9, Mar 2026
Shree Cement Appoints Rachana Sharma as Head of Environment
Shree Cement Limited, one of India’s leading cement manufacturers with a strong focus on sustainability and responsible growth, has announced the appointment of Ms. Rachana Sharma as Head-Environment.
With over two decades of experience in environment management and sustainability, Rachana Sharma brings deep domain expertise across the cement and large infrastructure sectors. She has led environmental governance, regulatory compliance and sustainability programmes across complex operations, delivering measurable outcomes. Prior to joining Shree Cement, she served as Head Environment at JSW Cement, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening environmental management systems and advancing sustainability-led initiatives.
Welcoming her to the organisation, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement, said,
“We are pleased to welcome Rachana Sharma as Head Environment at Shree Cement. As sustainability becomes central to our growth strategy, with sharper focus on decarbonisation, resource efficiency and environmental stewardship, this role assumes significant strategic importance. Rachna’s brings strong domain expertise and proven leadership in environmental governance. Her experience will meaningfully advance our vision of responsible manufacturing and long-term value creation.”
Commenting on her appointment, Rachana Sharma, Head – Environment, Shree Cement, said,
“I am excited to join Shree Cement at a pivotal phase of its growth journey, where sustainability and operational excellence are closely aligned. The company’s disciplined approach to responsible manufacturing presents a strong platform to drive measurable environmental outcomes. I look forward to working with teams across the organisation to strengthen governance, enhance compliance frameworks, and advance sustainability.”
With this appointment, Shree Cement continues to strengthen its leadership capabilities in line with its sustainability priorities.
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- By Neel Achary
9, Mar 2026
International Women’s Day 2026_&TV Artists Embraces Every Role a Woman Plays with Give To Gain
This International Women’s Day, &TV celebrates the many roles women play in their lives with the inspiring theme #GiveToGain. The campaign highlights the idea that when women give—whether it is love, mentorship, strength, or opportunity—they gain growth, resilience, and purpose in return.
A woman navigates countless roles through her lifetime, balancing responsibilities while nurturing dreams—both her own and those of others. Reflecting this powerful journey, &TV’s leading ladies Akshaya Naik, Priyamvada Kant, Geetanjali Mishra, and Shilpa Shinde share their personal perspectives on what #GiveToGain means to them.
Akshaya Naik, who plays Eena in &TV’s upcoming show Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan, says, “As an actor, my days are long and demanding, but beyond the camera, I am also a daughter, a friend, and someone who values personal relationships deeply. Being a woman means constantly shifting roles—from memorising scripts on set to being emotionally present for my family. I have realised that every time I give my time, patience, or encouragement to someone, I grow stronger within. #GiveToGain resonates with me because when we support another woman’s dreams, we gain collective strength. This Women’s Day, I want to inspire young girls to break barriers and believe they are capable of anything.”
Sharing her thoughts, Priyamvada Kant, who portrays Latika in Gharwali Pedwali, says, “In my life, I play many roles—an actor committed to her craft, a daughter responsible toward her family, and a woman constantly learning and evolving. There are days when balancing everything feels overwhelming, but that is where a woman’s true strength lies. For me, #GiveToGain means giving kindness, guidance, and opportunities whenever possible. When we uplift another woman, we gain confidence and unity. Empowerment begins when we stand by each other.”
Reflecting on the significance of the theme, Geetanjali Mishra, who plays Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “Being a woman means wearing multiple hats effortlessly. On-screen, I bring laughter to audiences, but off-screen, I am a daughter who draws inspiration from her mother’s resilience and strength. I have seen how much women give emotionally and physically to keep their families together. #GiveToGain reminds me that while we give so much, we also gain wisdom, courage, and the ability to inspire others. This Women’s Day, let us give education to girls, respect to women in every field, and encouragement to those who doubt themselves because every small act of support creates lasting change.”
