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Hong Kong Hong Kong’s Halloween celebrations have long been recognised across Asia for their vibrant atmosphere and creative diversity. This year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is scaling up the event by joining hands with industry partners to launch the first-ever “Hong Kong Halloween Month”, a city-wide, cosplay themed street party that will roll out over several weeks at popular tourist spots. Combined with signature Halloween programmes at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Ocean Park Hong Kong, as well as a range of exclusive, limited-time experiences around town, the initiative will transform the entire city into a giant Halloween party and give travellers a compelling reason to visit.   The theme of “Hong Kong Halloween Month” is “Make the Streets Your Runway”​   HKTB Executive Director Anthony Lau said, “What was once concentrated on a single day or a few venues is being upgraded into ‘Hong Kong Halloween Month’, a city-wide celebration spanning an entire month. We want to turn up the festive energy across all corners of the city and invite visitors and locals alike to dress up, join the street party themed ‘Make the Streets Your Runway’, and experience a Halloween celebration found ‘Only in Hong Kong’. I extend my sincere gratitude to all our partners, supporting organisations and the wider industry for coming together to deliver the most exciting Halloween festivities possible. Our shared ambition is to make Hong Kong the go-to Halloween destination in Asia — the first city that comes to mind when people think of where to celebrate — while drive footfall and business opportunities across districts and sectors.” Hong Kong’s Largest Halloween Cosplay Street Party Takes Centre Stage as The Whole City Dresses Up to Join the Revelry In addition to promoting the Halloween celebrations at the two major theme parks, HKTB has partnered with Hongkong Land, Kai Tak Sports Park, the Lan Kwai Fong Association, Langham Place and Sino Group to elevate the city’s Halloween festivities, creating Hong Kong’s largest-ever cross-district Halloween cosplay street party and calling on people of all ages to dress up and join in the Halloween revelry. Starting on 17 October and spanning three consecutive Saturdays, popular tourism districts including Central, Kai Tak, Lan Kwai Fong, Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui will come alive with Halloween cosplay street parties featuring a wide array of programmes, including electronic music parties, cosplay carnivals, interactive ghost performances and immersive experiences. Blending classic Halloween elements with popular anime and movie characters, contemporary art and distinctive local culture such as Hong Kong’s iconic red minibuses and Cantopop, the events will offer a uniquely Hong Kong Halloween experience. The citywide festivities will culminate on Halloween night, 31 October, inviting locals and visitors alike to join in the fun across the city. Signature Halloween Events at Two Major Theme Parks Now in Full Swing Hong Kong’s two theme parks have once again rolled out their highly anticipated signature Halloween events, complementing the citywide festive atmosphere and adding even more exciting experiences to “HK Halloween Month”. From now until 1 November, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort presents “Disney Halloween Time”, transforming the resort into an ultimate playground for guests to dress-up and have fun! Disney Villains and Disney friends are ready for wicked encounters with guests, bringing a line-up of entertainment offerings, including the all-new musical celebration “Mickey’s Happy Halloween Adventure”, a grander “Uninvited! A Villains Takeover Party”, award-winning musical “Let’s Get Wicked”, along with a variety of themed food and beverages, merchandise, and Trick-or-Treat experiences. Ocean Park Hong Kong’s annual “Halloween Fest” is making a sensational return! Running from now until 1 November, the event unlocks four thrilling scare experiences and a packed line-up of unmissable Halloween entertainment. Highlights include a landmark collaboration with “Under the Castle”, an original intellectual property (IP) created by internationally renowned artist Jackson Wang, delivering an immersive, multi-sensory horror experience. Visitors can also enjoy themed dining, limited-edition merchandise, and a series of interactive activities. Blending scares with high-energy fun, Ocean Park welcomes visitors to celebrate Halloween at the Park. Open-Top Sightseeing Buses and “Ding Ding” Specially Open for Halloween — Free Rides for Festively Dressed Visitors The “Hong Kong Halloween Month” festive experience will further extend across the city as HKTB has teamed up with Citybus and Hong Kong Tramways to offer complimentary Halloween night rides, allowing visitors to soak up the atmosphere and capture memorable photos along the way. Citybus will launch a Halloween-themed open-top sightseeing bus route to major festive hotspots on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon, including Statue Square in Central, Langham Place in Mong Kok, Kai Tak Sports Park, Tsim Sha Tsui Centre and Lan Kwai Fong. Visitors who turn up in creative Halloween costumes can ride for free and take in the city’s lively Halloween atmosphere from a whole new perspective.   Meanwhile, the long-established Hong Kong Tramways will also transform two themed trams into Halloween party trams, running between Causeway Bay and Sheung Wan (Western Market). Normally reserved for private hire, the party trams will be specially opened to the public this Halloween. Visitors dressed in festive attire can hop on board free of charge and enjoy Hong Kong’s night scenery as part of a one-of-a-kind Halloween “Ding Ding” tram experience.    The number of operating days and departures for the limited-time free night rides on the Citybus sightseeing buses and the Hong Kong Tramways party trams will be a total of six days, covering 17–18 October (Saturday and Sunday), 24–25 October (Saturday and Sunday) and 30–31 October (Halloween Eve and Halloween Day). The sightseeing buses will run between various locations, departing every 45 minutes. While the party trams will depart hourly. The increased frequency allows participants to plan their itineraries flexibly and enjoy multiple Halloween hotspots with ease.   Share Your Halloween Moments and Win Prizes  To encourage visitors to take part in “Hong Kong Halloween Month” and share their festive experiences, HKTB will host a social media campaign during the event period. Participants simply need to post photos or

