For many families across Cuttack and neighbouring villages, a critical medical scan once meant long journeys, anxious waiting and precious time lost. With the inauguration of Project SWASTHYA KIRAN at the Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research Hospital (SSCASRH), Cuttack, that is set to change.

Advanced diagnostics, timely care, healthier communities

The project marks the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Revolution™ Aspire Select CT Scanner, significantly expanding the hospital’s capacity to diagnose critical conditions across specialties including neurology, cardiology, oncology, trauma care and emergency medicine. The transformative upgrade is expected to benefit thousands of patients every year, particularly those facing life-threatening conditions such as stroke, trauma and cancer – where every minute counts.

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging continues to be a challenge for many communities in Odisha. Patients often travel long distances or endure extended waiting periods for CT scans, delaying diagnosis and treatment. In emergencies, such delays can have serious consequences, making timely access to advanced imaging an essential component of quality healthcare. By strengthening diagnostic infrastructure at SSCASRH, Project SWASTHYA KIRAN addresses this critical gap, ensuring that advanced diagnostic services are available closer to the communities that need them most.

Project SWASTHYA KIRAN is the outcome of a partnership between Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd. (HURL) and The Art of Living Social Projects, formalised through an MoU signed at the Art of Living International Center, Bengaluru, in the presence of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Guided by Gurudev’s vision of compassionate service and holistic well-being, the partnership brings together advanced technology and selfless service to make quality diagnostic healthcare more accessible to underserved communities.

The initiative will:

• Improve timely access to diagnostics by reducing travel and waiting time, ensuring patients receive critical imaging faster – especially during emergencies such as stroke and trauma.

• Make advanced diagnostics more affordable by providing high-quality CT scanning services closer to home, easing the financial burden on rural and underserved communities.

• Strengthen emergency care by enabling quicker, more accurate diagnosis, supporting earlier medical intervention and improving patient outcomes.

Beyond emergency medicine, the enhanced diagnostic capability will strengthen the hospital’s ability to deliver more effective care across a range of clinical specialties. Faster, more precise imaging will help clinicians make informed treatment decisions, improve continuity of care, and reinforce SSCASRH’s role as an important healthcare institution serving Cuttack and surrounding communities.

Project SWASTHYA KIRAN is more than the commissioning of advanced medical technology – it is an investment in healthier communities. By bringing timely diagnosis, quality healthcare and renewed hope closer to home, the initiative reflects the shared vision of HURL and The Art of Living Social Projects to ensure that quality healthcare reaches those who need it most.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living, founded by humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is committed to transforming lives through community-centred initiatives. Working across healthcare, conservation of water resources, education, women empowerment, and environmental restoration, it partners with governments, NGOs, corporations, and local communities to bring meaningful change. Through its compassionate, service-driven approach, The Art of Living continues to strengthen well-being and nurture a culture of peace and responsibility worldwide.

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• In addition to families in India, support under the humanitarian rehabilitation package also reached the family of the deceased worker in Sri Lanka

• Daughter of deceased worker from Mau, Uttar Pradesh, was offered support to pursue nursing and future job opportunity in the UAE

The Rs. 2.6 crore humanitarian relief package announced by UAE-Based Indian entrepreneur Dr Shamsheer Vayalil for families affected by Dubai’s Emirates Road tragedy has reached the homes of deceased workers in India’s Telangana and Uttar Pradesh.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil’s representatives hand over support to the parents of late Thirupathi Gollapally in Telangana

The relief initiative follows a road accident that occurred in Dubai in June, when a minibus carrying workers collided with a stationary truck, leaving seven dead and nine injured. The victims were later identified as migrant workers, and the accident prompted grief and support efforts across the UAE and India.

Family of late Abdul Rasheed at their home in Kopaganj, Uttar Pradesh

Representatives from Dr. Shamsheer’s office visited the families of the six Indian workers who died in the accident. They traveled across rural Telangana and Uttar Pradesh to meet the bereaved families, convey their condolences and support, and hand over the financial assistance. A representative also visited the family of the Sri Lankan worker who lost his life in the accident.

Under the humanitarian recovery program, the family of each deceased worker is receiving Rs. 26 lakh. Further education support for children from the affected families is being assessed and will be coordinated directly with the families.

Support Reaches Rural homes in Telangana

The three workers from Telangana were Saleem Sayyed Hussain, 51, from Namilikonda in Jagitial district, Abdul Rafiq Abdul Raheem, 37, from Kaddam in Nirmal district, and Thirupathi Gollapally Chandraiah, 23, from Thakkallapalle in Jagitial district.

Saleem is survived by his wife, Sayyad Goreebee, and three children. Family members said he had gone to the UAE around two-and-a-half months ago to build a better home and support his children’s education. One of his children has health-related challenges, while marriage discussions had begun for his elder daughter.

Thirupathi’s parents spoke about the hopes they had placed in their son, who had gone to the UAE for the first time around seven months ago. He would call home and speak about adjusting to work and life abroad, including the challenges of outdoor work.

Abdul Rafiq is survived by his wife, Raziya Begum, and their young daughter, Rida Fathima. His family and villagers remember him as a warm and helpful person. His father, Abdul Rahan, who had lost two other children in a road accident in Telangana in 2015, said the latest tragedy has left the family struggling to rebuild life once again.

Families in UP Recall Unfinished Dreams

In Uttar Pradesh, the visits covered the families of Abdul Rasheed Zakir Husain, 38, from Kopaganj in Mau district, Markandey Chauhan Bhajjan Chauhan, 39, from Khurahat in Mau district, and Mohammad Saqib Liyaqat Ali, 31, from Sahaspur in Bijnor district.

