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Rustomjee Group, one of Mumbai’s most trusted real estate developers, has partnered with the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport to support the Kawale Check Dam project in Vikramgad Taluka, Palghar District, Maharashtra. The project, which will be inaugurated on June 7, 2026, is expected to improve water security, boost agricultural productivity, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for nearly 1,800 farming families across 18 villages. Developed as a long-term water resilience solution, the check dam is designed to capture and conserve rainwater, addressing the region’s persistent challenge of water scarcity despite seasonal rainfall abundance.   Rustomjee Partners with Rotary Club of Bombay Airport to Advance Water Security and Sustainable Livelihoods in Palghar   As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable community development, Rustomjee is supporting this transformative initiative in a tribal belt of Maharashtra where limited year-round water availability has constrained livelihoods and agricultural growth. The dam is expected to store water for nearly two kilometres upstream, enabling groundwater recharge and improving access to water throughout the year. Implemented with active community participation, the project promotes local ownership while helping ensure its long-term sustainability and impact.   With a total project investment of approximately Rs. 70.58 lakh, the initiative represents a collaborative effort between development stakeholders, local communities, and institutional partners to create lasting impact through sustainable water infrastructure. The project has been designed not only to address immediate water needs but also to generate long-term social, economic, and environmental benefits for the region.   Commenting on the initiative, Mrs. Namrata Nulwalla, Chief Sustainability Officer, Rustomjee Group said, “At Rustomjee, we believe meaningful sustainability is rooted in creating lasting impact for communities. Water security remains one of the most critical enablers of economic resilience and social progress, particularly in rural regions where livelihoods are closely linked to natural resources. The Kawale Check Dam project demonstrates the power of collaborative, impact-driven interventions in addressing systemic challenges while creating opportunities for growth and self-reliance.   Being a Rotarian with the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, I have seen firsthand the impact that collaborative, purpose-driven initiatives can create. Through its support of the Kawale Check Dam project, Rustomjee aims to contribute to the development of resilient rural ecosystems that generate long-term social, economic, and environmental value. This initiative reflects our broader commitment to sustainable development through solutions that are community-led, scalable, and built to create lasting change. “   Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Pragna Mehta, President of Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, said, “The Kawale Check Dam project is a powerful example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared purpose and a long-term vision for community development. At the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, we strongly believe that sustainable change begins by addressing fundamental needs, and water security remains one of the most critical enablers of health, livelihoods, education and economic progress.   We are deeply grateful to Rustomjee Group for its generous and visionary support towards this transformative initiative. More than a water conservation structure, the Kawale Check Dam has the potential to become a lifeline for local tribal and farming communities, driving socio-economic development, strengthening livelihoods, supporting year-round agricultural activity, and contributing to environmental restoration through groundwater recharge and ecosystem preservation.   Our partnership with Rustomjee reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful and enduring impact. What makes this initiative particularly significant is that it is not merely an infrastructure project, but a community-led effort designed to strengthen resilience, empower local communities and create opportunities for future generations.   By combining Rotary’s ethos of Service Above Self with Rustomjee’s commitment to responsible development, we hope to create a model of collaboration that delivers lasting social, economic and environmental value for the region. This project truly embodies the spirit of ‘Together We Rise’ and ‘Unite for Good’, demonstrating how purpose-driven partnerships can create lasting change for generations to come.”   Through initiatives such as this, Rustomjee continues to advance its commitment to creating value beyond real estate by strengthening communities, promoting environmental stewardship, and contributing meaningfully to India’s sustainable development goals.   About Rustomjee Group Incorporated in 1995, Rustomjee Group (Keystone Realtors Limited) is one of the prominent MMR based real estate developers and a leader in the redevelopment space. The company has a substantial portfolio of projects spanning the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), with 39 Completed Projects, 17 Ongoing Projects and 21 Forthcoming Projects that cover all price points from Mass Market to Luxury. So far, the company has delivered over 29+ million square feet of construction area, with a pipeline of over 46 million square feet of construction area in the works. A strategic asset-light approach, an integrated real estate development model, and a strong eye for quality and detail gives the Company’s management team an edge over its peers. By successfully housing 19000+ families including re-housing 1900+ existing families through several redevelopment projects, the company has detailed understanding of (re)development process and is committed to generating value for all its stakeholders.