SharonPly honoured five master woodcraft artisans at the seventh edition of its annual I AM STRONGEST Awards, recognising their exceptional craftsmanship, dedication and contribution to preserving India’s rich woodcraft traditions.   L-R: Kumarasamy Ramesh, S. Thirunavukkarasu, S. Maasnam, Vishnu Khemani, Appar Lakshmanan and R. Rangachari at I AM STRONGEST Awards   The 2026 edition, themed “CARVED IN STRENGTH: Honouring Generations of Craftsmanship & Innovation,” celebrated the people behind some of the country’s most intricate wooden creations. From temple chariots and sacred sculptures to monumental doors and architectural woodwork, the awardees represent generations of knowledge, skill and perseverance that continue to keep traditional craftsmanship alive.   The five awardees were Perunthachar Appar Lakshmanan, Dr. R. Rangachari Sthapathi, Thiru. S. Maasanam Achari, Thiru. S. Thirunavukkarasu Sthapathi, and Thiru. Kumarasamy Ramesh Sthapathi. Their work spans temple and heritage projects across India and overseas, while their contributions extend beyond craftsmanship to training, knowledge-sharing and supporting the wider artisan community.   Perunthachar Appar Lakshmanan was recognised for his innovative approach to traditional carpentry, including his distinctive wooden car, bike and household creations. A master carpenter from the Thiruvallur region, he has created temple chariots at several locations across Tamil Nadu, including the Tamil Ther at Chennai International Airport. A recipient of the Poompuhar State Award for 2011–2012, he has also authored ten books on carpentry and trained students in wood sculpture.   Dr. R. Rangachari Sthapathi was honoured for carrying forward a 13-generation legacy of temple chariot making and traditional wood sculpture. Through Rangachari Traditional Wood Sculptures, he creates hand-carved sculptures, decorative panels and architectural woodwork rooted in Tamil Nadu’s craft traditions. His work reflects both the intricate detailing of traditional sculpture and his commitment to passing this knowledge on to future generations.   Thiru. S. Maasanam Achari was recognised for his mastery of large-scale wood carving using traditional hand tools. Based in Madurai, he continues a family craft tradition spanning for about 55 years, working with his brothers to create deity figures, Chettinad-style doors and pooja mandapams. His family workshop has contributed wooden structural components to the Meenakshi Amman Temple’s Velli Ambalam silver mandapam and supplied carved pillars and deity sculptures to Malaysia.   Thiru. S. Thirunavukkarasu Sthapathi was honoured for his extensive contribution to crafting temple vahanams and preserving the intricate sculptural traditions associated with sacred processional works. A graduate of the Government College of Sculpture and Architecture, Mamallapuram, he carries forward his traditional practice through MARABU in Andipandal. His major works include a 62-foot chariot for the Sri Pandurangan–Rukmini Temple at Govindapuram and the 32-foot Athi Vinayagar sculpture, carved from athi wood, installed in Nagapattinam.   Thiru. Kumarasamy Ramesh Sthapathi was recognised for combining craftsmanship with a strong commitment to the welfare of fellow artisans. With more than two decades of experience, he leads Manasa Wood Creations, specialising in traditional woodcraft and large temple timber structures. Among his major projects are the 90 doors created for Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, handed over in November 2025, along with temple projects undertaken in India and overseas.   Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vishnu Khemani, Founder and Managing Director, SharonPly, said, “A finished creation reflects not just skill, but years of learning, discipline and experience. Through this year’s I AM STRONGEST Awards, we place the maker at the centre, celebrating artisans whose expertise preserves traditional knowledge while evolving with contemporary needs. CARVED IN STRENGTH reflects SharonPly’s long standing association with wood and our respect for the craftsmanship that transforms it into functional, architectural and cultural creations. By honouring these masters of woodcraft, we hope to inspire greater appreciation for skilled craftsmanship and encourage the transfer of knowledge across generations. I AM STRONGEST continues to spotlight individuals whose achievements and contributions inspire others.”   I AM STRONGEST: Celebrating Strength in Every Form Launched in 2019, the SharonPly I AM STRONGEST Awards celebrates individuals whose actions demonstrate strength, resilience and service to society. Its first edition honoured wheelchair basketball player Malathi and social change maker Logammal. In 2020, the Awards paid tribute to frontline workers who lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the 2021 edition recognised everyday heroes who supported communities during the pandemic’s second wave. Both editions were held online. In 2022, the platform turned its attention to animal welfare, celebrating individuals whose work extended to birds, elephants and other animals. The 2024 edition honoured Tamil Nadu’s Olympic hockey legends, while the 2025 edition recognised retired senior Army officers who continue to contribute to public understanding as defence analysts.   With each edition, I AM STRONGEST has sought to make a different form of strength visible. In 2026, the spotlight turned to artisans whose names may be less familiar than the remarkable works they have created—recognising the skill, experience and dedication behind generations of craftsmanship.   About SharonPly Established in 1987, SharonPly offers plywood, decorative veneers, doors and related products. Its manufacturing facility is located in Gummidipoondi – India’s largest plywood manufacturing facility, near Chennai, and is among. The company’s connection with wood gives the 2026 edition of I AM STRONGEST Awards particular significance, as it recognises the human skill, knowledge and dedication that transform wood into products, structures and cultural creations.

