Ai+ today announced NovaPods, its first audio lineup, adding a wearable audio layer to the brand’s connected device ecosystem. Scheduled to launch in Q1 2026 and priced starting below Rs. 1,000, NovaPods is designed to be worn through the day, combining dependable audio with a form factor focused on comfort, fit, understated design and health.

Glimpse of upcoming NovaPods

The NovaPods lineup includes Ai+ NovaPods Go, Air, Pro, Beats, and Clips.

NovaPods Go, a lightweight earbud, is designed for on-the-go users, prioritising portability and convenience.

NovaPods Air offers a blend of comfort and a powerful audio experience without compromising on style.

NovaPods Pro, delivers enhanced sound clarity and active noise cancellation for an immersive audio experience.

NovaPods Beats not only offers a powerful bass, it also integrates heart rate tracking and SpO2 monitoring for active and wellness-focused users.

NovaPods Clips is where health meets fashion meets immersive listening, with an offering of heightened awareness of the listeners’ surroundings.

All NovaPods, across the series, will be available in vibrant, youthful colours similar to those of the Ai+ smartphone line-ups.

Speaking in the announcement, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “NovaPods marks a significant step in our journey to integrate technology into daily life seamlessly. With this lineup, we’re not just offering a product; we’re inviting users to experience a new level of comfort and performance that fits effortlessly into their lifestyles. At Ai+, our mission is to empower users without overwhelming them with complexity or cost.”

The launch of NovaPods reflects Ai+’s broader approach to building connected products that work together while remaining easy to adopt. Full product specifications, pricing details, and availability will be announced closer to launch. NovaPods will be launching nationwide in January 2026 through Flipkart & selected offline partners.

About Ai+

Ai+ is India’s fastest-growing technology brand, built from the ground up to serve a future shaped by applied intelligence and sovereign innovation. At its core is NxtQuantum OS, India’s first native mobile operating system, designed for performance, privacy, and purposeful simplicity. Every Ai+ device blends clean design, battery-optimised hardware, and applied intelligent software to elevate everyday experiences by Adding A Plus.

From redefining smartphones under the Ai+ Smartphone banner to pioneering the Laptab and now the NovaPods as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ is creating new product categories and a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About NxtQuantum Shift Technologies
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is authored in India and globally competitive. 

• Achieved a 16% reduction in energy intensity over the last three years

• Achieved a 17% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions intensity compared to FY2022–23

• 97% of total waste diverted from landfill, reflecting strong circularity practices

• Achieved 4% reduction in water consumption intensity through process-level efficiency initiatives

• Five-year decarbonization roadmap sets clear 2030 sustainability targets
   

Marking over 50 years of engineering and manufacturing leadership, RSB Group published its first Sustainability Report, reaffirming its commitment to responsible growth, operational discipline, and long-term value creation for stakeholders. The report presents performance data across energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water usage and waste management, supported by defined targets and alignment with global reporting standards.
 

RSB Group releases its first Sustainability Report 2025

Sustainability is embedded in RSB’s DNA and has been part of the Group’s approach since its inception, shaping decisions across engineering, manufacturing, and operational excellence.
 

Speaking on the occasion, R. K. Behera, Chairman, RSB Group, said, “Our sustainability journey is rooted in measurable actions on the factory floor. These efforts focus on improving energy use, lowering emissions, and managing water and waste responsibly. At its core, this journey is guided by our 4P framework of Purpose, People, Process, and Planet, which shapes how we design, manufacture, and deliver across our operations. The progress reflected in this report demonstrates how operational discipline, an efficient workforce and clear targets translate into meaningful outcomes. These principles are fundamental to building a sustainable and competitive manufacturing footprint for the future.”

Energy and emissions performance

According to the report, total energy consumption stood at 264,850 GJ, reflecting a ~5% reduction over the past three years, while energy intensity declined to 1.50 GJ per tonne, a ~16% improvement compared to FY22–23.
 

Total Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions reduced to 48,137 tCO₂e, with Scope 1 emissions declining by ~25% compared to FY22–23. GHG emissions intensity improved to 0.27 tCO₂e per tonne, marking a ~17% reduction over the same period.
 

The report outlines a five-year decarbonisation roadmap focused on renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency measures and low-carbon technologies. It also sets out 2030 commitments, including 50% renewable energy adoption and 60% water neutrality, building on progress already achieved.
 