AI has not just changed how people search. It has changed who answers. And for the first time, that answer is not a list of links – it is a single response, generated by a model, citing sources it has chosen to trust. For enterprise brands, that shift is not coming. It has arrived.   Industry leaders and marketing executives at INDEX’26 New York, Pepper’s summit focused on the future of AI-driven search and brand discovery That was the ground truth at INDEX’26 New York, hosted by Pepper on May 27. More than 200 CMOs, VPs of Marketing, growth leaders, investors, and technology builders convened for the New York edition of what Pepper bills as the world’s first The GEO Growth Summit – a forum built not to debate whether generative AI is disrupting search, but to determine what winning looks like on the other side of that disruption. The results were unambiguous. Across every conversation – from the boardroom to the brand team – the same inflection point kept surfacing: organic discovery has been structurally rewired, and the strategies that drove growth for the past decade are losing their footing fast. CAC is climbing. Traditional SEO signals are weakening. Buyer journeys now fracture across seven or more touchpoints before a decision is made. And through all of it, AI models are forming opinions about brands – from reviews, citations, third-party content, and web authority – long before a human ever enters a search bar. “INDEX was created to bring together operators who are actively rethinking how growth works in a world where AI has become the primary interface for discovery. Search is no longer about ranking pages – it is about being retrieved, cited, and trusted by AI systems. INDEX’26 is where leaders come together to understand this shift and build practical strategies to win in the new era,” said Anirudh Singla, Co-Founder & CEO, Pepper. The urgency extended well beyond the marketing function. Investors and board members, as surfaced in one of the day’s most candid conversations, are already asking their portfolio companies about AI search visibility – often without the CMO in the room. For enterprise leadership teams, the message was pointed: Generative Engine Optimization is no longer a content team initiative. It has become a business continuity question. That reality landed differently for regulated industries. In financial services, the stakes of AI getting it wrong go beyond brand damage. A misattributed claim, a hallucinated product detail, an AI-generated answer that contradicts compliance policy – these are not PR problems. They are regulatory ones. Leaders from DTCC and Arbor Realty Trust gave texture to what it means to navigate brand authority in an environment where no single team controls what an AI says about you. “I think of myself as much more of an operations and architect of the department than a traditional marketer. We’ve gone from Chief Marketing Officer to Chief Architect,” said Lauren Wagner Boyman, CMO, KPMG US. The CMO role itself was on trial. Lauren Wagner Boyman of KPMG US and Drew Neisser of CMO Huddles – drawing on data from more than 600 CMO conversations – made the case that the function has been permanently restructured. Speed, agility, and content efficiency have displaced traditional brand stewardship as the core mandate. Consumer brand leaders from Uber, Unilever, Major League Soccer, and Samsung Ads confirmed the same pattern from a different angle: when AI compresses buyer choice to a single recommendation, the brand that wins is the one the model has learned to trust, not the one with the biggest media budget. “The physical shelf had 100 options. E-commerce became endless but we shop above the fold – so 100 became 5. AI-led search is about to compress 5 into 1. You want to be that one – every time, in every platform,” said Deepak Subramanian, Global VP Marketing, Unilever. Pepper used the summit to unveil Atlas, its agentic OS for organic growth – positioned not as a GEO tool but as an outcome engine built to own traffic, citations, velocity, and pipeline in the AI era. Guy Yalif of Webflow separately debuted the AEO Maturity Model, grounded in data from millions of B2B websites, giving attendees a diagnostic framework to benchmark where their organizations actually stand. Practitioners from RocketReach, Optimizely, Stacker, and G2 closed the day with a ground-level view of what is working inside the GEO stack right now. INDEX’26 New York follows the sold-out San Francisco edition in April, which drew more than 200 senior leaders from Salesforce, NVIDIA, Intel, Snowflake, Gong, and Demandbase. Future editions of the summit are planned for additional markets.