Adding to the celebration, Shilpa Shinde, who plays Angoori Bhabi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai!, says, “Over the years, I have balanced my career, personal life, and social responsibilities, and I truly believe that being a woman is about embracing every role with heart and determination. We are caregivers at home, professionals at work, and pillars of strength for our loved ones. Sometimes we forget to acknowledge how much we handle every day. I am proud to be part of &TV’s ‘Selfie Lo. Shine Karo. Star Ban Jaao!’ campaign this Women’s Day. It encourages women to pause, click a selfie at the special crown mirror installation, and see themselves as confident, independent, and powerful. A simple moment of self-celebration can turn into a star moment. When women share experiences, mentor others, or simply offer support, we create a powerful circle of empowerment.”
Tune in to &TV every Monday to Friday to enjoy your favourite shows—Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 9:30 PM, Gharwali Pedwali at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai! at 10:30 PM. Viewers can also stream all episodes anytime on ZEE5.
9, Mar 2026
Akshar Yoga Kendraa Launches PURANTHA, a Global Centre for Advanced Yogic Sciences in Bengaluru
The campus aims to train 100,000 yoga teachers annually through structured yogic education
Bengaluru, India | Mar 09— Akshar Yoga Kendraa has announced the launch of PURANTHA, a Himalayan-origin centre dedicated to advanced yoga and spiritual science. Conceptualised under the vision of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, the new campus has been developed near Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Spread across about 165,000 square feet, the facility has been designed to train 100,000 yoga teachers each year, responding to the rising global demand for structured and authentic yoga education.
PURANTHA has been established as a space for deeper engagement with Himalayan yogic sciences and Siddha traditions, combining practice, study, and research within one environment. The campus brings together several aspects of yogic learning, including advanced practice modules, teacher education programs, and applied study of traditional knowledge systems.
The design of the centre allows different disciplines to function alongside one another. Facilities have been created for yogic training, meditation, prāṇāyāma, Ayurveda, research and development, and residential learning. With its scale and layout, the campus is intended to support sustained practice and long-term study without interruption between different activities.
All training and educational programs at PURANTHA are conducted under the guidance of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar through Akshar Yoga Kendraa, an institution recognised by the Ministry of AYUSH under the Yoga Institution category. The centre has been developed with an emphasis on disciplined learning, methodological clarity, safety, and continuity of practice.
Speaking on the launch, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar said: “PURANTHA has been envisioned as a space where the depth of Himalayan yogic traditions can be preserved, studied and practiced through a structured institutional framework. The intention is to support practitioners and teachers from across the world who wish to explore yoga as a science of inner evolution.”
Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of AYUSH; Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, said on the launch: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Akshar Yoga Kendraa on the launch of PURANTHA, a Himalayan-origin centre dedicated to advanced yoga and spiritual science. I commend Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar and the entire Akshar Yoga community for this inspiring initiative, which will further strengthen India’s leadership in yoga and holistic wellness across the world.”
The campus is also intended to serve as a global platform for the structured transmission of Himalayan yogic and spiritual knowledge. Through residential training programs, institutional collaborations, and international participation, PURANTHA aims to contribute to the continued study and dissemination of yogic sciences across diverse cultural and educational contexts.
8, Mar 2026
Swaranjali to Host ‘Baithaki’ – An Evening of Indian Classical Music in West Bengal on March 14
Swaranjali, an organization dedicated to promoting Indian classical music and culture, is set to present “Baithaki – An Evening of Indian Classical Music” on March 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Barasat 5 Number Panna Jhil (Upasana Sanskritik Charcha Kendra), West Bengal. The event marks a special celebration as Swaranjali commemorates 25 years of its cultural journey.
The musical evening will feature renowned and emerging artists performing various forms of Indian classical music. The program includes Smt. Chandana Chakraborty, who will present Tagore songs, Ms. Haimantika Dutta performing Raag Pradhan, Smt. Soma Bhaduri showcasing Khayal, and Shri Akhil Roy on the Santoor, offering a rich instrumental performance.
The event will also include contributions from co-artists Shri Tapas Guha Thakurata, Pabir Saha, and Shri Pintu Roy, adding depth and accompaniment to the performances.
Organizers say the Baithaki format aims to recreate the traditional intimate setting of classical music gatherings, allowing audiences to experience the nuances and emotional depth of Indian classical traditions. The evening is expected to attract music enthusiasts, cultural patrons, and local audiences interested in classical and semi-classical forms.
Swaranjali, which has been working for over two decades to promote Indian music and arts, continues to organize concerts, workshops, and cultural exchanges to nurture appreciation for classical traditions.