S.K. Behera, Vice Chairman of RSB Group, added, “At RSB, sustainability is not a parallel initiative; it is embedded across the entire value chain, from product design and engineering to manufacturing, logistics, and delivery. Every process decision is evaluated through the lens of efficiency, responsibility, and long-term impact. This commitment is foundational to how we operate today and will continue to guide us as we build future-ready, sustainable manufacturing systems.”
 

Water and waste management

The report also highlights progress in water stewardship, with water intensity improving to 0.61 KL per tonne, a ~4% year-on-year improvement in FY24-25. Waste management initiatives enabled approximately 97% of waste to be diverted from landfill, reflecting process-level improvements across operations.
 

Beyond environmental metrics, the Sustainability Report outlines continued focus on employee safety, workforce skill development and community engagement. Social initiatives are implemented through RSB Foundation, with programmes spanning education, healthcare, livelihoods and environmental stewardship across multiple regions.
 

Aligned with SEBI BRSR and GRI standards, the Sustainability Report reflects a growing emphasis on governance, data-driven performance tracking and the integration of sustainability considerations into manufacturing operations.

For India’s millennials, astrology has quietly moved from the margins to the mainstream. What was once a quick glance at the newspaper horoscope has now become a daily ritual powered by apps, chatbots, and live astrologers. Platforms like AstroSage, Neo Astro, and AstroTalk are seeing unprecedented traction, as young Indians turn to the stars to make sense of careers, relationships, and life’s big crossroads.

Zodiac Sign Trends 2026

The numbers tell their own story. The astrology app market in India, valued at around $163 million in 2024, is expected to grow nearly tenfold to about $1.8 billion by 2030, riding a staggering growth rate of close to 50 percent. Millions of downloads later, these platforms blend ancient Vedic wisdom with modern AI—offering everything from kundli matching and birth chart readings to instant chat consultation with astrologers. For urban, digital-first millennials navigating uncertainty, this mix feels both familiar and futuristic.

Why Millennials Are Driving the Astrology Boom
Born between 1981 and 1996, millennials now form the backbone of India’s astrology audience. Platforms report that nearly 70 percent of their users come from Gen Z and millennial cohorts, with engagement rising month after month. From relationship guidance to career timing, AI-powered chat readings have become especially popular for quick, personalised insights.

What’s striking is how deeply astrology is shaping lifestyle choices. Surveys suggest many young Indians are even planning “star-aligned” travel or key life decisions based on planetary positions. At its core, Vedic astrology’s growing appeal lies in its promise of self-understanding—helping people reflect on identity, emotions, and purpose in a fast-moving world.

The Zodiac Signs Indians Identify With Most
Some signs seem to dominate India’s zodiac landscape. Virgo often tops the list, likely influenced by the high number of births during the monsoon months. It’s followed closely by Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Capricorn—signs associated with discipline, resilience, and ambition, traits that resonate strongly with cultural values around hard work and perseverance.

Interestingly, when it comes to wealth and entrepreneurship, Gemini frequently emerges as the most common sign among billionaires globally, with Virgo close behind. Among millennials, signs like Leo, Sagittarius, and Gemini also enjoy popularity for their charisma, confidence, and leadership appeal.

What 2026 Has in Store: Key Planetary Shifts
Astrologically, 2026 is shaping up to be an eventful year. One of the most talked-about movements is Jupiter’s shift from Gemini to Cancer around June. In Vedic astrology, this transit is associated with emotional grounding, family bonds, and inner security—making it a favourable period for personal growth, learning, and long-term planning.

Later in the year, Rahu and Ketu change signs in November, moving into Capricorn and Cancer, respectively. This shift is believed to highlight ambition, career focus, and questions around emotional balance. Aries, Libra, and Capricorn ascendants, in particular, may feel these energies more strongly. Adding to the mix, multiple eclipses throughout the year are expected to bring moments of clarity, change, and course correction—rising interest among many millennials to check their free horoscope 2026 for a clearer sense of timing around key life decisions.

Saturn’s steady influence continues to emphasise discipline and responsibility—nudging people to commit to slow, meaningful progress rather than quick wins.

Turning Astrology into Everyday Guidance
For many millennials, an astrology app in 2026 won’t just be about predictions—it will be about practical direction. Jupiter’s Cancer phase is seen as a good window for investing in skills, wellness, and family priorities. Some may also turn to traditional remedies, whether it’s wearing silver for balance or simple acts of charity tied to their sign, as a way to stay aligned with positive energies.