Hong Kong To welcome the peak summer travel season, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will launch a brand-new promotion, “Hong Kong Summer Fun”, from June 19, 2026 connecting a series of citywide highlight events and enticing offers to energise the summer season. The HKTB will work with the business community to roll out a wide range of offers covering attractions, dining, transportation and shopping, enhancing Hong Kong’s appeal as a summer destination, attracting more overnight visitors and boosting overall spending.   From dragon boats to dining deals, Hong Kong invites the world to its most vibrant summer ever   Kicking off the summer season will be the 50th-anniversary edition of the “Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races,” organised by the HKTB, co-organised by the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association (HKCDBA), and proudly title-sponsored by Sun Life. The event will be fully upgraded into the “Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival” and will debut at the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade this month.   HKTB Chairman Dr Peter Lam said, “The summer holidays are a golden period for travel, and with a wave of mega events this summer, the HKTB is proud to present the new summer promotion ‘Hong Kong Summer Fun’, leveraging different events to strengthen promotion and partnering with the business community to roll out hundreds of thousands of offers covering attraction, dining, transport and shopping. We aim to attract more overnight visitors to Hong Kong and boost consumption across more sectors. As the headline international flagship event of ‘Hong Kong Summer Fun’, the ‘Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival’ not only runs over a longer period, but also features a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment programme than in previous years, offering an experience found only in Hong Kong for locals and visitors, while showcasing Hong Kong’s position as the Events Capital of Asia.”   Kicking Off the Summer Season: Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival Debuts in an Upgraded Format   Over 220 Dragon Boat Teams from Around the World Compete in Victoria Harbour This year’s races will be held on 27 to 28 June, with the number of participating teams, countries and regions higher than last year. Teams from 16 countries and regions will take part, including the Chinese Mainland, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Qatar and Indonesia. Over 220 teams and more than 4,500 athletes will compete in 21 races. Special “50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup” Preserves the Traditional Spirit of Dragon Boat Racing First held in 1976 by the then Hong Kong Tourist Association (the predecessor of the HKTB), the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races began as competitions among fishermen’s dragon boats in the Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter. They have since developed into a unique international mega event in Hong Kong, bringing together top teams from around the world in Victoria Harbour and integrating sport, culture and entertainment.   This year, the “50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup” has been introduced, inviting six local fishermen teams from areas such as Aberdeen and Chai Wan to compete using traditional wooden dragon boats. In addition, a new “50th Anniversary Championship” has been added, bringing together champions from nine major race categories to compete for the title of “Ultimate Dragon Boat Champion”.   Extended to 13 Days with Double the Dragon Boat Festival Excitement For the first time, the Dragon Boat Festival held at the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade will be extended to 13 days (19 June to 1 July), spanning from 19 June (Dragon Boat Festival) to 1 July to encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy a cultural experience that blends tradition and modernity.   The Avenue of Stars will feature a Dragon Boat Food Lane, complemented by four themed photo spots: Sun Life HK Dragon Boat Co-Creation Zone, a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat; a dragon boat-themed installation in collaboration with the new film Minions & Monsters; and a Giant Coca-Cola® Bottle and Dragon Boat-themed Photo Spot. Together, these elements offer a new festive experience for locals and visitors. The festival will also debut a series of intangible cultural heritage workshops, where visitors can experience activities such as fishing net plaiting, blown sugar making and lye rice dumpling making. Visitors can experience dragon boat racing through virtual reality (VR), using innovative technology to explore this traditional festival. On weekends and public holidays, there will be a vibrant lineup of intangible cultural heritage performances, including Wing Chun, diabolo, ruan and guzheng. As evening falls, the atmosphere will come alive with a series of live music performances. In addition, a dedicated live broadcast viewing zone will allow both the public and visitors to watch the thrilling action of the Victoria Harbour races up close.   The Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival has received support from 14 sponsors. The HKTB has also partnered with the Tsim Sha Tsui East Property Developers Association, collaborating with over 30 shops to roll out hotel, dining and shopping offers during the festival period to boost spending in the area.   “Hong Kong Summer Fun” Offers Hundreds of Thousands of Deals to Attract Overnight Visitors and Boost Spending   Exclusive Travel Packages Featuring Attraction Tickets and Transport Discounts During the “Hong Kong Summer Fun” promotion period, the HKTB will collaborate with Trip.com Group, the Quality Tourism Services Association (QTSA), the Hong Kong Retail Management Association (HKRMA), Alipay, and various merchants to launch “Summer Deals,” offering hundreds of thousands of offers.   The offers start the moment visitors begin planning their trip to Hong Kong. The HKTB will partner with Trip.com Group to launch promotions worth over HK USD 20 million, covering 19 local attractions and three transport operators. From 15 June to 31 August, visitors who book hotels in Hong Kong via Trip.com or Ctrip for the period from 1 July to 14 September, with a single transaction of HK USD 1,500 or above, will enjoy double rewards: one attraction

