10, Aug 2026
India’s Next Innovators Take Centre Stage at Vande Bharatam

Ahmedabad, Aug 10: Vande Bharatam, the grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship initiative launched by Adani Group Chairman Mr Gautam Adani, has selected its inaugural cohort from more than 26,000 applications across India.
Vande Bharatam received applications from every State and Union Territory, with ideas spanning mobility, sustainability, technology, agriculture, defence, healthcare, manufacturing, education and other sectors. The cohort brings together innovators from varied regions, disciplines and backgrounds, united by the ambition to solve the nation’s problems, build nation-building enterprises and create nationwide impact.
Created on the premise that talent is everywhere, even when opportunity is not, Vande Bharatam aims to connect promising innovators with top mentors, industry leaders, visibility and opportunities, to turn ideas into meaningful enterprises. The initiative is built on Mr Adani’s deeply held belief in giving back to the country that gave him the opportunity to dream, build and grow, and in creating pathways for others to do the same.
Speaking on the launch of the first cohort, Mr Gautam Adani said: “When I look at these innovators, I see the possibilities of tomorrow’s Bharat. Talent has no city limits and opportunity should not have them either. Years from now, I hope we will look back at this first cohort and see among them the founders and innovators who went on to build enterprises that transformed Bharat. This is their initial chapter. And it is Vande Bharatam’s first chapter too.”
Selected through a multi-stage evaluation process, the first cohort will take part in Vande Bharatam Immersive Week, featuring mentorship sessions, interactions with business leaders, entrepreneurs and experts, and successive rounds of evaluation. The program will culminate in the Vande Bharatam Grand Finale on 14 August, where outstanding innovators will be recognised and presented with the Vande Bharatam Trophy.
Vande Bharatam is designed as more than a competition. Its longer-term ambition is to build a national platform that discovers ideas earlier and gives innovators beyond India’s traditional entrepreneurial centres access to people and institutions that can accelerate their journeys.
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- By Neel Achary
10, Aug 2026
Landis+Gyr Expands Edge Applications Ecosystem with Two New Digital Innovators to Power Next-Generation Intelligent Grid
Future Grid and OTS join Landis+Gyr’s open Edge ecosystem to accelerate real-time distribution grid intelligence and innovation across Australia.
SYDNEY, Aug. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Landis+Gyr (SIX: LAND) today expanded its Edge Application (App) Ecosystem in Australia, adding Future Grid and Operational Technology Solutions (OTS) as new partners. The additions strengthen Landis+Gyr’s open global ecosystem, bringing new edge applications to market that enhance real-time intelligence and network reliability.
Landis+Gyr’s Edge App Ecosystem is an open, scalable platform that brings the simplicity and speed of an app-driven model to utilities, enabling real-time optimisation at the grid edge.
As distributed energy resources (DER) adoption accelerates, utilities face unprecedented grid complexity and require real-time visibility to make faster, more informed operational decisions while maintaining reliability.
Landis+Gyr’s platform addresses this challenge by providing a shared foundation for edge intelligence, enabling utilities to extend operational capabilities through best-of-breed applications and analytics.
The ecosystem enables developers to deliver advanced analytics, operational optimisation and customer engagement applications within a secure, utility-grade environment, supporting predictive, data-driven decision-making.
Applications developed within Landis+Gyr’s Edge App ecosystem can be deployed across utilities using the company’s industry-leading Revelo® grid sensing platform, accelerating innovation and expanding intelligent grid capabilities at scale.
Landis+Gyr, Senior Vice President David Maclean, APAC said, “This is intelligent energy, delivered, empowering utilities to unlock greater value from data and build more resilient, future-ready networks.
Innovation at the edge should be simple, scalable, and impactful. Today, our Edge Apps Ecosystem enables utilities to rapidly adopt new applications and unlock AI-driven insights.
We are excited to welcome Future Grid and OTS to our global ecosystem, bringing a growing portfolio of applications to utilities and enabling real-time intelligence and innovation at the edge.”
