12, Mar 2026
Wood Mackenzie: Middle East conflict drives European power price volatility as gas disruption removes 1.5 Mt LNG weekly from global markets
LONDON/HOUSTON/SINGAPORE, March 12, 2026 – Gas supply disruption from the Middle East conflict will drive sustained volatility in European power markets, with TTF prices above €50/MWh passing through to electricity prices across major markets, according to Wood Mackenzie analysis published today.
While European power is less dependent on gas, the disruption removes approximately 1.5 Mt per week (2.2 bcm) from global LNG markets—equivalent to 19% of global LNG exports. TTF day-ahead gas prices soared above €55/MWh ($18.7/mmBtu) on 9 March following QatarEnergy’s force majeure declaration the previous week. European gas storage sits 10% below last year’s levels following January’s cold spell. Europe’s ability to switch from gas to coal-fired generations in the power sector has declined sharply since 2022, with a 77% gas price increase now reducing gas generation by only 5%.
“Europe added 306 TWh of low carbon power supply between 2022 and 2025, reducing fossil fuel dependence and resulting in the contribution of gas and coal falling by 292 TWh,” said Peter Osbaldstone, Research Director, Europe Power at Wood Mackenzie. “But gas generators still set marginal prices on a frequent basis in major markets. When TTF rises €30/MWh, German power prices follow with €40/MWh increases.”
Osbaldstone added: “We’ve traded one vulnerability for another. Less overall gas dependence improves energy security. While gas’ role in power price formation varies by country, in Europe’s connected market its influence can be hard to avoid. Losing alternative supplies, such as coal capacity, means gas price shocks hit harder – Europe needs gas generation so it pays the price.”
Key Facts:
- Strait of Hormuz disruption removes 1.5 Mt LNG per week (2.2 bcm, or 19% of global exports)
- TTF day-ahead prices topped €55/MWh on 9 March 2026, up from around €30/MWh pre-conflict
- Gas correlation with power prices: R² = 0.97 in Germany, R² = 0.99 in Italy
- European gas storage: 10% below 2025 levels after January 2026 cold spell
- Low carbon supply share: 66% in 2025, up from 51% in 2022
- 306 TWh low carbon supply added between 2022 and 2025
- Fuel-switching capability in major power markets limited: 77% gas price increase reduces gas generation by only 5%
- Potential coal switching capacity: approximately 20 TWh of additional power supply, primarily in Germany
Gas sets marginal prices despite reduced power supply share
Renewable and low carbon sources now provide 66% of European supply, up from 56% in 2022. Between 2022 and 2025, low carbon supply increased by 306 TWh. Gas and coal’s contribution fell by 292 TWh over the same period.
However, gas-fired plants continue setting prices in Italy, Great Britain and Germany as the source remains critical to system balance during periods when the availability of renewables is lower. . While Germany’s share of gas-fired supply has been lower than markets like Italy, Spain and Great Britain, it’s remained quite flat (around 18%) from 2022 to 2025 as nuclear phase-out completed and coal retirement mount. Looking forward, we expect the role of gas in German power price setting to increase towards 2030, as coal retirements continue to mount, a marked contrast to other markets.
The limited fuel-switching flexibility locks in the linkage between gas and power prices. Wood Mackenzie analysis shows a 77% increase in gas prices—from €36/MWh to €64/MWh—reduces gas generation by only 5%. Coal-fired supply could increase by approximately 20 TWh, with German generators adding 12 TWh. Germany also maintains 4.5 GW of hard coal in strategic reserve, though with an average age of 50 years and limited recent running the capability of these generators to offer sustained support is uncertain.
Policy intervention probability increases
European governments spent €60 billion on crisis-related electricity subsidies in both 2022 and 2023 – despite lower wholesale prices in the latter of these years. Germany introduced subsidies to support industrial energy costs covering 2026-2028. During the 2022 energy crisis, governments implemented revenue caps ranging from €40/MWh to €180/MWh depending on technology and market. Spain and Portugal introduced agas price cap mechanism (€40-65/MWh), limiting the bids of gas-generators in Spain and Portugal and suppressing wholesale power prices from June 2022 through May 2023.
