Grant Supports interdisciplinary research that informs evidence-based conservation action. Centre for Ecology, Development and Research (CEDAR) – Remnant and Restorable Ecosystem (RARE) Assessment: Developing a Blueprint for Conservation and Restoration of Himalayan Oak Forests MS Swaminathan Research Foundation – Coastal Habitat Monitoring for Enhanced Resilience, Species Conservation, and Community Well-Being   Congratulating this year’s grantees, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust, said, “India’s biodiversity is far beyond its iconic wildlife. It includes thousands of lesser-known species and ecosystems that quietly sustain ecological balance and support millions of lives. Through The Habitats Trust Grants, we are proud to support the conservationists working tirelessly to protect this natural heritage. Their work not only strengthens biodiversity conservation today but also helps secure a healthier and more resilient future for generations to come.”   Rushikesh Chavan, Director, The Habitats Trust, said, “The quality and diversity of applications this year reflects the growing momentum of conservation efforts across India. From protecting overlooked species and restoring critical habitats to generating research that informs conservation action, these projects show how local knowledge, scientific expertise and community participation can come together to create meaningful and lasting impact.”   This year, The Habitats Trust received 117 applications from all across the country. Following a rigorous five-stage evaluation process, 27 projects were shortlisted for field evaluation, of which 10 finalists presented their proposals before an expert jury.   The jury comprised Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson, HCL Group and Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust; Dr. M. K. Ranjitsinh, wildlife expert and architect of India’s Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; Bahar Dutt, wildlife biologist and environmental journalist; and Brian Heath, Founder & CEO, Mara Conservancy, Kenya. Projects were evaluated on their conservation relevance, scientific rigour, feasibility, stakeholder engagement, scalability and long-term impact.   Since its inception in 2018, The Habitats Trust Grants has supported 38 conservation projects across 21 States and 5 Union Territories, disbursing more than Rs. 16.2 crore to strengthen grassroots conservation efforts across India. By investing in research, innovation and on-ground action, the programme continues to empower conservation practitioners working to protect the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and build resilient ecosystems for the future.   For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org/tht-research-grant.php   About The Habitats Trust Founded in 2018 by Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, and Shikhar Malhotra, CEO and Vice-Chairman of HCL Healthcare, The Habitats Trust (THT) is focused on addressing some of the most pressing developmental challenges arising from biodiversity loss, the climate crisis and global water scarcity. It is committed to undertake pioneering work that goes beyond sustainability and offers regenerative models for a thriving world. THT today works in 32 states and UTs of India with over 120 partners covering an area of over six lakh hectares. Over the last six years THT has made innovations for solving complex multidisciplinary challenges by using cutting-edge technology, ecological restoration, and species and habitats conservation.   For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org

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Galgotias University and Larsen & Toubro – L&T EduTech Launch Industry Integrated Specialisations for the 2026 Intake