New Partners Unlocking Next Generation Intelligent Insights
Future Grid is the leading SaaS platform that enables LV distribution networks to be managed seamlessly in real time – powered by advanced grid intelligence technology and AI-optimized analytics that transform massive quantities of data into a clear risk matrix of actions, used across globally by grid operators and utilities from compliance, field crews, grid planning to control rooms.
Operational Technology Solutions (OTS) brings deep expertise in data analytics, edge sensors, and real-time systems, enabling utilities to harness large-scale data, automate insights, and accelerate digital transformation. The company works with leading utilities to deliver advanced analytics capabilities that support the next generation of intelligent grid operations.
Future Grid and OTS join Landis+Gyr’s global ecosystem of application partners, including Sense, Mitsubishi Electric and more, bringing a growing portfolio of proven applications to utilities, ready to deploy and scale at the edge.
As the energy transition accelerates, Landis+Gyr continues to expand its intelligent ecosystem by working closely with utilities and partners to co-create edge solutions that are open and deliver real impact.
David Maclean added “The future of energy is collaborative, built on shared innovation, open platforms, and a collective commitment to shaping a more intelligent, connected, and resilient grid.”
About Landis+Gyr
Landis+Gyr is a global energy technology leader delivering intelligent solutions that connect devices, data, and decisions across the grid. Our mission is to accelerate the energy evolution through purposeful innovation and trusted partnerships. Trusted by more than 2,000 utilities worldwide, we transform traditional infrastructure into intelligent, networked systems that provide real-time grid visibility and control. With these insights, electric, gas and water utilities can anticipate demand, optimize operations, and deliver energy that is more reliable, resilient, accessible, safe, and sustainable. For more information, please visit our website www.landisgyr.com
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9, Aug 2026
CCTV+: Int’l Congress of Basic Science opens in Beijing
BEIJING, Aug. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) opened in Beijing on Sunday, drawing more than 1,000 participants, including scientists, researchers and young scholars from both China and abroad.
Under the theme “Advancing Basic Science for Humanity,” the two-week event will host over 500 academic sessions covering all branches and interdisciplinary directions of basic science, along with frontier topics such as generative large-model reasoning, computer vision, human-computer interaction and quantum information.
Top international scientists will deliver lectures on basic science and frontier science award reports to share the latest global breakthroughs and promote multidisciplinary collaborative innovation.
A diverse range of events will also be held during the congress, including high-level academic dialogues, youth engagement activities, and cultural and scientific exchange programs.
The high-level academic dialogues will feature “Mathematics Night,” “Physics Night,” and “Engineering Night,” bringing together Fields Medal and Turing Award recipients to discuss frontier trends.
The newly launched Women Scientists Forum will invite outstanding female researchers to share their career experiences and discuss opportunities and challenges in scientific research, aiming to inspire more female scholars to scale new heights in science.
The congress will also host a Basic Science and AI Forum for in-depth discussions on core bottlenecks and future breakthrough paths in AI theory, as well as industry trends.
In addition, the event will feature “Tsinghua Day,” which will invite world-leading mathematicians and physicists to Tsinghua University for dialogues with young students, encouraging them to engage in basic science and explore the unknown.
During the congress, an “Explore Huairou” tour will be held to invite global experts to visit Huairou Science City, the International Conference Resort, the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Great Wall International Animation Valley and Doctor’s Farm.
The tour will offer international scholars a firsthand look at the innovation vitality and research ecosystem of the comprehensive national science center, as well as the ecological charm and cultural heritage of Huairou.
It will also demonstrate how science and technology are empowering rural revitalization, showcasing Huairou’s achievements and high-quality development as a world-class strategic science and technology integration demonstration zone.
This year marks the fourth year of the ICBS being held in Beijing. It is co-hosted by the Beijing Municipal Government, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the China Association for Science and Technology, and the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians.
