Ameera Shah-led Metropolis Healthcare Limited (NSE: METROPOLIS | BSE: 542650), India’s second largest and the most trusted pathology laboratory chain, hosted a high-impact Scientific Symposium on Genomics, bringing together over 300 clinicians, researchers, scientists and academicians to advance the clinical integration of genomic diagnostics across India’s healthcare ecosystem. 

Eminent healthcare leaders and scientific experts at the Metropolis Centre of Genomics Scientific Symposium in Mumbai

The symposium also marked the formal unveiling of Metropolis’ Centre of Genomics to the clinician community, reinforcing the Company’s broader clinical engagement initiative focused on embedding advanced molecular diagnostics into routine medical practice. As precision medicine gains momentum in India and globally, the forum highlighted the shift from episodic testing to integrated, molecular-driven care pathways enabling earlier diagnosis, precise risk stratification, and personalised treatment across oncology, neurology, and women & child health.

Ms. Ameera Shah, Promoter and Executive Chairperson, Metropolis Healthcare addressing at the Centre of Genomics Scientific Symposium

Across oncology, discussions centred on tumour profiling, biomarker-driven therapies, and the expanding role of next-generation sequencing in guiding targeted cancer care. Neurogenomics sessions examined inherited and rare neurological disorders, including genetic epilepsies and neuromuscular conditions, highlighting how genomic testing can reduce diagnostic delays and enable personalised management strategies. In women and child health, experts explored reproductive genomics, prenatal diagnostics, and genetic counselling, underscoring the role of early molecular insights in improving pregnancy outcomes and paediatric care. 

These thematic discussions were conducted through parallel sub-specialty sessions led by Key Opinion Leaders, Medical Advisory Board members, and distinguished national and international speakers, featuring panel discussions and case-based deliberations to deepen clinical engagement across specialties.

Clinicians also shared real-world case experiences demonstrating how genomics is enabling a transition from symptomatic management to evidence-based, targeted interventions, improving diagnostic clarity and reducing uncertainty in complex clinical scenarios. The discussions reflected a broader shift toward longitudinal, data-driven diagnostic journeys that support continuous and personalised patient management.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Ameera Shah, Promoter and Executive Chairperson, Metropolis Healthcare Limited, said, “The next phase of healthcare will be defined by how effectively genomic intelligence is embedded into clinical workflows at scale. The opportunity ahead lies in creating connected ecosystems where diagnostics, data science, and clinical expertise work seamlessly together. At Metropolis, we are focused on integrating molecular intelligence into everyday decision-making so that precision medicine moves toward becoming the standard of care, not the exception.”

Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd., said, “As genomic medicine expands, the real challenge is not access to technology but ensuring accuracy, interpretation, and accountability at every step. Scaling responsibly requires rigorous validation frameworks, structured reporting standards, and close collaboration between scientists and clinicians so that genomic findings are applied with clarity and confidence in patient care.”

The symposium featured participation from an eminent panel of national and international clinicians and experts, including Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Suresh Advani, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, Jaslok Hospital; Dr. Aniruddha Deshpande, Professor, Sanford Burnham Prebys, La Jolla, California; Prof. Stefan Bohlander, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Dr. Jyoti Bajpai, Senior Consultant, Precision Oncology, Sir H.N. Reliance Hospital and Apollo Hospital; Dr. Mehboob Basade, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, H.N. Reliance Hospital, Jaslok Hospital and Saifee Hospital; Dr. Anita Bhaduri, Senior Consultant, Histopathology, P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai; Dr. Charulata Sankhla, Neurologist, P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai; Dr. Rahul T. Chakor, Neurologist, Nair Hospital, Mumbai; Dr. Neelu Desai, Paediatric Neurologist, P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai; Dr. Pradnya Gadgil, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Neurology and Complex Epilepsy, SRCC Children’s Hospital; Dr. Mayank Nilay, Clinical Geneticist, Post Graduate Institute of Child Health, Noida; Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, Ex-President, FOGSI and Chief IVF Consultant and Endoscopist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune; Dr. Chander Lulla, Consultant Sonologist and Fetal Medicine Specialist, Head – Ultrasound, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai and Senior Consultant at Reliance HN Hospital and Ria Clinic; and Dr. Anupkumar Rawool, Senior Consultant Clinical and Cancer Geneticist, Founder and Director, Sahaj Genetic Clinic, Pune.