The campaign builds on Crocs’ global ‘Feel It All’ creative platform for India, tapping into the festive season as a moment of connection, celebration and self-expression. KL Rahul is joined by veteran actor Dalip Tahil, creators Rida Tharana and Prish, and the internet’s favourite bodyguard Amin Khan, reflecting the diverse personalities and perspectives that define modern celebrations. A festive capsule collection of CrocsTM shoes and elevated Jibbitz™ charms put personalization at the heart of occasion dressing.   This festive season, Crocs, a world leader in innovative casual footwear for all, brings its global Feel It All platform to life through a lens inspired by modern India. Starring Brand Ambassador KL Rahul and a diverse cast of personalities, the campaign reflects a new era of celebrations that are increasingly personal, expressive, and multifaceted. As consumers seek styles that help them showcase their individuality without compromising comfort, Feel It All highlights Crocs’ unique ability to bring together comfort, style and personalization across every festive occasion.    Crocs Festive Campaign   Campaign video link: www.instagram.com/reel/DeGj8-gs96j/?stkn=bXNyYmR3bmk1Y2Vu   At the center of the campaign is a social-first film featuring KL Rahul, built around a playful ‘dhoom scroll’ that transforms his feed into a gateway to a series of festive experiences. As Rahul navigates a stream of posts, each swipe draws him into a different world featuring actor Dalip Tahil, creators Rida Tharana and Prish, and internet-famous bodyguard Amin Khan. Together, they bring to life the many ways India comes together during the festive season, with each character’s unique quirks, traditions and distinctive sense of style offering a fresh perspective on modern celebration.  Set against an original soundtrack by industry stalwart Mikey McCleary, the narrative unfolds through a series of unexpected encounters that capture the diversity, energy and individuality that define the season today. As Rahul moves through these moments, the line between the digital and real world begins to blur, culminating in a simple realization: while social feeds may capture the spirit of the season, its most meaningful moments are experienced with the people around us.  Woven seamlessly into the campaign narrative is Crocs’ festive capsule collection, featuring the Classic Ballet silhouette and Saturday Sandal styled with elevated, blingy Jibbitz charms. Through the distinct styles and personalities featured in the film, the collection demonstrates how comfort, customization, and festive dressing can come together in a way that feels personal to every celebration.    Commenting on the campaign launch, Varun Sehgal, SVP & General Manager, APAC, Crocs, said, “India’s festive season is not only a key business moment but also a powerful expression of culture, identity and individuality. With Feel It All, we wanted to celebrate the different ways people show up during this time of year. By pairing our iconic silhouettes with festive styling and personalization, we’re giving consumers fresh inspiration to make Crocs a part of their celebrations while staying true to their own unique style.”    KL Rahul, Crocs’ Global Brand Ambassador, added, “I am someone who usually enjoys being away from the spotlight, so being part of a film with so much energy and personality was fun for me. What made the experience even more interesting was discovering how I could style Crocs shoes and Jibbitz charms with festive looks and seeing how naturally they worked with even the most elevated outfits.”    Conceptualised by One Hand Clap, the campaign brings together a vibrant mix of characters and festive moments through the lens of KL Rahul’s feed. Speaking about the campaign, Nirzery Iswalkar, Group Creative Head, One Hand Clap said, “The idea was to create a festive celebration that feels as varied and unpredictable as the people in it. KL Rahul’s social media feed gave us the perfect device to move between different worlds, personalities and moments while keeping the film playful and full of energy. Every swipe brings a new story, but Crocs is the thread that brings them all together.”    Young, playful and feel-good, the film celebrates the freedom to show up as yourself and enjoy the season your own way.    Beyond the campaign film, Feel It All will come to life through an integrated 360-degree rollout across digital, social, influencer and retail channels. Supported by creator collaborations, festive gifting, elevated in-store experiences and curated seasonal assortments, the campaign reinforces Crocs’ distinctive blend of comfort, style and personalization across every consumer touchpoint.    About Crocs, Inc. Crocs, Inc. (Nasdaq: CROX), headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, is a world leader in innovative casual footwear for all, combining comfort and style with a value that consumers know and love. The Company’s brands include Crocs and HEYDUDE, and its products are sold in more than 85 countries through wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels. For more information on Crocs, Inc. visit investors.crocs.com. To learn more about our brands, visit www.crocs.com or www.heydude.com. Individuals can also visit https://investors.crocs.com/news-and-events/ and follow both Crocs and HEYDUDE on their social platforms. 

