Highlighting the growing impact of geopolitical disruptions, climate variability, and global supply chain uncertainties on agriculture, Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) called for stronger national focus on preserving and strengthening India’s agricultural biodiversity, describing seed diversity and resilient crop genetics as critical strategic assets for ensuring long-term food security, farmer resilience, and supply chain stability.
 

Ajai Rana, Chairman, Federation of Seed Industry of India & MD & CEO, Savannah Seeds (left) and Dr Paresh Verma, Director General, Federation of Seed Industry of India
 

Ajai Rana, Chairman, FSII and CEO & MD, Savannah Seeds, said, “The world is increasingly realising that biodiversity is no longer only an environmental discussion. It is fundamentally linked to economic resilience, food security, and national preparedness. In agriculture, seed diversity acts as an insurance mechanism during periods of disruption, whether arising from climate events, geopolitical tensions, or supply chain shocks.”

He further added, “India’s vast agrobiodiversity is one of our greatest strategic strengths. Our thousands of indigenous crop varieties, region-specific seed systems, and strong scientific ecosystem provide resilience that many countries do not possess. Preserving and strengthening this diversity through innovation, breeding, and science-led agriculture must remain a national priority.”

FSII noted that India remains one of the world’s richest agrobiodiversity regions, with thousands of traditional rice landraces, diverse millet varieties, pulses, oilseeds, and regionally adapted crops that have evolved over generations to withstand varying climatic and ecological conditions. The industry body emphasized that diverse and locally adaptive seed systems become especially important during periods of global uncertainty, helping stabilize productivity and reduce vulnerability to supply disruptions.

Rana also highlighted the increasing role of modern breeding technologies, biotechnology, and genome editing in enhancing agricultural resilience. Recent advancements in climate-resilient, drought-tolerant, flood-tolerant, and nutrient-efficient crop varieties are helping farmers cope with changing climatic conditions while improving productivity and resource-use efficiency. “Between 2014 and 2025, nearly 3,000 climate-resilient crop varieties were developed under national breeding programmes, including drought-tolerant, flood-tolerant, heat-resilient, and nutrient-efficient varieties aimed at improving productivity under stress conditions,” he said.

Dr Paresh Verma, Director General, FSII, said, “The future of agricultural resilience will depend on our ability to combine traditional biodiversity with modern science. Biotechnology, precision breeding, and genome editing are enabling the development of crop varieties that are more resilient to heat, drought, pests, and changing climatic conditions without compromising productivity.”

He emphasized India’s growing seed ecosystem can transform agrobiodiversity into a major strategic and economic advantage. The Federation noted that India currently has over 30,000 registered seed varieties and an estimated domestic seed market of nearly Rs 30,000 crore. With supportive policy reforms, stronger R&D incentives, and regulatory ease, FSII estimates that India could increase its share in global seed exports from nearly 1% currently to 10% by 2035, positioning the country as a major global seed hub.

FSII noted that biodiversity in agriculture should be viewed not only from a conservation perspective, but also as a strategic pillar of economic stability, farmer welfare, and national food resilience. The Federation called for continued support towards seed research, crop improvement, conservation of indigenous germplasm, and policy frameworks that encourage innovation-led and science-based agricultural development.

Two student-led innovation teams from Galgotias University will represent India at the Global EDVentures Startup Competition 2026 at The Education University of Hong Kong, where university founders from across Asia will present technology-driven ideas attempting to rethink how learning is experienced, accessed, and delivered under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): Quality Education.

Two student-led teams from Galgotias University will represent India at the Global EDVentures Startup Competition 2026 in Hong Kong with education-tech innovations

The two teams are working on different but equally relevant problems within education technology, one exploring how Virtual Reality can make complex concepts easier to experience and understand, and the other attempting to make coding education more accessible for visually impaired learners through tactile interaction systems. Their selection also comes at a relevant juncture when the global education technology market is seeing growing interest in immersive learning and accessibility-focused innovation.

