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AIM Global Foundation Strengthens UAE–India Investment Dialogue Ahead of AIM Congress 2026

AIM Global Foundation advanced its engagement with India’s investment and business community during a visit by its Chairman, Dawood Al Shezawi, from 5 to 8 August 2026. Conducted as part of the Foundation’s international roadshow, the visit supported preparations for the 15th edition of AIM Congress, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

 

During the visit, Al Shezawi met senior government officials and leaders representing major conglomerates, private enterprises, chambers of commerce, and business and industry associations. The discussions focused on strengthening investment cooperation, connecting Indian businesses with international opportunities, and exploring partnerships across advanced manufacturing, technology, startups, sustainable infrastructure, trade, and the digital economy.

 

The engagements build on the expanding economic partnership between the UAE and India. The UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed on 18 February 2022 and in force since 1 May 2022, has established a wider framework for trade, investment, and private-sector collaboration.

 

According to India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, bilateral trade crossed USD 100.06 billion in the 2024–25 financial year, recording growth of 19.6%. In January 2026, the two countries agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade to USD 200 billion by 2032, reflecting the scale of their shared economic ambitions.

 

AIM Congress provides a global platform through which Indian investors, companies, entrepreneurs, and institutions can engage with policymakers, investment promotion agencies, sovereign and institutional investors, international organisations, and business leaders from across the world. The India roadshow forms part of AIM Global Foundation’s efforts to broaden international participation and facilitate investment partnerships across established and emerging markets.

 

Taking place from 7 to 9 September 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, AIM Congress is held under the theme, “Reshaping Global Prosperity: Unlocking New Investment Pathways Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Future.” Its agenda is structured around three principal pillars: Global Markets, Future Economies, and NexGen.

 

For more information and registration, visit www.aimcongress.com.

Agoda Reveals Europe's 2026 Summer Travel Interest to Asia: Searches to India Climb

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its ranking of European travel interest to Asia, based on accommodation search data from April to June 2026 for travel during July and August. India emerged as the fastest-growing destination, recording a 14 percent year-on-year increase in searches compared to the same period last year.

 

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Agoda Reveals Europe’s 2026 Summer Travel Interest to Asia: Searches to India climb


The United Kingdom was the largest European market driving travel interest to India, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Italy, based on accommodation search volumes.


While these markets saw the highest overall travel interest, several emerging European markets recorded notable year-on-year growth in accommodation searches compared to 2025. Slovakia led with a 148 percent increase, followed by Croatia at 128 percent and Ireland at 88 percent.


For Europeans, July and August mark the height of summer and a peak travel period, when schools break and holiday plans come to life. In 2026, Thailand retains its crown as the most-searched Asian destination among European travelers for the second consecutive year, Indonesia shifts to second place, and Japan takes third.


Across the top 20 destinations, India saw the most notable year-on-year growth in European searches at 14percent , followed by South Korea at 13 percent  and Vietnam at 12 percent . These three markets stand out as the region’s fastest rising European summer travel interest, pointing to a growing appetite for diverse itineraries beyond Asia’s traditional hotspots.


Among destinations within India, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa emerged as the most-searched cities among European travelers for summer 2026. As India’s primary international gateways, New Delhi and Mumbai serve as key metropolitan hubs that connect travelers to destinations across the country while also offering rich cultural, culinary, and urban experiences. Complementing these gateway cities, Goa continues to attract European visitors with its beaches, vibrant hospitality scene, and laid-back coastal charm.


New Delhi attracts travelers with its rich history, iconic monuments, and vibrant cultural heritage, while Mumbai continues to draw visitors with its cosmopolitan energy, culinary scene, and entertainment offerings. Goa remains a perennial favourite for its beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and unique mix of Portuguese heritage, nightlife, and coastal experiences, making it one of India’s most sought-after leisure destinations.


Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands, Agoda, said, “India’s growing popularity among European travelers reflects a broader shift in how international visitors are discovering the country. Beyond iconic landmarks, travelers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, wellness retreats, culinary journeys, and nature-led escapes. The strong year-on-year search growth from both established and emerging European markets highlights India’s expanding appeal as a diverse and value-driven destination. At Agoda, we connect travelers to India with great accommodation, flight and activity deals, helping them explore both renowned destinations and lesser-known gems.”


In Europe, the top five origin markets of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Spain remain consistent from 2025 to 2026, a sign that Europe’s most enthusiastic Asia travelers are as keen as ever. However, other European markets have also seen growing interest: Türkiye leads with a 39 percent increase in Asian destination searches, followed by Hungary (22 percent) and Czech Republic (16 percent). This signals that interest in Asian travel is spreading further across the European continent, with Central and Eastern European travelers increasingly joining the Asia-bound wave.


As European travelers finalize their summer plans, Agoda continues to offer seamless bookings across more than six million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities worldwide. To find the best deals for summer travel to Asia and beyond, visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app.


About the Data 
All data is based on accommodation search data on Agoda from 1 April to 30 June 2026, for stays between 1 July and 31 August 2026, compared to the same period in 2025.


About Agoda 
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.


Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), employs over 7,500 people globally, and is dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel easy and affordable.

Big Bang Boom Solutions Delivers Indigenous Fire Fighting Foam to the Indian Navy, Marking a Key Defence Capability

Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS), an Indian deep-tech defence enterprise, today announced the successful development and delivery of its AgniQuell High Expanding Fire Fighting Foam to the Indian Navy’s Material Organisation (MO). The delivery follows a rigorous development procedure funded by an iDex Challenge floated by Indian Navy in association with Defence Innovation Organization (DIO) to provide an indigenous solution to the critical requirement.

 

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Indigenous developed AgniQuell – Fire Fighting Foam demonstration to the Indian Navy by Big Bang Boom Solutions


Engineered for High-Risk Defence and Industrial Applications
Modern naval, defence, and heavy industrial assets demand rapid, zero-compromise emergency response capabilities. Developed entirely through indigenous R&D, AgniQuell addresses critical vulnerabilities in high-risk zones where conventional firefighting methods fall short. Featuring an industry-leading expansion capability of up to 1:1000, AgniQuell transforms a compact volume of foam concentrate into a massive, oxygen-starving blanket of fire-suppression foam within seconds.


Securing and executing this order for the Indian Navy validates the maturity and reliability of our indigenous engineering,” said Dr. Shivaraman R, Co-founder & CTO, Big Bang Boom Solutions. “AgniQuell was built from the ground up to protect critical infrastructure while reducing dependency on foreign technology. As we continue to advance defence tech across multiple domains, this milestone reinforces our commitment to bolstering national self-reliance, operational safety, and long-term value creation for our stakeholders and is the first success of our Material Science team.”


Key Performance Pillars:

  • Instantaneous Oxygen Deprivation – Rapidly suffocates complex liquid and structural fires, halting thermal runaway.

  • Volume-Optimized Coverage – Floods enclosed spaces, machinery rooms, and storage facilities with minimal concentrate requirement.

  • Universal Equipment Compatibility – Seamlessly integrates with all standard and specialized foaming equipment, ensuring zero retrofit delay for existing systems.

  • All-Terrain & Outdoor Versatility – Engineered to maintain structural integrity and suppress fires effectively across both enclosed facilities and open-air, outdoor environments.

  • Resource Preservation – Drastically reduces water consumption, mitigating secondary water damage to sensitive electronic and military hardware.


What This Milestone Means for BBBS’s Growth Trajectory
This Indian Navy delivery is more than a simple contract fulfilled, it is testament to BBBS committed to high quality, R&D and product development. This marks the second product that BBBS has successfully developed, qualified, been contracted for and successfully delivered under the iDex program, making them the flag bearers of this prestigious initiative. With this, BBBS has established a validated, repeatable pathway into a wider set of naval and defence fire-safety programs. The company is in active discussions for follow-on orders and pilot deployments across additional naval installations and defence platforms.


