8, Aug 2026
EuroWeb: From Ancient Threads to Digital Platforms
Aug 8: Every piece of fabric has a story to tell. The colours, patterns and weaves of each piece reveal centuries of craft, trade and cultural exchange. Some of these stories are hidden in the mineralised textiles of Pompeii, while others lie in the ancient silk routes that once connected Asia and Europe, or in the wool and dyes that clothed everyone from kings to ordinary people.
The COST Action Europe Through Textiles: Network for an integrated and interdisciplinary Humanities connected people studying these stories. From archaeologists and conservators to fashion historians and textile artists, EuroWeb created a network where knowledge could travel as freely as fabrics once did.
Rediscovering Europe through textiles
Through conferences, workshops and training schools, the Action demonstrated that textiles had a significant impact on nearly all aspects of European history. Researchers gathered in Pompeii to learn how to handle and document fragile, mineralised textiles. They explored the influence of Asian textiles on European industry between 1200 and 1900. In their sessions on Textiles and the Dead, they investigated what burial cloths can reveal about ancient beliefs. The Sailing Textiles conference examined the role of textiles in navigation and trade, while a training school on knitting, knitwear and wool revisited these long-standing European traditions. Another training school, Dyeing with Natural Dyes, demonstrated how traditional techniques can inspire sustainable practices today.
EuroWeb was also showcased at the Festival of the New European Bauhaus in Brussels, where it organised a hands-on LAB event as part of the Fair section. This participation helped highlight the Action’s alignment with the New European Bauhaus values of sustainability, creativity and inclusivity.
Every event revealed new insights, showing how textiles can serve both as evidence of the past and as a source of inspiration for the future.
Did you know?
- Some of the oldest textiles still carry traces of Tyrian purple, a dye made from Mediterranean sea snails. In Roman times, it was so costly that only emperors could afford it
- In medieval Europe, the kermes insect gave wool a deep red shade prized by nobility
- Long before metal or pottery, textiles were Europe’s first great innovation, shaping clothing, trade, identity, and communication
How textile heritage is weaving the future
Led by Dr Agata Ulanowska from the University of Warsaw, the project developed open digital platforms that continue to evolve long after its conclusion.
“EuroWeb generated a substantial body of new knowledge and approaches, as evidenced by more than 50 peer-reviewed publications,” said Dr Ulanowska. “It also developed several open-access infrastructures that remain active and continue to grow.”
The Digital Atlas of European Textile Heritage, for example, is a unique repository that already documents thousands of textiles, tools, seals, workshops and archaeological sites. This interactive platform visualises the many layers of Europe’s textile heritage throughout history.
Another useful resource is the Textile and Clothing Terminology Online platform, which compiles rich vocabularies relating to fabrics and garments in ancient and modern languages. Through language, it highlights how much of Europe’s textile heritage is shared and rooted in centuries of cultural exchange. It is also a valuable research tool, facilitating understanding between scholars and craftspeople from different countries.
EuroWeb also ensured that this knowledge reached beyond academia. The Action’s website and YouTube channel host publications, lectures, and training materials, making this facet of European cultural heritage widely accessible and already used as an educational and outreach resource.
Watch the video: Textile workshop: EuroWeb Training School at Malia
“These resources are widely used and continue to attract interest from professionals and the general public,” said Agata Ulanowska proudly.
Heritage meets sustainability
Building on EuroWeb’s foundations, the COST Innovators Grant HERITEX-HUB, led by Dr Francisco B. Gomes of the University of Lisbon is transforming historical knowledge into a valuable resource for a more sustainable textile and fashion industry.
“The opportunities that COST provides for training, leadership, and collaboration are truly transformative.” Dr Francisco B. Gomes, Chair of HERITEX-HUB
According to Dr Gomes: “Making textile heritage visible can inspire innovation. By showcasing sustainable practices from the past, we give today’s makers tools to develop greener approaches in a competitive market.”
“EuroWeb acted as an incubator for projects that address sustainability and heritage preservation directly,” said Francisco Gomes. “HERITEX-HUB draws data, knowledge, and inspiration from textile heritage research for more sustainable textile and fashion futures, bridging academic insight with policy and industry needs.”
HERITEX-HUB has connected researchers, designers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. It has offered practical resources such as factsheets on natural materials and traditional techniques, storyboards to inspire creative design, and the Digital Atlas of European Textile Heritage, mapping sustainable textile know-how across Europe.
“The network is also developing a matchmaking platform to connect local crafts and modern production chains, promoting sustainability from the ground up”, explained Francisco. “At a time when people are growing increasingly aware of the negative impact of how we consume textiles and fashion, historic and traditional examples can show that there are alternatives.”
Did you know that in 2020 textile consumption per person in the EU required on average:
- 400 m² of land
- 9 m3 of water
- 391 kg of raw materials
- Caused a carbon footprint of 270 kg
Empowering people through collaboration
For both Agata Ulanowska and Francisco Gomes, the impact of COST extended far beyond research outcomes.
“EuroWeb raised awareness of COST Actions at my university, showing how impactful they can be.” Dr Agata Ulanowska, Chair of EuroWeb“Participating in EuroWeb was a great, though occasionally exhausting, experience that has significantly advanced my career,” said Agata. “I gained international recognition and met fantastic colleagues with whom I now collaborate. EuroWeb also raised awareness of COST Actions at my university, showing how impactful they can be.”
“I joined EuroWeb as a young postdoctoral researcher and will leave HERITEX-HUB as a consolidated researcher with a permanent position,” added Francisco. “The opportunities that COST provides for training, leadership, and collaboration are truly transformative.”
A shared European fabric
Every fabric holds a story. Thanks to the COST Action EuroWeb and the COST Innovators Grant HERITEX-HUB, those stories continue to inspire new ideas, sustainable practices, and a shared sense of European identity.
From studying mineralised textiles in Pompeii to building digital platforms for future generations, these two COST projects have shown that Europe’s textile heritage is not a relic of the past but a living resource.
“The results from EuroWeb, and in part also from HERITEX-HUB, have been tremendously beneficial for textile heritage researchers and a much wider range of stakeholders,” concluded Dr Gomes. “We hope that making knowledge about textile heritage more accessible will empower people and offer them tools to make informed, sustainable choices.”
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- By Neel Achary
8, Aug 2026
Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Announces Q1 FY27 Financial Results for Quarter Ended June 2026
Mumbai, Aug 08: Dalmia Bharat Sugar and Industries Limited announced its unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended 30th June’ 26. Salient features of the financial results are as under:
Key Highlights
- Revenue from operations for the quarter Rs. 848 Cr.
- Sugar sales stood at 1.3 LMT for the quarter.
- Company delivered an average sugar NSR of Rs. 40.6/kg.
- Distillery volume stood at 4.3 Cr Ltr.
- Long term credit rating reaffirmed at CARE AA+; Stable.
- Short term credit rating reaffirmed at CARE A1+.
Higher sugarcane prices in the last sugar season increased opening inventory costs. Better sugar prices partly offset these challenges. Despite these headwinds, the Company reported revenue of Rs. 848 crore and EBITDA of Rs. 71 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2026.
Sugar NSR improved from an average of Rs 39.9/kg in Q1 FY 2025–26 to Rs 40.6/kg in Q1 FY 2026–27. Sugar NSR in July month is prevailing in the range of Rs 43–44/kg.
Key Financials
Sugar Segment Overview
- Sugar segment profitability was impacted due to higher cane prices and lower sales volume which is partially off-set by improved NSR Vs LY.
- Sugar inventory as on 30th June 2026 stood at 2.36 Lac MT valued @ Rs. 36.9/Kg.
Distillery Segment Overview
Project Updates
- Ongoing CBG (Bio-CNG) Project at Kolhapur is tracking well within the targeted timelines of Nov-26 for commencement of its operations.
- Tanzania Project was approved on July 14, 2026, comprises of development of 10000 Ha sugarcane plantation and the establishment of a manufacturing unit with Sugar manufacturing capacity of ~70,000 MT together with a 20 MW cogeneration facility, with an estimated project cost of US$132 million. Over the medium to long term, this project is expandable to 20000 Ha plantation and 150000 MT sugar production capacity. The Company intends to progressively transform the integrated complex into a diversified bio-energy platform by maximizing the utilization of all by-products through commercially viable and environmentally sustainable value-added initiatives.
- The Board has approved, project of conversion of existing Cane distillery in Ramgarh to Dual feed 100 KLPD distillery with project cost of Rs 49 Cr and expected commissioning by April, 2027.
Regulatory
- For sugar season 2026-27, the FRP has been increased from Rs. 355/Qtl to Rs.365/Qtl at a basic recovery of 10.25%.
Outlook
- Lower sale volume in Q1 has resulted in stock accumulation at the quarter end, hence Q1 lower sales shall be recovered in upcoming quarters in FY 2026-27.
- Sugar NSR in July month is prevailing in the range of Rs 43–44/kg. With steady domestic demand and a balanced supply position, sugar prices are expected to remain firm in the near term.
- The Company presently expects a healthy sugarcane crop in the upcoming season. However, the actual crop outlook will depend on weather conditions, including the impact of El Niño and other Agro-climatic factors.
7, Aug 2026
Vijay Chintakayala Salutes India’s Handloom Tradition with Special Gift to Prime Minister Modi
New Delhi, August 7, 2026
On a day dedicated to celebrating India’s rich handloom tradition, Andhra Pradesh’s renowned Mangalagiri handloom found a place at the country’s highest political office as Rajya Sabha MP Vijay Chintakayala presented a traditional handwoven shawl to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of National Handloom Day. Nitin Nabin, National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party and other senior leaders were also present during the interaction.
The gesture resonated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Handloom Day message, in which he paid tribute to India’s weavers and artisans and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to strengthening the handloom sector as a driver of rural empowerment, women-led development, and the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
By presenting the Prime Minister with a Mangalagiri handloom shawl, Vijay Chintakayala turned the national celebration into an opportunity to showcase one of Andhra Pradesh’s most celebrated traditional weaves before the country’s leadership.
Known for its distinctive craftsmanship and Geographical Indication (GI) status, Mangalagiri handloom represents generations of skilled artisans whose work continues to preserve one of India’s oldest weaving traditions.
The gesture also reflects the Andhra Pradesh government’s continued focus on promoting indigenous handlooms under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Through initiatives aimed at improving financial security, market access, and recognition for artisans, the government has sought to strengthen the handloom sector while preserving its cultural legacy.
Speaking after the interaction, Vijay Chintakayala said, “Presenting the Mangalagiri handloom shawl to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on National Handloom Day was a tribute to every weaver whose craftsmanship keeps our heritage alive. This recognition belongs to the artisan community of Andhra Pradesh.”
The gesture also reflects the continued efforts of Shri Nara Lokesh, Minister for Information Technology and MLA from Mangalagiri, who has been promoting Mangalagiri handlooms through initiatives such as the Nethannaku Seva scheme, which provides ₹25,000 in annual financial assistance to handloom weaver families, the establishment of a dedicated weavers’ school, and sustained efforts to preserve and promote the region’s rich weaving heritage.
As India celebrated National Handloom Day, the traditional shawl from Mangalagiri carried a message beyond protocol: every handwoven fabric represents the skill, perseverance, and cultural identity of the artisans who create it, and their work deserves recognition on the nation’s biggest platforms.
7, Aug 2026
India recycles nearly 60 per cent of the plastics it consumes, placing the country among the global leaders in plastic recycling: Plastindia Foundation
Hyderabad, Aug 07: Calling the plastics and polymers sector a “salient engine of India’s economic growth,” Telangana Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries & Commerce D. Sridhar Babu appealed to industry stakeholders to join hands with the government in making Telangana a leading hub for plastics and polymer manufacturing.
The Minister inaugurated HIPLEX 2026, South & Central India’s largest plastics exhibition and India’s third-largest plastics expo, at the HITEX Exhibition Centre on Friday.
The four-day international exhibition, organised by the Telangana and Andhra Plastics Manufacturers Association (TAAPMA), features over 550 exhibitors and is expected to attract more than 55,000 business visitors from India and abroad.
Addressing a gathering of over 500 industry leaders, entrepreneurs and exhibitors, the Minister said the exhibition represents much more than machines and products.
Everyone presents here has experienced plastics in one form or another throughout life’s journey. This exhibition is not merely about products and machinery. It reflects dreams, entrepreneurship, innovation and the courage to invest in the future, he said.
He said almost every manufacturing sector today depends on plastics and polymers in some form.
“The plastics and polymers industry is a salient engine of India’s economic growth. It provides direct employment to nearly 50 lakh people and indirect employment to over one crore. In Telangana alone, nearly two lakh families depend on this industry for their livelihood.”
He observed that as manufacturing grows, industries expand, employment increases and the country’s economy prosper.
Referring to the challenges faced by the sector, the Minister said the industry has successfully navigated geopolitical uncertainties, volatile crude oil prices, fluctuating polymer prices, logistics disruptions, energy challenges and labour shortages.
“Industries are not built in easy times. They are built in difficult times. Your resilience has made you stronger than ever.”, he added.
Assuring continued government support, he said: “The Telangana Government is your partner in progress. Your success is our success. Whenever policy intervention is required for the betterment of the industry, the Government will stand with you.”
Highlighting Telangana’s industrial growth story, the Minister said the State has already established itself as a leader in IT, ITeS, Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), Defence and Aerospace.
“We now want to replicate the same success in the plastics and polymers sector. The future belongs to industries that innovate responsibly, embrace sustainability and adopt green manufacturing practices. Let us together make Telangana the preferred destination for plastics and polymer manufacturing.”
The Minister also released the HIPLEX 2026 Show Directory.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raju Desai, President, Plastindia Foundation, said India’s plastics industry has grown into a ₹4.5 lakh crore industry, expanding at 6-9 per cent annually, with similar growth expected through 2031.
The industry today employs nearly 55 lakh people, while exports are expected to cross ₹1.4 lakh crore this year.
He said India recycles nearly 60 per cent of the plastics it consumes, placing the country among the global leaders in plastic recycling.
