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Threads and Craft Unveils 'Ananta Kriti', a New Platform for Handcrafted Fashion, Artisans and Independent Labels

Threads and Craft, the homegrown label founded by Lakshmi K, is set to present Ananta Kriti, its grandest showcase till date, from August 26-28 at Aga Khan Hall, New Delhi. Conceived as a celebration of handcrafted textiles, thoughtful design and India’s enduring weaving traditions, the three-day event brings together clothing, accessories and handcrafted products under one roof.   Beyond being just another holiday shopping destination, Ananta Kriti has built a platform that tries to bring together artisans and buyers through narratives about craft, fabric and design. This first edition has been organised keeping in mind Raksha Bandhan, allowing attendees to explore the fashion and festive items created by Indian labels and designers.   Ananta Kriti’s range will feature ethnic and contemporary womenswear, children’s wear, handloom sarees, Indo-Western designs, unstitched and semi-stitched wear made from fabrics like cotton, cotton-silk, ikat, kalamkari and hand block prints.   True to the philosophy of the label, much of the fabric used has been directly sourced from weaving clusters of India, in alignment with Lakshmi’s passion for natural and regional textiles and crafts.   “Ananta Kriti was envisioned as a platform where one would find the story of the products that have been created with love and care. For me, every textile has a story, every creation tells you about its maker. The intention was to take the idea of Ananta Kriti to various cities and create a platform that would bring together artisans and connoisseurs of their creations,” says Lakshmi K, Founder, Threads and Craft. Ananta Kriti’s Delhi-based event is the first of an ongoing series that will visit various Indian cities in the future to provide the artisans and the hand-crafted business a platform to exhibit their work.   The show will be open to visitors from 10:00 am to 07:00 pm and will showcase a specially curated selection of clothing, jewellery, accessories, and other handcrafted items from participating labels.   Event Details Event: Ananta Kriti by Threads and Craft Dates: 26-28 August Venue: Aga Khan Hall, New Delhi Timings: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Entry: Free ​ For more information, please contact – 9217391347

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Vibe Drive Unveils One of Chennai's First Fully Integrated Automotive Destination

Vibe Drive has launched a first-of-its-kind integrated automotive facility on Chennai’s 200 Feet Radial Road, Kovilambakkam, bringing together vehicle sales, servicing, detailing and customer hospitality under one roof.   Vibe Drive – One of Chennai’s First Fully Integrated Automotive Destination   The facility was inaugurated yesterday by J. C. D. Prabhakar, Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, marking the launch of a new integrated automotive destination for customers in Chennai. Spread across 13,000 sq. ft., the facility combines four specialist brands: Vibe Drive, HB Multibrand, Slick Lab by Vibe Drive, and Snack & Rack, creating a seamless experience for vehicle owners from purchase to long-term care. The venture is founded by automobile entrepreneurs Ashvath Jacinth and Naveen Antony, whose complementary journeys shaped the vision behind the project. Ashvath Jacinth brings experience across automotive manufacturing, vehicle sales and entrepreneurship. Through Vibe Drive, he has built a business focused on transparent buying, selling, sourcing and evaluation of pre-owned vehicles across every segment. Naveen Antony, an electronics engineer by training, entered the automotive industry after successfully restoring his own flood-damaged car when others declared it beyond repair. He went on to establish HB Multibrand, earning a reputation for advanced diagnostics, ECU programming, electrical troubleshooting and restoration of complex vehicles. Despite setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, he rebuilt the business with renewed determination. Together, the founders have created an automotive destination that caters to everything from routine maintenance and major mechanical repairs to premium detailing, ceramic coatings, paint protection films, performance upgrades and body repairs. Customers can also relax at Snack & Rack, an in-house lounge featuring refreshments, high-speed Wi-Fi and English pool tables while their vehicles are serviced. The facility caters to all categories of vehicles, from everyday hatchbacks and family SUVs to commercial vehicles, luxury marques and high-performance automobiles. “Our vision was to build more than a workshop. We wanted to create a destination built on trust, technical expertise and a genuine passion for automobiles, where every customer receives the same level of care regardless of the vehicle they own,” said Ashvath Jacinth, Founder and Partner, Vibe Drive.   Vibe Drive 200 Feet Radial Road, Kovilambakkam, Chennai Contact: Ashvath Jacinth – Founder and Partner – +91 96772 77775

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Bisleri's Bottles for Change Facilitates a Waste Collection Drive During Pune Wari Pilgrimage 2026

Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading packaged drinking water company, under its flagship sustainability initiative Bottles for Change, implemented a plastic waste management and awareness campaign during the Pune Wari, one of Maharashtra’s largest and most respected annual religious pilgrimages. Part of a three-year waste management and awareness partnership with the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), the initiative promoted responsible plastic waste management through citizen awareness, community participation, clean-up drives, and recycling interventions.   Bisleri’s Bottles for Change volunteers assemble for waste collection during the Pune Wari Pilgrimage, 2026   The campaign reached over two lakh devotees across key locations within the PCMC jurisdiction, including Akurdi, Pimpri, Dapodi and other stretches along the Wari route. Through on-ground information, education and communication (IEC) activities, volunteers encouraged devotees to adopt responsible waste-disposal practices, segregate plastic waste at source, and understand the importance of recycling. Around 300 volunteers participated in cleaning a 15 km stretch during the three-day campaign, helping collect approximately 6 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic waste, all of which will be channelled for recycling, supporting the circular economy. The initiative helped create a cleaner and safer pilgrimage experience for an estimated 2 lakh + devotees.   Bottles for Change volunteers collected 6 MT of plastic waste for recycling during the 3-day pilgrimage   Commenting on the initiative, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., said, “The Wari is not only a celebration of faith but also an opportunity to inspire collective action towards environmental responsibility. Through Bottles for Change, we continue to work with local authorities, volunteers and citizens to demonstrate that large public gatherings can successfully adopt responsible plastic waste management practices. Our focus is on creating long-term behavioural change while ensuring that recyclable plastic is brought back into the circular economy.”   Hon’ble Shri Ravi Babasaheb Landge, Mayor, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, said, “The ‘Nirmal Wari, Swachh Wari’ initiative which conveys the message of cleanliness through action amidst the sacred atmosphere of Jagadguru Santshreshtha Tukaram Maharaj’s Palkhi procession is highly commendable. The efforts undertaken by Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. and 300 volunteers will certainly help keep the city of Pimpri-Chinchwad clean. Cleanliness is a collective responsibility, and such social initiatives will foster greater awareness among citizens regarding the conservation of Mother Earth.”   The Pune Wari campaign builds on Bisleri’s long-term commitment to strengthening plastic circularity in Maharashtra. Under its association with PCMC, Bottles for Change has collected and sent over 310 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic waste for recycling between April 2024 and June 2026. The initiative has also sensitised more than 40,000 citizens on responsible plastic waste management and installed 25 Benches of Dreams across the city.   Bisleri’s Bottles for Change initiative has reached over 12.4 lakh citizens through awareness programmes and enabled the collection and recycling of 13,905 MT of plastic waste through its CSR initiatives across Maharashtra. The Pune Wari campaign reinforces Bisleri’s commitment to make responsible recycling and plastic circularity a community-led movement.   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.   Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.   The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.   For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

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Total Cost of Ownership: The New Maths of Car Ownership in India

Indians love doing the maths before making a big purchase. Before buying a car, we compare prices, watch countless reviews and ask everyone from our friends to our neighbourhood car expert if we’re making the right choice.   The VinFast VF 6 shows why Total Cost of Ownership matters more than ever for Indian buyers As if that wasn’t enough, there’s now another number being discussed: Total Cost of Ownership, or TCO. But for good reason. After all, the biggest expenses don’t always arrive on delivery day. It’s what your car asks of you over the next five or seven years that often makes the biggest difference. For India’s growing community of EV buyers, that conversation is becoming even more important. Lower running costs may be what gets people interested in electric vehicles, but what keeps them happy is everything that comes after. And that’s where the VinFast VF 6 makes its strongest case: over five years, buyers could save nearly 87% on their energy costs alone. Here’s how the numbers add up. The Cost Saving You See  Using a VinFast standard EMI calculator model with 80% to 85% loan funding at an average interest rate of 8.5% to 9.5% over five years, buyers can expect monthly EMIs of approximately INR 29,500 to INR 31,000 for the base VF 6 Earth variant. The estimated upfront down payment ranges between INR 250,000 and INR 300,000, while VinFast dealerships also offer flexible financing solutions, including longer loan tenures and zero down payment schemes for eligible customers. But monthly ownership costs don’t stop with the EMI. For most Indian families, fuel remains one of the biggest recurring expenses of owning a car. Assuming a monthly driving distance of 1,500 km, a midsize petrol SUV delivering 12 km per litre at a fuel price of INR 102 per litre would cost approximately INR 12,750 every month in fuel expenses. Over five years and 90,000 km of driving, that adds up to nearly INR 765,000. Now let’s look at the VinFast VF 6. With an efficiency of approximately 16 kWh per 100 km, covering the same 1,500 km requires around 242 kWh of electricity. At typical home charging rates, that translates to an estimated monthly charging cost of just INR 1,694 and approximately INR 101,640 over five years. The difference? More than INR 660,000 in energy cost savings over five years. It’s enough to pay for a lot of family road trips, or if we’re being honest, quite a few weekend biryanis too.  And that’s before considering VinFast’s complimentary charging programme at V Green charging stations until 31 March 2029 and EV transition support of up to INR 154,000 for eligible customers switching from an ICE vehicle. The Costs You Stop Thinking About There are some ownership costs that never appear on your monthly bank statement, but you’ll certainly notice them when they’re gone. Case in point—maintenance. Conventional petrol vehicles require routine engine oil changes, spark plug replacements, fuel filter swaps and more complex powertrain servicing over time. Electric vehicles do away with much of that. Routine annual service costs for the VF 6 are estimated at approximately INR 3,500 to INR 5,000, covering items such as cabin air filter replacements, brake fluid top ups, wheel alignment and software diagnostics. Regenerative braking also reduces wear on mechanical brakes, helping extend brake pad life to more than 80,000 km. VinFast further strengthens the ownership proposition with complimentary maintenance for three years or 36,000 km, whichever comes first, alongside a seven year or 160,000 km vehicle warranty and a ten year or 200,000 km battery warranty. After all of that, there’s something buyers rarely put a price on before purchasing an EV: peace of mind. One Indian VF 6 owner recently reflected on his ownership experience after driving more than 8,000 km. Interestingly, he admitted that he was more anxious about range and public charging before buying the car than after.   Home charging proved sufficient for most of his needs, while the vehicle returned an overall efficiency of 14.8 kWh per 100 km over more than 4,000 km of driving. And what stood out most was how quickly charging became part of his routine and how little he found himself thinking about it. His verdict? The VF 6 was “light on the pocket to run”1.

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HDFC Life's AUM Crosses Rs. Four Lakh Crore Milestone

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurance companies, announced that its Assets Under Management (AUM) recently crossed the Rs. Four Lakh Crore milestone. The milestone is a strong reflection of the Company’s focus on enabling policyholders meet their financial goals, by strictly adhering to a prudent and disciplined approach to fund management.   Over the last 25 years, HDFC Life has systematically built trust amongst its customers by offering them innovative and simple products designed to fulfill their long-term financial goals. The Company continues to enhance its customers’ experience by offering several tech-enabled services, relevant and specific touch points, and consistent delivery on several key business metrics – all enabling the Company build and sustain trust amongst its policyholders.   Prasun Gajri, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, HDFC Life   Commenting on the key milestone of the Company, Prasun Gajri, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, HDFC Life, said, “At HDFC Life, our philosophy of protecting India with pride guides every aspect of our business. It’s at the core of our product design, our service architecture, and, most importantly, the way we manage our policyholders’ investments. Crossing Rs. Four Lakh Crore in AUM and being able to double the AUM within four years is a reflection of this philosophy. Our focus remains on disciplined investment practices and strategic asset allocation, which has enabled us to deliver sustainable, risk-adjusted returns while safeguarding policyholder interests.”   AUM is an important indicator of an insurer’s scale, financial strength and investment management capabilities and customer loyalty over the long-term. HDFC Life’s steady AUM growth has been underpinned by its diversified portfolio of products covering a wide range of life insurance solutions that focus on protection, savings and investment, designed to address the evolving financial needs of individuals across every stage of life.   The Company’s current debt-equity ratio is 72:28. A high proportion of its debt investments are in Government bonds and AAA-rated securities, underscoring its focus on capital preservation and risk-adjusted returns.   Alongside the AUM growth, HDFC Life has maintained a high claim-settlement ratio (99.7% in FY’26*), which reflects the Company’s continued focus on customer centricity and sustained excellence.    *Claim Settlement Ratio for individual death claims in FY’26.

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Bisleri International and NBT India Launch a Multilingual Comic Book at the Chinar Book Festival, 2026

Titled “Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission”, the comic book inspires children to be environmentally responsible 20,000 English and Urdu copies of the comic book were distributed across Jammu & Kashmir   Bisleri International, in collaboration with the National Book Trust (NBT), Ministry of Education, Government of India officially launched the comic book “Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission“ at the Chinar Book Festival 2026 held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. The launch is part of Bottles for Change, Bisleri International’s flagship initiative for plastic-waste recycling and responsible waste management. Available in 48 languages, including all 22 scheduled Indian languages, the comic book aims to inspire environmental responsibility among children. As part of the launch, 20,000 English and Urdu copies of the book were distributed in schools across the state.   Bisleri and NBT Launch Multilingual Children’s Comic Book on Plastic Waste Management at the Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar   The event was graced by Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convenor, Chinar Book Festival 2026; Shri Waseem Raja, JKAS, Joint Director, Tourism Department, J&K; Shri Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, MLA – Gulmarg, J&K; Shri Mr. Anshul Garg, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Smt. Shobha Kapoor, Senior Lead – Partnerships & Communications along with Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International.   On the occasion, Dr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. said, “At Bisleri, we believe that creating a more sustainable future begins with inspiring the next generation. Through our collaboration with the National Book Trust under our ‘Bisleri Greener Promise’ initiative, we are using the power of storytelling to make environmental responsibility engaging, relatable, and accessible for children across India. We hope ‘Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission’ inspires young readers to embrace simple, everyday actions that can make a meaningful difference for the planet.”   Mr. Yuvraj Malik, Director, National Book Trust, India, said, “Comic books are a powerful tool to engage young readers. Chhota Bheem & Vidya – Big Green Mission uses popular, relatable characters to encourage children to adopt simple, sustainable habits and understand how everyday actions make a difference. Our continued association with Bisleri International educates and inspires young minds with an aim to nurture a generation of informed and responsible citizens.”   Dr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri with Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convener, Chinar Book Festival 2026   To encourage children to embrace reading, physical activity and environmental responsibility, a 5K Reading Marathon, “Together We Read, Together We Lead” was held on 25 July 2026 along Dal Lake. The Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha flagged off the marathon. Organized as part of the week-long Chinar Book Festival, the marathon brought together thousands of school children from across Jammu & Kashmir. The event attempted to set a record in the India Book of Records (IBR) and Asia Book of Records (ABR) in the category “Maximum Children Participating in a Marathon to Promote Reading and Environment.”   The festival also featured a Bottles for Change sustainability stall showcasing products made from recycled plastic. Through interactive exhibits, visitors, including young students learnt how used plastic is collected, recycled and transformed into useful everyday products contributing to a circular economy.   Together, the comic book launch, Reading Marathon and the stall combined active participation and practical learning to encourage children and communities to adopt more environmentally responsible habits. The event marked a significant step for Bisleri’s Bottles for Change initiative as it continues to drive awareness around responsible plastic waste management and sustainable living.   In partnership with the National Book Trust, the initiative demonstrated how storytelling and education can inspire positive action and empower children to become changemakers for a greener future.   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.   Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.   The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

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Roca Expands the Ohtake Collection: A Celebration of Organic Design and Artistic Legacy

Roca, the global leader in bathroom solutions, announces the Indian launch of an expanded Ohtake Collection, now enriched with new basin designs by architect and designer Rodrigo Ohtake. Building on the original collection conceived by the late, legendary Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake, the expanded range brings a renewed vision of organic form, artistic sensibility, and material excellence to the contemporary bathroom.   Ohtake Collection Roca   A Legacy Rooted in Nature The Ohtake Collection was born from the organic shapes that define the Brazilian landscape. For Ruy Ohtake, nature was not merely a reference — it was a vocabulary. Curving surfaces, round shapes, and undulating edges became the defining language of a designer whose ambition was always to awaken the senses and create a connection that transcended utilitarian function.   In developing the original collection, Ruy found an unexpected source of inspiration in the egg – admiring its exceptional structural rigidity achieved through the most delicate of forms. Drawing a parallel between the lightness of an eggshell and Roca’s proprietary Fineceramic® material, he harnessed cutting-edge technology to achieve the ultra-thin borders that give the collection its sculptural character.   The resulting pieces — with their sensual, undulating edges and outlines — evoke a walk along the shoreline rather than a conventional basin. As Ruy himself said: “A good piece of Architecture, of design, must have an element of unpredictability, of emotion.”   That first collection went on to receive the prestigious Red Dot Design Award 2019, recognised for the way it fuses technology, functionality, and aesthetics in a symbiotic way.   Rodrigo Ohtake: Continuing the Family Dialogue Since the passing of Ruy Ohtake in November 2021, his son Rodrigo Ohtake has led the OHTAKE office, a multidisciplinary studio spanning architecture, design, urbanism, and material innovation. For Rodrigo, the Brazilian landscape — its colours, forms, and atmosphere — remains a constant presence in his creative process. “Living with Art and Nature makes life gentler, softer,” he observes.   Growing up amid his father’s prolific architectural practice and the celebrated abstract works of his grandmother, pioneering Asian-Brazilian artist Tomie Ohtake, art and design are second nature for Rodrigo. His contribution to the Ohtake Collection for Roca reflects this layered inheritance — contemporary in sensibility, yet deeply rooted in a family tradition of transformative design.   New Basins: The Calla Lily and the Art of the Hand For his debut contribution to the Ohtake Collection, Rodrigo sought to create designs that invite engagement. Taking Ruy’s celebrated curves as a starting point, he opened and softened the forms, extending the basin’s silhouette as if a cupped hand reaching to collect water.   The poetic inspiration for the two new over-countertop basins is the calla lily flower — its delicate, unfurling form translated into refined ceramic geometry. Rodrigo developed the designs through a hands-on process, sculpting miniature dough maquettes to find the ideal proportions, a creative method not unlike the artistic practice of his grandmother Tomie.   The new basins are available in three finishes: White, Matt Black, and a new Terracotta — an earthy, warm tone that evokes the ochre soils and sun-baked clay of the Brazilian interior. Rodrigo’s new designs were recognised for their originality with the “Best in Show” award at the 2023 Expo Revestir, the annual design event in São Paulo.   Fineceramic®: The Material of Sculptural Possibility All Ohtake basins are crafted from Roca’s proprietary Fineceramic® — an advanced ceramic material that enables the ultra-thin walls and precisely tapered edges central to the collection’s sculptural identity. Fineceramic® delivers exceptional durability, scratch resistance, and a refined surface quality that ensures each piece retains its elegance through years of daily use.   Product Overview The expanded Ohtake Collection is available in India and includes: Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, 625 × 385 mm (RS327A1P..0) – Available in White, Stone, Matt Black, and Terracotta. Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, 550 × 385 mm (RS327A13..0) – A refined mid-size option. Available in White, Beige, and Matt Black. Over-countertop Fineceramic® Basin, Ø380 mm (RS327A15..0) – Available in White, beige, and Matt Black.   All basins are available in the following finishes: 00 White | 07 Stone | 65 Beige | 08 Matt Black | TC Terracotta (selected models).   About Roca Founded in Barcelona in 1917, Roca is a family-owned company dedicated to the design, manufacturing, and distribution of complete bathroom solutions for architecture, construction, and interior design. Combining over a century of tradition and craftsmanship with a passion for innovation, Roca is today present in 170 countries, operating 79 factories across five continents with more than 20,000 employees worldwide.   Sustainability sits at the core of every Roca decision. The company has achieved a 54% decrease in water consumption, a 53% reduction in Scope 1+2 CO₂ emissions, and 78% of waste valorised — all between 2018 and 2024 — in pursuit of its net-zero ambition by 2045. Roca’s commitment extends beyond product performance to ensuring access to water and sanitation for communities that need it most.   In India, Roca continues to set the standard for premium bathroom experiences, bringing world-class design and engineering to homes, hotels, and commercial spaces across the country.   For more information, visit www.roca.in.

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Global Technology Leader IBM and Galgotias University Join Forces to Nurture Talent in Cutting-Edge Tech Domains of AI and Quantum Computing

IBM and Galgotias University have entered into a strategic collaboration to strengthen industry integrated learning, technology training, and future focused academic programmes across cutting-edge technology domains including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Business Analytics and other Emerging Technologies.   A strategic IBM – Galgotias University collaboration brings industry expertise, advanced technologies and experiential learning directly to students The collaboration is designed to bridge academic learning with fast evolving industry requirements through specialised programmes, curriculum support, access to IBM technologies, faculty development initiatives, certification opportunities, and experiential learning infrastructure. Under the collaboration, students at Galgotias University will gain access to industry aligned programmes supported by IBM’s technology ecosystem and learning platforms. The engagement will also support the development of joint and co branded technology labs, workshops, seminars, industry led sessions, and specialised learning pathways designed around contemporary technology domains. As part of the initiative, the University will offer programmes including B.Tech with Specialization in Quantum Computing, BCA in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, BBA in Business Analytics, and MBA in Business Analytics in association with IBM. The collaboration will also provide students and faculty members opportunities to engage with IBM Developer Skills Network, industry oriented courseware, certification pathways, and guided learning modules supported by subject matter experts and industry practitioners. The proposed engagement further aims to strengthen practical and applied learning through curriculum innovation, faculty orientation programmes, lab based learning environments, and exposure to enterprise grade technologies and software platforms. Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “This collaboration with IBM adds to the growing ecosystem of industry centric Centres of Excellence, technology partnerships, and innovation platforms being built at Galgotias University. Very recently, we inaugurated India’s first Advanced Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence by L&T EduTech, announced our venture ecosystem partnership with 247VC, and now this strategic collaboration with IBM. Together, these initiatives reflect the direction in which higher education is evolving, where universities are becoming active innovation ecosystems closely integrated with industry, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.” He added, “Our objective is to ensure that students are industry ready, innovation oriented, and globally exposed from the very beginning of their academic journey. Collaborations like these create stronger pathways between classrooms, research, startups, technology platforms, and real world problem solving.” The collaboration further strengthens Galgotias University’s larger ecosystem of advanced technology infrastructure, industry partnerships, startup incubation, and multidisciplinary innovation. The University continues to expand its Centres of Excellence and experiential learning ecosystem through collaborations with leading organizations like Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem. About Galgotias University Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings. Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

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Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water company, partners with Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) as its Official Hydration Partner. As part of the second year of the association, Bisleri will support the league’s hydration requirements while strengthening its brand presence across one of India’s premier table tennis platforms.   Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year   Through this association, the brand aims to enhance fan engagement and visibility with an integrated presence across on-ground and media platforms. The partnership will feature prominent branding across LED boards & perimeter boards, showcasing brand film, television commercials, exclusive campaign shoots, visi coolers, iceboxes, and a robust digital campaign with amplification of videos across digital platforms, ensuring extensive engagement with audiences throughout the tournament.   Commenting on the association, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, said,“We’re proud to partner with Ultimate Table Tennis as its Official Hydration Partner. The league has played a key role in growing table tennis in India, and we’re excited to support its journey. By helping athletes stay hydrated and connecting with fans, this partnership reflects our commitment to Indian sport and the role hydration plays in performance.”   Commenting on the partnership, Vita Dani, Chairperson Ultimate Table Tennis said, “We are pleased to welcome Bisleri International as the Official Hydration Partner of Ultimate Table Tennis. As a brand synonymous with trust and quality, Bisleri’s association aligns with our commitment to delivering a world-class sporting experience for players and fans alike. We look forward to working together over the next three years to elevate the league through impactful fan engagement and integrated brand experiences.“   The partnership begins with Season 7 of Ultimate Table Tennis, taking place from July 9 to July 26, 2026, at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. The long-term association reflects Bisleri’s continued commitment to supporting Indian sport, promoting athlete wellness, and strengthening its presence across one of the country’s premier table tennis leagues.   Link: www.instagram.com/reel/DbS5LF6zovc/?igsh=MWNkOWV6cTh0Mm9hMA==   About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.   Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.   The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.   For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

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Luxury Housing Outperforms Amid Global Headwinds

Amid global economic instability that has cast a shadow over several asset classes, India’s luxury housing sector is one to watch. Luxury residences continue to attract the interest of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and are gaining an increasing share of residential sales.  Rising earnings, business success, a growing pool of high-net-worth individuals and unabated interest from Non-Resident Indians have resulted in a persistent demand for upmarket homes.   Luxury housing continues to gain momentum as buyers prioritise premium living, quality, and long-term value across key Indian markets   A report for H1 FY 2026 by Anarock revealed that luxury and premium homes accounted for nearly 42% of new home supply in key cities and represented about Rs. 2.98 lakh crore of residential sales value, growing 7% year-on-year, while housing sales volume remained largely stable. The data indicate that buyers are choosing more upscale homes, alongside the luxury segment’s increased market share.   Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group said, “Despite global economic uncertainties, the luxury housing segment has continued to demonstrate resilience, driven by discerning buyers who are prioritising quality, trust and long-term value over short-term market fluctuations. Today’s luxury homebuyers evaluate not only the residence but the overall living experience, including thoughtful design, wellness, connectivity and the credibility of the developer. As aspirations continue to evolve and purchasing decisions become more value-driven, we believe demand for well-planned premium developments will remain strong over the long term.”   The residential environment is now more appealing for end-users and investors alike, with transparency driven by RERA and quality developments delivered by reputable developers. Among the major cities, Mumbai remains the most expensive residential market in India. Luxury home prices in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have risen by around 43 per cent in the last three years, backed by limited supply and persistent demand from rich homeowners, said ANAROCK. But in terms of transaction value, Delhi-NCR has become the largest luxury home market in the country.   Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, said, “The luxury residential market continues to outperform because buyers today are investing in experiences rather than just square footage. They seek homes that combine thoughtful design, timeless architecture and spaces that evolve with their lifestyle. We believe the future of luxury lies in creating residences that deliver enduring value, comfort and a meaningful living experience for generations.”   Gurugram witnessed sales of properties priced above Rs. 10 crore worth around Rs. 24,120 crore in 2025, beating MMR’s Rs. 21,902 crore for the first time, according to data from Sotheby’s International Realty and CRE Matrix. The trend has continued into 2026, with Gurugram accounting for over 73 per cent of total residential releases in Delhi-NCR during the second quarter. As a major business and financial hub, supplemented with high-end retail, hospitality and social infrastructure, the city continues to attract entrepreneurs, senior executives and worldwide professionals.   Mitul Jain, Managing Director, SPJ Group, said, “Luxury housing is witnessing sustained momentum as homebuyers increasingly prioritise quality, exclusivity and long-term value. Today’s luxury developments are expected to offer a seamless blend of design excellence, superior amenities and strategic locations, making luxury residences a preferred choice for discerning buyers and investors alike. In Gurugram, robust infrastructure, expanding corporate presence and the emergence of well-planned luxury micro-markets have further strengthened demand for luxury residences. As a result, luxury homes have evolved beyond aspirational purchases into resilient, future-ready assets for both end-users and investors.”   Noida is fast turning out to be the next luxury destination in NCR. The developing metro network, motorway connectivity and the impending Noida International Airport are turning the city into an appealing destination for luxury residential complexes. Integrated townships, better value propositions and modern infrastructure are luring end users and investors.   Salil Kumar, Director, Marketing & Business Management, CRC Group, said, “Noida’s luxury housing segment has transformed considerably due to the transformative infrastructure developments and the increasing preference for elevated living experiences. Expectations are still evolving, and the luxury segment is setting the bar higher with sophisticated living experiences that are comfortable, functional, and have long-term value.”   For developers, luxury housing offers the advantage of higher revenue per unit, allowing for greater focus on design, build quality, and customer experience. At the same time, however, buyers are becoming more sophisticated and demanding the worldwide standards of execution, competent property management and long-term after-sales support.   Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments Ltd., said, “The definition of luxury has evolved significantly over the last few years. Buyers today are looking for homes that offer spacious layouts, wellness-driven amenities, sustainable design, and superior connectivity. In Gurugram, this shift is particularly evident as infrastructure upgrades and a thriving corporate ecosystem continue to attract discerning homebuyers and investors. As aspirations continue to rise, thoughtfully planned luxury communities are becoming the benchmark for modern urban living, supported by strong end-user demand, limited quality supply, and strong long-term investment potential.”   Backed by strong economic fundamentals, infrastructure development and changing aspirations of buyers, Delhi-NCR, led by Gurugram and fast catching up Noida, is well placed to remain India’s most vibrant luxury housing market. Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad continue to be the anchors of India’s premium residential growth.

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