Dubai’s leading real estate group Danube has announced there will be no layoffs and that salaries will be paid on time, pledging support for its entire workforce during these challenging times.

Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group

Founder and Chairman Rizwan Sajan is demonstrating strong leadership by standing firmly with the company’s employees.

With the US–Israel–Iran conflict reshaping geopolitical and economic realities, businesses across the region are being tested on their ability to adapt and endure. Against this backdrop, Danube’s commitment provides stability and reassurance to its staff and stakeholders. 

Recently, Sajan took to Instagram to announce that the company will not lay off any employees. “I’ve faced many challenging situations in the past – from the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait to the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these, we have always bounced back stronger, and I’m confident we will do so again. During the pandemic, I had committed to not letting go of any employees, and I stood by that promise. Similarly, there will be no layoffs at Danube Group this time as well,” he said.

He further added, “Our 6000+ employees are not just our workforce – they are our family. They helped build Danube Group into what it is today. In times like these, we stand by them with the same commitment. All salaries will be paid on time, and we remain dedicated to serving our clients and customers.”

Over the years, Danube Group has developed a diversified and agile structure spanning building materials, real estate, and home solutions, allowing it to respond effectively to changing market conditions.

In fact, Danube Properties recently unveiled its first large-scale integrated community, Greenz by Danube, featuring premium townhouses and villas, starting from AED 3.5 million with their iconic 1% monthly payment plan, which has been well received by investors and homeowners alike. 

The company continues to prioritize execution, ensuring timely project delivery and honoring commitments. As it navigates current geopolitical challenges, Danube Group is not only holding its ground but reinforcing its position – demonstrating that strong fundamentals and decisive leadership can turn uncertainty into sustained progress.

About Danube Properties
Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is among the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. Known for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company delivers fully furnished apartments complemented by over 40 lifestyle amenities, with a strong track record of quality construction and timely delivery.

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, continues to advance its commitment to grassroots sports development in India through its flagship CSR initiative, Signify Khel Jyoti, as we approach the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The initiative underscores the role of sports as a catalyst for social change, driving inclusion, and community empowerment.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

As part of its commitment to supporting sports development in India, Signify has successfully illuminated four Kabaddi and Kho-Kho centers in rural Haryana, with industry leading energy-efficient LED sports lighting. This intervention is aimed at strengthening the sports ecosystems, enabling inclusive participation, and creating safer, more accessible spaces for athletes to train and compete after sunset.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Well-illuminated sports grounds significantly extend usable hours, allowing athletes to practice beyond sunset and during early mornings. Enhanced lighting improves visibility, safety, and performance conditions, while encouraging greater participation from youth, women, and local communities. By creating safer and more inclusive spaces for sports, Signify continues to champion accessibility, talent development, and community well-being through the power of light.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Speaking on the initiative, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Signify, Greater India said, “Sport has the power to bring communities together and create opportunities for young talent, especially in underserved regions. At Signify, we believe in bringing the best of innovations across India, through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are enabling access to safe and inclusive sporting spaces by improving infrastructure at the grassroots level. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to driving long-term social impact through innovation and sustainability for brighter lives and a better world.”

Divyanshu Singh, CEO, JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers added, “Through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are seeing how an intervention like lighting can unlock significant potential at the grassroots level. In a state like Haryana, where Kabaddi is part of everyday life, extending training hours and improving safety can directly influence participation and performance. At JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that create real, measurable impact and strengthen the future of Indian sport from the ground up.”

The initiative has created meaningful impacts at the community level. With the availability of light extending, playing hours have led to increased participation across age groups, with a notable rise in girls’ participation and overall enrollment. These centers have historically produced athletes who have gone on to represent India and compete at the highest levels, including the Pro Kabaddi League, underlining the importance of strengthening grassroots infrastructure in regions like Haryana.

The centers were identified through a structured selection process with input from JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers team focusing on active training ecosystems, presence of coaching support, and potential for long-term impact. The project was executed by Pro Sport Development, ensuring effective on-ground execution and alignment with local community needs.

Signify Khel Jyoti CSR initiative has illuminated over 200 grassroots sports centers across India, reinforcing its commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystem.

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.