Startup Tekurious Pvt. Limited includes Akash Kumar, a third-year B.Tech Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) student from the Class of 2027, Yash Vardhan, a third-year B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology student from the Class of 2026 at the School of Biosciences and Technology, and Anoop Maurya, a fourth-year B.Tech Artificial Intelligence & Data Science student from the Batch of 2022–2026 at Galgotias College of Engineering and Technology. The startup is building a Virtual Reality-enabled immersive learning platform designed to help students understand complex academic concepts through interactive simulations rather than passive textbook instruction.

Speaking about the journey behind the idea, Akash Kumar shared that the startup began with a simple belief that students understand concepts far better when they can experience them rather than memorise them. He added that representing their work at EDVentures in Hong Kong gives the team an opportunity to showcase how immersive learning technologies can improve engagement and accessibility across classrooms.

Project TACTO comprises Gaurang Pant, a third-year B.Tech Computer Science Engineering student from the Class of 2027, Shristi Mandoliya, a second-year B.Tech Computer Science Engineering (Data Science) student from the Class of 2028, and Kavya Singh, a third-year BBA Financial Investment Analysis student from the Batch of 2023–2026 at the School of Finance & Commerce, Galgotias University. The team is developing a tactile hardware-based coding system for visually impaired learners, translating abstract programming logic into physical interaction through modular blocks supported by sensing technologies and real-time audio feedback.

Sharing the experience behind building Project TACTO, Gaurang Pant said the idea emerged from conversations around how visually impaired learners often face barriers in coding education because of screen-dependent interfaces. He noted that presenting the project at EDVentures would allow the team to engage with educators and innovators working toward more inclusive models of programming education.

The EDVentures Competition will bring together student innovation teams from leading institutions including Nanyang Technological University, National Institute of Education Singapore, King Saud University, East China Normal University, Universitas Indonesia, and Ajman University, placing the Galgotias teams alongside a wider Asian network of young founders building technology-led responses to how people learn, access knowledge, and experience education.

Speaking on the opportunity, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “As internationalisation becomes an increasing area of focus for the University, opportunities such as EDVentures allow our students to engage with global educators, researchers, and student founders working on similar challenges. When students begin building solutions for real learning problems and present them on international platforms, it reflects the confidence they are developing as innovators and problem-solvers with relevance beyond their immediate surroundings.”

Highlighting the importance of global exposure for emerging founders, Rachit Mathur, entrepreneur and mentor to students at the Galgotias Incubation Centre, said “Exposure to a global platform like EDVentures allows student founders to test their ideas in diverse academic environments and learn from different perspectives. This year’s SDG-4 theme has encouraged teams to connect inclusive education goals with emerging technologies such as AI and immersive learning systems. Experiences like this help young founders refine solutions into scalable innovations.”

Galgotias has been steadily expanding its startup and innovation ecosystem through industry-linked Centres of Excellence, advanced technology labs, and structured incubation support for student founders. The university has incubated more than 135 startups so far and has established the INR 10 crore Galgotias Innovation Fund to support emerging student-led ventures.

Galgotias University has also developed specialised labs and Centres of Excellence in collaboration with organisations including Intel, Cisco, Apple, Salesforce, Tata Technologies, and Capgemini, alongside a high-performance computing ecosystem powered by the NVIDIA DGX H200, giving students access to industry-grade infrastructure and emerging technology platforms. Reflecting the expanding culture of applied innovation on campus, 34 student-developed applications are currently live on the Apple App Store, while 18 Galgotias students were selected among the global winners of the Apple Swift Student Challenge.

Both teams are currently undergoing structured mentoring support as part of their preparation for participation in the global competition. The participation of both teams reflects how student-led innovation at Galgotias University is increasingly moving beyond classroom projects into globally relevant problem-solving around accessibility, immersive learning, and the future of education technology.

A brand new 30,000-acre city. Three bullet trains. A trillion-dollar economy by 2034. That is the kind of Hyderabad, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is building and he laid it all out, in plain words, at the Way2News Conclave this week.

Ajitesh Korupolu, CEO and founder of ASBL with CM Revanth Reddy at Way2News conclave

Top political leaders, policy makers, and creators gathered to map out the state’s future. Right at the centre of the conversation was ASBL, a key part of the conclave from start to finish, joining the panel discussions, backing the event’s vision, and standing out as one of the strongest voices on Hyderabad’s growth story. By the close of the evening, ASBL was also awarded with ‘Most Innovative Builder of the Decade.’ But the spotlight, fittingly, stayed on the CM, who used the stage to lay out exactly where Telangana is heading.

