A focused Green Financing Workshop was successfully conducted today in Panipat under the EU Switch Asia – Green Threads Project, in collaboration with the Young Entrepreneurs Society (YES), Panipat, which represents a strong network of 152 MSMEs and exporters from the textile and home furnishing sector.
 

FMC, YES leaders & dignitaries unite to drive Panipat MSMEs towards global sustainability growth
 

The workshop aimed at building awareness and facilitating access to green financing solutions, while also sensitizing MSMEs on evolving sustainability requirements in global markets, particularly the European Union.
 

The session was organised by the Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC) along with its consortium partners Copenhagen Business School and SIDBI, bringing together key stakeholders including representatives from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), and the Haryana MSME Department.
 

The event opened with remarks from Mr. Rajat Grover, President, YES, who emphasised the urgency for MSMEs to align with global sustainability norms.
 

A significant focus of the session was on SIDBI’s green financing products, including SPICE, EDGE, Working Capital, Machinery Loans, Sthapan, and EV financing, which are designed to support MSMEs in adopting sustainable practices. Participants were also introduced to the BEE ADEETIE Scheme, which promotes energy efficiency investments.
 

In addition, officials from the Haryana Government shared insights on various state-level support mechanisms under the Haryana Enterprise & Employment Policy (HEEP), including Freight Assistance, Market Development Assistance (MDA), Testing Equipment support, Quality Certification, Stamp Duty reimbursement, and Electricity Duty exemption. The session also covered benefits under the Haryana Textile Policy and the PADMA Scheme for pollution abatement in textile dyeing units.
 

As a key highlight of the workshop, Sustainable Production Manuals specifically developed for the Panipat Textile Recycling Cluster were officially launched. In addition, a Digital Product Passport (DPP) pilot programme was also launched, with support from Green Story, to enhance data readiness and traceability of textile waste within the Panipat cluster.
 

The workshop also linked these financial and policy interventions with upcoming European Union regulations, including the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR). Participants were sensitized on the growing importance of traceability, circularity, and compliance, including emerging requirements such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP).
 

Industry leaders from the Young Entrepreneurs Society (YES), including Mr. Rajat Grover, President, and Mr. Raman Chhabra, Ex-President along with YES Members, were present and expressed strong commitment towards enabling Panipat’s MSMEs to transition towards sustainable and globally competitive business practices.
 

Dignitaries Present

The workshop was graced by the presence of:

• Mr P. Shyam Sundar, Director, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

• Mr Vikas Jangra, Joint Director, Haryana MSME Department

• Ms Sonica Chabra, Assistant General Manager, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)

• Mr Peter Lund Thomsen, Professor, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark

• Ms Uzma, Assistant Professor, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark

• Ms Devyani Hari, Senior Director, Center for Responsible Business
  ​

Their participation underscored the strong institutional support available for MSMEs in their transition towards sustainable and compliant business practices.
 

The workshop witnessed active participation, with MSMEs showing keen interest in accessing financing support, undertaking energy efficiency improvements, and aligning with global sustainability standards.
 

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Abhishek Naga, Deputy General Manager (FMC), who appreciated the active participation and reaffirmed FMC’s commitment to supporting the textile ecosystem on its sustainability and compliance journey.
 

The Green Threads Project, supported by the EU SWITCH-Asia Programme, aims to accelerate the transition of India’s textile and apparel sector toward more sustainable, circular, and resource-efficient production practices. As global markets—especially the European Union—tighten sustainability regulations, MSMEs face rising pressure to demonstrate compliance, transparency, and environmental responsibility across their supply chains.
 

The project focuses on capacity building, policy dialogue, awareness creation, and technical support for MSMEs to help them:

• Understand upcoming EU regulations such as ESPR, DPPs, and WSR

• Improve circularity practices, waste management, and product design

• Strengthen competitiveness in global markets

• Build long-term resilience through sustainable business models
  ​

The Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC) is implementing the project in India to ensure that MSME clusters—especially in textile hubs like Panipat and Amroha—are not left behind in the global shift toward greener manufacturing. FMC’s involvement reflects its long-standing commitment to helping MSMEs adopt better practices, access new opportunities, and remain globally competitive.

About FMC
Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC), a leading non-governmental, not-for-profit public charitable trust, established in India in 2005. FMC has made remarkable strides in fostering sustainable livelihoods and environmental progress through our innovative cluster development approach. Our work spans more than 300 MSME clusters, supporting over 100,000 artisanal and industrial units, ranging from household operations to medium-sized production entities. As an empanelled Nodal Agency with the Ministries of MSMEs and Rural Development, FMC extends support to prominent schemes like SFURTI, and is also providing technical, research, and evaluation support to various organizations such as SIDBI & KVIC. FMC has implemented multiple projects on environment and livelihoods with support from agencies like NABARD, UNIDO, UNDP, EU, ADB, and major corporates such as Cisco, Mahindra Finance, HCL, Yes Bank, and Hindalco.

Progressive Business Partnership (PBP), through its sustainable machinery brand PBP EcoAqua, has secured a prestigious export order valued at USD 1 Million from one of Kenya’s most respected hospitality groups, Sarova Hotels.

PBP EcoAqua Wins $1M Export Deal with Sarova Hotels

This strategic partnership represents a significant milestone in PBP EcoAqua’s global expansion journey, further strengthening its position as a trusted partner for premium hotels transitioning to sustainable in-house glass bottled water solutions.

As part of the project execution process, a senior delegation from Sarova Hotels’ flagship properties in Mombasa and Masai Mara visited the PBP EcoAqua manufacturing facility in Chennai for comprehensive technical training and operational familiarisation ahead of machine dispatch.

The structured training programme covered installation protocols, operational efficiency practices, hygiene compliance standards, and sustainability performance benchmarks, ensuring seamless implementation aligned with international hospitality requirements.

The order includes advanced automated glass bottling and water treatment systems engineered specifically for luxury hospitality environments. The integrated solution enables hotels to significantly reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles by adopting high-quality reusable glass packaging, while ensuring consistent safety, purity and operational efficiency.

This collaboration strongly supports Sarova Hotels’ sustainability commitments, enabling measurable reduction in plastic consumption while enhancing guest experience through premium, safe and environmentally responsible drinking water solutions.

Speaking on the development, P. B. Prasad, Founder, Progressive Business Partnership, said, “We are honoured to partner with Sarova Hotels, a respected hospitality leader in Kenya. This order reflects the growing global confidence in sustainable in-house glass bottling solutions. At PBP EcoAqua, we strongly believe that purpose becomes truly powerful when sustainability also makes strong commercial sense. This partnership demonstrates that responsible environmental choices and operational efficiency can successfully go hand in hand.”

Sarova Hotels, recognised for its portfolio of premium properties across key tourism destinations in Kenya, has consistently demonstrated leadership in responsible hospitality practices. By adopting in-house glass bottling solutions, the group aims to

significantly reduce environmental impact while delivering a superior guest experience aligned with evolving global sustainability expectations.

This export order further strengthens PBP EcoAqua’s expanding international presence across Asia, Middle East and Africa, reinforcing its position as a global partner supporting hospitality brands in their transition away from single-use plastic bottled water.

With installations across multiple countries and a growing portfolio of leading hotel brands, PBP EcoAqua continues to support the hospitality sector in achieving sustainability goals aligned with global environmental priorities and responsible resource management.

About PBP EcoAqua

PBP EcoAqua is the sustainability-focused machinery brand of Progressive Business Partnership, delivering integrated solutions for in-house glass bottled water production for hotels.

The company provides end-to-end solutions including water treatment systems, automated bottling plants, glass bottles, closures, consumables and operations support, enabling hospitality partners to eliminate single-use plastic while maintaining premium quality standards.

Guided by its philosophy “Excellence in Every Drop”, PBP EcoAqua partners with hospitality leaders to combine sustainability with operational efficiency, ensuring responsible water solutions for the future of hospitality.

For more details, please visit: www.pbpco.net.

VinFast Auto India, a subsidiary of the global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, launched the all-new VF MPV 7 for Indian customers. The VF MPV 7 is a premium electric, seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle engineered for the space and versatility that Indian customers truly need. The launch marks VinFast’s third product introduction within a year, underscoring the company’s commitment to expand its footprint across the fast-growing electric vehicle market in India.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, at the launch of all-new VF MPV 7 at New Delhi

Designed around the insight that space remains the primary consideration for multi-generational Indian families, with a theatre-style seating layout and a truly spacious third row, the VF MPV 7 seats seven in comfort. It has a wheelbase of 2,840 mm and offers up to 1,240 litres of storage, accommodating luggage, daily essentials, and the lifestyle demands of family life with equal ease.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, launched the all-new, spacious VF MPV 7 for the Indian market at ₹24.48 lakh (Ex-Showroom one India one price)

A 60.13 kWh lithium-ion battery delivers a range of 517 kilometres on a full charge (ARAI certified), while fast charging replenishes the battery from 10 to 70 per cent in 30 minutes. Delivering 150 kW and 280 Nm of torque via front-wheel drive, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in under 10 seconds. The exterior design features all-LED lighting, completing a vehicle that is genuinely premium inside and out.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India and Mr. Nguyen Duc Hieu, Deputy Director Vehicle Program at VinFast, at the launch of all-new VF MPV 7 at New Delhi

In addition, the VF MPV 7 comes with a comprehensive ownership package, including 3-year 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, delivering a best-in-segment assurance package for customers.

