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AONSAT 2026 by Amity Online Sets National Benchmark as India's First and Largest Online Scholarship Admission Test for Online Degrees

  • The inaugural edition of Amity Online National Scholarship Aptitude Test recognized and rewarded academic excellence at a national scale, with 12 outstanding top rankers across undergraduate and postgraduate categories receiving merit-based scholarships.

  • AONSAT 2026 witnessed participation from thousands of learners across 495 cities, representing all 35 states C Union Territories, making it India’s largest online scholarship admission test for online degree programs by any university in India.

 

Amity University Online, India’s first and leading online university, has successfully concluded the first edition of the Amity Online National Scholarship Aptitude Test (AONSAT) 2026, which has emerged as India’s largest online scholarship admission test for online degree programs initiated by any university. The nationwide initiative witnessed an overwhelming response from aspiring undergraduate and postgraduate learners seeking flexible, accessible, and merit-driven higher education opportunities.

 

AONSAT celebrated academic excellence nationwide, awarding merit-based scholarships to 12 top-performing undergraduate and postgraduate students


AONSAT 2026 witnessed participation from learners across India – from Andaman C Nicobar Islands to Tripura, from Ludhiana to Kochi – showcasing the truly national reach of online higher education. The test recorded registrations from over 495 cities including metropolitan cities, Tier 2 C Tier 3 cities, and upcountry regions. Thousands of learners have successfully qualified through the test and have already begun their practice preparation, further reflecting the increasing acceptance and aspiration towards online higher education among India’s youth.


The inaugural edition of AONSAT recognized and rewarded academic excellence at a national scale, with 12 outstanding winners across undergraduate and postgraduate categories receiving merit-based scholarships. The winners represent a diverse mix of learners from different educational, cultural, and regional backgrounds across India, further reinforcing the growing inclusivity, accessibility, and nationwide reach of digitally enabled higher education. Through its merit-led scholarship framework, AONSAT aims to make quality higher education more accessible and create meaningful opportunities for aspiring learners across the country.


Abhishek Kushwaha, PG Topper s 100% Scholarship Recipient, said, “AONSAT has created an incredible opportunity for learners like me who aspire to pursue quality higher education from a reputed institution. Winning a 100% scholarship from Amity University Online has strengthened my confidence and given me a strong foundation to pursue my professional goals.


Speaking on the overwhelming response, Ajit Chauhan, Chairman, Amity University Online, said, “AONSAT 2026 reflects the evolving aspirations of India’s youth, who are increasingly seeking flexible, future-ready, and globally relevant higher education opportunities. At Amity University Online, we believe that quality education should not be limited by geography or financial barriers. Through initiatives like AONSAT, we are creating a transparent and merit-driven ecosystem that empowers learners and contributes towards building a stronger knowledge economy for the nation. As India moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, online education will play a transformative role in expanding access, nurturing talent at scale, and positioning India as a global education hub for the future. Such initiatives will also play an important role in supporting India’s National Education Policy vision of achieving a 50% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education by 2035.”


Raushan Kumar, UG Topper s 100% Scholarship Recipient, Said, “For many students like me, quality higher education from a reputed university often feels like a distant dream. AONSAT has changed that by creating a platform where talent and dedication are truly recognized. Receiving a 100% scholarship from Amity University Online has given me the confidence to pursue my goals with a larger vision and prepare myself for opportunities in a globally connected world. I believe initiatives like AONSAT can inspire and empower thousands of young learners across India to aspire for world-class education and a better future.


India is currently at a crucial stage in its journey to expand access to higher education, with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aiming to increase the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) from the current 28% to 50% by 2035. Scalable and digitally enabled initiatives like AONSAT can play a transformative role by expanding access and identifying deserving learners on a large scale. Industry and policy reports indicate that India may require nearly 86 million higher education enrolments by 2035 to meet this vision, making scalable digital learning models and scholarship-led initiatives increasingly important for the future of education.


Building on the tremendous response to the inaugural edition, Amity University Online has announced that the second edition of AONSAT will be announced soon, further strengthening its mission to make quality higher education more accessible, affordable, and inclusive for learners across India.


The initiative reflects Amity University Online’s larger vision of enabling education without boundaries through technology-enabled learning models, scholarship support, and scalable digital education platforms. As India moves towards a knowledge-driven economy, initiatives such as AONSAT are expected to play an important role in increasing educational participation, creating awareness around online higher education, and enabling social mobility at scale.

The Benefits Making Electric Vehicles Increasingly Popular in India

For many Indian consumers, electric vehicles are increasingly becoming a practical solution that combines lower running costs, quieter urban mobility, improved driving comfort and long-term sustainability.