On Hyderabad’s real estate, the CM spoke with absolute confidence. He made it clear that while the market has shown a lot of progress, it has barely scratched the surface of its true potential. The city is ready to move at a much faster pace. While global shifts like changing economies or the rise of AI are altering how people work and live, Hyderabad is built to handle it. Over the last seven years, the city’s real estate has only moved upward, a fact strongly backed by official reports from the CAG, NITI Aayog, and the GST department. For the CM, this past growth is just a small preview; the real story is the massive, untapped future that Hyderabad is now ready to unlock.

When asked about the apparent slowdown in the current real estate market and investments, the CM addressed the online noise directly. He stated simply “people putting investment into propaganda, writing lies themselves and believing them.”

Pointing to the Financial District, he said, the area has become a major global hub because the government focused on providing top-tier infrastructure, allowing private builders to do what they do best and creating a space where top global companies want to invest. Today, nearly 10 lakh people work there. Highlighting the incredible demand in the micro-market, he noted that land in nearby Raidurg’s Knowledge Park recently sold for a record INR 184 crore per acre. The lesson, he said, is simple: the government’s core job is to deliver excellent foundational infrastructure like the metro, high-speed highways, and seamless airport connectivity, which gives investors and builders the confidence to develop the city.

Bharat Future City, his boldest move, the CM spoke about a brand new 30,000-acre city coming up near Hyderabad. No Indian state, he said, has tried building a full new city at this scale. Earlier projects like the Financial District were just 400 to 500 acres. Future City, he believes, can stand alongside New York, Tokyo, and Singapore.

On connectivity, the plans are big. A 12-lane expressway and rail line will link Future City to Machilipatnam port, located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. And of the seven new bullet trains being rolled out by the Centre, three are coming to Telangana with Hyderabad as the hub, linking Hyderabad to Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai.

The bigger picture stayed with him throughout. Telangana has just 3% of India’s population but already contributes 5% of GDP. He wants that to double to 10%, and push the state’s economy past USD 1 trillion by 2034. Hyderabad and the real estate ecosystem around it sits right at the centre of that push.

ASBL strongly shares this forward-thinking vision for Hyderabad and has been actively contributing to the city’s development. While the government builds the master infrastructure, ASBL focuses on building the actual spaces that match this high-growth future. Today, ASBL operates 10 million square feet of space with another 10 million in the pipeline, ensuring that as Hyderabad grows toward its trillion-dollar future, ASBL is right there building it.

By bringing both new-age construction and sharp thought leadership to the table, ASBL’s presence at the conclave showed exactly why it is leading the way in shaping how the city lives and grows.

For more information, please log on to www.asbl.in.

What will Telangana look like ten years from now? This was the big question at the Way2News Conclave 2026, held on May 15 at the JRC Convention & Trade Fairs in Jubilee Hills. Top political leaders, policy makers, and creators gathered to map out the state’s future. ASBL, a real estate developer was awarded with “Most Innovative Builder of the Decade”. The landmark conclave featured visionary future insights from Telangana Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, and several other key leaders. 

Ajitesh Korupolu, CEO and founder of ASBL in a panel discussion at Way2News conclave

During a panel discussion on economy and business strategies, ASBL Founder and CEO, Ajitesh Korupolu, shared a highly optimistic vision for the city, praising the Way2News team for hosting the event and highlighting why Hyderabad is uniquely positioned for greatness. Korupolu further emphasized the immense multiplier effect of the sector, noting that real estate drives the entire economy forward through its linkages with over 250 ancillary industries including cement, steel, logistics, and retail, while acting as India’s second-largest employer. “Hyderabad is one of the rarest cities in India because we don’t depend on just one industry,” Korupolu noted during the panel. “We have IT, pharma, aerospace, defense tech, and data centers. In fact, 47% of all new Global Capability Centers (GCCs) coming to India are choosing Hyderabad. With the government’s excellent model of building infrastructure first and allowing development to follow, Hyderabad is well on its way to becoming the deep tech capital of India.”

