13, Aug 2025
Namo Bharat Corridor: DB RRTS Partners with Würth to Strengthen Sustainable Depot Maintenance

13th August 2025, Ghaziabad – In a significant step towards enhancing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability, DB RRTS Operations India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn International Operations (DB IO), has partnered with Würth Industrial Services India to upgrade depot-level maintenance practices for the Namo Bharat corridor – India’s first semi-high-speed Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) implemented by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).

This Indo-German collaboration introduces advanced, eco-friendly solutions aimed at reducing waste, optimising supply chain efficiency, and improving workplace safety. A key highlight of the partnership is the adoption of Würth’s REFILLO mat aerosol refill system at the Duhai depot, making DB RRTS the first rail operator in India to implement this innovative technology. The system is designed to minimise hazardous waste and reduce packaging material, aligning with global best practices for sustainable industrial operations.

In addition to the REFILLO®mat system, Würth will equip DB RRTS with automated inventory management tools, modular storage solutions for enhanced supply chain coordination processes. These measures aim to ensure streamlined material handling and efficient maintenance operations. The launch event also featured the Würth “System Bus” – a mobile showroom designed for on-site product demonstrations, enabling stakeholders to experience the technology firsthand.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Niko Warbanoff, CEO, DB E.C.O. Group & DB International Operations, emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership:

“This collaboration with Würth is not just about tools—it’s about building smarter, sustainable systems for future-ready railways. It reflects our shared German legacy of engineering excellence and commitment to India’s Make-in-India and sustainability goals. Therefore, I am very happy and proud about the partnership with Würth.”

The event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including Mr. Rahul Gupta, Managing Director, Würth Industrial Services India; Mr. Praveen Goyal, CEO, DB RRTS; Mr. Michael Kortüm, COO, DB RRTS; and Mr. Anil Kumar Agarwal, CMO, DB RRTS, along with other senior officials from both DB RRTS and Würth.

The Namo Bharat corridor represents a transformative shift in regional transportation, offering faster, greener, and more efficient mobility solutions. With this partnership, DB RRTS aims to set new benchmarks in sustainable rail operations, demonstrating that modern infrastructure can go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility.

13, Aug 2025
Noida Gets a New Flavour Hub: SGF India Launches at Assotech Business Cresterra with 20% Opening Day Discount

New Delhi, 13th August 2025: SGF (Spice Grill Flame) India, one of India’s fastest-growing quick service and casual dining restaurant chains, has announced the launch of its newest outlet in Assotech Business Cresterra, Sector 135, Noida, marking another milestone in its expansion strategy.

To celebrate this milestone, the brand is offering an exclusive inaugural discount of 20% on all orders on the launch day. The new Noida outlet will bring the brand’s signature menu that ranges from flavour-packed North Indian foods to the corporate professionals, residents, and food lovers in the bustling Sector 135 area. 

SGF India’s broader vision is to reach 200+ outlets by 2026, driven by its strong franchise network and demand for vegetarian alternatives in the fast-food segment.

Noida has always been a key market for us, and opening at Assotech Business Cresterra allows us to cater to a vibrant mix of working professionals and the local residents. We are excited to welcome guests with our signature taste, quality, and service, said Kewal Ahuja, Founder & CEO of SGF India.

SGF India’s expansion reflects its commitment to making vegetarian dining accessible, affordable, and enjoyable across India. The brand looks forward to becoming a go-to choice for customers in Noida, delivering convenience without compromising taste or quality.

Outlet Address: SGF India – Assotech Business Cresterra Park, Sector 135, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Launch Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Inaugural Offer: 20% off on all orders

13, Aug 2025
Walplast Reports Double-Digit Growth for HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock Within First Year of Launch

Mumbai, 13th August, 2025: Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., a leading player in India’s building and construction materials industry, has reported an impressive double-digit growth for its recently launched HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, an advanced waterproofing coating solution. Launched a year back, the product has already made significant inroads across the construction and infrastructure sectors, demonstrating Walplast’s ability to identify and deliver on-site needs with precision.

HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock is an elastomeric, UV-resistant, acrylic polymer-based coating designed for waterproofing horizontal and vertical surfaces. Reinforced with acrylic polymers and synthetic fibers, the product cures to form a seamless membrane that offers long-lasting protection and performance. Tested against international standards including ASTM D 412, EN 1015-12, IS 2645, and internal protocols, it has been engineered to meet modern construction demands with efficiency and durability.

This single-pack solution can be applied directly to vertical and horizontal surfaces (roofs, terraces, parapets, sunshades, and external walls), making it suitable for both new construction and repair work. Key features include resistance to up to 5 bars of positive hydrostatic pressure, high crack-bridging capability, excellent flexibility, and strong adhesion to masonry substrates. Its ease of application and re-coating make it an ideal solution for builders, contractors, and project managers seeking time-saving, reliable waterproofing systems. Walplast offers up to 6 years of warranty for HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, further underlining the product’s quality and reliability.

Commenting on the growth, Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director, Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., said, “The outstanding performance of HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock in just its first year shows our commitment to solving real-world site challenges. This product was developed to address the increasing need for dependable waterproofing systems in India’s diverse climate conditions. Its rapid market acceptance validates both the performance and the trust that professionals place in the HomeSure range. We are confident that HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock will continue to set benchmarks in waterproofing protection.”

Aniruddha Sinha, Sr. Vice President, Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., added, “Customers today are looking for solutions that not only deliver performance but also offer peace of mind. With HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, we have combined ease of use, robust technical capabilities, and a warranty of up to 6 years to ensure long-term satisfaction. Its traction across markets reflects the trust we have built among applicators and developers alike.”

Walplast has progressively grown its HomeSure brand across core markets such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, supported by a strong network of 800+ distributors, 6000+ dealers, and 65,000+ influencers. The expansion of its waterproofing portfolio strengthens its position as a comprehensive solutions provider in the building materials space, offering products spanning Wall Putty, Tile Adhesives, Gypsum-based products, Construction Chemicals, Admixtures, Paints, and AAC blocks.

13, Aug 2025
Fern Hotels & Resorts Powers Significant Expansion of ‘Series by Marriott’

Bengaluru, 13th August 2025:  The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is proud to announce strong response to its newest venture ‘Series by Marriott’ an exclusive brand collaboration with Marriott International. Since its launch, the strategic collaboration has witnessed an exceptional response from the Indian hospitality sector, with more than ten new independent hotel owners signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in the first month alone.

In addition to the new signings, most of the hotel owners have expressed their confidence in the brand’s vision and are working towards transitioning their current properties and affiliating to the Series by Marriott brand.  This rapid uptake signals strong faith in the combined strength of The Fern’s sustainability-driven ethos and Marriott’s world-class standards of excellence.

The brand’s momentum was further reinforced at The Fern Day, celebrated during the prestigious Global Design & Development Confluence 2025, hosted by Marriott International in collaboration with Hotelier India. A major highlight of the event was the reveal of the Mock-Up Room, a model room showcasing The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott design philosophy. With a focus on sustainability and eco-conscious design elements, the room received overwhelming appreciation from developers, hoteliers and industry leaders alike.

Sharing his thoughts on this significant achievement Rajeev Menon – President, Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International said- “With most of the Fern Hotels across India set to join Marriott International’s portfolio, it is a powerful testament to the trust in Marriott’s brand strength, distribution network, and world-class standards.  This also marks a significant leap for our company’s growth story in India, a nation that is set to be Marriott’s third largest market globally. Series by Marriott’s launch across India will underscore our growth strategy outside getaway cities and further highlight our ability to deliver value to owners and exceptional experiences to guests. Our collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts is off to a fabulous start, and we are excited about the opportunities this will unlock in the years ahead”