In Khurahat, Mau, Markandey’s family recalled his long years of work in the Gulf and his dreams for his children. He is survived by his wife, Sarswati Devi, and three children, including 17-year-old Ankita Chauhan, who recently completed Grade 12.

During the visit, Dr. Shamsheer, Founder and Chairman of VPS Health, connected with the family over a video call. When Ankita shared that she wished to pursue BSc Nursing, Dr. Shamsheer said, “We will support you to complete your education. Study well and complete the course. We will be happy to bring you here after that. Markandey ji will be remembered every day through you.”

At Kopaganj, Abdul Rasheed’s family said he had left home exactly two months before the news of the accident reached them. He is survived by his wife, Farida Khatoon, and three young daughters.

“He had told us this would be his last journey abroad to find a job, and that once he returned, he would not go again,” said Mohammed Aamir, his wife’s brother.

The family said Abdul Rasheed wanted to educate his children and improve the small house in which they currently live.

In Sahaspur, Bijnor, Mohammad Saqib’s family said he had gone to Dubai for the first time around eight months ago after working as an aluminium fabricator. He hoped to support his mother and sisters and stayed on despite challenges, hoping the UAE would help him build stability for the family.

The support also reached Sri Lanka, where a representative from Dr. Shamsheer’s office traveled from Colombo to Mullaitivu district to meet the family of Samuvel Rengasami, 34, the sole breadwinner of his family. He is survived by his wife, Rajarathnaraja Jeevarani, and a young daughter.

Nine Injured Workers Also Receive Financial Assistance

Financial support has also been extended to the nine injured survivors in coordination with the workers’ employer, with the amount distributed based on the severity of their injuries and recovery needs. Among the injured survivors, eight are Indian nationals, including three from Uttar Pradesh, two from Rajasthan, and one each from Kerala, Telangana, and Bihar. One injured worker is a Nepali national. Four of them received the amount in the UAE, while three others who are currently in India have had the support transferred to their accounts. Two critically injured workers, who are still undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dubai, have also received the support in their accounts.

Drone technology has the potential to bring about a major transformation in the lives of rural India, farmers and the country’s youth, said Shri Tarun Chugh, National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), while addressing National Drone Summit 2026 as the Chief Guest.

Tarun Chugh

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tarun Chugh said that India today stands as a strong global power and that drones are no longer just a modern technology. They have become an effective tool for making agriculture more scientific, strengthening the rural economy and creating new opportunities for the country’s youth. He emphasised that the true purpose of development will be fulfilled only when the benefits of modern technology reach every village.

He said the use of drones in agriculture has the potential to transform farming through crop monitoring, precision spraying of fertilisers and pesticides and reducing operational costs. According to him, these advancements will improve agricultural productivity, enable better utilisation of resources and make farming more modern and profitable.

Highlighting the role of India’s youth, Shri Tarun Chugh said they are the country’s greatest strength. He noted that skill development and specialised training in drone technology can create new opportunities for employment and self-employment for millions of young people. Technology, he said, becomes truly meaningful only when it empowers youth to become self-reliant and brings positive change to their lives.

He further said that cooperation has been a strong foundation of India’s development journey and that the time has come to integrate it with advanced technology. He said such efforts can help take modern technology to villages, empower farmers and create new economic opportunities at the grassroots.

Speaking about the wider applications of drones, Shri Tarun Chugh said that their importance extends beyond agriculture into disaster management, healthcare, infrastructure, security, logistics and public services. He stressed that India should strengthen its global position by promoting innovation and skill development across these sectors.

Concluding his address, Shri Tarun Chugh said that the partnership between technology and cooperation will play a vital role in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Referring to the summit’s theme, “From Policy to Prosperity,” he said it is not merely the theme of the conference but a practical roadmap for New India’s development, where ensuring that the benefits of modern technology reach the last person in society remains the highest priority.

He congratulated Drone Tech Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) for successfully organising the summit and expressed confidence that such initiatives would give a new direction to India’s drone ecosystem, empower the country’s youth and accelerate the development of rural India.

National Drone Summit 2026 was organised as an initiative by Dr. Deep Sihag Sisai, Founder and Chairman of Drone Tech Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited, in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) at The Leela Palace, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Held under the theme “From Policy to Prosperity,” the summit brought together representatives from government, industry, cooperative institutions, the agriculture sector, startups and rural India.

The summit concluded with the launch of three landmark national initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s cooperative drone ecosystem: Drone Tech Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited, India’s first sector-focused multi-state cooperative for the drone industry; the National Mission 1 Panchayat 1 Drone Udyami, aimed at developing drone entrepreneurs across two lakh agriculture-based Panchayats over the next five years; and 75 Advanced Skill Centres, established to equip India’s youth with industry-ready skills in drone technology and other emerging technologies.

Author Arti Chavan officially launched her debut historical novel, Shadow of the Serpent Fort, at Title Waves, Bandra West, on Saturday, 4 July 2026 at 5:00 PM.

Acclaimed actor and classical dancer Shanthi Priya, serving as Chief Guest, officially unveiled the book Shadow of the Serpent Fort and her presence lent a distinguished touch to an evening celebrating storytelling, history, and India’s rich cultural heritage.
 

Acclaimed actor and classical dancer Shanthi Priya officially unveiled the book Shadow of the Serpent Fort by Arti Chavan, with Sandip Soparrkar, internationally renowned dancer, and choreographer
 

The event included the ceremonial unveiling of the book by Chief Guest Shanthi Priya, remarks by the distinguished guests, a reading from the novel, an interactive conversation with the author, and a book-signing session attended by readers, members of the literary community, and invited media.