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8, Aug 2026
Chandigarh University Researchers Granted Patent for Attendance-Based Health Monitoring System to Monitor Three Vital Health Parameters
Students and Employees to benefit with regular monitoring of mental & physical health
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A team of researchers at Chandigarh University has developed an attendance-based health monitoring system which integrates biometric attendance authentication with real-time physiological health monitoring. The system simultaneously measures multiple vital health parameters including body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure on a single device during biometric attendance.
This innovative health monitoring system, developed by Chandigarh University Researchers, Dr Vikas Wasson, Professor CSE & Director (Engineering Foundations), Dr Sachin Kalsi, Associate Professor (Mechanical Engineering) and Head-Academic Operations (E-Governance) along with three CU students Rishabh Raj, Paras Gupta, Vikas Sharma has been granted a patent by the Indian Patent Office in 2026.
Prof Wasson said the invention addresses a growing societal concern where students and employees often work or study for long hours under intense academic and professional pressure, while neglecting their physical well-being. “In today’s highly competitive world, students and working professionals pursue their academic, career and organisational goals, many times at the cost of their health. But long working hours, stress, irregular routines and inadequate attention to well-being gradually affects an individual’s physical and emotional health. We live in an age surrounded by intelligent technology, yet most attendance systems do not pay attention to the well-being of the person. This invention is an attempt to bridge that gap by integrating health monitoring into an activity that people already perform every day. By monitoring vital health parameters, the system can support the early identification of unusual health trends, thereby contributing to healthier workplaces and educational institutions,” he said.
Prof Kalsi said the invention provides a practical solution for integrating daily attendance management with preventive healthcare monitoring. “Since attendance recording is a mandatory activity in most organizations and educational institutions, the system enables routine health assessment without requiring additional effort from users. It also supports digital health record management by maintaining authenticated historical health data, which can be useful for health trend analysis, occupational safety, and institutional health management,” he said.
“In addition, the system reduces the dependence on wearable monitoring devices by embedding health monitoring directly into the attendance process, making it cost-effective and scalable for large organizations. Overall, the invention contributes to the advancement of smart healthcare infrastructure by combining biometric authentication, real-time physiological monitoring, automated health assessment, and institutional alert mechanisms into a single integrated platform, thereby promoting proactive healthcare, improving safety, and supporting the development of intelligent workplaces and smart educational campuses,” he added.
Prof Wasson said, “Almost every day, millions of us walk up to a biometric machine — in schools, colleges, coaching centres, and offices. Rather than only recording who showed up, the enhanced biometric sensor also reads three vital signs — blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate. In one effortless gesture that people already perform every single day, the machine begins to understand not just whether a person is present, but how they truly are on the inside,”.
Prof Kalsi said, “A single stressful morning — a frantic rush to reach office on time — can spike anyone’s heart rate and blood pressure. So the system never judges a person on one reading. Instead, it monitors each individual over a seven-day period to learn their personal, normal baseline. Only a genuine, sustained deviation from that baseline is treated as meaningful. Crucially, the readings are never displayed on the screen, because a person confronted with alarming numbers may panic and worsen their own condition. Instead, the weekly data will flow confidentially to the Human Resource team. If someone’s pattern shifts in a concerning way, the HR department can take timely action to provide required medical help,” he added.
Prof Wasson said sensors for blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate all exist today but as separate instruments and have not traditionally been integrated into a single attendance device that millions use at their workplace daily. “The true novelty here is integration: fusing quiet health monitoring into routine biometric attendance, so that emotional and physical distress can be detected early, within the natural rhythm of everyday life, without asking anyone to do a single extra thing. The mission is stated plainly, and it is deeply human: to save lives. By transforming a mundane daily habit into a compassionate early-warning system, this invention aims to build calmer classrooms, healthier workplaces, and — above all — a world where far fewer families are left to grieve the people they love most,” he added.