About Metropolis Centre of Genomics 
The Centre of Genomics at Metropolis Healthcare Limited is an integrated precision diagnostics platform built on the Company’s long-standing expertise in molecular diagnostics and precision oncology. Bringing together two CAP-accredited national referral laboratories, advanced next-generation sequencing technologies, and multidisciplinary scientific expertise, the Centre delivers clinically actionable genomic medicine across India.

It supports high-impact specialties including oncology, neurology, reproductive health, transplant immunology, and rare diseases through a comprehensive portfolio of NGS-based assays, robust bioinformatics, clinical interpretation, and genetic counselling across the care continuum. By combining cutting-edge technology with strong clinical governance and scientific stewardship, the Centre transforms complex genomic data into actionable intelligence, enabling earlier diagnosis, targeted therapies, and personalised patient management.

Beyond its current capabilities, the Centre of Genomics serves as a platform for continuous test development, AI-enabled analytics, and deeper digital integration to further strengthen clinical outcomes and operational excellence. With active engagement in pharmaceutical programs, clinical trials, and international collaborations, it is positioned as a strategic partner for global research, companion diagnostics, and precision-led drug development.

About Metropolis Healthcare Limited 
Established in 1981, Metropolis Healthcare Limited is India’s second-largest diagnostic chain, led by visionary leader Ms. Ameera Shah, Promoter and Executive Chairperson. With over four decades of excellence, Metropolis has been a pioneer in delivering best-in-class diagnostic services to patients, healthcare providers, and corporates across India and Africa. The company’s extensive footprint spans 28 states, 7 Union Territories, and over 750 towns in India, supported by a robust network of more than 220 laboratories, 4,800+ service centers, and over 10,000 touchpoints. 

Each year, Metropolis serves millions of individuals by providing actionable health insights that empower better clinical outcomes. Metropolis offers a comprehensive range of more than 4,000 tests and profiles, including advanced tests for diagnosing cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and various genetic abnormalities. The company’s commitment to quality and accuracy is reinforced by its consistent CAP proficiency score of over 98% for the past decade, placing it among the top 1% of laboratories worldwide for quality assurance. The Metropolis philosophy is built on the pillars of technological superiority, a warm, patient-centric approach, and reliable diagnostic reports. 

For more information, please visit www.metropolisindia.com or click on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

In its continuous tryst to strengthen global education excellence and academic leadership, Galgotias University reaffirmed its commitment at the India–Arab University Presidents’ Summit held at Ajman University today.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia at the India–Arab University Presidents’ Summit

The summit’s Presidential Roundtable, titled From Vision to Action, convened higher education leaders to explore strategic pathways for cross-border collaboration, research excellence, and innovation ecosystems.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, represented the institution in focused discussions that highlighted the importance of implementation-led leadership in strengthening ties between Indian and Arab academic communities.

This roundtable facilitated constructive dialogue among university presidents, resulting in commitments toward action-oriented partnerships that promise to enhance global academic alignment and collaborative opportunities.

While addressing the delegates, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “Galgotias University strongly believes that fostering meaningful international partnerships is essential for advancing research, nurturing innovation, and preparing students for global challenges”

“The India–Arab collaboration underscores our shared vision of education without borders. We are committed to contributing to a future where knowledge flows freely and institutions work together to create impact that transcends geography,”  he added.