Dr. Desai noted that packaging continues to account for nearly half of the industry’s demand, while healthcare, pharmaceuticals and medical devices are among the fastest-growing segments. The automotive sector, driven by lightweight materials and electric vehicles, contributes around 15 per cent of consumption.
Arvind Mehta, Chairman, Governing Council, All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA), said the industry must now focus on four strategic priorities—exports, technology adoption, skill development and sustainability.
He observed that India has enormous potential to significantly expand exports of plastic products and become a stronger global manufacturing base.
Anil Reddy Vennam, Senior Vice President, AIPMA, appealed to the Governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to establish a dedicated Plastics Park with world-class infrastructure that would enable MSMEs to set up manufacturing units.
He also requested the allocation of 250 acres for a Recycling Cluster with a Common Effluent Treatment Plant.
He urged both State Governments to encourage investments in infrastructure, water management, packaging and medical plastics, with the goal of increasing plastics consumption in the two States to two million tonnes by 2030 and raising their share in the national market to over 8 per cent.
He said HIPLEX has been provided with a dedicated 2 MW power supply to enable exhibitors to conduct live demonstrations of advanced processing machinery, recycling systems, bio-polymers and next-generation polymer technologies.
Narendra Baldwa, President, TAAPMA, said the 55-year-old association, representing more than 1,000 members, has consistently promoted technology, innovation and sustainability in the plastics sector.
Meela Jayadev, Convener, HIPLEX 2026, said plastics have become indispensable to modern life.
“From a pin to an aeroplane, plastics are everywhere. The real question is not whether plastics should exist, but how responsibly they should be produced, used and recycled.”
He noted that India’s per capita plastic consumption is around 7 kg, compared with 24 kg in China, indicating tremendous growth potential.
One of the biggest attractions at HIPLEX 2026 is the Dedicated Recycling Pavilion, where visitors can witness how discarded plastics are transformed into high-value products such as roads, railway sleepers, furniture, construction materials and even garments.
The exhibition also features live machinery demonstrations, technical conferences, knowledge sessions and business networking events covering emerging raw materials, recycling technologies, sustainability, automation and future manufacturing trends.
HIPLEX 2026 is spread across seven exhibition halls covering over 26,000 square metres and will remain open to visitors until August 10, from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm each day.
7, Aug 2026
Rubystone Hospitality Partners with JYKIM to Elevate Premium Hospitality Experience in Saharanpur
Aug 07: Rubystone Hospitality has officially associated with JYKIM for the management and operations of its premium hospitality property, marking a significant step towards delivering elevated guest experiences and world-class hospitality services. This strategic collaboration reflects Rubystone Hospitality’s commitment to managing premium properties with excellence, innovation, and exceptional service standards.
Heaven Wood Exxotica, a Saharanpur property, features 69 well-appointed rooms, designed to provide guests with maximum comfort and convenience. It is also home to one of the largest swimming pools in the region, complemented by modern amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Surrounded by scenic beauty and offering spacious event venues, the property is an ideal destination for destination weddings, family celebrations, corporate events, and relaxing vacations.
Through this partnership, guests can expect personalized services, premium hospitality, and memorable experiences that blend comfort with luxury. The collaboration aims to enhance the property’s operational excellence while creating a welcoming environment for every visitor.
Under the leadership of Mr. Yashraj, Managing Director of JYKIM and Mehardeep Singh, Director Aquisitions & Development, Rubystone Hospitality, this collaboration with Rubystone Hospitality marks another important milestone in strengthening hospitality operations. Together, the two organizations are committed to setting new benchmarks in guest satisfaction and delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
7, Aug 2026
Indian Army Ice Hockey Team crowned champions of the Inaugural Royal Enfield Challengers’ Cup
Leh, Ladakh; Aug 07: The inaugural Royal Enfield Challengers‘ Cup delivered a fitting finale as the Indian Army Ice Hockey Team survived a stirring challenge from Leh Kings, securing a 6-5 victory to lift the tournament’s first-ever title at the Nawang Dorjay Stobdan (NDS) Stadium in Leh.
Representing the best emerging talent from the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League, Leh Kings matched the nation’s most accomplished Ice Hockey team stride for stride in a breathtaking contest before eventually falling to a late winner, underlining the strength of the developmental pathway created under the Royal Enfield Social Mission. Padma Namgail struck the decisive goal in the closing moments, finishing off a pass from Phuntsog Namgail to cap a pulsating final played before a packed crowd.
Leh Kings made the brighter start, with Tsering Angchuk opening the scoring after converting Mushtaque Ahmad Giri’s precise assist. The Indian Army Ice Hockey Team responded almost immediately as Dorjay Angchuk restored parity from Phuntsog Namgail’s pass before Jigmath Kunzang scored another for the institutional side, converting Padma Namgail’s assist for a 2-1 lead, placing them ahead for the first time by the end of the opening period.