Galgotias University and Larsen & Toubro – L&T EduTech have launched nine industry integrated specialisations for students joining engineering, computer science, information technology and BCA programmes in the 2026 intake.   In addition to the Industry Integrated Academic Programmes, L&T EduTech has established India’s 1st Advanced Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University The programmes follow a co-teaching model. Faculty from Galgotias University and professionals from L&T jointly shape the curriculum and deliver the courses, linking academic subjects to their application in industry. Each specialisation comprises eight industry-aligned courses worth a total of 24 credits. The engineering specialisations run across eight semesters and the BCA specialisation across six, with students undertaking an L&T-supported industry project every semester. Ms Febin M. F., Head of L&T EduTech, Larsen & Toubro said, “Industry participation is built into the academic structure of these specialisations. With eight courses and 24 credits distributed across the degree, students engage with L&T professionals through co-teaching, practical projects, technical sessions and site exposure. This gives learners repeated opportunities to apply academic concepts in professional settings.” Dr Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer of Galgotias University said, “Students entering engineering and technology programmes in 2026 will graduate into industries being reshaped by artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electric mobility, digital manufacturing and cyber security. Industry engagement must therefore be part of the curriculum, not an occasional intervention. Our collaboration with L&T EduTech integrates expert teaching, practical projects, industry exposure and professional credentials throughout the student’s degree.” Nine specialisations across engineering and technology Civil Engineering students will study Multimodal Transportation Infrastructure with AI/ML, and Mechanical Engineering students will study Digital Manufacturing Using Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Physical Systems. Students from Electronics and from Electronics and Communication Engineering will be offered Semiconductor Design Framework for Industrial ICs. An Advanced Specialisation in Electric Vehicles will be offered to students from Electrical and Electronics, Mechanical, Mechatronics and Aeronautical Engineering. Computer Science and Information Technology students can choose from four specialisations: AI Techniques and Machine Learning Algorithms, Applied Data Science with Python, Cyber Security, and Full-Stack Web Development. BCA students will be offered an industry-integrated specialisation in Agile and DevOps. The specialisations address developments across infrastructure, mobility, manufacturing, electronics and digital operations, and reflect the growing overlap among engineering disciplines: artificial intelligence is now applied in infrastructure and manufacturing, software and electronics are central to electric mobility, and data, cyber security and software development practices support organisations across sectors. Industry engagement in every semester Industry engagement extends across the full duration of each programme rather than being confined to a final-year project or internship. L&T experts will run training sessions and share knowledge drawn from live engineering and technology projects. Students will work on an industry project each semester, applying their learning as they progress. Core engineering students will take part in immersion visits to L&T sites, gaining direct exposure to how engineering, technology, safety, project management and execution come together in working environments. Computer Science and Information Technology students will gain access to L&T’s SOLVE platform for regular coding practice. All learners will also access the L&T Skill Exchange platform, which opens up internship and final placement opportunities. Competitions, expert interactions and recognition L&T will conduct hackathons and quizzes for participating students, who will also compete with peers from institutions across India. Top performers each semester will be recognised through certificates and rewards. Professionals from Larsen & Toubro Group businesses — including LTIMindtree, L&T Semiconductor Technologies and L&T Construction — will deliver guest lectures, introducing students to technical roles, projects and working environments across the group. Academic credits and industry credentials The industry-aligned courses form part of students’ academic curricula and credit requirements. Learners can earn eight to nine industry certifications over the course of their degree, along with globally recognised certificates and digital badges from Larsen & Toubro. The programmes build domain knowledge alongside the technical, behavioural and functional skills used in professional settings. Through their coursework and projects, students will interpret requirements, collaborate in teams, apply relevant technologies and tools, and present their solutions. A curriculum developed by industry and academia The collaboration follows a series of discussions between Galgotias University and L&T EduTech involving university leaders, faculty, academic departments and programme teams. The curriculum combines the academic strengths of Galgotias University faculty with the industry experience of L&T professionals, bringing university teaching, industry projects, technical training, site exposure and professional credentials into a single academic pathway. Students engage with industry practice from the start of their programmes and continue through successive semesters, building technical capability progressively while seeing how their knowledge is used professionally.

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Manipal University Jaipur Launches PCI-Approved B.Pharm. Programme, Admissions Open for 2026–27