Dr. Galgotia also expressed his appreciation to Dr. Ashwin Fernandes for bringing together leaders and presidents from diverse institutions and extended special thanks to Ajman University for the exceptional planning and execution of the summit.

The summit marks a significant milestone in Galgotias University’s efforts to strengthen international academic networks and promote global leadership in higher education.

About Galgotias University   

Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings 

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities—public and private combined—this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education. 

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This significant achievement reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic arena and validates its consistent progress in global higher education benchmarks. 

These recognitions reflect Galgotias University’s strategic focus on teaching quality, research impact, internationalization, and industry relevance, and its mission to shape globally competent graduates prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. 

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water company has partnered with Edathala Grama Panchayat, and Green Worms Waste Management Private Limited for a door-to-door waste management and public awareness campaign. As part of Bisleri’s Bottles for Change initiative, the campaign is being rolled out across wards of the panchayat with the objective of strengthening waste management practices and reinforcing mandatory segregation at source at the household level. 

Bisleri, Edathala Gram Panchayat & Green Worms launch a community-led waste awareness drive under ‘Bottles for Change’

The initiative is also aligned with the Government of Kerala’s Malinya Muktha Keralam (Waste-Free Kerala) mission which supports efforts to reduce pressure on public dumping sites and promote sustainable local waste management systems.

The campaign brings together the efforts of the local self-government, implementation partner Green Worms, and grassroots institutions including the Haritha Karma Sena and Kudumbashree units, who will lead field-level outreach and community engagement. Alongside the structured collection of plastic waste, the initiative places strong emphasis on sustained public interaction to encourage long-term behavioural change towards responsible waste disposal.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., said, “Building sustainable waste management systems requires long-term engagement, strong partnerships and active community participation. Through Bottles for Change, Bisleri continue to work closely with local bodies and organisations to strengthen segregation at source and enable households to participate meaningfully in the circular economy. This collaboration with the Edathala Panchayat, partnering with them lays the foundation for sustained environmental impact driven by collective action.”

Highlighting the long-term vision of the initiative, Mr Mohammed Jamsheer, Managing Director, Green Worms Waste Management stated, “Waste management is not merely a project; it is a culture. A clean Kerala can become a reality only when waste segregation becomes a habit in every household. By integrating CSR initiatives like Bisleri International’s ‘Bottles for Change’ with the dedicated efforts of the Haritha Karma Sena, Kudumashree we can create sustainable and lasting social change. The progress seen in Edathala reflects the strength of this collaborative approach.”

The campaign began with an orientation session for elected representatives and Haritha Karma Sena members. The session focused on the principles of the plastic circular economy, global best practices in waste segregation, and the role of community participation in strengthening decentralised waste management systems. 

The week-long drive will sensitise households about source segregation of plastic reducing consumption, reusing, and recycling. The aim is to achieve measurable environmental outcomes, including large-scale collection of non-biodegradable waste and ensuring its diversion to recycling rather than landfills and oceans.

Through Bottles for Change, Bisleri International partners with urban local bodies, state governments, and implementation agencies across India to advance responsible plastic waste management. The initiative combines public awareness, capacity building, and on-ground infrastructure to create scalable, community-led solutions.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

• Signed MoU with Government of Maharashtra for this incubator facility in Navi Mumbai

• Will Establish World’s First Global Mid-TRL Innovation Acceleration and Skilling Institute

• Plans for hubs in other major tech hubs in India such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune
   

CANEUS International, in partnership with the Government of Maharashtra (India) recently announced plans to establish the world’s first dedicated Mid-TRL (Technology Readiness Level 4–6) Institute in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis and Dr. Milind Pimprikar of CANEUS International. The proposed institute will focus on Mid-TRL Innovation, Acceleration and Skilling in frontier technologies-Aerospace, Space, Energy and Deeptech. CANEUS International is a leading global organisation accelerating next-generation systems since 2000.
 

Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Dr. Milind Pimprikar, Chairman, CANEUS International and Shri Binoay B, Chief Strategist, CANEUS International
 

At the signing of the MoU at WEF Davos, Switzerland, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, reaffirmed the State’s strong commitment to the global investor community. He emphasized, “Maharashtra is well equipped and proud to partner with CANEUS International to pioneer the creation of innovation centres across dynamic sectors, frontier technologies, and aerospace. The State takes pride in partnering with this prestigious institute near Mumbai – the commercial capital of India and the world’s fourth-largest economy – perfectly aligning with Maharashtra’s aspirations to scale its innovation ecosystem globally.”
 

According to Dr. Milind Pimprikar, Chairman of CANEUS International, “This world-first Mid-TRL Innovation Acceleration Institute will bridge the ‘valley of death’ by advancing TRL 4–6 innovations through rapid prototyping, systems integration, validation, and flight/field trials, taking breakthroughs from lab to qualification and early production for real-world deployment and global competitiveness”.
 

The Institute will be located in an integrated, purpose-built ecosystem in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), spread over a sprawling 10 million square feet supporting global collaboration, mission stakeholder engagement, and industry partnerships at scale.
 

Designed as a global skilling and capability-building engine, the Institute will be developed in collaboration with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, regulators, research institutions and centres of excellence, ensuring that skilling pathways are aligned with real-world industry requirements in mission-critical sectors.
 

Dr. Pimprikar noted that the institute would be a true game changer, serving as a powerful magnet to attract global aerospace conglomerates to India. The initiative will strengthen talent pipelines for advanced manufacturing and high-reliability systems, enabling the workforce to meet the demands of aerospace, space, energy and deep-tech ecosystems.
 

The Institute will also address a critical global gap in frontier technology programmes: system integration readiness. This capability is essential for aerospace and space missions, where reliability, qualification, and deployment readiness are mission-critical and cannot be compromised.
 

Dr. Pimprikar also expressed appreciation for the dynamic team within the Government of Maharashtra for their exceptional support and commitment. Maharashtra already stands as a leading investment destination, with one of the highest ‘Ease of Doing Business’ rankings in India for FDI inflows.
 

The institute is envisioned as a key catalyst for the Viksit Maharashtra 2047 vision and its ambition to become a trillion-dollar economy, in alignment with the forward-looking objectives of MIISP 2025 (Maharashtra Industries, Investment & Services Policy).
 

The partnership strongly aligns with the Government of Maharashtra’s increasing emphasis on industry-aligned skilling through public–private partnerships (PPP), building demand-driven training programs, strengthening institutional capacity, and creating workforce pathways that directly support emerging and strategic sectors.

About CANEUS International

CANEUS International, Canada, founded in 2000, is a pioneering global organisation that brings together industry, research institutions, centres of excellence, and mission stakeholders to validate, integrate and scale next-generation systems. CANEUS enables end-user-driven consortia, testbeds, pilots and systems integration to accelerate high-impact innovations toward deployment.
 

For inquiries, contact:

Dr. Milind Pimprikar, Chairman | mp@caneus.org | +1 (514) 664-2079

Mr. Binoay B, Chief Strategist | binoay.b@caneus.org | +91 7400030896
 

For more information, please visit www.caneus.org.

Enrich Money, a SEBI-registered online trading and wealth-tech firm, has announced the launch of its fully in-house, India-built advanced stock charting platform, ORCA Chart, developed entirely by its internal technology and R&D team. Designed to meet the evolving needs of traders and investors, ORCA Chart offers unrestricted access to all predefined and premium technical indicators at no additional cost, delivering institutional-grade analytical capabilities to retail participants.

