20, Mar 2026
Honeywell Unveils Commercial Launch Of Ai-powered Control Room Assistant Following Successful Pilot
India, Mar 20: Honeywell today announced the commercial launch of Experion Operations Assistant, an AI-powered solution designed to transform how industrial operators monitor plant performance, make critical decisions and respond to alarm incidents before they happen.
Built on Honeywell’s flagship distributed control system, Experion PKS, Experion Operations Assistant merges historical data with real-time operational insights to allow operators to forecast and respond to potential critical scenarios associated with unsafe operations and production losses. The solution aims to bridge the gap between autonomous technologies and control room operators.
The commercial launch follows the recent pilot program during which Chevron and TotalEnergies were among the partners who leveraged Honeywell’s Experion Operations Assistant in their operations to help minimize unplanned downtime. In its pilot phase, the AI-powered assistant made predictions an average of 5-10 minutes before alarm incidents would have happened, enabling operators to quickly implement corrective actions and avoid potential events.
“Industrials are under pressure to avoid unplanned downtime and maximize the productivity of existing assets, while navigating the massive knowledge transfer of a retiring workforce,” said Jim Masso, president and CEO of Honeywell Process Automation. “By combining more than 50 years of process automation expertise with site-specific knowledge, data and advanced AI, Experion Operations Assistant helps operators anticipate issues earlier, respond with confidence and operate more safely and effectively. Throughout our pilot phase, Experion Operations Assistant delivered tangible, real-world results across multiple customer sites, highlighting the immense opportunity as the solution scales.”
As part of Honeywell’s Experion PKS distributed control system network, the Honeywell Experion Operations Assistant is designed to seamlessly integrate into existing control room environments, leveraging the systems already in place and building on the legacy site-specific data. The solution is centered upon its capability to capture site-specific knowledge and then use language models to analyze this data in real-time in order to proactively advise operators of impending issues.
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- By Neel Achary
20, Mar 2026
Odisha Shines on Day 1 of National Para Athletics Championship
Bhubaneswar witnessed an energetic start to the 24th National Para Athletics Championship 2026, with Odisha’s para-athletes delivering an impressive performance on the opening day at Kalinga Stadium.
The host state secured a total of five medals, including two gold, one silver, and two bronze, setting a strong tone for the competition ahead. Athletes from Odisha showcased determination and skill across multiple events, earning early recognition among participants from across the country.
The championship has drawn top para-athletes nationwide, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. Spectators were treated to high-energy performances as participants pushed their limits in pursuit of excellence.
Odisha’s strong start not only reflects the state’s growing focus on inclusive sports but also highlights the rising standards of para-athletics in India. With several events still to unfold, expectations remain high for more standout performances in the coming days.
20, Mar 2026
Odisha to Host 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships
In a defining moment for Indian athletics, the state of Odisha has been selected to host the prestigious World Athletics Indoor Championships 2028. This announcement marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global sporting powerhouse.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/IPR_Odisha
The championship’s return to India after more than two decades highlights the country’s growing reputation for successfully organizing international sporting events. For Odisha, in particular, this achievement reflects years of focused investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development.
The decision is being seen as a strong endorsement of India’s ability to deliver world-class sporting experiences. Odisha has already earned recognition for hosting major hockey events and nurturing grassroots talent, and this new responsibility further cements its status as a leading sports hub in the country.
Leaders across the nation have expressed pride in this accomplishment, emphasizing how it showcases India’s emergence on the global stage. The support and vision of Narendra Modi have also been acknowledged as instrumental in strengthening the country’s sporting ecosystem.
Beyond the competition itself, the 2028 championships present an opportunity to display India’s rich culture, warm hospitality, and organizational excellence to a global audience. Athletes and fans from around the world can expect not just high-quality sporting action, but also an immersive experience of Indian traditions and spirit.
As preparations begin, anticipation is already building. The event is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes while boosting India’s ambitions of hosting even larger global competitions in the future.