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India, said, “The all-new VF MPV 7 is VinFast’s third product for India, and is most suited for customers with large families. It is designed to offer generous space for every member of the family, comfort that makes even the longest journeys feel effortless, and intelligent features that elevate every single drive. With the VF MPV 7, we are entering a new segment, but more importantly, we are expanding our commitment to India.”

Product Highlights – All New VF MPV 7

• Exterior style: Bold upright front fascia with signature V light.

• Standout dimensions in the 7-seater electric MPV segment: The VF MPV 7 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,872 mm in width, and 1,734 mm in height, offering generous space for all occupants.

• Longest wheelbase for enhanced cabin comfort: The best-in-segment 2,840 mm wheelbase provides ample cabin space for all occupants.

• Modern and sophisticated integrated gear stalk on the steering column.

Premium modern exterior styling: Clean, simple lines and subtle contours across the body of the VF MPV 7 lend it a distinct and contemporary MPV silhouette.

• Signature V-shaped LED light

• Dual-function DRL with LED turn indicators

• 48.26 cm (19”) black alloy wheels

• Sporty cladding all-around

• Large window area for all-around visibility

• Chrome window beltline

• Integrated rear spoiler

• Shark fin antenna

• Rear washer, wiper and defogger

Minimalist Upmarket Interiors: The interiors of the VF MPV 7 are simple and minimalist yet offer a choice of a sporty all black interior theme or a premium dual tone black and brown interior theme.

• Tilt and telescopic D-cut leatherette wrapped multi-function steering wheel

• Leatherette seat upholstery

• Leatherette inserts in doors and armrests

• Adjustable headrests for all seats

• All three-point seat belts, with pretensioners in the front row

• Bezel-less day/night IRVM

• Large storage under front armrest

• Utility space under central console

• Chrome lined front cup holders

Configurable Flexible 7-Seat Configuration: The VF MPV 7 adapts to the modern urban lifestyle needs of Indian customers.

• Practical three-row theatre-style seating

• Truly spacious third row, usable even for average Indian adults

• Seat cushioning that offers the right balance of firmness and softness

• 6-way adjustable driver seat

• Second row seats with slide, recline and 60:40 split and ISOFIX

• Third row seats with recline and 50:50 split

• Boot space of 126 L with all seats up, expandable up to 1,240 L

Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Free-standing 25.65 cm (10.1”) infotainment screen

• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity

• Speakers in all doors

• Connected car technology

• Type A and Type C USB ports

• 12 V port in first row and boot

Comfort and Convenience:

• Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold

• Auto-fold body-coloured ORVM with LED turn signal

• Passive keyless entry

• Brake pedal integrated starter (No push button needed)

• All windows auto up/down with anti-pinch

• Automatic HVAC with PM 2.5 air filter

• Dedicated AC controls for third row with ergonomically positioned air vents

• Cup holders in third row

• ViVi virtual assistant

• Camp mode that keeps the lights, HVAC, and infotainment systems on

Performance: Akin to the versatile use of the VF MPV 7, the car is equipped with a powertrain that delivers best-in-class peak output of 150 kW, yet the power delivery is such that even new drivers will be at ease.

• 60.13 kWh usable battery capacity

• 517 km ARAI certified range

• 10% to 70% fast charge in 30 minutes

• DC charging of up to 80 kW

• 150 kW peak power, 280 Nm peak torque

• 0 to 100 km/h in under 9 seconds

• 140 km/h top speed

• Multiple Drive and Regenerative Braking Modes

• Creep Mode

Safety Pack:

• ABS, EBD, BA

• ESC, TCS

• 4 Airbags

• Hill Start Assist

• Roll Over Mitigation

• Emergency Signal System

• All Disc Brakes

• Integrated Dynamic Brakes

Exterior Colours:

The VF MPV 7 joins the VF 6 and the VF 7 in VinFast India’s growing product lineup. Locally assembled at VinFast’s factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, the vehicles are produced in India, for India.