Ponmudi R, CEO – Enrich Money

A key industry-first innovation is the “Share Chart” feature, a real-time collaborative charting capability that allows users to draw trendlines, add analytical notes, and publish structured market views directly on a live chart. Unlike static screenshots that require repeated resharing, Share Chart enables multiple users across locations to view and engage on the same live chart simultaneously, creating a seamless, interactive, social-media-like analytical environment. By encouraging transparent, logic-based analysis and community learning, ORCA Chart aims to reduce dependency on unverified tips and speculative market predictions, fostering a more disciplined and education-driven trading ecosystem in India.

Building on this collaborative innovation, Enrich Money has launched an integrated trading community that allows users to share charts, exchange ideas, and receive real-time feedback from fellow traders—directly within the platform.

ORCA Chart is seamlessly integrated within ORCA, Enrich Money’s comprehensive all-in-one investment platform that brings together equities, F&O, commodities, ETFs, bonds, IPOs, and mutual funds under a single unified framework.

At a time when most stockbrokers in India rely on third-party charting solutions, Enrich Money stands among the select few to build and operate a fully in-house charting platform. This transition from fragmented external dependencies to a proprietary, India-built architecture enhances platform efficiency, lowers latency, and improves system stability—particularly during high-volatility and event-driven market sessions.

“Indian traders deserve technology that evolves at the speed of the markets,” said Ponmudi R, Founder & CEO, Enrich Money. “With ORCA, we have built a fully in-house, India-engineered ecosystem that combines speed, intelligence, and collaboration. By eliminating third-party dependencies and integrating AI-driven insights with real-time execution, we are empowering traders with greater control, deeper market understanding, and a platform truly aligned with India’s unique market dynamics.”

Built entirely in India, the integrated technology stack unifies charting, real-time market data streaming, advanced analytics, AI-driven intelligence, onboarding, and trader collaboration into a single high-performance ecosystem engineered for speed, control, scalability, and reliability across asset classes.

Designed from the ground up for rapid rendering and precision execution, ORCA’s proprietary charting engine supports advanced technical studies with exceptional speed and accuracy. The platform also features Scalper Mode, enabling one-click trade execution directly from the charts and eliminating the delays commonly associated with external charting engines—thereby improving decision-making speed and execution efficiency for active traders.

ORCA is Enrich Money’s most advanced AI-driven investment platform, powered by intelligent engines that continuously monitor price action, volatility, and news triggers. By delivering real-time market insights and instant alerts on key movements, the platform enables traders to respond swiftly and confidently to evolving market conditions.

The platform also introduced an AI-driven Strategy Builder, designed to help traders create, test, and refine trading and options strategies using real-time, data-driven outputs. This empowers users to move from idea generation to structured execution with greater precision and confidence. In addition, ORCA offers AI-based fundamental analysis that simplifies complex financial data into clear, decision-ready insights—helping investors evaluate opportunities with clarity and speed.
Further enhancing the user experience, the platform features an AI-driven KYC workflow that enables fast, fully digital account opening within just two minutes, while remaining fully aligned with SEBI compliance requirements. Last year, Enrich Money became the first distributor in India to introduce mutual fund SIPs starting at just INR 10 on its ORCA App—democratizing access to disciplined investing at an unprecedented scale. Unlike platforms that restrict INR 10 SIPs to select in-house offerings, Enrich Money enables investors to start with just INR 10 across multiple mutual fund AMCs through ONDC integration.

This pioneering initiative has significantly lowered the entry barrier to wealth creation, bringing mutual fund investing within reach of millions—particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and among first-time investors. By combining accessibility, technology, and choice, Enrich Money continues to empower a new generation of Indians to take meaningful steps toward achieving their financial goals and aspirations. (ENDs) 

About Enrich Money 
Enrich Money is a SEBI-registered wealth-tech platform dedicated to simplifying investing and trading. Its flagship ORCA App combines low-cost access, advanced analytics, and seamless execution to empower retail investors across India. With INR 10 SIPs and ONDC-enabled access, Enrich Money is redefining wealth creation by fostering disciplined investment habits for India’s next generation of investors. The company’s latest innovation, Trade Mode, further strengthens its offering by catering to diverse sections of traders with specialized workspaces, faster execution, and advanced strategy-building tools.