With this announcement, Odisha take another confident step forward on the world sporting map.
20, Mar 2026
Raffles Udaipur to Host Exclusive Book Reading & Culinary Experience with Celebrity Chef Shipra Khanna
Udaipur, Mar 20: Raffles Udaipur, the iconic private island retreat set amidst the tranquil waters of Udai Sagar Lake, is set to host an exclusive book reading and culinary collaboration with celebrated chef Shipra Khanna on March 22, 2026 at The Writers Bar.
Bringing together storytelling, mindful gastronomy, and refined hospitality, the intimate evening promises a multi-sensory experience that reflects the brand’s signature elegance and cultural depth.
As part of the event, Chef Shipra Khanna will host a special reading session from her book Sinfully Yours: Just Desserts, offering guests an opportunity to explore her personal journey, culinary philosophy, and perspective on conscious living. Known for her innovative “Health Unlimited” philosophy, the chef has carved a niche in the culinary world by blending indulgence with wellness.
In addition to the literary experience, Chef Shipra will curate a bespoke menu that will be featured across select dining venues at Raffles Udaipur. Thoughtfully designed, the menu will showcase a harmonious balance of flavour, nutrition, and elevated presentation, extending the experience beyond the evening for in-house guests.
The evening will begin with the book reading session, followed by an interactive engagement with the chef, allowing guests to gain deeper insights into her inspirations and culinary journey. The event will conclude with a personal interaction session, creating an intimate and memorable experience.
Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur, said:
“At Raffles Udaipur, our focus is on creating experiences that are both immersive and meaningful. This collaboration with Chef Shipra Khanna brings together literature, wellness, and gastronomy in a way that reflects the evolving preferences of our guests. By hosting her at our island retreat and introducing her thoughtfully curated menu within our restaurants, we aim to offer a multi-dimensional experience that is both enriching and memorable.”
Set against the serene backdrop of Udai Sagar Lake and framed by the Aravalli hills, Raffles Udaipur continues to position itself as a destination where culture, cuisine, and conversation converge. This exclusive evening further reinforces the property’s ethos of curating refined, immersive experiences for discerning guests.
20, Mar 2026
Swaranjali Delhi Presents “Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026” in Collaboration with Dhwani Foundation
New Delhi, India/Mar 20– Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Dhwani Foundation, is delighted to announce the much-anticipated “Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026”, a grand celebration of Indian classical music bringing together some of the finest maestros and emerging talents on a single मंच.
Scheduled for Sunday, 19th April 2026, the festival will take place at the prestigious Muktadhara Auditorium, located within Banga Sanskriti Bhawan (18-19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi – 110001). The event will run from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering an immersive day-long musical experience.
The festival will commence with a soulful Vandana by the disciples of Shri Partha Sarathi Lenka, setting a devotional tone for the evening. The program features an exceptional lineup of renowned artists across diverse classical genres:
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Flute: Shri Aanjaneya Joshi
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Santoor: Pt. Raj Kumar Majumdar
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Vocal: Pt. Ashish Narayan Tripathi
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Sitar: Pt. Smarajit Sen
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Vocal Duet: Dr. Prabhakar Kashyap & Dr. Diwakar Kashyap
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Tabla Solo: Pt. Biplab Bhattacharya
Accompanying Artists:
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Tabla: Pt. Subh Maharaj, Ustad Babar Latif, Shri Shubhendu Das, Shri Rudraksha Shrivastava
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Harmonium: Pt. Vinay Mishra & Shri Lalit Sisodia
“Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026” aims to celebrate the richness of Indian classical traditions while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation among audiences of all ages. The event promises an enriching confluence of melody, rhythm, and artistry.
You are cordially invited to be part of this musical journey.