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water company, represented India at the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) Training Programme on Demonstration of EPR and Plastic Credit Systems in India held in Kathmandu, Nepal from 8–10 June 2026.   Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, represented India at the South Asian Cooperative Environment Program at Kathmandu Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International participated as a key resource person and industry representative, sharing India’s practical experience in implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging. The programme brought together government officials, ministers, regulators, producers, brand owners, recyclers, waste operators and sustainability experts from India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka to exchange knowledge and strengthen circular economy frameworks across South Asia. As part of the programme, Mr. Ganesh led a practitioner session titled “Experience Sharing: How Indian PIBOs Operate under EPR“, that provided first-hand insights into how Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs) navigate India’s evolving EPR ecosystem. The discussion covered registration and compliance management through the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) portal, engagement with recyclers, aggregators and Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs), documentation and verification processes, as well as practical challenges relating to data quality, recycler capacity, cost and regulatory compliance. The session formed part of the conference agenda focused on demonstrating India’s EPR framework and operational learnings for South Asian Nations exploring on strengthening similar systems.    Representatives from South Asian countries discussed circular economy frameworks at SACEP Mr. Ganesh also contributed to a high-level discussion on the alignment between EPR regulations and emerging plastic credit mechanisms, highlighting opportunities for collaboration between governments, industry and waste management stakeholders to accelerate circularity and improve plastic waste management outcomes across the region. Commenting on his participation, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, said, “Extended Producer Responsibility has emerged as one of the most important policy instruments for creating accountability, improving traceability and driving investment into waste management infrastructure. India’s EPR journey has generated valuable learnings on collaboration between producers, recyclers, regulators and the informal sector. Platforms such as SACEP provide an important opportunity for South Asian countries to share experiences, strengthen regional cooperation and accelerate the transition towards a circular economy. As sustainability challenges increasingly transcend borders, collective action and robust EPR frameworks will play a critical role in building resource-efficient and environmentally responsible societies.” Bisleri has consistently championed sustainable waste management practices through its initiatives in plastic circularity, recycling partnerships and responsible packaging. Through participation in regional and international forums, the company continues to contribute to policy dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaborative solutions that support a more sustainable future for the region. About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe, and healthy water. Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating a greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

91Wheels.com, in collaboration with Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited (MEAL), has successfully completed a landmark cross-border electric vehicle expedition from New Delhi, India, to Thimphu, Bhutan.   10 Mahindra Electric Origin SUVs travelled from New Delhi to Thimphu   The expedition saw a convoy of 10 Mahindra Electric Origin SUVs undertake the 1,850-kilometre journey to Bhutan’s capital, demonstrating the growing capability of electric mobility for long-distance and international travel. The achievement has been recognised by the India Book of Records as the “Largest EV Convoy on a Cross-Border International Road Trip.”   Adding to the significance of the expedition was the participation of real-world customers. Families, friends, siblings, and solo drivers joined the journey in a fleet comprising Mahindra XEV 9e, XEV 9S, and BE 6 electric SUVs, bringing together authentic ownership experiences across borders.   The drive showcased the long-distance touring capabilities of Mahindra’s INGLO EV platform, with participants covering diverse terrain and weather conditions while relying entirely on public and planned charging infrastructure. By successfully completing this demanding journey, the drive also helped build greater confidence for EV adoption in India, demonstrating that electric SUVs can support long-distance, intercity and cross-border travel with the right planning and charging access.   The convoy also visited Bhutan’s first Mahindra Electric Automobile showroom in Thimphu, marking a symbolic milestone for the brand’s international EV footprint.   Commenting on the achievement, Bunny Punia, Group Editor, 91Wheels.com, said, “At 91Wheels, we constantly push vehicles beyond conventional test conditions to understand their true capabilities. This New Delhi-to-Thimphu expedition showcased that modern electric vehicles are no longer limited by the myths that surround them. Crossing international borders, mountains and long highway stretches, the Mahindra Origin Electric SUVs and its customers proved that sustainable mobility is ready for real-world adventures.”   Reeti Nageshri, Head of Business Operations – Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, said, “People still ask if an EV can handle a real road trip. Our customers just answered that question by driving nearly 4,000 kilometres each across two countries, through extreme heat, mountain roads and changing terrain. The story here isn’t just the vehicles. It’s the confidence customers now have to go further than they ever thought possible.”   “At 91Wheels, our goal has always been to simplify personal mobility by helping consumers make informed decisions with confidence. In a category where trust plays a critical role, we continue to invest in expert-led content, technology-driven experiences, and unbiased guidance that empower millions of vehicle buyers across India. As mobility evolves, our focus remains on building a trusted ecosystem that puts the consumer first,” said Sunish Kumar, Founder, 91Wheels.   Route Overview Day 1: New Delhi – Agra – Lucknow – Gorakhpur (882 km) Day 2: Gorakhpur – Muzaffarpur – Siliguri (647 km) Day 3: Siliguri – Jaigaon – Phuentsholing (151 km) Day 4: Phuentsholing – Thimphu (170 km) Day 5: Thimphu – Paro – Thimphu (additional)   Collectively, the convoy covered nearly 40,000 kilometres by the time all participating customers returned to New Delhi, creating one of the most demanding real-world endurance demonstrations undertaken by customer-owned EVs in the region. Throughout the expedition, the electric SUVs were subjected to consecutive DC fast-charging sessions, temperatures reaching 47°C across the northern plains, and elevations approaching 9,000 feet, further highlighting their ability to handle demanding real-world conditions. The most meaningful border crossed on this journey, however, wasn’t India to Bhutan, but the one between belief and confidence.

