18, Mar 2026
Marriages in India, breakups in New York: Astrology data shows cultural divide
Mar 18: Astrology consultations often reflect the societal priorities of the regions users live in. Data from Astrotalk, based on over 12 million consultations between April 2025 and March 2026, highlights both similarities and differences in user concerns across India and the United States.
The type of relationship questions differs significantly by geography. In India, consultations related to relationships and marriage account for nearly 25% of all queries, with users primarily seeking guidance on when they will get married, with whom, and how the marriage will unfold. In contrast, the same category represents 33% of US consultations, where users focus more on relationship quality, compatibility, family planning, or post-breakup possibilities. This highlights broader societal differences: marriage remains a central milestone in India, while in the US, relationships as a concept take precedence over formal marriage.
Across India and the US, more than 29% of revenue comes from consultations related to relationships and marriage, showing that personal relationships are a universal priority.
In India, career and business-related questions account for nearly 18% of all consultations, underscoring the continued importance of professional growth and job stability. Among US users, career-related consultations represent only 22%, while financial planning and investment questions are more prominent, indicating a stronger emphasis on wealth management and long-term financial decisions.
Users in both regions continue to rely on traditional Vedic astrology practices, such as kundli analysis and planetary transits, increasingly accessed through digital platforms.
“Even in a fast-moving digital world, people often turn to systems they trust when navigating uncertainty. Technology is simply enabling those traditional conversations to happen instantly, regardless of where someone lives,” said Puneet Gupta, Founder and CEO, Astrotalk.
Astrotalk attributes the growth in global consultations to international payment support, multilingual consultations, and astrologer availability across time zones, making astrology services accessible on demand worldwide.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
18, Mar 2026
Audi strengthens Q range in India, launches the performance-focused Audi SQ8
Mumbai, Mar 18: Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, has launched the new Audi SQ8 in India, strengthening its high-performance SUV portfolio with a model that blends power, precision engineering, and everyday practicality.
Priced at an introductory INR 1,77,72,000 (ex-showroom), the Audi SQ8 comes with a 10-year complimentary Roadside Assistance package, along with comprehensive maintenance and service offerings.
Power Meets Performance
At the heart of the Audi SQ8 is a 4.0-litre V8 TFSI engine delivering 373 kW and 770 Nm of torque, enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h.
The vehicle features Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, adaptive air suspension sport, and all-wheel steering, ensuring enhanced agility, stability, and driving dynamics.
Commenting on the launch, Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director, Audi India, said:
“The Audi SQ8 strengthens our high-performance SUV line-up in India by offering a compelling balance of power, everyday usability and genuine, visceral performance. It is designed for customers who seek versatility without compromising on excitement.”
Striking Design and Advanced Features
The Audi SQ8 boasts a bold exterior with:
-
HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi Laser Light
-
Frameless doors and panoramic sunroof
-
Optional 22-inch alloy wheels and carbon styling packages
-
S-specific design elements and illuminated door sill trims
Inside, the SUV offers a premium and technology-rich cabin featuring:
-
Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus and MMI Navigation
-
Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System
-
Sport seats with premium upholstery and massage function (optional)
-
Ambient lighting with 30 colour options
Comfort, Connectivity & Safety
Designed for everyday luxury, the SQ8 includes:
-
4-zone automatic climate control
-
360-degree camera with park assist
-
Wireless charging with Audi Phone Box
-
Power latching doors and advanced convenience features
Safety is reinforced with eight airbags, Audi Pre Sense Basic, cruise control with speed limiter, and optional advanced driver assistance features such as night vision assist and lane departure warning.
A Statement in the Performance SUV Segment
With a wide range of exterior colour options and premium interior finishes, the Audi SQ8 stands as a versatile luxury SUV tailored for India’s growing base of performance-focused customers.
18, Mar 2026
Saviynt Appoints Alex Lei to Drive Identity Security Growth Across Asia Pacific and Japan
Bangalore, Mar 18: Saviynt, a leading provider of identity security and governance solutions, announced the appointment of Alex Lei as Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ). Based in Singapore, Lei will lead the company’s regional sales organisation as enterprises across APJ accelerate investments in identity security to support cloud adoption, AI initiatives, and increasingly complex digital environments.