While other brands are chasing the breakeven point, RediClinic, a startup based out of Hyderabad has set a new benchmark in growing a D2C brand from the ground up. RediClinic is a natural supplement brand which is thriving in the Indian nutraceutical market without any investment, as of yet. The brand started off with the aim to provide actual supplements instead of weak and poorly made nutraceuticals that are in the market.   RediClinic’s exponential growth within 8 months, creating a new benchmark in the D2C market   In India, less than 4% of D2C brands actually make it to a profitable point within the first 3 years. However, with exquisite market strategy and GTM strategy that aimed exactly for the audience that would buy the product, RediClinic has actually created a case study in understanding consumer behaviour and buyer psychology.   The team claims, “There are no limitations to brands and their growth. Everything is possible if you connect with the consumer in the right way”. With this kind of a mindset, RediClinic is set to break the valuation of 100CR by the end of the next financial year. Already at the milestone of 60CR+, the brand is relentless with only one objective in mind: Creating supplements that actually help. Their hero product – Diacontrol, has already become the talk of the town among many tier 1 and tier 2 geographic locations.   We have cumulatively listed out the brand journey, which can also be studied as a case study for D2C growth in India. The brand faces some of the legacy players in the industry like Dabur and other brands in the D2C space like Wellbeing Nutrition, but their ability to close down on a certain segment has proven to be the most important factor that has helped the brand to grow its consumer base without extra marketing cost. Their branding also entices the premium segment and without any doubt resonates with the audience that it aims to reach.   Why is RediClinic Growing at the speed of light? The prime reason for RediClinic’s growth is their product. They literally have customers who would buy the product without the packaging because of the veritable results that their products give. There are many other reasons like their service, personalized outreach and taking account of every customer concern. Their product is probably one of the only nutraceuticals that are going for a clinical trial. Hence, buying from RediClinic is buying with trust and living with confidence, all encapsulated with pure ingredients and verified formulation.   So, when you buy a RediClinic product, you don’t only buy a supplement – You buy Trust!   RediClinic has actually stemmed from the very need of the founder, where he wanted to help his father by battling diabetes. Looking for the right natural support, going through formulations from across the globe, he finally came across research and a formulation that has been used in several countries like the US and Uganda, where diabetes remission is being studied at length.   To Conclude with Confidence In the Indian D2C space, getting to the pinnacle is a struggle, but with products like RediClinic’s, we can be assured that the consumer market can be conquered. All it took was 8 months for them to grow up to 26x of revenue; with a steady growth rate of 35% every month. Their strategy can be studied, implemented and understood to encourage D2C growth.

Ai+ Smartphone today announced festive pricing for the Nova and Pulse series on Flipkart’s Big Billion Days 2026. Starting at Rs. 8,999*, the lineup brings clean design, lasting power, and everyday performance – built in India, powered by NxtQuantum OS.   BBD price Reveal   Nova and Pulse are designed for how people actually use their phones: long days, clear cameras, smooth displays, and prices that stay within reach. From Pulse 2 to Nova 2 Ultra, and NovaFlip for those who want something new, every model is a reason to upgrade – not a compromise.   The Nova and Pulse series Pulse 2 — Rs. 8,999 · 6000mAh · 50MP AI camera Pulse 2 FE — Rs. 8,999* · MediaTek G81 · 50MP Nova 2 5G — Rs. 11,999 · 6000mAh · 50MP AI · dual 5G Nova 2 Neo 5G — Rs. 12,999 · Dimensity 6300 · Sony IMX582 Nova 2 Power 5G — Rs. 15,999* / Rs. 16,999* · 7000mAh · dual-colour design Nova 2 Pro 5G — Rs. 16,999* / Rs. 17,999* · Dimensity 7100 Nova 2 Ultra 5G — Rs. 18,999* · 1.5K AMOLED · IP68 · Dimensity 7400 NovaFlip 5G — Rs. 49,999 · foldable · dual AMOLED · 50MP   *Including bank offers. Offers valid while stocks last. Available for a limited period on Flipkart during Big Billion Days 2026.   About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered, and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.   About Ai+ Smartphone Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.   From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

MSMEs must move faster in adopting quality processes and build quality into every stage of their operations, from design and manufacturing to delivery, to become stronger contributors to India’s global competitiveness, emerged as a key message on Day 2 of the third edition of the IFQM Symposium 2026 in New Delhi.   Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India with GC members of IFQM   The second day of the symposium focused on translating the quality and innovation agenda into action, with discussions around strengthening MSME capabilities, building industry–academia partnerships, developing talent and leveraging technology to improve productivity and competitiveness. As part of this effort, IFQM announced plans to roll out a leadership programme for MSMEs and subsequently extend a similar programme to large industries, with a focus on sharing best practices, reducing waste, improving quality and driving innovation through education and continuous learning.   Delivering the keynote address on “Wings of Viksit Bharat: Transforming India into a Global Aviation Hub,” Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, emphasised the need to strengthen India’s aviation manufacturing ecosystem and develop capabilities across the supply chain.   He said, “The ultimate goal is to make aircraft in India. The government is committed to providing policy support for the aviation sector, especially for MRO. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set a target of 350 airports by 2047; we are working to achieve it. But we need to strengthen aviation manufacturing in India. The industry needs to understand the importance of material quality; we need more people and more clusters; we also need skilling, from design to the factory floor. It has to be reflected in the Indian aviation sector.”   