AgniQuell’s design – high expansion ratio, low water and concentrate consumption, and equipment-agnostic deployment – also gives it direct applicability beyond defence, including in industrial sectors such as oil & gas, power generation, aviation, and heavy manufacturing, where fire-suppression infrastructure is a significant and recurring capital spend.


This win adds to BBBS’s growing portfolio of indigenous defence technologies, spanning fire suppression, simulators, anti-drone systems, and specialized autonomous defence platforms – reinforcing the company’s position as a multi-domain deep-tech player in India’s expanding defence manufacturing ecosystem. 


About Big Bang Boom Solutions
Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS) is an Indian deep-tech defence enterprise specializing in the R&D and deployment of advanced technologies for national security and industrial safety. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chennai, India, BBBS has been recognized with over 8 iDex wins, 30+ defence contracts running into 100s of crores from all three services for its work in indigenous defence innovation.


For more information contact Rohit – 9810189253

VELS Awards Rs 3.5 Crore Rupees Scholarships to 4,034 Meritorious Students at 'VELS Success Day 2026'

VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting academic excellence by honouring 4,034 meritorious students with scholarships worth Rs. 3.5 crore during VELS Success Day 2026, held at the university campus on Tuesday.  

 

VELS Awards Rs. 3.5 Crore in Scholarships to 4,034 Meritorious Students at ‘VELS Success Day 2026’


As part of the scholarship programme, this year, the university honoured 345 University Rank Holders, 849 students who secured positions among the top 10% of their respective programmes, 1,640 students who successfully completed SWAYAM and NPTEL courses, and 1,200 VELS scholarship beneficiaries. Altogether, 4,034 deserving students received scholarships and recognition during the event.


Addressing the gathering, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, VELS Group of Institutions, said that VELS Success Day is a celebration of determination, perseverance, and academic excellence. She stated that scholarships worth Rs. 3.5 crore had been awarded to encourage students who had gone beyond the ordinary in their pursuit of excellence.


She emphasised that “Success is not about being better than others; it is about becoming better than yourself every day.” She urged students to strive for continuous self-improvement, reminding them that excellence is sustained only through consistency and dedication. Congratulating the awardees, she encouraged them to view the recognition as the beginning of greater achievements, advising them to continue learning, remain humble, and uphold the values that define true success.


Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. Krishna Balagurunathan, Chief Mentor & Associate Vice President – Early Careers, Hexaware Technologies, Chennai, inspired students to express gratitude to those who contributed to their success. He said that every achievement should first be dedicated to parents for their sacrifices, followed by teachers who shape young minds and friends who inspire individuals to become better every day.


Highlighting the qualities required to succeed in today’s competitive world, he encouraged students to aspire to become the best versions of themselves rather than competing with others. He stressed that strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to express differing opinions respectfully are among the most valued attributes in the professional world. He further noted that organisations today increasingly recruit candidates based on their attitude in addition to technical competence and urged students to think big, remain optimistic, spread positivity, and become role models in society.


The programme was presided over by Dr. M. Bhaskaran, Vice-Chancellor (FAC), VISTAS; Dr. M. Chandrasekaran, Registrar, VISTAS, along with faculty members, parents, and students.


About VELS University
VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) continues to be recognised as one of the best deemed university in Chennai, distinguished by its prestigious NAAC A++ accreditation and UGC Category I status. 


Home to over 20,000 students and supported by a dedicated faculty strength of 1,220 members, VISTAS offers more than 150 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a wide spectrum of disciplines. These include Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Management, Law, Mass Communication, Maritime Studies, Aviation, Physiotherapy, and Computing Sciences, among others. With its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development, VISTAS remains a premier destination for quality higher education in India. 