In his role, Lei will oversee customer acquisition, partner strategy and go-to-market execution across APJ. He will work closely with customers and partners to support organisations navigating rapid cloud adoption, the rise of AI-driven applications, and evolving cybersecurity risks. He will focus on expanding Saviynt’s regional footprint while strengthening engagement with enterprises seeking to modernise identity security.
“APJ is one of the fastest-growing regions for identity security as organisations modernise their digital infrastructure and adopt AI at scale,” said Todd Rotger, Chief Revenue Officer at Saviynt. “Alex has deep regional experience and a strong track record of building high-performing enterprise sales teams. His leadership will help us expand our presence and support customers navigating complex identity challenges.”
“I am excited to join Saviynt at a time when organisations are rethinking how identity underpins security and digital transformation,” said Alex Lei as Senior Vice President of Sales. “We are at the nexus of the digital revolution, where digital identity, identity security, and AI agents are becoming fundamental to enterprise resilience. Saviynt’s platform and vision position us strongly to support organisations across the fast-growing APJ market.”
Lei joins Saviynt with extensive experience leading enterprise technology and cybersecurity sales organisations across the region. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia Pacific and Japan at Ivanti, where he was responsible for regional sales growth and enterprise adoption of security and IT solutions. Prior to Ivanti, he held senior leadership roles at Proofpoint and Dell EMC, working closely with large organisations across the region on cybersecurity and digital infrastructure transformation.
18, Mar 2026
PM-KISAN 22nd Instalment Benefits Over 34 Lakh Farmers in Odisha
In a major boost to Odisha’s agricultural sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 22nd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on March 13, 2026. The disbursement directly benefited over 34 lakh farmer families in Odisha, providing a total financial assistance of approximately ₹684 crore.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The PM-KISAN scheme offers financial support of ₹2,000 per farmer per instalment, transferred directly to bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Nationwide, this 22nd instalment reached over 9.32 crore farmers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting the farming community across India.
At a state-level function in Bhubaneswar, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and other officials, highlighted the importance of this financial support. The funds help farmers purchase essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, thereby enhancing productivity and income.
In addition to PM-KISAN, the Odisha government runs the CM-KISAN scheme, which provides an additional ₹4,000 annually to eligible farmers in two instalments. Under the combined initiatives, over 51.54 lakh beneficiaries in the state have received more than ₹2,991 crore to date.
Chief Minister Majhi also urged farmers to ensure that their e-KYC, Aadhaar linking, and land record updates are completed to avoid any disruption in receiving benefits.
These initiatives reflect the state and central government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Odisha’s agricultural economy, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and provide financial stability to the farming community.
18, Mar 2026
Odisha Set to Benefit from Enhanced Rail Links with South and Northeast India
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday that the newly approved Amrit Bharat Express trains will significantly enhance rail connectivity across Odisha, linking the state more closely with key cities in Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, and Assam.
The first train, running between Podanur in Tamil Nadu and Dhanbad in Jharkhand, will make scheduled stops at Rayagada, Muniguda, Kesinga, Titlagarh, Bolangir, Bargarh Road, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Rourkela. This service will directly benefit seven districts in southern and western Odisha, including the historically underserved KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region.
“This train will not only improve convenience for passengers but also strengthen economic and social links between Odisha and industrial hubs like Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Ranchi, Bokaro, and Dhanbad,” Majhi said in a social media post, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the approval.
The second Amrit Bharat Express, operating between Kamakhya in Assam and Charlapalli in Andhra Pradesh, will pass through several districts in Odisha, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Khordha, and Ganjam. It will also stop at Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. This route aims to enhance connectivity between Odisha, Northeast India, and the southern states, providing better travel options for students, workers, traders, and tourists. The train departs from Kamakhya every Sunday and from Charlapalli every Wednesday.
Both trains feature modern LHB coaches designed for long-distance travel with improved comfort and safety. Passengers in general and sleeper classes will benefit from upgraded seating, ample luggage space, and enhanced onboard facilities, making travel more comfortable and affordable.