Alongside expanding its product range, VinFast is also accelerating the development of its retail and service network across India. After reaching 35 showrooms by the end of 2025 and recently inaugurating its 50th facility, the company aims to expand its network to 75 showrooms nationwide by the end of 2026, with a focus on growing beyond major metros into cities and towns across the country.

On the service side, VinFast has partnered with various brands and established service partners to set up Extended Service Workshops nationwide. These workshops operate alongside the VinFast dealership network and ensure that wherever customers are, support is close by. By the end of 2026, the number of workshops will reach more than 230 across India.

In parallel, VinFast is rolling out a range of initiatives, including extending its free EV charging programme across the V-Green network through March 31, 2029 for all customers; introducing the “Trade Gas For Electric” programme with attractive incentives, financing packages and flexible loan options; and implementing a Value Assured buyback programme of up to 75% to help safeguard long-term asset value. These efforts are designed to support consumers in transitioning to electric mobility, contributing to the acceleration of transport electrification and India’s emission reduction goals.

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 electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in  

• The brand reimagines grooming through intelligent, multi-functional formulations designed for modern, active lifestyles

• The first wave of the Unbound Brotherhood is already forming at unbound-lifestyle.com

Unbound is entering India’s rapidly evolving men’s personal care market with a philosophy that challenges how the category has traditionally been built. The brand has raised INR 8 crore in funding, led by Fireside Ventures, as it gears up to launch its first range of products across skin, hair, and body care.

Kanika Mittal, Co-Founder and CEO & Atul Arora, Co-Founder & COO of Unbound

At the core of Unbound lies the idea of Zero-Step Self-Care. Instead of encouraging layered routines or single-problem solutions, the brand focuses on engineering high-performance formulations that combine multiple functions into one seamless experience. The approach is rooted in simplifying grooming without compromising on efficacy, making it more intuitive and time-efficient for modern consumers.

India’s men’s personal care market has largely been shaped by basic hygiene offerings or adapted versions of broader beauty products. However, evolving lifestyles are beginning to shift this narrative. A new generation of men is increasingly engaging with fitness, outdoor activity, and high-performance routines, creating a demand for products that are not just functional but also adaptive.

Unbound is being built for a life in motion, with a product philosophy centred on multi-functional care that addresses everyday stressors like sun exposure, sweat, pollution, and hard water. Through consolidated, performance-driven formulations enriched with premium ingredients, the brand aims to simplify men’s self-care into a streamlined, high-impact routine. Designed specifically for men’s unique needs—such as higher sebum production, thicker skin, and greater environmental exposure—it delivers targeted and effective care.

Speaking about the brand, Kanika Mittal, Co-Founder and CEO of Unbound, said, “At its core, Unbound is about freedom. The brand is built on a simple belief that men are more than the roles they are expected to play, and that self-care can be a powerful expression of that freedom. Our research showed that men feel most like themselves when they are immersed in activities they love, whether it’s sport, fitness, or pushing their limits. That insight became the starting point for Unbound. We are extending this idea of liberation across every aspect of the brand—from the moments that matter most to men, to freeing them from sub-par products and unnecessary complexity. At Unbound, everything is designed to enable men to care for themselves without friction, so they can live fully, freely, and in motion.”

Atul Arora, Co-Founder and COO of Unbound, added, “Unbound is being built as more than just a personal care brand. Men’s grooming in India is evolving from basic hygiene to more considered self-care, and we see a clear whitespace for a brand that brings together scientific credibility with a premium, lifestyle-led identity. Having Fireside Ventures partner with us at this stage is incredibly meaningful, given their experience in building some of India’s most iconic consumer brands. This funding allows us to scale responsibly, accelerate product innovation, strengthen brand building, and expand our digital-first distribution across India.”

Prayag Mohanty, Principal who leads Early Venture investments at Fireside Ventures, added, “The men’s personal care category in India is entering an exciting phase of evolution, moving beyond basic grooming to performance-led skincare solutions. Unbound stands out for its clear philosophy of simplifying grooming while delivering high-efficacy formulations designed for modern lifestyles. We feel Kanika and Atul, who come with deep domain expertise and very complementary skillsets across brand building, growth, consumer insight, and product development, are best placed to address this large, growing consumer segment. We believe the brand sits at a compelling intersection of performance and self-care, and we are excited to partner with the team as they build a differentiated offering in this fast-growing category.”