Astera Ventures, an India-based advisory firm focused on researching and supporting high-growth emerging companies through strategic consulting and investments, today announced the appointment of Prashant Hoskote as a Non-Executive Director on its Board.   Prashant Hoskote   Hoskote brings over 35 years of expertise in customer experience and quality leadership. His appointment strengthens Astera Ventures’ board at a pivotal moment in its growth as a strategic enabler in the global hospitality sector.   Astera Ventures is a key shareholder in Sunday Proptech, a new-age hospitality owning and operating platform focused on building and scaling hotels under PRISM, parent of OYO, Townhouse, SUNDAY and other brands globally. Sunday Proptech already owns and operates 38 hotels across the US and is focused on rapid expansion across key markets including the US, India and Europe. The platform combines hospitality operations, real estate partnerships and brand-led growth to create high-quality guest experiences at scale.   Commenting on his appointment, Prashant Hoskote said, “I look forward to enabling strong governance and providing the right steer as Astera Ventures grows its portfolio and its key investment Sunday Proptech builds its next phase of growth in global hospitality. Astera Ventures plays an important role in this journey, and I am excited to contribute at the board level.”   Prashant Hoskote currently serves as CEO of PH Factor, a board advisory and organizational excellence consulting practice based in Delhi NCR, and was previously President – Global Engagements at Striking Ideas. Earlier in his career, he served as Senior Director – Quality, Service Excellence, and Innovation at Max India Group, and also held leadership roles at Mashreq Bank (Dubai), Standard Chartered Bank, and the Taj Group of Hotels. He began his career with Qimpro Consultants, the Indian affiliate of Juran Institute Inc., USA.   Prashant has served on the National Board for Quality Promotion at the Quality Council of India, as Vice-Chair of ASQ’s Quality Management Division – Global (Asia and Australia), and as Chairperson of ASQ’s Organizational Excellence Technical Committee. He was named among the “50 Most Talented Quality Professionals” at the World Quality Congress in 2014. He is also a published author and international speaker.

Galgotias University, in collaboration with L&T EduTech, has launched India’s First Advanced EV Centre of Excellence by L&T EduTech within a university campus to provide students with immersive, industry-grade exposure to next-generation electric mobility technologies and real-world automotive systems.   Students learn with live electric mobility systems, battery modules, and industry-grade EV technologies at the Advanced EV Centre by L&T EduTech at Galgotias University The state-of-the-art facility brings live electric vehicle technologies directly into the academic ecosystem through fully functional electric cars, electric two-wheelers, live battery packs and modules, battery management systems, EV powertrain technologies, charging infrastructure, controllers, motors, diagnostics platforms, and embedded mobility systems. Developed as an experiential learning and applied engineering environment, the Centre enables students to work directly on technologies currently shaping the future of transportation globally. Unlike conventional engineering laboratories that primarily rely on simulation-based learning, the Advanced EV Centre of Excellence allows students to engage hands-on with actual electric mobility platforms and industrial-grade components used across the EV ecosystem. Students will gain practical exposure to EV architecture, battery technologies, charging systems, diagnostics, thermal management, embedded systems, drivetrain integration, power electronics, vehicle communication systems, and sustainable mobility engineering. The collaboration with L&T EduTech integrates industry-aligned curriculum, experiential learning modules, specialised technical training, and application-oriented learning frameworks into the academic environment. The initiative is aimed at strengthening industry readiness and creating a future-ready talent pipeline for India’s rapidly expanding electric mobility and clean transportation sector. Dr Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer, Galgotias University, said, “The future of engineering education will be shaped by how closely universities integrate learning with real industry systems and emerging technologies. The Advanced EV Centre of Excellence developed with L&T EduTech gives students direct exposure to live electric mobility platforms, battery technologies, diagnostics, and industry-grade infrastructure that are defining the future of transportation globally. As India rapidly expands its electric mobility ecosystem, universities must move beyond conventional classroom models and create immersive, application-oriented environments that prepare students for high-impact innovation, research, and industry leadership.” The collaboration further builds on the growing partnership between Galgotias University and L&T EduTech. Earlier this year, L&T EduTech recognised Galgotias University as a Blue Chip Partner during L&T EduTech NEXUS 2026, acknowledging the University’s strong industry engagement, technology-led learning ecosystem, and continued focus on future-ready engineering education and innovation-driven academic collaboration. The