Officials from the East Coast Railway (ECoR) highlighted that these new services will boost mobility, promote tourism and pilgrimage, and support local economies by connecting people and regions more efficiently.
The introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express trains demonstrates a continued effort by the central government to strengthen Odisha’s railway infrastructure and accelerate regional development, bringing convenience, opportunities, and a modern travel experience to residents of the state.
18, Mar 2026
Pulmonology and the Global Respiratory Crisis: A Specialty at the Forefront
Pulmonology is one of the most vital specialties in respiratory care, often described as the medical detective of the respiratory system. Pulmonologists diagnose and treat conditions ranging from asthma to complex diseases such as lung cancer. Their role is especially critical in India, where NAPCON 2025 data shows that despite accounting for 18% of the global population, the country bears 30.2% of the global burden of chronic respiratory diseases. Millions live with asthma and COPD, many of whom remain underdiagnosed or lack timely access to lung-function testing. In critical care settings, pulmonologists are often among the first responders when patients struggle to breathe.
Highlighting the importance of the specialty, St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, highlights pulmonology as a field that combines analytical expertise, advanced diagnostics, and high-impact patient care. SGU alumnus and practicing pulmonologist Dr. Sámal Jakobsen, MD’ 13, notes the breadth of the discipline: “We see patients with cough, dyspnea, COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, pleural disease, and manage the initial workup for suspected lung cancer. We also provide outpatient care and even palliative care in patients’ homes.”
Tips for aspiring pulmonologists
For medical students considering this path, early preparation, strong clinical fundamentals, and real-world exposure are key to building a meaningful career in pulmonology.
1.Real-world experiences matter
Pulmonology is a deeply patient-facing specialty, often grounded in long-term care. Early real-world exposure can shape career choices in unexpected ways and highlight the importance of empathy and resilience in respiratory medicine. Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Jakobsen shares, “My time in Grenada shaped me as a lifelong learner. I learned the value of structured learning and the importance of working together with colleagues, which helped me succeed and continues to influence how I practice medicine today.” Such experiences can strongly shape a doctor’s approach to learning and teamwork throughout their career.
2. Strong internal medicine fundamentals are essential
A solid grounding in internal medicine lays the foundation for a successful career in pulmonology. Building core clinical skills early, such as detailed history-taking, thorough physical examinations, and essential procedures, is critical to confident decision-making and patient care. As Dr. Jakobsen notes, early in his training, he “mastered the basics: taking thorough patient histories, performing physical exams, and learning key procedures like blood draws, arterial blood gases, lumbar punctures, and pleural taps.” These fundamentals continue to underpin effective pulmonary practice.
3. Hands-on care and continuity define pulmonology
Pulmonology combines diagnostics, procedures, and long-term patient relationships, making it a distinctly hands-on and patient-centered specialty. Those who enjoy procedural work alongside sustained patient engagement may find the field especially rewarding, as it allows clinicians to make a tangible difference over time.
4. Respiratory care is a growing global need
Respiratory diseases remain widely underdiagnosed across the world, increasing the public health importance of pulmonology. Early and accurate diagnosis can significantly alter patient outcomes. Highlighting this gap, Dr. Jakobsen observes, “Many people never get proper workups, and COPD often goes undiagnosed. Quick diagnosis and treatment make all the difference.” This places pulmonologists in a critical position to improve care outcomes and address an expanding global health challenge.
A career that helps the world breathe better
Pulmonology is more than a medical specialty; It’s a calling to protect one of life’s most essential functions: breathing. For medical students ready to blend science, skill, and compassion, pulmonology offers a path that is as intellectually stimulating as it is profoundly human.
As SGU’s faculty and alumni continue to demonstrate, the field offers limitless opportunities to make a lasting impact, one breath at a time.
18, Mar 2026
No. 1 Live Seller Kim Gravel Launches Selling with Soul, Her Secret Playbook Behind $1B in Live Sales – and How to Master It
Credit: Sylvia Lee
LOS ANGELES, CA — March 18:
Kim Gravel, a Southern girl-next-door with no degree and no outside funding, cracked the code of live selling, generating over $1.4 billion in real-time sales and selling nearly 29.5 million units across The Kim Gravel Brand (Belle by Kim Gravel and Love Who You Are (LWYA)).