They stretched their advantage early in the second period when Rigzin Norboo finished off a move created by Stanzin Namgail to make it 3-1. Leh Kings, however, refused to back down. Inspired by Stanzin Angchok, who struck twice in quick succession with assists from Stanzin Lotus and Mushtaque Ahmad Giri, the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League side battled back to draw level at 3-3.
Rigzin Norboo restored the Indian Army Ice Hockey Team‘s lead with his second goal of the evening, only for Leh Kings to respond once again as Chamba Tsetan converted Tsering Angchuk’s assist to send the teams into the final period locked at 4-4.
Leh Kings completed a remarkable turnaround just 60 seconds into the third period as Stanzin Angchok completed a superb hat-trick to put his side 5-4 ahead. With their unbeaten record under threat, the title winners demonstrated the composure that has made them India‘s benchmark in Ice Hockey. Jigmath Kunzang levelled the contest with his second goal of the night before Padma Namgail, assisted by Phuntsog Namgail, struck the decisive winner to seal a pulsating 6-5 victory and the inaugural Royal Enfield Challengers‘ Cup title.
The tournament’s individual honours reflected the quality on display throughout the week. The Indian Army Ice Hockey Team’s goalkeeper Sonam Tsetan was named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament following a series of commanding performances, while Leh Kings forward Tsering Angchuk earned the Best Player of the Tournament award after an outstanding campaign.
The final perfectly validated the vision behind the Royal Enfield Challengers‘ Cup. Conceived as a competitive bridge between grassroots development and elite competition, the tournament gave the best players emerging from the Royal Enfield Social Mission’s developmental leagues an opportunity to test themselves against India‘s strongest institutional teams. Leh Kings’ fearless performance against the eventual champions demonstrated just how rapidly the sport’s next generation is developing in the Himalayas.
The tournament, organised as part of the Royal Enfield Social Mission in collaboration with the Ice Hockey Association of Ladakh and the Ice Hockey Association of Lahaul & Spiti, brought together five teams competing in a round-robin format, with the top two advancing to the final. Leh Kings, Kargil Warriors and Spiti Titans were joined by the Indian Army Ice Hockey Team and the Central Ice Hockey Team of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
Vigyat Singh, Director at Eicher Group Foundation, said, “When we started this journey, Ice Hockey in the Himalayas was largely a winter pursuit. Today, the Challengers‘ Cup taking place in August at Leh’s all-season artificial ice rink is a testament to how far the ecosystem has come. It is the coaches who train through the year, the referees who uphold the standards of the game, and the young athletes who show up every day to get better. Seeing these players go toe to toe with some of the best teams in the country reinforces why continued training and increased competitive exposure are so vital. This tournament is a celebration of that collective effort, and a reminder that building a sustainable sporting ecosystem is a long-term commitment we remain deeply invested in.”
Beyond the matches themselves, the three regional teams also participated in dedicated on-ice training sessions from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM each day between August 1 and August 4, working alongside experienced coaches to sharpen their technical skills and tactical understanding throughout the tournament.
Tsewang Namgyal, Captain of the Indian Army Ice Hockey Team, said, “For us, playing in front of large crowds is something we are used to. But for the young players from Ladakh and Spiti, this kind of exposure can be life-changing. Holding the Challengers‘ Cup during the peak tourism season meant these emerging athletes could showcase their talent to thousands of spectators, many of whom were watching Ice Hockey for the first time. That kind of visibility matters. It gives these players recognition, it brings attention to their journey, and it shows the world what Indian Ice Hockey is building in the Himalayas. Every team in this tournament, including ours, benefited from the energy that this timing and this stage created.”
Designed as a new platform under the Royal Enfield Social Mission, the Challengers‘ Cup gave emerging athletes from the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League and Spiti Cup their first opportunity to test themselves against the country’s top institutional teams. Competing as the Leh Kings, Kargil Warriors, and Spiti Titans, these local players gained critical exposure to elite competition.
Hosted at Leh’s newly upgraded all-season artificial ice rink, the inaugural tournament marked a major milestone for Himalayan ice hockey. Held during peak summer, the six-day event drew over 15,000 spectators—introducing competitive ice hockey to global and domestic visitors for the first time while demonstrating how modern infrastructure can expand the sport beyond its traditional winter season.
Alongside the regional leagues, the tournament strengthens the player pathway and reflects Royal Enfield’s commitment—alongside the Ice Hockey Associations of Ladakh and Lahaul & Spiti—to building a sustainable, community-led sports ecosystem across the region.
7, Aug 2026
PayMe India Marks a Decade of Digital Lending, Celebrates 10th Foundation Day
Noida, Aug 7: PayMe India, one of the country’s fastest-growing fintech brands, celebrates its 10th Foundation Day, marking a decade of redefining digital lending through innovation, trust, and technology.
