5, May 2026
JLR India Slashes Range Rover SV Prices by Up to INR 75 Lakh Ahead of India–UK FTA
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) India has announced a significant price reduction of up to ₹75 lakh on its flagship Range Rover SV models, ahead of the expected benefits from the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The company said the revised pricing applies to its completely built unit (CBU) models imported from the UK, with the steepest cuts seen in the high-end SV range. The Range Rover SV has been reduced from ₹4.25 crore to ₹3.5 crore (ex-showroom), while the Range Rover Sport SV now starts at ₹2.35 crore, down from ₹2.75 crore.
According to JLR India, the price revision reflects anticipated changes in import duties once the FTA comes into effect, and the new prices are effective immediately.
Managing Director Rajan Amba said the move is aimed at passing on expected trade benefits to customers in advance and strengthening the brand’s presence in India’s luxury car market.
The company clarified that prices of locally manufactured models, including Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar, and Discovery Sport, remain unchanged. Models such as Defender and Discovery will also retain current pricing as they are manufactured outside the FTA’s scope.
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- By Neel Achary
5, May 2026
HOP Events, helmed by Kalpesh Kinariwala, bridges Indian talent and global prestige at the Shows of India 2026 Conclave
New Delhi, May 5: HOP Events, led by Founder and Chairman Kalpesh Kinariwala, marked its strategic entry into the Indian market as the anchor sponsor of the Shows of India 2026 Conclave, reinforcing its vision to connect Indian talent with global platforms.
Held at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, the sixth edition of the conclave concluded on May 2, bringing together leading industry professionals, creators, and stakeholders shaping India’s live entertainment ecosystem.
Through its participation, HOP Events aims to bridge the gap between iconic Indian and South Asian artists and international venues, offering them access to global audiences and premium productions. Beyond its anchor sponsorship, the company actively engaged in key discussions and networking forums, with Kalpesh Kinariwala also taking the stage as a speaker.
The initiative reflects HOP Events’ long-term strategy to identify, support, and elevate Indian talent across international markets, particularly in regions with a strong South Asian diaspora. By leveraging its expertise in large-scale experiential events and global entertainment platforms, the company seeks to create new opportunities for artists, managers, and creative professionals.
Highlighting the growing global appeal of Indian artists, Kinariwala emphasised the untapped potential for their presence on international stages, particularly in markets like the UAE and the wider GCC.
With a track record of delivering high-profile live experiences, HOP Events is positioning itself as a key enabler in taking Indian cultural talent to global audiences. The company’s expansion plans include scaling across the GCC and other global diaspora hubs, strengthening its role as a bridge between Indian artistry and world-class entertainment platforms.
5, May 2026
Bright future: PPDS readies new Philips Professional Displays product and partnership reveals at InfoComm 2026 including new UltraSlim Signage in Las Vegas
Philips booth C9000: Taking design, choice, and value to the next level, PPDS will showcase its latest groundbreaking evolutions in Las Vegas, including a new design led category, innovations for energy efficiency, an expanded solutions portfolio, and much more.
Amsterdam,May 05: PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, is excited to confirm its participation at InfoComm 2026, promising an unmissable lineup, with new partnerships and UltraSlims both debuting and showcasing as future tech among planned announcements in Las Vegas.
Exhibiting on Philips Booth C9000 – and joining over 800 registered exhibitors at the Las Vegas Convention Center (June 13-19) – InfoComm 2026 will mark another major milestone for PPDS and its acclaimed ‘total solutions’ strategy to deliver unrivalled quality, choice, and value to customers in North America and beyond.
Continuing PPDS’ evolution beyond a traditional provider of displays, InfoComm 2026 brings the opportunity to showcase – many for the first time – what is hailed by the company and its partners as the industry’s most complete and energy conscious portfolio of advanced and highly flexible digital display hardware and software solutions.
Total market solutions
With quality only matched by design, solutions now include, but are far from limited to, dvLED (indoor, outdoor, and AIO), videowalls, digital signage (including TAA compliant) and ePaper, interactive displays, and professional TVs, created to support all market verticals and environments.
At InfoComm 2026, PPDS is set to raise this bar even further with a wave of exciting new offerings, reinforcing its position as a centralized resource for projects of any scale, while delivering seamless buying and installation experiences to the channel.
Bruce Wyrwitzke, Senior Director North America at PPDS, said: “Built on the foundations of over 134 years of innovation with Philips, PPDS prides itself on enabling businesses to bring their vision to life through tailored, cutting edge innovations. At InfoComm 2026, we will deliver the latest advances in support of that strategy, as well as showcasing the latest solutions that will enable customers to truly display without limits. You won’t want to miss it.”
Ahead of the pack / Bright times ahead
Continuing PPDS’ highly embraced ‘Picture this’ theme, launched for this year, visitors to the Philips booth at InfoComm 2026 will be treated to an assembly of unmissable AI infused visual activity, with an ever-changing pool of content presented across a broad range of form visual factors and technologies.
Staying ahead of the pack, and with a commitment to delivering unrivalled choice, value, and opportunity to partners and customers in North America and around the world, PPDS can also confirm InfoComm 2026 will become the global launch pad for the latest in its new for 2026 AI ready digital signage lineup.
While full details are under wraps ahead of the show, the creation of this exciting new category within PPDS’ evolving Android SoC portfolio will open a wealth of exciting installation opportunities where proven quality, unparalleled visual performance, and UltraSlim aesthetics really matter. And that’s not all.
PPDS will be announcing a new major partnership and collaboration with one of the AV industry’s most trusted manufacturers, with the introduction of a brand new signage series with a fresh ecosystem for total solutions built in.
Jack Boyczuk, Director of PD Sales at PPDS in North America, added: “This year’s Philips booth encourages visitors to explore the reaches of their imaginations, using displays together with our trusted partner solutions to realise the benefits of what’s already integrated within Philips Professional Displays – including ultimate processing power and artificial intelligence (AI) ready technologies.”
We have the solution
Helping visitors to visualise and experience the full power, potential, and versatility of Philips Professional Displays, this year’s booth will include solutions to support a variety of needs in different environments, including retail, education, corporate, food and beverage, transportation, hospitality, public venues, and control rooms.
Powering forward
The latest evolutions of PPDS’ commitment and global strategy to developing better energy efficiency and more environmentally conscious features into its displays will also be present through the Philips booth, demonstrating ways businesses can deliver instant sustainability (and financial) benefits to their day to day operation.
This year’s show will feature a range of dvLED and digital signage solutions – including the new for 2026 Philips Signage 5000 Series, the TAA compliant Philips Videowall display, and the ‘zero power’ Philips Tableaux range, the award winning Philips Unite LED 6000 Series All In One, with the company’s acclaimed LED wall of fame showcasing many others.
Missed ISE 2026? For the first time in North America, PPDS will also be showcasing the new ‘all inclusive’ Philips LED Configurator, plus ‘game changing’ updates to the Philips Wave remote management platform.
As with previous events, PPDS will adopt an open approach to the Philips booth, with no restrictions on access, allowing visitors the freedom to experience all solutions up close. PPDS’ global management team, together with local and international sales managers from around the world, will be present and accessible throughout the show, providing live demonstrations and answering questions.
Angela Lin, Commercial Head for North America at PPDS, concluded: “We cannot wait to welcome visitors to the Philips booth at InfoComm 2026. 2026 has already been an exciting year, with some incredible new projects, combined with the ever strengthening of our portfolio and offering. With our incredible launches, as well as an array of future tech, together with a major new partnership, a visit to Philips Professional Displays could be a game changer for your business. We look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas.”
5, May 2026
India Most Resilient Emerging Market, Well-Positioned for Future Shocks: Moody’s
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): India has emerged as the most resilient large emerging market economy since 2020, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and substantial foreign exchange reserves, according to Moody’s Ratings.
In its latest report on emerging markets, Moody’s noted that India’s sizeable forex reserves have helped curb currency volatility and strengthen investor confidence during periods of global uncertainty and economic shocks.
The rating agency stated that India is well-positioned to manage future external shocks, citing a clear and predictable monetary policy framework, well-anchored inflation expectations, and a flexible exchange rate system that allows adjustment when required.
Moody’s further observed that India is among the better-placed sovereigns in the emerging market space, adding that the country is likely to enter any future stress periods with strong and readily accessible economic buffers.
5, May 2026
Bengaluru Airport Introduces AI-Based Airside Safety System
Bengaluru, May 5 (BNP): Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), operator of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), has introduced an integrated Smart Airside Safety System aimed at significantly improving operational safety, efficiency, and control across key airside zones.
The system is designed to strengthen safety at critical cross-service roads where aircraft and ground support vehicles operate in close proximity. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI-based computer vision, intelligent automation, and a centralised monitoring platform, the system enables real-time oversight and improved coordination of airside movements.
According to BIAL, the initiative enhances right-of-way management and ensures precise handling of complex operational scenarios, reducing the risk of human error and improving overall situational awareness.
The deployment of this technology marks a major step in the airport’s digital transformation journey, reinforcing its focus on adopting smart infrastructure solutions to support growing air traffic and operational demands while maintaining high safety standards.
5, May 2026
Invoicemart Surpasses 50 percent Women Workforce, Sets New Inclusion Benchmark in the Fintech Space
New Delhi, May 05: Invoicemart, India’s leading Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) platform, has crossed a key milestone, with women now comprising over 50% of its total workforce, well ahead of industry benchmarks in fintech and financial services.
This milestone reflects more than representation; it signals a strategic commitment to building a balanced, future-ready organisation. Women at Invoicemart play an integral role across leadership, sales, technology, operations, and risk—functions that have traditionally seen lower female participation. A consistent focus on equitable hiring, capability building, and career progression has enabled stronger participation in business-critical roles and decision-making.
The progress is underpinned by structured initiatives, including leadership development programmes, equitable opportunities, and continuous learning frameworks, supported by sustained leadership commitment to embedding inclusion into core business practices.
Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Prakash Sankaran, MD & CEO, Invoicemart, said, “Diverse teams drive stronger business outcomes. Crossing this 50% milestone reflects our sustained focus on building an inclusive organisation. We remain committed to building an environment where talent, irrespective of gender, can grow, lead, succeed and create long-term impact.”
Invoicemart’s people-first culture is reinforced through strong employee engagement, wellness initiatives, and recognition programmes across its pan-India offices. The company has also been recognised in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Index for its continued focus on advancing equity at all levels. As it scales further, Invoicemart remains focused on building a high-performance, inclusive workplace that drives sustained business impact.
5, May 2026
President Murmu Pays Homage to Former President Giani Zail Singh on Birth Anniversary
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday paid floral tributes to former President of India Giani Zail Singh at Rashtrapati Bhavan on the occasion of his birth anniversary, honouring his contribution to the nation and his legacy in public life.
Giani Zail Singh, who served as the seventh President of India from 1982 to 1987, is remembered as a prominent statesman who played a significant role in India’s political landscape. Born on May 5, 1916, in Sandhwan village of Faridkot district in Punjab, he dedicated several decades of his life to public service.
During his long political career, he held several important positions and was widely respected for his commitment to the welfare of the people and his leadership at both the state and national levels.
The tribute ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan reflected respect for his enduring contributions to the nation and his role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions.
5, May 2026
Life Insurance Demand Affected by New Tax Regime Changes, Says Deepak Parekh
Mumbai, May 5 (BNP): Renowned industry veteran Deepak Parekh has highlighted that recent changes under the new tax regime, particularly the reduction of tax benefits, are beginning to impact consumer interest in life insurance products.
According to Parekh, the earlier tax incentives played a significant role in encouraging individuals to invest in life insurance policies. With these benefits now scaled down or removed under the revised structure, the sector is witnessing a noticeable shift in buying behaviour.
He noted that while life insurance continues to remain an essential financial protection tool, the demand dynamics are evolving as policyholders reassess long-term savings and tax efficiency.
Parekh further emphasized the need for greater awareness and financial education to ensure that individuals continue to prioritize insurance coverage despite changes in tax policy.
The life insurance industry, he added, may need to adapt its product offerings and communication strategies to align with the evolving regulatory and tax environment.
5, May 2026
Instagram introduces ‘AI Creator’ label to boost content transparency for people
May 5: Instagram is testing the ability for creators who often create with AI to label their account as an “AI creator.” The label appears on your profile and alongside your content, giving your audience more transparency into the content they see. As a test, not everyone will have access yet, but this feature will be expanded in the coming weeks.
This new label builds on existing “AI info” labels that can be applied when posting AI content and that are automatically added when AI tools are detected in the creation process. If enabled, “AI creator” will appear on your profile’s bio and alongside your content in places such as Feed, Reels, and Explore. In instances when content is labeled as “AI info” and posted by a labeled AI creator, the “AI info” label will appear on the content instead of the “AI creator” label.
Using this label does not impact how your account or content is distributed across Instagram. It is designed to provide more transparency to audiences. Instagram encourages all accounts that regularly post AI-generated content to add this label.
This label makes it easier to understand how content is made, who’s behind it, and what’s worth your attention so that creativity stands out, and people can trust what they discover. Self-identifying as an AI creator builds trust and keeps you in control of your story. It also signals that you value transparency, which can help build a more authentic relationship with your audience.
Adding the label is simple. To do so:
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go to your Instagram profile
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tap “Edit profile,” and
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toggle on the AI creator label.
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Once enabled, the label will automatically appear on your profile’s bio and below your username on your content.
5, May 2026
Retired WVU Statler College Faculty Member Establishes Chair and Professor Positions with $3M Gift
A retired faculty leader at the West Virginia University Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources is honoring his family’s academic legacy with generous planned gifts to advance education, discovery and service.
Syd Peng, of Fremont, California, pledged $3 million in his will to establish endowed chair and professor positions at the WVU Statler College. His gifts reflect a devotion to WVU that has endured for more than 50 years, including nearly 40 as a faculty member and 28 as department chair of mining engineering.
WVU President Michael T. Benson will recognize Peng’s service to WVU by bestowing a Presidential Honorary Degree during Commencement ceremonies May 15-17.
The positions supported by Peng’s planned gift are named for him and his late wife, Felicia, also a longtime faculty member in mining engineering.
“I am deeply moved by this extraordinary and meaningful gift and grateful for Dr. Peng’s incredible generosity,” Pedro Mago, Glen H. Hiner Dean of the Statler College, said. “The establishment of this endowed chair and professorship, honoring the distinguished careers of Syd and his late wife, Felicia, represents a lasting investment in our college. Their legacy will continue to inspire innovation, scholarship and opportunities for generations to come.”
Peng was drawn to mining while growing up in Taiwan, where he worked in a local coal mine and earned his undergraduate diploma from the National Taipei University of Technology. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1965 to study at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
Syd and Felicia met and married while attending Stanford University, where they graduated with degrees in mining engineering and chemical engineering, respectively.
Syd then worked for the U.S. Bureau of Mines in Minneapolis for a few years as the couple pursued academic opportunities. Peng said there weren’t many universities with dedicated mining engineering departments at the time.
“When I looked around to see where I should go, WVU was the top choice because West Virginia was a coal mining state and I was very much interested in coal mining,” Peng said.
The Pengs found a home at WVU, where they spent decades empowering future generations of mining engineering leaders to excel through energy education and research.
Syd supervised more than 100 research projects and secured over $12 million in funding from government and private sources. His research, rooted in sound theory and practice, spanned more than 300 mines across the U.S. and 16 foreign countries.
He launched the International Conference on Ground Control in Mining, which continues to be held in West Virginia. Peng also wrote many textbooks, conference proceedings and journal articles focused on longwall mining, ground control, surface subsidence, respirable dust, modeling, mine seal and more.
Felicia completed her doctorate as a WVU faculty member in 1989. Her area of expertise was mineral processing, and she was passionate about engaging with students as she taught coal preparation-related subjects.
Throughout their careers, Syd said he and Felicia were always impressed by the loyalty and accomplishments of WVU mining engineering alumni.
“WVU mining engineering alumni are all over the coal mining industry in the U.S.,” he said. “They occupy high places at every major coal company. And wherever I would travel, I noticed alumni would always come from far away to meet with me. They wanted to know how the program was doing, those kinds of things. You need alumni loyalty to the program to support the future of WVU mining engineering.”
Syd and Felicia Peng have previously supported the mining engineering program with gifts to establish a namesake scholarship, professorship and library endowment. That’s why Syd opted to establish broader chair and professor positions in engineering with his latest gifts.
“I think the mining engineering department is well supported, so I felt the next thing I should support is the College of Engineering,” he said. “I would hope we entice faculty to further their research, including support for students.”
Among many other honors, Syd Peng is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and the West Virginia Coal Hall of Fame.
The Pengs remained in Morgantown for several years post-retirement. After Felicia died in 2021, Syd moved to California for its mild weather, easy walking terrain, and proximity to their son and grandchildren.
The Peng gift was made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University, in conjunction with Day of Giving. The 24-hour fundraising event, held March 25, raised more than $22 million through 11,202 gifts made by WVU alumni and friends.