 

VinFast is also supporting EV adoption in India through a wide range of ownership incentives

 

The momentum for EVs in India is getting stronger as more and more buyers are embracing electric vehicles. India’s EV market surged in 2025, with E4W sales rising 86% year over year to more than 187,000 units. Momentum has continued into 2026: Electric passenger vehicle sales jumped 75.14% in April to 23,506 units, up from 13,421 a year earlier, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations.

 

There are several reasons that could explain this surge.

 

Cleaner air for Indian cities

Air pollution remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in India. Cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru frequently record unhealthy AQI levels, especially during peak traffic hours and winter months. The health impact is significant. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is associated with around 7 million premature deaths annually worldwide.

 

As a result, the transition to electric mobility is increasingly viewed as part of the solution. Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, helping reduce pollutants such as CO2, nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide that are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

 

Beyond exhaust emissions, EVs can also help reduce brake particulate pollution thanks to regenerative braking systems. Research and policy discussions published by the OECD highlight that regenerative braking significantly lowers brake wear emissions.

 

For Indian consumers increasingly concerned about urban air quality, this shift has become more than just an environmental issue. It is increasingly tied to daily health and quality of life.

 

Reducing urban noise pollution

Traffic noise is another growing concern in major Indian cities. Constant exposure to engine noise, honking and congested roads has been linked to stress, sleep disorders and cardiovascular risks.

 

Electric vehicles operate with significantly less powertrain noise at low speeds compared with gasoline or diesel vehicles. One experiment found that EVs can produce 4-5 dB lower noise levels in urban driving conditions, especially below 30 km/h.

 

The difference becomes especially noticeable in dense residential areas, school zones and urban streets where stop-and-go traffic dominates.

 

Lower running and maintenance costs

For many Indian households, economics remain one of the biggest drivers behind EV adoption.

 

Charging an electric vehicle in India typically costs far less than refueling with petrol or diesel. EVs also eliminate several routine maintenance items associated with ICE vehicles, including engine oil, spark plugs and exhaust system servicing. For VinFast customers in India, the savings can become even more significant thanks to the company’s free charging programme at V-GREEN charging stations until March 31, 2029.

 

This long-term durability advantage is increasingly supported by research. A study presented at the ICMPT 2026 international conference by researchers from Hanoi University of Science and Technology found that EVs tend to show lower long-term mechanical wear than ICE vehicles thanks to their simpler drivetrain architecture. The research analyzed theoretical reliability models alongside maintenance data from nearly 5,700 vehicles.

 

The same study referenced analysis of more than 300 million vehicle inspection records in the UK, showing that newer generation EVs could achieve an average lifespan of up to 18.4 years.

 

Encouraging healthier travel habits

EV ownership can also subtly encourage healthier routines. Fast charging stops often create short breaks during longer journeys, giving drivers opportunities to stretch, walk around and reduce fatigue associated with prolonged sitting.

 

Rahul, a VinFast VF 6 owner in Bengaluru, said: “Earlier, I would drive for hours without stopping during family trips. Now, while charging, we naturally take short breaks for coffee or a quick walk. Surprisingly, everyone feels less tired by the end of the journey.

 

Supporting greener communities

The growth of EV adoption is also influencing how cities and infrastructure evolve. Across India, governments and private players are accelerating investments in charging infrastructure, renewable energy integration and cleaner public transport systems.

 

VinFast is among the companies contributing to this shift. In India, the company is building a broader EV ecosystem that includes manufacturing, dealerships, charging partnerships, after-sales services and financing solutions. The company’s Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu is positioned as a key production hub for the region.

 

The company currently offers the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs in India. Both models have earned strong safety credentials, including 5-star Bharat NCAP ratings, while also boasting multiple advanced features. They have already gained strong recognition in the Indian market, including the “EV SUV of the Year – Editor’s Choice” award for the VF 7 at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026, and “Value for Money Car of the Year” for the VF 6 at the Autocar India Awards 2026.

 

The momentum is now extending into the MPV segment with the recently introduced VF MPV 7. Designed specifically around family comfort and long-distance practicality, the premium electric MPV offers a spacious three-row cabin, a 517 km MIDC-certified range, fast charging capability and connected smart features.

 

VinFast is also supporting EV adoption in India through a wide range of ownership incentives. The company currently offers free charging at V-GREEN charging stations until March 31, 2029, along with 3 years of free maintenance, a 10-year battery warranty, a 7-year vehicle warranty, a 5-year suspension warranty, a 7-year paint warranty, and 7 years of roadside assistance, creating what the company describes as a best-in-segment assurance package for customers. VinFast is also offering up to 75% assured buyback value for its electric MPV.

