8, Apr 2026
New GeoTech Centre to Strengthen Maharashtra’s Disaster Response
Apr 8: At a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the state gave approval for setting up the Maharashtra Geotechnology Application Centre (MahaGeoTech). This new centre will use modern geospatial technology to support better planning, monitor environmental changes, and improve response during emergencies.
In addition, a resilience programme has also been cleared to enhance the state’s readiness for natural disasters and climate-related challenges. The programme will focus on improving coordination between departments and ensuring quicker, more effective action during crises.
Officials believe that these initiatives will help the government make more informed decisions and respond faster in critical situations. For the people of Maharashtra, this means improved safety, better planning, and stronger support during emergencies.
Overall, the move reflects the government’s growing focus on using technology to build a safer, more prepared, and future-ready state.
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- By Neel Achary
8, Apr 2026
Smart Tech Boost for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains in Northeast
Apr 8: In a step towards modernizing railway operations, Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has introduced advanced technology to maintain Vande Bharat Sleeper trains more efficiently.
The new system is designed to closely monitor the condition of trains, helping engineers detect issues early and carry out timely maintenance. This not only improves the overall performance of the trains but also ensures a smoother and safer journey for passengers.
With the introduction of these modern tools, routine checks are becoming faster and more accurate. Railway officials say this will reduce delays caused by technical problems and improve the reliability of services.
For passengers, this means greater comfort and peace of mind while travelling on Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. Clean, well-maintained coaches and fewer disruptions are expected to enhance the overall travel experience.
The move reflects Indian Railways’ growing focus on using smart technology to deliver better, more dependable services, while keeping passenger safety and convenience at the centre of its efforts.
8, Apr 2026
Odisha Strengthens Urban Water Infrastructure Under AMRUT 2.0
Apr 8: Odisha has emerged as a leading performer in the implementation of the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, making steady progress in improving urban water infrastructure across the state.
As part of the initiative, seven new water treatment plants with a total capacity of 43 million litres per day have been made operational. These facilities are now supplying cleaner and safer drinking water to nearly 2.83 lakh residents, significantly improving their daily lives.
The progress reflects the state’s strong focus on ensuring reliable water supply in urban areas. With better infrastructure in place, many families are now experiencing improved access to clean water, which is essential for health and overall well-being.
Officials believe that these efforts mark an important step toward building more sustainable and livable cities, while also strengthening public trust in essential services.
8, Apr 2026
Johnson’s Baby Partners with Zee5 to Launch ‘Mom Talks’ with Parineeti Chopra
Chandigarh, Apr 08: Motherhood today sits between deeply rooted traditions and rapidly evolving trends. From advice passed down by family to information consumed through digital platforms, new moms are constantly navigating multiple, often conflicting voices. With an aim to address dilemmas faced by modern parents, Johnson’s® Baby has partnered with Zee5 to present ‘Mom Talks’—a first-of-its-kind parenting talk show hosted by actor and new-age mom Parineeti Chopra.
As a brand which has partnered with parents for generations for over 130 years to care for their babies, Johnson’s® Baby furthers its commitment by co-creating a platform for meaningful and relevant conversations around modern day parenting. Rooted in decades of paediatric science and deep consumer understanding, the brand brings alive parenting mantras, evolving choices, and real challenges, addressing longstanding myths through credible, expert led and science backed insights that parents can rely on with confidence.
The show was unveiled at an immersive, first-of-its-kind cruise event that brought together influencers, media, and parenting communities for an exclusive preview of the show. The event saw an engaging panel discussion with leading mommy influencers, Snehalata Jain and Tanvi Thakker along with Dr. Dilip Tripathi, Head of R&D Baby at Kenvue India (Makers of Johnson’s Baby) as they delved into modern parenting, trends v/s traditions and key truths related to science backed skincare routines to protect a baby’s delicate & developing skin and how to choose the best baby products aligned to evolving expectations of parents today. The engaging discussion was followed by Parineeti Chopra sharing her personal experiences of parenthood, the importance of authentic conversations and building a community of moms as she unveiled the new show.
Speaking at the launch event, Parineeti Chopra said, “Every mom has a story about her parenting journey. With this show, in every episode we will spotlight these stories which every mom will relate to.”