RSVP:
Swaranjali Delhi | Dhwani Foundation
Website: www.swaranjali.org
20, Mar 2026
Big Launch From Samsung: ‘Galaxy Forever’ brings a new way to own flagship smartphones in India
Mar 20: Samsung announced the launch of Galaxy Forever in India, introducing a new ownership model designed to make its flagship smartphones more accessible. The programme addresses growing demand in the premium smartphone segment by offering a 50% upfront discount with assured buyback after one year and a no-questions-asked-return policy powered by Samsung Care+.
Under Galaxy Forever, customers can own a Galaxy S26 Ultra or Galaxy S26 Plus for a year by paying only half the device cost through 12 no-cost EMIs via Credit Card or Samsung Finance+. Samsung Finance+ promotes financial inclusion by providing easy credit with minimal documentation and quick loan approvals.
After one year, customers using the Credit Card payment mode can return the device for a 50% assured buyback or retain it by paying the remaining 50% in 12 additional no-cost EMIs. Customers using Samsung Finance+ can simply return and upgrade to the next Galaxy flagship, or retain the device by paying the balance in the 13th month.
Galaxy Forever also includes Samsung Care+, offering Accidental and Liquid Damage Protection with zero deductibles for 13 months, ensuring peace of mind from day one.
Key Features of Galaxy Forever
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Eligible Devices: Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Plus
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Programme Fee: Monthly fee for one year
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Assured Buyback: 50% upfront discount with no-questions-asked return
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Flexible Payment Options: Pay remaining 50% in 12 no-cost EMIs with Credit Card
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Peace of Mind: Samsung Care+ Accidental & Liquid Damage cover for 13 months
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Flexibility: Return, retain, or upgrade after 12 months
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Availability: Samsung.com and 1,500+ Samsung Experience Stores across India
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Payment Methods: Samsung Finance+ (online and in-store), Credit Card No-cost EMI (online only)
Sumit Walia, Vice President, Head of D2C Business & Corporate Marketing, Samsung India, said:
“With Galaxy Forever, we are introducing a customer-first ownership model that makes our flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Plus more accessible to Indian consumers. The programme has been designed based on the insight that consumers want to own the latest technology while enjoying a hassle-free option to upgrade year after year. Galaxy Forever reflects our commitment to innovation—not only in technology but also in how users own and upgrade to the latest Galaxy devices.”
Samsung has partnered with Servify and DMI Finance to ensure seamless upgrades, returns, and automated settlements. Galaxy Forever is also extended to select corporate employees and students through the Samsung Corporate+ and Student+ online stores, enabling India’s workforce and youth to stay at the cutting edge of the Galaxy ecosystem.
20, Mar 2026
BYD India expands national network to 48; PPS Motors inaugurates India’s largest BYD showroom in Delhi
Delhi NCR, Mar 20: BYD India, a subsidiary of BYD and the world’s leading NEV (New Energy Vehicle) manufacturer, announced the inauguration of its 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR, located in Moti Nagar. The new facility, the largest BYD showroom in India, has been launched in partnership with PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd., marking the sixth BYD showroom operated by PPS Motors, in addition to four service workshops across three states, further strengthening the brand’s retail presence in the region.
The newly inaugurated outlet reinforces BYD India’s expanding footprint in Delhi NCR, one of the country’s fastest-growing and most dynamic electric vehicle markets. Spanning 9,000 sq. ft., the Moti Nagar facility is designed to provide customers with an immersive retail experience, showcasing BYD’s advanced electric passenger vehicles and allowing customers to explore the brand’s technology, design philosophy, and sustainable mobility innovations.
Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India, said,
“The inauguration of our 48th showroom in India and sixth showroom in Delhi NCR with PPS BYD in Moti Nagar represents another important milestone in strengthening BYD India’s retail footprint. Delhi NCR continues to be one of the most dynamic EV markets in the country, supported by increasing consumer awareness and adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. Together with our valued partner PPS Motors, we look forward to bringing BYD’s advanced electric vehicles closer to customers in the region and contributing to India’s transition towards cleaner transportation.”
Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors Pvt. Ltd., added,
“We are proud to further strengthen our partnership with BYD through the inauguration of India’s largest showroom, marking an important milestone in our strategic expansion in Northern India. Being the largest sales and after-sales partner of BYD with 10 touchpoints in India, this reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the adoption of sustainable electric mobility solutions. Backed by BYD’s technologically advanced products and customer-centric approach, coupled with our deep understanding of customer needs, we endeavor to provide a premium and seamless ownership experience for our customers in the Delhi region.”
With this new addition, BYD India’s national electric passenger vehicle dealership network now spans 48 showrooms across 40 cities with 18 dealer partners, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen accessibility and support growing EV adoption in India.
BYD India’s current EV portfolio includes the BYD SEALION 7 premium sedan, BYD SEAL, BYD ATTO 3 eSUV, and BYD eMAX 7 eMPV, offering customers a diverse range of advanced electric mobility solutions. Globally, BYD has sold over 15 million NEVs, contributing to the reduction of more than 129.2 billion kilograms of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to the absorption capacity of nearly 2.14 billion trees.
Consistently ranked among the Top 10 Most Valuable Global Automotive Brands by Kantar BrandZ and positioned #91 in the 2025 Fortune Global 500 with a brand value of USD 14.4 billion, BYD continues to solidify its leadership in the global EV market while accelerating India’s transition toward sustainable mobility.
20, Mar 2026
Kaida BioPharma Announces Executive Leadership Team to Advance KAD-101, Built for the Ovarian Cancer Gap
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Mar 20 – Kaida BioPharma, a biotechnology company developing targeted therapies for women with hard-to-treat gynecologic cancers, announced its executive leadership team and board. Each member brings decades of experience in biotechnology, clinical development, regulatory strategy, manufacturing, finance, and commercialization to help advance Kaida’s lead product candidate, KAD-101, toward first-in-human clinical evaluation. The company is developing KAD-101 for recurrent ovarian cancer, where treatment options narrow quickly and durable control remains limited.
Kaida BioPharma is building KAD-101, a next-generation prolactin receptor antagonist for the ovarian cancer gap, the space where patients are too often left cycling through treatment with too few durable options.
In addition to her role as Chairperson of the Board, Kaida founder Dr. Stella Vnook has been named Acting Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Vnook is an accomplished biotechnology founder, executive, and advisor with extensive experience guiding early-stage therapeutics from scientific foundation through capital formation. At Kaida, she leads corporate strategy, development planning, and investor engagement.
“The science brought me here, and the women out there still fighting are why I stay. At Kaida, we are building for the ovarian cancer gap, for patients whose options narrow too fast and whose disease still outpaces available therapies,” said Dr. Vnook. “By targeting the survival signals that keep these tumors alive, we believe KAD-101 has the potential to help overcome treatment resistance and create a new path toward more durable control. More options mean more time, and more time means everything.”
Craig Pierson, a founder alongside Dr. Vnook, has been appointed Director at Kaida BioPharma. Mr. Pierson is a life sciences investor and company builder with more than 25 years of experience in investment banking and private capital formation. He provides strategic oversight and financing expertise.
George E. Peoples, MD, FACS has been appointed fractional Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Peoples is a surgical oncologist with decades of experience in translational oncology and clinical development. He is also the founder of the Cancer Vaccine Development Program, Cancer Insight, and LumaBridge. At Kaida, he helps guide clinical strategy and IND planning.
John Langenheim, PhD has been appointed fractional Chief Scientific Officer. Dr. Langenheim is a molecular biologist with more than 20 years of experience in therapeutic protein design and preclinical development. His scientific leadership has been instrumental in advancing KAD-101 toward clinical evaluation.
Pamela Swiggard has been appointed Head of Regulatory Affairs. She is a pharmaceutical executive with prior experience at companies including Pfizer and Endo Pharmaceuticals. She brings deep expertise across the product lifecycle, from development through regulatory approval and commercialization. At Kaida, she leads regulatory strategy and FDA engagement in support of IND readiness for KAD-101.
Eric Hacherl, PhD has been appointed Head of Manufacturing. Dr. Hacherl is a senior pharmaceutical operations leader with more than 25 years of experience in biologics manufacturing, cGMP compliance, and process development. At Kaida, he is responsible for helping ensure clinical supply readiness for KAD-101.
Mark Booth has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer. Mr. Booth is a seasoned pharmaceutical and biotechnology executive with more than 25 years of experience building commercial strategies for oncology and rare disease products. His background includes leadership across launch planning, brand strategy, access, and market development for important oncology products, including EMEND, EMEND IV, Zolinza, vintafolide, KEYTRUDA, and the avutometinib plus defactinib combination for low grade serous ovarian cancer. At Kaida, he is responsible for commercial strategy for KAD-101, including positioning, market development, and long-term access planning.
20, Mar 2026
India’s Bioeconomy Grows to $195 Billion, Targets $300 Billion by 2030: Jitendra Singh
NEW DELHI, March 20: Jitendra Singh on Thursday said India’s bioeconomy has expanded from about $10 billion in 2014 to over $195 billion in 2025, registering an annual growth of 17–18 per cent and emerging as a major global biotechnology hub.
Addressing the 14th Foundation Day of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) in New Delhi, the minister said the country is on track to achieve a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030.
He highlighted that biotechnology is becoming central to India’s growth, driving innovation in healthcare, agriculture, climate solutions and sustainable manufacturing. He credited BIRAC for playing a key role in bridging research and industry, enabling the translation of scientific ideas into market-ready solutions.
Referring to policy initiatives, Singh said the BioE3 Policy will promote sustainable biomanufacturing and innovation in areas such as precision biotherapeutics, smart proteins, climate-resilient agriculture, bio-based chemicals and carbon capture technologies.
He also pointed to the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund as a major step to support biotechnology ventures and strengthen India’s deep-tech ecosystem.
The minister noted that India’s bioeconomy now contributes nearly 5 per cent to GDP, citing findings from the India Bioeconomy Report (IBER) 2026 released at the event. The sector, supported by over 11,800 startups, has more than doubled in size since 2020.
Officials said BIRAC’s initiatives in funding, incubation and mentorship have facilitated industry-academia collaboration, leading to the development of affordable healthcare solutions, sustainable technologies and job creation.
Singh emphasised the need to nurture young scientific talent, particularly from smaller cities, and called for continued collaboration among researchers, industry and policymakers to drive innovation-led growth and support the vision of a self-reliant India.
20, Mar 2026
India Records Highest-Ever 200 Mineral Block Auctions in FY 2025–26
NEW DELHI, March 20: India has achieved a record milestone in its mineral sector with the successful auction of 200 mineral blocks during the financial year 2025–26, marking the highest number of auctions conducted in a single year.
According to the Ministry of Mines, the achievement reflects strong coordination between the Centre and states, as well as the growing maturity of the country’s auction-based mineral allocation system.
Of the total blocks auctioned, 123 are Mining Lease (ML) blocks and 77 are Composite Licence (CL) blocks, indicating a balanced approach between operational mining and exploration activities. In addition, tenders for 70 more blocks—38 ML and 32 CL—are currently underway.
Among states, Gujarat led with 32 blocks, followed by Rajasthan with 30 and Tamil Nadu with 22 blocks. Tamil Nadu conducted its first-ever mineral block auctions, while Uttarakhand entered the framework with the successful auction of its first magnesite block.
Limestone accounted for the largest share with 76 blocks, followed by iron ore (40 blocks) and bauxite (30 blocks), highlighting their importance for core industries.
The year also saw the auction of 22 critical mineral blocks, underlining a strategic push towards securing key resources. States including Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka and Maharashtra played a significant role in offering these blocks.
The Ministry said the milestone underscores India’s commitment to building a transparent, efficient and future-ready mineral allocation framework to support long-term economic growth.