For more information kindly visit: www.vistas.ac.in

Thomson Pipes Launches 'India Flows Free' Campaign Celebrating India's Progress

What if the pipes that silently carry water across India could, for once, carry the nation’s song? This Independence Day, Thomson Pipes brings that thought to life with “India Flows Free,” an evocative tribute to the uninterrupted flow of India, transforming everyday PVC water pipes into musical flutes and bringing alive a rendition of “Vande Mataram.”

 

India Flows Free

 

YouTube Link:  www.youtu.be/SNGH7rDqV3I


The idea looks at one of India’s most essential yet largely unseen infrastructures in an entirely new way. Pipes run beneath our feet, through our homes, across cities and through the countryside, silently carrying water and sustaining life. They are, in many ways, the Hidden Rivers of the Modern Age. For one day, these hidden rivers found a voice.


The transformation of Thomson PVC pipes into musical instruments was undertaken by Alpha Flutes, traditional flute makers, who experimented with different pipe diameters, lengths and tonal configurations to create specially crafted PVC flutes. The resulting instruments were brought to life by renowned flute artist Vidhu Krishna, who performed the rendition on the specially created flutes, demonstrating how an everyday industrial material could be transformed into an instrument capable of carrying music.


The performance was filmed against the historic Colonial Pier at Alleppey, creating a striking meeting of India’s past, present and future. A structure that once witnessed the movement of goods, people and commerce became the backdrop for a Song of Freedom, this time carried through the sound of pipes.


At the heart of India Flows Free is a simple idea: sometimes, all it takes to discover a new possibility is to look at something familiar differently. A water pipe can carry water. But in the hands of imagination, it can carry music too. What began as a piece of infrastructure became an instrument; what usually remains unseen became visible; and what silently carries water found a way to carry the nation’s emotion. From pipes to flutes. From hidden rivers to a song. From infrastructure to inspiration.


With India Flows Free, Thomson Pipes celebrates Independence Day by giving a voice to the hidden rivers that keep India flowing. The idea was conceived and executed by Jimmy & Jacana, the boutique brand makery, with communication and amplification supported by Trompet Media. The project brings together the worlds of infrastructure, craftsmanship, music and creative imagination in a distinctive tribute to the nation.

Hiranandani Sands Alibaug Debuts Branded Serviced Apartments Under the Fern-Marriott Collaboration

Hiranandani Communities has announced a landmark collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts, under the Series by Marriott collaboration, to introduce branded serviced apartments at Hiranandani Sands, its integrated coastal township in Nagaon, Alibaug. Bringing together three trusted names, Hiranandani Communities, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, and Marriott International, the partnership marks a significant step towards integrating premium residential ownership with globally benchmarked, professionally managed hospitality experiences within a single integrated township.
 

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani and Mr. Suhail Puri during the signing ceremony for the collaboration between Hiranandani Communities and The Fern Hotels & Resorts, a Series by Marriott, in Mumbai
 

The collaboration reflects a broader shift already underway in Indian real estate, one where value is increasingly defined not by space alone, but by the standard of living, service, and experience a home delivers. For Alibaug, long known as a weekend escape from Mumbai, the partnership signals a deliberate reimagining: from a seasonal getaway to a year-round lifestyle destination, backed by international hospitality standards and evolving connectivity and infrastructure.
 

For homeowners, the offering goes beyond traditional real estate ownership. Residences are professionally managed under the Fern-Marriott partnership on a “lock-and-leave” model, an asset-light approach in which units can be rented out through the management company when not in personal use, subject to the applicable management and operating terms.
 

Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman, Hiranandani Communities, said, “India’s homebuyer has evolved. They are no longer just purchasing four walls, they are investing in a way of living, a standard of service, and a lifestyle experience. This collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts and Marriott brings exactly that to Alibaug, globally benchmarked hospitality, integrated seamlessly into a home you own. We’ve always believed real estate should serve the life being lived within it, not just the structure itself. Alibaug is already an established tourism and hospitality destination; with improving connectivity and infrastructure, it is now evolving into a year-round lifestyle and real estate destination, creating a natural bridge between leisure, hospitality and long-term living. This partnership is our commitment to being part of that evolution – for our residents, for guests, and for the local community that will grow alongside it.”
 

