The Department of Hotel Management at Manipal University Jaipur, in collaboration with the Royal Rajasthan Chefs Society, successfully organized the Manipal International Chefs’ Conclave 2.0 on its campus on Wednesday.

Inaugural ceremony of International Chefs Conclave at Manipal University Jaipur

The conclave, themed “Culinary Heritage of Rajasthan & Its Impact on Tourism Economy,” underscored the vital role of traditional cuisine in promoting tourism and driving economic growth. The event began with a traditional welcome ceremony featuring tilak, safa ceremony, lamp lighting, and Saraswati Vandana, setting a culturally rich tone for the proceedings.

All guests and participants were welcomed by Dr. Chef Sourabh Sharma, HoD, Hotel Management and Dr. Brajesh Kumar, Dean, Faculty of Management, Commerce and Arts, Manipal University Jaipur.

Addressing the gathering, Pro-President Dr. Karunakar A. Kotegar described food as a philosophy that engages all five senses (Panchendriya) and offers complete satisfaction. He emphasized that food acts as a powerful carrier of culture, connecting people across geographies and generations.

Renowned culinary expert Manjit Singh Gill set the context for the conclave, advocating for greater recognition of Indian cuisine as a representation of the country’s cultural identity. Celebrity chef Ajay Chopra, known for his association with MasterChef India, spoke on the importance of food tourism and sustainability. He highlighted that the transfer of culinary knowledge to future generations is key to sustaining the industry.

The conclave brought together an impressive lineup of eminent chefs from India and abroad, including Vijaya Baskaran, Vimal Dhar, Sabyasachi Gorai, Ashish Bhasin, Akshraj Jodha, Nand Lal Sharma, Rajeev Goyal, TC Gokhan Kesen, Amey Marathe, Ravikant Pathak, Abhiru Biswas, Bharat Alagh, Sumanta Chakrabarti, Sangeeta Dhar, and Manjit Singh Ratoo, among others.

Keynote sessions and panel discussions focused on culinary tourism, sustainability, and the economic potential of regional cuisines. Two engaging panel discussions explored the socio-economic impact of culinary tourism and examined how social media is influencing culinary authenticity in the modern era.

Adding an interactive dimension, the conclave featured a culinary quiz that saw enthusiastic participation from students, fostering engagement and learning. The event concluded with the felicitation of contributors, a formal vote of thanks, and a networking session that encouraged collaboration between academia and industry.

With active participation from students, faculty, and industry professionals, the conclave emerged as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, industry dialogue, and inspiration for aspiring hospitality professionals.

BPTP Limited announces the award of the construction contract for its residential development, Downtown 66 in Sector 66, Gurugram, to NCC Limited.

Downtown 66 by BPTP Limited

The contract, valued at approximately INR 488 Crore, pertains to civil structure and finishing with a total construction area of approximately 1,79,302 Sq.mtr. The scope of work includes towers, and other amenities, aligned with approved project plans and defined project specifications.

Commenting on the development, Manik Malik, CEO & President, BPTP Limited, said, “BPTP has awarded the construction contract for Downtown 66 to NCC Limited an established player in the construction sector. This engagement reflects our strategic emphasis on partnering with seasoned contractors for project execution, aligned with design imperatives and project requirements.”

Located along Golf Course Extension Road, Downtown 66 forms part of BPTP’s development portfolio in Gurugram. The project is planned with a focus on modern design, holistic and multi-generational living, sustainability, connectivity, and occupier requirements, and is being developed in compliance with applicable laws, approvals and regulatory framework.

Downtown 66 is envisioned to bring together design-led planning, sustainability discipline and engineering integration. The project includes collaboration with global and domestic consultants, including AEDAS Singapore (Principal Architect & Interior Design), Coopers Hill Singapore (Landscape), Nulty Studio Dubai (Lighting), End Point Dubai (Signage), GreenTree (Green Building), Manish Consultant (Structural Proof), BES (Façade), RSMS (Building Bye-laws), ATN Consultants (Kitchen Design), Sanelac (MEP), RWDI (Wind Tunnel), and Proion (Fire Safety). The development is being planned in alignment with India’s highest seismic considerations of Zone V for high-rise structures, viz-a-viz Zone IV as stipulated by Indian Codes and has received IGBC Platinum pre-certification, based on current design parameters.

NCC Limited has extensive experience across residential, commercial and infrastructure developments and will lead project execution in line with the defined scope of work. NCC is also engaged by other real estate developers in the region for their marquee residential and commercial projects.

About BPTP

BPTP Limited is a real estate developer with over two decades of operations in the Delhi-NCR region. The Company has delivered numerous residential and commercial projects across multiple locations in NCR, including group housings, plotted developments and integrated townships.