Speaking at the launch, Shanthi Priya said, “Stories have the remarkable ability to transport us across time and connect us with our shared heritage. I am delighted to unveil Shadow of the Serpent Fort, which brings a fascinating chapter of Indian history to life through imagination and adventure. I congratulate Arti on this wonderful achievement and wish the book every success.”

Joining the celebrations as Guest of Honour was internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, actor, cultural ambassador, and Chairman of the India Fine Arts Council, Sandip Soparrkar. A holder of a PhD in World Mythology, Soparrkar reflected on the enduring relationship between literature, performance, and cultural preservation. Speaking on the occasion, Sandip Soparrkar added, “Whether expressed through dance, cinema, or literature, storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to preserve culture and inspire future generations. I am delighted to be part of the launch of a novel that celebrates India’s rich heritage while making history engaging and accessible for modern readers.”

The evening also featured noted history professor, Dr. Sonali Pednekar, who highlighted the contribution of historical fiction in fostering curiosity about India’s lesser-known historical periods.

At the heart of the event was Shadow of the Serpent Fort, the culmination of six years of research and writing by Arti Chavan, a former Meta and Microsoft strategy leader, who grew up in India and now lives in the United States. Set in 324 BCE, during the fascinating Indo-Greek period following Alexander’s departure from India, the novel combines political intrigue, adventure, loyalty, mystery, and supernatural suspense to bring a forgotten chapter of Indian history vividly to life.

Author Arti Chavan said, “This book has been a six-year labor of love. Inspired by my children’s fascination with Greek mythology, I wanted to tell an equally entertaining story rooted in India’s own extraordinary past. By setting the novel in the little-known Indo-Greek period after Alexander’s departure, I hope readers will not only enjoy the adventure but also be inspired to explore the remarkable history behind it.”

About the Book

Shadow of the Serpent Fort is the first novel in the Forgotten Kingdoms of India series. Set against the backdrop of a transforming Indian subcontinent in 324 BCE, it follows a young warrior caught in a struggle for power as rival kingdoms, Greek influences, and hidden loyalties collide. Combining history, adventure, and suspense, the novel shines a light on an era that has long remained in the shadows of history.

About the Author

Arti Chavan was born and raised in India. She began writing Shadow of the Serpent Fort during the pandemic; after watching her children fall in love with Greek mythology and realizing she wanted them to know the Indian stories she’d grown up with, told the way modern adventure novels are told. The book took six years to finish, written between work and family life.

Before turning to writing, she spent nearly two decades as a strategy leader at Microsoft and Meta. The work taught her something she carried into the novel: that the hardest decisions, in a boardroom or a king’s court, usually come down to what a person is willing to lose for what they believe in. She lives in California with her husband and two children. This is her debut novel.
 

For more updates:

Visit the website: ancientindiastories.com

Follow www.instagram.com/artiwritesstories/ for more updates from the author
 

Copies of the book can be ordered on Amazon by clicking on the link below

shorturl.at/37aTV
 

Media Contact

Vipul Bondal, Veriitte Consulting M: +91 9920384555; E: vb@veriitte.in

MSI, a global leader in gaming, content creation, and business & productivity laptops, today announced its participation in the Flipkart GOAT Sale, running from 2nd to 9th July 2026. During the sale window, shoppers on Flipkart can access special pricing on a curated line-up of MSI gaming and productivity laptops, ranging from high-performance gaming machines to slim everyday laptops built for work, study, and business. Alongside the online sale, MSI is also running a parallel set of offers across its offline retail network through July, offering extended warranty coverage and flexible EMI plans.

MSI Summer Sale 2026

Commenting on the campaign, Mr. James Sung, NB Sales Director, MSI India, said, “India represents one of the fastest-evolving PC markets globally, with a growing community of gamers, creators, students, and professionals driving demand for powerful, future-ready computing solutions. At MSI, we continue to invest in expanding our presence through product innovation and strong channel partnerships that bring us closer to consumers. The Flipkart GOAT Sale is an important part of that strategy, enabling us to make our latest gaming and productivity portfolio more accessible while delivering greater value to customers across the country.“

For more on the offers, please visit: msi.gm/S4236E35 

MSI’s Line-Up for the Sale

Gaming Laptops

• Crosshair 16 HX AI D2XWGKG — Dedicated for developers and content creators

• Katana 15 B13UDXK — A balanced pick for students and everyday gamers

• Cyborg 15 AI A1VEK — Built for young gamers who want style and AI-ready performance

• Katana A15 AI B8VE — An accessible AMD-powered gaming option for budget-conscious buyers

Productivity & Business Laptops

• Modern 15 B13M (Star Blue) — A dependable everyday laptop for students and office use

• Modern 14 C7M (Urban Silver) — A compact AMD-powered option for on-the-go professionals

• Commercial 14 H A13MG vPro — Engineered for enterprise and business environments

• Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VFG — A premium creative and professional workstation laptop

Gaming Laptops on the GOAT Sale

Crosshair 16 HX AI D2XWGKG
The Crosshair 16 HX AI D2XWGKG anchors the gaming line-up as MSI’s flagship pick for this sale, built for gamers and creators who want the most capable machine on offer for demanding titles and heavy creative workloads. It represents the top of the GOAT Sale selection for shoppers unwilling to compromise on performance.

