29, Apr 2026
De Beers Group Launches New Bridal Campaign Celebrating Desert Diamonds
NEW YORK, US – 29 April 2026 – De Beers Group recently announced the launch of its new Desert diamonds Bridal campaign undersigned by A Diamond Is Forever, celebrating a fresh and authentic vision for the modern proposal. This campaign marks a significant moment in De Beers’ ongoing commitment to redefining how natural diamonds express individuality, love, and timeless beauty.
Desert diamonds, first unveiled as a beacon in October 2025, draw inspiration from the colors of the earth from which they originate. The campaign celebrates a unique spectrum of colors — each shade telling a story of resilience, authenticity, and enduring love. The bridal campaign will build upon the success and momentum of the Q4 Desert diamonds launch.
Evolving the modern bridal aesthetic and highlighting the distinct character of each stone, Desert diamonds’ warm hues echo diverse forms of love, with sunlit whites and champagnes, soft sand tones and sunset blush and dawn colors reflecting the uniqueness of nature’s beauty. Together, these colors celebrate the evolving journey of love in all its forms – authentic, true and timeless.
The Desert diamonds bridal campaign is an industry-wide umbrella program, the goal of which is to create demand for natural diamonds by reigniting consumer desire with a new and relevant message. Retailers and designers across the industry have been working to develop pieces that showcase the full desert-inspired palette, including notable jeweler Kindred Lubeck, who will unveil her first bridal collection in conjunction with the campaign launch.
Launching 13 April 2026 across the United States, De Beers’ A Diamond Is Forever Desert diamond bridal campaign is supported by an integrated marketing effort across digital, social, and experiential channels, while also including out-of-home, social media and publishing partnerships. Using evocative storytelling, that creative spotlights how each natural diamond is as unique as the love it represents. Premium targeting efforts across digital platforms and geotargeting around key retailers will result in an estimated reach of 25 million American consumers – placing Desert diamonds in bridal content while leveraging shopper data and look-a-like audiences. Further amplification across the Brides, Martha Stewart, and greater People Inc. portfolio will educate, inspire and reinforce Desert diamonds as the enduring choice.
Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands & Diamond Desirability, said:
“The success of Desert diamonds reinforces the spirit of authentic, evolving love. Today’s brides want something truly unique that delivers meaning and individuality. Natural diamonds, forged by nature over billions of years, in a range of color choices are the perfect symbol of a love that is uniquely theirs – resilient, genuine, timeless, colorful. This soft palette of natural colors celebrates the modern couple’s desire to celebrate the individuality of their commitment and the promise of a forever that truly reflects their story.”
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- By Neel Achary
28, Apr 2026
Haiqu and HSBC Demonstrate Scalable Quantum Encoding for Financial Models
Peer-reviewed Physical Review Research paper shows efficient preparation of financial distributions on quantum hardware
NEW YORK CITY – April 28, 2026 – Haiqu, a leading developer of quantum middleware, today announced the publication of joint research with HSBC in Physical Review Research demonstrating an efficient approach to encoding real-world probability distributions into quantum circuits.
Quantum state preparation, the process of encoding classical data into quantum states, is widely recognized as a major bottleneck when implementing many quantum algorithms on hardware. This challenge is particularly relevant for applications such as financial risk modelling and simulation, where complex probability distributions must be loaded onto quantum devices.
The research uses matrix product state (MPS) methods to construct shallow quantum circuits that encode smooth functions, including probability distributions, directly into quantum states. It also introduces a sampling-based workflow that avoids storing the full discretized dataset in classical memory, enabling larger encoding circuits to be generated.
The approach was validated on finance-relevant models including heavy-tailed Lévy distributions, commonly used to capture extreme market events.
On IBM quantum hardware, circuits up to 25 qubits produced samples that passed standard statistical tests, showing the method can accurately reproduce the probability distributions these models rely on in practice.
Using the sampling-based workflow, the researchers also executed circuits up to 64 qubits, reproducing qualitative features of the target distributions under realistic device noise and demonstrating feasibility at larger scales. Similar behavior was observed in simulations up to 156 qubits, indicating the approach can extend to substantially larger problem sizes.
“Preparing complex probability distributions efficiently is a key step in many quantum algorithms,” said Dr. Philip Intallura, Group Head of Quantum Technologies at HSBC. “This work shows how they can be implemented with much shallower quantum circuits, bringing practical applications such as financial risk modelling closer.”
“One of the biggest practical barriers is getting realistic financial data onto today’s quantum hardware,” said Mykola Maksymenko, Co-founder and CTO of Haiqu. “This work shows a scalable path around that barrier and helps move quantum finance workflows from theory toward execution.”