What’s new is how seamlessly this blends with technology. Data-driven insights from apps, paired with planetary timings, are increasingly shaping decisions like job changes, partnerships, or even when to launch a new venture.

When Data Meets Destiny
As India’s millennials step into 2026, astrology is no longer just about belief—it’s becoming a lifestyle compass. Guided as much by algorithms as by alignments, this generation is redefining how ancient wisdom fits into modern life.

Whether it’s planning a career move under Jupiter’s supportive gaze or embracing Saturn’s call for patience and self-work, millennials aren’t merely reading 2026 Horoscopes. They’re building “cosmic strategies” for navigating uncertainty. In a world where data meets destiny, the stars may just favour those who learn to read both.

Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a leading diversified technology company, along with Panasonic Corporation (PC), today announced the winners of the third edition of Panasonic Ignition, the company’s accelerator programme designed to support startups redefining the future of residential living. Red Health and Respirer Living Sciences emerged as joint winners of Ignition 3.0 and will now partner with Panasonic to co-create scalable, tech-driven solutions shaping the future of residential living in India.

Panasonic leadership during Ignition 3.0, reinforcing commitment to co-creating scalable, tech-driven solutions for India’s residential ecosystem

Anchored in the theme “Residential Business Challenges,” this edition of Ignition spotlighted innovations that enhance modern living through smart technologies, sustainable practices, personal wellness, connected devices, and community-focused solutions.

IGNITE winner solutions in brief:

• Red Health – Operates a technology-led platform offering integrated emergency response services covering “first minute to last mile.

• Respirer Living Sciences – Develops IoT-enabled energy recovery ventilators that maintain healthy indoor air without wasting energy

Organized in partnership with Beyond Next Ventures, Panasonic Ignition attracted strong interest from India’s startup ecosystem, receiving 113 applications from early to mid-stage ventures across the country. Following a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process, 11 promising startups were selected for a three-month cohort, where they participated in curated masterclasses, received mentoring from Panasonic and Beyond Next Ventures, refined their business models, strengthened product strategy, and underwent technology validation with industry experts.

Mr. Tadashi Chiba, MD & CEO, Panasonic Life Solutions India, stated, “India is now the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, expanding rapidly at 12–15% each year. This momentum inspires us to deepen our commitment to co-creating meaningful solutions. Our philosophy, ‘Create Today, Enrich Tomorrow’ reminds us that innovation must serve a larger purpose, that is, improving the quality of life and contributing to an ideal society. The third edition of Panasonic Ignition embodies this belief, showcasing responsible, future-ready innovations that are poised to transform how people experience their homes and communities.”

With India’s residential landscape undergoing rapid transformation, Panasonic remains committed to collaborating with agile, forward-looking innovators. The insights and solutions emerging from this cohort will guide future product development, shape strategic partnerships, and enable market-ready innovations—all aligned with Panasonic’s long-term vision of delivering homes that are safer, smarter, more efficient, and truly enriching for customers across India.

Mr. Kunio Gohara, Chief Transformation Officer (CTRO) and Head of the CVC Office, Panasonic Corporation, said, “The Panasonic Kurashi Visionary Fund (PKVF) views India as one of the most important innovation ecosystems in the world. With Ignition’s third cohort, we see a new generation of startups building category-defining technologies in safety, wellness, energy, and community living. For us, Ignition is not only an accelerator—it is a strategic investment pipeline. As a CVC, we are committed to identifying founders who can become long-term partners in Panasonic’s global transformation. We will continue to explore investment opportunities in high-potential Indian startups and co-create solutions that can scale across markets and shape the future of residential living.”

Mr. Manish Misra, Chief Innovation Officer, Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), added, “At Panasonic, innovation is not just a function—it is how we create meaningful value for every resident we serve. Ignition 3.0 has shown the power of co-creating with startups to solve the rapidly evolving needs of Indian households. This year’s winners, Red Health and Respirer Living Sciences , embody the next generation of scalable, human-centric residential solutions. Their work reinforces our belief that collaborative innovation is the fastest path to building safer, healthier, and smarter homes for India.”