The Minister also called upon global OEMs to bring together their supply-chain partners and MSMEs through collective industry forums. He urged companies such as Boeing and Airbus, etc to lead discussions with Indian MSMEs on the requirements of the aviation industry, noting that clarity on product and quality specifications would enable MSMEs to better plan, innovate, design and manufacture to global standards. He also highlighted the role that institutions such as IFQM can play in facilitating this collaboration.   IFQM, established by a consortium of India’s leading enterprises, is an industry-led movement committed to catalysing Indian organisations to become globally competitive and export-capable through Quality, Innovation and Excellence. The Foundation is focused on strengthening the capabilities of Indian industry, including MSMEs, through initiatives that promote quality, innovation and sustainable development in line with the nation-first objectives of Viksit Bharat.   From Quality Intent To Measurable Action The two-day symposium brought together senior industry leaders, policymakers, global quality experts, CEOs, CXOs, academia and MSMEs to explore how India can leverage its scale, technology and human capital to build globally competitive enterprises.   In his concluding remarks, Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, IFQM, emphasised that quality must become a personal commitment across leadership and organisations. He said, “Our shared responsibility is to build India’s reputation and make it synonymous with Quality. Quality must be a personal commitment from the leaders. Change begins at the top. To build a world-class company, innovation has to be continuous; follow the standards. Be willing to make mistakes and learn to correct them quickly. Daily discipline has to be part of the work.”   Highlighting the critical role of MSMEs in India’s growth, he added, “MSMEs are the foundation of any country, and vibrant MSMEs are key to the country’s success. IFQM’s single-minded purpose is to make 5,000 MSMEs part of quality and innovation and to become part of a nationwide movement. Caring and sharing is a critical journey. Our commitment is to make quality a habit; it should start at home.”   Mr. Soumitra Bhattacharya, CEO and Director, IFQM, highlighted the organisation’s ambition to scale its MSME engagement and turn collective industry participation into measurable action. He said, “We create USPs and turn plans into action. We had 200-plus MSMEs; we are looking at 500-plus, and the next target is 1,000-plus MSMEs. How can we use our members and non-members as force multipliers? We need to create a burning platform and work together, contribute, cooperate and participate.”   Mr. T.V. Narendran, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Steel, emphasised the need to build momentum and a critical mass around quality. He said, “We need to create momentum, create a critical mass, and the mindset. Industry-academia tango has to happen for real success and quality in the MSME ecosystem. To build a quality culture, we need to go beyond CEOs; there are many ways to influence it.”   Mr. K.N. Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Company, stressed the need to accelerate the transformation of MSMEs into process-driven organisations. He said, “I believe there is a lot to do. As an example, how to transform the 132 MSMEs that TVS Motors has released, in the next 90 days. Transforming Indian companies to be process-driven. Intensify the CEO connect sessions; the more we share, the more we achieve.”   Building Quality and Governance Across Sectors Day 2 featured four keynote addresses that explored how organisations can strengthen their understanding of customers, challenge existing systems and processes, and use both successes and failures as opportunities to improve quality.   The discussions brought together industry leaders around themes including “Creating Force Multipliers for the Industry-led Movement,” “Quality to Credibility: Building Trust at Global Scale,” “Instilling a Culture of Quality Excellence: Boardroom to Shopfloor,” “From Incremental to Breakthrough: Reimagining Kaizen at Scale,” “Deploying AI for Manufacturing and Services,” and “Strengthening Partnerships Globally.”   Dr. Masahiko Mori, President & Group CEO, DMG MORI, highlighted the importance of understanding customer needs and using real-world data to improve products and solutions. He said, “Customers’ culture is also important, and understanding it is key to acquiring and retaining customers. Gathering data from the customer site is very critical. Using the data, the company can customise the software for customers’ requirements.”   Speaking on the importance of leadership commitment

Sapthagiri NPS University (SNPSU) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google to introduce an Agentic AI programme, marking a significant step in the university’s efforts to bring emerging AI technologies into mainstream higher education. The university describes the initiative as the first university-level Agentic AI programme in Karnataka in partnership with Google Cloud.   MOU Signing & File Exchange between SNPSU and Google Cloud, with Shanoop, Head, Google AI GTM, India, and G. D. Manoj, Pro-Chancellor, SNPSU   The collaboration is aimed at strengthening AI education, research and industry engagement by giving students exposure to emerging technologies and practical applications of intelligent systems. It also seeks to build capabilities that enable students and faculty to engage meaningfully with the rapidly evolving field of AI.   Speaking at the MoU signing, Shanoop, Head, Google AI GTM, India, said, the collaboration represents the beginning of a broader vision for technology-led education. He highlighted the potential of the initiative to serve as a model for progressive institutions looking to integrate emerging technologies into academic learning and prepare students for an increasingly AI-driven world.   G. D. Manoj, Pro-Chancellor, SNPSU, emphasized the need to view AI not merely through the lens of its impact on employment, but as a powerful tool for extending human capability. He noted that educational institutions have an important role to play in helping students understand AI, use it responsibly and harness its potential to create meaningful solutions for society.   Reinforcing the importance of integrating AI across disciplines, Dr. Jayanthi V,Vice Chancellor, SNPSU, highlighted the growing relevance of emerging technologies across higher education, including medicine and allied health sciences. She pointed to applications of AI in areas such as research, diagnostics, teaching and learning, and emphasized the need to embed AI capabilities within curricula while simultaneously strengthening faculty development, student training, research and innovation.   