In line with its commitment to academic excellence, industry engagement and professional development, Chandigarh University (CU)  inaugurated the Student Chapter of Institution of Engineers India (IEI), the largest multidisciplinary professional society of engineers established in 1920, to nurture innovation, research and professional excellence among engineering students by enhancing their technical knowledge and connect them with industry experts through workshops, seminars, conferences, and hands-on training programmes.

This IEI Student initiative is aimed to nurture innovation, research and professional excellence among engineering students at Chandigarh University

The dignitaries from academia and industry who graced the inauguration ceremony of the IEI Student Chapter, organized by Department of Computer Science & Engineering, University Institute of Engineering (UIE) Chandigarh University, included Chief Guest Dr Labh Singh, former Chairman IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre, Guests of Honour, Karnail Singh, Secretary IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre, Dr Arvind Dhingra , former Chairman and Ex Council Member IEI Ludhiana, Centre, Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam,  Vice -Chancellor – Chandigarh University,  Prof (Dr) Raghuveer VR , Pro-VC (Academics) CU and Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to Chancellor, CU.

In his inaugural address, the chief guest and former Chairman of IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Center, Dr Labh Singh said, “Today, engineering is not just about machines, it is about shaping society, solving real-world problems and creating a sustainable future. India is at a crucial juncture of digital transformation, artificial intelligence and industry 4.0 revolution. And young engineers are at the centre of this change. IEI was established in 1920 to further this passion and enthusiasm of the youth. It is one of the largest engineering institutes in the world, covering 15 different engineering branches. This IEI Student chapter will act as a bridge between books and practical work for students. Through this, students will also get grants and funds for technical development, certification and research. This initiative is not just about academic excellence, but it is about ‘equitable development’. IEI supports equal opportunities for everyone, skill development and especially greater participation of women in engineering. Our objective is fully aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Skill India.”

Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam, Vice -Chancellor, Chandigarh University said, “India currently hosts over 1,700 IEI Student Chapters and Chandigarh University is delighted to have one IEI Student Chapter. For the past three consecutive years, Chandigarh University has maintained its position as India’s number one private university—a fact affirmed by QS World University Rankings.  In 2025, five of our academic disciplines were featured in the QS subject-wise rankings. However, today, 11 of our disciplines have secured a place in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.  Three of CU’s engineering subjects including Computer Science and Information System have been recognized among the top 300 universities globally. Six of CU subjects are ranked within the top 400 in the world. This achievement has made Chandigarh University rank among world’s top 1 % universities. This IEI Student Chapter will provide enhanced opportunities for CU students by facilitating networking and access to grants. It will offer students a golden opportunity to hone their talents.”

Karnail Singh, Secretary IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre said, “Becoming a part of IEI will enable Chandigarh University students to acquire a wealth of new knowledge for resolving real-world problems and serve society. Through this Student Chapter, students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops and seminars, as well as to interact with experienced professionals from the industry.”

Chandigarh University Vice Chancellor (Academic) Raghuveer VR said, “India is desperately looking out for its engineers to do something in a bigger way. That is why we want students to be a part of these chapters and build their professional career. IEI Student Chapter is one of multiple professional chapters at Chandigarh University and students should take benefit of each of those chapters to build their profile and become successful in life.”

Dr Arvind Dhingra, former Chairman and Ex Council Member IEI Ludhiana said, “Besides 124 IEI centers across the country, Chandigarh University students who will also get connected to over 3 lakh professionals through this IEI Student Chapter. CU Students will also get international exposure and professional engineering certificate through the IEI which allows practice in countries across the globe.”

Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to Chancellor of CU said, “The IEI Student Chapter will provide Chandigarh University students with the opportunity to participate in various technical activities conducted by the Students’ Chapter, access library facilities at IEI Centres across the country and meet Fellow Members of IEI for professional interaction. This apart, CU students can also get 85 Scholarships amounting Rs 7.15 lakh given to the Engineering meritorious students attached to different IEI Student Chapters.”

About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: www.cuchd.in.

M3M Foundation has taken a significant step towards strengthening rural livelihoods under its flagship initiative “Payal@40” by launching a focused programme to support and empower rural women and youth in Bangana Block, District Una, Himachal Pradesh. 

M3M Foundation Signs MoU with Govind Sagar Block-Level Foundation to Empower Rural Women and Youth in Una, Himachal Pradesh

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 2 April 2026 at the Block Office, Bangana, between M3M Foundation and the Govind Sagar Block Level Federation (BLF) for the operation of the Rural Livelihood Centre (RLC), Bangana, under the Himachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission (HPSRLM). The partnership aims to deliver structured training, capacity building, and livelihood support to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), along with skill development opportunities for local rural youth. 

