Samsung launched the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Plus in India on 7 October 2026, both powered by the 3nm MediaTek Dimensity 9500, running Android 17 with One UI 9, and shipping with an S Pen. The defining difference between them is screen size — and everything that follows from it.

Which Samsung tablet is worth buying? Explore the key differences between the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and S12 Plus before making your choice

Both tablets are available on Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance. The Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan covers up to Rs. 5 lakh, and the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card covers up to Rs. 6 lakh — both with tenures from 3 to 60 months. Zero down payment is available on select models.

What sets the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and S12 Plus apart?

Display size

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra has a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display at 2960 x 1848 pixels. The Galaxy Tab S12 Plus uses a 12.6-inch panel at 2800 x 1752 pixels. Both panels run at 120Hz and reach a peak brightness of 1,600 nits. For document work, photo editing, sketching with the S Pen, or extended streaming sessions, the two-inch difference in screen size translates to a noticeably larger working area on the Ultra.

Battery and endurance

The Ultra carries an 11,600 mAh battery against the 10,600 mAh cell in the S12 Plus. Samsung rates the Ultra at up to 23 hours of video playback and the S12 Plus at up to 21 hours. Both support 45 W fast charging. The extra capacity on the Ultra is particularly useful when the larger display is running at full brightness for long stretches — during travel, all-day work sessions, or back-to-back video calls.

Rear cameras

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra has a dual rear camera setup: a 13MP main lens and an 8MP ultrawide. The S12 Plus carries a single 13MP rear camera. The ultrawide on the Ultra makes it easier to scan wide documents, capture full rooms, or frame group shots in a single take. Both tablets share a 12MP ultrawide front camera for video calls.

Wireless connectivity

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra supports Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be); the Galaxy Tab S12 Plus uses Wi-Fi 6E. On a compatible Wi-Fi 7 network, the Ultra can achieve higher throughput and lower latency — a practical advantage for large cloud uploads, remote desktop work, and high-quality video conferencing. Both models are also available in 5G variants.

Weight and portability

The Ultra (Wi-Fi) weighs 692g; the S12 Plus weighs 553g. At 139g lighter, the S12 Plus is the easier choice for those who carry a tablet daily — to the office, college, client meetings, or on long commutes.

Where the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and S12 Plus match

Despite the size difference, these two tablets share a substantial amount of hardware and software:

• Same processor: Both run on the 3nm MediaTek Dimensity 9500 with 12GB RAM, delivering identical performance for multitasking, app-heavy workflows, and photo or video editing.

• Same Galaxy AI features: Both get the full Galaxy AI suite in One UI 9, including Note Assist, writing tools, and productivity features across supported apps.

• Same S Pen experience: Both include an S Pen in the box with low-latency input, and both support Adobe Photoshop via the S Pen.

• Same software longevity: Samsung promises seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security patches for both models.

• Same build and durability: Both carry an IP68 dust and water resistance rating and use Samsung’s Enhanced Armor Aluminum frame.

• Same thickness profile: The Ultra measures 5.1mm; the S12 Plus measures 5.3mm — both are among the slimmest tablets in their class.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and S12 Plus price in India

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra prices start at Rs. 1,49,999 for the 12GB + 256GB Wi-Fi variant, with the following full pricing:

• 12GB + 256GB, Wi-Fi: Rs. 1,49,999

• 12GB + 512GB, Wi-Fi: Rs. 1,69,999

• 12GB + 256GB, 5G: Rs. 1,64,999

• 12GB + 512GB, 5G: Rs. 1,84,999

Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Plus prices start at Rs. 1,29,999 for the 12GB + 256GB Wi-Fi variant:

• 12GB + 256GB, Wi-Fi: Rs. 1,29,999

• 12GB + 512GB, Wi-Fi: Rs. 1,49,999

• 12GB + 256GB, 5G: Rs. 1,44,999

• 12GB + 512GB, 5G: Rs. 1,64,999

Updated: Oct, 2026

Disclaimer: Prices may change based on availability, offers, and location. Please check the latest price before buying.

Which Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 is the better buy?

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra suits buyers who prioritise a larger display, extended battery life, dual rear cameras, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity — particularly for content creation, multitasking across multiple windows, or all-day productivity away from a desk.

The Galaxy Tab S12 Plus offers the same processor, Galaxy AI experience, and S Pen capability in a body that is 139g lighter and Rs. 20,000 less expensive at the base variant. For those who prioritise portability and value over maximum screen real estate, it delivers the same core experience in a more manageable form factor.

How to buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 series on Easy EMIs

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S12 Plus are available at Bajaj Finance partner stores on Easy EMIs, spreading the cost across monthly instalments rather than paying the full amount upfront:

1. Visit the nearest Bajaj Finance partner store.

2. Select the preferred Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra or Galaxy Tab S12 Plus variant.

3. Enquire about available Easy EMI options and current offers.

4. Choose an instalment tenure between 3 and 60 months.

5. Complete the purchase and take home the new tablet the same day.

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) has achieved a significant milestone in research excellence, with 19 of its researchers featuring in the prestigious Stanford–Elsevier Top 2% Scientists List, which recognises researchers worldwide for the scholarly impact of their published work. The recognition marks a notable achievement for the university, with the number of its researchers featured in the list doubling compared to the previous year.
 

19 Researchers from Mnaipal University Jaipur felicitated by the university leadership

Compiled through a collaboration involving Stanford University and Elsevier, the list identifies scientists whose research has made a significant impact in their respective fields. The growing representation of MUJ faculty members reflects the university’s sustained efforts to strengthen its research ecosystem, promote innovation and encourage high-quality research across diverse disciplines.
 

The 19 researchers from Manipal University Jaipur featured in the list are Dr. Chaitanya Baliram Pande, Dr. Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dr. Ajay Kumar, Dr. Pushpendra Kumar Singh Rathore, Dr. Deepak Kumar, Dr. Asaithambi Perumal, Dr. Ravi Kumar Sharma, Dr. Bishwajit Dey, Dr. Somya Rakesh Goyal, Dr. Abdul Haseeb Ganie, Dr. Vijaypal Singh Dhaka, Dr. Veer Singh, Dr. Ashish Goyal, Dr. Pramod Singh Rathore, Dr. Pulakraj Aryan, Dr. Jayasmita Jana, Dr. Saurabh Dewangan, Dr. Pravin Kumar Singh and Dr. Himmat Singh Kushwah.
 

On the occasion, Dr. N. N. Sharma, President of Manipal University Jaipur, interacted with the recognised researchers and congratulated them on their achievement. He appreciated their contributions to advancing knowledge and enhancing the university’s research profile and global academic standing.
 

The recognition underscores the contribution of MUJ’s faculty members to scientific inquiry, knowledge creation and research with wider academic and societal relevance. The university continues to focus on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting innovative research and creating an environment that enables faculty members and scholars to pursue impactful research.
 

In the year 2025, there were total 10 researchers from Manipal University Jaipur featured in the top 2% scientists list and in the year 2024, the number was 5 only. The year-on-year increase in the number of recognised researchers reflects the university’s continued emphasis on research-driven academic development. With a growing focus on innovation, scholarly collaboration and global engagement, Manipal University Jaipur is working towards further strengthening its position in the national and international research landscape.
 

About Manipal University Jaipur

Established in 2011, Manipal University Jaipur is a NAAC A+ accredited institution and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). This year Manipal University Jaipur received QS 5 Star overall rating. Located on a 122-acre campus in Rajasthan, the university offers programmes across diverse disciplines, including engineering, computer science, management, law, architecture, humanities and sciences. With an emphasis on academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, MUJ provides an environment that encourages students and faculty members to engage with emerging technologies and address contemporary societal challenges. The university continues to strengthen its national and international academic partnerships and research ecosystem in alignment with its vision of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation and preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
 

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit jaipur.manipal.edu.

Moscow, Russia
Technology exports, high tech, and advanced solutions will be the key theme of the “Made in Russia” international export forum. The high-tech track will shape the business program, from promoting Russian innovations in foreign markets to international cooperation in innovation. The forum is organized by Russian Export Center (REC, VEB.RF Group). It will take place on November 16 at the National Centre RUSSIA in Moscow. Registration is open.
 

High Tech to Be the Main Theme of the “Made in Russia” Forum
 

For Indian partners, the Made in Russia programme has become a practical tool for entering the market. On 21 August 2026, Russian Export Centre (REC) opened the first permanent Made in Russia national pavilion in India, in Navi Mumbai. It is the programme’s eighth pavilion abroad. Its participants include MAKFA, United Confectioners and Miratorg. By the end of the year, REC plans to launch a pilot project placing Made in Russia shelves in Indian retail outlets. In September, REC organised a business mission for 23 Russian companies at INNOPROM India in New Delhi. Earlier, in May, a business programme in Mumbai produced agreements with an export potential of more than $15 million. Trade between the two countries is also growing: according to India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, bilateral trade in January–July 2026 rose by 24.3% to $47.7 billion.
 

The 2026 forum program will focus on the priority areas of foreign economic activity. Technology exports and the promotion of high tech will take center stage: participants will discuss how Russian companies can scale up supplies of knowledge-intensive products, integrate into global value chains, and find partners for joint innovation projects. The program will also address the impact of geopolitical shifts on international trade, the evolution of global supply chains, and mechanisms for developing the export potential of small and medium-sized businesses. Financing for foreign economic activity and the adoption of modern digital solutions will also be in focus.
 

Direct business meetings between Russian exporters and foreign partners will once again be an important part of the forum. The 2026 forum will bring together representatives of federal and regional authorities, the business community, banks, export support centers, industry associations, and trade groups, as well as foreign delegations, financial institutions, trade and logistics companies, and leading industry exporters. The forum will serve as a platform for active dialogue and exchange of experience among all stakeholders, reaffirming its reputation as the year’s top event for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses, start exporting, and find reliable partners.
 

During the forum, REC will host a Made in Russia exhibition at the National Centre RUSSIA, showcasing the best technology solutions from Russian regions. An interactive zone with cutting-edge products from Russian exporters will be a key component, highlighting the achievements of Russian technology companies. The exhibition will present solutions in key areas of human life and the national economy: medicine, robotics, industry, and IT. In this way, the forum’s high-tech agenda will be brought to life not only in discussions but also in specific products and projects ready to enter international markets.
 

Last year, the forum drew participants from more than 100 countries. At 18 multi-format events, 140 leading speakers took the floor, including Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The total number of B2B meetings exceeded 500. Online broadcasts of the forum generated more than 6.3 million impressions.
 

About REC
Russian Export Center (REC, VEB.RF Group) is a state institution that supports non-resource, non-energy exports. It provides companies across various industries with both financial and non-financial assistance at every stage of entering international markets, including under the national project “International Cooperation and Exports.” Most of the services offered by the REC Group are available online on the My Export digital platform (Gosuslugi VED). REC Group includes the Russian Agency for Export Credit and Investment Insurance (EXIAR), Roseximbank, and the REC Export School.

The upcoming Diwali season presents a great opportunity for many Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Traders, wholesale dealers and manufacturers will have to build up their stock, arrange for raw material procurement, and set aside extra funds for meeting the increased expenses before new sales start coming in. It makes sense for any business to plan ahead and prepare cash flow in advance so that it does not have to adjust its regular operations to accommodate festive season sales.

MSMEs Prepare for Diwali Demand Surge 2026

The Economic Survey 2025-26, released by the Government of India’s Ministry of Finance, underlines the contribution that the sector makes to the economy: 31.1% of India’s GDP, 35.4% of manufacturing output and 48.58% of exports. Against this backdrop, it is important to take note of the financial preparedness of MSMEs, who need to manage seasonal demands while continuing with their operations.

Preparing for the Festive Demand Surge
Preparing for the festive season means that MSMEs have to consider the purchase of materials and costs against the amount of sales that they expect to make. Reviewing previous sales patterns, working with suppliers, and projecting expenses can help businesses deal with the purchases. Managing the gap between upfront expenditure and payments received from customers is equally important to maintaining healthy cash flows during this period.
 

Access to finance can be one of the factors businesses consider when preparing for this gap. However, financing requirements need to be assessed against expected cash flows, repayment capacity, and the cost of borrowing to ensure that seasonal expansion remains financially sustainable.

Role of Business Financing in Seasonal Preparedness
Access to timely finance can help eligible Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to meet their seasonal expenses and also to gear up for any festive spurt in demand. Lendingkart provides corporate business loans of up to Rs. 50 lakh to eligible businesses. Such financing may be considered by enterprises evaluating their working capital requirements ahead of the festive season.

Commenting on the importance of financial preparedness, Aman Khanna, Digital Marketing Director, Lendingkart, said, “The festive season presents significant growth opportunities for India’s MSMEs, but capitalising on demand requires careful financial planning. Anticipating working capital needs and accessing credit responsibly can help businesses manage seasonal fluctuations and build long-term resilience.”