Following recent approvals and direction from the Noida Authority board meeting regarding the development of Sports City in Sector 150, the micro-market has witnessed renewed confidence among homebuyers and investors. Backed by improving regulatory visibility, strong infrastructure growth, and rising demand for low-density living, Sector 150 is steadily reinforcing its position as one of NCR’s most promising luxury real estate destinations.

Ajay Chaudhary, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, ACE Group

Over the past few years, Sector 150 has seen consistent capital appreciation, with current property values in the range of INR 14,000 to INR 17,000 per sq. ft., firmly establishing it within Noida’s premium bracket. This growth has been driven by a combination of selective inventories, high-end developments, and increasing end-user demand, signalling a clear shift from an emerging destination to a mature, investment-grade micro-market.

Strategic location

Strategic Location Anchors Future Growth
Sector 150 enjoys a distinct location advantage as the closest residential sector to the Yamuna Expressway, with direct access to the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway and seamless connectivity to Delhi. Its proximity to the new Noida International Airport further enhances its appeal, positioning it at the centre of a rapidly developing infrastructure corridor.

As connectivity strengthens and commercial activity along the expressway scales up, Sector 150 is expected to witness sustained demand, improved rental prospects, and long-term capital appreciation, making it attractive for both end-users and investors.

Planned Sports City: A Defining Differentiator
A key factor that sets Sector 150 apart is its integration within Noida’s planned Sports City ecosystem, envisioned as a unique blend of residential planning and sports-led infrastructure.

The sector already reflects this vision through expansive green spaces, sports-friendly layouts, and access to recreational infrastructure. With recent clarity from the Noida Authority and gradual execution of the Sports City framework, Sector 150 is evolving into a wellness-driven urban hub, offering a lifestyle that extends beyond conventional living.

A Rare Low-Density Green Ecosystem
Spread across nearly 300 acres, Sector 150 is among the lowest-density sectors in Noida, with approximately 70% dedicated to green and open spaces.

ACE Group to Expand Presence with New Developments
Having played a pivotal role in shaping Sector 150’s premium landscape through residential developments such as ACE Golfshire and ACE Parkway, as well as the sector’s first commercial destination, Ace Medley Avenue, ACE Group is now set to further strengthen its presence in the sector.

The developer is planning to introduce new developments in Sector 150, aligned with the evolving demand for high-quality, design-led spaces in the micro-market.

Speaking on the evolving potential of the sector, Ajay Chaudhary, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, ACE Group, said, “Sector 150 is uniquely positioned at the intersection of infrastructure growth and lifestyle-driven planning. With the added clarity around Sports City developments and the rapid progress along the Yamuna Expressway corridor, we are seeing a strong shift in both end-user and investor sentiment. The sector is steadily evolving into a premium hub, and our upcoming developments are aligned with this growing demand for high-quality, design-led spaces.”

The Road Ahead
With strong fundamentals already in place—ranging from infrastructure and connectivity to green planning and premium developments—Sector 150 is increasingly being recognised as a future-ready, investment-worthy destination.

As NCR’s growth expands towards new infrastructure corridors, Sector 150 is not just benefiting from this shift—it is leading the narrative.

Backed by sustained demand, improved livability, and upcoming developments, the sector is well-positioned to remain one of NCR’s most promising real estate micro-markets in the years ahead.

Website: www. acegroupindia.com.

On World Quantum Day, SRM University-AP etched its name in history by becoming India’s first and only university to establish a Quantum Reference Facility (QRF), boldly stepping into the next frontier of technology and innovation. In a landmark moment, the QRF was ceremonially inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, marking not just an institutional achievement but a defining chapter in India’s quantum future.

Hon’ble AP CM Shri N Chandrababu Naidu unveils India’s 1st Quantum Reference Facility at SRM University-AP with Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan and VC Prof. Ch Satish Kumar

The event was graced by government officials, Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary to Govt of India, Department of Science & Technology; Shri Bhaskar Katamneni, IAS, Secretary, Information Technology, Govt of Andhra Pradesh; Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood,  Principal Scientific Adviser to the Govt of India (online); guests including Scientists from DRDO, DYSL, Director General, NHTL, DRDO, Directors and Scientists from IIT Tirupati, IIT Madras, TIFR  and Founders of Dimira, Qubitec, Qbit Force, Qute Electronics and SRM University-AP leadership, Pro-Chancellor, Dr P Sathyanarayanan and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ch Satish Kumar.