Key Features:

• Intel Core™ Ultra 7 255HX processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPU, GDDR7 8GB

• 8GB×2 DDR5 / 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD

• 16″ QHD+ (2560×1600), 240Hz, 100% DCI-P3, IPS-Level display

• 24-Zone RGB Gaming Keyboard

• Comes with carry bag

Katana 15 B13UDXK
The Katana 15 B13UDXK is positioned as a dependable, accessible gaming laptop for students and gamers who want strong everyday gaming performance without stretching their budget. It continues MSI’s Katana series tradition of offering a practical entry point into gaming-grade hardware.

Key Features:

• Intel Core i5-13420H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU

• 16GB RAM / 1TB SSD

• 15.6-inch FHD display at 144Hz

Cyborg 15 AI A1VEK
The Cyborg 15 AI A1VEK brings MSI’s distinctive Cyborg design identity to the GOAT Sale, appealing to gamers who want a laptop that looks as bold as it performs. It’s aimed at students and young gamers who care about standing out as much as keeping up with their games.

Key Features:

• Intel Core Ultra 7 processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU

• 16GB RAM / 1TB SSD

• Signature MSI Cyborg design aesthetic

• AI-capable platform for AI-assisted applications

Katana A15 AI B8VE
The Katana A15 AI B8VE rounds out MSI’s gaming selection for the GOAT Sale, offering shoppers another accessible entry point into the Katana series alongside the Katana 15 B13UDXK. It gives gamers an additional configuration to choose from within the same trusted line.

Key Features:

• AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU

• 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD

• 15.6-inch FHD display at 144Hz

Productivity & Business Laptops on the GOAT Sale

Modern 15 B13M (Star Blue)
The Modern 15 B13M in Star Blue is positioned as an everyday productivity laptop for students and professionals who need a dependable machine for study, assignments, and office tasks. Its Star Blue finish gives it a distinct look within MSI’s Modern series.

Key Features:

• Intel Core i7-1355U processor with Intel Iris Xe Graphics

• 8GB RAM / 512GB SSD

• 15-inch FHD display

• Lightweight everyday productivity design

• Star Blue colourway

Modern 14 C7M (Urban Silver)
The Modern 14 C7M in Urban Silver offers a more compact alternative within MSI’s Modern series, suited to users who prioritise portability for daily carry between classes or meetings. It rounds out the Modern line-up alongside the 15-inch option in this sale.

Key Features:

• AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with AMD Radeon Graphics

• 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD

• 14-inch FHD display

• Compact and portable form factor

• Urban Silver colourway

Commercial 14 H A13MG vPro
The Commercial 14 H A13MG vPro is aimed squarely at business users and professionals who need a laptop built for office and enterprise environments. It brings MSI’s commercial-grade line into the GOAT Sale for buyers who prioritise reliability for work over gaming features.

Key Features:

• Intel Core™ i5-13500H processor with Intel vPro platform

• Intel Iris Xe Graphics

• 8GB×2 DDR5 / 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD

• 14″ 16:10 FHD+ (1920×1200), IPS-Level display

• Enterprise-ready build with 3-Year Onsite Warranty

Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VFG
The Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VFG represents the premium end of MSI’s productivity line-up in this sale, aimed at professionals and creators who want a high-end laptop from the Prestige series for demanding work and creative tasks.

Key Features:

• Intel Core™ Ultra 7 155H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 4060 Laptop GPU

• 32GB LPDDR5 / 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD

• 16″ QHD+ (2560×1600), 100% DCI-P3, IPS-Level display

• Premium Prestige build and design finish

• Comes with MSI Laptop Bag

Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VEG
The Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VEG offers another configuration within the Prestige 16 AI Studio line, giving shoppers a choice alongside the B1VFG variant under the same premium design. It extends MSI’s Prestige series presence in the GOAT Sale for buyers comparing options within the same family.

Key Features:

• Intel Core™ Ultra 7 155H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 4050 Laptop GPU

• 32GB LPDDR5 / 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD

• 16″ QHD+ (2560×1600), 100% DCI-P3, IPS-Level display

• Premium Prestige build and design finish

• Comes with MSI Laptop Bag

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the MSI Crosshair 16 HX AI good for AI workloads?
A: Yes. With an Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU with GDDR7 8GB, the Crosshair 16 HX AI is capable of handling AI-assisted coding, local inference workloads, image generation, and AI-enhanced creative applications.

Q: Is the MSI Katana 15 B13UDXK suitable for everyday use and gaming?
A: Yes. The Katana 15 B13UDXK balances gaming capability with everyday productivity, making it suitable for study, entertainment, and casual content creation.

Q: How does the Katana A15 AI B8VE-418IN differ from the Katana 15 B13UDXK-2401IN?
A: The Katana A15 AI B8VE-418IN is AMD-powered, running on an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with an RTX 4050 GDDR6 6GB GPU, while the Katana 15 B13UDXK-2401IN runs on an Intel Core i5-13420H with an RTX 3050 GDDR6 6GB GPU. Both offer accessible gaming performance; the choice comes down to platform preference and budget.

Amazon Offers
On Amazon, the GOAT Sale line-up spans five MSI laptops at discounted prices, from the premium Stealth 14 AI Studio at INR 1,79,990 down to the budget-friendly Cyborg 15 at INR 72,990, with the Sword 16 HX, Thin 15, and Katana A15 AI rounding out the mid-range options.

Flipkart Offers
On Flipkart, shoppers can choose from nine MSI models across gaming and productivity categories, led by the flagship Crosshair 16 HX AI at INR 1,89,990 and anchored at the value end by the Modern 14 at INR 48,990, with the Katana, Cyborg, Commercial, and two Prestige 16 AI Studio variants filling out the range in between.