facility strengthens the growing momentum around electric mobility, sustainable transportation, clean energy technologies, and advanced manufacturing. It is expected to support interdisciplinary learning and applied research across engineering, electronics, artificial intelligence, robotics, embedded systems, automotive technologies, and smart mobility solutions. The Centre further expands Galgotias University’s ecosystem of industry-integrated laboratories, advanced technology infrastructure, innovation centres, and experiential learning facilities developed in collaboration with leading industry partners. The University has continued to build capabilities across emerging technology domains including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electric mobility, cybersecurity, immersive technologies, and high-performance computing. With India’s EV market witnessing accelerated growth across automotive manufacturing, battery innovation, charging infrastructure, mobility services, and clean transportation technologies, the Advanced EV Centre of Excellence is expected to create stronger pathways for students towards research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and high-growth careers within the global electric mobility ecosystem. About Galgotias University Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 15th among private universities and 43rd among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings. Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,100 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem. To know more, visit us at: www.galgotiasuniversity.edu.in.

The Ramaiah Academy Foundation (RAF) and Dassault Systemes today announced their collaboration aimed at bridging the critical gap between academic research and commercial-scale manufacturing. Central to this collaboration is the establishment of a Deep Science Translational Innovation Complex in Bengaluru, designed to accelerate productization in high-impact sectors including Aerospace & Defense, Healthcare & MedTech, Automotive, and Semiconductors.   MoU exchange between Venkatesh Valluri, Vice Chairman, Ramaiah Academy Foundation, and Deepak N.G., Managing Director–India, Dassault Systemes This collaboration represents a first-of-its-kind model in the region, transitioning beyond a traditional academic arrangement into a fully integrated, go-to-market commercial partnership. It seamlessly leverages Dassault Systemes’ globally recognized 3DEXPERIENCE platform alongside Ramaiah’s deep science expertise and advanced prototyping infrastructure. This synergistic relation between RAF and Dassault Systemes aims to enhance the value for companies focused on enhancing their conceptual research & innovation; skill development of their engineers for newer projects; and acquiring newer talent. “This collaboration represents a paradigm shift in how academia and industry collaborate in India. We are moving beyond transactional skill development into a technology l translation engine,” said Venkatesh Valluri, Vice Chairman, Ramaiah Academy Foundation. “Through the Deep Science translation complex, we are providing an end-to-end value chain, from problem definition and virtual twin simulation to physical lab-scale manufacturing,” Valluri continued. “Our joint vision is to foster national-level ‘projects’ that embody the true spirit of Make-in-India, equipping both our industrial partners and our engineering talent with the world’s most advanced technological tools.” “At Dassault Systemes, we believe that shaping the future of industrial innovation starts with empowering the next generation of engineers and thinkers in the virtual world,” said Deepak NG, Managing Director, India, Dassault Systemes. Our collaboration with the Ramaiah Academy Foundation reflects a shared commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry through platform-driven learning. We aim to foster a culture of sustainable innovation and advanced engineering excellence that will drive India’s high-tech and manufacturing ecosystems forward,” he stated further. The Deep Science translational facility, currently undergoing advanced modifications on the Ramaiah campus in Bengaluru, will house state-of-the-art technical teaching centers, collaborative design spaces, and lab-scale manufacturing zones.  About Ramaiah Academy Foundation The Ramaiah Academy Foundation (RAF), a Section 8 not-for-profit company, is a distinguished institution within the Gokula Education Foundation (Medical) ecosystem, carrying forward the legacy of excellence established by the renowned Ramaiah Group. Committed to fostering innovation, advancing applied sciences, and nurturing future-ready talent, the Foundation serves as a catalyst for transformative education, translational research, and industry collaboration. Founded with a vision to bridge the gap between academic discovery and real-world application, Ramaiah Academy Foundation focuses on creating impactful pathways that connect research, technology, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth. The Foundation actively promotes interdisciplinary learning, deep technology development, and innovation-led ecosystems that address emerging global challenges while contributing to India’s scientific and economic progress. At the heart of its vision is the development of a world-class Translational Innovation Complex, a pioneering initiative designed to accelerate the journey of scientific discoveries