Elaborating on this, Dr. Dilip Tripathi said, “For over a century, Johnson’s® Baby has been guided by science and a deep responsibility towards parents and their babies. Our formulations are developed based on decades of research in baby skin biology and are designed to meet our stringent standards of safety and mildness. Today’s parents are more informed than ever, they actively research baby care, but are also faced with information overload, conflicting advice, and enduring myths. Through our association with Mom Talks, Johnson’s® Baby aims to bridge the gap between credible science and everyday parenting practices, empowering parents to make confident, well-informed choices for their little ones.”
At the heart of this collaboration is Johnson’s® Baby’s promise of ‘Helps Protect from Day 1[1]’—now reinforced with its new formulations, thoughtfully designed to be better for mums, babies and planet. The new and improved range is enriched with purposeful and natural ingredients like Aloe Vera and Vitamin B5, complemented by sustainable, transparent packaging designed for today’s conscious parents.
With this collaboration, Johnson’s® Baby aims to deepen its connection with new-age mothers by combining trusted care with contemporary conversations. By blending content, community, and credible expertise, Johnson’s® Baby continues to evolve its legacy, positioning itself not just as a trusted choice for gentle and effective baby care, but as a dependable partner in a parent’s journey from Day 1.
Mom Talks with Johnson’s® Baby, streaming exclusively on Zee5, is a multi-episode series that explores distinct dimensions of modern parenting. The series opens with Miracles of Motherhood, celebrating the emotional journey of becoming parents, followed by conversations such as Modern Moms vs Tradition, which examines the balance between generational wisdom and contemporary parenting approaches. Another key episode, Fatherhood Stereotypes, features Imran Khan in a candid conversation on redefining the role of fathers today, with the season culminating in a finale that brings together diverse voices to celebrate the evolving Indian parenting journey. The series will be seen every Friday and Saturday from April 4, 2026 onwards.
8, Apr 2026
The Tale of Scrawny Billy J. by Andrew Biel, now available from Histria Books
Apr 08: Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of The Tale of Scrawny Billy J. by Andrew Biel and illustrated by Robin Dorn. This story is published by Histria Kids, an imprint of Histria Books dedicated to outstanding works for children that both educate and entertain.
At first glance, The Tale of Scrawny Billy J. looks like a classic children’s story about a skinny kid who wishes he was strong. But author Andrew Biel takes the standard confidence fable in a completely unexpected direction. When young Billy stumbles into a circus sideshow to meet the Marvelous Ms. Muscles, he does not receive a magical potion or a vague pep talk. Instead, he gets a surprisingly accurate, incredibly fun lesson in biomechanics.
The story uses playful rhymes to introduce kids to their masseters and gluteals, moving body positivity away from abstract concepts and grounding it in actual human physiology. Children learn that real strength is about understanding the functional machinery they already possess. It is a smart, practical approach to self-esteem that treats kids like intelligent readers.
Praise for The Tale of Scrawny Billy J:
“Biel’s rhymes scan well throughout, and his focus on how muscles are for daily activities reinforces the idea that anyone can achieve healthy living. Dorn’s painted illustrations are the standout, depicting both the weirdness of the circus and activated muscles in every day activity. The images don’t feel like diagrams―they move the story forward in addition to highlighting anatomy.” — Kirkus Reviews
Andrew Biel was once a skinny kid like his protagonist Billy J., convinced he had no muscles until he accidentally discovered one under his armpit. He went on to learn much more about anatomy, writing the best-selling textbook Trail Guide to the Body, and today uses his muscles to kayak, cross-country ski, and hike. The book is brought to life by Robin Dorn, a painter and scientific illustrator specializing in human anatomy, who enjoys keeping in touch with her whimsical side through vibrant characters like Ms. Muscles.
The Tale of Scrawny Billy J. by Andrew Biel, 36 pp., ISBN 978-1-59211-694-2 is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. This title is also available as an eBook. Titles published under the imprints of Histria Books are distributed in the United States and Canada by Simon & Schuster and in the rest of the world through Unified Book Distribution.
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8, Apr 2026
Odisha’s New Budget Sets Path for Growth and Better Connectivity
The Odisha government has taken a new step to help people better understand the state budget. Speaking at the launch of the awareness program “Ame Janiba, Ama Budget” (Let Us Understand Our Budget), Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that a budget is not just about numbers—it is about the dreams and development of every citizen.
ବଜେଟ କେବଳ ଆୟ-ବ୍ୟୟର ତାଲିକା ନୁହେଁ, ବରଂ ଏହା ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ସମଗ୍ର ଉନ୍ନତି ସହ ପ୍ରତ୍ୟେକ ନାଗରିକଙ୍କ ସ୍ୱପ୍ନ ପୂରଣର ଏକ ସୁଦୃଢ଼ ରୋଡମ୍ୟାପ୍ ବୋଲି ରାଜ୍ୟସ୍ତରୀୟ ବଜେଟ ସଚେତନତା କର୍ମଶାଳା ‘ଆମେ ଜାଣିବା, ଆମ ବଜେଟ’ ଅବସରରେ ମାନ୍ୟବର ମୁଖ୍ୟମନ୍ତ୍ରୀ ଶ୍ରୀ ମୋହନ ଚରଣ ମାଝୀ କହିଛନ୍ତି ।
ରାଜ୍ୟସ୍ତରୀୟ ବଜେଟ ସଚେତନତା କର୍ମଶାଳା:-
— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 7, 2026
To make the budget more accessible, awareness workshops will be held from April 1 to April 14 across the state, reaching even the Panchayat level. The goal is to explain the budget in simple language so that common people can understand how government plans impact their daily lives.
The Chief Minister highlighted that this year’s budget is 7% higher than last year, showing a strong focus on growth and development. He also shared that the 2026–27 budget aims to make Odisha a key logistics and connectivity hub in eastern India.
The initiative reflects the government’s effort to build a more transparent and people-friendly system, where citizens are informed and involved in the development process.
Through this campaign, the government hopes to bring the budget closer to the people and ensure that its benefits reach every corner of the state.
8, Apr 2026
Plumelet by Victoria Fomina, now available from Histria Books
Apr 08: Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of Plumelet by Victoria Fomina. This story is published by Histria Kids, an imprint of Histria Books dedicated to outstanding works for children that both educate and entertain.
Princess Plumelet is a spoiled royal who thinks nothing of ruining a guest’s dinner with a fistful of hot pepper. But when the victim turns out to be a shape-shifting enforcer from the Ministry of Proper Behavior, Plumelet is cursed and swept away to a monochromatic tower made of antennas and mathematical spirals.
Victoria Fomina’s picture book Plumelet takes the familiar framework of a bratty child learning her lesson and injects it with wild architectural surrealism. It is a visually arresting dreamscape where punishment means navigating mirrored corridors, negotiating personal space with a giant floating mouth, and confronting flocks of weeping eyes. Fomina’s collage art blends classical folklore with satellites, surveillance cameras, and sharp modern humor. It offers a wonderfully bizarre, edgy alternative for families tired of standard fables and ready for something weirder and infinitely more stylish.
Praise for Plumelet:
“In this fascinating picture book Victoria creates a new universe, infinite and colorful, inhabited by surprising characters, sometimes a little frightening, sometimes funny – that’s what children usually like enormously.”– Anastasia Arkhipova, ex-vice President of The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY)
Victoria Fominais an internationally acclaimed artist and illustrator of more than fifty books. Born on the Black Sea coast among ancient ruins, she brings a rich historical aesthetic to projects ranging from classic fairy tales to composer biographies. She collaborates with top global clients like Penguin Random House, Vogue, and What on Earth Publishing with His Majesty King Charles III. Her award-winning artwork has been featured in eighty exhibitions across seventeen countries.
Plumelet by Victoria Fomina, 44 pp., ISBN (Hardcover) 978-1-59211-664-5, ISBN (Paperback) 978-1-59211-664-5, is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. This title is also available in Hardcover and as an eBook. Titles published under the imprints of Histria Books are distributed in the United States and Canada by Simon & Schuster and in the rest of the world through Unified Book Distribution.
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8, Apr 2026
Aroma Magic Unveils Revamped Essential Oils, Launches Peptide Potion & Vita Boost for Professionals
Timeless Ritual, Now in a New Look: Aroma Magic Relaunches Its Signature Essential Oils and Introduces Peptide Potion & Vita Boost for Salon Professionals
Bhopal, April 8: Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic, the premier aromatherapy company in India, proudly announced the relaunch of its iconic range of essential oils, now presented in an all-new, elegant avatar. Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Founder and Chairperson of Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, while addressing a press conference in Bhopal, spoke about the essential oils and also introduced the newly launched Peptide Potion and Vita Boost kits, designed for advanced facials in salons.
“Essential oils are said to be the soul of plants—highly concentrated molecules extracted from various parts of the plants like leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds. Our essential oils are more than just beauty or wellness products,” said Dr. Blossom Kochhar. “They have amazing abilities to calm, beautify, energize, balance, and harmonize the human mind, body, and soul.”
She also announced the launch of new facial kits for salon professionals in Bhopal and highlighted the use of the Peptide Potion kit and Vita Boost facial kit. Explaining the kits, Dr. Blossom Kochhar said, “The Peptide & Ceramide Potion Advanced Serum Mask Kit is my unique signature offering and a special creation for the salon and spa industries. Peptides help build proteins, improve skin elasticity, and boost cell regeneration, enhancing the client’s skin in just a few steps. Today, I am addressing salon professionals and introducing these kits so that they can give exceptional facials to their clients.” The Multi-Peptide & Ceramide Complex makes skin more supple by minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. It boosts hydration and supports collagen production, making it an exceptional anti-aging facial treatment.
While the look of essential oils has evolved, the soul of the product remains unchanged—100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils, crafted with love, care, and nature’s finest extractions. Fifteen oils are now available in new 10 ml packaging and include Lavender, Basil, Sandalwood, Rose, Neroli, Lemongrass, Tea Tree, Ylang Ylang, and more.
8, Apr 2026
transcosmos to hire top athletes as new graduates through Athnavi, a job support program by JOC
Tokyo, Japan, Apr 08: transcosmos announced its decision to hire two new graduates—top athletes striving to win on the world stage—through Athnavi, an employment support website administered by the Japan Olympic Committee (JOC). By incorporating athletes’ challenging spirit into the corporate culture, transcosmos aims to invigorate the organization and promote diversity in the workplace.
By hiring top athletes who demonstrate a challenging spirit, persistence, and a strong will to grow, transcosmos aims to transform every employee’s mindset and further invigorate the organization. transcosmos believes that athletes’ commitment to realizing their dreams will inspire employees and, in turn, lead to the company’s growth.
Prospective employee profile
Athlete Name: Misaki Nobata Sport: Shooting/Rifle shooting
Major Results:
| – Jul 2024 | Olympic Games Paris 2024 | #12 10m Air Rifle Women |
| #25 10mn Air Rifle Mixed Team | ||
| – Oct 2024 | SAGA2024 The National Sports Festival (Oita) | #2 10mn Air Rifle Women |
| #1 10mn Air Rifle Mixed Team | ||
| – Nov 2024 | National Shooting Sports Championship (Saitama) | #1 10mn Air Rifle Women |
| – Aug 2025 | Asian Shotgun Cup (Kazakhstan) | #3 50mn Rifle 3 Positions Women |
| #2 50m Rifle 3 Positions Mixed Team | ||
| – Nov 2025 | ISSF 2025 World Championship (Egypt) | #8 50mn Rifle 3 Positions Women |
| – Jan 2026 | H&N Cup (Germany) | #2 10mn Air Rifle Women |
– As of Mar 2026: Official national record holder (score: 633.7)
Comment: To achieve my goal of winning a medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics, I will continue to challenge myself along with all employees. Although there are setbacks in shooting, I will devote myself wholeheartedly, believing that my dream will come true if I do not give up and continue making sincere efforts, while always remaining grateful to everyone around me. At the same time, I also hope to continue growing as a person and as a member of society.
Athlete Name: Mako Hiraizumi Sport: Triathlon
Major Results:
| – Feb 2025 | World Triathlon Championship Series (Abu Dhabi) | #31 Elite Women, #7 Mixed Relay |
| – Feb 2025 | Asia Triathlon Cup (Putrajaya) | #2 Elite Women |
| – May 2025 | World Triathlon Championship Series (Yokohama) | #40 Elite Women |
| – Aug 2025 | Asia Triathlon Championships (Istanbul) | #6 Elite Women |
| – Oct 2025 | World Triathlon Championship Finals (Wollongong) | #15 U23 Women |
| – Oct 2025 | Triathlon Japan National Championship (Tokyo) | #3 Championship Women |
| – Nov 2025 | World Triathlon Cup (Florianopolis) | #10 Elite Women |
Comment: I am deeply grateful to transcosmos for providing an environment in which I can continue my competitive career. Going forward, I will strive for growth and results as an athlete while contributing to the company and society, always keeping in mind my responsibility as a member of society. I will do my best to give back through my performance, with constant appreciation for all those who have supported me to date.
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8, Apr 2026
ISACA Foundation Global Scholarship Program Expands to Equip Next-Gen Professionals