Through this collaboration, more than 800 beneficiaries per year are expected to benefit from SHG-based training programmes, livelihood enhancement activities, and skill development initiatives designed to improve income generation and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region. 

The MoU was signed by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee & President, M3M Foundation, and Ms. Rajni Devi, President, Govind Sagar Block Level Federation (BLF), Bangana, who also oversees RLC Bangana. 

Sharing her message, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, stated, “Payal@40 is not just an initiative, but a commitment towards dignity, self-reliance, and sustainable livelihoods for rural women. Announced in Banaras (Varanasi), this initiative aims to empower 40,000 women across the country. By working closely with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and rural youth in regions like Bangana, we are dedicated to driving meaningful change at the grassroots level. This partnership will not only create livelihood opportunities but will also lay a strong foundation for the social and economic empowerment of rural families.” 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan reiterated M3M Foundation’s commitment to empowering rural communities through focused interventions in women’s empowerment and youth development. He emphasized that this partnership for operating RLC Bangana under “Payal@40” will create long-term social and economic impact by strengthening grassroots institutions and promoting skill-based livelihood opportunities. He also expressed gratitude to the Himachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission, and all officials and representatives for providing this opportunity. 

Block Development Officer (BDO) Shri Kishori Lal Verma and Ms. Rajni Devi expressed their appreciation to M3M Foundation and stated that this collaboration will significantly enhance the capacity of SHGs and rural youth, enabling them to become self-reliant and economically independent. 

This MoU marks an important milestone in advancing inclusive development and ensuring sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural families in Bangana Block, District Una. Under this initiative, M3M Foundation is committed to creating livelihood opportunities for more than 2,500 women across Bangana Block over the next three years. 

The ceremony was held in the presence of Shri Kishori Lal Verma (BDO, Bangana), along with other government representatives and M3M Foundation officials Javid Mir and Rishi Bhatnagar.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Viasat Inc. a global communications company, announced the global expansion of the Viasat: Space for Good Challenge, its premier global STEM initiative designed to inspire university students to develop sustainable space solutions to improve life on Earth. Building on the success of the 2025 program, the next iteration will span the United States, United Kingdom & Ireland, India, and for the first time, Australia throughout 2026 and 2027.  
 

Viasat Space for Good 2026
 

India: Returning to a global tech hub

Also, following a successful debut, the Viasat: Space for Good Challenge returns to India to tap into the country’s world-class engineering talent.

• Applications open: June 8, 2026  

• Grand finals: October 27, 2026 – New Delhi, India  

Gautam Sharma, Managing Director, Viasat India said, “Bringing ‘Viasat: Space for Good’ back to India for a second year reflects our deep commitment to this dynamic technology landscape. The innovation we witnessed from students last year was truly exceptional, and we look forward to seeing how this year’s participants build on our mission of digital inclusion to develop meaningful, sustainable space-solutions for India and the world.”  

The Viasat: Space for Good challenge empowers the next generation of innovators to think critically about space sustainability—from orbital debris mitigation to leveraging satellite connectivity for social and environmental impact. Participants move through a rigorous three-stage process: concept articulation, digital refinement, and a final pitch to a panel of industry experts who evaluate technical feasibility, design, and policy implications.  

As Viasat continues to build on and strengthen its commitments globally, the 2026 program places a spotlight on the Asia-Pacific region, fostering local talent to solve both regional and global challenges.  

Empowering the next generation  

While the program’s immediate focus is on upcoming events in India and Australia, it is slated to include the United States and the United Kingdom & Ireland in 2027. Across all regions, winning students will receive monetary prizes and mentorship from Viasat’s global experts, furthering their education and potential contributions to the field of space technology.  

Rebecca Grattan, Chief People and Culture Officer, Viasat said, “Space technology touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives—from how we travel, communicate, and ensure safety. By expanding the challenge to Australia and returning to India, we are reinforcing our commitment to developing talent and advancing solutions that deliver meaningful, space-based impact on a global scale, across land, in the air, or at sea.”  

How to participate  

Visit viasat.com/VSFG to learn more about the program and get involved.