 

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

 

The company’s Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

 

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

POGO Launches "Sampat Champat", A Brand-new 3D Animated Adaptation of the Iconic Lotpot Comic Duo

Kids’ entertainment is set to get a delightful new addition as POGO announces the launch of its brand-new 3D animated series Sampat Champat, which premiered on 18th May 2026. Inspired by the beloved characters from the legendary Lotpot Comics universe, the show marks an exciting new chapter for one of India’s most cherished comic legacies.
 

Sampat Champat on POGO
 

Sampat Champat, known for their humorous antics and timeless appeal, have entertained readers for over four decades. Now, for the first time ever, the iconic duo will leap from the pages of comics onto television screens in a vibrant, visually rich animated format, promising laughter, adventure, and nostalgia for audiences of all ages.

 

Speaking about this milestone, Aman Bajaj, Publisher of Lotpot Comics & Producer of the show shared, “Very excited for this show. Sampat Champat have been a part of our comics for more than 40 years, and now, coming live as animation on TV gives me immense thrill. I truly hope the audience feels the same excitement. Sampat Champat comes from the world of Lotpot, which has given superhit kids’ IPs like Motu Patlu, Sheikh Chilli & Friends, and many more. I am confident that from now on, broadcasters will be more willing to take Indian homegrown IPs. We hope the audience showers the same love on Sampat Champat.”

 

Adding to the excitement, Shivank Arora, CMO of Lotpot Comics & Producer of the show said, “It’s my first project as a producer of a kids’ show on television, and I am exhilarated beyond words. For the past few years, we have worked tirelessly every day to make this a reality. I sincerely hope and pray that this show breaks all records and resonates deeply with viewers.”

 

Dr. Harvinder Mankkar, Comic Writer & Illustrator said, “I have created Sampat Champat 40 years ago for Lotpot Comics and it is a proud moment for me and everyone involved that Sampat Champat is now entering the animation space on a well-known broadcasting channel. I have seen the animation series and can vouch that this is much nicer than we expected. Hope it resonates with the audience as well.”

 

The launch of Sampat Champat reflects POGO’s continued commitment to bringing engaging, homegrown content to young audiences, while celebrating India’s rich storytelling heritage. The collaboration also marks another proud moment for Lotpot Comics as it expands its legacy into the animation space.

 

With its blend of humor, heart, and high-quality animation, Sampat Champat is poised to become a new favorite among kids and families alike. The team behind the show extends heartfelt gratitude to all partners, creators, and fans who have supported this journey.

 

Congratulations to the entire team of Lotpot Comics and POGO on this exciting launch. Here’s wishing Sampat Champat tremendous success, record-breaking viewership, and a lasting place in the hearts of audiences across the country.

 

Tune in to POGO from 18th May 2026 onwards at 10.30 AM to catch the premiere of Sampat Champat!

82% of Indian Hypertensives trace their BP to Stress, Not Diet, Finds New Study

A new Kapiva study, based on a survey conducted by Kantar has revealed that stress and sleep disruption are emerging as major concerns among Indians living with hypertension. Despite being one of India’s most prevalent chronic conditions, the study suggests that for most patients, it remains persistently out of control and shows a clear picture of how urban Indians are living with hypertension in 2026, and what is truly driving it.

 

Infographic – Top 5 perceived caused for high BP

 

The findings challenge conventional assumptions. When patients cross Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities were asked what caused their high blood pressure, 82% cited stress as the primary perceived cause, ranking above diet, genetics, and age combined. While nearly 6 in 10 say poor sleep can trigger BP fluctuations. Among younger patients (25–44-year-olds), 43% described their workplace stress as very high. Poor sleep and acute stress were tied as the leading triggers for BP going out of control, each cited by 59% of respondents. Seven in ten patients who experience BP fluctuations do so every single week.

 

The physical toll is equally significant. 43% report frequent headaches, 29% experience anxiety and restlessness, and 18% suffer heart palpitations that nearly half describe as unbearable. For most patients, hypertension is not a condition managed with a twice-yearly doctor visit. It is the background noise of daily life.

 

Commenting on this, Ameve Sharma, Founder and CEO of Kapiva, said ,“This study reaffirms that India’s BP crisis is as much a stress and lifestyle crisis as it is a cardiovascular one. As these numbers show, preventive health solutions and sustained lifestyle changes are becoming as important as clinical intervention. At Kapiva, we have always followed a consumer-out approach, understanding what people are going through and then building solutions around those needs. Our offerings are a direct outcome of that thinking, a formulation built not just around a diagnosis but around how people are actually living with health conditions every day.”

