Author: Neel Achary

Star Health Launches 32 Arogya Seva Kendras; to Provide Primary Healthcare Access to over a Million Lives

Bangalore, Feb 24: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited one of India’s leading standalone health insurance companies, on Monday announced the launch of 32 Arogya Seva Kendra’s (ASK) across 9 states under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, aimed at strengthening access to community-level primary healthcare.

The ASK health clinics, being implemented in partnership with Piramal Swasthya, part of Piramal Foundation, will provide structured primary care services at Zero Cost to the patients. These services include doctor consultations, lab diagnostics that help in screening of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as Anaemia, Diabetes, Hypertension, etc. Additionally medicines, counselling and adult pneumococcal vaccination support will also be provided.

The Arogya Seva Kendras in Phase 1 will be launched across 32 key cities including Nagercoil, Thoothukudi, Tiruppur, Chennai and Karur in Tamil Nadu; Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi, Davanagere and Ballari in Karnataka; Nizamabad, Khammam, Karimnagar and Mahabubnagar in Telangana; Kurnool and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh; Rourkela and Berhampur in Odisha; Bathinda, Amritsar and Patiala in Punjab; Gorakhpur, Mathura, Prayagraj and Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh; Asansol and Siliguri in West Bengal; and Nashik, Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara and Akola in Maharashtra.

India continues to see rising burden of hypertension and diabetes; much of it remaining undiagnosed until advanced complications emerge. In districts across the nine participating states, hypertension prevalence ranges between approximately 20% – 40% among adults, with diabetes prevalence reaching nearly 29% in certain geographies.

Anand Roy, MD & CEO, Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited, said: “India’s healthcare conversation must begin within the community. We cannot hospitalise our way out of the non-communicable disease (NCD) crisis; and we believe primary care is where healthcare equity begins.

When screening, medicines and follow-up are consistently accessible, complications are prevented before they become catastrophic. Institutions across the healthcare ecosystem have a shared responsibility to strengthen this foundation. Through this CSR initiative, we are contributing to that collective effort, and ensuring primary healthcare reaches people early, reliably and close to where they live.”

Each ASK health clinic provides the following Free of Cost Services

• MBBS doctor consultations
• Screening for hypertension, diabetes and oral health conditions
• Laboratory diagnostics for Blood Sugar, Haemoglobin, RDT, etc.
• Medicines for common ailments and chronic conditions
• Health counselling and awareness sessions
• Pneumococcal vaccination support for eligible beneficiaries

ASK health clinics will operate with dedicated medical teams and defined service protocols to ensure continuity and structured follow-up with the patients.

Star Health is funding the capital and operational expenditure under its CSR allocation, while Piramal Swasthya will manage implementation, staffing and clinical governance.       

Ajay Piramal, Chairman, Piramal Group said: Over the past 17 years, Piramal Foundation has worked across India’s most challenging geographies, guided by deep community engagement and systems transformation. This CSR partnership with Star Health Insurance builds on that legacy – bringing trusted, comprehensive primary care closer to communities, impacting over a million lives through accessible consultations, diagnostics, and free medicines.”

Pneumococcal infections remain a significant contributor to respiratory disease burden and Pfizer, is enhancing the initiative with its knowledge and expertise in vaccination.

Saral Gupta, Director Market Access, Pfizer India said: “Adult immunization remains an overlooked yet vital component of India’s preventive healthcare framework. Our country bears 23% of the global burden of community-acquired pneumonia and strengthening access to vaccination, especially for high risk adult groups, is critical to lowering the overall impact of such vaccine preventable diseases.

We congratulate Star Health on making adult vaccination an integral part of their Arogya Seva Kendra initiative, and are pleased to continue supporting it with our expertise. “

Through this initiative we want to reach over a million lives.

The clinics have been in districts identified as having elevated NCD burden and gaps in primary healthcare access.

The Chennai launch marks the beginning of a structured, long-term CSR initiative focused on preventive, accessible and continuous primary healthcare delivery.