As the festive season approaches, a combination of demand forecasting, disciplined inventory management, and prudent financial planning can help MSMEs meet seasonal requirements while keeping longer-term business priorities in view.

About Lendingkart
Lendingkart is a fintech company focused on facilitating access to business finance for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across India. Through its technology-driven approach, the company offers business loans of up to Rs. 50 lakh to eligible businesses, subject to assessment and verification.

Lendingkart helps eligible enterprises meet their working capital requirements and also provides finance to meet their operational expenses and foster business growth. Through its digital lending model, Lendingkart has simplified the loan application journey for business owners across India.

For more information, visit www.lendingkart.com

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the country, has launched the second edition of ‘Pitch Point,’ a competition for AI startups ahead of RAISE’ 26, India’s premier Artificial Intelligence (AI)-themed event in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) sector. LTF is offering an opportunity to AI startups that are in their early to growth stage to present their solutions, applicable for BFSI or Non-BFSI domains, to a panel of Venture Capitalists, LTF’s senior management, and global industry experts at RAISE’ 26.

Past winners encourage incoming applicants to view Pitch Point as a partnership opportunity rather than just a contest

Dr. Debarag Banerjee, Chief Data & AI Officer at L&T Finance Ltd., said, “As L&T Finance advances its vision to become a Risk-first, Technology-first, AI-native Retail financial services institution, Pitch Point 2026 serves as a strategic launchpad for high-potential early-stage AI startups. More than a contest, Pitch Point offers gateway to a collaborative design partnership that bridges cutting-edge startup innovation with real enterprise scale. Artificial intelligence is rapidly redefining financial services into predictive intelligence. We encourage all forward-thinking AI entrepreneurs to apply, validate their solutions against real-world enterprise demands, and join us in shaping the future of intelligent finance.”

Past winners share experience, enterprise impact, and growth

The first cohort of Pitch Point saw intense competition, culminating in Arrowhead AI and SpoofSense emerging as winners from high-caliber AI startups that participated. For them, Pitch Point served as a catalyst for enterprise readiness, commercial deployment, and rapid scale of business.

Ms. Devyani Gupta, CEO of Arrowhead AI, an enterprise voice AI Start-up, said, “Pitch Point came to us at exactly the right moment. Being chosen as one of five finalists and then as one of the two winners gave us direct access to senior decision-makers and the credibility to turn that access into real deployment. Pitch Point shortens the long, uncertain path to winning the trust of a large organisation.”

Mr. Kartikeya Bhardwaj, Founder of SpoofSense, a provider of AI-driven digital identity verification and fraud prevention, said, “The main benefit for SpoofSense was enterprise validation, it gave us direct feedback from decision-makers who evaluate AI solutions on scalability, security, and operational readiness. Winning provided strong third-party validation, reassuring prospective clients that our technology performs in real-world enterprise environments.”

Following this success, SpoofSense is leveraging its Pitch Point recognition to advance discussions across the financial services sector and establish its platform as a core security layer for digital identity verification.

Beyond recognition, mentorship from L&T Finance leadership offered startups crucial design partnerships. Arrowhead AI now serves as LTF’s voice AI partner across different verticals. Meanwhile, SpoofSense utilised LTF’s feedback to refine its Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for enterprise deepfake and liveness detection.

Reflecting on the Pitch Point’s vision, Ms. Sushma Kaushik, Head of Innovation Fund at Larsen & Toubro, said, “AI is reshaping financial services from reactive decision-making to predictive intelligence. This will be the key differentiator in the BFSI industry. I commend L&T Finance for taking the lead and creating a platform like this that brings diverse voices from across the ecosystem to discuss how AI can be applied responsibly and at scale.”

Advice for the next cohort

Both founders encourage incoming applicants to view Pitch Point as a partnership opportunity rather than just a contest.

“Don’t view it as just a pitching contest. Treat it as an opportunity to test your solution against real enterprise demands,” advised Bhardwaj. Gupta added, “Come with a working product and a clear, specific problem you can solve. Winning opens the door, but how quickly and reliably you deliver afterwards decides how far the relationship goes.”

About Pitch Point 2026

The product offering that will be evaluated at ‘Pitch Point’ must align with one of the domains that synergises with any of the L&T Group Company’s current and future offerings, namely, Cyber Security & Fraud Prevention, Rural & Agri Fintech, Gen AI Application, Embedded Finance Solutions, Alternate Data Based Lending Solutions, AI-Driven Credit Scoring & Risk Assessment, Regulatory Technology & Compliance Tools, AI-Powered Collections & Recovery Solutions, AI-based BFSI ready Enterprise Agentic AI, Image Processing and Recognition, and AI Geospatial and Remote Sensing, Portfolio Optimisation Solutions, and Quantum Computing for BFSI.

LTF encourages eligible startups to apply online by submitting the registration form along with their pitch deck. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a virtual interaction round, and five finalists will then be selected to present live at RAISE’ 26.

The application period for this programme is open till October 31, 2026. The final shortlist is set to be announced on December 1, 2026. The programme culminates in a final event at RAISE’ 26 on December 16, 2026, which will be held at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Link to the ‘Pitch Point’ page: www.ltfraise.com/event/Raise/pitch-point

For any questions pertaining to the application process, eligible companies can contact the organising team at: raise.pitchpoint@ltfs.com

About L&T Finance RAISE

LTF’s RAISE’ 26 is an AI-focused event centered on the theme, ‘Transforming Financial Services with AI’ and offers a unique opportunity to explore the latest Enterprise Agentic AI solutions reshaping the BFSI landscape. RAISE was launched in the year 2024, with resounding success, convening over 4,500 participants including regulatory leaders, unicorn founders, deep tech innovators, and media representatives. It has since emerged as the largest AI-themed gathering in the BFSI domain, underscoring the sector’s growing reliance on AI and ML.

Find more information at: www.ltfraise.com

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) ( www.LTFINANCE.com ), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. LTF is also rated by International Rating Agencies. S&P Global Ratings has affirmed LTF with long-term Issuer Credit Rating at “BBB/Stable” and short-term issuer credit rating at “A-2”. Fitch Ratings has affirmed LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women’s empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on transforming into a Risk-first, Technology-first, AI-native Retail financial services institution as part of the Lakshya 2031 plan. The Company has over 3 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

X: x.com/LnTFinance

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

Keralam Minister for Home, Vigilance and Coir Ramesh Chennithala has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to strengthen interstate operational coordination against narcotics trafficking and convene a special conference of the Home Ministers of all States and Union Territories.

Keralam Minister for Home, Vigilance and Coir Ramesh Chennithala

In a letter submitted to the Union Home Minister, Chennithala has proposed a time-bound interstate operational protocol under the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD), faster real-time intelligence sharing, coordinated investigation of the financial networks behind drug trafficking, and a structured review of legal and procedural challenges under the NDPS framework.

The proposals draw on Keralam’s experience under Operation Toofan, the statewide anti-narcotics mission launched on 2 June 2026.

In 140 days, Keralam Police have registered 13,357 cases and arrested 14,409 persons under the operation. More than 27 kg of drugs and 1,796 kg of illicit substance have been seized.

Chennithala has pointed out that investigations originating from seizures within Keralam have repeatedly led police teams across State boundaries and, in some cases, to networks with links beyond India.

A seizure of 97 grams of drugs at Manjeri led Malappuram Police to a storage point in Coimbatore, where about 13 kg of illicit substance intended for Keralam was recovered. The investigation subsequently took police teams through Delhi, Noida, Kolkata, Bihar and Chennai in pursuit of the wider network.

In another case, a seizure of 609 grams of illicit substance at Angamaly led Ernakulam Rural Police to a key supplier in Nagaon, Assam. Further investigation resulted in arrests in Delhi and Bengaluru linked to networks supplying narcotics to Keralam.

“These operations succeeded because of the cooperation and goodwill of our counterparts in other States. But much of this coordination still depends on case-by-case arrangements,” Chennithala said in the letter.

“When an investigation crosses a state boundary, the pursuing team should be able to secure necessary coordination and local assistance within hours rather than days,” he said.

Four Proposals for Stronger National Coordination

1. A Time-Bound Interstate Operational Protocol Under NCORD

Chennithala has proposed a standard protocol for urgent interstate narcotics investigations and joint operations, including round-the-clock nodal officers in every State and Union Territory.

The proposed mechanism would cover immediate assistance to investigating teams, coordination of arrests and transit remand, preservation and transfer of evidence, and other time-sensitive operational requirements.

2. Strengthened Real-Time Operational Intelligence Sharing

The Minister has called for faster intelligence sharing among State Anti-Narcotics Task Forces and other Drug Law Enforcement Agencies on trafficking routes, repeat offenders, courier networks, source points, financial links and emerging substances.

The proposal seeks to build on the existing NCORD architecture and the National Integrated Database on Arrested Narco-Offenders (NIDAAN).

3. A Coordinated Mechanism to Follow the Financial Trail

Chennithala has proposed structured coordination among State Police forces, the Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate, FIU-IND and other competent agencies in major NDPS cases involving interstate or international networks.

Investigators, he said, should be equipped to follow hawala channels, mule bank accounts, digital-payment trails and virtual digital assets wherever the evidence leads.

“Following the money must become an integral part of following the drug.”

The objective, he said, must be to dismantle not merely the carriers of narcotics but also the financiers and organisers who sustain trafficking networks.

4. Review of Legal, Procedural and Enforcement Challenges

The letter calls for a structured consultation involving States, enforcement agencies, forensic experts, prosecutors and legal experts to examine emerging challenges under the NDPS framework.

Among the issues flagged are cases in which traffickers are alleged to split consignments in an attempt to remain below commercial-quantity thresholds, delays in forensic examination, prolonged proceedings relating to proceeds of narcotics trafficking, and the rapid emergence of synthetic and new psychoactive substances.

The letter notes that all these challenges may not necessarily require legislative amendments. Some may require changes in rules or procedures, greater forensic capacity, improved investigation protocols or other administrative measures.

Conference of Home Ministers Proposed

Chennithala has also requested the Union Government to convene a conference of the Home Ministers of all States and Union Territories focused on interstate narcotics trafficking and implementation of the Vision Document on Drug Control (2026–2029) released by Amit Shah at the 10th Apex-Level NCORD meeting.

Keralam has offered to host the conference.

Chennithala said such a meeting could bring States and Central agencies together to share operational experience, develop common protocols and identify gaps requiring coordinated national action.

Keralam, he said, would be ready to place its experience under Operation Toofan before the conference and work with the Union Government in developing its agenda.

“The fight against drugs is a fight for the future of our young people and must rise above political differences.”

Keralam stands ready to work with the Union Government, the NCB and every State and Union Territory to dismantle narcotics networks “from the source to the kingpin,” the Minister said

Chennithala has also sought an opportunity to discuss the proposals with the Union Home Minister.

Music is getting louder, makeup is getting bolder, and “Maybe It’s My Stage” is back with the volume turned all the way up. Following its debut in Mumbai with Spotify, Maybelline New York is taking its cultural IP into the festive season, bringing a new chapter of live entertainment, beauty experiences and high-energy moments. Rooted in the energy of each city’s festive season, the experience brings music, makeup and self-expression together, inviting everyone to find their look, own their moment, and take the spotlight.
 

As India steps into one of its most vibrant and culturally rich seasons, the festive edition brings some of the country’s biggest names in music into intimate, curated cultural experiences, creating a more personal way to experience live music, beauty and culture.

Adding to the excitement, the Maybelline New York Festive Express makes its India debut, bringing a distinctly New York-inspired experience to the heart of India’s festive celebrations. Its journey kicks off in Kolkata, where Pujo is more than a festival; it’s an emotion that brings the entire city alive.
 

Temsu Clover turns up the volume at Maybe It’s My Stage: The Festive Edition in Kolkata!
 

The Kolkata edition was designed to feel rooted in the city, with Pujo-inspired elements shaping the setting. The intimate format brought audiences closer to the music and the artist, with Temsu Clover taking the stage and turning up the energy. Known for her indie and soul-pop sound, Temsu has built a growing repertoire with tracks including “Blue,” “Cry fr You,” “Antidote” and “Slide.” Temsu’s superfans also got a special chance to meet the artist up close, making the night even more personal with music, fandom and plenty of memorable moments.
 

Rashmeet Kaur brings the glam, the beats and the Diwali energy to Maybe It’s My Stage in Delhi!
 

Next stop on the Festive Express: Diwali in Delhi, where the energy went up another notch. With everyone dressed to the nines, the celebration was in full swing. Rashmeet Kaur, known for her genre-blending sound that fuses Punjabi folk with pop and electronic influences, took the stage with an electrifying performance, bringing favourites like “Nadiyon Paar,” “Bajre Da Sitta” and “Ghana Kasoota” to life while sharing the stories behind her music. She also picked Mithai lipstick shades for her fans and reminisced about her favourite Diwali memories. Off stage, the festivities continued with lively rounds of mahjong and card games, keeping the energy high as attendees played for Maybelline goodies.
 

At both celebrations, the Super Stay Vinyl Ink Mithai Collection was put through a very real festive stress test. From digging into puchkas and festive treats to dancing, singing, laughing and expressing themselves, guests did it all without holding back, while their lipstick stayed on point through every bite, move and moment. The festive indulgences only added to the challenge, but the lipstick kept up with every beat, performance and celebration.

At the heart of the Festive Edition is Maybelline New York’s belief that there’s a stage for every version of you, across moods, genres and cities. And the show is far from over. With every stop, the Festive Express is set to turn up the volume on music, beauty and self-expression, bringing a fresh vibe to the “Maybe It’s My Stage” universe. Two cities down, more stages to set, and a whole lot of music and glam still waiting in the wings. This festive season, the spotlight is only getting bigger!

About Maybelline

Maybelline New York is the number one cosmetic brand in the world, available in over 120 countries. By combining technologically advanced formulas with on-trend expertise and New York City edge, Maybelline New York’s mission is to offer innovative, accessible, and effortless cosmetics for all. In 2020, Maybelline introduced Brave Together, a long-term program to support anxiety and depression worldwide. Brave Together provides critical one-on-one support, an online education hub, a variety of programming to help destigmatize the conversation around mental health and has committed to donate $10 million over the next five years to global and local organizations.

For more information log on to www.maybelline.com.

Instagram Handle: @maybelline_ind

MEROO, a professional nail care brand founded by Jitendra Kumar, officially launched its professional nail product range on October 5, 2026, at Taj West End, Bengaluru. The launch brought together renowned salon owners and nail artists from across Bengaluru to introduce a new range of professional nail care products developed to meet the evolving needs of the salon industry.
 

Prep, build, polish, glow! The complete MEROO nail edit: salon-grade results, HEMA-free gels and finishes made to last
 

Drawing on Jitendra Kumar’s experience in the salon supply business through Beauty Centre, a renowned salon supply store in Bengaluru operating since 2009, MEROO has been developed with a deep understanding of the requirements of salon owners, nail technicians and professional nail artists. The brand has invested over four years in research and development to create a product portfolio focused on balancing price, quality and trust.
 

“Having served the salon industry through Beauty Centre in Bengaluru since 2009, I’ve gained first-hand insight into the needs of salon owners and nail professionals. This experience, combined with over four years of research and development, led to MEROO—a professional nail care brand built around the three things the industry values most: price, quality and trust. Our vision is to empower nail professionals with reliable products that inspire creativity and deliver results,” said Jitendra Kumar, Founder of MEROO.
 

A Comprehensive Range of Professional Nail Products

MEROO’s product portfolio has been designed to support multiple stages of professional nail services, from nail preparation and enhancement to creative nail art and finishing. The range caters to professional nail technicians, nail salons and beauty academies seeking products for a diverse range of nail treatments and artistic applications.
 

The brand’s signature colour collection features 108 gel polish shades, alongside glitter, disco, cat-eye, neon and jelly finishes. Its broader portfolio includes builder gel bottles and jars, sculpting gels, platinum gels and acrylic systems, offering options for nail extensions, overlays and sculpted nail enhancements.
 

Complementing its colour and enhancement systems, MEROO also offers nail art products and professional accessories, including brushes, files, cuticle tools, magnets, drills, bits and UV lamps. This comprehensive product range is intended to support nail professionals across everyday salon services, contemporary nail trends and intricate nail art techniques.
 

Built Around the Needs of Salon Professionals

MEROO’s development has been shaped by its founder’s longstanding engagement with the professional salon industry. Through Beauty Centre, Jitendra Kumar has gained direct exposure to the products, preferences and practical considerations that influence purchasing decisions among salon owners and nail technicians.
 

This industry experience informed the brand’s four-year research and development journey, with a focus on creating a professional nail care portfolio that addresses the market’s expectations around price, quality and reliability.
 

The brand emphasises premium formulations, consistent quality, trend-forward colours and professional performance. Its stated product attributes include highly pigmented colours, self-levelling application and long-lasting wear, with HEMA-free and TPO-free options highlighted in its gel polish collection.
 

Building Partnerships Across the Professional Beauty Industry

With its launch in Bengaluru, MEROO aims to establish relationships with nail salons, independent nail technicians and beauty academies while contributing to the professional nail care segment in India.
 

The brand’s vision is to become a trusted professional nail care partner by combining a comprehensive product portfolio with an understanding of the everyday needs of salon businesses. By focusing on innovation, creativity, quality and dependable performance, MEROO seeks to support professionals in delivering high-quality nail services while exploring new techniques, finishes and trends.
 

The launch marks the beginning of MEROO’s journey to build a strong presence in the professional beauty industry and develop long-term partnerships with the salon community.
 

For more information about MEROO’s professional nail care products, visit www.meroo.in, follow @merooofficial on Instagram or contact the brand directly.
 

About MEROO

MEROO is a professional nail care brand dedicated to serving nail technicians, salons and beauty academies with a comprehensive portfolio of nail products. Its range includes gel polish and specialty colour collections, builder and sculpting gels, acrylic systems, nail art products and professional accessories. Founded by Jitendra Kumar, MEROO is built around the principles of innovation, quality, creativity, trust and performance, with a focus on developing products that meet the evolving needs of the professional salon industry.

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) is hosting the second International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Computing (ICAIC 2026), bringing together researchers, academicians, industry professionals and students from across the world to deliberate on emerging developments, research challenges and real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computing. The three-day conference, organised by the Department of Computer Science & Engineering, School of Computer Science & Engineering, commenced on October 22 and will conclude on October 24, 2026.

Dignitaries and experts in the ICAIC 2026 at Manipal University Jaipur

The inaugural session was graced by Dr. Somitra Kumar Sanadhya, Professor, Wadhwani School of AI & Intelligent Systems, IIT Kanpur, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Emmanuel S. Pilli, Professor, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT) Jaipur, as the Guest of Honour. Dr. Niti Nipun Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur; Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Pro-President, Manipal University Jaipur; and Dr. Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dean, Faculty of Science, Technology and Architecture, were also present at the inaugural ceremony, which began with the traditional lighting of the lamp.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, ICAIC 2025, the conference aims to provide an international platform for the exchange of research ideas, interdisciplinary collaboration and discussions on the evolving role of AI in addressing real-world challenges. The second edition has attracted an impressive response from the global research community, receiving 736 research paper submissions. Following a rigorous peer-review process, 81 papers were accepted, representing an acceptance rate of approximately 11 per cent and reflecting the conference’s emphasis on research quality and academic rigour.

The conference has drawn participation from 16 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Russia, Latvia, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Nigeria and India. The international participation underscores the growing relevance of AI and computing research and provides opportunities for knowledge exchange among researchers and professionals from diverse academic and technological backgrounds.

The technical programme is structured around three major tracks. The first, Artificial Intelligence and Its Applications, explores developments in healthcare, medical imaging, robotics and intelligent systems. The second, Open Innovation & Industry Applications, focuses on areas such as financial technology, sustainability, education and Industry 4.0. The third, Advanced Computational Techniques and Emerging Trends, addresses emerging areas including quantum computing, cybersecurity, explainable AI and augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Special sessions further explore Generative AI, intelligent healthcare, cloud security and sustainable digital transformation, highlighting the expanding applications of AI across sectors.

A significant academic outcome of ICAIC 2026 is the planned submission of all accepted and presented papers for publication in Springer’s Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems (LNNS) series in two volumes. The series is indexed in SCOPUS, DBLP, INSPEC and zbMATH, providing an established platform for disseminating research findings to the wider scientific and academic community.

Through ICAIC 2026, Manipal University Jaipur seeks to strengthen international research engagement, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and promote dialogue between academia and industry on emerging technologies. 

About Manipal University Jaipur
Established in 2011, Manipal University Jaipur is a NAAC A+ accredited institution and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). Located on a 122-acre campus in Rajasthan, the university offers programmes across diverse disciplines, including engineering, computer science, management, law, architecture, humanities and sciences. With an emphasis on academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, MUJ provides an environment that encourages students and faculty members to engage with emerging technologies and address contemporary societal challenges. The university continues to strengthen its national and international academic partnerships and research ecosystem in alignment with its vision of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation and preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global landscape.

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit – jaipur.manipal.edu