Mr. Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, also joined the occasion virtually, marking Marriott International’s participation in the collaboration.
 

Designed as a hospitality-led residential ecosystem, the offering at Hiranandani Sands is built to reduce the traditional dependence on weekend tourism in Alibaug, with the potential to attract long-stay guests, digital nomads and international travellers throughout the year. This shift aims to support more consistent hospitality-led economic activity in the region, rather than the seasonal peaks and troughs that have historically characterised coastal tourism markets in Maharashtra.
 

Beyond individual ownership, the development is designed with a broader community and sustainability mandate — supporting local artisans and craftsmanship, showcasing coastal cuisine and cultural traditions, and encouraging engagement with nearby heritage sites and natural reserves. Sustainability remains integral to the development philosophy, with initiatives focused on green-certified design, renewable energy adoption, water conservation, biodiversity preservation and responsible coastal development.
 

With this collaboration, Hiranandani Communities reinforces a positioning it has held for decades — not merely as a real estate developer, but as an enabler of how India lives, experiences and engages with places. The partnership sets a precedent for integrating global hospitality standards into Indian townships without compromising community impact or environmental responsibility.
 

About Hiranandani Communities

It is one of India’s most respected real estate development companies, known for pioneering integrated township developments across residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, education and healthcare. With over four decades of experience, the company has developed more than 34 million sq. ft. of residential space and 14.74 million sq. ft. of commercial space, with landmark developments in Powai (Mumbai), Thane, Panvel, and Chennai. The Group has consistently set benchmarks in urban planning, sustainable design and community-centric development for over four decades.
 

About Hiranandani Sands, Alibaug

Spread across 225 acres at Nagaon, Alibaug, Hiranandani Sands is a hospitality-centric coastal township initiative by Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, offering an integrated ecosystem of premium residences, branded hospitality and lifestyle amenities designed for coastal living. Envisioned as a year-round coastal lifestyle destination, Hiranandani Sands integrates residential living, hospitality, wellness, leisure and community experiences within a thoughtfully planned ecosystem.

TimbuckDo Partners with IdeaBaaz Startup Fest to Create Rs. 25 Lakh Worth of Earning Opportunities for 100+ Students

TimbuckDo, India’s #1 Student Gig Hub, has partnered with IdeaBaaz Startup Fest as its Workforce Partner, creating Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for more than 100 students over the five-day startup festival being held from August 26-30, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
 

TimbuckDo Partners with IdeaBaaz Startup Fest to Create Rs. 25 Lakh Worth of Earning Opportunities for 100+ Students
 

The partnership marks a significant milestone in TimbuckDo’s journey with IdeaBaaz. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now becoming a partner supporting one of its next major initiatives, TimbuckDo’s evolution reflects its growing role in India’s startup and youth employment ecosystem.
 

As the Workforce Partner, TimbuckDo will facilitate gig opportunities for 100+ students across various roles during the festival, enabling them to earn while gaining first-hand exposure to the startup ecosystem. Through the partnership, TimbuckDo has created Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for students in just five days, demonstrating the potential of gig work to connect young talent with large-scale business and ecosystem opportunities.
 

Through the initiative, students will work alongside startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and other ecosystem stakeholders, gaining a close view of what it takes to build, operate and execute within a large-scale startup environment. The experience will help students develop practical skills while creating a bridge between education and the professional world.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership extends its larger mission to champion student gig work and bring students into the mainstream economy through meaningful real-world opportunities. By enabling students to actively contribute to startup events and ecosystem initiatives, TimbuckDo aims to create a pathway where young talent can learn, earn, and participate in the growth of businesses and entrepreneurial communities.
 