Congratulating Chandigarh University researchers for getting the patent for attendance based health monitoring system, Deepinder Singh Sandhu, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University said, “This achievement reflects the strong research and innovation eco-system at Chandigarh University to support research excellence and intellectual property generation for advancement of technology. Chandigarh University’s students and faculty members have filed more than 6,100 patents out of which 5800 patents have been published and 260 patents have been granted. Chandigarh University is ranked number one as a single institution in India for filing highest number of patents. CU’s 44 faculty members featured in Stanford University–Elsevier list of the world’s top 2% scientists. The range of research activities at Chandigarh University is wide-ranging and profound. University scholars conduct research in practically every domain, and pursue to develop human knowledge through investigation, invention, and understanding. Chandigarh University is recognized as Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology’s Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) for promoting and advancing the research. To amplify research, Chandigarh University has dedicated an annual budget of Rs 15 Crore for research and has also 60 Research Centres and 15 Centres of Excellence. CU’s research initiatives are further strengthened by 67 projects funded by the corporate sector and government bodies with Rs 90 Crore,”.
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: https://www.cuchd.in/
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8, Aug 2026
12 Value-Added Courses at Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, AI, Business Analytics & More to Boost Student Skills
Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Design Thinking and IoT to enhance employment opportunities for students
LUCKNOW, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has integrated 12 value-added courses into its academic curriculum. These credit-based courses aim to equip students with additional skills alongside their degree, addressing demands in both the current job market and higher education. Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Design Thinking and IoT will now become part of regular curriculum for students.
These value-added courses are being conducted across various fields involving Applied Sciences, Business, Liberal Arts & Behavioral Sciences, and Computer Science Engineering. Incorporated as credit-based courses within the academic programme, they enable students to develop interdisciplinary knowledge and professional skills alongside their regular studies.
A key feature of these courses is that they focus not only on technical subjects but also give equal importance to business, society, environment, leadership and moral values. Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh believes that today’s students need not only subject-specific knowledge but also multidimensional thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
The curriculum includes subjects such as AI in Biotechnology, Biotechnology Entrepreneurship, Spreadsheet Modeling & Business Analytics, Design Thinking & Creativity for Innovation, Foundation in Business Analytics, Public Governance & Systems Management, Introduction to Sustainable Development Goals, Managing Societal Concerns, Power & Politics in Organisations, Psychology & AI, Understanding Society Through a Sociological Lens, and Fundamentals of IoT. Through these courses, students get opportunities to better understand the relationship between technology and society.
According to Chandigarh University, the objective of these value-added courses is not merely to teach additional subjects, but also to develop capabilities in innovation, entrepreneurship, digital literacy, critical thinking, leadership, communication, problem-solving and social responsibility among students. The curriculum has been designed in alignment with National Education Policy 2020 principles, which emphasize multidisciplinary and experiential learning.
The duration of these courses ranges from 30 to 60 hours, with each course carrying 2 to 4 academic credits. Teaching is primarily conducted through offline classrooms. Additionally, students learn through interactive lectures, case studies, group discussions, practical demonstrations, project-based learning, seminars and expert talks. This ensures a focus not only on theoretical knowledge but also on practical application.
Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has made these value-added courses part of the academic curriculum. As per the programme, several courses are mandatory for students, ensuring every learner acquires additional professional and interdisciplinary skills alongside their main subject. This will strengthen students’ employability and prepare for future challenges.
These courses have been developed by experienced faculty members considering current industry trends and academic requirements. During the programme, guest lectures, seminars, projects and workshops by industry and academic experts are also included. This provides students with opportunities to understand emerging technologies, business practices, sustainability and social issues from a practical perspective.
The curriculum covers subjects like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Business Analytics, Spreadsheet Modeling, Design Thinking, Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Development Goals, Public Governance, Psychology, Sociology, Leadership and Ethical Decision Making. Special attention is also given to professional skills such as communication, collaboration, teamwork and social responsibility.
Students from the first batch at Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has successfully completed these courses, while the next batch is currently studying. Students enrolled in these programmes have participated in interdisciplinary projects, innovation challenges, research activities, internships, entrepreneurship and community engagement programmes. This has resulted in improvements in their analytical ability, creative thinking, leadership skills and confidence.
On this occasion, Prof. Dr. T.P. Singh, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, said, “In the coming times, we will expand the number and scope of value-added courses. New interdisciplinary courses will be crafted by keeping emerging technologies, evolving industry needs and global academic trends in mind. The curriculum will be reviewed periodically to ensure students continue to receive future-ready learning opportunities”.
Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh is committed to providing quality higher education with a focus on innovation, research and industry collaboration. The university offers diverse undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across multiple disciplines with emphasis on experiential learning and skill development.
About Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow)
Envisioned to foster a culture of sustainability and empower future global leaders, Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, immerses 21st-century learners in a personalised and experiential learning experience, integrating an AI-powered academic model and a multidimensional, futuristic perspective on education. Our Uttar Pradesh campus carries forward the venerable legacy of more than a decade of Chandigarh University, Punjab, which has established itself as India’s No. 1 Private University and a torchbearer of groundbreaking pedagogy and research-driven innovation. The AI-augmented new campus offers a broad spectrum of industry-driven futuristic academic programs encompassing data-driven insights, virtual reality experiences, real-world simulations, corporate mentorship, international perspective, interdisciplinary research, cultivation of entrepreneurial spirit, and professional competencies.
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8, Aug 2026
Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj Enlightens Chandigarh University Students with Timeless Teachings of Bhagavad Gita
Bhagavad Gita Can Help Gen Z Deal with Tension, Stress, Depression in Today’s Competitive World, says Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj at Chandigarh University
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — “Bhagavad Gita is not merely a religious text but a way of life. It’s a logical, practical, universal and scientific way of life. As Gita addresses every problem and offers solutions for them all, this epic scripture can help Gen Z in dealing with the tension, stress, and even depression in today’s competitive world,” said Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj, during a transformative dialogue with Gen Z students on ‘Gita clarity, purpose and courageous action for a changing world’ at Chandigarh University on August 7th.
This interactive dialogue, organized the Department of Student Welfare’s ‘Centre of Student Wellbeing’, covered wide range of topics including ‘purpose in uncertain times’, ‘calm under pressure’, ‘ambition with inner balance’, ‘duty, freedom and ethical action’, and ‘meaningful living in the modern world’. This dialogue was attended by Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj as Chief Guest along with other dignitaries including Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to the Chancellor of Chandigarh University.
In his spiritual address to students, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said that anxiety about the future overpowers the present and weakens our willpower. Giving example of shooter Manu Baker, who credited Bhagavad Gita’s teaching that one should focus on karma, not on the outcome of the karma for her success in winning two medals at the Paris Olympics, he said Gita can help students in dealing with the tension, stress, and even depression in today’s competitive world.
“That is why the Gita says ‘do not turn the future into a source of anxiety, focus on the present’. What happens next is not in your hands and you should concentrate only on present. Keeping the teachings of Bhagavad Gita in mind, nothing is impossible. Gen Z should set a good example in life and become a shining example for others yourself,” Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said.
He said for concentration and confidence, youngsters should dedicate a few minutes each day to meditation. “Meditation isn’t solely about religious faith, think of it like charging your mobile phone. You plug it in daily to connect it to a power source, it charges up and then powers you through the entire day. This is particularly relevant for today’s students, as they inhabit a different world—one heavily influenced by social media—which often distances them from reality. With the rise of AI and social media these days, the primary need is the ‘courage to choose wisely’. You must make choices regarding social media with awareness—specifically, being aware of what is truly beneficial for you at this stage of life. Consider it like a ladder which can take you upward but if you do not tread carefully, your foot might slip, and it could cause you to fall,” Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said.
On the question of how the Gen Z should strike a balance between their freedom and responsibility, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said that unrestricted freedom shouldn’t become a license to do whatever one whimsically desires.
“Freedom without responsibility or discipline, is harmful. It won’t earn you respect. Freedom is a good thing, but if freedom is leading a person towards pub culture, drug addiction or wrong circle of friends, then it is a bad thing. Therefore, embrace freedom, but keep your focus on responsibility,” he said.
Answering queries during the interactive session, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said, “One must learn from past mistakes without letting his or her mind become so disheartened that it closes off future paths. Life is incredibly precious; do not call your life into question just because of a single shortcoming. There is so much more to life—keep making good decision.”
Earlier in his welcome address, Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to the Chancellor of Chandigarh University said, “Chandigarh University was established in 2012 with the resolve to become not merely a center of education, but a powerful medium for upholding Indian culture and moral values, and for nation-building. The University aims to mold young individuals who understand their responsibilities toward society and the nation. Much like Indian culture itself, values such as human dignity, empathy, humility, and generosity form the foundation of every activity at Chandigarh University. The University has set numerous new benchmarks in the fields of academic excellence, research, sports, cultural activities, and placements. The essence of life lies in having the courage to make wise choices; if you make the right choice, no challenge can stop you from moving forward.”
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: https://www.cuchd.in/
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8, Aug 2026
India Pushes for Fairer Trade and Greater Opportunities for MSMEs at BRICS Meet
Jaipur, Aug 8: India has reaffirmed its push for a more balanced and inclusive global trading system, with the interests of farmers, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and small businesses placed at the centre of its approach to international trade.
A proud day for India’s BRICS Chairship 🇮🇳
At the 16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Jaipur, reaffirmed India’s commitment to balanced trade and expanding avenues in the services sector for our people, while keeping the interests of our farmers, MSMEs and small businesses at… pic.twitter.com/ArkgRsq93G
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) August 7, 2026
The message was highlighted at the 16th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Jaipur, where India stressed the need to expand trade opportunities while ensuring that the benefits of global commerce reach a wider section of the economy.
India also emphasised the importance of expanding opportunities in the services sector, which has become an increasingly important source of employment, exports and economic growth for the country.
For India, services ranging from information technology and professional services to business support and emerging digital industries represent a major opportunity to strengthen its position in global markets.
At the same time, the government stressed that greater international market access should not come at the expense of domestic producers. Farmers, artisans, MSMEs and small businesses remain important parts of the country’s economic base and need a trading environment that provides opportunities while protecting legitimate interests.
The discussions at the BRICS meeting also reflected the changing nature of international trade, with digital commerce, technology, investment and cross-border business increasingly shaping global economic relationships.
A fair and rules-based multilateral trading system can provide smaller businesses with greater certainty as they seek to enter new markets. For MSMEs in particular, improved trade access, easier procedures and better financial support could help them expand beyond local markets.
India’s emphasis on balanced trade also comes at a time when global supply chains and trading relationships are undergoing significant changes. Diversifying markets and strengthening economic partnerships have become increasingly important for businesses seeking long-term growth.
For Indian farmers and small enterprises, the larger objective is to turn international trade into a practical opportunity — one that can help increase market access, support incomes, create jobs and encourage entrepreneurship.
The BRICS discussions therefore underline India’s broader effort to combine global economic integration with domestic priorities, ensuring that the country’s growing participation in international trade remains inclusive, balanced and supportive of grassroots businesses.
8, Aug 2026
Dr. Sharad Chandra Bhaiya Authors ‘Journey Into Black Holes’, Bringing the Mysteries of Black Holes Closer to Young Readers
A science-focused book seeks to develop curiosity about black holes, space science, astronomy and research among students

India, August 2026: A new book exploring one of the most intriguing subjects in the universe—black holes—has brought the mysteries of space science into sharper focus for young readers. Authored by Dr. Sharad Chandra Bhaiya, former Physics lecturer,
Journey Into Black Holes is an effort to present the subject of black holes in an accessible manner and encourage students to develop a deeper interest in space science, astronomy and scientific research.
The book was formally unveiled at BSP Senior Secondary School, Sector 10, Bhilai, in the presence of teachers and students. The occasion marked the presentation of a science-oriented work aimed at making a challenging and fascinating subject more approachable for learners and encouraging them to look beyond conventional classroom learning.
At the heart of Journey Into Black Holes is an attempt to build scientific curiosity. Black holes have long fascinated scientists and the wider public because of the questions they raise about the universe. Through his book, Dr. Bhaiya seeks to introduce students to this subject in a simple and understandable manner, enabling them to engage with scientific ideas without feeling overwhelmed by their complexity.
The book also reflects the author’s larger objective of encouraging an interest in scientific enquiry and research among young minds. By bringing the subject of black holes into a student-friendly format, the book aims to stimulate questions, encourage independent thinking and create greater enthusiasm for exploring the universe.
As part of the book’s unveiling, Dr. Sharad Chandra Bhaiya interacted with the students and explained aspects related to black holes in simple language. He also responded to questions from the students, creating an opportunity for them to engage directly with the subject and clarify their understanding of a phenomenon that remains one of the most fascinating areas of space science.
The publication of Journey Into Black Holes is therefore not merely an exploration of a scientific subject; it is also an attempt to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and youthful curiosity. The book seeks to encourage students to develop a questioning mindset and take a greater interest in astronomy, space science and research.
With its focus on a subject that continues to capture global scientific imagination, Journey Into Black Holespositions itself as a contribution towards making conversations around black holes and space science more accessible to students and general readers. The book carries a simple but important message: curiosity about the universe can be the starting point for a deeper journey into science.
8, Aug 2026
UWM Engineering Student Brings Metal Casting to the Masses
It’s a typical evening at the bar, glasses clinking and conversation humming, until an unusual sight warrants a double take. At a nearby table, a young man in a T-shirt and jeans — and safety goggles and gloves — appears to be casting metal. Tiny furnace burning and molten tin pouring, a curious crowd is forming fast. Once they realize they’re invited to join in, their surprise turns to excitement. This is definitely not your average Milwaukee happy hour.
The man behind the metal is Swaroop Behera, a doctoral student in engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He’s running Foundry in a Box, a portable outreach kit designed to give people a hands-on intro to metal casting. If you’re lucky enough to stumble across one of these pop-up events, you might walk away not only with a new appreciation for applications of materials science in engineering, but with a freshly cast metal keychain you made yourself.
Recasting Foundry in a Box
Behera has long been active in student organizations, from arts and cultural clubs during his undergraduate studies in India, to international student groups at UWM and, most recently, the student chapter of the American Foundry Society. Participation in the chapter had dwindled — until Behera stepped up as president. He revitalized the group with a new outreach focus, aimed at getting middle school, high school and even UWM undergraduate students excited about how studying metals could enhance their skills in a variety of engineering fields.
“A lot of students have never heard of it,” Behera said. “But so long as anyone is making something out of any metal, metal casting is going to be there.”
That’s where Foundry in a Box comes in. The ultra-portable demonstration allows anyone (even Milwaukee bar patrons) to create their own metal souvenirs using molten tin, showing the metal casting process in a tangible and engaging way. While the activity had existed for years, Behera expanded its reach at UWM, increasing participation from a handful of students each year to hundreds and building partnerships with local schools. Behera co-presented on Foundry in a Box at a Wisconsin Technology Education Association conference — the session was so full that it was standing room only, he said.
“It’s a very simple tool for getting the creative juices flowing in students,” Behera said. “When they make something with their own hands, their mind and their heart attaches to it.”
The path ahead
The success of Behera and his fellow metal casting students hasn’t gone unnoticed. The Foundry Educational Foundation, a national organization dedicated to bridging the gap between universities and industry, was so impressed that it launched a new fellowship to support graduate students in UWM’s College of Engineering & Applied Science. Behera became its first recipient, earning three years of support for his studies and outreach initiatives.
Behera’s graduate research focuses on developing new aluminum alloys that could one day replace titanium in high-temperature applications. His work could have major implications for industries that rely on lightweight yet strong materials, from aerospace to manufacturing.
As he nears the completion of his PhD, Behera is weighing his next steps. While he loves teaching and outreach, he’s also drawn to industry, where academic innovations move from concept to reality.
“Science has gone really far ahead, and technology is playing catch-up — that’s where materials science comes in. You’re always trying to figure out and solve a specific problem for a given industry,” he said.
Regardless of where he ends up, one thing is certain: His passion for engineering and his commitment to inspiring the next generation will remain at the heart of his work.
“Whatever gives me the opportunity to continue spreading knowledge — I would love to continue doing that.”
8, Aug 2026
GHR Infra Launches ‘2BHK Freedom Offer’ at GHR Callisto, as part of its Independence Day offering
Hyderabad, Aug 8: GHR Infra has launched the ‘2BHK Freedom Offer’ at GHR Callisto, its IGBC Green Homes Pre-certified Gold-rated residential community in Kollur, Hyderabad. Spread across 8.3 acres, with nearly 70percentage open space, the project is located around 10 minutes from Neopolis and offers 2, 2.5, 3 and 4 BHK residences. Introduced on the occasion of Independence Day, the offer applies to select 2 and 2.5 BHK homes starting at INR 83 lakh.
Under the offer, homebuyers receive a complimentary modular kitchen from IKEA, along with the choice of an EV parking provision or two years of common area maintenance. Eligible homes can also be booked with a 10 per cent down payment, helping buyers manage some of the immediate expenses associated with purchasing and setting up a new home.
The announcement adds to the range of Independence Day home offers available to buyers exploring flats for sale in Hyderabad. As the Hyderabad real estatemarket continues to expand across its western corridor, homebuyers are placing greater emphasis on project completion, connectivity, usable open space and the overall cost of ownership.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr Karteesh Reddy Madgula, CEO, GHR Infra, said,
“The beginning of Phase 1 handovers marks an important moment for GHR Callisto and the families who have chosen to make this community their home. Buyers today assess the complete cost and experience of homeownership, including interiors, maintenance and future mobility needs. Through the 2BHK Freedom Offer, we are addressing some of these immediate considerations while giving buyers the flexibility to select a benefit that is most relevant to them.”
GHR Callisto comprises 1,190 homes across four residential towers, with configurations ranging from 2, 2.5, 3 and 4 BHK. Its 2 and 2.5 BHK residences, measuring approximately 1,195 sq. ft. and 1,295 sq. ft. respectively, are designed for young professionals, first-time homebuyers and growing families looking for 2 BHK apartments in Hyderabad and apartments in Kollur.
For buyers planning to buy a flat in Hyderabad, the commencement of Phase 1 handovers provides greater visibility into the project’s progress and living environment. The offer also positions GHR Callisto among the new residential projects in Hyderabad that combine homeownership benefits with ready community infrastructure.
The project has been planned around GHR Infra’s philosophy of ‘Smart Life in Nature’. Its smart and sustainable features include home automation, EV fast-charging infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, grey-water treatment, organic waste composting and Vaastu-compliant homes.
A 50,000 sq. ft. clubhouse forms the recreational and social centre of the community. The development also includes three swimming pools, an amphitheatre, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, work-from-home and co-working spaces, landscaped open areas and round-the-clock security.
Located in Kollur, GHR Callisto offers access to Neopolis, the Financial District and HITEC City, along with nearby educational institutions, healthcare facilities and leisure destinations. This connectivity, combined with the project’s open spaces and amenities, makes it relevant for buyers considering apartments in Kollur, Hyderabad, as well as those comparing premium apartments in Hyderabad.
With 2 BHK homes continuing to attract interest from end-users seeking a balance of space, value and connectivity, the offer is aimed at buyers evaluating 2 BHK flats in Hyderabad for self-use or long-term ownership.
The ‘2BHK Freedom Offer’is available for a limited period on eligible 2 and 2.5 BHK homes at GHR Callisto. Terms and conditions apply.