Mr. Tsuyoshi Ito, President & CEO, Beyond Next Ventures, iterates, “Panasonic Ignition 3.0 has unearthed groundbreaking solutions that promise to make our homes safer, healthier, and more comfortable. We extend our heartiest congratulations to the winners, whose innovations in residential technology will continue to set a new benchmark. Through our partnership with Panasonic, we are excited for these startups to serve millions of households and communities worldwide. At Beyond Next Ventures, we are dedicated to empowering Indian entrepreneurs to expand their horizons through global partnerships.”

Alongside the IGNITE winners, Panasonic also recognized the ACCELERATE award winners —Ambiator, Biomoneta, Cantata, Kubo Care for their high-impact potential. These startups will work with Panasonic on pilot deployments and explore opportunities for mid-term strategic partnerships.

These solutions represent the next frontier of smart, sustainable, and human-centric technologies designed to elevate the residential and consumer lifestyle experience in India.

Panasonic Ignition has evolved from a focused startup accelerator into one of India’s most forward-looking open innovation platforms, now dedicated to solving large-scale, future-of-living challenges. From early cohorts focused on B2B energy management and consumer lifestyle solutions, Ignition 3.0 has matured into addressing system-level challenges across residential living, spanning safety, wellness, energy efficiency, and community infrastructure. Over three years, it has engaged with 700+ startups and forged deep partnerships with 46+ startups to build, validate, and scale real-world solutions.

About the Panasonic Group

Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, devices, B2B solutions and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022 with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company. The Group reported consolidated net sales of 8,458.2 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2025.

To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: holdings.panasonic/global

About Beyond Next Ventures

Beyond Next Ventures is a leading DeepTech venture capital firm with a decade-long legacy of building and scaling science-driven startups that solve real-world challenges. Headquartered in Japan and expanding its presence in India, the firm is distinguished by its unique operator-first DNA, global market access, and deep cross-border networks spanning Japan, the U.S., and India. The firm is currently launching its first India-focused fund (USD 30–50 million), aiming to be the preferred partner for early-stage DeepTech startups and institutional LPs seeking high-impact, high-return investments. The firm is deeply committed to a future where science meets scale for global good. Beyond Next Ventures does this by investing in startups solving societal challenges in health, climate, and digital infrastructure, and where impact and returns are inherently synergistic.

To learn more about Beyond Next Ventures, please visit: beyondnextventures.com

The rapid advancements in the world of technology in recent decades have completely transformed the global landscape of higher education and today, the academic institutions world over are laying extensive focus on research in imparting education. As a result, unlike in the past, the universities have been transformed into not just knowledge dissemination centers but also modern hubs of knowledge creation as well. Realizing the importance of research in education, Chandigarh University has nurtured an academic ethos centered on research. Delivering yet another strong performance in research, India’s No. 1 private university, Chandigarh University, has secured the 9th position in International Research among all private universities in India and 12th rank among all universities nationwide, as per the QS Asia University Rankings 2026. Chandigarh University also delivered a stellar performance on its debut in the Research category of the NIRF Rankings 2025, securing the 7th rank among private universities and the 34th position among all universities in India. Chandigarh University with its research-intensive, innovation-driven and unique experiential learning model has been nurturing next-generation of leaders in emerging domains.

Union Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh Inaugurating Kalpana Chawla Centre for Research in Space Science and Technology (KCC) at Chandigarh University

Over 5,000 Research Publications, 1247 Patents Filed & 943 Published in 2025

Chandigarh University students and faculty members have authored over 20,000 research publications and filed more than 5519 patents out of which 5212 patents published, and 238 patents were granted in diverse domains. In 2025 alone, CU students filed 1247 patents, 943 published and 25 patents were granted.

During January to December 2025, Chandigarh University students filed patents across diverse domains including Computer Science Engineering 734, Electronics Engineering 81, Mathematics 78, Physics 72, Mechanical Engineering 40, Aerospace Engineering 33, Electrical Engineering 29, Biotechnology 26, Optometry 23 and Chemistry 21.

As per Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs, Trademarks and Geographical Indications (report 2023-24), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Chandigarh University’s Technology Business Incubator (CU-TBI) has secured 1^st place by filing highest 1126 patent applications in 2023-24, among all scientific research and development organizations in India. CU has also been ranked among the top 5 institutions in filing the highest number of patents in the last 5 years. CU-TBI provides an opportunity to incubate at the varsity and mobilize Rs 5 crore to catalyze growth in the startup ecosystem at CU which has 200 departmental research groups. CU has more than 2100 visiting international faculty members including 560 international research network scholars. In the last 5 years alone, CU has received INR 90 Crores for research and innovation projects from the Ministry of Science & Technology. Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development cell (IEDC) facilitates the student with financial support from the university to fund their projects.