“Affordability pressure is real and policy makers are very sensitive to it,” Osbaldstone said. “But the best policy outcomes must be time-limited and ideally avoid distorting wholesale price signals. We learned in 2022 that blunt interventions create unintended consequences.”
Potential 2026 interventions include revenue caps, windfall taxes on generators, consumer subsidies and temporary market rule changes following 2022 precedents.
Energy security returns to policy priority
A prolonged disruption will strengthen the strategic case for renewables, nuclear, grid expansion and storage to reduce import dependence. Nuclear policy shifted in 2025. Sweden established state loan support of $25 billion for new nuclear build. Italy lifted its longstanding moratorium. Poland is advancing six reactors with $17 billion in direct investment support. Spain reconsidered operational extensions for plants approaching decommissioning dates originally set for completion by 2035.
The REPowerEU initiative, launched May 2022 in response to Russia’s invasive of Ukraine and Europe’s ensuing gas supply disruption, delivered an 18% reduction in gas demand by end-2023 through voluntary measures. The program set targets for 45% renewable share by 2030 and strengthened gas storage requirements.
The EU remains legally bound to 90% emissions reduction by 2040. Policy shifts will focus on sequencing and emphasis rather than reduced ambition. Europe’s political momentum remains firmly behind decarbonisation and reducing reliance on imported energy, but the path is becoming more complex.
“Another supply shock this soon after 2022 will crystallise decisions that have moved slowly,” Osbaldstone said. “Nuclear timelines, grid investment, storage deployment, interconnection priorities—all get forced up the political agenda when energy security is threatened.”
Market outlook depends on conflict duration and infrastructure damage
Whether prices normalise quickly or risk premia persist depends on conflict duration and damage to export infrastructure. Assuming no damage to Qatar’s LNG facilities, restart would require approximately two weeks as production trains return sequentially. Construction at Qatar’s mega-trains will likely pause for the conflict’s duration, creating potential longer-term supply implications.
Before the conflict, the global gas market appeared balanced at $11/mmBtu (€31/MWh), with more than 35 Mt of new LNG supply expected in 2026 and subdued Asian demand. Asian LNG prices for April 2026 delivery have climbed and are expected to trade at a premium to Atlantic basin prices as buyers seek alternatives.
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- By Neel Achary
12, Mar 2026
ISPI 2026 Kicks Off in New Delhi; Ajay Bhadoo Highlights Packaging Innovation
New Delhi, March 12, 2026
The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) on Thursday began the 6th International Summit for Packaging Industry (ISPI 2026) in New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, researchers and innovators from India and abroad to discuss emerging trends and innovations in the packaging sector. The summit was inaugurated by Shri Ajay Bhadoo, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
The summit is being organised under the theme “Packaging 5S-AI – Safe, Secure, Standardised, Smart, Sustainable and Artificial Intelligence.” The theme reflects the industry’s growing focus on developing advanced packaging solutions that enhance product safety, strengthen supply chains, promote standardisation, integrate smart technologies and support environmental sustainability.
The inaugural ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp. Shri R. K. Mishra, IRS, Director, Indian Institute of Packaging, delivered the welcome address and welcomed the distinguished guests and participants. Prof. (Dr.) Tanweer Alam, Additional Director and Regional Officer, IIP–Delhi, then presented an overview of the summit and outlined the key objectives and significance of the Packaging 5S-AI framework.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the inauguration of the Design Lab at IIP Delhi, aimed at strengthening innovation, research and skill development in the packaging sector.
In his inaugural address, Shri Ajay Bhadoo emphasised that the packaging sector is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digital technologies, sustainability priorities and evolving consumer expectations. He noted that the integration of automation and artificial intelligence can significantly improve productivity, reduce wastage and enhance product safety. He also highlighted that quality and standardised packaging play a crucial role in helping Indian products meet global standards, strengthening exports and improving their competitiveness in international markets.
The event also featured addresses by Shri P. R. Bantwal, Chairman, IIP and Chairman & Managing Director, Suprabha Protective Products Pvt. Ltd.; Shri Deepak Mishra, Joint Secretary, Department of Consumer Protection, Government of India; Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and Managing Director, UFlex Ltd.; and Ms. Luciana Pellegrino, President of the World Packaging Organisation, who joined the summit online.