 

The study also reveals a parallel care system operating quietly alongside prescription medication. 35% of BP patients are already using natural or home remedies in addition to their prescribed treatment, reaching for lemon water (71%), amla (57%), garlic (53%), and Arjun Chaal (39%). The instinct is right, but the execution faces real limits: 34% cite inconsistency and inconvenience as barriers, and 25% admit they cannot maintain the habit daily.

 

Critically, 60% of BP patients say they are open to trying an Ayurvedic juice for blood pressure management, a figure that rises to 73% among younger patients (25–44-year-olds).

 

Dr. R. Govindarajan, Chief Innovation Officer, Kapiva, added, “Hypertension today is no longer just a lifestyle condition associated with age. What we are increasingly witnessing is the impact of chronic stress, poor sleep, mental fatigue, and always-on lifestyles on cardiovascular wellness, especially among younger Indians. The study findings also emphasize the need for a more holistic approach to blood pressure management, where stress management, nutrition, sleep quality, and long-term consistency become equally important alongside medical supervision. At Kapiva, our focus has been on combining traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with standardized, research-led formulations that can support modern wellness needs in a more accessible and consistent manner.”

 

The study was conducted in February 2026 across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and Ahmedabad, covering equal representation of males and females with a sample size of 303 across age groups from 25 to 65 and above.

 

About Kapiva

Kapiva is a modern, homegrown Ayurvedic D2C brand on a mission to make evidence-based Ayurveda simple, modern, and accessible for everyday wellness. Backed by a dedicated R&D vertical of scientists and researchers, Kapiva develops authentic formulations using science-backed Ayurveda, standardised herbs, and high-quality ingredients. Kapiva has been a disruptor in the Ayurvedic industry by introducing innovation in product formats that can be easily integrated into people’s daily routines. Kapiva has expanded globally with its wholly owned subsidiaries in the USA and Middle East and has a strong offline presence across 50,000+ stores in India.

ARISE Invites Applications for FICCI Supported ARISE Excellence Awards 2026 to Showcase Innovation and Impact in School Education

The Association for Reinventing School Education (ARISE), in collaboration with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), has launched the 4th Edition of ARISE Excellence Awards 2026 — a national platform celebrating schools that are reimagining education through innovation, inclusion, institutional leadership, and excellence.
 

Applications are now open for the 4th Edition of ARISE Excellence Awards 2026, recognising excellence, innovation and impact in school education across India
 

Guided by ARISE’s motto of Student First, the Awards recognise schools that are going beyond conventional academic outcomes to build resilient learning ecosystems, nurture future-ready learners, strengthen teacher capacity and drive meaningful change within their communities. Over the past three editions, the ARISE Excellence Awards have steadily evolved into a highly regarded benchmark within the K-12 ecosystem, bringing forward inspiring stories of impact and transformation from schools across India.
 

The Awards have witnessed growing participation from both private and government schools, reflecting the silent yet significant shift taking place across India’s school education landscape. From rural and low-resource settings to progressive urban institutions, schools across diverse contexts are increasingly emerging as catalysts of innovation, equity and change, aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
 

Instituted as part of ARISE’s Impact Initiatives, the Awards seek to spotlight institutions building future-focused ecosystems through meaningful interventions in areas such as future-ready skills and experiential learning; teacher development; digital transformation and compliance; sports, visual and performing arts; sustainable development goals (SDGs); global impact leadership; and reviving Indian knowledge systems.
 

A defining strength of the ARISE Excellence Awards continues to be its rigorous and transparent evaluation framework. As in previous editions, the Awards will follow a robust two-tier jury process involving eminent experts from academia, governance, public policy and industry, ensuring a holistic assessment lens that combines educational depth with institutional impact. The process will once again be independently tabulated by Ernst & Young (EY), reinforcing the credibility, integrity, and transparency associated with the Awards.
 

The Awards aim not only to recognise excellence, but also to document and amplify scalable practices that can meaningfully contribute to the future of school education in India.
 

Speaking on the launch of the Awards, Ms Jyoti Vij, Director General, FICCI, said, “The ARISE Excellence Awards have steadily established themselves as a credible platform for recognising excellence and innovation in school education. The strength of the initiative lies in its rigorous evaluation process, diverse jury representation, and focus on identifying scalable models that can inspire the broader education ecosystem. FICCI is pleased to continue supporting an initiative that brings together schools, educators, and institutions committed to strengthening the future of education in India.”
 