Chandigarh University Nurturing Future Scientists: 44 Faculty Members Features in Stanford University–Elsevier 2025 List of World’s Top 2% Scientists

Showcasing the growing global research impact and influence of Chandigarh University, as many as 44 faculty members from varied academic domains were featured among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists as per the Stanford University–Elsevier list released in 2025. These prestigious institutions release a large database that identify scientists whose published work is in the top 2% by citation impact in their field based on Scopus citation data and composite citation indicators. This list is an important benchmark for assessing scientific excellence and used globally for academic recognition, funding opportunities and international collaborations. CU faculty members have been featured in the coveted Stanford–Elsevier list of the world’s top 2% scientists, representing a wide spectrum of disciplines. These include Artificial Intelligence; Optoelectronics and Photonics; Mechanical Engineering and Transport Engineering; Chemical Engineering; Environmental Sciences; Materials Science; Applied Physics; Legal and Forensic Medicine; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry; Microbiology; and Neurology and Neurosurgery among others.

15 Industry-Sponsored High-Tech R&D Labs, COEs and 60 Research Centres at CU Nurturing Future Leaders in Emerging Areas

Chandigarh University houses as many as 32 Industry-sponsored Advanced Research Labs and Centers of Excellence (COEs) established by leading multinational corporations such as Microsoft, Cisco, Hyundai, Adobe, LinkedIn, Tech Mahindra, Capgemini and IBM among others that play a crucial role in elevating capabilities of students and faculty members through exposure to live industry projects. Apart from this, CU also houses 60 research centers.

For Engineering students, CU has tied-up with industry leaders that provide hands-on training to students with high-tech labs including Microsoft Innovation Center, Google Android Lab, Adobe Express Lounge Lab, Cloud Computing Lab, Oracle Academy, Tech Mahindra IMS Academy, Unisys Innovation Lab, EMC Academic Alliance, Microsoft Global Technical Support Center, Red Hat Academy Lab, SAP Next Gen Lab, Infor Lab and Microsoft Azure LAAS (Learning as a Service) platform, BOT lab, Bosch Bridge Centre and Cisco Networking Lab among others.

For Automobile Engineering students, CU has tied-up with industry giants that established high-tech labs including Mahindra and Mahindra T-School, Honda Research and Skill Development Centre, Hyundai Professional Development Centre, VE Commercial Training Centre, MG Motors Lab, Eicher – CU Centre of Excellence in Automobile engineering lab, Vehicle Maintenance and Diagnostic Lab.

Pushing frontiers of space science, CU students at the state-of-the-art Kalpana Chawla Centre communicate with all countries’ Ground Station, which are members of SatNOGS, research on 3D Printed Aluminum/Plastics Structures that can be used in SPACE explorations Model Rocketry Lab and Star Gazing Center are all providing them platform to become space scientists.

Launched Campus Tank, India’s First University-led Startup Launchpad with $6 Million Funding Pool for Young Innovators

The academic ethos nurtured here at Chandigarh University does not stop at filing patents but translates its research output from papers to products, nurturing a culture where innovation moves from laboratories to the marketplace. Strengthening this robust innovation-to-enterprise ecosystem, Chandigarh University, India’s leading private university in collaboration with leading job platform Apna and prominent investment firm Venture Catalysts (VCats) has launched ‘Campus Tank’, India’s first university-led startup launchpad aimed at empowering young innovators to ideate, validate, and scale disruptive start-ups. CU students have successfully launched over 250 start-ups in diverse domains; to arm its students with research-intensive learning, the varsity allocates an annual funding of Rs 15 crores to carry out research and innovation-related projects.

Research at Glance

• Patents Filed: 5519

• Patents Published: 5212

• Patents Granted: 238

• Research Publications: 20,000+

• Industry Sponsored R&D Labs: 15

• Annual Research Budget: 15 Crores

• Sponsored Projects from DST (In last 5 years): 90 Crores

Top 10 Departments of Chandigarh University (Patents Filed in 2025)

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: www.cuchd.in