The association also highlights the evolution of TimbuckDo’s relationship with IdeaBaaz. Having previously appeared on IdeaBaaz as a startup seeking funding, TimbuckDo is now contributing to the ecosystem as a partner creating opportunities for the next generation of talent through the same platform that was once part of its own entrepreneurial journey.
 

Commenting on the partnership, Mythri Kumar, Co-founder and CEO, TimbuckDo, said, “IdeaBaaz has been an important part of TimbuckDo’s journey. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now partnering on one of its next big initiatives is a very meaningful milestone for us. Through the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest, we are creating Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for more than 100 students in just five days, allowing them to earn, work, and experience the startup ecosystem from the inside. We believe student gig work can play a powerful role in bringing young talent into the mainstream economy and entrepreneurship ecosystem. When students get the opportunity to work alongside startups and entrepreneurs, they get a close view of what it really takes to build and grow a business. This partnership is about creating meaningful value for students by giving them the opportunity to earn, gain practical experience, build confidence and understand the startup ecosystem from within. We see this as a strong reflection of what TimbuckDo stands for creating opportunities that enable students to learn, earn and grow. We see this as a great value proposition for student onboarding in September.”
 

Jeet Wagh & Mudit Kumar, Co-founders, IdeaBaaz, said, “Seeing TimbuckDo, one of the startups from Season 1, now come on board as the Workforce Partner for the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest is a full-circle moment for us. It reflects what we have always believed at IdeaBaaz our relationship with founders should not end when the show does. As we take IdeaBaaz from the screen to a live startup ecosystem in Delhi, it is exciting to have founders from our first season become partners in building what comes next. This partnership with TimbuckDo echoes our commitment to staying invested in the startup ecosystem and creating opportunities for founders beyond the show.”
 

The partnership makes students active participants in the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest rather than passive attendees. By contributing to the execution of the festival, students will gain exposure to the people, processes, and opportunities that shape the startup ecosystem.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership represents a broader vision for how student gig work can become an entry point into the professional world helping students build practical experience, understand entrepreneurship up close and develop the skills and networks needed to navigate the world of work.
 

The partnership brings together students, startups, entrepreneurs and the wider startup ecosystem, creating a model where young talent can earn, learn and contribute while businesses and ecosystem platforms gain access to a new generation of talent.
 

About TimbuckDo
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Bengaluru, TimbuckDo Innovations Pvt Ltd is a student gig and growth platform that empowers India’s youth to earn, learn, and grow. Co-founded by Mythri Kumar and Apoorv Sharma Prasad, the company connects students with verified part-time gigs, internships, and project-based opportunities while also offering financial literacy tools, lifestyle benefits, and upskilling resources. TimbuckDo’s mission is to bridge the gap between education and employability by creating a trusted ecosystem where students gain practical exposure, financial independence, and career readiness during their academic journey.

Chitkara University and Paramotor Digital Technology Limited Come Together to Build Future-Ready Fintech Talent

Chitkara University and Paramotor Digital Technology Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Sonia Asher Centre of Excellence in Future Technologies and Innovation, aimed at preparing students for the rapidly evolving technology and fintech ecosystem.

 

Chitkara University signs MOU with Paramotor Digital Technology Limited to establish the Sonia Asher Centre of Excellence in Future Technologies and Innovation

 

The Centre will bring together students and faculty across engineering, business, design, mass communication and law, providing exposure to emerging technologies, industry practices, real-world applications and interdisciplinary learning.

 

Through this initiative, Paramotor will bring its industry experience into the learning environment via mentorship, workshops, hackathons, practitioner interactions and industry projects. Students will gain practical exposure to areas such as digital payments, fintech platforms, AI, data science and technology-enabled financial services, helping bridge the gap between academic learning and industry applications.