Read the paper in Physical Review Research.
28, Apr 2026
PM Modi to Flag Off Ayodhya–Mumbai Amrit Bharat Express, Boosting North-West Rail Connectivity
New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the new Ayodhya–Mumbai Amrit Bharat Express, a major step toward strengthening rail connectivity between Northern and Western India. The new service will directly link the religious city of Ayodhya with the financial capital Mumbai.
The launch is being seen as a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to modernise Indian Railways and provide affordable, faster, and comfortable travel options for passengers. The Amrit Bharat Express has been designed primarily for common travellers, with a focus on improved efficiency and upgraded facilities.
Officials said the train will feature modern coaches with better suspension systems for smoother journeys, improved seating arrangements, enhanced lighting, and upgraded passenger amenities. It will also use push-pull technology, enabling quicker acceleration and reduced travel time.
The direct Ayodhya–Mumbai route is expected to benefit multiple sectors, particularly religious tourism, by providing better access for pilgrims visiting the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. It is also likely to improve business travel and trade movement between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra while offering a reliable travel option for migrant workers and tourists.
Railway authorities said the introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express reflects the Centre’s commitment to making modern rail travel accessible to every citizen and building a more integrated national transport network.
The flagging-off ceremony is expected to underline the government’s continued push for infrastructure expansion and stronger cultural as well as economic ties through world-class public transport services.
28, Apr 2026
Industrial Production Rises 4.1pc on Manufacturing Push
New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): India’s industrial production grew by 4.1% in March compared to the same month last year, supported mainly by strong performance in manufacturing and mining, according to official data released by the Ministry of Statistics.
The manufacturing sector, which forms the largest share of industrial output, expanded by 4.3%, with key contributions from basic metals, motor vehicles, and machinery and equipment. Mining activity also recorded a 5.5% growth, supporting overall industrial performance.
However, electricity generation saw only marginal growth of 0.5%, slightly moderating the overall index.
On the use-based side, capital goods output surged 14.6%, indicating higher investment activity in industrial capacity. Consumer durables rose 5.3%, while infrastructure and construction goods increased by 6.7%, driven by steady demand and ongoing public infrastructure projects.
Overall, the data indicates continued resilience in India’s core industrial sectors, supported by manufacturing strength and rising investment-led activity.
28, Apr 2026
Odisha CM Lays Foundation for INR 1,647 Crore Power Grid Project in Keonjhar
Keonjhar, Apr 28 (BNP): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for a ₹1,647 crore power grid project at Uchchabali in Keonjhar district, aimed at strengthening the state’s electricity transmission network and supporting future industrial growth.
The project includes the establishment of a 420/220 KV grid substation in the mineral-rich Badbail area, which is expected to significantly enhance power stability and distribution capacity in the region.
According to officials, the project will benefit around 7 lakh people, improving electricity supply for households, industries, and upcoming infrastructure developments.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister highlighted that improved infrastructure and rising industrial activity will transform Keonjhar into a major growth centre of eastern India. He added that the region has the potential to develop as a key industrial hub with strong power availability and mineral-based development.
The project is seen as a major step toward strengthening Odisha’s power infrastructure and supporting long-term economic and industrial expansion in the region.
28, Apr 2026
SRM Easwari Engineering College Launches India’s First ABB Global Excellence Center for Robotics
Chennai, Apr 28: SRM Group’s Easwari Engineering College inaugurated the Global Excellence Center for Robotics, established on its campus by Switzerland-based ABB Robotics, a global leader in robotics and machine automation. The new facility is the first of its kind in India and only the third such robotics centre in the world to be established by ABB Robotics.
The ABB Robotics–SRM Easwari Global Excellence Center features advanced AI-enabled robotic systems and intelligent automation labs, including 3D pin picking, palletising, spot and arc welding cells, service & maintenance units, and VR/digital simulation cells. The setup integrates cutting-edge domains such as autonomous mobile robots, generative AI, vision systems, IoT, PLC automation, digital twin technologies, and smart manufacturing solutions.
The center was launched by Mr. Subrata Karmakar, President, ABB Robotics, along with Mr. Adityaram, Founder Chairman & MD, Adityaram Group; Mr. Anbu Jayabalan, Chief Operating Officer, Adani Realty; Mr. Vishwanath Kamath, Managing Director, Fronius India; Mr. Bhaskar Kanchi, Head of Engineering, embedUR Systems; Mr. Ram Bhadouria, GM – Engg. & Prj. (South Asia), Unilever; Mr. Meenakshi Sundaram, Chief Technology Officer, Amalgamations Group; Mr. Vinod Krishnan, Chief Executive Officer & MD, TVS Next; Mr. Srivats Ram, Managing Director, Wheels India; and Ms. Sujatha Chakravarthy, Chief Executive Officer & MD, Dhvani Group of Companies, in the presence of Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman, and Smt. Geetha Shivakumar, Vice Chairperson, SRM Group of Institutions.