The partnership brings together Google Cloud, Google for Education and Google AI expertise, creating opportunities to connect academic learning with industry knowledge, technology platforms and real-world applications. Navisha Prabhakar, Regional Head – South, Google for Education, highlighted the role of technology-enabled education in helping institutions and learners respond to the changing demands of the future.   For SNPSU, the collaboration is part of a larger institutional effort to build a stronger foundation for AI education, research, innovation and industry collaboration. Dr. H. Ramakrishna, Registrar, SNPSU, Dr. Prashanth Kumar H. P., Director – Marketing, SNPSU and Shashank K R, Director – Admissions, SNPSU, were part of the university leadership supporting the initiative and its broader institutional vision.   The industry dimension of the collaboration is further strengthened through the participation of Surya Nigam – Google, and the CloudReign team, bringing technology expertise and industry perspectives into the partnership.   Deshmukh Omkar, OSD – Tech Partnerships, SNPSU, has been closely involved in developing the university’s technology partnerships and in strengthening the institution’s engagement with emerging technology ecosystem.   The MoU signing ceremony was held at Google Bengaluru-Ananta campus, in the presence of Dr. A. M. Nagaraja, Registrar – Evaluation, SNPSU and Dr. Mahendrababu, Dean, SoET, SNPSU; along with senior representatives from SNPSU, Google for Education and CloudReign.   The collaboration marks an important step in SNPSU’s vision to create an academic environment where emerging technologies are not simply studied, but actively explored, applied and developed through education, research and industry engagement.   Building the next chapter of AI-led education The Agentic AI programme is envisioned as the starting point of a broader initiative at Sapthagiri NPS University—one that brings together learning, research, industry expertise and innovation to prepare students to participate meaningfully in an AI-driven world.   For SNPSU, the partnership represents more than the introduction of a new programme. It is a move towards making emerging technology an integral part of the university experience and creating a stronger bridge between what students learn today and the technologies shaping tomorrow.

The Sennheiser brand in India today announces the launch of MOMENTUM 5 Wireless headphones and the MOMENTUM True Wireless 5, the most capable and user-focused evolution of the acclaimed audio lineup yet. The newest MOMENTUM series preserves the category-defining sound and battery performance of the platinum-selling line while introducing meaningful enhancements to elevate everyday listening for the modern audio enthusiast.   Introducing MOMENTUM 5 Series in India: Your Sound Revelation Starts Here   MOMENTUM 5 Wireless: The True Sound Revelation The Sennheiser brand’s newest portable powerhouse is an escape into high-fidelity sound, enriched with spatial audio and a suite of sophisticated capabilities. Sennheiser’s category-defining over-ear headphone is powered by HD 600-inspired 42mm drivers, delivering pure audiophile detail with Dolby Atmos spatial tracking and Lossless codec support.   “With MOMENTUM 5 Wireless, we focused on refining the entire experience without straying from the formula that made its predecessor such a success.” Said Mr. Saahil Kumar, Country Head, Sennheiser (Consumer), India. “These enhancements enrich the overall functionality while still capturing the magic you feel every time you press play.”    Key Highlights – MOMENTUM 5 Wireless: HD 600-inspired 42mm drivers with Dolby Atmos spatial tracking and Lossless codec support 8-microphone hybrid ANC system, up to 3x stronger midrange noise suppression over MOMENTUM 4 Ongoing firmware updates to DSP and wireless engines for continually improving performance Unmatched 57-hour battery life with fast charging User-replaceable batteries and ear pads, eliminating product obsolescence Carrying case redesigned to be 20% flatter, with 16% less overall packaging Available in Black and Denim, with White, Bronze and Lavender coming soon   MOMENTUM True Wireless 5: Flagship Performance, Compact Form MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 brings uncompromised audiophile sound into a compact earbud profile, with TrueResponse transducers delivering 24-bit/96kHz high-res audio and Dolby Atmos 3D sound. A Hybrid Adaptive ANC system dynamically counters both ambient noise and wind, while Natural Transparency keeps listeners connected to their surroundings when needed.   Speaking about the MOMENTUM True Wireless 5, he further said, “We set out to bring the larger-than-life sound and connected technology of the MOMENTUM series into a remarkably compact format. From its exquisite audio reproduction to the advanced hardware powering, it all, MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 represents our most advanced integration of audio technology in an earbud.”   Key Highlights — MOMENTUM True Wireless 5: All-new design – Improved comfort, stability, and portability User-replaceable batteries – Easily refresh your run-time even years from now Optimized for Dolby Atmos® – Head-tracking unlocks immersive entertainment Improved voice calls & ANC – Voice accelerometer, expanded mic array, and AI speech enhancement Bluetooth® 6.0 – Prioritizes fast and stable connections Smart Control Plus – a new 8-band EQ highlights an assortment of customizable features in the free app Available in Graphite, Cream, Copper, Denim and Lavender   Signature Performance MOMENTUM 5 Wireless carries forward the acclaimed 42mm transducer from its predecessor, meticulously manufactured at Sennheiser’s state-of-the-art facility in Tullamore, Ireland, and inspired by the famed HD 600-series headphones for full-bodied sound with dynamic bass. It further advances its sonic capabilities with Hi-Res Audio certification and Snapdragon Sound™ technology with support for aptX™ Lossless. The MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 brings the same sound-first DNA to an in-ear form factor with Sennheiser’s signature 7mm TrueResponse dynamic transducer, also developed and manufactured in Tullamore, Ireland, alongside Bluetooth 6.0 with aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless support for high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz.   