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Dr Arunabh Singh, President, ARISE, said, “Schools today are navigating a rapidly evolving educational landscape shaped by technology, changing learner expectations, future skills, and the need for more inclusive and holistic learning environments. Through the ARISE Excellence Awards, we aim to recognise schools that are responding to these shifts with innovation, intent, and measurable impact. It is especially encouraging to see growing participation from government schools, many of which are leading transformative work in their communities as the Awards are ultimately about celebrating practices that place students meaningfully at the centre of educational change.”
 

The Awards will culminate with the announcement of winners at ARISE Annual School Education Conference on September 25–26, 2026, bringing together school leaders, policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders from across the country.
 

Applications for the ARISE Excellence Awards 2026 are now open at: awards.ariseedu.in.
 

The last date for submission of applications is 30 June 2026.

 

About FICCI
Established in 1927, FICCI is the largest and oldest Apex business organisation in India. Its history is closely interwoven with India’s struggle for independence, its industrialization, and its emergence as one of the most rapidly growing global economies. A non-government, not-for-profit organisation, FICCI is the voice of India’s business and industry. It serves its members from the Indian private and public corporate sectors and multinational companies, drawing its strength from diverse regional chambers of commerce and industry across states, reaching out to over 2,50,000 companies.

 

About ARISE
Founded and Incubated in Year 2016 under FICCI, ARISE is a not-for-profit, independent industry Chamber body focused on advancing K-12 education in India through research backed strategic interventions in policy & regulatory framework. The body also serves as a platform for school founders and educators to share best practices, record learnings, build sustainable knowledge ecosystems and come together to drive a common purpose for Nation building through school education.

Superdry Sport Takes the Court at Sip & Serve — A Padel Evening with Brand Ambassador Lakshya

Superdry Sport brought the heat to Phoenix Racquet Club, Palladium, Lower Parel on 9th May for Sip & Serve — a curated padel evening that was equal parts sport, style and social energy. The evening pulled in Mumbai’s fitness, fashion and creator community for a brand experience that was anything but ordinary.

 

Superdry Sport Takes the Court at Sip & Serve-A Padel Evening with Brand Ambassador Lakshya


At the centre of it all was actor and Superdry Sport brand ambassador Lakshya — on court, in the mix, and very much in his element. He rallied with guests, owned the energy on the padel court, and made the whole evening feel effortlessly cool. With beats setting the mood and bites keeping the crowd fuelled, Sip & Serve was designed to be experienced, not just attended — a living showcase of what Superdry Sport is all about.


Guests also got a first look at Superdry Sport’s new padel-ready collection — a drop that doesn’t ask you to choose between performance and personality. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Lightweight construction. Movement-friendly fits engineered for agility, comfort and endurance when the game demands everything you’ve got. Built tough, built to last — and designed to transition seamlessly from court to street without missing a beat.


This drop lives inside Superdry Sport’s broader performance universe — a world engineered for intensity. Moisture-control technology, high-durability materials, and construction built to keep pace with high-output play, no compromises. Layered on top is the brand’s signature street energy: a sharp, athletic aesthetic that moves effortlessly between the court and the city. 

 

Sip & Serve was more than an event — it was a statement. Superdry Sport is showing up at the intersection of performance, style and culture, building community that goes beyond the brand.

 

About Superdry

Superdry is a global contemporary fashion brand celebrated for its distinctive fusion of British craftsmanship, Japanese-inspired graphic energy, and American varsity heritage. Loved by Gen Z and young millennials, the brand is recognised for its iconic streetwear, premium fabrications, and elevated style codes that blend cultural relevance with modern design.


In India, Reliance Brands Limited (RBL) operates the country’s largest Superdry network and holds a 76% stake in the brand’s IP for India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Since introducing Superdry to India in 2012, RBL has expanded the brand to over 200 points of sale across more than 50 cities, with its e-commerce footprint extending reach to over 2,300 cities nationwide.

FAY Investment Group Introduces Villa Roma EB-5 to Indian Investors

FAY Investment Group, a global investment platform focused on the acquisition, management and development of real estate and hospitality assets, has announced the launch of Villa Roma EB-5, a US EB-5 investment opportunity centred on the redevelopment of the historic Villa Roma Resort in Upstate New York. Positioned within a Rural Targeted Employment Area (TEA), the project is being introduced to global investors, including India’s growing pool of outbound investors seeking residency-linked international investment opportunities.

 

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/35605_Villa_Roma_View_image.jpg

FAY Investment Group introduces Villa Roma EB-5 to Indian investors


Located across a 434-acre campus in the Catskills region, the project combines a reduced 800,000-dollar investment threshold, priority processing eligibility, and a defined hospitality redevelopment strategy within the EB-5 framework.