For further information and RSVP, organizers have shared contact numbers 9910300319, 9831367216, and 6291948076, and additional details are available at www.swaranjali.org.
8, Mar 2026
PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026 Hosts 500+ Participants for Strategic Technology and Policy Dialogue
Hyderabad, March 08, 2026: A full-day, power-packed PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, bringing together national leaders in technology, governance and industry, was held on Sunday at The Westin, Madhapur in the city. More than 250 participants attended the summit. The event was organised by PanIIT Alumni India, the umbrella organisation representing more than five lakh IIT alumni.
Shri Etela Rajender, Member of Parliament, inaugurated the summit. Speaking on the occasion, he said the IIT ecosystem is helping spread high-quality science and technology education across India. Collaboration among ecosystem players and research and development institutions will further strengthen the innovation landscape, he noted.
He said Indian talent in science and technology enjoys global demand, and Indians have immensely contributed to the tremendous technological growth of the United States of America, which is known for its technological superiority. However, he observed that the same country is now trying to dominate others in certain spheres. Addressing the IIT talent pool assembled at the summit, he asked, “Why should we not use the same talent and power to make India even stronger?”
Reiterating his message, he said, “India’s scientific and technological talent has global demand—let us use it to strengthen our nation.” He also urged the community to build technology for construction and development rather than for destruction.
Speaking on Healthcare Transformation in India, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, CEO, National Health Authority, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, highlighted the challenges of fragmented healthcare systems. He noted that multiple health identities for a single citizen and lack of integration lead to high Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE).
He explained that India’s healthcare ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation. “From a fragmented healthcare system, we are now moving towards an intelligent and productive ecosystem,” he said. Through India Stack, India has become the first country to implement all three core Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs): digital identity, real-time payments and consent-based data sharing.
He added that in 2020, the Hon’ble Prime Minister announced the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which leverages digital public infrastructure to facilitate interoperability in digital health transactions. ABDM is now becoming the digital backbone of Indian healthcare.
Referring to Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), he said its robust IT platforms and anti-fraud mechanisms enable nearly 20 lakh claims to be processed every month. “The infrastructure is now built. Data moves only with consent. Health systems are connected. We are now moving from digitised health to intelligent healthcare,” he said.
Speaking on Policy, Regulation and the Future of India’s Energy Infrastructure – Backbone of Industrial Expansion, Shri Navin Mittal, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Energy, Government of Telangana, shared insights into India’s and Telangana’s energy production and distribution landscape. He said solar energy generation during the day now surpasses thermal power in many instances.
He also highlighted potential petroleum supply challenges due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel, noting that about 85 percent of India’s petroleum requirements are imported. He pointed out that electric vehicles have significantly lower operational costs compared to conventional vehicles.
He further stated that in December 2025, India’s renewable installed capacity crossed conventional power capacity for the first time in history, marking a major milestone in the country’s energy transition.
Speaking on Digital Governance and Public Technology Transformation, Shri Bhavesh Mishra, IAS, Special Secretary, IT & Electronics Department, Government of Telangana, explained how Hyderabad has overtaken Bengaluru to become India’s top destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). Citing a study by UnearthInsights, he said Hyderabad accounted for 46 percent of all new GCCs, while Bengaluru captured 33 percent between January and November 2025.
He said the city currently hosts around 60 GCCs, with another 25 in expansion, and highlighted that Hyderabad has emerged as a major hub for IT, GCCs, pharmaceuticals, defence and aerospace sectors.
He also spoke about OpenClaw and the rise of the “One-Person Unicorn.” OpenClaw, an open-source autonomous AI assistant developed by software engineer Peter Steinberger in 2025, demonstrates the emerging concept of a one-person unicorn. Built by a single developer, OpenClaw can autonomously perform tasks such as managing files, sending messages, writing code and interacting with digital services using advanced AI models. The project quickly gained global attention. Its rapid success highlights how AI-powered tools are enabling individual innovators to build impactful, globally scalable technologies, signalling a new era where a single entrepreneur could potentially build billion-dollar innovations.