The two-day Kala Literature Festival 2026 concluded at the Civil Services Officers’ Institute (CSOI), New Delhi, on a high note, bringing together senior civil servants, industry leaders, acclaimed authors, poets, artists, and cultural performers in a vibrant celebration of storytelling, ideas, and creative expression.

Sanjay Chandra and the other dignitaries with the Jury Members of Kala Literature Awards 2026

Organised by Kala – Krazy About Literature And Arts, an initiative by Sanjay Chandra, the festival was co-curated by Neena Chandra, a leader in sustainability and education for the underprivileged; Payal Chandra, an eminent lawyer; and Atri Pandey, a senior finance professional.

The festival was supported by a strong network of partners including Let’s Talk (co-founded by Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak), CSOI New Delhi, CSC WICCI, PR Professionals, The Alcove, Readomania, IP Infra, and Indie Authors Group.

Day 1: Literature, Reflection and Cultural Expression

The festival opened with Shri Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, IAS, in the presence of noted painter-poets Vishnu Nagar, Ashok Bhowmik, and Hemraj.

In his inaugural address, Shri Dwivedi underscored the role of literature and the arts in nurturing empathy, enriching public discourse, and creating reflective spaces within institutions. He noted that engagement with literature allows professionals to connect more deeply with society beyond the demands of their formal roles.

Founder Sanjay Chandra spoke about Kala’s journey and its growing initiatives, reiterating the platform’s commitment to building inclusive, people-centric spaces where literature and art are anchored in conversation and community.

Curators Neena Chandra and Atri Pandey reflected on the intersection of literature, sustainability, and inclusion. “Literature cultivates empathy, and empathy is the foundation of social responsibility and sustainable change. When we understand stories beyond our own experiences, we begin to build more inclusive systems,” they shared.

Co-curator Payal Chandra highlighted the deep connection between law and literature.“Both are rooted in interpretation, ethics, and the human condition. Law may work through statutes and precedent, but at its core it is about people and their stories. Literature sharpens our sensitivity to nuance, justice, and moral reasoning.”

Day 1 featured engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and book launches, followed by a lively Kavi Sammelan and a captivating Odissi dance performance, bringing together word, rhythm, and movement.

Day 2: Ideas, Enterprise and the Power of Story

Day 2 was inaugurated by Ashok Lavasa, Retd. IAS, alongside industrialists Sushil Kumar Sayal and HKL Magu.

Ashok Lavasa reflected on literature’s enduring role in shaping informed societies and sustaining democratic values, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful dialogue in strengthening institutions.

Sushil Kumar Sayal spoke about the need for economic progress to evolve alongside cultural depth, while HKL Magu called for deeper collaboration between the business world and the creative community.

A key highlight of the day was the launch of two books commissioned by Kala:

• Light of Spring, an anthology of short stories by emerging writers

• Echoes of Dharma by Dr. Sarath, a Japan-based Indian author

These publications reflected Kala’s commitment not only to curating conversations, but also to actively nurturing and publishing meaningful literary work. The day also featured the theatrical storytelling presentation “Re Kabiraa” by The Kahaani Wala, which drew strong audience engagement.

The Showcase: Kala Literature Awards

The Kala Literature Awards, presented on merit, formed the emotional and celebratory highlight of the festival. The awards recognised literary excellence across multiple categories and were keenly anticipated by authors and participants.

The awards were presented by journalist Gyaneshwar Dayal, food and travel blogger Pawan Soni, sustainability consultant Sanjay Sethi, and CSC WICCI President Sonali Dutta.

The evening concluded with the powerful dance drama “Tawayafnama” by The Performing Arts Tribe, bringing the festival to an evocative artistic crescendo.

