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Spread the Goodness: Homemade California Walnut Spreads You'll Want to Keep on Hand

A good homemade spread is one of the easiest ways to add flavour, texture and wholesome goodness to everyday meals. Whether sweet, savoury or a little indulgent, these versatile recipes made with California walnuts are perfect for everything from breakfast toast and sandwiches to snack boards and desserts. Make a batch, store it in a jar, and enjoy delicious possibilities throughout the week.   Wild Blueberry California Walnut Chutney   1. Wild Blueberry California Walnut Chutney   Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small yellow onion, minced 1 tablespoon grated ginger 2 cups wild, frozen blueberries 1 cup red seedless grapes 2 tablespoons sugar 1 bay leaf 1 cinnamon stick Zest of 1 lemon, white pith removed (cut in large strips with a small sharp knife) 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Salt to taste Serving Suggestion: Spread on whole grain crackers or toast and top with toasted walnut pieces.   Preparations 1. Heat oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan. 2. Add onion and ginger and cook until soft. Add all remaining ingredients except vinegar and bring to a boil. 3. Reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens and reduces, about 30 minutes. 4. When chutney has thickened, stir in vinegar and season to taste with salt. 5. Allow to cool and remove bay leaf, cinnamon and lemon zest. 6. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator. Makes about 2 cups.   Cinnamon Fruit and California Walnut Spread     2. Cinnamon Fruit and California Walnut Spread   Ingredients 1/2 cup dried Mediterranean apricots 1 cup California walnuts 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons apple juice concentrate 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon   Preparations 1. Place apricots in a food processor and pulse to chop. 2. Add remaining ingredients and pulse again until finely chopped. 3. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. 4. Serve on whole grain bagels, apple slices, toast or graham crackers. Variations 1. Reduce apricots to 1/4 cup and add 1/4 cup dried cherries. 2. Replace apricots with dried apple rings.   Choco-California Walnut Spread   3. Choco-California Walnut Spread   Ingredients 2 cups lightly toasted walnut halves 1 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (can be a tad more) Scant 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste) 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons agave nectar Optional: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract A touch of heavy cream, stirred in just before using   Preparations 1. Combine everything in a food processor and whip until very smooth (or slightly textured, if you prefer). 2. Transfer to a container with a lid, store at room temperature in a dark place. 3. Use as desired, and if you like, stir in a few drops of cream just before serving, for added richness and best spreadability.

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Fortis Hospitals Mumbai Launches 'Har Ghar Hero', A City-Wide Mission to Make Mumbai CPR-Ready