He also referred to ancient Indian scholar Pāṇini, regarded as one of the greatest linguists in history. His work Aṣṭādhyāyī, consisting of around 4,000 grammatical rules, created a highly systematic and scientific framework for the Sanskrit language.
Shri Prabhat Kumar, IRS, Chairman, PanIIT Alumni India, said IITians have played a significant role not only in nation building in India but also in the development of many countries worldwide. He noted that the United States is the largest importer of IIT talent, and IITians have contributed significantly to global technology leadership.
He also referred to the recent AI Summit, where IITians played a major role. He mentioned that French President Emmanuel Macron recently observed that many global CEOs of multinational companies are Indians and IITians. He described the PanIIT Summit as a convergence of brilliant minds and added that Hyderabad, known as the City of Pearls, would ensure that participants take back a “pearl of wisdom” by the end of the summit.
Welcoming the gathering and setting the tone for the summit, Shri Sudhakar Gande, Convener, PanIIT Hyderabad Summit 2026, said Hyderabad is among the most dynamic and fastest-growing cities in India. Nearly 46 percent of GCCs are located in the city, and about 16 percent of India’s software exports originate from Hyderabad, with the city growing three times faster than the national average. He also noted that around 25 percent of Fortune 500 companies are headed by IIT alumni.
A panel discussion titled “Tradition Meets Transformation: The IIT Growth Story” was moderated by Shri Amitabh Ranjan, Registrar, IIPA. The panelists included Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad; Prof. Venkappayya R. Desai, Director, IIT Dharwad; and Prof. Mahendrakumar Madhavan, Dean, IIT Hyderabad.
The moderator observed that India possesses a rich knowledge tradition spanning thousands of years, from Aryabhatta and Sushruta to remarkable engineering feats such as the Ram Setu. He noted that India’s civilisational heritage remains unmatched and emphasised the Prime Minister’s vision that 200 years of colonial influence must be intellectually decolonised by 2047 as India moves towards Viksit Bharat.
He also pointed out that since their inception in 1951, IITs have helped create lakhs of direct jobs in India.
Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, said India’s education system and the IIT ecosystem have evolved from science to applied science, to engineering and advanced technology, playing a critical role in national development.
Prof. Venkappayya R. Desai, Director, IIT Dharwad, cited examples from Singapore and the Netherlands on sustainable water management. He referred to Singapore’s NEWater initiative, where wastewater recycling has grown from 2.5 percent to nearly 40 percent of water supply, helping the country manage scarce resources effectively.
He also highlighted the Netherlands’ innovative water management practices, including floating infrastructure and advanced wastewater treatment technologies that allow water to be reused for agriculture, industry and environmental conservation. This circular water approach, he said, ensures that demand remains aligned with supply.
Prof. Mahendrakumar Madhavan, Dean, IIT Hyderabad, emphasised that IITs are no longer just teaching institutions but centres of innovation, invention and technology for humanity. He raised an important policy question, suggesting that spending on research and development should be considered under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and that CSR funds should be allowed to support R&D.
In another session on Healthcare Transformation in India, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, reiterated that technology, policy innovation and collaborative governance are reshaping India’s healthcare ecosystem, making quality healthcare more accessible and equitable for millions.
Dr. Tessy Thomas, former Director, DRDO, spoke on “Science, Strategy and Security.” She highlighted that space-based defence infrastructure will shape the future of global security, and that artificial intelligence will significantly influence how future wars are fought. She emphasised that the future of defence and aerospace will depend on how effectively India harnesses science and talent.
The summit featured focused thematic tracks addressing some of India’s most pressing opportunities, including: Infrastructure & Energy Leadership; Defence Innovation and Aatmanirbhar Bharat; Urban Infrastructure; Digital Transformation
And Healthcare & Life Sciences for Bharat
Eminent speakers from leading organisations such as DRDO, Microsoft India, NMDC, MIDHANI, Apollo Hospitals and Yashoda Hospitals shared their insights, alongside leaders from several high-growth startups and technology firms. Directors from IIT Dharwad and IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, as well as the Dean of IIT Hyderabad, participated in the discussions.
The summit served as a major convergence point for policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and members of the global IIT alumni network. It aimed to foster meaningful dialogue on innovation, technology-driven growth, infrastructure development and collaborative nation building, reinforcing the role of the IIT ecosystem as a strategic asset for India’s future.
Key sessions covered innovation ecosystems in emerging IITs, healthcare transformation in India, digital governance and public technology, and policy-driven industrial growth. Discussions also covered AI-driven innovation, startup growth strategies, resource security and large-scale infrastructure projects shaping modern India.
A dedicated startup session provided an opportunity for startups to pitch their ideas before angel investors and venture capitalists. This session was organised in collaboration with T-Hub and T-Works.
Shri Ashok Kumar, General Secretary, PanIIT, proposed the vote of thanks during the inaugural function.
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8, Mar 2026
Hyderabad Runs for a Greener Tomorrow at SBI Green Marathon Season 6 — Where Fitness Meets Sustainability
Hyderabad, March 8: After inspiring green movements across cities, including Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Jaipur, Patna, Mumbai and Chennai, the SBI Green Marathon Season 6 arrived in the dynamic city of Hyderabad. As the city welcomed a refreshing Sunday morning, Sukoon Grounds at the University of Hyderabad transformed into a vibrant hub of fitness, community spirit, and environmental awareness.
Surrounded by the serene green landscapes of the university campus, the Hyderabad edition perfectly embodied the marathon’s philosophy — “Run for a Greener India.” Known for its fast-growing fitness culture, enthusiastic running communities, and increasing focus on sustainable living, Hyderabad provided the perfect backdrop for this nationwide green movement.
Over 4,000+ enthusiastic participants — including professional runners, students, families, corporate teams, fitness groups, and defence personnel — gathered with a shared purpose: to celebrate health, endurance, and environmental responsibility. Each step taken on the course symbolized Hyderabad’s growing commitment toward a healthier lifestyle and a greener future.
The marathon was ceremoniously flagged off by esteemed dignitaries – Shri S. Radhakrishnan, Chief General Manager, Shri Ravi Kumar Verma, General Manager (Network-I), Shri Satish Kumar, General Manager (Network-II), Shri Pankaj Priyadarshi, DGM & CDO, Mr. Sushanta Panda – India Operations Head – Radio Mirchi, Mr. Ravi Chaitanya – South Head – Radio Mirchi, reaffirming the bank’s continued commitment to sustainability, community well-being, and nation-building through impactful initiatives that encourage positive environmental action.
Staying true to its eco-first philosophy, the SBI Green Marathon delivered a thoughtfully curated and environmentally responsible race experience:
• Organic T-shirts, plantable BIBs, and reusable cloth goodie bags promoted sustainable practices while reducing single-use waste.
• Dedicated waste management systems ensured responsible waste segregation and disposal, reinforcing the marathon’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Adding energy and excitement to the morning were Radio Mirchi’s RJ Chakshu and RJ Swathi, whose lively stage presence, engaging interactions, and motivational energy kept participants pumped and the crowd entertained throughout the event.
The marathon featured 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon categories, with AIMS-certified routes ensuring global-standard course accuracy, safety, and a smooth racing experience for runners of all levels. The scenic and green surroundings of the University of Hyderabad campus provided a refreshing and inspiring course that blended endurance with nature.
With every kilometre completed, Hyderabad reinforced the spirit of collective action for a sustainable tomorrow. From the energetic flag-off to the eco-friendly race arrangements and celebrations, the city proudly carried forward the mission of the SBI Green Marathon’s 17-city journey.
As SBI Green Marathon Season 6 continues its nationwide movement, Hyderabad stands tall — proving that when communities run together with purpose, every step brings India closer to a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future.
7, Mar 2026
Eastern Coalfields Limited Celebrates the Final Day of Annual Mines Safety Week 2025
Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), proudly organized the Final Day Celebration of the Annual Mines Safety Week – 2025 on 06th March 2026 at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Asansol, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to building a safer and more responsible mining ecosystem.
7, Mar 2026
SANY India Powers First-Ever All-Women Excavator Training Batch at National Academy of Construction, Andhra Pradesh
Mumbai / Hyderabad, Mar 07: In a landmark step towards gender inclusion and skill development in India’s construction sector, SANY India has enabled the first-ever all-women batch of excavator operators at the National Academy of Construction (NAC), Andhra Pradesh. The pioneering batch of 22 women trainees successfully completed their certification in March 2026, aligning with International Women’s Day and reinforcing the programme’s strong women-empowerment focus.
The comprehensive training programme was conducted on SANY SY120 excavator, with the machine facilitated by SANY India to NAC to support hands-on, industry-ready skilling. The training syllabus was designed by SANY India, ensuring alignment with global best practices and real-world operational requirements. To maintain the highest standards of training delivery, NAC trainers were trained and certified by SANY India before leading the programme for the women trainees.
Upon successful completion, the participants received certification under the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC) framework, strengthening their employability across infrastructure and construction projects nationwide. NAC will also facilitate placement support for all graduating trainees, enabling a smooth transition from training to employment.
Empowering Women, Building the Nation
This initiative reflects SANY India’s commitment to inclusive growth, skill development, and nation-building. By providing access to high-quality training, modern equipment, and recognized certification, the programme opens new pathways for women to enter and thrive in traditionally male-dominated roles, contributing directly to India’s infrastructure ambitions.
Key Highlights:
- First all-women excavator operator batch at NAC, Andhra Pradesh
- 22 women trainees receiving end-to-end professional training
- Hands-on learning on SANY SY120 Excavator, facilitated by SANY India
- Training syllabus, trainer training, and certification supported by SANY India
- Certification under the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC) framework
- Placement support by NAC for trainees post certification
- Programme completion aligned with International Women’s Day
Speaking on the initiative, Mr Sanjay Saxena, COO- SANY India said: “At SANY India, we believe true progress is inclusive. By empowering women with world-class skills and certification, we are not only shaping careers but also strengthening India’s construction ecosystem. This Women’s Day-aligned batch symbolizes opportunity, confidence, and capability.”
Certificate Handover Ceremony
The certificate handover ceremony was held on 6 March 2026 at the National Academy of Construction (NAC-AP), Pulivendula, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, marking the successful completion of the pioneering training batch.
Mr. Madhusudan Katragadda, Dealer Principal, Madhura Engineering Pvt. Ltd., attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest and handed over certificates to the graduating trainees.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Madhusudan Katragadda said: “It is truly an honour to be part of such a historic initiative. I sincerely appreciate SANY India and the National Academy of Construction for taking this bold step toward empowering women in the construction equipment industry. Excavator operations have traditionally been a male-dominated field, and this programme marks the first step in changing that narrative. Seeing these talented women successfully complete their training fills us with pride and optimism for the future of the industry. I encourage all the trainees to continue learning and growing—this certification is just the beginning. With dedication and experience, they can explore many opportunities within the sector, including roles in operations, sales, and service engineering.”
The graduating batch of 22 women trainees expressed immense pride and enthusiasm as they received their certifications, marking the beginning of their professional journeys in the construction equipment sector.
The event was also attended by Mr. Rakesh Mekala, Assistant Director, National Academy of Construction, Kadapa District, along with NAC faculty and staff. Representatives from SANY India were also present on the occasion to celebrate the milestone and congratulate the trainees on their successful completion of the programme.
The ceremony concluded on a positive and inspiring note, symbolizing a significant step forward in promoting gender diversity and inclusive skill development in India’s construction industry.
7, Mar 2026
Taiwan Researchers Develop Fluorescent Imaging That Could Make Tumor-Guided Surgery Easier to Adopt
During cancer surgery, one of the most challenging decisions surgeons face is identifying exactly where a tumor ends and healthy tissue begins. To the naked eye, cancer tissue often looks very similar to surrounding tissue, making it challenging to resect tumors completely without damaging healthy areas. As a result, studies across multiple cancer types suggest that 20–30% of patients may require additional treatment or repeat surgery due to unclear tumor margins.
Researchers led by Professor Li-Feng Liu from the School of Medicine at I-Shou University are developing a new imaging approach designed to make tumor boundaries visibly distinguishable during surgery, giving surgeons clearer guidance at the moment it matters most.
The method builds on a simple biological insight: cancer cells consume far more sugar than normal cells because they grow rapidly. Professor Liu’s team developed a fluorescent sugar-based imaging agent that exploits this behavior. When administered before surgery, the agent is taken up more readily by tumor tissue than by surrounding healthy cells.