Shri C V Sridhar, Mission Director, AP State Quantum Mission, delivered the welcome address, underlining the significance and impact of this landmark achievement of building India’s very first Quantum Reference Facilities on Amaravati soil. “From a vision to reality, these indigenous QRFs are a launchpad that will drive India to be one of the top five global hubs for quantum research”, said Mr Sridhar.

In his inaugural address, Hon’ble CM Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu proclaimed, “Quantum is not any other Technology. It is the mother of all frontier technologies. Quantum will define the future of computing. India has always had the talent and ambition—but lacked access to real quantum hardware. With the Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility, that gap is now decisively bridged.”

He stated that this was the first time a quantum system in India has been built using a predominantly domestic supply chain, reflecting the national capability. “This marks the shift from dependency to self-reliance, from participation to leadership, laying the foundation for a stronger deep-tech ecosystem,” said Hon’ble CM. He remarked that we as a nation are on the right path to achieve technological sovereignty.

The Hon’ble CM also appreciated the seven participating organisations – TIFR, IISc, DRDO DYSL Pune, Amber Enterprises, Qute Electronics, Dimira, QUTE Electronics, for developing and integrating the Quantum Systems.  He also appreciated SRM University-AP for its proactive spirit, which reflects the role universities must play in driving progress.

This ambitious initiative has been realised in under eight months from conceptualisation to commissioning, and the facility is a fully instrumented hardware testbed enabling real-time validation, benchmarking, and certification of quantum technologies under operational conditions, and can test up to 100 Qubit quantum processes.

The facility is developed in partnership with seven organisations as part of the Amaravati Quantum Valley Project, establishing a broader dual-system architecture, Amaravati 1S at SRM University-AP and Amaravati 1Q at Medha Towers.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar noted that Amaravati Quantum Valley is designed to transform Andhra Pradesh into a global hub for talent and high-end research through its deep-tech startup ecosystem. He described the QRF not merely as infrastructure, but as the backbone of a framework that will position India as a true leader in Quantum Technologies — adding that today’s achievement sends a clear message: India is not just participating in the Quantum Mission, but is ready to shape it.

Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood appreciated the action-oriented approach of the Andhra Pradesh government in shaping the various elements that laid the foundation for the Quantum framework and pillars for self-reliance in quantum technologies. He further commented that Quantum Technology will offer transformative solutions in various domains such as Drug Discovery, Healthcare, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Optimisation Problems, Quantum Radar and Sensing, among others.

Dr L Venkata Subramaniam, Founder, Qbit Force, applauded the clear and decisive leadership that culminated in the Quantum Reality, from being a vision to now a system and later would become an industry.

Shri Prudhvi Pinnaka, Founder, Qubitec, emphasised the importance of Quantum Reference Facilities as not just technological infrastructure, but also an initiation of an ecosystem where research is translated to a real product.

Prof. V Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras and Prof. K. Satyanarayana, Director, IIT Tirupati, remarked that Amaravati Quantum Valley is positioning Andhra Pradesh and India at the forefront of emerging technologies by integrating advanced infrastructure with skilled talent, backed by mentorship, guidance, and enabling policy support.

“Defence and Quantum Technologies are inseparably intertwined,” said Dr R V Haraprasad, Director General, NHTL, DRDO. He emphasised that achieving technological superiority demands strengthening in-house capabilities through indigenous R&D and that this can only be realised through a powerful convergence of academia, industry, and startups.

Pro-Chancellor, SRM University-AP Dr P Sathyanarayanan, thanked Hon’ble CM for his words of affirmation about SRM AP and stated that the university will continue to work for transformation and become an engine for execution for any academic, research and entrepreneurial initiatives. Vice Chancellor Prof. Ch Staish Kumar declared this was an era for transformation, not just for SRM University-AP but for Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh and the nation in rising to the global fronts in Quantum Technologies.

With the launch of the first and only Quantum Reference Facility at Universities, SRM AP emerges as a cornerstone of Amaravati Quantum Valley, positioning Andhra Pradesh among the world’s leading quantum hubs. This initiative lays the foundation for a distributed national quantum infrastructure, reflecting the vision ‘Built in India, Open to India, and to the World’.

Taking forward the hydration partnership, Bisleri International in collaboration with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), adopting a refreshing, witty and candid tone to reveal their limited-edition bottles with the franchise. It features popular cricketers Rajat Patidar, Venkatesh Iyer, and Tim David alongside acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat, unfolding as a behind-the-scenes moment rooted in a funny banter with a surprising twist in the end.

Bisleri brings a refreshing twist to their association with Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The film opens like any other cricket commercial, with a full crew and Jaideep Ahlawat in the director’s chair. But instead of the usual action-packed shoot, Jaideep takes a refreshingly simple approach, asking the players to just sit back, relax and hydrate. What follows is a witty moment that reveals the ‘commercial’ was just a simple water break. With its understated humour and BTS-style realism, this digital-first campaign shifts the lens, making Bisleri and the act of hydration the true stars of the story.

Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, added, “We are delighted to partner with Royal Challengers Bengaluru for the third consecutive season as we continue to champion hydration and create impact. We are sure the refreshing and witty limited-edition reveal film, in collaboration with Jaideep Ahlawat and Rajat Patidar, Venkatesh Iyer, and Tim David from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru team, will be enjoyed by our consumers across the country.”

Commenting on the association, Mr. Rajesh Menon, CEO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said, “We’re always looking for ways to connect with our fans beyond the boundary, and this film with Bisleri does exactly that. It captures the camaraderie, the calm within the storm, and the moments that happen when the cameras are not supposed to be rolling. We’re proud to be part of this film that celebrates the game in such a refreshingly and entertaining way.”

Commenting on the association, Mr. Jaideep Ahlawat said, “It was a privilege to collaborate with Bisleri and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on this project. I love how the film transforms something as basic as a water break into a compelling story. Its simplicity, combined with a natural flow of humour, is what really drew me to the campaign.”

Through a mix of on-ground visibility, digital storytelling, and franchise-led content, Bisleri continues to redefine how brands engage with sporting moments shifting from traditional associations to storytelling that is subtle, immersive, and culturally resonant.

Link to the film: www.instagram.com/reel/DXJMShtt9-R/?igsh=aGZleHBqenlrcHZ0

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.

Razorpay, India’s omnichannel payments platform for businesses, today, announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration with OpenAI, one that will make it easier for developers to monetise their apps by embedding payments in under 5 minutes. Starting today, developers on Codex, OpenAI’s AI coding platform used by over a million developers every week, can now connect Razorpay directly inside the agent and start accepting payments instantly.

Razorpay Integrates UPI Payments Directly into OpenAI Codex

This means builders can now move from an idea to a product that earns revenue in minutes. Instead of spending days setting up payment systems, developers can simply ask AI to add payments while building their app, powered by Razorpay’s MCP Server.

India is already home to one of the world’s largest developer communities and processes over 20 billion UPI transactions every month. As AI changes how software is built, this integration ensures that the products developers create can start earning from day one.

How it works → From Idea to Payment in a Single Prompt

By enabling the Razorpay MCP integration, developers can instruct Codex by describing the product they want to build and how they want to charge for it.

For example, a developer could say, “Build me an AI-powered fitness coaching app and help me collect payments from my users via Razorpay,” into Codex, which will generate an app and automatically set up Razorpay’s payment gateway to handle payments (checkout flows and payment collection automatically).

For student builders, solo founders, and early-stage startups, this removes one of the biggest hurdles to launching a product – that is, setting up payments. Builders can now go from idea to product to revenue without complex setup or building any payment infrastructure.

Managing Payments with AI – Inside ChatGPT

Beyond Razorpay’s collaboration with OpenAI on Codex, Razorpay is also bringing payments management directly into ChatGPT. Businesses can install Razorpay’s App from the ChatGPT app directory and manage payments, etc., simply by asking questions.

For example, a business could ask the system to match payments with their bank statement, check refund status, or track settlements – all through a simple conversation.

“India is entering a moment where anyone with an idea can build a product in hours with AI,” said Shashank Kumar, Co-founder and MD of Razorpay. “But the real shift happens when those ideas can become businesses instantly. Our vision is simple: if AI makes it effortless to build, Razorpay should make it effortless to earn. By bringing Razorpay directly into Codex, we’re paving the way, i.e., the moment a developer creates something valuable, they can start charging for it right away. The next generation of startups won’t begin with funding or infrastructure – they’ll begin with a prompt. And when that prompt turns into a product, Razorpay will be there to power the transaction behind it.”

Oliver Jay, Managing Director, International, OpenAI, said, “Codex is helping developers turn prompts into working software in minutes, and we’re seeing strong growth in adoption in India. In February, weekly users for the tool increased by 4x in just two weeks. Integrating Razorpay directly into Codex means builders can now go from idea to product to revenue in a single workflow, and we’re excited to see how this will impact the builder community.”