Literature and Meaningful Conversations

A distinctive dimension of this year’s festival was its collaboration with Let’s Talk, a peer-powered wellness platform that brings people together to exchange perspectives, problem-solve, and support one another through dialogue.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Pooja Chandra and Vivek Pathak, co-founders of Let’s Talk, shared that while literature ignites thought, conversation gives those thoughts momentum. Together, they create spaces where stories deepen understanding, perspectives shift, and shared meaning quietly takes root.

A Vision for the Future

Concluding the festival, Sanjay Chandra shared Kala’s vision of evolving into a sustained cultural platform, one that nurtures emerging voices alongside established ones, and builds a vibrant community rooted in dialogue, creativity, and shared cultural responsibility.

As the curtains came down, Kala Literature Festival 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating literature not merely as performance, but as participation, a living and evolving conversation.

Calling all students with a love for speed, innovation and big ideas. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is kicking off the ‘DETermined to Drive’ Contest: a chance for you to think like a motorsport engineer, showcase your creativity and win experiences most motorsport fans only dream of.

Duolingo English Test (DET) kicks off the ‘DETermined to Drive’ Contest

What’s the challenge?
Imagine you’re part of a race car engineering team. What’s one modification you’d make to any racing car to improve performance, safety or efficiency? Tell us your idea in 100 words or less: what the modification is and why it matters.

What Prizes are up for grabs? 

• Grand Prize: 

  • A chance to meet VCARB F1 Driver Arvid Lindblad at Red Bull Moto Jam 2026 

  • Tickets to Red Bull Moto Jam 2026 in Delhi NCR on March 1, 2026

• Other Amazing Prizes: 

  • Duolingo merchandise

  • Red Bull merchandise

How to Join the Fun:

• Submit your entries Here

• Contest period: 5th February to 25 February 2026

Terms & Conditions apply:
VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Open to legal residents of India, age 18+. Approx. aggregate prize value: INR 2,75,550. Limit 1 entry per person. Entry period: 5 February to 25 February 2026, or until all prizes are awarded. Sponsor: Duolingo, Inc. Full rules here: www.go.duolingo.com/RBContestRules.

Why Participate?
Through the ‘DETermined Drive’ Contest, DET celebrates future study abroad aspirants who are ready to design, build and compete on a global stage.

About Red Bull Moto Jam 2026
Red Bull Moto Jam returns to Delhi NCR for its second edition bringing together top motorsport athletes and high-octane performances. The 2026 edition will feature world-class athletes, including VCARB F1 Driver Arvid Lindblad, who will perform in a racecar, a must-watch for motorsport fans. The event will also feature former Red Bull Racing technician Calum Nicholas, along with other renowned names from the world of motorsport, offering audiences a rare behind-the-scenes perspective into the precision, innovation, and high-performance engineering that define Red Bull Racing.

So don’t just watch innovation. Think it. Design it. Share it. Your idea could take you straight into the world of high-speed racing.

About the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, fast and affordable English proficiency test designed with the test taker in mind. Trusted by millions of test takers, DET combines advanced assessment science with rigorous security protocols to deliver reliable results in under 48 hours. DET test scores are accepted by over 6000 institutions worldwide, including Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Warwick and Yale, empowering students to certify their English anytime, anywhere.

TimBuckdo, India’s emerging student-first social commerce platform, today announced the successful closure of its Rs. 2.70 crore funding round, following its appearance on Ideabaaz, the national television entrepreneurship show aired on Z TV and Z5.

TimBuckDo Closes Rs 2.70 Crore Funding Round Backed by Industry Titans and VCs After National TV Showcase on Ideabaaz

The interest generated during TimBuckdo’s participation on Ideabaaz has now culminated in a completed and fully closed funding round, with all investors concluding their due diligence and formal commitments.

The round saw the participation from a group of global investors including Sandesh Sharda, Turbostart, Anupam Bansal, Arjun Vaidya, and Shaili Chopra, along with Rukam Capital, headed by Archana Jahagirdar, Ideabaaz’s investment arm, and the co-founders of Ideabaaz.