He highlighted that the growth in Hyderabad’s suburban and outer areas is a great example of smart planning. The government builds consistent infrastructure first, and there is plenty of land and water available. By introducing policies gradually instead of all at once, the state avoids sudden market shocks, creating a stable, long-term environment where both builders and home buyers can thrive.

This forward-thinking perspective aligns perfectly with why ASBL, a prominent real estate developer in Hyderabad, received the decade’s top innovation title. The company was recognized for its work in changing how homes are designed, built, and managed. In a traditional real estate landscape, developers often operate in a blind spot, severely lacking the data and consumer insights needed to actually improve the living experience. Recognizing this critical gap, ASBL shifted the paradigm by operating less like a conventional builder and more like a technology company that happens to do real estate. By embedding technology into every single stage of the process, the company captures vital data that allows them to address current pain points and proactively design spaces so that future residents don’t face these everyday problems. This customer-first mindset, backed by heavy use of data and artificial intelligence (AI), is precisely what earned them the decade’s top innovation title.

ASBL collects and analyzes data to understand the real daily challenges people face and use those insights to design layouts that genuinely make life easier. To tackle the construction problems, they created a “Digital Twin” system where every building is mapped out digitally first, allowing teams to assign tasks clearly and upload proof of work in real-time to keep construction fast, on time, and high quality. Finally, they ensure a smooth buying and living experience by completely digitizing the paperwork process, making it incredibly simple for anyone, including NRIs living abroad, to buy a home without endless physical visits. Once residents move in, they use the Homes by ASBL app to effortlessly manage daily chores, book amenities, and raise service requests.

This tech-forward strategy is already working at a massive scale. ASBL is currently operating 10 million square feet of space, with another 10 million square feet already in the pipeline, deeply focusing on the growth of Hyderabad. By bringing both cutting-edge technology to construction and thought leadership to the state’s economic conversations, ASBL’s prominent presence at the conclave proved exactly why they are leading the way in shaping how the city lives and grows.

For more information, please visit: asbl.in.

Bharat Exhibitions hosted the 4^th edition of Bharat 6G 2026, a premier industry conference and exhibition bringing together key stakeholders from the telecom, technology, and policy ecosystem to shape the future of next-generation connectivity in India. The one-day conference and exhibition convened policymakers, telecom operators, global technology providers, academia, and startups to discuss the roadmap, innovations, and collaborative strategies needed to drive India’s leadership in 6G development. Bharat 6G 2026 featured insightful keynote sessions, panel discussions, and industry presentations focusing on emerging technologies, use cases, and the transformative potential of 6G across sectors such as smart cities, healthcare, manufacturing, and digital infrastructure.The conference aims to foster dialogue, encourage partnerships, and accelerate the development of a robust 6G ecosystem aligned with India’s vision for a digitally empowered future.

Left to Right: Jitendra Singh, Qualcomm, Anil Tandan, BIF, Rahul Vatts, Bharti Airtel, A Robert J Ravi, BSNL, AK Tiwari, Reliance Jio, Abhinav Puri, 6D Technologies, Shashi Dharan, BE

Speaking at the event, Mr. Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions, said, “Bharat 6G 2026 is a strategic platform to bring together industry leaders and innovators to collectively define the next phase of connectivity. India has a unique opportunity to play a leading role in the global 6G landscape, and this conference will help drive that vision forward.”The Conference began with a plenary session which explored how 6G research, standards, and policy frameworks are evolving in alignment with the circular economy. The discussion focuses on building sustainable, energy-efficient, and resource-optimized network ecosystems, while accelerating global standardization, industry collaboration, and innovation roadmaps to make 6G future-ready and environmentally responsible. Moderated by Mr. Debashish Chakraborty, the panel brought together industry leaders including Mr. R.K. Pathak, Mr. Bharat Bhatia, Mr. Dinesh Chand Sharma, Dr. Sandip Chatterjee, Mr. Jitendra Singh and Dr. Sonali Garg, representing key organizations across the 6G and standards ecosystem.