Pepe Jeans London, the iconic denim lifestyle brand known for its international fashion sensibility, announces an exclusive collaboration with Indian cricket star Shreyas Iyer, in association with ELLE India. The partnership brings together sport, style, and contemporary culture, positioning Shreyas Iyer as a natural extension of the brand’s confident and evolving aesthetic.

Shreyas Iyer styled in Pepe Jeans in association with ELLE

The collaboration presents a series of elevated casual looks that blend classic denim with modern silhouettes, from timeless double-denim styles to relaxed, refined fits. Shot in a clean, editorial-style setting, the campaign captures Iyer’s effortless presence, where comfort meets confidence, and versatility defines everyday style.

Reflecting his personal approach to fashion, the edit subtly mirrors a sense of ease, adaptability, and understated confidence, qualities that resonate with both his on-field persona and off-duty wardrobe.

Shreyas embodies the spirit of modern India, confident, expressive, and constantly evolving. His style aligns seamlessly with the brand’s focus on individuality and contemporary fashion, making this collaboration a natural fit. Through this association with ELLE India, the brand aims to create a strong cultural moment at the intersection of sport and style.

With this collaboration, Pepe Jeans London continues to strengthen its cultural relevance in India, aligning with influential voices who bridge sport and lifestyle with authenticity.

You can watch the video here: youtube.com/shorts/Y8WYCjo1aCo?si=eICH1Be49oaXuGNs

About Pepe Jeans London

Pepe Jeans London was born on London’s iconic Portobello Road in 1973. Today, over 50 years later, the brand remains devoted to its initial mantra and pledge to create the world’s most exciting denim-led fashion. The diversity and mix of cultures that define the city of London also define the Pepe Jeans personality, providing a constant source of inspiration for the women’s, men’s, and junior collections. Music, Culture, Fashion, London, and Denim, that’s what Pepe Jeans is all about.

Pepper successfully hosted INDEX’26, its flagship GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) Growth Summit, bringing together over 200 senior marketing and AI leaders for a closed-door, operator-led conversation on what is truly driving measurable demand in an AI-first world.

(L- R) Anirudh Singla, Co – founder and CEO of Pepper, Vamshi Sriperumbudur, Former Palo Alto Networks SASE CMO, Kishan Panpalia, Founding Team of Pepper & Rishabh Shekhar, Co-founder and COO of Pepper

INDEX’26 featured a distinguished lineup of global leaders at the forefront of marketing, AI, and technology. The event opened with a keynote by Dane Vahey, Head of B2B at OpenAI, followed by Alexandra London, CMO at G2.

The summit witnessed overwhelming demand, with registrations closing at 2.5 times capacity and over 80 professionals waitlisted—achieved entirely without paid promotion. This strong organic response signals a growing urgency among enterprises to understand and adapt to AI-led discovery and visibility.

Anirudh Singla, Co-founder & CEO, Pepper said, “INDEX’26 was never meant to be another marketing conference—it was designed as a room for operators who are actively rethinking growth in an AI-first world. What we saw in San Francisco validates a much larger shift: enterprises are no longer asking if AI will change discovery, but how fast they need to adapt to it. The level of demand, the depth of conversations, and the quality of leaders in the room—from platforms like OpenAI, LinkedIn, and Reddit—signal that Generative Engine Optimization is moving from concept to implementation. INDEX is our way of building a global movement around this shift—grounded in real insights, real operators, and real outcomes.”

An ecosystem panel featuring Dev Khare of Lightspeed Ventures, Sid Arora from LinkedIn, and DJ Capobianco of Reddit explored how shifting market dynamics are redefining growth strategies. The conference also featured prominent speakers including Joyce Hwang from Dropbox, Heidi Bullock from Marketo, Christine Royston from Wrike, along with Amanda Kahlow, Drew Neisser, Sydney Sloan, Elay Cohen, and AJ Gandhi.

The audience comprised a highly curated group of enterprise decision-makers, including leaders from Salesforce, Nvidia, Intel, Snowflake, Gong, 6sense, Demandbase, JFrog, Zendesk, and Tealium, including CMOs, VPs, and Heads of Marketing.

A key highlight of the summit was Pepper’s Founding member Kishan Panpalia’s GEO research presentation, which drew standing-room-only participation. The session drove exceptional engagement, with over 500 screenshots captured by attendees across a 20-slide presentation—an uncommon response for a research-focused session and a strong indicator of the relevance of GEO frameworks.

Reflecting on the broader shift, Dev Khare remarked, “It’s not marketing that’s changing—it’s market structures.” This insight resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the need for organizations to rethink not just tactics, but the fundamental systems driving demand.

Within 24 hours of the event, industry leaders including Claire Darling, Genefa Murphy, Anand Akela, Meghan Keough, Sandra Lopez, Karen Brewer, and David DeJonghe shared organic, unsolicited feedback on LinkedIn, calling INDEX’26 one of the highest-quality marketing conferences of the year.

INDEX’26 stands as a testament to the power of conviction-led community building. Without the backing of large-scale funding or agency amplification, Pepper successfully brought together global technology platforms and enterprise leaders in one room—driven purely by relevance, insight, and industry trust.

Building on the momentum from San Francisco, INDEX’26 will next take place in New York City on May 27, as Pepper continues to expand its global footprint and lead the conversation on AI-first growth and GEO adoption.

fischer India continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner in the construction and installation systems industry with the launch of its new and improved FUS-C Channel—a product engineered to deliver maximum performance. This latest innovation reflects fischer’s commitment to bringing superior German technology to the Indian market while aligning closely with the country’s growing demand for cost-efficient, high-performance solutions.

fischer FUS C-Channel

The FUS-C Channel has been designed as the next evolution in mounting rail systems, replacing the existing fischer U-Channel with a more advanced and globally aligned solution. Built with precision engineering and enhanced features, the FUS-C sets new standards in performance, safety, and versatility.

Key highlights of the new FUS-C Channel include:

• Internationally standardized geometry ensuring compatibility across applications

• Tighter tolerances and optimized angular design for enhanced structural safety

• Increased serration depth to support higher load-bearing capacity

• Comprehensive size availability to meet diverse project requirements

• Cost-efficient design without compromising on performance

At the core of this innovation is the introduction of Zinc-Magnesium coating, offering a significant advancement over traditional zinc coatings:

• Superior corrosion resistance for extended durability

• No additional treatment required on cutting edges

• Higher protection with lesser coating thickness compared to traditional coatings

• More economical and environmentally sustainable than conventional galvanization

• One versatile solution suitable for multiple applications, simplifying inventory decisions

The FUS-C Channel is not just a product upgrade—it is a strategic move to provide engineers, consultants, and contractors with a reliable, future-ready solution that delivers both performance and value.

fischer India has also inaugurated a new production facility in Bangalore, Karnataka, further strengthening its commitment to the Indian market. The new plant plays a crucial role as an enabler—allowing fischer to respond faster and more effectively to customer needs across India.

Speaking on the occasion, fischer India Managing Director Mr. Mayank Kalra said, “This new facility is a significant step forward in our journey towards building a stronger, more agile fischer India. By enhancing our local manufacturing capabilities, we are not only improving speed and efficiency but also reinforcing our commitment to ‘Make in India’ for India with German quality standards. This investment reflects our long-term vision of being closer to our customers, supporting their evolving needs, and driving sustainable growth in the construction and installation systems industry.”

With the introduction of the FUS-C Channel and the support of local manufacturing, fischer India is well-positioned to offer:

• Faster product availability

• Improved service levels and responsiveness

• Streamlined supply chains

• Consistent global quality with local adaptability

This dual approach—innovation-led product development supported by localized production—demonstrates fischer India’s focused strategy to serve the evolving demands of the Indian construction ecosystem.

As infrastructure growth accelerates across the country, fischer’s latest offering ensures that customers benefit from cutting-edge technology, cost efficiency, and dependable performance, all delivered with the assurance of a brand that stands for precision, reliability, and innovation.

fischer Building Materials India Private Limited

Ward No. 76, Unit 101, First Level, New No. 3, Old No. 4, Prestige Sigma, Vittal Mallya Rd, Richmond Town, Bengaluru- 560001, Karnataka

Galgotias University hosted the 9th edition of the SIEP E-Bike Challenge from April 3 to April 7, 2026, bringing together engineering students and innovators from across India to compete in sustainable mobility solutions. Organized by the Imperial Society of Innovative Engineers (ISIE INDIA) under its SIEP (Skill, Innovation & Employability Program) initiative in collaboration with Galgotias University, the national-level event attracted more than 350 participants and 23 teams from multiple states including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, and Uttarakhand.
 

Students showcase electric bike innovations at the national SIEP E-Bike Challenge hosted by Galgotias University
 

The competition was centered on electric bikes, with participants designing, developing, and testing functional E-Bike prototypes with a strong focus on energy efficiency, innovation, performance, and real-world applicability. The challenge served as a dynamic platform for young engineers to demonstrate technical capabilities, creativity, and problem-solving skills while addressing critical energy and mobility concerns.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vinod Gupta, Founder and President of ISIEINDIA, emphasized the importance of industry-aligned student innovation in addressing global energy challenges. Sharing the university’s perspective, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “At a time when geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region continue to impact global energy supply chains and fuel stability, the need for sustainable and self-reliant mobility solutions has become more urgent than ever. Initiatives like the SIEP E-Bike Challenge empower young innovators to develop practical, scalable alternatives that can reduce dependency on conventional fuels and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future.”
 

The inaugural session was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Sh. Sushil Kumar Agarwal, Regional Director, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India; Mr. Rajiv E, Executive Director (International), Automobile Centre of Excellence; Dr. Ajay Shrivastav, CEO, Anexion Transformation; and Mr. Nitin Khindria, CHRO, Omega Seiki Mobility. Their presence added significance to the event’s larger mission of aligning academic learning with industry requirements and national priorities in clean mobility and skill development.

The challenge also brought together participants from leading institutions across the country, including DIT University, Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Amrutvahini College of Engineering, Raj Kumar Goel Institute of Technology, JSS Academy of Technical Education, VNRVJIET, Shree Rayeshwar Institute, Pimpri Chinchwad College, Muthoot Institute, RVR and JC College of Engineering, St. Joseph’s College, Sri Ramakrishna Institute, Zeal College, A. P. Shah Institute, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College, KL University, Jabalpur Engineering College, and RV College of Engineering. Through the development of functional and energy-efficient E-Bike prototypes, students gained industry-ready exposure while contributing ideas that address fuel dependency and environmental sustainability.
 

As teams tested their E-Bikes in real-time conditions on campus, the event reflected the growing importance of clean energy innovation, sustainable transportation, and student-led engineering solutions. By hosting the SIEP E-Bike Challenge, Galgotias University continues to strengthen its commitment to experiential learning, industry engagement, and innovation-driven education while supporting India’s transition toward a cleaner and more efficient future.
 

For more information, please visit www.galgotiasuniversity.edu.in.

Ai+ Smartphone today launched the Nova Series, marking its most ambitious launch yet, alongside its first tablet, new audio products, and expanded wearables lineup bringing together a fully connected ecosystem built around simplicity, privacy, and everyday usability.

Ai+ unveils the Nova Series, Nova 2, Nova 2 Ultra, and Nova Flip, combining design, performance, and accessibility in one ecosystem

At the centre are three distinct 5G smartphones Nova 2, Nova 2 Ultra, and Nova Flip each designed for a different user, but united by a single belief: premium technology should be accessible, reliable, and worth carrying every day.

“We built Ai+ on a simple conviction that great technology should not come with trade-offs. Pulse 1 and Nova 5G proved that users value trust, simplicity, and consistency. With over one million users in under a year, the response has been clear. The Nova Series, and everything we are launching alongside it, is our strongest expression yet of that belief,” said Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone & Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies.

Nova Series: Three Devices, Three Distinct Expressions
The Nova Series places camera and design at the centre of the experience, not as features, but as fundamentals.

• Nova 2 is built for everyday reliability featuring a 50MP camera for natural, sharp images, a 6000mAh battery for all-day use, and full dual-mode 5G support. Available in five colours – Purple, Green, Pink, Blue, and Black, each designed to reflect a distinct mood.

• Nova 2 Ultra is the most complete expression of the lineup featuring a Sony IMX752 50MP camera with OIS, MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset, VC cooling, and design-led customisation, including dynamic lighting that responds to calls, messages, and more.

• Nova Flip brings back personality into smartphones with a nostalgic flip form factor, a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, 32MP front camera, and Glacier White finish inspired by Pantone’s Cloud Dancer.

All three devices run on Android 16 with NxtQuantum OS, offering a clean, consistent experience and real-time transparency through the NxtPrivacy Dashboard.

• Nova 2: Sale starts April 14, from Rs. 8,999

• Nova 2 Ultra: Sale starts April 17, from Rs. 14,999*

• Nova Flip: Launching May, priced at Rs. 29,999*

(All products to be available on Flipkart and select retail outlets)

PulseTab: Entering the Tablet Segment
Ai+ also introduced PulseTab, its first tablet and a new pillar in the connected ecosystem.

Built for everyday use, PulseTab features a 10.95-inch FHD 90Hz display, quad speakers, dual SIM + Wi-Fi support, and a design that is clean, portable, and practical. PulseTab goes on sale in May on Flipkart and select retail outlets, priced at Rs. 9,999.

Expanding the Ai+ Ecosystem
The launch also strengthens Ai+’s ecosystem across audio and wearables:

• NovaPod Beats – performance-focused audio with ANC, 13mm drivers, and health tracking

• NovaPods Air – everyday TWS with 22-hour playback and clear calling

• RotateCam 4G – a smartwatch with a rotating camera, standalone calling, GPS, and app ecosystem

NovaPod Beats: Rs. 1,599 | NovaPods Air: Rs. 899 | RotateCam 4G: Rs. 4,999 and will go on sale in May on Flipkart and select retail outlets. 

Everything launched today from Nova Series to PulseTab and beyond reflects a single idea: Technology should not complicate life. It should fit into it. With a growing ecosystem, Ai+ is moving from individual products to a connected experience, one that is accessible, expressive, and built for real everyday use.

Nova Series — Key Specifications: