22, Jun 2026
Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. Certified as a Great Place to Work in India for 2026–27
Bengaluru, 22nd July 2026: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. has been certified as a Great Place to Work® in India for 2026–27, recognizing the company’s commitment to fostering a high-trust, people-centric workplace culture.
The Great Place To Work® Certification is conferred on organisations that achieve a minimum of 70 percent positive responses on the Trust Index survey, which assesses credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie. With insights drawn from more than 100 million employees across 150 countries over the last three decades, Great Place To Work® represents the global benchmark for measuring and recognising exceptional workplace cultures.
At Royal Orchid Hotels, a strong inclusive workplace philosophy continues to drive the brand’s growth. The organisation has built a future-ready talent ecosystem anchored in continuous learning, leadership development and holistic well-being. Associates at Royal Orchid benefit from structured career progression, continuous learning opportunities, capability-building programs, and a culture that celebrates contribution and achievement. What truly distinguishes Royal Orchid as a Great Place to Work® is its ability to translate its values into everyday experiences—fostering an environment built on trust, mutual respect, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to excellence.
“We are pleased to be certified as a Great Place to Work® in India,” said Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. This recognition reflects the culture we have consciously built at Royal Orchid Hotels-one founded on trust, respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Our people have always been at the heart of our success, shaping memorable guest experiences and driving the growth of our organisation. Receiving this certification based on employee feedback makes it especially meaningful, as it validates our efforts to create an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and inspired to do their best work. We dedicate this achievement to every member of the Royal Orchid family whose passion, resilience, and dedication continue to define who we are.”
Great Place to Work® Trust Index© Employee Survey is the world’s most widely used model to understand employee perceptions about their workplace. According to GPTW, an increase in Great Place to Work® Trust Index© Score positively impacts productivity, innovation, costs, and other business results.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
22, Jun 2026
Assam Products Gain Global Reach, Says Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
Guwahati, June 22: Himanta Biswa Sarma has highlighted the growing global presence of products from Assam, stating that items “made in Assam” are now being enjoyed by consumers across international markets.
Speaking on the state’s expanding trade footprint, the Chief Minister noted that Assam’s traditional and locally produced goods are gaining wider acceptance abroad, reflecting improvements in branding, quality enhancement, and market access initiatives.
He said that the state’s focus on promoting indigenous products has helped local industries and artisans reach new markets beyond India, strengthening rural livelihoods and supporting small producers.
Officials pointed out that Assam’s export potential has been growing steadily, driven by sectors such as tea, handicrafts, agricultural products, and processed goods. Efforts to improve packaging, certification, and global outreach have further supported this expansion.
The government has also been working to promote local entrepreneurship and strengthen supply chains, enabling small businesses and self-help groups to connect with national and international buyers.
Industry observers say the increasing global visibility of Assam-made products reflects a broader trend of regional brands from India gaining traction in overseas markets.
The statement underscores the state’s continued push to position itself as a key contributor to India’s growing export ecosystem while preserving its cultural and artisanal identity.
22, Jun 2026
The Search For India’s Next Breakthrough Innovations Begins As Marico Innovation Foundation Invites Applications For Indian Innovation Icons 2027
Mumbai, June 22 : Marico Innovation Foundation , a pioneer in championing impactful innovations, today invited applications for the 11th edition of its flagship biennial platform – Indian Innovation Icons.
Launched in 2006, Indian Innovation Icons has emerged as one of the country’s premier innovation recognition platforms, spotlighting ‘currently hidden, yet potentially game-changing’ Indian innovations creating socio-economic and environmental impact. Over the years, the platform has spotlighted several upcoming innovators whose solutions have gone on to transform communities and industries across the country.
The 11th edition will recognize innovations across Business (For-Profit) and Social (Not-For-Profit) categories. Applications will remain open from 22nd June 2026 to 22nd July 2026, and interested innovators can apply through Indian Innovation Icons 2027 | Application Form
Indian Innovation Icons follows a unique and rigorous evaluation process spanning over eight months to identify the most disruptive and promising innovations. The process includes two rounds of deliberations by an independent jury for each category, followed by detailed on-ground due diligence conducted by an independent knowledge partner, Deloitte Monitor.
The jury for the 11th edition will feature distinguished leaders from the business, startup, investment, science, and social impact sectors. The Business Category jury will be chaired by Amit Chandra, Chairperson Bain Capital and India, Co-Founder, ATE Capital and include Namita Thapar, Executive Director, Emcure Pharmaceuticals; Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog, former President of Nasscom and former Vice President & MD, Intel South Asia; Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory; Prabha Narasimhan, MD & CEO, Colgate-Palmolive India. Ravi Mariwala, Chairman and MD, Smaart Water; Sanjiv Kaul, Senior Partner, ChrysCapitall.
The Social Category jury, also chaired by Amit Chandra, Chairperson Bain Capital and India, Co-Founder, ATE Capital, will comprise Deepali Khanna, Senior Vice President and Head of Asia, The Rockefeller Foundation; Samarinita Shetty, Co-founder and CEO, IDR; Chetna Gala Sinha, Founder and Chairperson, Mann Deshi Bank and Mann Deshi Foundation; Aniket Doegar, CEO, Haqdarshak; Prateek Madhav, CEO and Co-founder, AssisTech Foundation; Luis Miranda, Co-founder and Chairperson, Indian School of Public Policy.
The grand finale of the 11th edition of Indian Innovation Icons will take place on March 4, 2027, at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai. The event will bring together a distinguished gathering of leaders from the business, startup, investment, social impact, and media landscape to celebrate extraordinary stories of innovation, perseverance, and change.
Harsh Mariwala, Founder, Marico Innovation Foundation said,
“India is witnessing a strong wave of innovators building solutions that have the potential to create meaningful impact at scale. Yet, many breakthrough ideas often remain under-recognized despite solving real challenges on the ground. Through Indian Innovation Icons, we aim to identify and champion such disruptive innovations by providing them with greater visibility, access to networks, and opportunities that can help accelerate their growth and impact. Over the years, the platform has recognized innovators who have gone on to create significant change across sectors and communities, and we look forward to discovering the next generation of transformative ideas through the 11th edition.”
Winners of the 11th edition will gain strategic guidance from Mr. Harsh Mariwala, access to Marico Innovation Foundation’s ecosystem of investors, business leaders, grant makers, and ecosystem partners, along with bespoke mentoring from Marico’s senior leadership, enhanced national visibility, and curated opportunities to accelerate their growth and scale.
Amit Chandra, Jury Chair and Chairperson of the Governing Council at Marico Innovation Foundation said,
“India’s future will be shaped by people who see problems differently and have the courage to build disruptive solutions. Indian Innovation Icons exists to identify and champion such innovators early in their journey. Past winners like Skyroot Aerospace, Dozee, and Astrome Technologies are powerful examples of what happens when bold ideas are recognized and backed early.
Every edition leaves me inspired by the ingenuity, resilience, and ambition of India’s innovators. I look forward to discovering the next generation of those whose ideas might create impact at scale and help shape India’s next chapter.”
Previous winners have included organizations such as Skyroot Aerospace, Indra Water, People’s Archive of Rural India , India Development Review, Ishitva Robotic Systems, Dozee and Khushi Baby, among others.
In the previous edition, the platform received over 1,100 applications from across India, showcasing innovations addressing diverse challenges across the country.
Suranjana Ghosh, Head, Marico Innovation Foundation, said,
“It has been exciting to witness the progress of our past Indian Innovation Icons winners over the years and see how India’s innovation ecosystem has continued to evolve. As we launch the 11th edition, we are eager to discover the ideas, innovators, and impact stories that have emerged since the last edition of Indian Innovation Icons. At Marico Innovation Foundation, we see this as an opportunity to celebrate innovation, and also to learn from the individuals and organizations shaping the future of India. We look forward to spotlighting the next generation of path breaking innovations and invite innovators from across the country to wholeheartedly apply and share their stories with us.”
22, Jun 2026
Baba Ramdev Mesmerised by Lord Jagannath’s Darshan at Puri Srimandir
Puri, June 22 (UDN): Renowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev visited the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Sunday and offered prayers to Lord Jagannath on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga.
During his visit to the 12th-century shrine, Baba Ramdev had darshan of the Holy Trinity and sought blessings from Lord Jagannath. He also interacted with temple officials and servitors during his visit.
Marking the occasion, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration felicitated the yoga guru with the sacred Khandua Pata and offered him Mahaprasad as a mark of reverence and tradition.
Speaking to the media after offering prayers, Baba Ramdev expressed deep spiritual satisfaction over his visit to the Srimandir.
“I am mesmerised by the divine darshan of Lord Jagannath on the occasion of International Yoga Day. I prayed for the good health, happiness and prosperity of the people of the country. India has already emerged as a global leader in yoga, and I pray that the nation continues to progress in every sphere,” he said.
Baba Ramdev also urged people to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives, stressing that regular practice of yoga is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being.
22, Jun 2026
From AI to Data Centres, India’s Digital Rise Accelerates on Global Stage
June 22: Over the past 12 years, India has strengthened its position as a global digital leader, supported by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, expansion of data centre infrastructure, and large-scale digital transformation across sectors.
The country’s digital rise has been powered by increasing adoption of emerging technologies, wider internet access, and sustained investment in innovation-led growth. These factors have collectively reshaped India’s technology landscape and strengthened its role in the global digital economy.
Artificial intelligence has emerged as a key growth driver, with applications expanding across industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and public services. The integration of AI-based solutions has improved efficiency, enabled automation, and supported the development of new digital services.
At the same time, India’s data centre ecosystem has witnessed significant expansion, driven by rising demand for cloud computing, data storage, and high-speed digital connectivity. This growth has attracted strong interest from both domestic and international investors.
Industry experts note that the combination of AI innovation and robust digital infrastructure has positioned India as a competitive hub for technology development and digital services at the global level.
Analysts believe that continued investment in technology, skilled talent, and infrastructure will further strengthen India’s digital capabilities and global influence in the coming years.
The transformation highlights India’s evolution into a technology-driven economy with a growing role in shaping the future of the global digital landscape.
22, Jun 2026
Poonam Maharana Crowned Miss Universe Odisha 2026, Advances to National Level
Bhubaneswar, June 22: Poonam Maharana has been crowned Miss Universe Odisha 2026, securing her place in the Miss Universe India national finals after a state-level selection event held in Pune, Maharashtra.
Representing Odisha, Poonam impressed the jury with her confidence, communication skills, and clarity of vision, standing out among participants from across the country.
Hailing from Ganjam district, she is a B.Tech graduate in Computer Science Engineering with a specialisation in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Her profile reflects a blend of academic achievement and emerging leadership qualities among young Indian women.
Her advocacy work focuses on environmental protection, social service, and entrepreneurship, with an aim to create meaningful social impact and encourage youth engagement in community development.
Following her win, Poonam said the title represents responsibility as much as recognition. She expressed gratitude to her family and mentors for their constant support throughout her journey.
She now prepares to compete at the national level, with aspirations of advancing further on the Miss Universe platform while continuing her work in social development initiatives.
22, Jun 2026
International Yoga Day Celebrations Spotlight “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”
June 22: The global observance of International Yoga Day witnessed widespread participation this year, with the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” gaining momentum across countries, communities, and wellness platforms.
Events, workshops, and mass yoga sessions were organised in multiple regions to promote physical wellbeing, mental balance, and holistic health through traditional yoga practices. The initiative highlighted the growing global recognition of yoga as a tool for improving quality of life, particularly among older populations.
The celebrations brought together practitioners, instructors, and wellness enthusiasts who demonstrated various yoga asanas and breathing techniques aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. Special sessions were also conducted focusing on preventive healthcare and age-friendly wellness routines.
Organisers emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily lifestyles to support healthy ageing and improve overall wellbeing. The theme encouraged individuals across age groups to adopt sustainable health practices rooted in mindfulness and physical activity.
The observance reflected yoga’s expanding global footprint, with increasing participation from diverse cultures and communities. It also underscored the role of yoga in promoting harmony between physical health and mental wellness.
International Yoga Day continues to serve as a platform for spreading awareness about the benefits of yoga, with this year’s celebrations reinforcing its relevance in addressing modern health challenges and supporting lifelong wellbeing.
22, Jun 2026
Actress Nidhhi Agerwal Launches Hair Dare You Rituals, A Premium Hair Wellness Brand Championing Holistic Hair Care
Bengaluru, June 22 : Actress and entrepreneur Nidhhi Agerwal officially unveiled Hair Dare You Rituals, a premium hair wellness brand dedicated to transforming everyday hair care into a holistic self-care ritual. The brand made its grand debut at an exclusive launch event held at Beige, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, attended by members of the media, influencers, beauty enthusiasts, fashion personalities, and industry leaders.
The evening was hosted by celebrated fashion choreographer Ramesh Dembla and featured an elegant brand showcase presented by some of Bengaluru’s leading fashion models, bringing alive the philosophy of Hair Dare You Rituals through a captivating celebration of beauty, confidence, wellness, and self-expression.
Built on the belief that healthy hair begins at the roots, Hair Dare You Rituals has been created to address the growing demand for premium products that focus on long-term hair health rather than temporary cosmetic fixes. The brand combines thoughtfully curated formulations with mindful hair care rituals that nourish the scalp, strengthen hair, and encourage healthy growth over time.
Designed to simplify salon-inspired hair care, the collection includes nourishing scalp oils, restorative hair masks, gentle cleansers, and lightweight post-wash serums that work together to create a complete hair wellness routine.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the brand, Nidhhi Agerwal, Founder, Hair Dare You Rituals, said:
“For years, like many women, I was searching for real solutions to hair problems – not temporary fixes. I realised that healthy hair starts with understanding the root cause. Hair Dare You Rituals was born from that journey. We wanted to create products that don’t just make your hair look good for a day but help it become healthier over time.”
She further added,
“I have been deeply involved throughout this journey – from understanding ingredients and testing formulations to packaging and product experience. Every detail reflects something I would genuinely use myself. Authenticity was never a compromise because I wanted to build a brand that people could truly trust. Beautiful hair isn’t created by chance – it begins at the root, and we want to help people nurture that journey every single day.”
Speaking about the vision behind the brand, Daisy Morgan, Brand Architect & Investor, Hair Dare You Rituals, said:
“Consumers today are looking beyond cosmetic beauty. They want products that are honest, effective, and built around wellness. Hair Dare You Rituals was envisioned as a brand that simplifies holistic hair care while staying uncompromising on quality, transparency, and performance.”
She further added,
“From the very beginning, our vision was to build a brand with purpose—not just another celebrity beauty label. Every formulation, every ingredient, and every customer touchpoint has been thoughtfully created to encourage people to invest in long-term hair health. We want Hair Dare You Rituals to become a trusted companion in every individual’s self-care journey.”
Guests at the launch experienced the Hair Dare You Rituals collection first hand through immersive product displays and interactive experiences that showcased the brand‘s philosophy of making holistic hair care effortless, enjoyable, and effective.
With increasing consumer awareness around preventive beauty, scalp health, and wellness-led self-care, Hair Dare You Rituals enters the market with a refreshing perspective – encouraging consumers to move beyond quick fixes and embrace simple rituals that deliver lasting results.
The brand is committed to creating premium hair care solutions rooted in quality, authenticity, and transparency, empowering consumers to build healthier, stronger hair through consistent care rather than complicated routines.
22, Jun 2026
Ambuja Cements Enters Partnership with Leilac for Green Cement Development
June 22: Ambuja Cements has partnered with UK-based Leilac to develop and scale up commercial solutions for low-carbon cement production, marking a key step toward reducing emissions in one of the world’s most carbon-intensive industries.
The collaboration aims to advance carbon capture and reduction technologies that can be integrated into cement manufacturing processes. The focus is on enabling scalable solutions that support large-scale deployment of cleaner production methods in the future.
Cement production is a major contributor to industrial carbon emissions, and the partnership reflects growing efforts within the sector to adopt more sustainable practices without compromising production efficiency or quality.
Under the initiative, the two companies will work together on developing technologies designed to capture and reduce carbon emissions during the manufacturing process, with an emphasis on commercial viability and industrial-scale application.
The move aligns with the global transition toward greener industrial operations and highlights increasing industry participation in climate-conscious innovation and decarbonisation efforts.
Experts note that such collaborations are becoming more important as companies face rising pressure from regulators, investors, and consumers to reduce environmental impact while maintaining competitiveness.
The partnership is expected to support long-term advancements in sustainable cement production and contribute to broader climate goals across the construction and infrastructure sectors.
22, Jun 2026
Operational Efficiency Priority for 78 pc of MSMEs: Report
June 22: A recent industry report highlights that operational efficiency has become a key focus area for 78% of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), reflecting a broader shift toward productivity improvement, cost management, and sustainable growth across the sector.
The findings indicate that MSMEs are increasingly working to streamline operations, improve workflow systems, and adopt digital tools to enhance overall efficiency. This shift is being driven by rising competition, evolving customer expectations, and the need to maintain profitability in a rapidly changing business environment.
The report notes that many enterprises are investing in technology-led solutions, automation, and process optimisation to reduce inefficiencies and strengthen output. In addition, a growing number of MSMEs are focusing on workforce training and better resource allocation to improve long-term performance.
Experts say the focus on operational efficiency reflects a wider transformation within the MSME ecosystem, as businesses adapt to digitalisation and changing market dynamics.
The study also highlights that improved efficiency is helping MSMEs reduce costs, scale operations, expand market access, and enhance competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.
Industry observers believe that continued emphasis on efficiency and innovation will play a crucial role in strengthening the resilience and growth prospects of the MSME sector.