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) has announced the launch of its Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm.) programme under the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences after receiving approval from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). Admissions for the inaugural 2026–27 academic session are now open for the aspiring students.   Manipal University Jaipur   The introduction of the B.Pharm. programme marks a significant milestone in the University’s continued expansion of quality professional education in the healthcare domain. Backed by the approval of the apex statutory body for pharmacy education in India, the programme is designed to prepare competent pharmacy professionals equipped with scientific knowledge, practical skills, research aptitude, and ethical values to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.   The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at MUJ offers state-of-the-art infrastructure to facilitate experiential learning and research. Students will have access to advanced laboratories, smart classrooms, seminar halls, modern research facilities and the University’s vibrant academic ecosystem. The programme is further strengthened by Manipal University Jaipur’s emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, industry engagement, and holistic student development.   Drawing upon the Manipal Group’s distinguished legacy of over 70 years in healthcare, education, and research, the programme aims to nurture future-ready professionals capable of contributing to the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare institutions, regulatory organizations, clinical research, academia, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum has been designed to blend strong theoretical foundations with laboratory training, industry exposure, and research-oriented learning to ensure graduates are prepared for emerging opportunities in the rapidly growing pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors.   The University believes that the new programme will provide aspiring students with an excellent platform to build successful careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality assurance, drug development, clinical research, hospital pharmacy, regulatory affairs, public health, and healthcare innovation.   Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, said, “The launch of the PCI-approved B.Pharm. programme is another important step in strengthening our commitment to excellence in healthcare education. With the Manipal legacy, world-class infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a research-driven learning environment, we are confident that our students will emerge as competent professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to society and the healthcare ecosystem.”   The University has invited aspiring students with an interest in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare, research, and innovation to apply for the programme. Admissions for the 2026–27 academic session are currently underway.   About Manipal University Jaipur Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities, renowned for academic excellence, innovation, research, and industry-oriented education. Established in 2011 as part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), MUJ has rapidly emerged as a preferred destination for higher education, offering a vibrant learning ecosystem that nurtures knowledge, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship.   Accredited with an A+ Grade by NAAC, MUJ offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programmes across Engineering, Management, Law, Design, Architecture, Commerce, Arts, Science, Humanities, Journalism, and Allied Health Sciences. The University places strong emphasis on experiential learning, interdisciplinary education, research excellence, innovation, and global engagement.   With a vibrant student community representing almost every state and union territory of India, along with several international students, MUJ promotes diversity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange. Through its commitment to quality education, impactful research, sustainability, and social responsibility, Manipal University Jaipur continues to empower future-ready professionals and responsible global citizens.   For more details, please visit the official website of Manipal University Jaipur: jaipur.manipal.edu

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MAHE and GHCL Limited Collaborate to Develop AI-Enabled Real-Time Fuel Quality Monitoring Solution