During the operation, surgeons illuminate the surgical area using a simple ultraviolet light. Tumor tissue then emits visible fluorescence, creating a clear visual contrast that helps surgeons identify tumor boundaries in real time as they remove the cancer while preserving healthy tissue.
What sets this approach apart is its ease of adoption. Many existing fluorescence-guided systems rely on complex imaging platforms and specialized equipment that are not available in every operating room. In contrast, this method works with widely available light sources, integrates smoothly into existing surgical workflows, and is designed to be non-toxic and safe for intraoperative use.
By lowering technical and operational barriers, the technology could help extend tumor-guided surgery beyond major medical centers. Potential applications include regional hospitals, minimally invasive procedures, and veterinary oncology, where access to advanced imaging infrastructure may be limited.
As Professor Liu and his team continue to evaluate the technology across different tumor types and surgical settings, their goal is to make precision-guided cancer surgery easier to adopt, more widely accessible, and safer for patients. Readers interested in the science behind the innovation and its real-world potential can learn more by exploring the full press release and watching the accompanying video, which illustrates how the technology works in practice.
7, Mar 2026
Women Investors Drive Surge in Premium Housing Demand, ANAROCK Survey Reveals
Mumbai, Mar 07: Indian women are increasingly making independent and high-value real estate investment decisions, with a growing preference for premium homes priced above ₹90 lakh, according to the latest H2 2025 Consumer Sentiment Survey by ANAROCK Group.
The survey reveals a sharp rise in women’s interest in higher-value residential properties. While only 25% of women preferred homes priced above ₹90 lakh in 2019, that number has now surged to 61%, indicating a major shift toward premium housing investments.
A detailed breakdown shows that 37% of aspiring women homebuyers prefer homes priced between ₹90 lakh and ₹1.5 crore, while 14% favour properties in the ₹1.5 crore to ₹2.5 crore range. Another 10% are looking at homes priced above ₹2.5 crore, reflecting the growing presence of high-net-worth women investors in the real estate market.
Commenting on the trend, Santhosh Kumar, Vice Chairman of ANAROCK Group, said:
“The modern Indian woman prefers brick and mortar over traditional FDs and gold on the back of their growing financial independence and hunger for high-yield assets. For 66% of women, real estate is now the ultimate investment vehicle. While gold and FDs still have a place, the stock market at just 3% — is barely on the radar. Women are not just saving for the future but casting it in concrete.”
Real Estate Tops Women’s Investment Preferences
The survey indicates that over 71% of women respondents prefer residential real estate as an investment, reinforcing property as the most trusted asset class. Meanwhile, the stock market has significantly lost appeal, with only 3% of women preferring it today compared to 20% in 2019.
Gold remains the second-most preferred investment option, with 18% of women favouring the asset class, up from 8% in 2019, while fixed deposits account for 13% of preferences.
The survey also shows a shift in buying intent. The end-use-to-investment ratio for women homebuyers currently stands at 71:29, compared to 77:23 in 2019, highlighting increasing investment-oriented purchases.
Women Prefer Larger Homes
Demand for larger homes continues to dominate women buyers’ preferences. According to the survey, over 54% of women prefer 3BHK homes, while 14% are inclined toward 4BHK homes or larger.
Interest in smaller homes continues to decline. Preference for 1BHK units has fallen to just 4% in H2 2025, compared to 8% in H2 2022, suggesting that women buyers are prioritising spacious living environments.
“Women homebuyers’ preference for spacious homes has remained consistent over the years,” added Santhosh Kumar. “The trend indicates a clear shift toward larger homes that support evolving lifestyle needs.”
Rising Interest in Newly Launched Properties
The survey further highlights a growing appetite for newly launched projects. Around 20% of women respondents now prefer newly launched properties, a significant increase from 9% in 2019.
Meanwhile, preference for ready-to-move-in homes has marginally declined to 32% from 33% earlier. The rising interest in new launches is also attributed to increased confidence in large and listed developers.
The ANAROCK Consumer Sentiment Survey polled 9,800 participants, including 4,900 women respondents, offering insights into evolving consumer behaviour and investment preferences in India’s residential real estate market.