The inaugural session of Bharat 6G 2026 set the tone for India’s leadership in the global 6G era, highlighting the nation’s strategic vision, transition towards AI-native networks, and the role of 6G in driving connectivity, sustainability, and inclusive digital transformation. Industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts underscored the importance of innovation, collaboration, and standardization in shaping next-generation networks. Guest of Honour, Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, ITS, Chairman & Managing Director, BSNL said, “6G will play a transformative role in expanding connectivity, bridging digital divides, and enabling inclusive growth across India.India is not just preparing for 6G—we are shaping its global direction. Bharat’s 6G vision reflects our ambition to lead the next digital revolution globally”. Mr. AK Tiwari, President (Regulatory), Reliance Jio noted, “India’s 6G vision is centered on innovation, sustainability, and global standardization leadership, positioning the country at the forefront of the next telecom revolution.” Mr. Rahul Vatts, Chief Regulatory Officer (India & South Asia), Bharti Airtel, stated his speech, “The transition to 6G is about innovation, collaboration, and delivering future-ready digital experiences at scale.” While another speaker, Mr. Gulshan Khurana, EVP (Technology), Vodafone Idea, was heard quoting, “India has the opportunity to lead the global 6G landscape through innovation, collaboration, and strong policy alignment. The future of networks lies in intelligence, sustainability, and seamless connectivity—and 6G will bring it all together.” Brig. Anil Tandan, Director General, Broadband India Forum, Mr. Abhinav Puri, Director, 6D Technologies, also joined during the session as keynote speakers. They all reiterated on India’s Bharat 6G Vision that aims to position the country as a global leader in 6G by 2030, focusing on indigenous innovation, affordability, sustainability, and universal connectivity.

As India positions itself as a global leader in 6G innovation, the conference underscores the nation’s commitment to developing ultra-high-speed, AI-driven, and sustainable communication networks that will power the next wave of digital transformation. The day saw several impactful sessions led by eminent speakers from industry and policy domains.The Conference is supported by an ecosystem of leading partners including Broadband India Forum (Knowledge Partner), TSDSI (Standards Partner), 6D Technologies (Presenting Partner), Qualcomm (Powered By), BSNL (Host Operator), Altius (Digital Infra Partner), Syniverse (Roaming Monetization Partner), Rohde & Schwarz (Gold Partner), STPI (Supporting Partner), Techspire(Conference Partner), Commscope and SAARTEK (Associate Partners), with industry bodies such as Bharat 6G Alliance, DIPA, ETSI, GSMA, and IAFI, and media partner Communications Today.The event aims to strengthen India’s position in the global 6G landscape.

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, announced the expansion of its Philips Smart Light Hub (SLH) network across India as consumers are increasingly adopting smart and connected home solutions for convenience, personalization and energy efficiency. This marks a coordinated, pan-India rollout of new experience stores aimed at strengthening the company’s retail footprint across key markets.

Signify Expands Philips Smart Light Hub Network Across India to 345 Stores

As part of this expansion, key Smart Light Hub launches are scheduled across cities including Noida, Delhi, Sonipat, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Raipur, Bareilly, Solan, Vijayawada, Madhyamgram and other markets throughout the month. This expansion reflects Signify’s continued focus on bringing advanced lighting solutions closer to customers through an integrated retail experience. The Smart Light Hubs are designed to cater to evolving consumer needs by offering a comprehensive portfolio of lighting solutions across categories.

Signify Expands Philips Smart Light Hub Network Across India to 345 Stores

Commenting on the announcement, C Arun Kumar, Head of Consumer Business – Signify, Greater India, said, “Indian consumers today are increasingly viewing lighting as an extension of their lifestyle and home design choices. As homes become more connected, personalized and experience-led, we are seeing a growing demand for smart, aesthetic and design-forward lighting solutions that enhance both ambience and everyday living. With a new Smart Light Hub being inaugurated almost every two days this month, the rapid expansion underlines both the growing demand for smarter home experiences and our focus on strengthening consumer access to innovative lighting solutions across India. Through these hubs, consumers will discover lighting solutions that blend technology, design and personalization, while helping us strengthen our connection with the next generation of homeowners seeking smarter and more meaningful living experiences.“