This launch builds on Razorpay’s broader vision to power the next generation of AI-driven commerce. Through its ongoing work with OpenAI and the National Payments Corporation of India, Razorpay has also introduced agentic payments in India during the Global Fintech Fest last year – enabling AI systems to securely initiate and complete financial transactions on behalf of users.

Together, these efforts reflect a simple vision: as AI makes it easier for anyone to build, Razorpay is making it just as easy for them to earn.

THE COLLECTIVE, the hospitality-led luxury flexible workspace brand by JustCo, announces the opening of its newest centre at Helios Business Park this April. This marks its second location in India, following the successful launch of THE COLLECTIVE at DLF Cyberpark, Gurugram, and reinforces its commitment to delivering high-quality, design-forward work environments across the region. The brand is also set to open its third Indian location in Mumbai later this year, further accelerating its growth.
 

THE COLLECTIVE by JustCo Opens in Bengaluru
 

Located within one of Bengaluru (Bangalore)’s established business districts, THE COLLECTIVE at Helios Business Park introduces a refined approach to flexible workspaces, where hospitality, design and functionality come together to support modern enterprises.

A timely entry into a rapidly expanding market
THE COLLECTIVE’s expansion aligns with India’s dynamic workspace sector. As one of the largest flexible office markets in Asia Pacific, India boasts an estimated 70-80 million sq ft of flexible workspace, projected to surpass 100 million sq ft by 2026. The flexible workspace segment is anticipated to grow at over 12-15% annually, potentially reaching USD 4-5 billion by 2026.

This growth is fuelled by the widespread adoption of hybrid work models among enterprises, leading to a significant demand for scalable office solutions. Flexible workspaces are becoming integral to corporate real estate strategies, capturing an increasing share of office leasing across the country.

Elevating the workspace experience
THE COLLECTIVE at Helios Business Park offers a reimagined workspace that emphasises experience and belonging, designed to inspire talent and foster culture.

Key features include:

• Thoughtfully designed work environments, from coworking spaces to private offices, that support both focus and collaboration.

• Hospitality-inspired shared spaces and service-led touchpoints.

• Thoughtful daily rituals, from morning Blue Tokai coffee and Makaibari tea to an Evening Interlude session.

• Workstations with Herman Miller seating, height-adjustable desks, and enterprise-ready infrastructure in a Grade-A business setting.
   

More than an office, THE COLLECTIVE serves as an extension of a company’s identity, leaving a lasting impression on teams and clients.

A botanical expression of modern work
Inspired by Bengaluru’s renowned Lalbagh Botanical Garden, THE COLLECTIVE at Helios Business Park embodies a contemporary greenhouse aesthetic.

Design highlights:

• Natural light and materials: Oak, stone, and greenery create an environment that enhances focus and balance.

• Biophilic elements: Thoughtfully integrated to boost wellbeing, productivity, and creativity.
   

This design approach transforms the workspace into a reflection of a company’s identity, providing an elevated sense of comfort and purpose.

A strong foothold in the luxury workspace segment
As India’s flexible workspace market matures, demand is shifting towards quality and experience. THE COLLECTIVE is committed to delivering refined, design-forward workspaces for businesses seeking more than just an office.

“We are seeing continued demand from businesses for workspaces that go beyond functionality to support culture, talent and brand experience,” said Kong Wan Long, Chief Commercial Officer of JustCo. “THE COLLECTIVE is designed to meet that need through a hospitality-led environment that combines design, service and flexibility.”

This opening also reflects JustCo’s broader regional growth momentum. The company has recently launched new centres in Singapore and Taipei, with confirmed openings in Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Seoul, Tokyo, and Yokohama throughout the rest of 2026, underscoring its ambition to build a leading pan-Asian platform for flexible work.

With continued expansion across key cities, THE COLLECTIVE is well-positioned to establish a strong presence in India’s luxury workspace segment, offering a thoughtful and experience-led ap

JustCo
JustCo is Asia’s leading flexible workspace partner, helping to connect businesses, people and ideas through intelligent and flexible workspace planning and solutions. We offer a growing portfolio of brands that serve the flexible workspace needs of the modern workforce, including THE COLLECTIVE (luxury), JustCo (premium), and the boring office (essentials). Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Singapore, we operate centres across 12 gateway cities in the region.

An award-winning organisation consistently recognised as a Great Place to Work, JustCo creates high-quality, tech-enabled work environments that enable flexibility and productivity. Beyond workspaces, JustCo partners with landlords to enhance asset value through flexible space solutions and building activation.

Discover the experience at THE COLLECTIVE by JustCo – Premium Coworking Solutions and follow us on Instagram.