29, Apr 2026
NIT Rourkela Climbs to 186th Rank in THE Asia University Rankings 2026
Rourkela, Apr 29 (BNP): The National Institute of Technology Rourkela has secured the 186th position in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2026, strengthening its position among leading higher education institutions in Asia.
The latest rankings assessed 929 universities across 36 countries and territories, where NIT Rourkela continued to maintain a strong presence, reflecting its steady academic and research progress.
The improved ranking highlights the institute’s growing focus on academic quality, research output, and institutional development. It also reflects its expanding reputation in engineering education and innovation at both national and regional levels.
According to the ranking framework, universities are evaluated on parameters such as teaching standards, research performance, industry engagement, and international outlook. NIT Rourkela’s position indicates positive progress across these key areas.
Overall, the result reinforces the institute’s standing as one of India’s leading technical education institutions, with ongoing efforts to further enhance academic excellence and global competitiveness.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
29, Apr 2026
Virat Kohli Becomes Face of Oakley Meta AI Smart Glasses in India
New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Cricket star Virat Kohli has been announced as the brand ambassador for the new Oakley Meta Performance AI glasses in India, a joint initiative by Meta Platforms and Oakley.
The partnership aims to promote AI-powered smart glasses designed to support athletes in training and performance. The technology is expected to help users stay focused by offering real-time insights in a lightweight and easy-to-use format.
As part of the collaboration, fans will also get a closer view of Virat Kohli’s daily routine, including training sessions, match preparation, and behind-the-scenes moments, captured using the smart glasses.
Meta said the idea behind the product is to bring technology closer to sport, helping athletes access useful information without interrupting their flow during practice or competition.
Company representatives added that the collaboration reflects how wearable technology is becoming more integrated into sports, offering practical support to improve focus and performance.
Overall, the partnership highlights the growing link between sports and AI-based wearable devices, aiming to enhance both athlete experience and fan engagement.
29, Apr 2026
Enviro Infra Engineers Announces Strategic Acquisition of Wind EPC Company Suyog Urja Limited
New Delhi, Apr 29: Enviro Infra Engineers Limited, a leading player in the water and wastewater treatment sector, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, EIE Renewables Private Limited, has entered into Share Purchase Agreement to acquire a controlling stake in Suyog Urja Limited, a wind energy EPC company.
This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in Enviro’s journey to build a diversified and integrated renewable energy platform, complementing its established presence in water and wastewater infrastructure.
Commenting on this move, Mr. Sanjay Jain, Chairman, Enviro Infra Engineers Limited, said:
“This acquisition marks a significant milestone in our vision to deliver diversified solutions for a greener planet. Our strategy has consistently been to deepen our presence across the sustainability ecosystem, and the addition of wind EPC capabilities further strengthens that vision. Alongside our existing strengths in water and wastewater treatment, solar and energy storage, we are now well positioned to deliver integrated, future-ready solutions to our clients. Suyog Urja brings deep domain expertise, a strong execution track record, and long-standing relationships with leading developers. With a healthy order book and strong growth visibility, this acquisition further strengthens our renewable platform and positions us to capitalise on emerging opportunities in the energy transition.
We remain committed to disciplined capital allocation, operational excellence, and creating long- term value for all stakeholders, while continuing to scale our core water and wastewater business.”
Commenting on this acquisition Mr Chetraj Khadka, CEO, Suyog Urja Limited said,
“Partnering with Enviro Infra Engineers marks an important milestone for Suyog Urja. Their strong balance sheet, execution track record, and growing presence in renewables provide the right platform for our next phase of growth. Together, we are well-positioned to scale our wind EPC capabilities, pursue larger and more complex projects, and deliver integrated renewable solutions across solar, wind, and storage.”
Post-acquisition, the consolidated order book of the ENVIRO group stands at approximately ₹5,600 crore. ₹4,400 crore in EPC (₹2,500 crore water, ₹1,900 crore renewables), along with ₹1,200 crore in O&M and an IPP portfolio comprising 79 MW of solar and 150 MWh of BESS.