Speaking on the theme, Prof. (Dr.) Tanweer Alam described Packaging 5S-AI as a transformative approach for the industry. He said that integrating safety, security and standardisation with smart technologies and artificial intelligence can strengthen traceability, improve quality control and enhance supply chain efficiency, while sustainability must remain central to innovation. He also highlighted initiatives such as One District One Product (ODOP) packaging support, cluster-based packaging development under government programmes, and the promotion of packaging standards aligned with APEDA specifications, aimed at strengthening packaging capabilities for regional and export-oriented products.
Highlighting the scale of the event, Prof. Alam said the summit has brought together around 1,500 participants, including policymakers, industry leaders, academicians and startups, along with nearly 50 international delegates from countries such as the United States, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Botswana, Mauritius, Zambia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Uganda, the Maldives, the Gambia and Singapore.
The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) is also undertaking several initiatives to promote sustainable and innovative packaging solutions in collaboration with industry and government departments. Among its initiatives is the development of improved packaging for traditional products such as Nolen Gur from West Bengal, which has enhanced its portability and significantly increased its shelf life. The institute is also conducting training programmes for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) under initiatives such as the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to help rural entrepreneurs adopt better packaging practices for agro and forest-based products. According to the institute, effective packaging can increase the market value of products by more than 10 percent, improving their marketability.
Through research, training and industry partnerships, IIP continues to strengthen India’s packaging capabilities while supporting exporters and manufacturers in ensuring that products reach global markets safely and in optimal condition. The discussions and collaborations at ISPI 2026 are expected to further accelerate innovation in the sector and contribute to the growth of India’s manufacturing and export ecosystem.
12, Mar 2026
Dollar Supported as Middle East Tensions Spur Inflationary Risks
Today’s markets analysis on behalf of Abdelaziz Albogdady Market Research & Fintech Strategy Manager at FXEM ‘
The dollar remained firm on Thursday, while Treasury yields edged higher. Escalating tensions in the Middle East and supply disruptions continue to propel energy prices upward, raising fears of inflationary pressures and keeping yields supported.
Markets could continue to reassess the odds of a Federal Reserve monetary policy easing, gradually reducing the number of interest rate cuts expected. Geopolitical tensions could also continue to drive demand for the dollar as a safe-haven asset.
While the latest inflation data in the US came up in line with expectations, attention could remain focused on the impact of rising oil prices. Core inflation for February cooled to 0.2%, while headline inflation rose to 0.3% on a monthly basis.
Looking ahead, the focus could turn to this week’s key economic data, including GDP growth and PCE figures, which could influence the Fed’s next move and market expectations. Signs of an economic slowdown or disinflation could put pressure on the dollar.
However, the developments in the Middle East could continue to be the main driver for the currency. In the meantime, today’s initial jobless claims could also introduce volatility into the markets.
12, Mar 2026
Miror Therapeutics Empowers Bengaluru’s “Ground Heroes” with Landmark Hormonal Health Initiative at Magadi Road Maternity Hospital
Bengaluru, Mar 12: Miror Therapeutics Pvt Ltd successfully hosted “Women’s Midlife & Beyond,” a high-impact hormonal health awareness program for frontline women workers in Bengaluru. Held at the Magadi Road Maternity Hospital, the event provided critical medical education and nutritional support to 62 women, including Pourakarmikas, ASHA workers, and staff from the government hospital.
The initiative targeted a significant but often overlooked demographic: the women who serve as the backbone of the city’s infrastructure. Through clinical screening of 54 participants, Miror identified a staggering need for early intervention, discovering that 84% of attendees were in the perimenopause stage, while 16% had reached menopause.
“This data underscores an urgent need for localised advocacy and early-stage hormonal support within these professional sectors,” stated Mr Sanjith Shetty, Founder & CEO, Miror Therapeutics.
The program moved beyond theory by providing actionable health solutions. Under the guidance of the Indian Menopause Society (IMS) and Miror Representatives, attendees discussed Perimenopause, Menopause, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
While the event provided foundational dietary consultations, Miror has announced a strategic pivot for future outreach. Moving forward, the company will prioritise Gynaecologist-led advocacy to provide the “medical seal of authority” required for complex symptom management and HRT eligibility.
Mr Shetty also stated that “Our mission is to ensure every woman leaves with clinical clarity,” the report concludes. “By shifting toward clinical gynaecology, we aim to foster higher medical literacy and a more confident adoption of evidence-based treatments”.