Signify Expands Philips Smart Light Hub Network Across India to 345 Stores

Philips Smart Light Hub is designed to offer customers immersive experience, enabling them to explore a wide range of lighting solutions across decorative, functional and smart lighting categories. This rollout sets the foundation for the next phase of growth, with a sharper focus on how customers discover and experience lighting across formats and cities.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating. News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

India’s love affair with sport utility vehicles is one of the most documented stories in the country’s automotive industry. The Cars24 and Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 report confirms that this shift has reached the used car market as well, with SUV share climbing from 15 percent in 2023 to 32 percent in 2025. And yet, when it comes to the top 10 most-bought used cars in India, only one SUV makes the cut. The Hyundai Creta, ranked ninth with a 2.05 percent share, stands alone.

Cars24 x Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 Report

The report frames this as one of the more interesting tensions in India’s used car market in 2025. As it notes, compact SUVs are gaining ground but remain a secondary choice, with Creta at number nine reflecting growing aspiration without yet challenging hatchback dominance.

The hatchback wall the Creta is up against

To understand why only one SUV has cracked the top 10, it helps to look at what is occupying the rest of it. The Gears of Growth 2025 report lists Maruti Swift at the top with a 4.93 percent share, followed by Wagon R at 3.47 percent and Hyundai i10 at 3.46 percent. Honda City sits at fourth, Swift Dzire at fifth, Baleno at sixth, Grand i10 at seventh and Elite i20 at eighth. After Creta at ninth, the Renault Kwid closes the list at tenth.

Seven of the top 10 are hatchbacks. Two are sedans. Just one is an SUV. The report describes hatchbacks as the backbone of India’s used car market, with the Swift, Wagon R and i10 leading the charts thanks to their reliability, practicality and low running costs. These are the qualities that translate most directly into used car demand, and they sit at the heart of why the SUV revolution has been slower to flow into resale than into new car sales.

Why Creta is the SUV that broke through

The Creta’s presence in the top 10 is not accidental. The Gears of Growth 2025 report places the Creta on a second, more selective list as well: the country’s premium used car set. According to the report, premium used car demand is led by models such as Creta, City, Nexon and Elite i20, indicating a strong appetite for feature-rich vehicles.

This dual presence, both in the volume top 10 and in the premium list, makes the Creta something of a category translator. It is the SUV that has crossed over from aspiration to actual transaction volume. The report attributes this kind of premium pull to feature depth, safety credentials and brand trust emerging as key decision drivers in premium used car purchases. The Creta, having been one of India’s most-bought new SUVs for years, naturally has the scale and brand equity to dominate this corner of the used market.

The aspiration gap, and what it tells us

The interesting question the Gears of Growth 2025 report surfaces is why other SUVs have not joined Creta in the top 10. Body type data shows that SUVs have moved from 15 percent share in 2023 to 19 percent in 2024 and 32 percent in 2025, a near-doubling in two years. Sedans, over the same period, have collapsed from 28 percent to 16 percent. The shift is real and rapid. But it is not yet translating into a multi-SUV presence at the top of the model rankings.

Part of the answer lies in the way used car markets work. New cars become used cars only after a few years of ownership, and the recent SUV boom in India is still working its way through the resale cycle. The report flags this directly in its analysis of average selling prices, noting that one of the factors pushing ASP upward is the supply constraints in newer vehicles, with limited availability of lightly-used, recent model-year cars. SUV demand, in other words, is running ahead of SUV supply in the used car market.

What this means for the Indian auto industry

The Creta’s position as the sole SUV in India’s top 10 used cars list is a useful corrective to the assumption that the SUV wave has comprehensively rewritten Indian car buying. Hatchbacks still account for 52 percent of total volume. Sedans hold 16 percent. SUVs, despite their headline growth, are at 32 percent in aggregate but represented by only one model at the top of the rankings.

This points to two parallel realities. The first is that aspiration in India’s used car market is moving quickly, and SUVs are likely to occupy more slots in the top 10 in the years ahead as today’s new SUVs become tomorrow’s used cars. The second is that the practical, value-driven hatchback remains the structural foundation of the market. The Gears of Growth 2025 report captures the moment when both realities sit in clear, measurable balance. For now, the Creta stands as the bridge between these two worlds, the one SUV that has crossed over into the volume top 10.

Aman Tea Group commemorated International Tea Day through a large-scale initiative conducted across more than 50 locations, bringing together growers, workers, and tea communities in a collective effort to recognise the people behind the industry while reinforcing the importance of sustainability and responsible tea cultivation.
 

Rajeev Baid, Managing Director at Aman Tea Group, highlighting the importance of sustainability, safe farming practices, and supporting tea growing communities
 

The initiative focused on honouring small growers and tea workers who play a critical role in sustaining the tea ecosystem, while also encouraging conversations around safe farming practices, quality awareness, and the long-term future of the industry.
 

As part of its ongoing commitment towards responsible tea cultivation, Aman Tea Group has been consistently engaging with growers and farming communities across tea producing regions, particularly in West Bengal, to create greater awareness around sustainable farming practices and the importance of safe tea production at the source.

The programmes organised on International Tea Day reflected this year’s global focus on strengthening livelihoods and advancing sustainability across the tea sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Baid said, “Tea has always been deeply connected to people and communities. Behind every cup are thousands of growers, workers, and families whose contribution often goes unseen. International Tea Day is an important reminder to recognise and appreciate their role in shaping the industry. At Aman Tea Group, we believe sustainability is not just a conversation for the future, but a responsibility that begins today at the ground level. Supporting safe farming practices, building awareness among growers, and strengthening the ecosystem around tea are essential for ensuring the long-term future of the industry.”

Over the years, Aman Tea Group has continued to focus on building stronger engagement with growers and tea communities while encouraging practices that support both quality and sustainability.

The company reiterated that the future of tea will increasingly depend not only on production and market demand, but also on how responsibly the industry approaches cultivation, community development, and environmental stewardship.

About Aman Tea Group
Aman Tea Group is a diversified tea enterprise engaged across tea production, sourcing, manufacturing, and brand building. Through its associated brands and tea estates, the group continues to focus on quality, sustainability, and creating differentiated tea experiences while remaining deeply connected to the roots of the industry.

KCG College of Technology, a premier unit of the Hindustan Group of Institutions (HGI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sumeet Urban Services (Chennai) V Pvt Ltd (Urbaser Sumeet) to strengthen industry-academia collaboration in the areas of sustainability, waste management, environmental awareness, and skill development.

KCG College of Technology and Urbaser Sumeet signed an MoU to promote sustainability and waste management initiatives for students in Chennai

The collaboration aims to create a long-term industry-integrated sustainability model that will actively engage students in solving real-world urban environmental challenges in Chennai.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at the KCG campus in the presence of Mr Albert Gleiser Ignacio, Managing Director; Mr S. Shankar, Zonal Manager; Ms Komal Gotham Chand, Head – IEC; and Mr Vignesh, Manager – IEC, representing Sumeet Urban Services, alongside Dr Annie Jacob, Director, and Dr G. Prabhakaran, Principal In-Charge of KCG College of Technology. The event also saw the participation of faculty members, Heads of Departments, students, and institutional representatives.

The partnership will focus on sustainability initiatives, waste management awareness, green innovation, social responsibility, and practical exposure for students in environmental systems and urban sanitation management.

As part of the initiative, students are expected to participate in clean-up drives, awareness campaigns, sustainability workshops, internships, innovation challenges, and field-level waste management activities over the coming academic cycles.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Anand Jacob Varghese, Chairman, Hindustan Group of Institutions, emphasised the importance of developing civic consciousness and environmental responsibility among students from an early stage.

“Engineering education today must go beyond laboratories and classrooms. When our students walk alongside conservancy workers, manage waste drives, and design recycling solutions for their own city, they are not just learning — they are becoming the kind of engineers and citizens Chennai needs. This partnership with Urbaser Sumeet is a step towards making that the norm, not the exception,” said Dr Anand Jacob Varghese.

He noted that institutions must play an active role in nurturing socially responsible engineers and innovators capable of contributing to sustainable urban development.

Dr Annie Jacob, Director, KCG College of Technology, highlighted the role played by Urbaser Sumeet in Chennai’s conservancy and sanitation ecosystem and expressed confidence that the collaboration would lead to meaningful student-led environmental engagement programmes.

“Urbaser Sumeet manages one of Chennai’s most critical urban services, and having that expertise embedded into our campus programmes is a significant advantage for our students. From internships in waste vehicle operations to the Edubridge initiative for conservancy workers’ children, this collaboration is built around real impact — not just awareness,” said Dr Annie Jacob.

She further noted that the collaboration will help bridge classroom learning with practical environmental problem-solving through direct industry exposure and community participation.

Under the MoU, students of KCG College of Technology will participate in clean-up campaigns, awareness drives, workshops, and internships related to waste management systems and vehicle operations.

The collaboration will also include hackathons, innovation challenges, practical training sessions, and professional certification opportunities focused on environmental sustainability and circular economy practices.

The partnership is also expected to encourage research-oriented projects in areas such as waste segregation, recycling systems, circular economy models, and smart urban sustainability solutions.

One of the major initiatives under the collaboration is “Edubridge,” a programme aimed at supporting the education and empowerment of children of conservancy workers.

The initiative also seeks to create stronger community engagement and social inclusion by recognising and supporting the families of frontline sanitation workers.

Urbaser Sumeet will additionally serve as the hygiene partner for major institutional events at KCG and will demonstrate best practices in source segregation, solid waste management, and urban cleanliness systems.

Mr Albert Gleiser Ignacio, Managing Director, Urbaser Sumeet, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to collaborative environmental action.

“We operate on the ground every day across Chennai’s neighbourhoods, and we know that lasting change in how a city handles its waste begins with how the next generation thinks about it. Partnering with KCG gives us the opportunity to bring that ground reality into an academic setting and build a pipeline of professionals who are genuinely invested in sustainable urban systems,” said Mr Albert Gleiser Ignacio.

The collaboration promotes the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R) and aims to foster environmentally conscious practices among students and the larger academic community.

Both organisations also expressed their commitment to building a scalable and replicable model for sustainable campus-community partnerships in the future.

Andamanda Phuket, the island’s largest water park, spanning over 100,000 square meters, is inspired by Thai mythology and the Andaman Sea. A proud recipient of the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025 and ranked among the Trip Best Global Top 100 Family- Friendly Attractions, Andamanda delivers a world-class tropical experience for thrill-seeker families and leisure travellers alike.

Andamanda Phuket – where thrills, culture, flavours, and family memories come together for a world-class experience unlike anything back home

25 Attractions. 36 Slides. Zero Dull Moments.
Spread across five iconic zones inspired by Thai mythology, Andamanda offers something for every kind of visitor:
 

• 36 slide lanes, from heart-pounding drops to family-friendly twists, the most in Phuket.

• Southeast Asia’s longest lazy river- 550 metres of pure relaxation winding through tropical scenery.

• A 10,000m² wave pool- generating waves up to 3 metres high. Prepare to get knocked off your feet.

• Private cabanas & water villas- with air conditioning and restrooms, for those who like their downtime in style.

• Dedicated kids’ zones- with lifeguards and age-appropriate splash areas, so the little ones have their own adventure.

More Than Slides – A Living Cultural Experience
Andamanda brings Thai heritage to life every single day. Daily live entertainment includes a Muay Thai showcase and “The Story of Andamanda”–a breathtaking live performance of music, dance, and Thai folklore that you will not find in any other water park in the world. The park’s mythological sculptures, traditional architecture, and five legend-themed zones make every corner worth exploring and photographing.
 

Food for Every Taste
Andamanda’s dining options are built with all guests in mind. You will find authentic Thai classics alongside international favourites, plus vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free options. Indian favourites are also well-represented: chicken and vegetable samosas, butter chicken, and fragrant biryani keep the whole family happy and energised. With multiple restaurants spread across the park, a great meal is always close by.
 

Tickets and Visitor Information
Tickets are available online via the official website at andamanda.com.

Advance booking is recommended to ensure availability and access to the best available rates. A full day here never feels long enough. Andamanda keeps the energy high from morning until closing.

www.andamandaphuket.com
www.linkedin.com/company/andamandaphuket
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