Offline Channel Offers
(Program Period: 1st – 31st July 2026 | Channel: All Physical Authorized Resellers)
MSI is also running a separate set of offers across its offline retail network through the month of July, giving customers who prefer to shop in-store access to extended warranty coverage and flexible financing options.

1-Year Free Warranty Extension (worth INR 4,999)
Customers purchasing any MSI laptop from eligible offline channels will be eligible for a 1-year free warranty extension.

• Program Period: 1st to 31st July 2026

• Eligible Models: All MSI laptops purchased from eligible channels

• Eligible Channels: All physical authorized resellers (e-tailers are excluded)

EMI Offers

• Flexible EMI plans are available to make in-store purchases more accessible.

• Program Period: 1st to 31st July 2026

• Up to 24-month EMI offer with Pinelabs

• Up to 18-month EMI offer with Bajaj Finance

Across MSI’s offline retail network, a broader set of fourteen laptop configurations is on offer through July, spanning everything from the Modern 14 at INR 69,990 to the flagship Raider 18 HX at INR 3,99,990, with multiple Katana, Cyborg, Thin, Prestige, and Modern variants available at various price points in between, alongside the warranty and EMI benefits described above.

The President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, has inaugurated the Tamchy Special Financial Investment Territory (SFIT), a new international jurisdiction on the shores of alpine Lake Issyk-Kul. The first residents of Tamchy, who joined during the launch ceremony, were companies from South Korea, the UAE, Hong Kong, Switzerland and Kazakhstan. Twenty companies from across the globe are in the process of establishing residency at Tamchy SFIT.

Tamchy Special Financial Investment Territory on Issyk-Kul Launched in Kyrgyzstan

The ceremony culminated with President Japarov symbolically activating a geotag-shaped switch, thus putting Tamchy SFIT, quite literally, on the global financial map.
 

“Changes in the global economy are driving demand for new centers of business activity where international standards are supported by true freedom of innovation and long-term investment. Tamchy SFIT is our national project and our response to the needs of international businesses. We are building a financial center from scratch with an independent court, a modern regulator, and rules that won’t change with shifting trends.I have no doubt that Tamchy SFIT will open a new chapter in the history of Kyrgyzstan,” said President Japarov

SFIT “Tamchy”: Why the State is Changing the Rules for Business

YouTube link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XMkTreU11M

Operating on the principles of English common law, Tamchy SFIT has its own financial regulator, an International Dispute Resolution Centre, and a single-window digital registrar. A special tax regime guarantees a 0% rate of tax on profits, dividends, capital gains, and VAT for 49 years and allows 100% foreign ownership and unrestricted profit repatriation.

Covering an area of about 6,000 ha, Tamchy SFIT can already boast a fully operational business center, while hotels and residential buildings are under construction. Issyk-Kul International Airport is within walking distance.

“Great financial centres are built by understanding what international capital and businesses require. Tamchy SFIT offers exactly that — a trusted, flexible, and investor-ready platform for businesses seeking sustainable growth. Benchmarked to international gold standards, grounded in English common law, and positioned at the intersection of five EAEU economies and the Eurasian corridor, it offers a jurisdiction that is neutral, independent, and built to last,” said Ali Ijaz Ahmad, First Deputy Chairman of the Tamchy SFIT Management Council.

One of the first executives who decided to set up in Tamchy SFIT was Seo Dong Hyun, CEO of Serim.

“Over the past thirty years of investing in the semiconductor industry, high technology, and energy, I have come to appreciate that legal certainty and trust in the regulatory system are the foundation of long-term investment. These are the very principles on which the Tamchy SFIT was established. What is particularly remarkable is that a project of this scale was delivered in just one year—faster than in any other jurisdiction I know. Today, I registered my family holding company here. For me, this is not an investment for years, but for generations,” he said.

By 2035, Tamchy aims to attract around 4,000 resident companies and create over 10,000 jobs. The expected contribution of Tamchy to the country’s economy between 2026 and 2035 is estimated at USD 20 bn.

Strengthening its hospitality portfolio, the Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a leading FMCG conglomerate and multi-business corporation, has announced the launch of a new luxury hospitality project in partnership with Marriott International under the W Hotels brand. The project will feature a 200-room luxury hotel near Indira Gandhi International Airport and is scheduled to open in the second half of 2027, with an estimated investment of Rs. 400 crore. Strategically located near the Aerocity, one of Delhi NCR’s most active hospitality corridors, catering to both business and leisure demand.
 

DS Group To Launch Marriott International’s W Hotels Brand In NCR
 

Marking the debut of W Hotels in Delhi NCR, and the second W Hotels property in India (after Goa), this development will add a distinctive, lifestyle-led offering to a market traditionally dominated by legacy luxury formats. Rooted in an impactful trifecta which includes detail-driven design, anticipatory service culture, and dynamic programming, W Hotels has a presence in global cities such as London, New York, Dubai, and Singapore to name a few. Remaining true to the brand’s iconic foundations, the upcoming property will be developed as a design-forward, contemporary destination, in line with W Hotels’ global identity. Bringing together the magnetic energy of W Hotels and the essence of local culture, the hotel aims to cater to a new generation of luxury consumers seeking both sophistication and vibrancy around Delhi NCR.

Announcing the launch, Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, DS Group, said, “The Indian hospitality sector is currently witnessing an unprecedented growth trajectory, fuelled by a robust surge in domestic travel and a significant demand-supply mismatch in the premium segment. With approximately 0.27 hotel keys per 1,000 people compared to the global average of 2.2, India’s hotel penetration rate is roughly one-tenth of the global standard. As marquee global players are rapidly expanding their footprints across the Indian landscape, New Delhi remains the indispensable gateway to the high value diplomatic and corporate echelons that ultimately establish a brand’s equity and authority in the subcontinent. The launch of Marriott International’s W Hotels brand reinforces our continued commitment to the hospitality business and marks a significant milestone in DS Group’s growth strategy, aligned with our long-term vision of providing unparalleled experiences to our guests.”