12, Mar 2026
AVer’s TR615 PTZ Camera Achieves Zoom Rooms Certification
Taipei, Taiwan – Mar 12: AVer Information Inc., an award-winning provider of AI audio-video solutions, announces the TR615 AI Auto Tracking camera has obtained Zoom Rooms ProAV Camera certification. Zoom Rooms certification confirms the camera’s ability to deliver stable video output, responsive PTZ control, and consistent image quality when deployed as part of a Zoom Rooms system.
“Zoom Rooms certification helps ensure devices meet our standards for performance, reliability, and user experience,” said Eric Yu, Head of Hardware Partnership at Zoom Video Communications Inc. “Our certified ProAV cameras, like AVer’s TR615, provide customers with trusted options for deploying Zoom Rooms across a variety of professional spaces.”
AVer’s TR615 is a next-generation 4K AI Auto Tracking PTZ camera engineered for professional broadcasting, live streaming, and event production. Equipped with a large 1-inch Sony Exmor RS1 CMOS sensor, it delivers cinematic image quality with rich color, excellent low-light performance, and lifelike depth. Supporting 4K at 60fps, along with 19X optical and 12X digital zoom, the TR615 ensures stunning close-ups and detail even in large venues.
With advanced AI-powered tracking, the TR615 offers Presenter Tracking, Zone Tracking, and Hybrid Tracking modes, automatically keeping subjects in perfect frame. From fast-paced performances to academic lectures, it provides smooth, professional grade footage without manual control. It also features NDI® HX32, Free-D, and Dante AV-H3, ensuring compatibility with IP streaming and virtual production workflows.
The TR615 supports flexible connectivity options, including USB, HDMI4, and dual 12G-SDI outputs, allowing it to integrate into both conferencing and production workflows. The Zoom Rooms certification further extends the camera’s versatility, supporting organizations that require a single PTZ solution across meeting spaces, patient rooms, classrooms, production suites, auditoriums, and multipurpose venues.
“Zoom Rooms certification ensures the TR615 meets platform requirements for reliable video performance in professional environments,” said Katie Sullivan, Senior Product Manager for AVer Information Inc. USA. “The TR615’s certification gives customers confidence that the TR615 can be deployed within Zoom Rooms while maintaining the image quality and automation expected from a production grade PTZ camera.”
AVer continues to prioritize platform certification to ensure interoperability across leading collaboration ecosystems, including Zoom. The certifications help organizations deploy AV solutions that meet performance standards while reducing integration complexity.
1 Exmor RS® is a trademark of Sony Group Corporation or its affiliates.
2 NDI® is a registered trademark of Vizrt NDI AB.
3 Audinate®, the Audinate logo and Dante® are registered trademarks of Audinate Pty Ltd.
4 All HDMI trademarks and trade dress are registered trademarks or trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.
12, Mar 2026
Roblox Unveils New Programs to Power the Next Generation of Games
New Delhi, Mar 12: Roblox, an immersive gaming and creation platform, today announced two new strategic initiatives to facilitate the creation of novel games—a new wave of games that push the boundaries of genre, gameplay, and visual style to meet the demands of Roblox’s rapidly expanding audience. These experiences will feature expanded genres such as role-play games (RPG), strategy and shooters, and will introduce different gameplay mechanics and a distinct look and feel from classic Roblox games.
New age-checked data reveals a substantial opportunity within the older user cohort. As of January 31, 45% of daily active users (DAUs) have completed the age check, with 27% of this group identified as over 18. This demographic represents a significant growth driver; for example, in the U.S., the 18-34 cohort is growing at over 50%—more than double the rate of the under-18 user base—and monetizes 40% higher.
These programs help target the rapidly growing demographic of users over 18. Leveraging new age-checked data, the company is prioritizing the creation of high-fidelity novel games across popular genres to serve an increasingly diverse, older, and high-value audience.
“The creativity of Roblox developers has always amazed us,” said Vlad Loktev, Chief Creator Ecosystem Officer at Roblox. “Our vision for Roblox is to be the platform for all ages, and we are calling on ambitious creators with bold ideas to build the next generation of experiences. These new programs provide the mentorship, resources, and discovery support needed to turn those visions into commercial hits.”
Empowering Creators Through New Programs
The new programs offer tailored support for different stages of development:
- Roblox Incubator: A six-month, milestone-driven program designed to help experienced teams refine promising concepts of novel games into polished, scalable, commercially successful games. All program participants will gain access to Roblox subject matter experts who will provide mentorship and support, as well as help participants build an audience for their games.
- Roblox Jumpstart: A continuous program designed to help creators who are new to Roblox learn the platform, and help experienced creators explore novel games. Applications for the Jumpstart program open today and will stay open on a rolling basis, and pitches for new games will kick off in person at this year’s Game Developers Conference (GDC) and continue on a rolling basis. Similar to the Incubator, all Jumpstart participants will gain access to Roblox subject matter experts and assistance with on- and off-platform user acquisition programs.
Next-Generation Technology
Roblox’s technology roadmap is laser-focused on providing creators with the tools to build the high-fidelity, compelling experiences that the growing older cohort expects. Features such as SLIM (Scalable Lightweight Interactive Models), Texture Streaming, and server authority allow developers to create visually stunning worlds that scale across devices.
Applications for both the Roblox Incubator and Roblox Jumpstart programs are open today. For more information on selection criteria and how to apply, visit the Roblox Newsroom.
Resources
- Roblox Newsroom: Roblox Announces New Jumpstart and Incubator Programs to Help Creators Expand What’s Possible
- Programs Landing Page: Build on Roblox and Reach Millions
- Creator Hub
12, Mar 2026
Guwahati family shares experience of hospital-based palliative care during advanced cancer treatment
Guwahati, Mar 12: A Guwahati family has shared its experience of hospital–based palliative care after their mother, diagnosed with advanced-stage liver cancer, was shifted to comfort-focused treatment during a recent admission at Peerless Hospital Guwahati.
The 62-year-old patient had initially been admitted for what the family expected would be a short hospital stay. During the admission, doctors informed them that immunotherapy had not been effective and the disease had progressed, making palliative care the most appropriate course of treatment.
While home-based care was discussed, the family felt her condition required continuous medical supervision.
“We wanted her to remain in a setting where immediate medical support was available if needed. Continuing care at home did not seem medically advisable in her condition,” a family member said.
The family explored several palliative care options in Guwahati before opting for Peerless Hospital’s structured palliative care package, which was arranged within 24 hours of discussion with the medical team.
The patient was shifted to a single cabin where a family member could remain round the clock. She was placed under continuous vital monitoring, with nurses conducting regular manual checks of blood pressure, temperature and oxygen saturation. Preventive measures such as an air mattress were used to reduce the risk of bedsores, while medications were administered on schedule and her positioning was adjusted regularly for comfort.
A dietician reviewed her meals and adjusted food choices based on medical requirements and personal preferences. Mobility support was also encouraged, with wheelchair outings and assisted short walks when possible. Daily physiotherapy sessions were provided to help maintain strength and movement.
The patient’s primary physician reviewed her condition twice a day, and specialists were consulted whenever required.
Over time, the patient was able to resume oral intake after previously requiring assisted feeding, and both her feeding tube and catheter were removed.
“After months without appetite, being able to eat normally again meant a great deal to her,” the family member said.
Dr. Gautam Kumar Das, CEO at Peerless Hospital Guwahati, said palliative care focuses on improving comfort and quality of life when curative treatment is no longer effective.
“Palliative care is often misunderstood as only end-of-life care. In reality, it is about managing symptoms, maintaining dignity, and supporting both patients and families during serious illness. Many families want to remain closely involved in caring for their loved ones but also need the reassurance of medical supervision. Structured palliative care within a hospital environment can provide that balance of clinical support and family presence,” he said.
The family said the structured care plan helped them remain close to the patient while ensuring consistent medical supervision during a difficult phase of treatment.
12, Mar 2026
InvestoXpert Advisors to Host 3rd ‘Maha Property Day’ in Noida on March 14–15
InvestoXpert Advisors to Host 3rd Edition of ‘Maha Property Day’ in Noida on March 14–15, 2026, Bringing Exclusive Homebuying Opportunities
Noida, Mar 12: InvestoXpert Advisors has announced the 3rd Edition of ‘Maha Property Day’, a two-day property showcase scheduled to take place on March 14 and 15, 2026, at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel.
The event is positioned as a focused marketplace for homebuyers and investors to explore a wide portfolio of residential properties across the National Capital Region. By bringing together leading developers, financial institutions, and real estate advisors under one platform, the initiative aims to enable buyers to assess multiple projects, pricing structures, and investment opportunities in a single venue.
Through Maha Property Day, InvestoXpert Advisors intends to streamline the property discovery process by offering curated residential options supported by on-ground advisory, project comparisons, and financing consultations. The showcase will feature projects across segments such as premium apartments, integrated townships, and investment-oriented housing developments across emerging corridors including Noida, Greater Noida, and the Yamuna Expressway region.
The two-day event will also introduce exclusive event-only benefits including developer-led offers, spot booking incentives, and customised payment plans aimed at encouraging faster purchase decisions. Visitors attending the showcase will have the opportunity to directly engage with developer representatives and lending partners to evaluate project specifications, pricing advantages, and home loan options.
Commenting on the initiative, Vishal Raheja, Managing Director, InvestoXpert Advisors said,
“Maha Property Day has been conceptualised as a strategic platform that simplifies the homebuying journey while bringing verified developers and serious buyers together in one ecosystem. With Noida emerging as a high-growth residential destination supported by infrastructure expansion and connectivity upgrades, the event aims to provide buyers with access to credible projects, structured advisory, and exclusive deals that are typically not available in the open market.”
The company believes the initiative aligns with the growing demand for residential real estate across NCR, where infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity, and expanding commercial hubs are reinforcing buyer confidence. Noida continues to witness heightened interest from both end-users and investors due to its planned urban development and strong connectivity with the wider NCR region.
By curating a comprehensive property showcase, InvestoXpert Advisors aims to provide homebuyers with a structured environment to explore verified projects, compare offerings, and take advantage of limited-period deals during the event.
Interested homebuyers and investors can register for the event through the official website – https://mahapropertyday.com and participate in the two-day property showcase.
Event Details Event: InvestoXpert Maha Property Day Dates: March 14–15, 2026 Venue: Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida
12, Mar 2026
Erasmus Plus NSIS Launches 10-Module Digital Research & Entrepreneurship Training in South Asia
Mumbai, Mar 12: The Erasmus+ Programme-supported NSIS (Developing Information, Research, and Digital Skills for Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship) project, co-funded by the European Union, will introduce a 10-module training programme on digital research, data skills, research commercialisation and entrepreneurship for universities across India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. The initiative and its key outcomes were highlighted today during National Awareness Day 2026 organised under the NSIS project and hosted at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS), in collaboration with MIT World Peace University, Pune, and Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai.
The event brought together international academic leaders, researchers and policy stakeholders from South Asia and Europe to discuss strategies for strengthening digital research capabilities, innovation support systems and university-led entrepreneurship across the region. The discussions focused on building stronger research ecosystems within universities and equipping higher education institutions with the digital and information skills required to support innovation-driven economic growth and research.
This can be achieved by technology transfer, research commercialisation and entrepreneurship development. Through collaboration between European and South Asian partner institutions, the initiative promotes knowledge exchange, joint research initiatives and the adoption of global best practices in innovation management and research-driven entrepreneurship.
Dr. Padraig Kirby, Project Lead and Erasmus+ Coordinator for the NSIS project, said,
“The NSIS project aims to develop information, research and digital skills, with a particular focus on strengthening the role of libraries and research and improving the services and support that librarians provide for research, business and entrepreneurship. One of the key outcomes of the project will be the development of a 10-module curriculum covering areas such as digital literacy, data skills, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), online research publication, academic writing, and business and management. These modules will be made available as training opportunities for universities across India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, supported by an online platform that will allow participants to access the courses and resources.”
Dr. Sarita Sachdeva, Erasmus Project Lead and Dean Research at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, said,
“We are living in an era defined by rapid technological advancement, digital transformation and knowledge-driven economies, where information access, research capabilities and digital skills have become fundamental drivers of innovation and entrepreneurship. Through the Erasmus+ NSIS project, we aim to strengthen research and academic collaboration among partner institutions in India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, enhance digital and information skills essential for modern research environments, and support innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge-based economic growth across the region.”
Dr. Naresh Grover, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, highlighted the evolving role of universities in enabling digitally connected research ecosystems, stating,
“Digital transformation in higher education is not merely about introducing new technologies; it is about fundamentally redesigning how learning, research and collaboration take place within universities. The shift towards technology-enabled and globally connected learning environments is enabling institutions to strengthen research, cultivate innovation and connect academic work with real-world challenges. With the support of initiatives such as the National Education Policy 2020 and the Digital India Mission, universities are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital platforms to improve research capabilities and make institutional decision-making more data-driven.”
The event also included expert deliberations on the role of digital transformation in strengthening innovation ecosystems across South Asia. A panel discussion on “AI & Digital Transformation for Developing Information and Research for Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in South Asia” was moderated by Rajiv Kapoor, Managing Director and CEO of Manav Rachna Educational Institutions. Another panel on “Developing Digital Skills in Education, Research and Libraries for Entrepreneurship in South Asia” was moderated by Dr. Monika Goel, Executive Director and Dean Academics at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies.
The discussions explored strategies to strengthen digital competencies within research institutions and highlighted the role of universities in supporting innovation-driven entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary research. At MRIIRS, Erasmus+ support has contributed to research collaborations in emerging technology areas, capacity-building programmes for professionals including library staff, and entrepreneurship development initiatives aimed at cultivating innovation among students and researchers.
In the long term, the initiative is expected to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems, promote startup culture within universities, enhance collaboration between academia and industry, and create sustainable frameworks for innovation-driven entrepreneurship and technology development.
12, Mar 2026
Bombay Dyeing Marks World Sleep Day 2026 with ComfortThatCares
Mumbai, Mar 12: As India navigates rising stress, digital fatigue, and increasingly disrupted routines, Bombay Dyeing & Manufacturing Company Ltd. is using World Sleep Day 2026 to spotlight a simple but important idea: better sleep begins with a better sleep environment. This year’s theme, “Sleep Well, Live Better,” is a timely reminder that sleep is not something to be earned at the end of a productive day; it is what makes that productivity possible in the first place.
That is the belief at the heart of ComfortThatCares, Bombay Dyeing’s World Sleep Day initiative. Through this campaign, the brand is shifting the conversation from simply sleeping more to sleeping better, drawing attention to the role that thoughtful, quality home textiles play in creating a sleep environment that truly supports rest. Bombay Dyeing’s sleep portfolio is engineered specifically to address these environmental factors:
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Urban Living Luxury Bedsheets: 400-thread-count cotton blends that are highly breathable, helping regulate body temperature to prevent midnight waking.
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Celebrating India Collection: 100% pure cotton in a rich 300 thread count, offering soft, breathable comfort with heritage-inspired designs.
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Comforters: Lightweight, breathable filling designed to provide year-round comfort without overheating.
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Bonded Blankets: Thick, insulated layers with a soft-touch finish for consistent, comfortable warmth through the night.
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Pillow: Thoughtfully engineered for optimal support and breathable comfort, Bombay Dyeing pillows are designed to change how India sleeps. By balancing plush softness with ergonomic support, they ensure restorative rest night after night, making everyday luxury a part of your daily routine.
The Brand Marketing Team of Bombay Dyeing adds,
“Sleep is foundational to our physical and mental well-being. Through #ComfortThatCares, we want to encourage families across India to treat sleep as essential, not an afterthought. At Bombay Dyeing, we have spent 145 years crafting products that bring comfort into Indian homes – and there is no comfort more important than a good night’s rest.”
For millions of Indians, sleep is the first thing sacrificed to a long day. Late-night screens, irregular schedules, and mounting pressures have quietly eroded the quality of rest that most people get. And yet, sleep affects nearly every aspect of how we function: how clearly we think, how well we recover, and how we show up for the people around us. Most healthy adults need 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep, and research consistently shows that the environment in which we sleep plays a significant role in whether we actually get it.
Soft, 100% cotton bedsheets that keep you cool, dohars that are light but cosy, pillows that properly support your neck, and blankets that keep you warm through the night. Every product in Bombay Dyeing’s sleep range is built on a simple idea: what you sleep on matters just as much as how long you sleep.