Founded in 2016, PayMe began its journey as a Lending Service Provider with a simple conviction: that access to credit in India should be quick, transparent, and built for the digital-first customer. Over ten years, that conviction has grown into an integrated fintech ecosystem. In 2018, the company expanded its capabilities with an RBI-registered NBFC, now operating as ScaleUp Financial Services Pvt. Ltd., while the proprietary software, AI-driven innovations, and technology backbone powering the platform are developed by Huey Tech Limited. Together, PayMe, ScaleUp, Credit Assist and Huey Tech form a single, tightly integrated ecosystem built to make financial services smarter, faster, and more accessible.
Across the decade, PayMe India has achieved more than ₹2,100 crore in total loan disbursals since inception and served millions of customers across the country through a seamless digital lending platform. What began with personal loans has since expanded into a broader suite of offerings, including Loan Against Property and the newly launched Credit Assist platform.
“Ten years ago, we set out to make credit work for the everyday Indian, not the other way around,” said Mahesh Shukla, CEO and Co-Founder of PayMe India. “This milestone belongs to the millions of customers who trusted us, and to the teams across PayMe, ScaleUp, and Huey Tech who built the technology that makes financial access effortless. As we enter our next decade, our focus is clear: to move from helping people borrow to helping people build lasting financial health.”
Reinforcing that focus, PayMe India recently launched Credit Assist, an AI-powered credit intelligence platform that helps users understand, improve, and build their credit health. The app addresses a persistent gap in the market, the widespread lack of awareness around credit, by giving users real-time credit insights, personalized recommendations, AI-driven guidance, and instant loan eligibility checks, all in one place.
Credit Assist is designed for individuals aged 18 and above who want to build, improve, or maintain a healthy credit score, including first-time borrowers and existing credit users. It sets itself apart through four distinctive capabilities: Personalized Video Guidance tailored to each user’s credit behavior; Cleo, an AI chatbot offering instant answers to credit-related queries; an Agentic AI Credit Manager that continuously monitors credit, identifies risks, and recommends corrective actions; and a single dashboard to manage Bills, Utilities, and Assets. The app is available on both Android and iOS, launching first for the Indian market with plans to expand globally in later stages.
PayMe India’s decade of growth has been accompanied by industry recognition, including the Times Business Awards North 2026 for Excellence in New Gen FinTech, the Great Indian BFSI & FinTech Awards 2026, and the Best Brands Award by ET Now.
Looking ahead, PayMe India is also preparing to launch a startup pitching and investment programme built exclusively for Uttar Pradesh’s founders. Streamed digital-first on YouTube and social media rather than television, the initiative will bring founders face-to-face with a panel of investors, including Mahesh Shukla alongside external investors, to negotiate live funding deals in equity, debt, or a mix of both, drawn from a total fund pool of USD 1 million. The programme is slated for a tentative launch in November 2026, extending PayMe India’s mission from individual financial empowerment to backing the entrepreneurs shaping the state’s economy.
7, Aug 2026
XElectron Announces Exciting Offers on Smart Projectors and Portable Monitors During Amazon Great Freedom Sale 2026 and Flipkart Freedom Sale
New Delhi, Aug 07: XElectron, one of India’s fastest-growing homegrown consumer electronics brands, has announced exclusive offers across its innovative portfolio of smart projectors and portable monitors during ongoing Amazon Great Freedom Sale 2026 and Flipkart Freedom Sale. The special offers bring advanced entertainment, productivity, and gaming solutions closer to consumers with attractive price benefits on feature-rich devices.
Commenting on the sale, Mr. Gagan Sharma, Managing Director, XElectron, said, “The Amazon Great Freedom Sale and the Flipkart Freedom Sale provide an excellent opportunity for consumers to upgrade their digital lifestyle with advanced technology at attractive prices. At XElectron, we continue to focus on delivering innovative, reliable and affordable smart technology solutions for Indian consumers. Our latest range of projectors and portable monitors is designed to enhance home entertainment, professional productivity and gaming experiences.”
Specifications and Features
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XElectron Techno Android 14 Smart Home Theater Movie HD Projector
The XElectron Techno Android 14 Smart Home Theater Projector delivers an immersive cinematic experience with support for Full HD 1080p and 4K content. Featuring an in-built speaker, electric focus, auto focus adjustment and 4D Keystone correction, it ensures hassle-free setup. With built-in apps, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and screen mirroring support, users can enjoy seamless entertainment at home.
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XElectron Techno Plus Android 14 Smart Home Theater Movie Full HD Projector
Designed for premium home entertainment, the XElectron Techno Plus Android 14 Projector offers Full HD visuals with 4K support. Its rotatable design, electric focus, auto and 4D Keystone correction deliver flexible viewing options. Equipped with built-in apps, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, screen mirroring and an integrated speaker, it provides a complete smart theatre experience.
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XElectron PocketBeam Android 13 Portable Smart Projector
Built for entertainment on the move, the XElectron PocketBeam Smart Projector features Android 13 with support for popular OTT applications including Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube. It delivers 1080p resolution, 6000 lumens brightness and supports up to a 150-inch display. With a built-in battery offering up to two hours of playback, Miracast, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity, it is ideal for portable home cinema experiences.
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XElectron Luminex Certified OS Smart Home Projector
The XElectron Luminex Certified OS Smart Home Projector brings an immersive theatre-like experience with official OTT certification, native 1080p resolution and 4K support. Featuring 16,000 lumens brightness, ARC support, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, it delivers vivid visuals on screens up to 250 inches. Its certified operating system ensures smooth access to premium streaming platforms.
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XElectron New iProjector 1 Plus Smart Home Projector
Powered by Official Google TV, the XElectron New iProjector 1 Plus combines smart entertainment with advanced projection technology. Featuring native 1080p resolution, 4K Ultra HD support, 2500 ANSI brightness, auto focus and 4D Keystone correction, it delivers sharp visuals with effortless setup. HDMI ARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and screen mirroring further enhance connectivity.
XElectron iProjector 2 Plus Auto Focus Smart Home Projector
The XElectron iProjector 2 Plus is designed for users seeking a premium smart entertainment experience. Featuring native 1080p Full HD resolution with 4K support, Android 12, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, it delivers smooth performance. With 20,000 lumens brightness and 2GB RAM + 32GB storage, it ensures immersive viewing and seamless multitasking.
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XElectron iProjector 3 Plus Smart Home Projector
The flagship XElectron iProjector 3 Plus offers an advanced home theatre experience with Official Google TV, native 1080p resolution and 4K Ultra HD support. Featuring 2500 ANSI brightness, dust-proof design, auto focus, 4D Keystone correction, HDMI ARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and screen mirroring, it is designed for premium entertainment and professional applications.
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ARZOPA Portable Monitor Range
The ultra-slim ARZOPA 14-inch Portable Monitor is designed for professionals, students and travellers looking for an efficient second screen solution. Featuring Full HD 1080p resolution, dual speakers and an integrated kickstand, it supports laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles and tablets through USB-C and HDMI connectivity, enabling flexible work and entertainment anywhere.
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ARZOPA 16.1 Inch FHD 1080P Portable Monitor
Featuring a 16.1-inch IPS Full HD display, the ARZOPA Portable Monitor delivers vibrant visuals with eye-care technology for comfortable extended usage. Its built-in kickstand, speakers and USB-C and HDMI connectivity make it compatible with laptops, MacBooks, mobile devices and gaming consoles, offering enhanced productivity and entertainment flexibility.
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ARZOPA 16.1-inch 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor
Designed for gaming enthusiasts, the ARZOPA 16.1-inch 144Hz Portable Monitor features a high refresh rate, HDR support and 106% sRGB colour accuracy for immersive visuals. The Full HD IPS display ensures smooth gameplay, while its slim design, built-in speakers and USB-C/HDMI connectivity make it suitable for gaming consoles, laptops and mobile devices.
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ARZOPA Z3FC 16.1-inch 180Hz 2.5K Portable Gaming Monitor
The ARZOPA Z3FC delivers a premium gaming and creative experience with a 2.5K resolution display, 180Hz refresh rate and 106% sRGB colour gamut. Designed for gamers and professionals, it features an adjustable stand and supports seamless connectivity with laptops, MacBooks, Xbox, PlayStation and other compatible devices.
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ARZOPA 17.3-inch Portable Monitor
The ARZOPA 17.3-inch Portable Monitor offers a larger viewing experience with Full HD resolution and 103% sRGB colour coverage. Featuring an IPS display, built-in kickstand, integrated speakers and USB-C/HDMI connectivity, it is ideal for professionals, designers, gamers and multimedia users seeking a powerful portable display solution.
7, Aug 2026
Saare Jahan Se Accha – Vande Mataram: Bharat Ki Virasat, Bharat Ka Garv
India is a civilization woven together by countless traditions, languages, philosophies, and artistic expressions that have flourished through the ages. At the heart of this rich heritage lies an abiding spirit of unity, resilience, and devotion to the motherland. The 21st edition of Saare Jahan Se Accha celebrates this enduring spirit through its theme, “Vande Mataram: Bharat Ki Virasat, Bharat Ka Garv.”
More than a patriotic expression, Vande Mataram embodies reverence for the land that nurtures us, inspires us, and binds us together as one people. The theme, “Vande Mataram:Bharat Ki Virasat, Bharat Ka Garv,” celebrates the nation’s magnificent cultural inheritance and the immense pride it inspires in every Indian. Through the timeless mediums of Indian classical dance and music, the festival seeks to honour India’s glorious past, celebrate its vibrant present, and inspire confidence in its future.
Saare Jahan Se Accha which was conceived in 2005 by Padmashree and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Guru Ranjana Gauhar as a heartfelt artistic tribute to India’s Independence, it has emerged from her vision to celebrate the soul of the nation through the transformative power of culture. Over the past two decades, the festival has evolved into a prestigious and internationally admired cultural platform, bringing together legendary maestros, distinguished performers, emerging talent, and lovers of the arts from across the country and abroad.
A distinctive feature of the festival has been its tradition of honouring eminent artists and cultural luminaries whose lifelong dedication has enriched India’s artistic heritage and strengthened its cultural fabric.
Over the years, Saare Jahan Se Accha has paid tribute to some of the nation’s most celebrated maestros, including Padma Vibhushan and former Rajya Sabha Member Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Padma Vibhushan and Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow Smt. Saroja Vaidyanathan, Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Smt. Shovana Narayan, Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Smt. Madhavi Mudgal, Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Smt. Geeta Chandran, Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Smt. Geeta Mahalik, and Padma Shri Ustad Wasifuddin Dagar, among many other distinguished personalities. Through these honours, the festival acknowledges their invaluable contributions to Indian art and culture while inspiring future generations to uphold and carry forward the nation’s rich artistic legacy.
As one of India’s foremost exponents of Odissi dance and a tireless cultural ambassador, Guru Ranjana Gauhar has dedicated her life to preserving, nurturing, and promoting India’s artistic traditions on both national and international stages. Under her inspiring guidance, the festival continues to uphold artistic excellence while fostering innovation, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue within the classical arts community.
The festival will present artistic interpretations that highlight the values and ideals that define the Indian ethos—unity in diversity, courage, compassion, sacrifice, spiritual wisdom, and cultural continuity. Each performance will serve as an artistic offering to the nation, reflecting the beauty, strength, and richness of India’s civilizational legacy.
As India continues to emerge as a beacon of cultural and spiritual leadership on the global stage, Saare Jahan Se Accha reaffirms the vital role of the arts in preserving national identity and fostering collective pride. Through this landmark 21st edition, the festival invites audiences to celebrate the spirit of India and experience the transformative power of its classical traditions.
Rooted in the vision of Guru Ranjana Gauhar, the festival stands as a tribute to the nation’s artistic heritage and a reminder that culture remains one of the strongest threads uniting the people of India. Through “Vande Mataram: Bharat Ki Virasat, Bharat Ka Garv,” the festival offers a heartfelt salutation to Bharat—its people, its traditions, its artists, and its timeless soul.
7, Aug 2026
Offshore gas platform proves green hydrogen can be produced using existing infrastructure
The Hague, the Netherlands, Aug 07 – Just 13 kilometres off the coast of Scheveningen, a Dutch pilot project is demonstrating a promising way to repurpose the vast network of offshore oil and gas infrastructure around the world. As part of the energy transition, green hydrogen has, for the first time, been successfully produced on an operational offshore gas platform while natural gas production continued simultaneously. The pilot, known as PosHYdon, is being carried out on the operational Q13a-A platform.
The achievement by the PosHYdon project demonstrates that the infrastructure built for the gas industry could one day be repurposed for a new role: producing and transporting green hydrogen using offshore wind energy. As countries expand offshore wind capacity, one question is becoming increasingly important: how can that renewable energy be transported efficiently to where it is needed?
One possible answer, instead of bringing all electricity ashore through subsea cables, renewable electricity generated by offshore wind can be used directly at sea to produce green hydrogen. The hydrogen can then be transported through offshore pipelines, many of which already exist as part of the North Sea’s extensive gas network.
This successful proof of concept shows that offshore platforms, once their gas production ends, could potentially be repurposed for hydrogen production. In the future, the same offshore pipeline network that currently transports natural gas could also be used to transport hydrogen, reducing the need for entirely new infrastructure.
The quantities of hydrogen currently produced are deliberately small and therefor not used yet. At this moment the purpose of PosHYdon is to demonstrate that the technology works safely and reliably under real offshore conditions and to collect the operational data needed for future large-scale projects.
Over the coming months, TNO and the project partners will analyse the results and findings from the pilot and present them to Stientje van Veldhoven-van der Meer, Minister of Climate and Green Growth in Q4. Those results will help determine the next steps towards scaling up offshore hydrogen production and accelerating the reuse of existing North Sea infrastructure.
PosHYdon is an initiative of DEME, EBN, Eneco, Emerson, Gasunie, Hatenboerwater, Investa Expertise Centrum, Iv, Nel, Eni, Nexstep, NGT, Nogat, TAQA and TNO. Their ambition is to accelerate the development of offshore hydrogen production as Europe expands its renewable energy capacity.
Read the full article: https://thehague.com/newsroom/en/news/offshore-gas-platform-proves-green-hydrogen-can-be-produced-using-existing-infrastructure
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