The redevelopment plan includes a 52.1-million-dollar Property Improvement Programme to be executed over approximately 25 months while maintaining ongoing resort operations. The project aims to reposition the legacy asset into a modern, all-season hospitality destination catering to leisure travellers, events, and group tourism demand.


The redevelopment scope includes the renovation of 139 hotel rooms and 232 managed serviced apartments, alongside the construction of a new conference centre. Expanded food and beverage offerings, upgraded recreational infrastructure, and dedicated employee housing are also planned as part of the broader transformation strategy.


The property benefits from established tourism demand and its proximity to New York City, creating a diversified operating model intended to support year-round occupancy and long-term operational resilience.


From an EB-5 perspective, the project has been structured with a focus on job creation visibility and compliance alignment. Independent economic analysis projects approximately 777 jobs linked to the development, exceeding the estimated 640 jobs required for the planned 51.2-million-dollar EB-5 raise, translating to approximately 12.14 jobs per investor.


The investment structure is based on a preferred equity model, with capital deployed through a New Commercial Enterprise into the project entity. The targeted investment horizon is five years, with a potential one-year extension and multiple potential exit pathways including refinancing, asset sale, or operational cash flow, subject to market conditions.


The company stated that demand from Indian investors for globally diversified, residency-linked investment opportunities continues to grow, particularly in structured real asset categories with operational visibility and defined compliance frameworks. According to the company, Villa Roma EB-5 has been designed to align hospitality asset redevelopment with the structural advantages of a Rural TEA EB-5 project, including lower investment thresholds, projected job creation visibility, priority processing eligibility, and a clearly defined investment framework.


The Rural TEA designation also enables access to current priority processing provisions under the EB-5 programme, an aspect increasingly relevant for Indian investors evaluating global residency-by-investment pathways.


The resort itself brings more than five decades of operating history, supported by a diversified mix of accommodations, food and beverage operations, events, and recreational amenities that contribute to year-round demand.


The project is backed by institutional partners across construction, design, advisory, and fund administration functions to support execution oversight and operational transparency.


Villa Roma EB-5 reflects FAY Investment Group’s broader strategy of identifying underutilised hospitality assets with strong fundamentals and unlocking value through structured capital deployment and active asset management.


For detailed information about the Villa Roma EB-5 project, investment requirements, and program guidelines, visit www.fayeb5invest.com.

Singapore's Gardens by the Bay Unveils Two New Disney-Themed Experiences For Families

This June, Singapore’s iconic horticultural attraction Gardens by the Bay invites families to step into two delightful Disney-themed experiences. Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, Disney Garden of Wonder returns to Floral Fantasy with new topiary displays, while the flagship Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh takes over Supertree Grove with outdoor installations and play areas. Gardens by the Bay was also named the third top attraction in the world in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best 2026.
 

Gardens by the Bay’s Children Festival featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh


Disney Garden of Wonder
Following its successful debut in 2024, Disney Garden of Wonder is back at Floral Fantasy with new topiary displays and dioramas of beloved Disney and Pixar characters. For the first time, the 2026 edition of Disney Garden of Wonder will introduce displays of Disney Princess heroines Rapunzel, Belle and Jasmine. In another first, topiary versions of Frozen’s Anna and Elsa will also preside over an enchanting snowy landscape, brought to life through floral artistry and themed lighting that imagines a frost-kissed world of wonder.

 

Gardens by the Bay’s Garden of Wonder at Floral Fantasy

 

Visitors can look forward to 23 topiary characters across six themed zones, including fan favourites such as: Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey; Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear from Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5; as well as Hundred Acre Wood pals like Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet and Tigger. Rounding out the journey is a uniquely Singaporean finale, where visitors can snap playful photos with displays of Disney characters reimagined in local settings, alongside famed hawker fare such as laksa and teh tarik.

With its blend of floral artistry, familiar characters and magical storytelling, Disney Garden of Wonder offers families a visually rich journey that appeals across generations during the upcoming school holidays.

Disney Garden of Wonder will run from 8 June 2026 to 14 March 2027.

Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh
The free Children’s Festival is back at Gardens by the Bay’s Supertree Grove this June holidays, celebrating 100 years of Winnie the Pooh and the beloved bear’s enduring message to be kind, stay curious, and keep a little honey in your heart.

Highlights include:

  • The Hundred Acre Glide, inspired by the Hundred Acre Wood – the first zipline in Singapore themed after Disney’s Winnie the Pooh. Featuring a treehouse-style installation, children can glide 16 metres across the festival grounds against the backdrop of the Supertrees.