In a bold move that cemented her as a leading innovator in modern commerce, America’s top live seller, bestselling author, and entrepreneur, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, an eight-module digital course sharing the exact strategies behind her record-breaking success. The course launched on March 17, 2026, in conjunction with International Women’s Month.
As TikTok Shop, Amazon Live, and social commerce continue to rapidly reshape how consumers discover and buy products, live selling has emerged as one of the fastest-growing drivers of conversion in retail. However, as more creators and brands rush into the space without a clear strategy, audiences are growing increasingly skeptical of inauthentic influencer sales, and brands are struggling to build lasting trust and loyalty. Recognizing this gap, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, providing a roadmap to sell authentically and effectively.
Gravel’s live-selling achievements speak for themselves. On QVC, her highest-selling day came on March 5, 2023, with nearly $10.5 million in sales and 212,000 units sold, including $8.8 million from her Belle by Kim Gravel fashion line alone. In 2025, she headlined the first-ever KIM-A-THON, generating over $5.7 million in sales across 14 hours of programming. That year also featured back-to-back live audience shows with the highest live audience achievement rate of 2025, highlighting Gravel’s ability to engage viewers in real time across QVC’s platforms.
“Selling With Soul is built on the belief that live selling is a conversation, not a performance,” said Gravel. “When you focus on genuine connection and create a space where people feel valued, the audience responds, and the business grows in an authentic, sustainable way.”
Gravel’s story is as unconventional as it is inspiring. She spent a decade as a stay-at-home mom before building her business entirely on her own terms, proving that authenticity, consistency, and connection are the real currency of today’s digital economy. She is also the bestselling author of Collecting Confidence, the author of the children’s book Maribelle and the Manger, and the host of a top-ranked podcast. Selling With Soul is her first-ever course, designed to teach entrepreneurs, creators, and brands how to turn live selling into a human-centered, revenue-driving experience.
Who the Course is For:
-
Entrepreneurs and creators ready to turn authenticity into profit
-
Brands looking to build loyalty, trust, and community, not just clicks
-
Anyone ready to step on camera with confidence and connect in real time
-
Individuals who want to turn personality, presence, or purpose into impact and income
What Participants Will Learn:
-
How to build emotional trust that drives long-term loyalty
-
Mindset and presence techniques to show up authentically on camera
-
Storytelling methods that turn real-life experiences into revenue-driving moments
-
Step-by-step guidance on presenting live, engaging audiences, and building a loyal community
-
The exact messaging formula Kim uses on QVC, Amazon Live, and TikTok Shop
-
How to scale ethically, turning individual live moments into movements and superfans
As live selling continues to define the future of e-commerce, Gravel stands at the forefront, showing that real success is accessible to anyone willing to build trust, show up, and connect. Selling With Soul is more than a course—it is a blueprint for the next generation of entrepreneurs who want to thrive in today’s digital economy.
18, Mar 2026
Australia, Odisha Talks Focus on Clean Energy, Agriculture and Skill Development
In a step toward strengthening international cooperation, Bernard Lynch met Odisha Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo at Lok Seva Bhawan to explore partnerships in renewable energy, agriculture, and technological innovation.
Pic Credit: Pexel
During the discussion, Lynch appreciated Odisha’s strong performance in both energy and agriculture, noting that the state has surpassed national growth trends in the farming sector. He also highlighted the state’s progress in modernising its power infrastructure, which has enhanced electricity generation and transmission capabilities.
Responding to this, Singh Deo outlined the government’s recent initiatives to expand renewable energy production and promote clean energy adoption. He emphasised that supportive policies are being implemented to better utilise natural resources and accelerate sustainable development.
The talks also underlined Odisha’s agricultural achievements, with record production levels contributing to rising farmer incomes. Both sides expressed confidence that closer collaboration between Australia and Odisha would open new opportunities in clean energy, agriculture, and technology.
In a separate meeting, Lynch held discussions with Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, focusing on boosting industrial investment, skill development, and technical education. The engagement signals growing international interest in Odisha’s development trajectory and its potential as a hub for innovation and skilled workforce growth.
18, Mar 2026
Odisha Targets Rapid Gas Infrastructure Rollout with Single-Day Clearances
Pic Credit: Pexel
Amid growing uncertainty in global fuel markets, the Odisha government has stepped up efforts to build a robust and future-ready energy infrastructure by fast-tracking the expansion of city gas distribution (CGD) networks across the state. The initiative is aimed at improving energy security while promoting cleaner fuel alternatives for households, industries, and transportation.
The strategy was reviewed at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan. Senior officials, including Hemant Sharma and Usha Padhee, participated in the discussions alongside representatives from leading energy companies such as GAIL, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Adani Total Gas.
A key focus of the meeting was identifying and eliminating bottlenecks that have slowed the rollout of gas infrastructure projects. Delays in approvals for pipeline installation, coordination challenges among departments, and procedural inefficiencies were highlighted as major hurdles. In response, the government has introduced a time-bound clearance mechanism, directing municipal corporations and relevant departments to approve all pending pipeline-laying permissions within 24 hours. This step is expected to significantly accelerate project execution on the ground.
The expansion of CGD networks is central to Odisha’s broader push toward sustainable and diversified energy use. By promoting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for domestic and commercial use, the government aims to provide a safer, more convenient alternative to traditional cooking fuels like LPG. At the same time, increased availability of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is expected to support cleaner mobility solutions, particularly in urban transport systems.
Officials believe that strengthening last-mile connectivity will play a crucial role in ensuring widespread adoption of these alternatives. Efforts are being made to extend the gas pipeline network deeper into cities and emerging urban clusters, making clean energy accessible to a larger population. This expansion is also expected to benefit small and medium enterprises by providing a reliable and cost-effective fuel source.
The government has set an ambitious deadline of June 30 to achieve key milestones in infrastructure development. This sense of urgency reflects a proactive approach to reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels and insulating the state from external supply shocks. It also aligns with national goals of increasing the share of natural gas in the overall energy mix.
Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative is likely to generate economic opportunities. Infrastructure development, network maintenance, and increased industrial activity linked to gas availability are expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies. Moreover, improved energy access can enhance the ease of doing business, making Odisha a more attractive destination for investment.
Overall, the accelerated rollout of city gas infrastructure marks a significant step in Odisha’s transition toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By combining policy support, administrative efficiency, and industry collaboration, the state is positioning itself to meet rising energy demands while prioritizing sustainability and long-term growth.
18, Mar 2026
Nita M. Ambani Honoured at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences with 2025 Humanitarian Award
In a moment that celebrated compassion, leadership, and social commitment, Nita M. Ambani was honoured with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the campus of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences in Bhubaneswar.
The award recognises her extensive contribution to social development through the Reliance Foundation, where her initiatives have touched millions of lives across India. Her work spans critical sectors such as education, healthcare, rural transformation, women’s empowerment, and sports development—areas that directly impact communities at the grassroots level.
The honour was presented by Mohan Munasinghe in the presence of Achyuta Samanta, whose institutions have long been associated with inclusive education and tribal empowerment.
More than just an award ceremony, the event reflected a shared vision of building a more equitable society. Speaking on the occasion, Ambani’s recognition symbolised not only her leadership but also the collective efforts of countless individuals working under her foundation to bring meaningful change.
Over the years, her initiatives have focused on uplifting underserved communities—providing access to quality education, improving healthcare delivery in rural areas, supporting women to become self-reliant, and nurturing young sporting talent across the country. Her approach combines scale with empathy, ensuring that development is both impactful and inclusive.
The KISS Humanitarian Award is regarded as a tribute to individuals who dedicate their lives to social progress, and this year’s recognition of Nita Ambani underscores the growing importance of corporate-led philanthropy in shaping India’s development journey.
As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: meaningful change is possible when vision meets action, and when influence is used to uplift those who need it most.