from laboratories to large-scale commercial applications. The Complex will function as a robust commercial and innovation engine, addressing one of the most critical challenges in the research ecosystem—the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) gap. By enabling the seamless transition of technologies from proof-of-concept and prototype stages to scalable industrial manufacturing, the Foundation aims to create a sustainable bridge between academia, research institutions, startups, industry partners, and investors. The Translational Innovation Complex will provide an integrated platform for advanced research, product development, prototyping, testing, validation, and commercialization. It will foster collaboration among scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders, creating an environment where breakthrough ideas can be transformed into market-ready solutions.   Through this ecosystem, the Foundation seeks to accelerate innovation across strategic sectors including advanced materials, life sciences, healthcare technologies, artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductor technologies, sustainable energy, and other deep-tech domains. Ramaiah Academy Foundation is also committed to developing industry-ready talent through specialized education, skill development, and experiential learning initiatives. By combining academic rigor with practical application, the Foundation equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. Its programs are designed in close collaboration with industry stakeholders, ensuring alignment with evolving workforce requirements and global best practices. Guided by the values of excellence, integrity, innovation, and societal impact, the Foundation strives to create meaningful opportunities for researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and industry partners. Through strategic collaborations with leading academic institutions, research organizations, government agencies, and global industry leaders, it aims to establish a vibrant innovation ecosystem that drives technological advancement and economic development. As India continues its journey toward becoming a global innovation powerhouse, Ramaiah Academy Foundation stands poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of research, technology commercialization, and talent development. By transforming ideas into impact and research into real-world solutions, the Foundation is creating a platform where innovation meets industry, knowledge meets opportunity, and vision translates into lasting societal progress.

As gold loans continue to gain traction across India as a preferred short-term credit option, Bajaj Finance is making it easier than ever for eligible borrowers to understand who qualifies, what documents are needed, and how the rate of interest against gold loan is determined — before they even step into a branch.   Bajaj Finance Gold Loan     A loan product built for accessibility One of the defining features of a gold loan is how inclusive it is. Unlike personal loans or business loans that require income proof, a strong credit score, or extensive documentation, a gold loan is secured entirely against the value of the borrower’s gold. This makes it accessible to a wide cross-section of Indians — salaried employees, self-employed professionals, and pensioners alike. With Bajaj Finance, eligible borrowers can access loan amounts ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹2 crore, with funds disbursed on the same day in most cases*. Gold loan eligibility criteria The gold loan eligibility criteria set by Bajaj Finance are deliberately straightforward. To qualify, a borrower must be an Indian citizen between the ages of 21 and 80. The gold jewellery or ornaments being pledged must be between 18 and 22 karats in purity. Gold coins of up to 24 karats are also accepted — making this one of the most accessible secured loan products available in the Indian market today. It is worth noting that jewellery with heavy stonework or enamel detailing is valued only on its actual gold content. Borrowers are advised to keep this in mind when estimating their eligible loan amount. Documents required The documentation process is minimal by design. Borrowers are required to submit just one valid KYC document, which may be any of the following — an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, passport, driving licence, NREGA job card, or a letter from the National Population Registeration. Rate of interest against gold loan The rate of interest against gold loan at Bajaj Finance starts from just 9.50% per annum. The applicable rate is influenced by factors such as the loan amount, chosen tenure, and the purity of the gold being pledged. Bajaj Finance evaluates gold using the lower of the previous day’s closing price or the 30-day average closing price published by IBJA or a SEBI-regulated commodity exchange — ensuring a fair and stable valuation for the borrower. Repayment is flexible, with borrowers able to pay interest on a monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual basis. The principal is settled at the end of the tenure. Foreclosure is permitted at no additional charge, giving borrowers the freedom to close the loan early if their finances allow. How to apply Borrowers can apply for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan online through the website or app, or by visiting their nearest branch. The online process involves entering a mobile number, verifying with an OTP, filling in personal details, selecting the nearest branch, and downloading an in-principal eligibility letter. Physical assessment of the gold takes place at the branch, following which funds are typically credited on the same day. T&C Apply.   About Bajaj Finance Limited Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings. For more information, visit www.bajajfinserv.in