The total investment, which expanded from initial on-air interest to Rs. 2.70 crore, reflects strong conviction in TimBuckdo’s mission to build India’s largest and most trusted student ecosystem.

A Significant Moment for TimBuckdo

TimBuckdo’s journey from national television to a fully closed investment round marks a meaningful milestone for the company. The structured process from pitch, to investor engagement, to diligence, to closure, highlights the platform’s credibility and the growing market readiness of India’s student workforce.

Investor Statements

Ganesh Raju, Founder – Turbostart

“We invested in Timbuckdo because we saw a team with real passion and lived experience tackling a problem many Indian students face every day which is finding flexible, meaningful ways to earn, learn, and gain experience while they study. The founders’ deep commitment to empowering students and their thoughtful approach to building a safe, scalable gig ecosystem convinced us that Timbuckdo isn’t just solving a problem, it’s shaping how India’s students access opportunity and build their futures”

Sandesh Sharda, Angel Investor and Titan on Ideabaaz

“I could relate to the GiG workers problem and TimBuckDo solves it very well. The Management Team is driven and looks like Gig workers will continue to grow in India as we are a young economy driven by youth”

Anupam Bansal, Executive Director, Liberty Shoes and Titan on Ideabaaz

“Timbuckdo is opening meaningful pathways for students through gig opportunities, real-time earnings, and exposure to new ideas. I’m proud to support them with both capital and mentorship as they shape the future of young talent.”

Arjun Vaidya Managing Partner, V3 Ventures I Ventures Lead – India, Verlinvest Founder, Dr. Vaidya’s (acquired) and Titan on Ideabaaz

“India’s young population is a superpower that many don’t talk about. With the rest of the world facing an aging population crisis, we have an opportunity. But, we need to do something about it. As a student, I always wanted to work but I never got my due. Seeing the Timbuckdo pitch brought these things together. Respectable, structured and most importantly PAID work for students in a platformized manner. The size of the opportunity is massive and Ideabaaz is excited to see what this team does with it!”

Mudit Kumar, Co-Founder, Ideabaaz

“The gig economy is redefining how young Bharat learns, earns, and experiments and it’s no longer limited to professionals – it’s rapidly becoming a gateway for students and young talent to gain real-world exposure early. Timbuckdo is playing a critical role in building this culture by enabling structured, trusted gig opportunities at scale. We believe platforms like these will be foundational to Bharat’s future of work.”

Co-Founder Statements

Mythri Kumar, Co-founder, TimBuckdo –

“Ideabaaz gave us a stage to share our mission, but the trust placed in us throughout the diligence and funding process has been the true milestone. We intend to use the funds and the exposure from the show judiciously to strengthen our student community and make gig work a widely adoptable culture. With marquee investors backing us, our confidence in scaling TimBuckdo has only grown stronger.”

Apoorv Sharma Prasad, Co-founder, TimBuckdo –

“Closing this round with the backing of respected investors and partners is a moment of immense responsibility. The process was detailed and thorough, and its successful completion gives us the momentum to accelerate our next phase-from our AI-led student engine to expanding across campuses nationwide.”

About TimBuckdo

TimBuckdo is India’s first social-commerce platform built exclusively for students, empowering them to earn, upskill, and become financially self-reliant through meaningful gig opportunities. The platform brings together AI-driven job matching, dynamic in-store discounts via QR codes, a rapidly expanding campus ambassador network, and full-stack tools for digitising campus events and activities all designed to strengthen the student gig ecosystem and make part-time work an accessible, reliable, and rewarding culture across India.

About Ideabaaz

Ideabaaz, aired on ZTV and Z5, is a national television platform where all-stage founders pitch to leading business Titans and venture firms. The show bridges entrepreneurship, mentorship, and investment, providing startups visibility and access to experienced investors.