Total Immersion The newest MOMENTUM models pair rich sound with advanced noise cancellation and immersive spatial audio. MOMENTUM 5 Wireless features supercharged ANC that is up to three times more effective at reducing distracting voice chatter, with four microphones per side improving noise reduction and call quality. MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 features adaptive hybrid ANC, automatic anti-wind mode and a four-microphone array, while its eight-sensor system with AI-powered speech extraction enhances voice clarity in noisy environments. Both models are optimized for Dolby Atmos® with interactive head-tracking for an immersive, theater-like listening experience.   Refreshingly Responsible MOMENTUM 5 Wireless delivers up to 57 hours of battery life with ANC engaged and introduces a user-replaceable 700 mAh battery, allowing owners to refresh the power cell in minutes using only a small Phillips-head screwdriver, helping extend the headphones’ usable life without impacting acoustic performance. MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 extends the same longevity-focused approach with user-replaceable batteries in both the earbuds and charging case, offering up to 12 hours of playback per charge and up to 40 hours with the case. Both models also support quick charging, while MOMENTUM 5 Wireless features a 20% flatter carrying case and plastic-free packaging.   Ergonomic Evolution MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 features a redesigned, aerodynamic and fin-free housing developed using data from thousands of unique ear models, with 73% of testers rating it more comfortable than the previous generation. The earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat and splash resistance, while the micro-perforated acoustic mic plate helps reduce wind interference. Its redesigned charging case offers a narrower, pocket-friendly profile, while MOMENTUM 5 Wireless includes both USB-C and 3.5mm audio cables for added everyday versatility.   “Balancing our signature high-fidelity acoustics, advanced performance, and long-term usability is at the heart of the new MOMENTUM experience. With MOMENTUM 5 Wireless, our user-swappable battery, adaptable hardware, and compact, plastic-free packaging demonstrate that high-performance sound and environmental responsibility can, and must, exist in the same product. With MOMENTUM True Wireless 5, we are bringing flagship performance to a compact form factor while introducing a replaceable battery designed to extend the life of the product. Across both products, we are proving that cutting-edge audio does not have to come at the expense of longevity, giving listeners products they can enjoy for years to come,” concluded Mr. Saahil Kumar, Country Head, Sennheiser (Consumer), India.   Pricing, Offers and Availability MOMENTUM 5 Wireless will be available in India at a launch price of INR 39,990, while MOMENTUM True Wireless 5 will be available at INR 29,990. Pre-orders for both products begin on September 24, 2026, across Sennheiser’s official

India’s ambition to become a globally competitive, self-reliant and innovation-led economy must be underpinned by a strong culture of quality, innovation and excellence, emerged as a key message on Day 1 of the third edition of the IFQM Symposium 2026 in New Delhi. Bringing together senior industry leaders, policymakers, global quality experts, CEOs, CXOs and academia, the symposium explored how India can leverage its scale, technology and human capital to build globally competitive institutions and enterprises.   Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister for Communications & Development of North-Eastern Region, Government of India with GC members of IFQM Delivering the keynote address on “Powering Viksit Bharat – Scale without Boundaries to Advance Development through Technology, Digital Innovation and Inclusive Connectivity,” Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia – Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India said that the world will soon look to India to learn about quality, innovation and self-reliance. He highlighted the role of initiatives such as IFQM in taking India forward towards Viksit Bharat@2047 and strengthening the country’s journey towards Atmanirbharta. IFQM, established by a consortium of India’s leading enterprises, is an industry-led movement committed to catalysing Indian organisations to become globally competitive and export-capable through Quality, Innovation and Excellence. The Foundation is focused on strengthening the capabilities of Indian industry, including MSMEs, through initiatives that promote quality, innovation and sustainable development in line with the nation-first objectives of Viksit Bharat. Speaking at the symposium, Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, Tata Sons, highlighted India’s progress in building sustainable, world-class infrastructure and institutions. He said, “India has made tremendous progress in developing sustainable world-class infrastructure and institutions. Our economy is doing very well, and over the last few years it has exceeded expectations. Achieving this amid global economic uncertainty is no mean task. It was possible because of infrastructure growth, manufacturing, especially precision manufacturing and investment in human process (education and skill development).” Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. S.N. Subrahmanyan, Chairman & Managing Director, Larsen & Toubro, focused on the importance of making quality a culture across organisations. He said, “In infrastructure, doing projects with quality is critical. We are still not there yet; there is a lot to learn from global practices. Hopefully, initiatives like IFQM will help us reach that level of excellence. Personally, I can share many examples, and each one contributes to the lessons we need to achieve quality. Every employee has to be involved. It’s not just about quality; it’s about innovation. Quality has to be a culture; I think that will make it happen.” Recognising Excellence in Quality and Governance A key highlight of Day 1 was the recognition of Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, IFQM, by the International Academy for Quality (IAQ) with the Marcos E. J. Bertin Quality in Governance Medal, recognising his contribution to advancing sound governance through quality principles and methods. The honour was presented by Mr. Sunil Sinha, Trustee, IAQ, and Mr. Raúl Molteni, President, IAQ. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Raul Molteni, President – International Academy for Quality highlighted IAQ’s vision of moving beyond traditional quality management towards “quality for humanity”, and underscored India’s growing importance in advancing this agenda. He noted that Indian companies have demonstrated that Total Quality Management (TQM) can be implemented at scale and evolve into a broader movement. Mr. Sinha emphasised the importance of recognising leaders who have embedded quality into the way organisations are managed and governed. Reflecting on TVS Motor Company’s quality journey, Mr. Venu Srinivasan recalled how Japanese quality experts helped strengthen the company’s focus on TQM more than three decades ago. He emphasised that the Deming Prize should not be viewed as the destination, but as the beginning of an organisation’s TQM journey. He noted that the journey extends beyond processes and practices to building trust with stakeholders, highlighting the responsibility that comes with good governance. IFQM and karlsruhe institute of technology (kit) join hands to strengthen industry–academia collaboration Further strengthening its focus on knowledge, research and capability building, IFQM and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) formalised a new collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the symposium. Mr. Soumitra Bhattacharya, CEO and Director, IFQM, exchanged the MoU with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Gisela Lanza, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, in the presence of Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor Company. The collaboration will strengthen cooperation in quality and innovation and reflects a shared ambition to embed these principles more deeply into the systems and processes that drive industry. The partnership will also advance IFQM’s focus on industry–academia collaboration, connecting academic research and expertise with the evolving needs of Indian industry. Taking the quality conversation across sectors Day 1 featured six panel discussions that brought together industry leaders and MSMEs to examine the challenges and opportunities across sectors and demonstrate how quality and innovation can create measurable impact. The discussions included “Pharma & Life Sciences: Moving Beyond Generics – Pioneering Global Leadership in Innovative Medicine”; “From Scale to Excellence: Reimagining Infrastructure for India’s Global Leadership”; “IFQM as Force Multiplier – Measurable Impact Across Sectors”; “Humble Beginnings to Global Standards – The Force Multiplier Playbook”; and “Transforming India into a Trusted Global Electronics Hub.” The sessions also highlighted the experiences of MSMEs that have benefited from the IFQM initiative, showcasing how focused interventions in quality, technology, capability building and innovation can help businesses strengthen their competitiveness and move towards global standards. Day 1 also featured five keynote addresses exploring India’s Viksit Bharat ambition, quality and innovation, technology-led transformation, artificial intelligence and global competitiveness, including perspectives on China’s evolving role in the global economy. An exclusive CEO session, “Creating Force Multipliers for the Industry-led Movement – Boardroom Vision to Shop Floor Excellence,” brought together senior business leaders to examine the practices and organisational interventions that can translate boardroom vision into excellence on the shop floor. The session focused on how leadership commitment, employee participation, quality culture and innovation can work together to create sustainable and measurable impact across organisations. With its first day bringing together perspectives

The Appeal of Conscience Foundation presented Raj Subramaniam, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Corporation, with the Appeal of Conscience Award at the foundation’s 61st Annual Gala, at The Pierre Hotel in New York City.   Raj Subramaniam, President & CEO FedEx Corporation with Karen Schneier Dresbach, Executive Vice President, & Rabbi Arthur Schneier, Founder & President, Appeal of Conscience Foundation   As president and CEO of FedEx Corporation, Subramaniam leads one of the world’s largest transportation and logistics companies. A more than 35-year FedEx veteran, Subramaniam became the second CEO in the company’s history in 2022 after serving in a series of leadership roles across the global enterprise, including as President and Chief Operating Officer. His international leadership experience and focus on globalization have contributed to the success and transformation of FedEx, while his work outside the company has focused on advancing economic growth and global trade. In 2023, Subramaniam received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, the highest civilian honor presented by the President of India to members of the Indian diaspora in recognition of outstanding achievements in India and abroad.   “I am honored to receive the Appeal of Conscience Award from Rabbi Schneier and the Appeal of Conscience Foundation,” said Raj Subramaniam, president and CEO of FedEx. “At FedEx, we believe that connecting the world through trade and innovation does more than move goods – it builds bridges, fosters international cooperation, and brings communities closer together. We are committed to leveraging our global reach to build a more connected and unified world.”   Through its global network, FedEx connects businesses and economies, enabling trade and creating pathways for businesses to reach markets around the world. In India, FedEx continues to strengthen its infrastructure and capabilities, supporting Indian businesses in accessing international markets and participating in global trade.   “Raj Subramaniam is being recognized for his international visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to connecting people worldwide through innovation and service,” said Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation. “Under his stewardship, FedEx has advanced a culture of social and global responsibility and international cooperation that reflects ACF’s mission.”   Previous Honorees The ACF has recognized prominent business leaders and public figures with the Appeal of Conscience Award including: Bernard Arnault, Mary Barra, Barbara Bush, Michael Bloomberg, Albert Bourla, Archbishop Elpidophoros, Robert Iger, Muhtar Kent, Coretta Scott King, Robert Kraft, Brian Moynihan, Virginia Rometty, Stephen A. Schwarzman, Masayoshi Son, Paul Volcker, Timotheus Höttges, Stephen M. Ross, Susan Wojcicki, Dr. Rong Yiren, Dr. Henry Kissinger, Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Tony Elumelu.