Envisioned as a hub for research, innovation, and interdisciplinary excellence, the ABB Robotics–SRM Easwari Global Excellence Center, will provide opportunities for the college’s students from diversified engineering streams – from mechanical to computer science, to gain hands-on experience in AI and robotics, innovate automation solutions for industries, and launch tech startups.
The establishment of this center is expected to attract increased consultancy and industry collaborations, strengthening ties between academia and industry while opening new avenues for research, innovation, and professional engagement. It will drive advancements in areas such as predictive maintenance, supply chain automation, embedded systems, and advanced robotics.
In his comments, Dr. Shivakumar said, “We are delighted to open the Global Excellence Center for students and industry partners, and we thank ABB Robotics for choosing our college to establish this centre. The ABB Robotics–Easwari collaboration represents a pioneering model for high-impact partnerships in technical education in India. The centre brings advanced infrastructure and technological capabilities to the country that were previously accessible largely in Western countries. It will also promote multidisciplinary research at the undergraduate level, encouraging students to engage in research early in their academic journey rather than limiting such opportunities to doctoral studies. This approach is expected to nurture analytical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, while building a strong ecosystem for innovation-led entrepreneurship.”
Mr. Subrata Karmakar said, “Robotics and automation are revolutionising the manufacturing sector, with industries across sectors and of all sizes rapidly embracing these technologies, especially in countries like India where manufacturing is being strongly prioritised. As a leader in this industry, we believe it is our responsibility to equip engineering students with skills in this emerging domain, enabling them to secure high-value careers, while also encouraging interdisciplinary research and innovation to develop solutions for industry needs. In this context, we are delighted to inaugurate our Global Excellence Center which will provide students and industry access to world-class technology.”
Easwari Engineering College has over 1,000 students and more than 400 faculty members. The institution offers a wide range of undergraduate engineering and technology programmes spanning core disciplines and emerging fields such as Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical and Electronics, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Robotics, and allied specialisations, creating strong academic and career pathways for students. Leveraging its strengths in AI-driven innovation, the college has been providing automation consultancy services to manufacturing companies across India, delivering innovative solutions backed by proof of concept.
28, Apr 2026
India’s Engineering Exports to New Zealand Expected to Double After New FTA
Kolkata, Apr 28 (BNP): India’s engineering exports to New Zealand are projected to nearly double over the next five years, rising from about USD 140 million to nearly USD 280–300 million, supported by the recently signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), officials said.
The agreement provides zero-duty access for Indian goods, significantly improving market competitiveness and easing trade barriers for exporters.
Industry representatives noted that the pact is expected to deliver strong benefits, especially for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), by expanding stable and predictable market access in a smaller but high-growth export destination.
Engineering exports to New Zealand have already shown steady growth, increasing to around USD 140.5 million in 2025–26, compared to USD 129.8 million in the previous year, indicating rising demand even before the full impact of the FTA takes effect.
Officials believe the agreement will further strengthen India’s engineering export footprint and support long-term trade diversification.
28, Apr 2026
Indian Markets Slip on Crude Oil Spike and Geopolitical Tension
Mumbai, Apr 27 (BNP): Indian benchmark indices closed lower on Tuesday, pressured by a sharp rise in global crude oil prices and renewed geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Investor sentiment remained cautious throughout the session amid uncertainty over developments involving the United States and Iran, which kept global energy markets volatile.
At the close, the Sensex declined 416.72 points (0.54%) to 76,886.91, while the Nifty fell 97 points (0.40%) to 23,995.70.
Broader Markets Show Relative Strength
Despite weakness in frontline indices, broader markets outperformed. The MidCap index rose 0.28%, while the SmallCap index gained 0.42%, indicating selective buying interest.
Sector Performance Mixed
Market action was uneven across sectors:
- Oil & Gas and Metal stocks gained on higher crude prices
- Banking stocks remained under pressure, with PSU Bank and Nifty Bank among top losers
On the Sensex, stocks like Adani Ports, ITC, Bharti Airtel, and Tech Mahindra ended in the green, while HCL Tech, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and Infosys were among the major laggards.
Oil Prices Drive Global Concern
Global crude oil prices surged nearly 3% to around $111 per barrel, driven by concerns over supply disruption and geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
The rise in oil prices is seen as inflationary for import-dependent economies like India, adding pressure on equities and currency markets.
Rupee Weakens Against Dollar
The Indian rupee also came under pressure, trading near 94.54 per US dollar, impacted by rising crude prices and sustained foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows.
Outlook
Market experts expect volatility to persist in the near term, with global oil price movements and geopolitical developments likely to remain key drivers of investor sentiment.
28, Apr 2026
Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Unveils IIGJ Udupi as a New Centre of Excellence for Gems & Jewellery Skills
Karnataka, Apr 28: Marking a significant milestone in India’s gem and jewellery skill development landscape, the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), Udupi was unveiled today as a new centre of excellence by Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, reaffirming the government’s continued focus on skilling, innovation and employment generation for the sector.
The ceremony was attended by Shri Kota Shrinivas Poojari, Member of Parliament; Shri Yashpal A. Suvarna, MLA, Udupi; Shri Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLA, Kaup (Kapu) Assembly Constituency, Karnataka; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Mahender Tayal, Regional Chairman, Southern Region, GJEPC; and Shri Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, alongside industry members, students and stakeholders.
The new IIGJ Udupi centre is envisioned as a hub for nurturing talent, supporting artisanal excellence and equipping students with industry-relevant skills across jewellery design, manufacturing and emerging technologies. The inauguration further strengthens IIGJ’s growing national footprint and underscores the sector’s commitment to building a future-ready workforce.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said,
“IIGJ Udupi stands as a strong example of how industry-led skilling can transform lives and create opportunities for youth across southern India. The institute is empowering students from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and beyond with employable skills, entrepreneurial opportunities and pathways to prosperity. Through the support of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the institute has aligned its training with global market needs and evolving industry standards. As demand for skilled talent grows and India strengthens its position in global jewellery exports, institutions like IIGJ Udupi will be instrumental in nurturing talent, expanding opportunities for our youth, and driving inclusive economic growth.”
Shri Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), said,
“The unveiling of IIGJ Udupi reflects our continued commitment to strengthening India’s skill ecosystem for the gem and jewellery sector. In the last four years alone, IIGJ centres across the country have trained over 7,000 students, building a strong talent pool for the industry. Today, the Indian gem and jewellery sector contributes nearly USD 28 billion in exports and supports over 5 million livelihoods. As the sector evolves into a more design-led, technology-driven and value-added ecosystem, the demand for skilled professionals will only grow. Institutions like IIGJ are central to sustaining India’s leadership and maintaining its position as the supplier of choice for the world. This effort also advances the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and supports our ambition of taking gem and jewellery exports to USD 100 billion.”
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) and IIT Madras (InCent-LGD). The partnership aims to launch a specialised certification programme in lab-grown diamond technologies, creating skilled and industry-ready professionals for this fast-growing sector. It will support value-added manufacturing and further strengthen India’s position in the global lab-grown diamond value chain, aligned with the vision of Make in India and Skill India.
Highlighting the sector’s transformation and emerging opportunities, Shri Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, said
“With expanding global opportunities, strong domestic demand and growing focus on innovation, the industry is entering a new phase of growth. Investments in skilling and education through institutions like IIGJ will be critical to sustaining India’s leadership in the global gem and jewellery sector.”
Aligned with the government’s Skill India vision and initiatives such as the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, IIGJ has been expanding access to structured training for grassroots artisans and aspiring professionals. The IIGJ institute currently offers over 40 specialised programmes, including degree courses, diplomas and postgraduate programmes, with strong industry linkages and placement outcomes.
The new centre is expected to play a key role in supporting the next phase of growth while empowering youth, artisans and entrepreneurs from the region to participate in India’s expanding gem and jewellery opportunity.
28, Apr 2026
Aamir Khan Confirms 3 Idiots 2, Set to Return as Phunsukh Wangdu After 10 Years!
Mumbai, Apr 28 (BNP): Actor Aamir Khan has confirmed that work on the much-awaited sequel to 3 Idiots is underway, raising excitement among fans eager to revisit one of Bollywood’s most iconic stories.
Speaking in a recent interview, Aamir revealed that the script for 3 Idiots 2 is progressing well and retains the same humour and emotional appeal that made the original film a blockbuster success. He said the new story is unusual and compelling, while being set 10 years after the events of the first film.
The actor also indicated his intention to reprise his much-loved role as Phunsukh Wangdu, saying it is one of the projects he plans to begin soon. He praised the writing team for crafting a beautiful and engaging storyline.
Industry reports suggest that the sequel may reunite the original star cast, including R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Kareena Kapoor Khan alongside Aamir Khan, though an official announcement is awaited.
Released in 2009, 3 Idiots became a landmark film in Indian cinema, celebrated for its humour, emotional depth, and sharp take on the education system. The sequel is expected to blend nostalgia with a fresh narrative for audiences across generations.