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GHCL Limited, one of India’s leading chemical companies, to develop a Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)-based solution for real-time monitoring of the Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of carbon-based fuels. Mr Sanjay Gupta, Vice President (Commercial) at GHCL, participated in the discussions with the MAHE team and exchanged the signed MoU with Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE.   MAHE and GHCL Limited exchanged an MoU to collaborate on developing a LIBS-based solution for real-time monitoring of the GCV of carbon-based fuels   The collaboration combines cutting-edge spectroscopy with artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver a rapid, on-site fuel quality assessment system. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between laboratory research and industrial applications by replacing conventional, time-intensive fuel-testing methods with a data-driven solution that enables proactive operational decision-making.   As one of India’s leading chemical manufacturing companies, GHCL relies extensively on carbon-based fuels for energy generation and process heating requirements. Recognising the critical role of fuel quality in operational efficiency and cost competitiveness, GHCL is working towards strengthening its fuel quality assurance through faster and more reliable real-time monitoring systems.   Carbon-based fuels account for a significant share of operational costs in energy-intensive industries. Conventional quality verification relies on laboratory analysis, often resulting in delays that limit timely corrective action. Through this partnership, GHCL Limited and MAHE, Manipal Institute of Applied Physics (MIAP), aim to develop an intelligent monitoring system capable of providing immediate insights into fuel quality at the point of receipt, thereby improving operational efficiency, enhancing quality assurance, and optimising fuel utilisation.   Speaking on the collaboration, Mr Mayuresh Hede, Operations Head, Sutrapada Plant, GHCL Limited, said, “This partnership reflects GHCL’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies that improve operational excellence and sustainability. By integrating real-time analytics into fuel quality management, we aim to strengthen process efficiency while reducing uncertainties associated with conventional testing methods. We believe this initiative has the potential to set new benchmarks for quality assurance in industrial operations.   Commenting on the collaboration, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “This project exemplifies how academic research can directly address complex industrial challenges. By combining LIBS technology with artificial intelligence and machine learning, we are developing an innovative solution with significant scientific and commercial potential. The collaboration also provides an excellent platform for translational research that can benefit multiple energy-intensive sectors.”   The project is being led on behalf of MAHE by Dr Unnikrishnan V. K. from the Manipal Institute of Applied Physics as the Principal Investigator, and Prof. Karunakar Kotegar, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology and Science, assured full support from MAHE. Also present during the event were Dr Sajan Daniel George, Director of Manipal Institute of Applied Physics and Dr Harishkumar, Director, Corporate Relations, MAHE   Additionally, the collaboration aims to generate intellectual property and develop scalable technology solutions with commercial potential. Upon successful implementation, the LIBS-based monitoring system could serve as a replicable model for industries that rely on carbon-based fuels, thereby strengthening the innovation ecosystem and demonstrating the value of industry-academia partnerships.   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) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.   About GHCL GHCL Limited is the largest manufacturer of soda ash at a single location in the country. Soda Ash (Anhydrous Sodium Carbonate) is a major raw material for the detergent & glass industries and Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda). It is an important raw material for solar glass and lithium batteries as well. The company has a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant of soda ash at Sutrapada, Gujarat with an installed production capacity of 1.2 million tons per annum. Sustainability is a core element of business strategy as defined by the ‘GHCL Way’ with its four pillars, i.e. Responsible Stewardship, Social Inclusiveness, promoting relationships and adding value. GHCL Limited remains committed to working closely with stakeholders for promoting the agenda of sustainability underpinning on the core values of Respect, Trust, Ownership and Integrated Teamwork.