Chennai Plastic Surgery successfully conducted a two-day advanced hands-on workshop on Chest Sculpting in Gynecomastia, bringing together sixteen practicing plastic surgeons, aesthetic surgeons, fellows, and trainees from across Asia and Australia. The intensive academic program focused on the latest techniques in gynecomastia surgery, male chest contouring, body sculpting, energy-based technologies, and aesthetic surgery practice development.   L-R: Dr. Karthik Ramasamy and Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Venkat Ramakrishnan, Senior Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, Apollo Hospitals Chennai & Chennai Breast Center   The comprehensive workshop led by Dr. Karthik Ramasamy, Chennai’s renowned Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, provided participants with advanced training in the evaluation and management of gynecomastia across all grades. The academic sessions covered key aspects including patient assessment, gynecomastia grading, surgical planning, liposuction-assisted chest sculpting, gland excision, puffy nipple correction, skin tightening procedures, scar minimization, and advanced male chest contouring techniques.   The distinguished faculty panel, comprising Dr. Venkatramakrishnan, Dr. Sivakumar, Dr. Sasi Kumar Muthu, Dr. TNS, Dr. M.D. Nishar, Dr. Preethy, and members of the Chennai Plastic Surgery team, shared their extensive clinical expertise, refined surgical techniques, and practical insights. The faculty emphasized the importance of achieving a natural masculine chest aesthetic while maintaining the highest standards of patient safety, surgical precision, and optimal clinical outcomes in gynecomastia surgery and male chest contouring procedures.   Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Karthik Ramasamy said, “The future of plastic surgery depends on structured training, technology adoption, and hands-on clinical exposure. At Chennai Plastic Surgery, our focus is on advancing gynecomastia surgery, chest sculpting, male chest contouring, and body contouring through live surgical demonstrations and evidence-based learning. Such academic initiatives strengthen surgical decision-making, enhance precision, and improve outcomes in aesthetic surgery practice.”   Beyond Surgery: Integrating Technology, Practice Growth and Next-Generation Plastic Surgery Training Live Surgical Demonstrations and Clinical Learning A major highlight of the workshop was the live surgical demonstration of gynecomastia correction procedures performed on patients with varying grades of the condition. Participants observed real-time operative planning, surgical decision-making, advanced chest sculpting techniques, and management of complex cases, along with interactive case discussions and question-and-answer sessions that enriched the overall learning experience in gynecomastia surgery and male chest contouring.   Technology Integration in Modern Aesthetic Surgery Significant technological value was added through the participation of Mr. Ramamoorthy Sundaram, Managing Director of Spectra, and Mr. Prabakaran, Technical Director of Spectra, who demonstrated advanced energy-based technology devices used in modern aesthetic and surgical procedures.   Participants gained insights into clinical applications, safety protocols, and innovations in energy-based devices, highlighting their role in enhancing surgical precision, improving patient outcomes, and optimizing aesthetic treatment results in body contouring and aesthetic medicine.   Plastic Surgery Practice Building and Growth Strategies The workshop featured dedicated sessions on plastic surgery practice building, covering key areas such as patient communication, ethical marketing, digital branding, online presence, practice management, reputation building, and consistent patient outcomes.   These sessions provided valuable guidance for young surgeons and aesthetic practitioners seeking to establish and expand successful practices in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine.   Future of Plastic Surgery Training in India Discussions on the future of plastic surgery training in India highlighted the growing importance of structured fellowships, cadaveric workshops, simulation-based learning, international collaborations, and exposure to high surgical volumes.   Experts noted that modern plastic surgery education in India is increasingly aligning with global standards, offering training experiences comparable to leading international programs.   About Chennai Plastic Surgery Chennai Plastic Surgery is a leading centre specializing in plastic surgery, cosmetic surgery, gynecomastia surgery, body contouring, facial aesthetics, reconstructive surgery, and advanced aesthetic procedures. The institution is committed to delivering exceptional patient care while actively promoting surgical education, innovation, and professional development through specialized workshops, fellowships, and academic training programs.   To watch the program surf: youtu.be/ZRyCNEVYeXg.