Alstom’s trains and ETCS signalling solutions inaugurated for the balance stretch of Namo Bharat RRTS corridor and Meerut Metro

Feb 24: Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, celebrates the commencement of commercial operations of the balance stretch of the  Namo Bharat corridor, India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) connecting Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut and the Meerut Metro, an urban Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) for the city of Meerut, powered by Alstom’s India-made trainsets and advanced ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G signalling solutions. The inauguration of the balance section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor includes sections connecting New Ashok Nagar to Sarai Kale Khan (5.5 km) and Meerut South to Modipuram (21 km) along with the Meerut Metro section (21 km). 

This milestone, spearheaded by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), is a significant step in enhancing urban mobility in the National Capital Region and intra-city commute for the residents of Meerut. This also makes Meerut Metro India’s first metro system to be powered by the European Train Control System (ETCS) Hybrid Level 3 signalling over Long-Term Evolution (LTE) 4G, a significant technological leap promising enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility. 

Commenting on the milestone, Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India said, “NCRTC created a breakthrough with RRTS and now Meerut Metro and we are proud to be their preferred partner in this journey. The opening of the complete corridor for RRTS and commencement of revenue service for Meerut Metro will unlock inter and intra city growth opportunities through this advanced urban rail network. It will be our endeavour to support NCRTC in this feat in every possible way.” 

Designed at Alstom’s Hyderabad engineering centre and manufactured at Savli (Gujarat), these trains are 100% made in India, in line with the government’s ‘Make-in-India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat ambition. The propulsion systems and electricals have been manufactured at Alstom’s facility in Maneja (Gujarat). 

Committed to support urban mobility with advanced solutions for the Meerut Metro project

The new Meerut Metro (MRTS) commuter trains provide an attractive sustainable choice for the promotion of public transport, with outstanding ergonomics, safety and comfort, low life cycle costs and high recyclability, while reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and fuel consumption. They will save travel costs and time, changing the lives of millions of citizens by connecting suburban places with the economic centre of the region. 

The MRTS trains, which are part of Alstom’s Adessia commuter train family offer passenger-centric amenities, including overhead luggage racks, information screens within the coaches, and USB sockets near the seats. They also feature wheelchair spaces for individuals with disabilities and stretcher space for emergency medical transfers. Emergency communication capabilities are integrated into the cars, designed, and manufactured in alignment with International Safety Standards.

The Meerut Metro Line covers a 21-km stretch, connecting Meerut South to Modipuram via 12 stations. Four stations on this line will integrate seamlessly with the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat RRTS, offering residents enhanced inter-city and intra-city travel. 

Providing world-class solutions for the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System

In 2020, Alstom was awarded the contract, with a scope of work including:

• Design, manufacture, and deliver 180 RRTS train cars (30 trainsets) and 30 MRTS train cars (10 trainsets) based on the Adessia commuter platform.
• Design, supply and install the signalling, train control and telecommunication system, platform screen door & LTE radio communication
• Provide comprehensive maintenance services for 15 years 

The primary purpose of this Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) is to relieve the traffic congestion in the national capital by enabling allowing faster commute between nearby satellite towns. Since 2002, after the opening of the first section of Delhi Metro , the metro network has grown at a rapid pace. The RRTS network will complement the metro. 

Alstom designed the train and unveiled it in September 2020. It is a game changer in the commuter and inter-regional rail transport space which is set to change the way India travels.

SITL 2026 Strengthens European Focus as International Exhibitor Presence Accelerates

March 31–April 2, 2026 | Paris Nord Villepinte – Hall

Feb 24: SITL 2026, one of Europe’s leading gatherings for transport and logistics professionals, returns this year with a reinforced European outlook and a notable increase in international participation. Under the theme “New territories to conquer,” the exhibition will provide decision‑makers with actionable insights and operational solutions as the continent navigates a pivotal moment for supply chain resilience and competitiveness. This year, international exhibitors represent 30% of the show floor, up from 25% in 2025, with 83% coming from Europe. Strong contingents from Germany (24 exhibitors), Spain (15), Italy (12), Belgium (11), the Netherlands (8), and Switzerland (5) underscore the growing need for coordinated European approaches to logistics transformation. Europe’s Logistics Outlook: A Sector Under Pressure European freight transport accounts for nearly 1,870 billion tonne‑kilometres, with a modest +1% to +3% recovery forecast across segments in 2025–2026. However, companies continue to face intense structural pressures:

• 400,000+ driver vacancies across Europe
• Escalating operational and compliance costs
• Rapid regulatory evolution and customs complexity
• Accelerated sustainability and emissions requirements
• These conditions are reshaping priorities across the continent, pushing logistics players to strengthen resilience, sovereignty, and interoperability. Europe Day: Turning Strategic Challenges into Practical Action Held on Tuesday, March 31, Europe Day will serve as the strategic anchor of SITL 2026. The half‑day program links EU‑level issues with on‑the‑ground execution, offering practical guidance for operators, exporters, carriers, ports, and corridor authorities. Program Highlights“Make Europe Compete Again!” 2:00–2:45 p.m. A debate on Europe’s competitiveness in a market increasingly dominated by non‑European players.
• “Compete globally, act locally: can it work for logistics?” 3:00–3:45 p.m. A discussion on the operational impact of TEN‑T corridors and the scale needed to boost performance.
• “Exporting today: time to relearn the basics?” 4:00–4:45 p.m. A practical exploration of customs fundamentals at a time of rising regulatory complexity.
• Paolo Rangoni, Logistics Director at COOP ALLEANZA 3.0, will speak during Europe Day. “Europe does not lack strengths — it lacks integration, speed, and discipline in execution. Making logistics a strategic capability is essential to regain competitiveness, resilience, and industrial sovereignty.” A Broader European Ecosystem on Display Throughout Hall 7, exhibitors will present solutions in automation, intralogistics, supply chain security, export support, and performance & compliance optimization. Confirmed international exhibitors include: Autoritat Portuària de Barcelona, GEBHARDT Fördertechnik GmbH, Troax Group AB, EP Equipment Europe, GAMMA WOPLA SA, PERIPASS, AR Racking S.A, ULMA Manutención S.Coop., CABKA Group GmbH, System Logistics, FS Logistix S.p.A, and PORTES BISBAL S.L. List as of 11 February 2026.Practical InformationOpening Hours:March 31: 09:00–20:00
• April 1: 09:00–19:00
• April 2: 09:00–17:00

Venue: Paris Nord Villepinte – Hall 7, ZAC Paris Nord 2, 93420 Villepinte, France

Mitsubishi Electric India hosts 6th ME Cup, Sona College of Technology emerges winner among 35 selected teams

Pune, 21st February, 2026: Mitsubishi Electric India, a global leader in Electric & Electronic Equipment, announced the winners of the 6th Mitsubishi Electric Cup on Saturday, 21st February 2026. The two-day National Level Automation Competition, returning after a five-year gap post Covid, saw 35 teams compete on the theme ‘Automating the World through Digital Innovation’. Organised annually, the competition challenges engineering students to design, build, and demonstrate innovative working models using Mitsubishi Electric factory automation technologies.

The virtual registration for the 6th Mitsubishi Electric Cup began in July 2025 and received 288 proposals from 140 institutions across 19 states and 2 Union Territories. Participating teams were mentored by Mitsubishi Electric India’s technical team and provided with essential Factory Automation products such as PLCs, HMIs, Servo Motors, VFDs, and CNCs to develop smart manufacturing solutions.

“The Mitsubishi Electric Cup’s core vision is to cultivate future-ready engineers who can innovate, automate, and contribute to a technologically advanced and sustainable world. The idea is to strengthen students’ innovative consciousness, cooperative spirit, and engineering practice abilities by encouraging hands on technological and automation-based projects,” said Mr. Atsushi Takase, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Electric India, speaking of the 2026 edition. “Response for the event was very positive, and quality of received proposals were in various domains such as IoT, Energy efficient automation, Smart manufacturing solutions, AgriTech, and Application-specific industry problems that are suitable for a host of industries, besides accruing social benefits like energy management and reusable waste management,” he added.

The competition featured innovative project models addressing areas such as building automation, industrial manufacturing processes, and societal challenges. Team “Nexus AI” from Sona College of Technology, Tamil Nadu, won the 6th Mitsubishi Electric Cup, receiving Rs. 1,00,000 and a Winner Trophy. “Recycron” from MKSSS Cummins College of Engineering for Women, Pune secured second place with Rs. 75,000 and a Runner-up Trophy, while Team “Pegasus” from COEP Technological University, Pune secured third place, receiving Rs. 50,000 and a Trophy. The ‘Most Popular Team’ award went to Team “Trisense Innovators” from Dr Vishwanath Karad MIT-WPU, Pune. The top 15 teams received appreciation prizes of Rs. 10,000 each along with certificates. The winning team will represent Mitsubishi Electric India at the global MECA competition. All participating teams received participation certificates.

Teams were evaluated on two key parameters: System Design (innovation, implementation, safety, and digitalisation concepts) and Overall Presentation (system demo, presentation skills, and FA knowledge). Teams were required to design and build complete working models aligned to the competition theme, ‘Automating the World through Digital Innovation’ using Mitsubishi Electric Factory Automation products, based on the e-F@ctory concept, while demonstrating strong product and application understanding. The participating teams had to independently design and produce a complete set of devices/models using Mitsubishi Electric Factory Automation products. The control system was to be built based on the-F@ctory concept.

“The 2025-26 Mitsubishi Electric Cup centred on the theme ‘Automating the World through Digital Innovation’, which directly mirrors the current transformation underway in global and Indian manufacturing. The competition’s focus areas highlight several critical industrial challenges that companies are actively trying to solve today,” said Dr. S. Sriram, Director & Head, Factory Automation & Industrial Division (FAID), Mitsubishi Electric India. He referred to the students receiving hands on training and mentorship from Mitsubishi engineers, strengthening their practical understanding of automation technologies. “Through this platform, students were exposed to modern Industry 4.0 and Society 5.0 environments. By building complete working models, students learned how advanced technologies interact in real factory ecosystems, fostering industry ready skills. Mitsubishi Electric is not only helping a world of industries, but also a world of societies to apply automation for the greater benefit,” he emphasized.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Team Nexus AI from Sona College of Technology, for emerging as the winners of the 6th Edition of the Mitsubishi Electric Cup. I would also like to commend all participating teams for demonstrating exceptional technical capability, creativity, and innovative thinking throughout the competition. Mitsubishi Electric India is proud to engage with young talent and academic institutions across the country, fostering the development of innovative automation solutions that have the potential to create meaningful societal impact. Through platforms like the Mitsubishi Electric Cup, we aim to empower young minds to transform ideas into practical solutions, while gaining valuable mentorship from experienced professionals in the field of Factory Automation,” said Mr. Atsushi Takase, summing up the proceedings of the 6th edition of the Mitsubishi Electric Cup.

Competitions like the ME Cup support India’s national skill development initiatives and contribute to building a highly skilled workforce capable of driving industrial and technological growth. Mitsubishi Electric India will continue to inspire young innovators to push boundaries, excel in advanced technologies, and strengthen India’s position on the global innovation landscape.

AlUla Skies Festival Returns 17–26 April 2026: A 10-Day Celebration of Balloons, Stars and Spectacle in AlUla

From sunrise balloon ascents over ancient desert landscapes to moonlit cinema beneath some of the clearest skies in the region, the AlUla Skies Festival is set to transform the heavens into a stage from 17 April to 26 April 2026.

Recognised as Saudi Arabia’s—and the Gulf’s—first officially certified International Dark Sky Park, AlUla offers a rare celestial canvas protected from light pollution. For adventurers, culture seekers and stargazers alike, the 2026 edition promises perspective as grand as its landscapes.

SKYRISE: Mass Morning Hot Air Balloon Flights

One of the festival’s most anticipated highlights, SKYRISE, will see 30 hot air balloons ascend together in a breathtaking coordinated display. Ten balloons will accommodate paying guests, who will be collected from 4- and 5-star hotels in AlUla and transported to the launch site before dawn.

The flight path offers panoramic views over the UNESCO-listed Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first World Heritage Site. From intricate Nabataean tombs carved into sandstone cliffs to sweeping desert valleys, the experience delivers unmatched photographic opportunities before guests are returned to their hotels.

Hot Air Balloon Glow Show

17 & 18 April | 24 & 25 April 2026

As daylight fades, the sky transforms into a luminous theatre. The Glow Shows combine music, acrobatics, projection mapping and choreographed light displays with up to 12 illuminated hot air balloons firing their burners in synchronised rhythm. The result is a dramatic spectacle of light, sound and fire set against AlUla’s iconic desert backdrops.

VOX Moonlight at Maraya

Cinema meets desert magic at VOX Moonlight Cinema, hosted at the world’s largest mirrored building, Maraya. Guests can enjoy the latest film releases under open skies, surrounded by panoramic desert views.

Classic VOX favourites—popcorn, sliders, soft drinks and slushes—are available, while those seeking an elevated culinary experience can dine at Maraya Social by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton.

Tethered Hot Air Balloon Experience

17–26 April 2026

For visitors seeking a shorter yet equally thrilling experience, tethered balloon rides at Al Manshiyah Plaza will lift guests up to 50 metres into the air, offering panoramic views of AlUla’s dramatic sandstone formations and oasis landscapes.

House of Constellations

17 April – 02 May 2026

Returning to AlUla Old Town, the House of Constellations blends astronomy with storytelling heritage. This immersive activation features:

• Interactive installations
• A 360° planetarium with specially narrated content
• Telescope observations from Old Town Fort
• Guided celestial storytelling sessions led by Rawis

Anchored in AlUla’s historic amphitheatre, the experience bridges science and culture under pristine night skies.

Festival Concert: Nancy Ajram Live at Thanaya

23 April 2026

Arabic pop icon Nancy Ajram will headline a major festival concert at Thanaya. With 11 studio albums, multiple chart-topping hits and over 4 billion YouTube views, Ajram is widely recognised as one of the most influential female artists in the Arab world. A three-time World Music Award winner, she has helped elevate Arabic pop to global audiences and continues to shape the region’s contemporary music landscape.

About AlUla

Located approximately 1,100 km from Riyadh in north-west Saudi Arabia, AlUla spans 22,561 km² of extraordinary natural and cultural heritage.

Its highlights include:

• Hegra – Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Dadan – Capital of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms
• Jabal Ikmah – Home to thousands of inscriptions and rock art carvings
• AlUla Old Town – A labyrinth of over 900 mudbrick homes dating back to the 12th century
• Hijaz Railway – A key chapter in regional history

With towering sandstone mountains, lush oasis valleys and archaeological treasures spanning millennia—including Nabataean and Roman eras—AlUla is fast becoming one of the Middle East’s most compelling cultural destinations.

Wave Cinemas now at I-Thum’s Mall, Greater Noida

Greater Noida,  Feb 23: In line with the rapid transformation of Greater Noida into a major commercial and residential hub following the announcement of Jewar Airport, Wave Group has announced the opening of Wave Cinemas at I-Thum’s Mall, Greater Noida. The new multiplex features four screens with a total seating capacity of 974, including 17 platinum category seats, and is set to elevate the movie-going experience in the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajiv Gupta, Managing Director, Wave Group, said,

“Cinema in India has evolved into an immersive, experience-driven format where technology, comfort, and ambience play a critical role in consumer choice. At Wave Cinemas, we see this shift as a significant growth opportunity. Along with upgrading viewing experiences through advanced technology, premium seating, and curated food offerings, we are aggressively expanding our footprint. Over the next year, we plan to increase our screen count by nearly 50%, strengthening our presence across key markets.”

He further added, “This launch reflects our broader strategy to scale responsibly while delivering a contemporary, high-quality cinema experience for today’s audiences and families.”

Wave Cinemas, Greater Noida is equipped with state-of-the-art laser projection, advanced sound systems, and cutting-edge technology to deliver an exceptional cinematic experience. The multiplex also features an in-house multi-cuisine kitchen offering freshly prepared food and beverages, complemented by in-seat butler service for personalised comfort.

Mr. Yogesh Raizada, Director, Wave Cinemas, said:

 “At Wave Cinemas, our constant endeavour has been to elevate the movie-watching experience by combining cutting-edge technology with unmatched comfort and hospitality. With every new launch, we aim to create more than just a cinema — we create a destination where families and friends come together to celebrate entertainment. We are excited to bring this experience to our audiences and look forward to redefining cinema culture in the region.”

Strategically located near Pari Chowk, the cinema boasts a refined luxury aesthetic, premium recliner seating, illuminated food trays, and seamless service at the seat—ensuring enhanced comfort, safety, and indulgence for patrons, and making it a preferred choice for family outings.

Wave Cinemas, one of North India’s leading cinema chains, entered the exhibition business in 2003 with its first multiplex in Noida. Since then, the brand has consolidated its presence with 11 multiplexes and 42 operational screens across North India (excluding Greater Noida), comprising 10,526 seats. The company plans to add 20 more screens and approximately 4,000–5,000 seats by next year. Upcoming projects in Gurugram (5 screens), Delhi (2 screens), Raj Nagar Extension (5 screens), and Noida Extension (4 screens) are currently underway.

RAKEZ and EPDA partner to streamline environmental approvals for key industrial sectors

Ras Al Khaimah, 23 February 2026: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) to establish a structured and efficient approval framework for new industrial activities across priority sectors in the emirate.



The MoU was signed by Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, and H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Shayeb Al Naqbi, Acting Director General of EPDA. The agreement introduces a streamlined verification and environmental approval process covering the cement, chemical, and general industrial sectors. The framework has been developed in close alignment with RAKEZ’s HSE Department to ensure seamless coordination between regulatory and operational functions. The collaboration aims to enhance regulatory clarity, accelerate licensing procedures, and ensure full compliance with environmental standards while supporting sustainable industrial growth in Ras Al Khaimah.

Under the new framework, industrial companies will benefit from a faster and more streamlined environmental approval process, making it easier to move projects forward with greater clarity and efficiency. The MoU also ensures coordinated handling of expansion and modification requests, with clear guidance on environmental requirements from the outset. This structured approach enhances transparency for investors, and strengthens collaboration between EPDA and RAKEZ HSE to support sustainable industrial growth.

Beyond approvals, the partnership enables enhanced knowledge sharing, technical alignment, and joint training initiatives between EPDA and RAKEZ’s HSE teams to further strengthen environmental governance and promote best practices across the industrial ecosystem.

Commenting on the partnership, Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, said, “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility. By aligning processes and enhancing coordination with EPDA, we are creating a more predictable and efficient framework that benefits investors while upholding the highest environmental standards.”

H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Shayeb Al Naqbi, Acting Director General of EPDA, added: “This Memorandum of Understanding with RAKEZ represents a significant step forward in our shared vision of integrating world-class environmental stewardship with streamlined industrial development. By establishing clear, time-bound approval frameworks, we are not only enhancing regulatory clarity for investors in the cement, chemical, and industrial sectors but also reinforcing our commitment to protecting Ras Al Khaimah’s environment. This collaboration ensures that as we facilitate faster business setup and expansion, we do so with the highest standards of compliance and technical oversight, ultimately fostering a sustainable and competitive industrial ecosystem for the emirate.”

RAKEZ is home to nearly 40,000 companies across diverse sectors and continues to strengthen its ecosystem through strategic partnerships that enhance operational efficiency, regulatory clarity, and long-term sustainability.