Strategic Rationale
The acquisition enables Enviro to expand into the high-growth wind energy EPC segment, adding a critical capability to its existing renewable portfolio spanning solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
Suyog Urja Limited brings with it:
- ·Build capabilities across Solar, Wind, and BESS, unlocking opportunities in hybrid renewable projects
- ·Strengthen its position in power transmission and evacuation infrastructure
- ·Diversify its client base with high-credit-rated private sector clients
- ·Leverage the acquired company’s experience of over 500 MW of projects completed, and 600 MW of projects under execution
- ·A well-established technical team and in-house capabilities across land acquisition, regulatory approvals, engineering, execution, and commissioning
- ·A healthy order book of approximately ₹650 crore, along with a strong pipeline of additional opportunities
- ·Strengthening Renewable Platform
With this acquisition, Enviro strengthens its renewable energy vertical as a multi-segment platform, enabling:
- ·Entry into a new and complementary renewable segment
- ·Enhanced ability to deliver end-to-end solutions across solar, wind and BESS
- ·Access to a broader set of customers and project opportunities
- ·Increased competitiveness in large-scale infrastructure and energy transition projects
- ·The acquisition aligns with Enviro’s broader strategy of diversifying into high-growth adjacencies, while continuing to scale its core wastewater treatment business.
Operational Synergies
The acquisition is expected to deliver multiple strategic and operational benefits, including:
- ·Leveraging complementary expertise across engineering, procurement and project execution
- ·Strengthening capabilities in land acquisition, regulatory approvals and project execution and Commissioning
- ·Enabling cross-functional synergies across Enviro’s water and renewable segments
- ·Building a platform for integrated infrastructure solutions
- ·Suyog Urja’s established relationships with leading renewable energy developers further enhance Enviro’s access to repeat business opportunities and long-term client partnerships.
Transaction Overview
The Company, through its Wholly Owned Subsidiary, has acquired 51% for ₹ 111 crore, followed by 24% for ₹ 108.85 crore in 2027, and the remaining 25% for ₹ 91.15 crore in 2028, taking total ownership to 100%. The erstwhile Promoter, Mr. Chetraj (with an overall experience of 20 years), will continue as CEO. The transaction will be funded through a 50:50 mix of equity and debt.
Suyog Urja Limited operates an asset-light, zero-debt model with PAT margins above 11%. For FY26, it is expected to report revenue of ₹ 355 crore and PAT of ₹ 38 crore, supported by an order book of ~₹650 crore and a 160+ strong technical team.
Tranche 2 and Tranche 3 valuation is KPI based. The cumulative PAT of ₹ 175 Crore for F.Y. 2026 to F.Y. 2028, along with an opening order book projected at more than ₹ 1,090 crore as on 1st April 2028, justifies the valuation of ₹ 311 Crore.
29, Apr 2026
SIP in Balanced Advantage Funds Promotes Discipline Amid Market Volatility
Mumbai, Apr 29 (BNP): Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in Balanced Advantage Funds are emerging as a disciplined investment approach for retail investors navigating volatile market conditions, according to recent market commentary and investment trends.
Balanced Advantage Funds, which dynamically adjust their equity and debt exposure based on market conditions, are increasingly being viewed as a stable option for long-term wealth creation. These funds aim to reduce downside risk during market downturns while capturing growth opportunities during upswings.
Financial experts note that combining SIPs with Balanced Advantage Funds helps investors maintain consistency in their investment behaviour, especially during periods of market uncertainty. Regular monthly investments reduce the impact of short-term volatility and help avoid emotional decision-making.
The approach is particularly relevant in the current environment, where equity markets are experiencing fluctuations driven by global cues, interest rate expectations, and geopolitical developments. SIPs ensure that investors continue investing at different market levels, which helps in averaging purchase costs over time.
Investment advisors highlight that Balanced Advantage Funds are designed to automatically rebalance portfolios between equity and debt, making them suitable for investors seeking a relatively smoother investment experience compared to pure equity funds.
Overall, the combination of SIP discipline and dynamic asset allocation is being positioned as a strategy that supports long-term financial goals while managing market uncertainty more effectively.
29, Apr 2026
UAE Announces Strategic Exit from OPEC; Moves to Independent Full-Capacity Production to Reshape Global Energy Market!
Dubai, Apr 29 (BNP): In a major development for the global energy sector, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that it will leave the OPEC and OPEC+ groups of oil-producing nations next month, ending nearly six decades of membership and raising fresh questions over the future of the cartel.
The UAE said the decision follows recent investments aimed at boosting its oil production capacity and would help the country meet growing global energy demand in the long term. Officials stated that leaving the group would provide greater flexibility in shaping its own production strategy without quota obligations.
The move is being seen as a significant blow to OPEC, with analysts warning it could weaken the alliance’s ability to influence global oil prices. Energy researcher Saul Kavonic described the development as “the beginning of the end of OPEC,” noting that the UAE accounts for a substantial share of the group’s production capacity.
The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 and its departure will reduce the cartel’s membership to 11 nations. OPEC was founded in 1960 by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela to coordinate oil production and safeguard the interests of exporting nations.
Market analysts believe the exit could trigger greater volatility in crude prices, as traders assess whether the UAE will ramp up independent production and whether other members may reconsider their positions.
The decision is also being viewed through a geopolitical lens, as it may pave the way for closer energy ties between the UAE and the United States at a time of shifting global alliances.
29, Apr 2026
Paytm’s Clear Separation from Payments Bank Strengthens Core Business and Investor Confidence
New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Digital payments firm One 97 Communications has strengthened its core operations after fully distancing itself from Paytm Payments Bank, a move that is now seen as improving business clarity and supporting long-term profitability.
Following regulatory action by the Reserve Bank of India in early 2024, the company undertook a complete operational separation from its banking arm. This ensured that its payments and financial services businesses continued independently, without any reliance on the payments bank.
The company has also clarified in stock exchange filings that it has no financial exposure or ongoing commercial relationship with Paytm Payments Bank, with all such arrangements discontinued in 2024.
Market analysts and brokerages have viewed this structural “arm’s length” approach positively, noting that it has helped remove regulatory uncertainty and provided greater transparency around the company’s business model.
With this separation in place, One 97 Communications is now focusing on strengthening its core digital payments ecosystem and expanding financial services in a more streamlined manner. The move is expected to support operational efficiency and reinforce investor confidence in the company’s future growth prospects.
Overall, the restructuring is being seen as a key step toward simplifying operations and building a more stable and scalable business framework.
29, Apr 2026
Chhattisgarh CM Launches ‘e-Shram Saathi’ App to Connect Workers with Jobs and Welfare Benefits
Raipur, Apr 29 (BNP): Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has launched a new mobile application designed to strengthen access to employment opportunities and government welfare schemes for workers across the state.
The app, named ‘e-Shram Saathi’, was launched during a review meeting of the Labour Department held at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar. The initiative aims to create a simple digital platform where workers can connect with job opportunities and avail government services directly from their mobile phones.
The primary objective of the app is to bridge the gap between workers and employment systems by providing real-time access to job listings, labour-related services, and welfare schemes. It is intended to support both organised and unorganised sector workers by making essential information and services more accessible in one place.
Officials said the platform will also help improve transparency and efficiency in the delivery of labour welfare programs, ensuring that eligible beneficiaries can easily access government support without procedural delays.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister also directed officials to conduct surprise inspections of industrial units using technology-based monitoring systems. This step is aimed at strengthening worker safety, ensuring compliance with labour laws, and protecting workers’ rights in industrial workplaces.
The launch of the app reflects the state government’s broader effort to integrate technology into governance and improve last-mile delivery of employment and welfare services.
29, Apr 2026
Fusion Signage achieves ISO 27001 certification and hits 20,000 user licence milestone
BRISBANE, 29 April 2026 – In what is turning out to be a month of major achievements Fusion Signage, often referred to as Australia’s user-friendliest digital signage software, has officially achieved ISO 27001 certification and hit their 20,000 user licence milestone all in the same week.
ISO 27001 is the leading international standard for information security management.
Fusion Signage MD James Ingram explained, “It’s truly been a momentous few weeks. We’ve achieved both SOC 2 Type II attestation and ISO 27001 certification, alongside reaching 20,000 active licences. For our customers, this instils confidence as, firstly, very few companies have both their SOC 2 Type II attestation and are ISO 27001 certified. Secondly, while it took a few years to get to 10,000 licences, it only took half that time to get another 10,000. For us, that’s a clear sign our platform is delivering real value and scaling with the businesses using it.”
Fusion Signage’s ISO 27001 certification means their customers’ data and content are managed under a globally recognised security standard with clear processes, regular audits and controls in place.
Ingram added, “As an Australian business supporting customers across a wide range of industries, we have always believed that protecting data isn’t a requirement it is a responsibility. With that in mind we are very proud that our commitment to security is now further enhanced and backed by an official ISO 27001 certification.”
In truth the Fusion Signage team started the process of setting out, formalising and strengthening the security practices the company had already been living by over 12 months ago.
Ingram said, “It wasn’t a quick project or a checkbox exercise. It was a deep, organisation‑wide effort to evaluate, refine and document how we handle information at every level. From internal processes to platform development, to how we support our customers on a day‑to‑day basis our team has been dedicated to building a secure foundation that scales with our customers and the digital signage industry.”
The results and benefits of having both SOC 2 Type II attestation and ISO 27001 certification are clear for Fusion Signage’s customers and users as their content and data are managed through clear, audited security processes. Risks are identified and handled early, not after something goes wrong and security is built into the Fusion Signage platform, not layered on later.
Ingram said, “This all means that while you’re uploading content, scheduling campaigns or managing multiple locations, everything runs on a secure foundation without you needing to think twice. While the ISO 27001 certification is new, the mindset behind it isn’t. Fusion Signage has always been built on reliability, transparency and customer trust. This achievement simply reinforces what has guided our platform from the very beginning – a platform you can trust to just work. In the world of digital signage this is no mean feat. In short and as a very highly regarded member of our industry said last week, Fusion Signage is making an already trusted platform even more trustworthy.”
Fusion Signage’s ISO 27001 certification audit was carried out by Sensiba, the internationally recognised certification body well-known for its thorough and transparent approach to information security reviews.
Ingram explained, “Our certification covers the entire Fusion Signage platform end to end, from the operational systems that support the product to the way we build and maintain our software to how we handle and protect information internally. It’s a large scope that reflects our commitment to keeping security front and centre across all areas of the business, not just within the platform itself.”
This ISO 27001 certification is one of the biggest undertakings in Fusion Signage’s history as committing to ISO 27001 also meant dedicating a significant amount of time, resources and focus. Entire roles were redirected, development priorities were reshaped and countless internal processes were rebuilt from the ground up. It was a major behind‑the‑scenes effort that customers rarely get to see.
James Ingram concluded, “This was a serious investment and one we chose because as the technology evolves with the likes of AI and increasing data breaches, security has never been more important for our customers. Every process we refined and every control we implemented was done with our customers in mind. In truth that’s the whole point of Fusion Signage and our digital signage software solution – adding safe, secure and reliable value to our customers and their businesses no matter what their size.”
29, Apr 2026
PM Modi Offers Prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Unveils Major Infra Push in Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, April 29 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple on Wednesday, where he offered prayers and performed darshan during his visit to Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The visit drew large crowds across the city, especially at key intersections like Lahurabir crossing, as residents gathered enthusiastically to welcome the Prime Minister. The atmosphere in Varanasi was marked by strong public turnout ahead of his scheduled roadshow.
Local leaders said the Prime Minister’s visits are often linked with new development announcements for the region, reflecting continued focus on infrastructure expansion and urban development in and around Varanasi.
Alongside the temple visit, the Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the 594-km-long Ganga Expressway, a major road infrastructure project in Uttar Pradesh. The six-lane greenfield expressway, expandable to eight lanes, has been developed at an estimated cost of ₹36,230 crore.
The expressway spans 12 districts, including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Raebareli, Pratapgarh, and Prayagraj, significantly improving regional connectivity across western, central, and eastern parts of the state.
Officials said the project is expected to reduce travel time between key cities such as Prayagraj and Lucknow, enhance road safety, and boost economic activity by improving logistics and accessibility.
Overall, the visit combines spiritual engagement at one of India’s most important religious sites with a major push for infrastructure development in Uttar Pradesh.
29, Apr 2026
Mamata Banerjee Alleges Violence, Accuses BJP of Trying to Rig West Bengal Phase-2 Polls!
Kolkata, Apr 29 (BNP): West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress candidate from Bhabanipur, Mamata Banerjee, on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to “forcefully rig the election” during polling in the second and final phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters while visiting polling booths in her constituency, Banerjee alleged incidents of violence against party workers and disruption of the democratic process. She claimed that one of her party workers had been assaulted overnight and termed the incidents an attack on the “festival of democracy.”
She further alleged that central forces and election observers were acting at the behest of the BJP and intimidating Trinamool Congress workers during polling hours.
The BJP strongly denied the allegations, with senior leader Suvendu Adhikari accusing the Trinamool Congress of trying to create fear among voters.
Meanwhile, scattered incidents of violence and vandalism were reported from several parts of the state, including Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala and Bhangar, during the early hours of polling. Election authorities said the situation remained under close watch, with extensive deployment of security personnel to ensure peaceful voting.
The second phase of polling covers 142 constituencies and is being seen as crucial in deciding the political future of the state. Voting began at 7:00 AM and will continue till the scheduled closing hours.