  • The Sweetest Drops, inspired by Winnie the Pooh –this honeycomb-themed ball pit is inspired by Pooh’s search for his favourite snack, honey, which often turns into an adventure.

  • The Brave Logs, inspired by Piglet – balance across planks and “tree stumps” in this quick-footed adventure that encourages children to summon their courage and take things one step at a time.

  • The Enchanted Meadows, inspired by Eeyore – slow down and enjoy gentle see-saws in this play area themed after a breezy field of flowers.

  • The Joyful Puddles, inspired by Tigger – drawing from Tigger’s energetic personality, these “puddle” trampolines are perfect for a day of bouncing fun in the sun.


Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party inflatable march
For the first time in Southeast Asia, Gardens by the Bay will be presenting a march into Supertree Grove with super-sized inflatables up to seven metres in height. Titled “Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party”, visitors of all ages may join in this lively song and dance twice on Saturdays, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for the entire family.

There is even more to explore, from a special Disney-themed retail pop-up to carnival games.

Gardens by the Bay’s Children’s Festival runs from May 30 to June 21 and admission is free.

For more information on Garden of Wonder and Children’s Festival, please visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg.

 

Disney Garden of Wonder
Date: Monday, 8 June 2026 to Sunday, 14 March 2027
Time: 10.00am to 9.00pm
Venue: Floral Fantasy, Gardens by the Bay
Details: Tickets are priced at SGD$24 for adults and SGD$16 for children. Tickets are available at ticket.gardensbythebay.com.sg.

 

Children’s Festival 2026 featuring Disney’s Winnie the Pooh
Date: Saturday 30 May to Sunday, 21 June 2026
Time: 10.00am to 9.00pm
Venue: Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay
Details: Admission is free

 

Pooh’s Grand Friendship Party inflatable march

Date

Time

30 May 2026

3.30PM

6 June 2026
13 June 2026
20 June 2026

3.30PM and 5.30PM


Venue: Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay
 

Getting here: Take the MRT to Bayfront station or Gardens by the Bay station. Alternatively, drop off at the Main Arrival or Bayfront Plaza carpark via taxi or ride-hailing service. More information available here.

 

About Gardens by the Bay

An integral part of Singapore’s “City in Nature” vision, Gardens by the Bay is a national garden and premier horticultural attraction that showcases the best of garden and floral artistry for all to enjoy. Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore’s downtown Marina Bay, it comprises three waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. Bay South, the largest at 54 hectares, officially opened on 29 June 2012.

Guided by the vision to be a world of gardens for all to own, enjoy and cherish, the Gardens’ extensive plant collection, ever-changing floral displays, and myriad of engaging programmes have captured the imagination of many, while its Gift of Gardens community initiative, with Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore as Patron, reaches out to people from all walks of life.

Since opening, Gardens by the Bay has welcomed more than 115 million visitors and garnered numerous international accolades including the third Top Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026, Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2024, Best Theme Attraction at TTG Travel Awards 2022 and 2023, and Best Attraction Experience at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2019. The Gardens continues to refresh and refine its offerings, to be a place that everyone can enjoy – a garden where wonder blooms.

For more information, visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg.

Chitkara University Hosts ICAN 2026 with Strong International Participation and Focus on AI-Led Research and Innovation

Chitkara University successfully hosted the 6th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence-driven Computing, Analytics and Networks (ICAN 2026) on May 15 and 16, 2026, bringing together researchers, academicians, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world to examine the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on the future of technology, research, and industry.
 

Chitkara University hosts CAN 2026, Conference on Artificial Intelligence to shape the future of technology, research, and industry
 

Launched in 2017, ICAN has steadily evolved into one of Chitkara University’s flagship engineering conferences, recognised for its international participation, academic collaborations, and reputed publication partnerships. ICAN 2026 marked a significant milestone in the conference series with Artificial Intelligence emerging as the central focus across discussions on AI-driven computing systems, intelligent analytics, and advanced networked infrastructures.
 

The conference received 858 research paper submissions across three tracks from 16 countries including India, USA, Japan, Finland, Singapore, Malaysia, Egypt, Indonesia, and several others. Following a rigorous peer-review process, 220 papers were shortlisted for presentation across 36 technical sessions. More than 300 delegates from leading academic institutions, research organisations, and industry bodies participated in the conference from India and overseas.
 

Further strengthening the conference’s international academic standing, Springer Nature served as the publication partner for ICAN 2026. Authors of presented papers will also have the opportunity to submit extended versions of their research work to Springer Nature journals.
 

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Sudatta Kar, VP and Head of Engineering, Capgemini Engineering, India, spoke on “Building AI Native Systems for a World in Constant Change,” highlighting the increasing need for adaptive and intelligent technological ecosystems in a rapidly changing world.
 

Another keynote session was delivered by Dr. Sudarsun Santhiappan, who addressed the audience on “How Should Students Become Ready for Facing AI as an Assistant, as a Partner, and as a Competitor?” His session focused on how students and future professionals can prepare themselves to work alongside rapidly evolving AI technologies.
 

The conference also featured sessions by distinguished experts including Dr. Pao-Ann Hsiung and Mr. Kundan Das, who shared insights on emerging developments in Artificial Intelligence, computing, and advanced technologies.
 

In her message for ICAN 2026, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, reiterated the University’s commitment to advancing AI-focused education, interdisciplinary research, innovation-led learning, and meaningful industry collaboration. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Madhu Chitkara said, “Artificial Intelligence is no longer a technology of the future; it is shaping the present across every domain of human progress. Through platforms like ICAN 2026, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for researchers, educators, industry leaders, and students to collaborate, innovate, and contribute towards building intelligent, sustainable, and future-ready technological ecosystems.”
 

ICAN 2026 further reinforced Chitkara University’s growing role in advancing research, innovation, and international academic collaboration in Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies.
 

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC A+ accredited private university with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, recognised among India’s leading institutions by NIRF, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality, and emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Machine Learning.
 

The University’s academic model integrates internships, live industry projects, and research into core curricula, supported by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry partners. Global Pathway programs, developed in partnership with leading universities in the United States, Australia and Canada, allow students to complete part of their degree abroad. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied learning, Chitkara University, prepares graduates for careers in India and internationally.
 

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

Atul Launches Three Innovative Crop Protection Products for Indian Farmers

Atul Ltd (Atul) introduces three proprietary crop protection products – Mylonis, Salix Gold and Tikadis – to enhance crop productivity and advance sustainable farming practices in India. The newly launched product portfolio comprises a seed treatment solution for oilseeds and soybean, an advanced fungicide formulation for rice and a premium technical-grade herbicide for rice cultivation. These innovations address critical gaps in disease management, pest control and weed management for major crops – factors that directly influence agricultural yields and farmer profitability. 

 

Atul unveils three novel products developed in-house

 

 

Mylonis: comprehensive disease management for rice
Mylonis, a patented fungicide combining Azoxystrobin, Isoprothiolane and Mancozeb, is to tackle the most challenging diseases in rice – sheath blight, blast (including multiple strains), and grain discoloration. Beyond disease suppression, Mylonis strengthens plant health, enhances grain quality and supports resistance management strategies, making it an invaluable choice for rice farmers throughout India.


Salix Gold: precision weed control for rice cultivation
Salix Gold reflects the advanced manufacturing capability of Atul in high-purity technical grade production. This 2,4-D sodium salt–based water-dispersible granules formulation provides post-emergence weed control, effectively targeting broadleaf weeds and sedges in rice production systems across India. While currently focused on domestic markets, the Company is actively exploring commercial opportunities in select international regions.


Tikadis: early-stage protection for legume and oilseed crops
Tikadis, a patented seed treatment formulation, combines Azoxystrobin, Carbendazim and Thiamethoxam to deliver day-one defence against soil-borne pests and pathogens in groundnut and soybean. Field trials demonstrate that Tikadis promotes robust seed germination, strengthens root nodule development for improved plant vigour and ensures uniform pod development.


About the Company
Founded in 1947 by a legendary Kasturbhai Lalbhai, Atul Ltd (Atul) is an integrated chemical company in India with an annual revenue of Rs. 
7,000 cr plus. The Company manufactures 900 products and 400 formulations. The production facilities of Atul and its associate, joint venture and subsidiary entities are located at Ambernath, Ankleshwar, Jodhpur, Panoli, Tarapur and Valsad in India and Somerset in the UK. It has established subsidiary companies in Brazil, China, Germany, Ireland, UAE, UK and USA to work closely with its customers and enhance the breadth and depth of its businesses. While the businesses of Atul since inception have been based on B2B model, the Company has two start-ups (now 15 plus years old) based on B2C model and is endeavouring to grow their presence in India and international markets. 

The Crop Protection-Retail business of Atul has a presence across the country and provides crop care solutions for major crops, such as corn, cotton, paddy, soybean, sugarcane, wheat and a range of fruits and vegetables. Its product portfolio comprises 59 brands and 71 formulations, including the best-selling brands such as Zura, Sindica, Salix, Rymix, Rhyzo, Loxo, Cyno and Amsac.