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Building Trust in Tech: Ai+ Smartphone Commits Rs. 100 Crore to Enhance Security Through Community Participation

In a groundbreaking move for the Indian smartphone landscape, Ai+ Smartphone has launched Project Trust+, a bold initiative dedicated to creating the country’s safest smartphone ecosystem through long-term community engagement. The company is pledging Rs. 20 crore annually for the next five years, totaling Rs. 100 crore, to invite the tech and developer community to enhance security and foster trust within its devices.   Ai+ Smartphone commits Rs. 100 crore through Project Trust+ to enhance security through community participation Through the initiative, the company is inviting independent researchers to actively test its systems, challenge its security architecture and highlight vulnerabilities that can be addressed before they impact consumers.  Project Trust+ is driven by the belief that security is an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. As digital landscapes become more interconnected, Ai+ emphasizes that building secure smartphones requires collaboration, transparency, and active participation from the community. This initiative aims to go beyond traditional bug bounty programs, fostering an open environment where developers, security researchers, and ethical hackers can collectively contribute to the safety and resilience of Ai+ products. Commenting on the announcement, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “Most companies tell users their devices are secure. We want to prove it. The reality is that no smartphone, no platform, and no technology ecosystem can claim security as a finished destination. It evolves every day. Project Trust+ reflects our belief that trust should be built transparently and collaboratively. We are opening our doors to India’s technology community because we believe the safest products are built not in isolation, but together.” The initiative further strengthens Ai+’s broader philosophy around transparency, privacy, and user ownership, values that also sit at the centre of NxtQuantum OS, the company’s sovereign mobile operating system initiative. With Project Trust+, Ai+ Smartphone aims to shift the conversation around smartphone security from claims and promises to continuous improvement and public accountability. Because when it comes to trust, the work is never complete. To apply for the programme, visit the link in bio on Madhav’s IG handle Project Trust+ Because Trust Is Built Together. About Ai+ Smartphone Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience. From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology. About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.  

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Sentosa GrillFest 2026 Returns with its Largest Line-Up Yet: 42 Food Vendors, First-Ever Omakase-Inspired Beachfront Dining and Returning Crowd Favourites

Debut of Chef’s Grill, an air-conditioned omakase-inspired eight-course dining experience co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association Longstanding fan favourites Craft’ B, Slurp Your Oysters, Jett BBQ and DAMN return alongside 18 new vendors across five zones Marketplace by Indoguna and Sunset Lounge by Asahi introduces premium grilling, golden hour gatherings and new ways to experience the beachfront Beach-front seating and increased sheltered capacity, new ways to settle in and enjoy the festival by the sea First-ever use of solar energy to power the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting   Sentosa GrillFest, Singapore’s favourite beachfront cookout supported by Singapore Tourism Board, returns to Siloso Beach for its ninth edition from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Since its debut in 2017, the festival has welcomed close to 800,000 visitors, and this year’s edition is its most ambitious yet. Featuring 42 vendors across five zones, including 18 new names and a host of returning crowd favourites, guests can look forward to bold new flavours, an elevated beachfront atmosphere, and first-ever dining concepts co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association, all in a festival that welcomes guests of every kind, pets included. From the crackle of open flames and the aroma of food fresh off the grill to the anticipation of the first bite by the sea, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 is designed to be a gastronomic feast for all senses.   Sentosa GrillFest 2026   Omakase-Inspired Chef’s Grill Making its debut this year is Chef’s Grill, Sentosa GrillFest’s first-ever eight-course omakase-inspired style beachfront dining experience, created in collaboration with the Singapore Chefs’ Association (SCA). Held in an air-conditioned tent with premium chinaware, the format gives diners a close look at live-fire techniques from a curated roster of Singapore chefs. Three mainstay vendors — Sentosa Golf Club, R&B Grill Bar and ASAP & CO — anchor the experience across all four weekends, while a rotating guest vendor slot brings fresh faces to the menu each week, giving guests a new reason to return every weekend. Chef’s Grill also serves as the closing platform for the inaugural Singapore Chef Festival, organised in partnership with the SCA, marking Sentosa GrillFest’s growing role in Singapore’s culinary calendar. For Chef’s Grill menu and pricing details, refer to www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest. Marketplace by Indoguna Returning in an elevated format this year is Marketplace, developed in collaboration with Indoguna, a leading premium food importer and distributor in Singapore. This year’s edition places a sharper focus on local sourcing and sustainable produce, with a curated selection of ingredients that champions responsible food choices without compromising on quality. Drawing the eyes of all who enter is a central chiller display, where guests can browse and select fresh meats, seafood, vegetables and gourmet items, before watching them cooked-to-order across themed grill and serve stalls. Prepare to be entranced by the theatre of live-fire cooking through grilling, smoking and searing front and centre. A retail section carries artisanal products, sauces, spices and ready-to-cook selections for guests who want to take part of the Sentosa GrillFest experience home. And for those looking to capture the memories, the aura-reading photobooth is the perfect spot to snap share-worthy moments with friends. Sunset Lounge by Asahi As the sun dips below the horizon, the Sunset Lounge by Asahi, sets the scene for golden hour gatherings by the sea. Guests can ease into the evening at this dedicated beachfront bar experience, where the pace slows and the views take centre stage. The lounge is positioned as a standalone wind-down spot between the afternoon and evening sessions with DJ programming, live band performances. For details on programming, refer to www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest. Vendor Line-up for Every Palate Beyond the new concepts, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 brings back three beloved zones: Local Grills, International Grills and Beachside Grills. Local Grills returns with homegrown crowd favourites Slurp Your Oysters and Craft’ B, both longstanding fixtures of Sentosa GrillFest who have grown alongside the festival. Craft’ B, known for their Netflix-featured grass-fed ribeye, returns alongside Slurp Your Oysters, serving freshly shucked oysters sourced directly from Murotsu Bay in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Also back is DAMN, winner of Sentosa GrillFest’s People’s Choice Award in 2025, bringing their signature dry-aged meats. International Grills takes guests on a culinary journey across the globe, from Korean BBQ at Hanok Kimchi, to the bold smoky flavours of BBQ Box. Joining them this year are new entrants Umi Matsuri, bringing the Japanese art of robatayaki grilling to the beachfront, and 8 Degree Taiwanese Bistro, serving up the iconic Taiwanese night market classic (Taiwan sausage with sticky rice). Perched along the waterfront, Beachside Grills serves up open-flame cooking against the backdrop of Siloso Beach. New this year includes vendors such as ChillBro rounding off the meal on a sweet note with grilled banana topped with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sauce. Returning favourites include Jett BBQ, beloved for their show-stopping dinosaur ribs, and Smok Hous, known for its Texas-style barbecue. Aside from the food, festivalgoers can look forward to live entertainment throughout the festival. Kicking off the first Sunday on 26 July, ZIP4, a Korean jazz band, will take to the stage at 7pm in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore. The full list of participating vendors can be found here: www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest. Sustainability and Accessibility This year’s edition marks a significant step forward in the festival’s sustainability journey. For the first time, the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting will be powered by battery and solar energy, reducing the festival’s reliance on conventional power sources and reducing carbon footprint. Continuing commitments include the reduction of single-use disposables across the festival grounds, with all vendors required to use compostable packaging and cutlery in line with Sentosa’s Disposables Policy. On accessibility, Sentosa GrillFest continues to provide dedicated beach tracks for wheelchair users and families with strollers, with priority seating available for guests with mobility needs throughout the festival grounds. Event details – Sentosa GrillFest 2026 Time: 4.00pm to 10.30pm Venue: Siloso Beachfront Dates: Thu 23, Fri 24, Sat 25, Sun 26 July; Fri 31 July, Sat 1, Sun 2 August; Fri 7, Sat 8,

Sentosa GrillFest 2026 Returns with its Largest Line-Up Yet: 42 Food Vendors, First-Ever Omakase-Inspired Beachfront Dining and Returning Crowd Favourites Read More »

Nykaa Best in Beauty 2026 Honours India's Most Loved Beauty Products and Brands

Every swipe, every review and every vote tells the story of how India shops beauty today. The third edition of the Nykaa Best in Beauty (NBiB) Awards brings that story to life, distilling the choices, aspirations and evolving preferences of millions of beauty consumers into India’s definitive beauty benchmark. More than an annual awards programme, NBiB has grown into one of India’s largest consumer-led beauty awards, offering a definitive pulse on what India is buying, loving and trusting.   Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards 2026   With over 3.2 million votes cast across 60 award categories and 316 nominees spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, wellness, personal care, bath & body, gifting, and beauty tools, this year’s edition showcased the remarkable breadth and diversity of India’s beauty landscape. The final winners were determined through a combination of consumer participation and evaluation by an esteemed jury, creating a benchmark where consumer conviction meets industry expertise.   Catch all the winners here: Winners   This year’s winners paint a compelling picture of a beauty industry being reshaped by increasingly informed, ingredient-conscious and globally connected consumers. Performance-backed efficacy is redefining purchase decisions, prestige beauty continues its upward trajectory, and homegrown innovators are earning their place alongside global icons. From Best Homegrown Beauty Brand and Cult Classic to Iconic New Launch of the Year, New & Now, and Brand Campaign of the Year, this year’s honours reflect the ideas, innovations and cultural moments that resonated most with India’s beauty consumers.   The panel featured Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty; Nykaa’s brand icon Sharvari; make-up & hair artist- Elton Fernandez; make-up artist, educator and founder of Mokae Beauty-Sandhya Shekhar; hair expert- Hiral Bhatia; dermatologist- Dr. Aanchal Panth (MBBS, MD); founder of NAKED Coffee and luxury content creator- Radhika Seth; creator- Ankush Bahuguna; beauty creator- Tarini Peshawaria; and Nandini Bhalla, Editor at The Word Magazine.   NBiB 2026 Jury   Commenting on the awards, Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, “The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have evolved into more than an annual celebration of product excellence. It reflects the changing aspirations of India’s beauty consumers and the innovations redefining the industry. This year’s winners show that consumers are rewarding efficacy, authenticity and innovation in equal measure, while homegrown and global brands continue to raise the bar together. We’re proud that NBIB has become a platform where millions of consumers and industry experts collectively define the benchmark for beauty excellence in India.”   What the winners reveal about the next wave in Indian beauty: Efficacy is the new beauty standard: Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Concealer, Sky High Mascara, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser prove consumers are choosing products that consistently deliver results over fleeting trends. K-Beauty continues to dominate: Korean beauty brands emerged as standout winners across multiple categories, with Beauty of Joseon, LANEIGE, COSRX, TIRTIR, and Dr. Althea taking home multiple awards, reinforcing K-Beauty’s growing influence across both skincare and makeup. Healthy skin leads every routine: Barrier-care favourites from CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, TONYMOLY, and Dot & Key reflect the growing focus on ingredient-led, skin-first beauty. Homegrown brands are rewriting the rules of beauty: Kay beauty, Maison Moi, Foxtale, WishCare, and indē wild continue to win alongside global beauty icons, showcasing the strength of Indian innovation. Hybrid beauty is redefining makeup: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation, Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer, NYX, and e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter highlight the growing demand for makeup that works like skincare. Luxury beauty is becoming increasingly mainstream: From Charlotte Tilbury and NARS to Yves Saint Laurent, Estée Lauder, CHANEL, Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Dyson, and Jo Malone London, consumers are increasingly investing in premium beauty experiences.   Discover the complete list of winners on nykaa.com, from breakthrough launches and cult favourites to timeless icons, and shop the products that have earned India’s highest vote of confidence.   With a community of over 60 million consumers, a curated assortment spanning 4,000+ brands and 3 lakh+ products, Nykaa continues to shape how India discovers, experiences and shops beauty. The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have become an annual barometer of India’s beauty evolution, capturing not only the products that are loved by consumers, but the ideas and innovations that will define tomorrow.   Explore the full list of winning products and celebrate your favourites and discover some new ones! All award-winning products are available for purchase on Nykaa.com, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the best in beauty as recognized by the most discerning judges & beauty aficionados themselves!   Sub-category Product MAKEUP Blush Nykaa Cosmetics Whipped Blush Pot Blush (Luxury) Pixi By Petra On The Glow Blush Ruby Concealer Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer Eyeliner Lakmē 9 to 5 Eyeconic Liquid Eyeliner – Intense Black Eyeshadow Kay Beauty Eyeshadow Palette Foundation L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation Foundation (Luxury) NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation Foundation (Luxury) Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation Highlighter e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter Kajal Renee Cosmetics Midnight Kohl Kajal Lip Gloss Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Candy Glaze Lip Tint Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Tint Lip Tint ETUDE Dear Darling Water Gel Lip and Cheek Tint Lipstick Lipstick Kay Beauty Hydra Creme Lipstick Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick (Luxury) M.A.C MACximal Mini Matte Lipstick Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick (Luxury) Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution – Pillow Talk Medium Liquid Lipstick Maybelline New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick Mascara Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara Nail Polish Nykaa Cosmetics Creme Nail Enamel Primer e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer Compact & Loose Powder Kay Beauty Setting Loose Powder Compact & Loose Powder (Luxury) Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish – Medium Setting Spray L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray Skin Tint & Tinted Moisturizer Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow All-In-One Tinted Moisturizer Makeup (Trending) TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Mini Cushion Foundation Makeup (Trending) NYX Professional Makeup Lip I.V. Gloss Stain SKINCARE Ageless Beauty Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Youth Power Creme Moisturizer Eye Cream Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Face

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BlueRose Technologies Unveils "Diamond": The Next-Generation Smart Delivery System for High-Stakes Document Logistics