Fortis Hospitals Mumbai today announced the launch of ‘Har Ghar Hero’, a first-of-its-kind, community-led CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) preparedness movement aimed at empowering Mumbaikars with the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. Bringing together citizens from the length and breadth of Mumbai, across housing societies, corporates, schools, colleges and civic bodies, under one unified movement, the initiative reinforces a simple message – every household should have at least one person trained in CPR, a ‘Hero’ who can step forward when every second counts.   Fortis Mumbai launches ‘Har Ghar Hero’ initiative to build CPR-ready Mumbai with (L-R) Dr Gore, Dr Gaikwad, Dr Singh, Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Dr S. Narayani, Dr Gore & Dr Nabar   The initiative was inaugurated by Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Regional Transport Officer, Thane Region, and Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra. They were joined by Fortis Mumbai’s leadership team and emergency medicine specialists — Dr. Sandeep Gore (Director, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mulund), Dr. Amit Nabar (Director, Emergency & Community Medicine, S. L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate), Dr. Preetam Gaikwad (Head, Emergency Medicine, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi – A Fortis Network Hospital) and Dr. Sudhir Gore (Head, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Kalyan), who spoke about the importance of building CPR preparedness beyond hospital settings. The launch was also supported by Dr. Manjeet Singh Arora, Senior Consultant-General Physician, Fortis Hospital Mulund, who has spearheaded CPR trainings in the community for the past two decades, and won multiple accolades for his contribution to community preparedness.   In a sudden cardiac emergency, the first few minutes are often decisive. Through ‘Har Ghar Hero’, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai aims to bring CPR awareness and training closer to communities, building a wider network of people who are prepared to act until professional medical help arrives. What sets the initiative apart is its scale and reach; it is designed to unite residents from every corner of the city, from South Mumbai to the far suburbs, in a single, sustained movement toward a common goal – a CPR-ready Mumbai.   As part of the initiative, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai will partner with civic bodies, utility and service providers, transport operators, quick-commerce platforms, housing societies, corporate hubs, educational institutions and other community groups to expand CPR awareness across the city. The focus for the coming year would be on equipping 2 lakh Mumbaikars of all ages and backgrounds with essential CPR skills, and building a growing base of trained first responders who can act swiftly in a cardiac emergency, before EMS teams arrive.   Fortis Mumbai will also launch a community perception survey to gauge current levels of emergency preparedness among Mumbaikars, and awareness about application of Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These insights that will help identify gaps and shape future training efforts.   Speaking at the launch, Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra, said, “With ‘Har Ghar Hero’, Fortis Mumbai is taking an important step towards making CPR preparedness a community priority. In a cardiac emergency, the first responder is often not a healthcare professional but a family member, colleague, neighbour or passer-by. Our aim is to build a culture where every household has at least one person who knows what to do when it matters most. Through sustained partnerships and community-led training, we hope to create a city that is better prepared to respond to emergencies.”   Over the past few years, emergency medicine specialists from Fortis Hospitals Mumbai have collectively trained and certified 1.5 lakh Mumbaikars in CPR, and engaged with 1,000+ housing societies, 350+ corporate set-ups, 300+ colleges and schools, 100+ government bodies and civic institutions, and 600+ NGOs and community groups. Through ‘Har Ghar Hero’, Fortis Mumbai aims to build a sustained movement around CPR awareness, growing a network of trained citizens who can act as ‘Heroes’ in the moments when immediate action makes the difference. To get your workplace or housing society trained and certified, call 022 4111 4111.   About Fortis Healthcare Limited   Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.   For more information, please visit www.fortishealthcare.com/   About IHH HEALTHCARE (“IHH”) IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider shaping the future of care. Driven by our aspiration to Care. For Good., we unite medical excellence and innovation, pushing boundaries through our trusted brands such as Acibadem, Gleneagles, Fortis, Island, Mount Elizabeth, Pantai, Parkway and Prince Court. Across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, India and Greater China, our 70,000-strong team delivers world-class excellence every day, within and beyond our 140 healthcare facilities, including more than 80 hospitals. Our comprehensive services span the full healthcare continuum, from primary and ambulatory to quaternary care, complemented by diagnostics, imaging, rehabilitation, telehealth and home care. In partnership with our stakeholders, IHH is advancing value-based care, building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and creating meaningful impact, as we work towards our vision to become the world’s most trusted healthcare services network.   For more information, please visit  www.ihhhealthcare.com

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VAHDAM® India Ranks Among India's Top 5 Great Workplaces 2026

VAHDAM® India, a leading homegrown wellness brand bringing India’s finest teas, herbs, botanicals, and wellness products to the global stage, has been ranked among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces 2026 by Great Place To Work®. The company has also been recognized among India’s Best Workplaces™ in FMCG 2026, India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2026, and Best Workplaces in Manufacturing 2026.   VAHDAM® India Ranks Among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces 2026   This prestigious recognition underscores VAHDAM® India’s unwavering commitment to fostering a progressive, people-first workplace culture. With a strong focus on empowering employees through continuous learning, leadership development, transparent leadership, and meaningful ownership, the company continues to set new benchmarks in employee experience and organizational excellence.   VAHDAM® India’s journey reflects sustained progress over the years, moving from Rank 71 among India’s Top Workplaces in 2024, to Rank 17 in 2025, and now securing a place among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces in 2026. This consistent upward trajectory reflects the trust, engagement, and shared purpose that continue to define the company’s culture.   Adding to this milestone, VAHDAM® India has also been recognized among India’s Best Workplaces™ in FMCG 2026, India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2026, and Best Workplaces in Manufacturing 2026. These accolades build upon the company’s previous recognitions, including Best Workplaces for Women, Best Workplaces in Asia, Best Workplaces for Millennials, and Best Workplaces in FMCG, reflecting a sustained commitment to creating an exceptional workplace rather than a one-time achievement.   Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO, VAHDAM® India, said, “This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people who make VAHDAM® what it is today. Our journey from Rank 71 to Rank 17 and now among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces demonstrates what can be achieved when people feel trusted, empowered, and inspired by a shared purpose. From the very beginning, we’ve believed that building a truly global brand from India starts with building a workplace where people can do their best work and grow alongside the business. As we continue to scale globally, nurturing a culture rooted in ownership, innovation, and continuous learning remains at the heart of everything we do.”   Kalpesh Tiwari, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), VAHDAM® India, added, “We’re proud to be recognized among India’s leading workplaces once again. At VAHDAM®, our culture is built on collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth. We remain committed to investing in our people by strengthening leadership capabilities, fostering learning and wellbeing, and creating opportunities for every individual to thrive. This recognition reflects our belief that when our people succeed, the business succeeds with them.”   The recognition comes as part of a rigorous evaluation conducted by Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, which identifies organizations that create exceptional employee experiences through trust, pride, and camaraderie. VAHDAM® India continues to be recognized for its inclusive leadership, dynamic work environment, and people-centric culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.   About VAHDAM® India Founded in 2015 by Bala Sarda, VAHDAM® India is on a mission to build a homegrown Indian brand for the world. With direct sourcing from farms and estates across India, in-house manufacturing at its 100,000 sq. ft. BRC-certified facility, and a strong presence across more than 140 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, and Europe, VAHDAM® has grown into a leading global wellness brand.   Backed by strong customer love and organic endorsements from global icons like Oprah Winfrey, Mariah Carey, and Martha Stewart, VAHDAM® has raised over Rs 290 crore in funding. The company is Certified Plastic Neutral and Climate Neutral, and contributes 1% of its revenue towards supporting the education of tea growers’ children through Digital Learning Centres and scholarships.   Learn more at www.vahdam.in and follow VAHDAM® India on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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India's Defence Drone Ecosystem Enters a New Phase as Domestic Manufacturers Scale Up

India’s defence drone ecosystem is moving beyond pilots and prototypes into a phase defined by manufacturing scale, procurement visibility and operational deployment. The government’s continued push for indigenous defence production, combined with lessons from recent conflicts and evolving battlefield requirements, is creating a stronger pipeline for homegrown drone manufacturers.   Gamma Rotors   The policy direction has become increasingly clear. Addressing the National Defence Industries Conclave, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India must become a global hub for drone manufacturing, describing indigenous drone production as critical for strategic autonomy and defence preparedness. The government also highlighted that 676 startups, MSMEs and innovators are now part of the iDEX ecosystem, with 58 prototypes worth Rs 3,853 crore receiving procurement clearance and 45 procurement contracts valued at Rs 2,326 crore already signed. (via Press Information Bureau)   This policy push is beginning to translate into procurement. India is preparing what could become its largest-ever military drone acquisition programme, with domestic orders expected to exceed USD 2 billion (over Rs 17,000 crore) this year. (as per Reuters)   Operational capability becomes the new differentiator To bring this vision to life, manufacturers are increasingly being judged not only by technology but also by their ability to manufacture, deliver and support systems at scale.   Delhi-based Gamma Rotors is among the companies benefiting from this shift. The defence UAV manufacturer recently announced that its order book has crossed Rs 60 crore, while projecting FY26 revenue of approximately Rs 30 crore.   The company had earlier raised Rs 27 crore in January 2024 by issuing 19.72 lakh shares at Rs 137.42 per share, implying a post-money valuation of approximately Rs 180 crore based on its 1.30 crore outstanding shares. The capital has since been deployed towards expanding manufacturing capacity, strengthening in-house R&D, and building a resilient supply chain to cater to rising demand from the Indian Armed Forces, central paramilitary forces and state police units.   Gamma Rotors says its growth has been underpinned by operational deployments rather than demonstration projects. During Operation Sindoor, the company executed urgent deliveries of its Nighthawk, Powersorous and Striker UAV platforms for the Indian Army, leveraging its in-house 3D printing and digital manufacturing capabilities to significantly compress production timelines.   The company has also accumulated more than 10,000 flight hours, delivered over 650 drones, serviced more than 2,000 UAVs (including third-party platforms from ideaForge, Asteria Aerospace, Prox Dynamics and DJI), while training over 3,000 defence personnel.   Strengthening investor confidence with large order books Listed drone manufacturer ideaForge Technology continues to remain one of the largest organised players in the segment.   For FY26, the company reported its highest-ever annual order bookings of approximately Rs 530 crore, while executing nearly 40% of its open order book during the fourth quarter. Importantly, ideaForge has announced its entry into the combat drone segment, including long-range strike drones and loitering munitions, to address upcoming military procurement opportunities beyond its traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) portfolio.   Investor confidence in the sector is also reflected in market valuations. ideaForge currently commands a market capitalization of around Rs 4,268 crore against annual revenue of approximately Rs 226 crore, translating to a price-to-sales multiple of nearly 18x. Such premium valuations indicate that the market is pricing in strong long-term growth expectations, driven by expanding defence procurement, a robust order pipeline and the increasing role of indigenous drone manufacturers in India’s evolving defence ecosystem.   Another rapidly expanding player is Raphe mPhibr, which has invested heavily in manufacturing infrastructure. The company recently expanded its production footprint in Noida through the acquisition of an additional 11.5-acre industrial site, complementing its existing defence manufacturing facility where it has reportedly invested around Rs 800 crore. Raphe has also developed indigenous military-grade autopilot systems and drone engines, with its platforms seeing operational deployment during Operation Sindoor.   Manufacturing depth will define the next phase The competitive landscape is also evolving beyond startups. Larger defence companies including Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro and Adani Defence have expanded their unmanned systems capabilities, while DRDO-backed programmes continue to create opportunities across surveillance, logistics, loitering munitions and armed UAV platforms.   For emerging manufacturers, however, competitive advantage is increasingly shifting towards manufacturing readiness rather than simply platform development. The ability to rapidly fulfil defence orders, maintain indigenous supply chains, support lifecycle maintenance and train operators is becoming as important as technological innovation.   As India’s procurement pipeline expands and the military increasingly favours indigenous platforms under the Atmanirbhar Bharat framework, companies that combine proven operational performance with scalable manufacturing are likely to capture a growing share of the market.

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Elpro International School Celebrates Remarkable CBSE Class 10 Results with a Perfect 500/500

Elpro International School has once again reaffirmed its position among the country’s leading educational institutions with an exceptional performance in the CBSE Board Examinations 2025–26. The highlight of this year’s results was Neehar Lohade, who achieved a perfect 100% (500/500 considering the Best 5 subjects as per CBSE norms) in the Class X CBSE Board Examination—an extraordinary accomplishment that places him among the country’s highest achievers.   Elpro International School Celebrates Remarkable CBSE Class 10 Results   The school’s overall results reflected consistent academic excellence across both Class X and XII. Out of 494 students who appeared for the Class X examination, 287 students scored above 90%, 142 crossed the 95% mark, and students secured 104 perfect subject scores, with the school maintaining a 100% pass rate. The Class X batch recorded an impressive school average of 88.7%, with a median score of 91.4%.   Dr. Amrita Vohra with CBSE class 10 achievers   Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Amrita Vohra, Director Principal, Elpro International School, said, “Neehar’s remarkable achievement of securing a perfect 100% is a proud moment not only for Elpro International School but for the entire education fraternity. Such milestones are never the result of talent alone—they are built on years of disciplined effort, passionate teachers, supportive parents, and a learning environment that encourages every child to pursue excellence with integrity. While we celebrate outstanding scores, we remain equally committed to nurturing compassionate, confident and future-ready individuals who will make meaningful contributions to society.”   Neehar Lohade   The school also recorded strong outcomes in Class XII, with a 100% pass percentage, a school average of 83.17%, and 39 students scoring above 90% across Science, Commerce and Humanities streams. The school’s success extended beyond board examinations, with its Class XII students earning admission offers from some of the world’s leading universities, including IIT Madras, King’s College London, University College London (UCL), The University of Hong Kong (HKU), University of Leeds, Leiden University and other prestigious institutions. The placements reflect Elpro’s growing reputation for nurturing globally competitive students through strong academics, personalised counselling, and a future-ready learning environment.   Elpro’s academic journey has shown consistent year-on-year growth, with the Class X school average rising from 84.8% in 2022–23 to 88.7% in 2025–26, while the proportion of students scoring above 90% has nearly doubled during the same period. The school attributes this sustained success to rigorous academics, personalised mentoring, data-driven interventions, and a strong focus on holistic development.   With this year’s outstanding board results and Neehar Lohade’s perfect score, Elpro International School continues to strengthen its reputation as an institution committed to nurturing excellence, character, and future-ready leadership.

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Indo-Africa Cleft Conference 2026: Smile Train's Largest Regions Come Together to Share a Decade of Cleft Care Learning

The world’s largest cleft-focused organization, Smile Train, concluded the Indo-Africa Cleft Conference in Goa today. Building on the initiative first established in 2012, Indo-Africa Synergy 2026 brought Smile Train’s India and Africa teams together to exchange knowledge and experience and collaborate towards advancing sustainable cleft care.   Indo-Africa Cleft Conference Synergy 2026: Excelling Together The conference brought together surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, speech therapists, orthodontists and multidisciplinary cleft care professionals from Smile Train’s two largest regions, reaffirming its commitment to stronger, locally led sustainable healthcare systems through collaboration, continuous learning and knowledge exchange. Over the past decade, both India and Africa have made significant strides in expanding access to comprehensive cleft care in their own regions. Each region has developed unique areas of excellence shaped by real-world experience and field-led innovation. Indo-Africa Cleft Conference 2026 was designed to bring these learnings together, creating opportunities to exchange proven approaches, adopt best practices and jointly develop solutions that strengthen cleft care across both regions while contributing to Smile Train’s global pursuit of ensuring every child born with a cleft has access to safe, timely and comprehensive care. Speaking on the occasion, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train, said, “Indo-Africa Synergy represents much more than a conference; it reflects how Smile Train believes sustainable change happens. Over the past decade, both India and Africa have built remarkable expertise through locally led program, and today we can learn from one another as equal partners. By sharing knowledge, strengthening skills and co-creating solutions, we are investing not only in healthcare professionals but also in better outcomes for every child born with a cleft. This collaboration demonstrates that when expertise is shared across borders, its impact extends far beyond any one country.” Nkeiruka Obi, Vice President and Regional Director, Smile Train, Africa, added, “India and Africa bring together two of Smile Train’s largest and most experienced programs, each with deep expertise gained over years in providing safe and high-quality comprehensive cleft care within diverse local contexts. In our shared commitment to healthcare equity, this conference offers a valuable opportunity to learn from our experiences, share practical solutions, and innovations, while strengthening capacity of cleft care professionals. By advancing South–South collaboration, we truly can accelerate access to quality cleft care for more children and families in our communities.” The two-day program featured expert discussions, knowledge sharing and hands-on workshops covering surgical excellence, patient safety and comprehensive cleft care. Participants also exchanged experiences on advocacy, engagement and healthcare system strengthening, recognizing that sustainable cleft care extends beyond surgery to encompass the entire continuum of care. The conference truly reflects Smile Train’s sustainable model of strengthening local healthcare systems by investing in medical professionals through continuous training, mentorship and global knowledge exchange. By fostering collaboration between India and Africa, Smile Train is building stronger local capacity and advancing comprehensive cleft care for children in both regions. Smile Train programs in Africa began in 2002 and since then, they have spread across nearly 40 countries, transforming the lives of 200,000+ cleft-affected individuals. Since 2000, Smile Train has supported more than 800,000 free cleft surgeries across India through a network of 130+ partner hospitals. For cleft treatment-related queries or support, please call the India toll-free helpline number: 1800 103 8301.   For more information, please log on to www.smiletrainindia.org.

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India's Iconic Landmarks Glow in Teal Green for World Fragile X Awareness Day

From the Taj Mahal Tower Mumbai to Apollo Children’s Hospital Chennai, the nation unites today to shine a light on the leading inherited cause of autism. ‘Fragile’, the first-ever Indian short film dedicated to shedding light on Fragile X Syndrome now on YouTube   India’s architectural landscape is transforming into a visual beacon of hope as major cities across the nation illuminate their most recognizable landmarks in vibrant Teal Green. Spearheaded by the Fragile X Society India, this massive nationwide campaign is officially underway today to bring Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)—the world’s most common inherited single-gene cause of autism and intellectual disability—out of the shadows and into the mainstream public consciousness.   The Iconic Taj Mahal Tower in Mumbai lit up on the occasion of World Fragile X Awareness Day 2026   The scale of this year’s activation is unprecedented. A massive network of corporate partners, medical institutions, and educational hubs are actively participating today. While many iconic buildings are lighting up their massive exterior facades in teal green tonight, others are driving the message home internally right now with dedicated awareness posters, educational standees, and interactive community displays.   Several prominent landmarks and institutions across India joined the global initiative by illuminating their buildings today. Participating locations included the Taj Mahal Tower (IHCL), Planet Godrej and Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, City Centre New Town, Salt Lake Kolkata and the Amrit Somani Memorial Center in Kolkata, The Connaught (IHCL SeleQtions) in New Delhi, Apollo Children’s Hospital in Chennai, WOW Crest (IHCL SeleQtions) in Indore, Daiwik Hotels in Rameswaram, and educational institutions such as The Cathedral and John Connon Senior School and Thomas House.   Alongside the physical illuminations taking place today, Fragile X Society India is breaking new ground in advocacy with the recent release of ‘Fragile’, the first-ever Indian short film dedicated to shedding light on Fragile X Syndrome. Available to stream on the premier digital platform Pocket Films’ YouTube channel, the film beautifully and accurately captures the emotional and diagnostic roller-coaster experienced by families navigating the condition.   To ensure the message resonates deeply with the public, the film features a stellar ensemble of mainstream Indian talent, including Rajniesh Duggall, Amruta Khanvilkar, and veteran actor Govvind Namdev. Their powerful performances are bringing critical emotional gravity to a genetic condition that remains deeply misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed.   “For over two decades, our absolute mission has been to ensure that no family walks this path in the dark,” said Shalini Kedia, Chairperson and Founder of Fragile X Society India. “An accurate diagnosis doesn’t just explain a child’s present behavioral challenges; it fundamentally re-charts a family’s reproductive future. By lighting up our country’s proudest landmarks in teal green today, we are breaking the silence. We are building a nation-wide system of support, recognition, and early medical intervention for the estimated 400,000 affected individuals across India.”   Citizens across the country are invited to be part of the movement by visiting the illuminated landmarks in their cities, capturing photos against the teal green facades and sharing them on social media. They can also watch the short film Fragile on the Pocket Films YouTube channel and share it with friends, family and medical professionals, while helping spread awareness by sharing the official Instagram page, @fragilexindia, to encourage conversations around genetic health and autism awareness.   Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic condition that causes developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, learning challenges, and behavioral traits often overlapping with autism. Because general awareness remains low, millions of individuals across India remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, and countless others are unaware that they are silent carriers of the mutated gene. Simple genetic testing and early clinical intervention can completely transform the quality of life for an affected individual and provide families with vital clarity.   Fragile – A film on Fragile X Syndrome Awareness | Social Awareness Short Film: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qyaRA6bZMw   About Fragile X Society India Founded in 2003 by Shalini Kedia, Fragile X Society India is the country’s premier support network dedicated to individuals and families affected by Fragile X Syndrome. The society acts as a critical bridge between families and the medical community, offering vital resources, directing families toward accurate genetic testing, providing professional counseling, and fostering a deeply supportive national community.

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Environmental CSR in India: Rs. 17,000 Crore Deployed Over A Decade, But Climate-Vulnerable Regions Remain Underfunded

Environmental CSR in India has grown steadily over the past decade, with Corporate India investing Rs. 17,377 crore across environmental sustainability, conservation of natural resources and agroforestry initiatives. However, a new report by Sattva Consulting, powered by India Data Insights (IDI), finds that while environmental CSR has expanded, funding remains concentrated among a relatively small group of companies and is not always aligned with the geographies and sectors facing the country’s greatest environmental challenges.   The report, A Decade of Green Spending: What Rs. 17,000 Crores of Environmental CSR Reveals About Corporate India, lands at a moment when India, ranked the 9th most climate-vulnerable nation in the Climate Risk Index 2026, is under growing pressure to align corporate giving with climate resilience goals under Viksit Bharat 2047 and its 2070 Net Zero commitment.   Environmental CSR spending fell to a post-pandemic low of 4.4% of total CSR outlay in FY2020-21, as companies redirected funds towards health and relief efforts. It has since recovered, stabilising at 8.4% of total CSR spend in FY2023-24, still well behind enduring priorities such as education and health. The report notes that with an estimated $2.5 trillion needed to meet India’s Nationally Determined Contributions by 2030, and $10 trillion required to build a climate-resilient economy by 2047, CSR capital has a distinct role to play in bridging gaps where public systems face capacity or resource constraints.   While environmental CSR is growing, corporate philanthropy is not yet fully aligned with India’s highest climate risks, especially sectors with the greatest environmental footprint.   A Concentrated Funding Base Just one out of five companies that report CSR spending direct any of it towards the environment. Less than a fifth of smallest CSR spenders allocate funds towards climate action. In contrast, nearly all of the companies with CSR budgets over Rs. 50 crore reserve a portion of their outlay for environment-related projects.   European-headquartered MNCs operating in India show markedly higher participation (about two-thirds) than Indian companies (54%), a gap the report links to the influence of stringent European regulatory frameworks, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).   Growth Without Scale The growth in environmental CSR is being driven almost entirely by a rising number of small and mid-sized projects rather than larger, systemic investments.   The number of environmental CSR projects grew 20% over the past three years, while aggregate spending grew only 6% in the same period, leaving the average project size flat at Rs. 45 lakh. Only 29 projects in FY2024 carried budgets of Rs. 10 crore or more, barely up from 22 such projects in FY2020-21.   Divergence In Environmental Footprint And Funding The report finds a marked disconnect between industries’ environmental footprint and their environmental CSR behaviour. Sectors with some of the largest environmental footprints, including Energy, Mining, and Oil, Gas, Coal & Petroleum, show relatively low participation in environmental CSR. Even where companies in these sectors do undertake environmental initiatives, they allocate only 5-7% of their CSR budgets towards environmental causes, well below several consumer-facing industries. By contrast, consumer-facing sectors such as FMCG, Food and Beverages, and Automotive, despite a comparatively lighter environmental footprint, allocate over 10% of CSR spend to environmental causes, a pattern the report attributes to brand positioning and consumer-facing ESG commitments rather than direct impact alignment.   Climate-Vulnerable Districts Underfunded  The report’s starkest finding concerns geography. Nearly 45% of environmental CSR funding is directed to pan-India or multi-state programmes, and a further 22% flows to Tier-1 cities, leaving just over a third of funding for more localised, place-based interventions.   States including Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, all classified as highly climate-vulnerable, receive less than Rs. 25 per capita in environmental CSR. The pattern sharpens at the district level: among India’s 50 most climate-vulnerable districts, 30 of them received only 1% (Rs. 106 crore) of total environmental CSR spending over the past three years, with a handful of districts in Assam alone accounting for 60% of what little vulnerable-region funding exists.   Traditional Themes Dominate Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions.   The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport and climate.   Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions.   The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport, climate governance and carbon MRV, and circular economy alongside nearly Rs. 500 crore embedded within Health, Livelihoods, and Education CSR programmes that integrate water, clean energy, and climate-resilience programmes.   What This Means For Corporate India “India’s climate ambitions will require every form of capital to work more strategically. As climate risks increasingly affect business operations, supply chains and communities, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from project-based philanthropy into catalytic capital, supporting climate-vulnerable regions, strengthening ecosystem resilience, and complementing broader sustainability and ESG efforts,” said Srikrishna Sridhar Murthy, Co-founder and CEO, Sattva Consulting.   Looking Ahead The report’s authors argue that as ESG disclosure norms tighten and climate risk becomes more immediate for business operations, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from a fragmented, theme-led funding mechanism into a more targeted, catalytic lever for climate resilience. It should align more closely with industry’s environmental footprint, channel funding towards India’s most climate-vulnerable geographies, and complement existing

Environmental CSR in India: Rs. 17,000 Crore Deployed Over A Decade, But Climate-Vulnerable Regions Remain Underfunded Read More »

Sky City Mall Brings the Spirit of Football to Life with an Immersive Fan Experience

Known for creating memorable experiences beyond shopping, Sky City Mall recently brought the excitement of the FIFA World Cup closer to home through a football-themed fan experience that welcomed sports enthusiasts, families, and shoppers for an action-packed weekend.   Freestyle football and Bboying at Sky City Mall   The mall was transformed into an immersive football arena with FIFA World Cup-inspired décor, vibrant installations, and interactive zones, creating the perfect setting for visitors to celebrate the spirit of the game. The activation offered an engaging blend of entertainment, competition, and community, drawing football enthusiasts of all ages and creating a lively atmosphere across the mall.   The event witnessed an enthusiastic response, with audiences participating throughout the activation. Visitors tested their skills through a range of interactive challenges, including the Football Precision Challenge, where participants aimed at numbered targets against the clock to demonstrate speed and accuracy, and the Build the Football Puzzle Challenge, where individuals raced against time to assemble a football from scrambled puzzle pieces in a fun test of teamwork and problem-solving. These activities encouraged friendly competition while offering visitors an opportunity to engage with the sport in a fun and interactive way.   Adding to the excitement were B-boying and freestyle football performances, featuring an electrifying mix of football tricks, music, and street culture. The performances transformed the mall’s atrium into a vibrant fan zone, where visitors cheered, interacted, and celebrated together, creating an energetic atmosphere throughout the event. Families, children, and football enthusiasts gathered to witness the high-energy acts, making the activation a memorable weekend outing for visitors of all age groups.   The football-themed experience reinforced Sky City Mall’s commitment to offering engaging lifestyle experiences that extend beyond retail. By combining interactive activities, live entertainment, and immersive décor, the activation offered visitors a memorable destination where they could connect with family and friends while celebrating one of the world’s most-loved sports. The event also reflected the mall’s focus on curating experiences that encourage community participation and create moments of shared celebration.   As one of Mumbai’s leading lifestyle destinations, Sky City Mall continues to redefine the shopping experience by seamlessly blending retail, dining, entertainment, and experiential events under one roof. Through a thoughtfully curated calendar of seasonal activations, cultural celebrations, and family-focused engagements, the mall consistently offers visitors new reasons to return and discover something unique with every visit.   With its expansive retail offerings, diverse culinary experiences, and vibrant entertainment initiatives, Sky City Mall remains committed to creating an inclusive space where people can shop, dine, unwind, and celebrate together. Through initiatives like these, the mall continues to strengthen its position as a community-centric destination that brings people together through immersive experiences, interactive entertainment, and memorable engagements that resonate with visitors long after the event concludes.

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RAG Holdings Earns Great Place to Work Certification, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Building Great Businesses Through People First Approach

RAG Holdings, a leading organization, with premium business centres in Dubai, enabling entrepreneurs to operate and scale in the UAE, has been officially Certified as a Great Place to Work®, one of the world’s most respected recognitions for workplace culture and employee experience.   The RAG Holdings Team celebrates its Great Place to Work Certification, recognizing a workplace culture built on trust, collaboration and shared success   Awarded entirely on confidential employee feedback, the Great Place to Work Certification recognizes organizations that consistently foster trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth.   For RAG Holdings, this recognition represents more than a workplace achievement—it reflects a philosophy that has guided the organization since its inception: Building great businesses starts with great people.   As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading destinations for entrepreneurship, innovation, and foreign investment, RAG Holdings believes that exceptional businesses are built on two foundations: an environment where companies can thrive and a culture where people can flourish.   Today, RAG Holdings has evolved beyond traditional business setup by creating a comprehensive business growth ecosystem. Through its network of premium business centres and flexible office spaces across Dubai, combined with integrated corporate services, RAG empowers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and multinational organizations with everything they need to establish, operate and expand successfully in the UAE.   Its ecosystem includes premium office spaces, coworking environments, meeting facilities, Mainland and Free Zone company formation, PRO services, Golden Visa support, accounting and bookkeeping, corporate compliance, trademark registration, and strategic business advisory-all delivered through a seamless, client-centric experience.   “At RAG Holdings, we have always believed that our greatest investment is our people. This certification is particularly meaningful because it comes directly from the voices of our employees. It reflects the culture we have built together-one founded on trust, collaboration, learning and shared success. As we continue expanding our Business Growth Ecosystem and supporting entrepreneurs from around the world, our people will remain our greatest strength.” Rassal Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, RAG Holdings.   The Great Place to Work® Certification™ marks another significant milestone in RAG Holdings’ journey as it continues to redefine how businesses establish and grow in the UAE.   More than a provider of business services, RAG Holdings has built an integrated ecosystem that supports businesses throughout every stage of their journey, from securing premium office infrastructure and launching operations to managing compliance, accessing strategic advisory, expanding into new markets and building long-term business success.   The milestone was celebrated with employees, founder & CEO Rassal Ahmed and the leadership team, recognizing the people whose passion and dedication continue to drive the organization forward. The celebration was further made memorable with a congratulatory message from Dr. Shashi Tharoor to the entire RAG team.   The company believes that exceptional employee experiences create exceptional client experiences. By continuously investing in its people, leadership, and workplace culture, RAG Holdings strengthens its ability to deliver outstanding service while contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s preferred destination for entrepreneurs and global businesses.   As RAG Holdings continues its regional expansion, the company remains committed to attracting exceptional talent, developing future leaders and building a workplace culture that inspires innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth.   About RAG Holdings RAG Holdings is a leading business growth ecosystem enabling entrepreneurs and enterprises to establish, operate and scale in the Dubai, India, Qatar & Singapore.   At the heart of its ecosystem are three flagship business centres across Dubai: RAG Global Business Hub – Al Qusais RAG Biz HQ – Sheikh Zayed Road RAG Tower – Al Barsha   Together, these flagship business centres provide premium office spaces, flexible workspaces, coworking environments, meeting facilities and business infrastructure designed to help entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and multinational companies build a strong presence in the UAE.   Complementing its workspace ecosystem, RAG delivers an integrated portfolio of business solutions including Mainland and Free Zone company formation, PRO services, Golden Visa solutions, accounting and bookkeeping, corporate compliance, trademark registration and strategic business advisory,providing everything businesses need to establish, operate and grow under one roof.   Driven by innovation, operational excellence and a people-first philosophy, RAG Holdings is redefining how entrepreneurs and enterprises build, grow and expand in one of the world’s most dynamic business destinations.   About Great Place to Work® Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviours proven to drive business performance. Great Place to Work® Certification™ is awarded based entirely on confidential employee feedback and is recognised globally as one of the most credible employer recognitions.

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