Mr. Nathan Andrews, Business Head, Hospitality, DS Group, said, “This project is a significant step for the DS Group as we expand our hospitality footprint with a target of 10–12 hotels by FY29. By bringing the iconic W Hotels brand to Delhi NCR, we are setting a new benchmark for design-led luxury, project in one of India’s most competitive markets. The Aerocity area continues to demonstrate exceptional demand and RevPAR growth, making it the ideal location for a globally recognized brand that combines unmatched connectivity with long-term value for Delhi NCR. This partnership underscores our commitment to shaping the future of Indian hospitality by delivering curated, high-impact experiences for the modern global traveller.”

“As Marriott International continues to expand our hospitality options in India to meet the evolving needs of both guests and owners, the signing of our first W Hotels in Delhi NCR is set to introduce a bold new expression of luxury to this dynamic, high-energy market,” said Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “We are delighted to collaborate with the Dharampal Satyapal Group, whose legacy of excellence and forward-looking approach to premium, experience-led hospitality aligns seamlessly with Marriott International’s commitment to delivering differentiated, high-quality hospitality experiences, grounded in strong partnerships and a shared vision for long-term value creation.”

Rooted in the W Hotels philosophy of celebrating individuality, igniting curiosity, and expanding perspectives, the hotel is poised to disrupt traditional hospitality. Blending avant-garde, design-led environments with high-energy social hubs like the W Lounge, will transform the hotel from a mere place of stay into a vibrant, music-infused lifestyle destination. This ethos of innovation and immersive guest engagement aligns seamlessly with the DS Group’s legacy of excellence and its strategic focus on delivering premium, market-leading experiences.

By welcoming W Hotels into its portfolio, DS Group reinforces its commitment to forward‑thinking luxury defined by cultural energy and modern relevance. Known for its liberated approach to luxury and bold design sensibility, W Hotels brings a dynamic new dimension—creating experiences that celebrate self‑expression, connection, and living fully in the moment. This approach aligns with DS Group’s focus on delivering premium, experience-led hospitality and expanding its footprint in futuristic and high-growth urban markets.

DS Group is pursuing an aggressive expansion strategy in hospitality, with plans to double its current room inventory by 2029 and an investment commitment of Rs. 1,000 crore over the next few years. The growth will be driven primarily in the luxury and mid-scale segments, across high-growth Tier I and Tier II cities. DS Group’s existing portfolio includes six operational properties across key markets, including Namah Nainital, Namah Jim Corbett, Radisson Blu Guwahati, Intercontinental Jaipur, Renaissance Bengaluru and Holiday Inn Express, Kolkata.

About DS Group

The DS Group (Dharampal Satyapal Group) is a one of the leading FMCG conglomerates and a Multi-Business Corporation with a strong Indian and International presence. Founded in the year 1929, it is an inspiring and successful business story that blends a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. It has an extensive and diverse portfolio with presence in Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Freshener, Hospitality, Agri, Luxury Retail businesses, and other investments. Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Silver Pearls, Ksheer, Rajnigandha, Ovino, L’Opera, Le Marche, Birthright, LuvIt, Chingles, Golmol, Namah are some of the leading brands, the Group proudly shelters today.

As a corporate, DS Group is guided by a clear set of values that are built on a strong foundation of collective good to give back to society and protect the planet. The DS Headquarters has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, under the USGBC (US Green Building Council) existing building O&M (Operation and Maintenance) program version 4.0. The DS Headquarters has also received LEED Zero Carbon Certification, by the USGBC. DS Group has aligned its financial performance with global ESG priorities with the launch of a pioneering Double Materiality Assessment across all businesses. Further demonstrating its environmental leadership, the DS Group has a water positivity index at 1.8 across its business units in 30 locations of India.

At a time when technology, artificial intelligence and rapidly changing workplaces are redefining careers, veteran business leader Ajai Puri today launched his debut book, The Forever Student, published by Qurate Books. Released simultaneously pan-India and globally, the book presents a timeless collection of letters written to his 21-year-old self, distilling over four decades of corporate leadership into practical lessons on building a successful career while remaining grounded in integrity, humility, gratitude, empathy and purpose.
 

Image of the book “The Forever Student” by Ajai Puri
 

In an era where technical skills have a shorter shelf life than ever before, The Forever Student argues that curiosity, courage to take big bold decisions, adaptability and continuous learning are the true competitive advantages. Through a series of deeply personal yet universally relatable letters, Mr Puri shares insights on leadership, resilience, decision-making, relationships, communication, values and self-awareness. Rather than offering formulaic career advice, the book encourages readers to embrace uncertainty, learn from failure and remain students throughout their professional journeys. The book features an astute foreword by Sh. Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder & Chairman, Bharti Enterprises.

“Technology will continue to transform the way we work, but qualities such as character, integrity, empathy and the willingness to keep learning will always define exceptional leaders,” said Ajai Puri, author of The Forever Student. “These letters are the conversations I wish I had with my 21-year-old self. If they encourage even a few readers to stay curious, lead with humility and pursue success without compromising their values, this book will have served its purpose.”

Published by Qurate Books, The Forever Student is part memoir, part mentor and part leadership handbook. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience leading teams, starting and building businesses and mentoring professionals, Puri offers readers practical wisdom that transcends industries and generations. Written for young professionals, aspiring leaders and seasoned executives alike, the book reinforces a simple but profound idea: the most successful people are those who never stop learning.