 

Expressing her opinion at the inauguration, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co- Founder of Chitkara University, said, “Technology is reshaping the financial landscape at an unprecedented pace, and preparing students for this transformation requires more than academic knowledge; it demands meaningful engagement with industry, real-world problem-solving and an interdisciplinary perspective. The Sonia Asher Centre of Excellence in Future Technologies and Innovation reflects our commitment to creating learning ecosystems where students can engage with emerging technologies, understand their applications and develop the confidence to innovate. Through this collaboration with Paramotor Digital Technology Limited, we aim to equip our students with the skills, adaptability and future-oriented mindset needed to contribute meaningfully to the evolving fintech and technology ecosystem.”

 

Sonia Asher, Executive Chairperson and Whole-Time Director, Paramotor Digital Technology Limited, said, “Fintech needs talent that can connect technology with real-world problems. Through this Centre, we hope to help students build the skills and perspective needed to shape what comes next.”

 

The initiative will also support faculty development, student projects, innovation programmes and industry interaction. Internship and employment opportunities, where applicable, will remain subject to defined selection and performance criteria.

 

The Centre aims to bring academia and industry closer, giving students practical perspectives and exposure that can help prepare them for opportunities across the evolving fintech and technology landscape.

 

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

 

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

 

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

 

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in

Axis Max Life Recognised for Workplace Inclusion and Safety with POSH Pioneer Award 2026

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (“Axis Max Life” / “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Limited, has been conferred with the prestigious POSH Pioneer Award at the 4th National Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Conclave & Excellence Awards 2026 organised by NoMeansNo Foundation, in recognition of its commitment to fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

 

Axis Max Life Recognised for Workplace Inclusion and Safety with POSH Pioneer Award 2026


The conclave brought together over 250 delegates from government, judiciary, industry, human resources, law, academia and the wider POSH ecosystem for a day of insightful dialogue, knowledge sharing and recognition of organisations championing workplace safety and inclusion.


The POSH Pioneer Award honours organisations that have introduced innovative and impactful practices that strengthen workplace dignity, employee trust and POSH implementation. organisations that have moved beyond compliance to create workplaces where respect, inclusion and accountability are embedded into everyday culture inspiring others across India to follow. This recognition has been conferred after a comprehensive evaluation process by an independent Jury against pre-defined assessment criteria, considering the impact, innovation, sustainability, and contribution made towards creating safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. It recognises an organisation’s commitment to advancing the principles and spirit of the POSH Act and moving beyond compliance towards building a culture of dignity and respect.


Priyanka Mitra, Head Distribution HR, Diversity & Inclusion Axis Max Life Insurance, said, “At Axis Max Life, fostering a workplace built on trust, respect and inclusion is fundamental to who we are as an organisation. Receiving the POSH Pioneer Award is a meaningful recognition of our continued commitment to creating a safe and equitable environment where every employee feels valued, heard and empowered to thrive. We believe that cultivating a culture of dignity and accountability goes beyond compliance, it requires sustained awareness, strong leadership commitment and collective responsibility. We will continue to strengthen our people practices and nurture a workplace where everyone can contribute with confidence and authenticity.”


The conclave marked several significant milestones in advancing workplace safety and awareness across the country. The event commenced with an inaugural keynote address by Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, Secretary, Department of Women & Child Development, Government of NCT of Delhi.


The event culminated with the presentation of the National POSH Excellence Awards, recognising organisations and leaders that have set benchmarks in fostering respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplaces. The recognition of Axis Max Life as a POSH Pioneer Award recipient reflects the Company’s continued focus on strengthening workplace policies, promoting awareness, and cultivating a culture where every employee is empowered to thrive with dignity, trust, and confidence.


About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (the “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a subsidiary of Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) with Axis Bank Limited and its affiliates also being shareholders of the Company. Axis Max Life offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party partners. The Company has built its operations on a need-based sales process, a customer centric engagement model and trained human capital. As per audited financials for FY2025-26, Axis Max Life recorded a gross written premium of INR 38,877 crore. 


IRDAI Registration. No – 104 
Company Identification Number – U74899HR2000PLC143012

India's Food & Beverage Growth Story Attracts Strong Global Participation as Anuga Select India 2026 Strengthens International Trade Partnerships

India’s growing importance in the global food and beverage industry will take centre stage at Anuga Select India 2026, as international food businesses, country pavilions, buyers and industry stakeholders come together for three days of sourcing, trade, innovation and business networking.
 

India’s Food & Beverage Growth Story Attracts Strong Global Participation as Anuga Select India 2026 Strengthens International Trade Partnerships
 

A key highlight of the 2026 edition is the European Union (EU) participating as the Official Country Partner, bringing Europe’s diverse agri-food ecosystem to India and creating opportunities for greater market access, sourcing and business collaboration between European suppliers and the Indian food and beverage industry.
 

Europe Takes Centre Stage as Official Partner Region

The EU Pavilion will showcase the breadth of European agri-food excellence, highlighting the quality, authenticity, food safety, traceability, sustainability and innovation associated with European food systems.
 

The pavilion will present a diverse range of food categories, including dairy and cheese, bakery and confectionery ingredients, meat and processed meat products, cereals and grain-based products, specialty agricultural products, premium food ingredients, sustainable food solutions and authentic regional European foods.
 

Through product showcases, tastings and knowledge-sharing opportunities, the EU presence will give Indian buyers, importers, distributors, retailers and HoReCa professionals an opportunity to discover European products, understand their provenance and explore new sourcing possibilities.
 

The participation of the European Union further strengthens Anuga Select India’s role as a platform connecting international food suppliers with India’s expanding food and beverage market, while providing businesses with opportunities to build long-term commercial relationships.
 

A Truly International Food & Beverage Showcase

Alongside the EU, 12+ countries will participate through international country pavilions and exhibitors, bringing a wide spectrum of global food products, ingredients, innovations and sourcing opportunities to Mumbai.
 

Participating countries include Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the Philippines, South Korea, China, Türkiye, Spain, Indonesia, Brazil, Italy, Germany and Georgia.
 

From Asian food innovation and tropical and processed food products to European culinary heritage, Middle Eastern food and agricultural initiatives, and the diverse agricultural strengths of Latin America, the international pavilions will give Indian buyers direct access to suppliers and products from some of the world’s key food-producing and exporting markets.
 

The international presence also reflects the growing demand for global food products, premium ingredients, international cuisines and new sourcing opportunities across India’s retail, food service, hospitality and food manufacturing sectors.
 

Anuga Select India 2026: Connecting Global Suppliers with India

With 400+ exhibitors, representation from 45+ countries and more than 13,500 sqm of exhibition space, Anuga Select India 2026 will bring together the key segments of the food and beverage value chain at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai.
 

The exhibition is designed to connect importers and exporters, distributors and wholesalers, retail chains and modern trade buyers, HoReCa professionals, food manufacturers, food service operators, industry associations, policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs.
 

Beyond product discovery and international sourcing, Anuga Select India will provide a platform to identify emerging food trends, discover innovative products and ingredients, explore new markets and develop strategic business partnerships.
 

Dedicated industry features, curated networking opportunities and buyer-focused initiatives will further support meaningful connections between exhibitors and decision-makers across the food and beverage ecosystem.
 

A Growing Global Platform for Food Trade

The increasing international participation at Anuga Select India 2026 reflects the growing opportunities within India’s food and beverage market and the importance of creating platforms that connect domestic demand with global supply.
 

With the European Union as Official Partner Region and international participation spanning Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, the 2026 edition will offer buyers a concentrated view of global food markets while giving international suppliers access to one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse food economies.
 

Anuga Select India 2026 will take place from 29 September to 1 October 2026 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, bringing the international food and beverage community together to discover products, build partnerships and shape the future of food trade.
 

To be part of this leading food and beverage industry gathering, register as a visitor – register.anuga-india.com/?utm_source=DigitalPR.
 

Explore more about Anuga Select India 2026, including its exhibitors, features and programme – anuga-india.com.
 

Anuga Select India 2026

29 September – 1 October 2026

Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai