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IIAD/UDIT hosted its annual Graduate Show, UNFOLD 2026, on 9th and 10th May at its New Delhi campus, bringing together leading industry professionals, creative practitioners, distinguished academicians and members of the wider design community to celebrate the graduating batch across multiple disciplines. Showcasing the culmination of students’ academic and creative journeys, the two-day event featured exhibitions, panel discussions, industry interactions, fashion show and award ceremonies across Interior Architecture & Design, Fashion Communication, Communication Design, Fashion Business Management, Fashion Design and Foundation Design.   Lamp lighting and Opening Ceremony of UNFOLD 2026   In attendance were prominent voices from the worlds of fashion, architecture, design, media and business, including Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI); celebrated fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani; Vimarsh Razdan, Co-Founder & CEO of Underneat; architect and computational design pioneer Sushant Verma of rat[LAB]; documentary filmmaker Faiza Khan; art director Mainak Das; Raunaq Singh, AVP Creative Design at Naukri.com; Urvashi Gupta, Head of Account Management, South Asia at WGSN; photographer and visual storyteller Charudutt Chitrak; and noted architect Ashok B Lall, among others.   The event marked the inauguration of UNFOLD 2026 with the lamp lighting and the opening of the graduate exhibition, bringing together interdisciplinary projects across design, fashion, communication, business strategy, spatial experiences and emerging technologies. Through campaigns, films and design interventions, architectural project installations and fashion collections graduating students explored themes of sustainability, social impact, innovation, craft, urban futures and experiential storytelling.   Congratulating the graduating batch, Dr Jitin Chadha, Pro Chancellor, UDIT, acknowledged the significance of industry-integrated learning and socially conscious creative practice in shaping future-ready professionals. “UNFOLD has always been a very special event for us. It reflects the journey of our students, the mentorship of our faculty and the collaborative culture we continue to build at UDIT. Every year, it is inspiring to see young designers and innovators engage with real-world challenges through creativity, technology and human-centred thinking,” he said.   The 8th edition of the Graduate Show also featured a series of industry-led panel discussions and interactive sessions across Interior Architecture & Design, Fashion Communication, Communication Design and Fashion Business Management, offering graduating students valuable insights into contemporary industry practices. These sessions encouraged students to critically engage with industry realities and understand the importance of adaptability, research-driven thinking and socially conscious creative practice in today’s industry.   Industry experts and creative leaders from across disciplines engaged closely with students enabling graduating students to gain practical perspectives on the evolving expectations of the global design and fashion industries. The interactions further reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and industry-integrated learning within contemporary creative education.   Another important segment of the show was the award ceremonies across departments, recognising outstanding graduate works. Selected graduating students were honoured for projects spanning communication campaigns, animation films, spatial interventions, sustainable fashion solutions, branding systems, UX/UI experiences, retail concepts, and business-driven design strategies. The awards acknowledged projects that responded thoughtfully to contemporary cultural, social, technological and environmental challenges while reflecting strong interdisciplinary learning and industry relevance.   By bringing together emerging talent, academicians, and creative leaders on a shared platform, UNFOLD 2026 highlighted the growing intersections between design, business, technology, and culture while reflecting UDIT’s continued emphasis on interdisciplinary and industry-engaged learning.   About UDIT UDIT—the University of Design, Innovation and Technology—is India’s first university built for creators, located in Gurugram. Emerging from over a decade of studio-led learning at IIAD, it brings together design, technology and management within a unified, practice-led framework. The School of Design offers programmes in Visual Communication, Fashion, Product and Interior Design. The School of Management focuses on Fashion & Luxury Business Management and Technology Business Management. UDIT represents a fundamental reimagination of higher education, where students create the products, companies and solutions the world will need tomorrow.

Raising Superstars has announced the launch of Prodigy Pathway, a first-of-its-kind, AI-powered, in-home preschool program designed for children aged 0–6. Combining certified educators, a proprietary curriculum, and AI-driven personalization, the program aims to fundamentally transform early childhood education in India – without screens, pressure, or traditional classroom constraints.   The launch addresses a long-standing gap in the education system. Research indicates that 75% of brain development occurs by age 2 and 90% by age 6, yet structured education in India typically begins only after this critical window. Early learning also receives just 2–3% of total education funding, leaving parents with limited, often ineffective options.   Existing alternatives such as playschools, online classes, and physical learning centres – fall short in different ways. Playschools often function as daycares with inconsistent curriculum delivery, online programs rely on screen exposure that experts discourage for young children, and physical centres struggle to deliver personalization at scale. Prodigy Pathway is designed to bridge this gap through a home-based, deeply personalized learning model.   At the core of Prodigy Pathway is a simple but powerful approach: bringing structured early education directly into the child’s home. RS-certified Prodigy Coaches conduct 45–60 minute sessions, complete with all materials and activities. Each session is dynamically tailored by an AI engine that adapts to the child’s age, milestones, and developmental trajectory, while remaining aligned to a structured curriculum framework.   In contrast to the broader EdTech ecosystem, Prodigy Pathway takes a deliberately contrarian stance: no screens, no testing, and no pressure. The model emphasizes process-led development, where outcomes emerge naturally through consistent, joyful engagement rather than performance-driven metrics.   Early adoption has shown strong traction in the Mumbai pilot market, with 15x revenue growth over seven months — despite deliberately limited enrolment slots each month. Raising Superstars brings a strong pedigree of documented outcomes, with 1,000+ long-form parent testimonials capturing results such as early reading (as young as age 3), bilingual speech development, photographic memory in toddlers, strong socio-emotional skills, and enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities.   Beyond child development, the initiative also creates a significant social impact opportunity. Raising Superstars plans to recruit, train, and certify 2,000+ women as Prodigy Coaches across 15+ cities, enabling large-scale employment while maintaining high standards of delivery.   Mr. Raghav Himatsingka, CEO & Co-founder of Raising Superstars   “The first six years of a child’s life are the most important of their entire existence and we’ve been leaving them to chance. Prodigy Pathway changes that. We’re bringing the world’s topmost early childhood curriculum directly into homes, powered by AI, delivered by remarkable humans — with zero screens and zero pressure,” said Raghav Himatsingka, Co-founder & CEO, Raising Superstars.   Currently piloted in Mumbai, Prodigy Pathway aims to expand to 15+ cities across India, with a target of reaching 18,000+ active children and delivering over 1 million sessions annually within the next three years, powered by AI-driven scheduling and logistics. With Prodigy Pathway, Raising Superstars is not just launching a new program, it is introducing a new category of early education: one that is personalized, home-based, human-led, and built for the most critical years of life.   About Raising Superstars Raising Superstars is a Mumbai-based early childhood education company on a mission to unlock the extraordinary potential in every child aged 0–6 — before the brain’s critical learning window closes forever. With over 500,000 families across 150+ countries, it is a globally recognized company in the early years space. The company is a Shark Tank India deal winner, and ranked #4 in TIME’s Global EdTech list (2024).

H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, unveiled “Greenz by Danube,” the latest development by Danube Properties, during a major event held at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. The launch was attended by Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, along with more than 7,000 investors, business leaders, distinguished guests, and media representatives. The project marks the debut of Danube’s first large-scale integrated master villa community and Dubai’s first fully furnished master villa project.   H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan unveils “Greenz by Danube” at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena alongside Rizwan Sajan, Founder & Chairman, Danube Group H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan stated that the unveiling of “Greenz by Danube Properties” represents an important occasion reflecting the continued success achieved by Danube Group in the United Arab Emirates. He noted that the company has built a strong and productive long-term relationship with Dubai and the UAE through its sustained contributions to the building materials sector and related industries, before expanding into real estate development and community building. He emphasized that the company has grown alongside Dubai itself, adding that companies achieving genuine success in Dubai understand that meaningful development is built upon trust, reliability, and a deep understanding of the needs of residents, investors, families, and communities. He added that the United Arab Emirates has earned a well-established global reputation as a destination where people from around the world come to build, invest, live, work, and create better futures for themselves and their families. He stressed that this remarkable standing has been achieved thanks to the wise leadership and visionary approach of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, who continues to emphasize the importance of building a nation that benefits from global progress, encourages innovation, and provides an outstanding environment in which enterprise and human potential can flourish. He further affirmed that this ambitious national vision is strongly supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, may God preserve him, noting that the UAE continues, under the guidance of its wise leadership, to place people at the center of national development. He explained that cities are judged by the quality of life they offer to their residents, while communities are ultimately judged by the values they nurture, including family cohesion, neighbourly spirit, wellbeing, security, tolerance, and shared responsibility. He said that the launch of “Greenz” represents an occasion to celebrate a vision of modern living shaped by greenery, wellness, family life, comfort, and community spirit. He stressed that real estate development, at its very best, creates places of human connection — places that support families, strengthen communities, and give substance to the promise that the UAE is a country of opportunity, stability, and hope. He also noted that the project reflects confidence in the future of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates and confirms that Dubai and the UAE are places where businesses can flourish, families can thrive, investors can participate in growth, and residents can enjoy a high quality of life. He added that he extends his sincere congratulations to Rizwan Sajan, the leadership team, and all employees of Danube Properties, emphasizing that their long-standing association with Dubai and the UAE represents a distinguished record of commitment and contribution to economic and urban development. He also expressed appreciation to all partners, consultants, designers, contractors, and professionals involved in the project, commending their dedication and efforts in delivering this integrated development. He concluded by affirming that the United Arab Emirates has always believed that development must ultimately serve people first, noting that Danube Properties, through projects such as “Greenz,” has demonstrated this principle in practice. He also extended his best wishes to future residents and investors, expressing his hope that the development will become a place of happiness, security, friendship, and achievement, while adding further beauty and distinction to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. He further expressed confidence that Danube Properties will continue upholding the high standards and principles that have long distinguished its work and achievements. For his part, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said, “If you ask me why someone should invest in Greenz by Danube, I’d summarize the answer in five key reasons: prime location, fully furnished homes with Dolce Vita Italian branded interiors, more than 50 amenities and services, easy access to all major destinations in Dubai, and our flexible 1% monthly payment plan.” Located next to Dubai International Academic City and behind Dubai Silicon Oasis, “Greenz by Danube” is Dubai’s first fully furnished master villa community offered with a flexible 1% monthly payment plan. The project enjoys a strategic location within one of Dubai’s fastest-growing residential corridors. The surrounding area is home to more than 100,000 residents, professionals, and entrepreneurs, and will benefit from the upcoming District IO technology hub aligned with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The hub is projected to generate more than 70,000 jobs, further enhancing the area’s appeal for investment and residential living. The development will feature 3- and 4-bedroom townhouses, along with 5-bedroom semi-detached and twin villas. The homes will include modern façades, Dolce Vita finishes, private lifts, sky gardens, and closed kitchens, with handover scheduled for December 2029. Residents will enjoy access to more than 50 amenities and services distributed across five themed leisure zones, including sports courts, beach-inspired spaces, wellness facilities, green landscapes, family zones, a dancing fountain, and a 3.75-kilometre jogging track. The project will also provide buggy transport within the community, in addition to a dedicated shuttle service to the metro station. With prices starting from AED 3.5 million and a flexible 1% monthly payment plan, “Greenz by Danube” offers a compelling residential and investment opportunity for both investors and end-users alike. About Danube Properties Danube Properties, a subsidiary of Danube Group founded by Rizwan Sajan in 1993, is among the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. The

The Bajaj Group, one of India’s largest conglomerates by market cap at US$ 148 billion, serves 1 in 3 Indian households across automobiles, financial services, consumer electricals and engineering A Century of trust: The Bajaj Group traces its roots to its founder Jamnalal Bajaj, freedom fighter, social reformer, philanthropist, industrialist, and considered the fifth adopted son of Mahatma Gandhi, who set up the Group’s first office in Mumbai (then-Bombay) in 1926.   The Bajaj Group, one of India’s oldest family businesses and among its largest conglomerates by market cap at $USD 148 billion, today commemorated 100 years in business – with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi extending his greetings on a milestone that traces India’s own arc – from the freedom movement to its global economic rise.   L to R: Shekhar Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director, Bajaj Electricals Ltd., Nirav Bajaj, CEO & MD, Bajaj Integrated Health System Pvt. Ltd., Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto Ltd., Niraj Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Auto Ltd.; Chairman & Managing Director, Mukand Ltd., Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Bajaj Finserv Ltd.   Founded in 1926 in Mumbai (then-Bombay) by Jamnalal Bajaj, a freedom fighter, social reformer, philanthropist, industrialist and considered the fifth adopted son of Mahatma Gandhi, the Bajaj Group serves one in three Indian households and employs over 130,000 employees.   With over 100 companies, exports to over 100 countries, and an upcoming foray into healthcare, the Bajaj Group has built one of India’s most trusted brands across automobiles, financial services, consumer electronics and engineering. Some of its listed companies include Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Holdings & Investment, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Housing Finance, Bajaj Electricals and Mukand.   In a message to the Bajaj family recognising the Bajaj Group’s contributions to nation-building, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, said, “On the occasion of the centenary of the Bajaj Group, I extend my greetings and best wishes to everyone associated with this milestone. A hundred years is a significant journey for any institution. It reflects not only longevity, but also the ability to adapt to changing times, contribute to economic growth and remain relevant across generations.   “Started under the leadership of Shri Jamnalal Bajaj, the Bajaj Group has been a part of India’s industrial and economic landscape through many phases of our nation’s development. It has grown into a diversified company with operations across various sectors, which serve customers both in India and across the world.   “Over the decades, the Bajaj Group has played an important role in nation-building by creating jobs, fostering innovation and supporting community development. Milestones such as this are an opportunity to reflect on key contributions, as well as to renew commitment towards growth, sustainability and inclusive progress.   “India is moving forward with new aspirations in manufacturing, innovation and global competitiveness. Institutions with deep roots and experience such as the Bajaj Group have an important role to play in shaping the journey towards Viksit Bharat by 2047.   Greetings to everyone at the Bajaj Group once again on this memorable occasion. I am confident that the years ahead will be about continued progress and meaningful contributions to the nation’s development.”   The Bajaj Group’s social impact efforts, focused on youth skilling and employment, child health, education and protection, have positively impacted the lives of over 10 million beneficiaries.   The centenary celebration at the National Sports Club of India, Mumbai, brought together family members, captains of industry, Union and State Ministers, political leaders, celebrities and partners. The evening traced the family’s journey, from its role in India’s freedom struggle, through the shift from trading to manufacturing and financial services, to new-age technologies that its businesses lead today.     Highlights included addresses by the Bajaj family, a specially composed live performance by Grammy award winner and globally acclaimed composer Ricky Kej and his troupe, the screening of ‘Kathni Karni Eksi’, a film on Jamnalal Bajaj and Mahatma Gandhi, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, and the unveiling of the ‘100 years of Bajaj’ logo.   Speaking on the occasion: Niraj Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Auto, in his address themed ‘India and Bajaj’, said, “As a family, we thank our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his wishes and encouraging words. The story of Bajaj and the story of India have never really been separate. India’s journey towards self-reliance did not begin recently. It began nearly a century ago — when visionary Indians believed that Bharat must build for itself, produce for itself, and stand on its own feet. One of those pioneers was Jamnalalji — our founder. His philosophy of ‘common good over individual gain’ shaped our decisions across generations. His spouse, Jankideviji Bajaj, was India’s first lady recipient of the Padma Vibhushan. Jamnalalji’s philosophy was taken forward successfully by his sons Kamalnayan Bajaj and Ramkrishna Bajaj, both brought up under the eye of Mahatma Gandhi, during their formative years. Thereafter, Rahul Bajaj, a giant among corporate leaders, established a result oriented yet human, ambitious yet honest, organization. As industries grew and capabilities expanded, one thought remained constant: Build in India. Build for India. And build India.”   Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto, in his address themed ‘Globalisation’ said, “What we say and what we do must always be the same. And perhaps that is why the Bajaj journey did not become just a story of growth. It became a story of trust. Today, Bajaj Auto is not just one of India’s largest two-wheeler companies. It is among the top three globally. Our vehicles are sold in over 100 countries in Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia. The Pulsar brand today stands with global players, not behind them. And when we partnered with KTM, an iconic Austrian motorcycle company — it was not just a business deal. This shows that an Indian company is not just a follower, it is a co-creator of global brands. It also proves that legacy and innovation can walk together. Today’s India does not only participate, but it also competes in the global economy.”

TRST01, a specialist carbon intelligence and digital MRV firm, today announced a structured three-hub platform designed to mobilise green finance and investment across the next generation of carbon markets. India provides the technology engine, Singapore the global carbon markets gateway, and Dubai the regional deployment and climate intelligence centre.   TRST01 Climate intelligence platform   The announcement coincides with the appointment of Dr. Ivano Iannelli as strategic lead for TRST01’s UAE operations, a climate finance and development economics professional with over two decades of experience across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Dr. Iannelli will lead the development of the Carbon Intelligence discipline from Dubai, through the institutionalisation of purpose-built AI infrastructure, carbon intelligence algorithms, and the TRST01 digital MRV architecture serving Global South sovereign markets at scale. India – Technology Hub: AI-native analytics, digital MRV systems, and the TRST01 blockchain traceability architecture. Enabled by the India-UAE CEPA technology services corridor. Singapore – Green Finance Hub: Structured green finance, ITMO buyer networks, Article 6 transaction mechanisms, and access to global premier capital markets and carbon registry infrastructure. Dubai – Climate Intelligence Hub: Regional deployment centre where technology, finance, and policy converge into Carbon Intelligence products for governments, corporates, and sovereign registries across the Global South. Platform Architecture India (home to TRST01’s core technology capability) provides the engineering foundation for the platform’s AI-native analytics, digital MRV systems, and the TRST01 blockchain traceability architecture. The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), in force since May 2022, enables technology services flow between the two hubs. Singapore serves as the green finance architecture hub, connecting carbon asset origination to institutional capital and ITMO buyer networks. Dubai functions as the climate intelligence deployment centre, where technology, finance, and policy converge for governments, corporates, and sovereign registries across the Gulf, Africa, and the broader Global South. “The carbon market does not need more brokers. It needs infrastructure: systems that turn raw emission data into auditable, bankable, and policy-aligned assets at the speed Article 6 now demands. The UAE is where technology, finance, and climate policy connect at global scale,” Dr. Ivano Iannelli, Strategic Lead, TRST01 UAE. About Carbon Intelligence TRST01 uses the term “Carbon Intelligence” to describe the convergence of carbon market expertise, AI-native data analytics purpose-built for carbon market applications, digital MRV infrastructure, and institutional policy advisory. The three-hub architecture reflects this model in practice: technology built in India, capital structured in Singapore, intelligence deployed from Dubai. Operational Deployments TRST01 served as technology partner for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s National Digital Carbon Credit Registry, one of two sovereign African registries launched within 72 hours at COP30 in Belém, Brazil in November 2025, built on the TRST01 architecture. TRST01 is also a joint venture partner in Malawi’s emerging carbon credit ecosystem. Both the DRC and Malawi are Global South sovereign markets engaged in active Article 6 implementation, where the TRST01 platform is currently deployed. About TRST01 TRST01 is a global carbon intelligence and digital MRV firm operating across the UAE, India, and Singapore. The firm develops sovereign carbon registries, Article 6 technical advisory services, and AI-native emissions monitoring systems for governments, development finance institutions, and corporate clients, with a focus on Global South sovereign markets. About Carbon Intelligence Carbon Intelligence is the convergence of carbon market expertise, AI-native analytics, digital MRV infrastructure, and institutional policy advisory, enabling governments, corporates, and investors to convert emissions data into auditable, bankable, and policy-aligned assets. TRST01 is establishing Dubai as a dedicated Carbon Intelligence Centre serving the Global South.

In a moment of pride for the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), its Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad, has been unanimously elected as the President of the India Chapter of the International Road Federation (IRF).   L to R- SK Suravase CE MSRDC,K K Kapila President,Emeritus IRF- IC,Dr Anilkumar Gaikwad VCMD MSRDC&President IRF-IC,DO Tawade ExMember NHAI,Advisor IRF- IC,Hemant Jagtap OSD MSRDC   Dr. Gaikwad formally assumed charge during the Council Meeting held at India International Centre, New Delhi on 9th May 2026. His tenure will be of two years.   Dr Anilkumar Gaikwad, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC)   Further strengthening MSRDC’s representation at the global platform, MSRDC Chief Engineer S.K. Suravase has also been nominated as a Member of the Governing Council of the IRF India Chapter.   Established in 1948 and headquartered in Geneva, the International Road Federation is a non-governmental and non-profit global organisation dedicated to promoting safer roads, sustainable mobility, innovation, and world-class transportation infrastructure. The IRF works with governments, institutions, and industry stakeholders across the world to advance road safety and mobility solutions. Its India Chapter is headquartered in New Delhi.   Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Gaikwad said, “It is an honour to lead the IRF India Chapter at a time when India is witnessing transformative growth in transportation infrastructure. I look forward to working with industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to promote safer, smarter and sustainable mobility solutions aligned with global best practices.”   Under Dr. Gaikwad’s leadership, MSRDC has emerged as one of India’s leading infrastructure agencies, spearheading several landmark mobility and connectivity projects in Maharashtra. About Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad Dr. Anilkumar Baliram Gaikwad is a distinguished civil engineer and public servant with over four decades of exemplary service in transforming Maharashtra’s infrastructure landscape. Currently serving as Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), he leads one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure portfolios.   His leadership has been instrumental in delivering landmark projects that have redefined connectivity in the state. Most notably, he played a pivotal role in the conceptualization, planning, and execution of the Hindu Hridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg — India’s fastest expressway. As Chief Engineer and later Joint Managing Director (Engineering), he oversaw the successful delivery of this 701 km super-communication corridor. featuring 65 flyovers, 24 interchanges, six tunnels, and hundreds of underpasses, completed at record speed. The expressway now serves as a major economic lifeline connecting Mumbai to Nagpur and 24 districts.   With deep experience across the Public Works Department (PWD) and MSRDC, Dr. Gaikwad has held multiple key positions including Secretary (Works), Government of Maharashtra. His contributions extend to iconic projects such as the Bandra-Varsova Sea Link, Thane Creek Bridge III, and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link.   A recipient of the Best Engineer Award from the Governor of Maharashtra (1999) and the Rashtriya Gaurav Puraskar (2005), Dr. Gaikwad is known for his engineering excellence, project management acumen, and commitment to public service. He is an active member of leading professional bodies including the Institution of Engineers (India), Indian Road Congress, Indian Building Congress, and the American Concrete Institute. Passionate about knowledge sharing, he has trained numerous PWD officers and published research on critical infrastructure challenges.

Industry watchers argue the two recent statements urging citizens to save fuel, restrict non-essential imports, and promote local consumption should be seen in the backdrop of India’s energy security and economic robustness at a time when uncertainty looms over more western regions facing prolonged uncertainty due to ongoing geopolitical risk currently taking place in West Asia.   India’s energy backbone at work — balancing supply security, economic stability and uninterrupted fuel availability amid a volatile global energy landscape   The world economy was already under strain due to costs when the Ukraine conflict sent crude oil, gas, fertilisers, edible oil, metals, shipping, and food commodity prices skyrocketing. The effects of the ongoing Iran conflict and persisting disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are worsening these pressures further, constraining global supplies and creating extreme volatility across energy and commodity markets.   The reality is that India imports a large chunk of its crude oil, fertilisers, edible oil and more importantly all industrial inputs from the global markets. Higher global prices sharply push up India’s import bill, exerting further pressure on foreign exchange reserves, the rupee, inflation and overall government finances!   Economists note that many important imports for India are purchased largely in US dollars. For example, foreign exchange cannot be created at will like domestic currency. Foreign exchange inflow comes from exports, remittances, services, and investments, and it spends it on imports of crude oil, LNG, fertilisers, electronics, including software packages, in other countries to make up for the shortfall in domestic production against increasing demand resulting from a rising population, together with edible oil/gold. Consequently, during torturous worldwide crises, holding international trade is a strategic priority for economic stability.   In this context, measures to limit unnecessary imports and reduce excess energy consumption are increasingly seen as part of a broader economic resilience strategy.   That push on petrol and diesel consumption can help bring down crude oil imports, while public transport, domestic tourism and made-in-India products will keep economic activity and spending in the country. Likewise, natural farming, ethanol blending, solar pumps, and renewable energy efforts can, over time, gradually reduce reliance on imported fuel and chemicals.   The rationale behind such appeals, analysts note, is the broader theory that millions of small behavioral and consumption changes by citizens can aggregate to create macroeconomic effects at the national level — aiding foreign exchange conservation, reducing inflationary pressures, strengthening domestic industries, and fostering long-term self-reliance amid global disruptions.   India’s three state-run fuel retailers — IOCL, BPCL and HPCL — are also key to maintaining stable domestic petrol and diesel prices amid unprecedented global energy market volatility.   International energy markets continue to feel under immense strain amid persistent threats in and around the Strait of Hormuz — a vital energy artery through which nearly one-fifth of oil trade usually transits. Idle global fuel supplies, freight and marine insurance costs, and refining margins have all been sharply inflated, with the prolonged disruption affecting volatility in the crude and refined fuel markets, according to industry assessments.   India’s fuel supply ecosystem has largely maintained operational continuity under this pressure by bolstering logistics coordination, calibrated inventory management, and supply-chain planning. Domestic retail fuel supplies have been steady, with no major disruptions reported around the top consumption centers.   Industry observers say the current crisis extends well beyond crude oil pricing. Soaring shipping prices, high war-risk insurance premiums, reducing diesel and aviation fuel stocks in Europe and Asia Pacific, longer shipping routes and refinery bottlenecks have come together to cause one of the biggest global energy disruptions in a generation.   Many experts cite their implementation of fuel-rationing systems, advisories to conserve energy, and demand-curtailment mechanisms while taking emergency measures as the reason it doesn’t require such swift decisions, while India has so far been able to maintain more consistent availability and controlled retail pricing for fuel than its counterparts even amid the high global crude price.   Analysts say that initially, when the fallout over Iran first escalated, global expectations were for only a brief disruption. Globally, some governments and energy companies initially tried to bear the additional burden while betting on de-escalation. But now the conflict has lasted longer than expected and has drawn out into a stalemate; the collective weight of high crude prices, higher logistics costs, and higher insurance premiums has added to the pressure.   This pressure, they also point out, is not restricted to simply fuel. Fertiliser prices have been high globally for a few years now, and therefore this is another year when India continues to insulate domestic consumers and farmers from the full impact of sharp increases in international prices.   However, India’s integrated fuel infrastructure — including refineries, coastal terminals, LPG bottling plants, inland depots, and a pipeline network — has emerged as the backbone of resilience amid growing global uncertainty, according to sector experts.   Industry believes that as geopolitical uncertainty continues, India’s energy ecosystem will remain focused on demand security, operational resilience, measured market stability and long-term energy sustainability while simultaneously pushing for enhanced economic resilience and self-reliance at the national level.

DKMS Foundation, a non-profit organisation supporting patients with blood cancer and blood disorders, hosted the DKMS Lifesaver Honours to recognise partners, supporters, and medical professionals whose contributions have strengthened the donor registry, improved patient care, and enabled more patients to receive a second chance at life.   DKMS Foundation India brings together changemakers and medical leaders at the Lifesaver Honours Night in Bengaluru to support blood cancer patients   The event brought together key stakeholders whose collective efforts have driven the expansion of the blood stem cell donor registry and enhanced patient care in India. It highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration across the medical community, institutions, and civil society to address the growing need for stem cell donors, while also drawing attention to ongoing efforts to raise awareness and bridge gaps in access to timely, life-saving transplants for patients across the country.   Among the prominent guests at the evening were Karthik Reddy, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Bengaluru City, and Mandira Bedi, actor, television presenter, and fitness advocate, who lent their support to the cause.   “Our mission to provide a second chance at life is a collaborative effort spanning medical science, corporate social responsibility, and public advocacy,” said Patrick Paul, Executive Chairman, DKMS India. “The Lifesaver Honours is our way of expressing gratitude to those who go above and beyond to bring hope to patients in need. Their commitment continues to form the backbone of our work in India.”   Dr. Elke Neujahr, Global CEO, DKMS said, “Every year, thousands of donor searches are initiated globally, highlighting the ongoing need for matching donors. At DKMS, we are committed to ensuring that every patient in need can find a suitable match.” “This is only possible through collaboration. To save lives it takes voices that inspire action, institutions that mobilise communities, medical teams that deliver excellence, and individuals whose dedication never stops.”   A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Honour to Dr. Latha Jagannathan, Medical Director and Managing Trustee, BMST Bengaluru, in recognition of her contribution to the fight against blood cancer and blood disorders. “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition and to stand alongside those committed to this cause,” said Dr. Latha Jagannathan. “It is a privilege to contribute to work that brings hope to families when they need it most.”   The evening also served as a platform to discuss key challenges in blood stem cell transplantation, including gaps in donor availability, awareness, and timely access to treatment, while highlighting the need for stronger collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem to improve patient outcomes.   The evening honoured winners across four distinct categories: Category 1: Awareness Excellence in Blood Cancer & Blood Disorders Reporting: Awarded to Afshan Yasmeen, Deputy Editor, The Hindu, Bengaluru, for impactful reporting that brought the cause to the forefront of public discourse through the story, “A Silent Burden: Thalassaemia Patients in Karnataka Battle Disease with Hope and Hardship”   Category 2: Registration Outstanding Institutional Partner: Recognising Manipal Institute of Technology (MAHE), Manipal, for leading the way in youth donor registration. Outstanding Corporate Partner: Celebrating EXL Technologies, India, for integrating the DKMS mission into their CSR and employee engagement initiatives.   Category 3: Medical Excellence Collection Centre of the Year: Awarded to BMST, Bengaluru, for demonstrating exceptional standards in donor care and stem cell collection. Medical Advisory Group Felicitation: A special honour for 10 distinguished members of the medical community for their expert guidance.   Category 4: Special Recognition Lifetime Excellence Award: A leadership-discretionary honour recognising an individual who has made a unique, transformative impact on the lives of patients with blood cancer and blood disorders.   About DKMS Foundation DKMS Foundation, India, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and other blood disorders, such as thalassemia and aplastic anemia. The foundation aims to improve the situation of patients in India and across the world by raising awareness about blood stem cell transplantation and registering potential blood stem cell donors. For more information, please visit www.dkms-India.org.

PET FAMILY, an exclusive social networking platform dedicated to pet lovers, pet parents, veterinarians, pet businesses and the entire pet care ecosystem, has been officially launched with the vision of creating a unique digital community built around the emotional bond between humans and pets.   PET FAMILY founder and pet enthusiast Dharam Sidhu with brand ambassador actress Sonal Chauhan at the launch of the all-in-one pet care platform in Mumbai   The platform has been launched by 20-year-old entrepreneur and passionate pet enthusiast Dharam Sidhu, who transformed his deep love for animals into a professional vision aimed at building a meaningful and engaging platform for pet lovers. Driven by the idea that pets are an inseparable part of every family, Dharam Sidhu conceptualized PET FAMILY as a space where pet parents can connect, share experiences and celebrate the companionship pets bring into their lives.   Adding further prominence to the official launch held in Mumbai on May 10, 2026, renowned actress and passionate pet lover Sonal Chauhan was introduced as the Brand Ambassador of PET FAMILY. Known for her affection towards animals, she expressed support for the platform’s vision of building a dedicated community that celebrates the special bond between pets and their families.   Developed as a dedicated digital ecosystem for the rapidly growing pet community, PET FAMILY enables users to connect with fellow pet lovers, share memories, celebrate their pets and engage with a like-minded community that truly understands the emotional connection between pets and their families.   India today is home to nearly 40 million pet parents, while the global pet care industry and pet-loving community continue to witness significant growth. Recognizing the evolving needs of this expanding ecosystem, PET FAMILY has been designed to go beyond conventional social networking by offering an integrated platform for communication, engagement and pet-related services.   The app provides a one-stop destination for the pet community by allowing pet care brands, vendors and service providers to showcase their products and offer services directly to users. The platform aims to bridge the gap between pet parents and the pet care industry through a seamless and community-driven experience.   One of the app’s most distinctive features is that it allows users to create profile identities featuring themselves together with their pets, reinforcing the belief that pets are not merely companions but an inseparable part of the family.   With a vision to build a global community of pet lovers, PET FAMILY aspires to create meaningful emotional connections and a vibrant platform where every pet and every pet parent feels valued, connected and celebrated.   Speaking on the launch, the company stated, “PET FAMILY is not just an app — it is a family built on love, companionship and connection.”   For more information, visit website: petfamily.in, www.instagram.com/official.petfamily