“With organisations increasingly seeking leaders who combine business acumen with emotional intelligence, spiritual grounding and adaptability, The Forever Student arrives at a defining moment for the global workforce. More than a career guide, it is an invitation to cultivate a lifelong mindset of growth, reminding readers that while industries may evolve and technologies may change, the pursuit of learning and being human remain the surest path to lasting success,” according to Pramod Khera, CEO of Qurate Books.

About the Author

Powered by leadership roles at VST (BAT, UK associate Co.), Cargill India, and as COO of Bharti Airtel, India & SE Asia, Ajai Puri believes a leader’s greatest asset is a curious mind. As the longest-serving Airtel Management Board member, he helped transform the company into a digital-first powerhouse helping build India’s India’s digital growth story.

Ajai’s “never stop learning” philosophy took him through Harvard, Wharton, and INSEAD. He now advises entrepreneurs, supports corporate boards, and pursues philanthropy through SVP. Based in Gurgaon, he remains a dedicated student of life, believing the most impactful leaders keep listening, learning, and serving others.
 

Copies of the book can be ordered on Amazon by clicking on the link below tinywebs.site/UiCHwE. Every rupee earned by the author from the sale of this book will go towards social welfare.

Follow Ajai Puri on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ajai-puri-7925b56
 

Media Contact for interviews, review copies and other event information:

Vipul Bondal, Veriitte Consulting | M: +91 9920384555; E: vb@veriitte.in.

• India’s premier infrastructure innovation challenge concludes after engaging over 20,000 students from 500+ institutions nationwide

• Regional winners from IIT Delhi, Maturi Venkata Subba Rao Engineering College and Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering compete for the national title and a INR 30 lakh prize pool

• Industry-Academia Conclave brought together policymakers, industry leaders and academicians to discuss the future of India’s built environment and Viksit Bharat 2047
   

National Institute of Construction Management and Research (NICMAR), India’s premier institution for Built Environment, Infrastructure, Real Estate, and Project Management (CRIP) education, hosted the Grand Finale of the inaugural Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge 2025-26 in JW Marriot Mumbai. The event, India’s premier innovation challenge for Civil Engineering, Architecture and Core Engineering students, was graced by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. The occasion brought together young innovators, industry leaders, academicians, and policymakers to celebrate student-led innovation for the future of India’s infrastructure.
 

Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, felicitating winners of the Inaugural Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge 2025-26 Grand Finale organised by NICMAR
 

Launched in December 2025, the Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge is NICMAR’s flagship nationwide innovation platform designed to encourage students to develop practical solutions for the country’s evolving infrastructure and built environment needs. Supported by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the inaugural edition engaged over 20,000 students from more than 500 institutions across the country. Following college-level rounds, city competitions across 11 cities and three regional finales, the top three teams advanced to the National Grand Finale.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, said, “For futuristic development, futuristic research is paramount and our young talented engineers are very capable of this; and NICMAR has done good work in this area & through Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge. Students and institutions should constantly focus on need based research that’s required to reduce cost of construction without compromising on quality of construction. Using technology, cost effective solutions can be made that can help reduce imports in the sector. Today, there’s immense scope for pre-cast and tunnelling in India. In line with the ongoing infrastructure developments and requirements, NICMAR should design pre-cast compound wall – one that’s the need of the hour. I would like to congratulate all the students for their research and invaluable contribution.”

The Grand Finale witnessed participation from regional winning teams representing IIT Delhi, Maturi Venkata Subba Rao Engineering College and Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering. Following a rigorous evaluation by an eminent jury comprising industry leaders and academicians, Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering bagged the winners title of the inaugural edition of Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge. The winning team received a Global Infrastructure Excellence Tour along with the overall prize pool worth INR 30 lakh.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Ajit Gulabchand, Chairman of the Board of Trustee’s and Board of Governors of National Institute of Construction Management and Research (NICMAR), said, “As India enters one of the most crucial infrastructure development phases, our greatest asset will not only be capital or technology, but also the quality of our talent. NICMAR’s, Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge is an initiative to transform students from learners into problem solvers by exposing them to real-world infrastructure challenges and encouraging interdisciplinary innovation. At NICMAR, we strongly believe that the nation can only be as strong as the people who build it.”

Alongside the competition, NICMAR hosted the Industry-Academia Conclave, bringing together leading industry professionals, academicians, and policymakers to deliberate on the future of India’s infrastructure ecosystem. The conclave featured insightful discussions on strengthening the collaboration between academia and industry, accelerating technology adoption, and promoting sustainable and resilient infrastructure. It also reiterated the importance of building a future-ready talent pipeline to support India’s infrastructure ambitions and the evolving needs of the Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure and Project Management (CRIP) sector.

“The Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge also exemplifies NICMAR’s commitment to strengthening the connection between academia and industry. By creating opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges and interact with industry leaders, we are nurturing future professionals who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to India’s infrastructure and urban development journey,” added Mr. Gulabchand.

With the successful completion of its inaugural edition, the Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge has established itself as a national platform nurturing innovation, strengthening industry-academia collaboration and empowering the next generation of infrastructure leaders to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

About NICMAR
Established in 1983, NICMAR is an autonomous, non-governmental, not-for-profit and India’s only premier CRIP (Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure, Project) dedicated education institute. Backed by some of the largest and leading construction companies, NICMAR is recognised for academic excellence, industry relevance, and strong placement outcomes, with four campuses in Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR and Mumbai. The Institute is recognised globally for its contributions to the built environment.
 

For more information, please visit www.nicmar.ac.in.

Marwari Catalysts Group is working towards establishing Elara Healthcare as a scalable, affordable and future-ready mother and child care platform, with IVF and infertility services forming an important part of its wider healthcare offering. The initiative is being developed under the Group’s Venture Studio Model and is designed to bring accessible, ethical and standardized healthcare services closer to women, mothers, children and families beyond major metropolitan cities.

Marwari Catalysts Group to Build Elara Healthcare as a Future-Ready Mother and Child Care Network

Moving from an IVF-industry-focused approach to a broader mother and child care vision, Elara Healthcare aims to build an integrated healthcare ecosystem covering women’s wellness, fertility and infertility care, pregnancy support, mother and child health, nutrition guidance, preventive care, wellness programs and patient education. IVF and infertility services will continue to remain a key vertical within the platform, while the overall focus will expand towards complete care for women, mothers and children.

As part of its future expansion roadmap, Marwari Catalysts Group plans to develop Elara Healthcare across Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Himachal, followed by proposed international opportunities in Africa and Gulf. These expansion plans are future-oriented and will be executed in phases through collaborations with hospitals, healthcare professionals, wellness partners, doctors and strategic institutions.

The vision behind Elara Healthcare is to create a trusted mother and child care network that combines clinical excellence with affordability, compassion, preventive healthcare, technology-enabled systems and standardized delivery. The platform will focus on serving Tier-II and Tier-III cities, where access to organized mother and child healthcare, fertility care and women’s wellness services remains limited or fragmented.

To strengthen its mother and child healthcare ecosystem, Elara Healthcare has signed MoUs with Nuskha Kitchen and Hobfit for the betterment of women’s health, mother and child wellness, yoga, exercise, nutrition and proper diet support. These collaborations are aimed at building a holistic care model where medical services are supported by lifestyle, diet, fitness and wellness interventions.

Speaking about the vision, Sushil Sharma, Founder & CEO of Marwari Catalysts Group, Executive Director, BRICS CCI, Convenor, ESC Rajasthan Chapter and also Co-Chair Startup Vertical, Rotary District 3053 (2026–27) said, “Marwari Catalysts has always believed that impactful and globally scalable businesses can emerge from Tier-II and Tier-III India. Through Elara Healthcare, we are building a future-ready mother and child care platform that will include fertility, IVF and infertility care as part of a much larger healthcare vision. Our focus is to create an affordable, trusted and standardized healthcare brand for women, mothers, children and families. Rajasthan will be a key starting market, and we plan to expand across Haryana, Punjab, Himachal and, in the future, explore Africa and Gulf and BRICS Countries as international opportunities.”

He further added that the Venture Studio Model enables Marwari Catalysts Group to support founders with strategic leadership, operational expertise, branding, fundraising and access to national and international networks, helping healthcare ventures scale faster while maintaining quality, governance and patient trust.

Dr. Renu Sharma, Founder & Director of Elara Healthcare, said the objective is to build a holistic healthcare platform for women and families, “During my years of working in fertility and women’s healthcare, I realised that families in smaller cities need much more than only IVF treatment. They need guidance, ethical medical care, emotional support, nutrition, wellness, preventive care and reliable mother and child healthcare services closer to home. Elara Healthcare is being designed with this broader vision. IVF and infertility services will remain an important part of our work, but our larger focus will be on complete women, mother and child care.”

She added that the organisation will continue to invest in experienced medical professionals, fertility specialists, embryologists, mother and child healthcare experts, wellness partners, technology systems and continuous training to maintain consistent standards across every future centre and collaboration.

Gajendra Singh, Director of Elara Healthcare, said the expansion strategy will focus on building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem rather than only increasing the number of centres, “Healthcare expansion requires strong systems, quality assurance and operational excellence. Elara Healthcare will be built on standardized processes, technology-enabled monitoring, patient-centric services and transparent governance. Our aim is to create a trusted network that supports women, mothers, children and families through every stage of care.”

Supporting Elara Healthcare’s future growth is an experienced ecosystem of healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, strategic investors and global business leaders. Among them is Vijendra Singh, a globally experienced technology executive, strategic investor and mentor whose expertise in digital transformation, business scaling and organizational leadership will contribute to the platform’s long-term growth.

The initiative further strengthens Marwari Catalysts Group’s healthcare portfolio, which already includes ventures such as Sarathi Healthcare, Nuskha Kitchen and One Dose. Through Elara Healthcare, the Group aims to build a wider healthcare platform that solves real-world challenges for women and families while creating sustainable economic and social impact.

Looking ahead, Marwari Catalysts Group plans to collaborate with leading doctors, mother and child hospitals, fertility specialists, wellness partners, healthcare institutions and strategic partners to accelerate Elara Healthcare’s future expansion. The proposed international roadmap covering South Africa and Dubai also reflects the Group’s ambition to build an Indian healthcare brand with global relevance.

With Rajasthan marking an important beginning and future expansion planned across Haryana, Punjab, Himachal, South Africa and Dubai, Elara Healthcare is envisioned as a trusted mother and child care network that brings together medical care, wellness, nutrition, fertility services and compassionate patient support under one platform.

About Marwari Catalysts Group

Marwari Catalysts Group is one of India’s leading startup ecosystem builders, with a portfolio of more than 100 startups across healthcare, technology, consumer, manufacturing and sustainability sectors. Through its Venture Studio Model, the Group partners with visionary founders by providing strategic guidance, operational expertise, branding, fundraising support and access to national and global markets. The Group remains committed to building scalable ventures from Tier-II and Tier-III India that create lasting economic and social impact Local to Global.