Bengaluru-based BlueRose Technologies Pvt. Ltd. today unveiled “Diamond,” a next-generation, patent-pending Secure Delivery and Custody System engineered to protect the world’s most sensitive physical information and assets in transit. Named for the hardest and most precious of materials, Diamond is built on an uncompromising promise: from the moment physical materials are sealed inside until the instant they are lawfully accessed, no unauthorized person can breach them, and any attempt to interfere is detected instantly and proven beyond doubt.   Vineet Jain, CEO, BlueRose Technologies   “Every breach in physical custody shares the same root cause—somewhere along the chain, someone gained unauthorized access without immediate detection,” said Vineet Jain, CEO of BlueRose Technologies. “Diamond makes undetected intrusion impossible. It doesn’t just lock high-stakes consignments away; it actively stands guard, enforces multi-factor custody protocols, and reports anomalies in real time. That is the level of assurance secure physical logistics has always required.”   The Core Problem: The Silent Threat in Physical Transport For governments, legal institutions, financial organizations, and regulatory bodies, transporting confidential paper documents and high-value materials remains a critical vulnerability. Traditional chain-of-custody protocols rely heavily on manual processes, padlocks, paper trails, and basic physical seals – leaving a dangerous blind spot where quiet, undetected access or copying can occur during transit. Diamond replaces these passive security measures with an intelligent, active ecosystem that automatically enforces strict rules of custody.   How Diamond Guarantees Secure Physical Delivery Geo-Fenced Locking: Each Diamond unit is programmed with the exact geographic coordinates where it is permitted to unlock. Transported anywhere else, the unit remains immutably sealed, ensuring contents are released exclusively within authorized target locations. Time-Locked Custody: Every unit operates on a precise temporal window. Materials cannot be accessed before the scheduled time, eliminating early-access exposure, and automated tracking flags any failure to open on schedule. Dual-Control Access Control: Unlocking a Diamond container requires two authorized officials acting in tandem, each utilizing cryptographic credentials linked to their personal registered devices. This multi-factor principle eliminates single-point insider threats. Continuous Fleet & Journey Monitoring: From dispatch to final arrival, each unit streams status updates to confirm its location, structural integrity, and route alignment. Every step of the journey is logged for complete end-to-end traceability. Tamper-Proof Hardware Architecture: Should an intruder attempt to force, breach, or interfere with a unit, Diamond permanently records the event in its onboard memory and triggers an immediate alert—even if power or communications are disrupted. When the container arrives, stakeholders know with complete legal certainty whether the seal held unbroken.   Powered by Advanced Security Technologies Diamond brings together an enterprise-grade convergence of hardware, software, satellite positioning, real-time fleet telematics, and tamper-evident sensor systems into a single, field-ready platform.   Built with a multi-layered defense architecture, defeating any single safeguard leaves an intruder facing additional security controls and ensures a permanent digital audit trail. The innovations underlying Diamond rely on patent-pending technology, establishing a new standard for physical information security and verifiable custody.   Universal Applications Across High-Stakes Industries While designed to safeguard the transport of confidential paper records, Diamond’s architecture is purpose-built for any scenario where chain of custody, exact timing, and absolute trust are non-negotiable: Education & Academics: Examination materials, standardized test papers, and confidential university certification evaluations. Legal & Financial: Classified court filings, sensitive merger-and-acquisition documentation, and confidential contracts. Government & Defence: Classified communications, sensitive policy documents, and secure physical keys/credentials. High-Value Assets: Regulated materials, high-worth commodities, and sensitive physical media.   Wherever institutions need to answer “Who opened this, where, and when—and can it be proven?” Diamond provides an undeniable answer.   Availability Diamond is available now for enterprise, institutional, and government partners. To arrange a briefing or a live demonstration, contact BlueRose Technologies via the details below.   BlueRose Technologies Pvt. Ltd.: Ria Jain | email: ria.jain@bluerose-tech.com | Phone: +91 6364 247273   About BlueRose Technologies BlueRose Technologies is a global technology partner for enterprises and governments. We build AI-native applications and agentic systems, deliver and modernize mission-critical enterprise platforms, engineer security end-to-end, and provide purpose-built AI infrastructure and storage—backed by our own AI products. Active across 25+ countries. For more information, please visit www.bluerose-tech.com.

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