Adding his thoughts, Mr Rahul Chaudhary – Managing Director & CEO, CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Holdings said – “Our vision is to expand to 500 hotels in the next 5 years and we are already seeing strong momentum towards that goal after our collaboration with Marriott International.  This alliance brings together the best of global hospitality, excellence and The Fern’s deep rooted sustainability focus, creating a growth platform that benefits our guests, partners and communities”

 Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “The response we’ve received for The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott has surpassed all expectations. It is heartening to see such alignment between our commitment to sustainable hospitality and the industry’s growing appetite for innovation, comfort and responsible design. We’re excited to grow this collaboration and expand our footprint across India.”

 With a surge in interest and a pipeline of new collaborations already in motion, The Fern Hotels & Resorts is optimistic about the future as more hotels carry The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott flag. As the brand moves forward, it remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences.

13, Aug 2025
IIT Roorkee, Jal Shakti Ministry Partner to Modernize Irrigation Systems

IIT Roorkee Joins Hands with Jal Shakti Ministry to Modernize Command Area Development (M-CAD)

jal shakti

IIT Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India , 13 August 2025: In a significant step toward transforming irrigation practices and advancing rural sustainability, the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) wing of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.

The partnership aims to strengthen the Modernization of the Command Area Development (M-CAD) Programme through focused research, capacity building, and policy innovation. It is focused on improving how water is delivered to farmlands across India. Through research, training, and policy recommendations, this collaboration will help farmers access more efficient, sustainable, and reliable irrigation practices.

This collaboration holds special relevance for Uttarakhand, where efficient water management is critical due to hilly terrain, fragmented landholdings, and increasing climate variability. The partnership is expected to pilot and scale innovative irrigation models that can serve as templates for both the Himalayan and plain regions of the country.

The MoU signing ceremony was graced by Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, who emphasized the need for a robust and contextualized approach to irrigation modernization. She stated, “There is a critical need for documentation of CAD modernization efforts across India, indigenization of irrigation technologies such as center pivot tailored to Indian conditions, and inclusion of women in Water Users’ Associations and decision-making.”

The Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (CSRD), established at IIT Roorkee in 2024, will serve as a hub for research, innovation, and training to support M-CAD initiatives. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. V. K. Malik, Dean, Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy (SRIC), said “that the Centre will engage in collaborative projects to build knowledge, develop scalable models, and enhance the capacity of stakeholders involved in sustainable rural development.”

Given Uttarakhand’s unique topography and agricultural practices, IIT Roorkee’s expertise will play a vital role in contextualizing solutions for hill and semi-hill areas, ensuring that rural and remote communities benefit directly from modern irrigation techniques and inclusive water governance.

Reflecting on the significance of this collaboration, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “This partnership reaffirms IIT Roorkee’s commitment to national development and societal well-being. Through this initiative, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the modernization of India’s command area, ensure inclusive participation of rural communities, and support evidence-based policymaking. This aligns directly with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 and the goals of Jal Shakti Abhiyan, strengthening water security and agricultural resilience for future generations.”

The MoU was signed by Shri. Anuj Kanwal, Commissioner, CADWM wing, Ministry of Jal Shakti & Prof. Vivek K Malik, Dean SRIC IIT Roorkee. Prof. Ashish Pandey, Head, Centre for Sustainable Rural Development, IIT Roorkee, Prof. Kritika Kothari, Department of Water Resources Development & Management, and Joint Faculty, CSRD & Shri Ashok K Jeph, Director, CADWM wing from the Ministry have played a crucial role and were actively involved in formalizing this collaboration.

The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in aligning academic excellence with national development priorities. It harnesses IIT Roorkee’s multidisciplinary strengths to tackle ground-level challenges, paving the way for a more self-reliant and sustainably developed rural India. This collaboration represents a transformative step in bridging cutting-edge research with grassroots realities. By uniting the technical expertise of IIT Roorkee with the strategic vision of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the initiative aims to empower farmers, enhance irrigation efficiency, and foster inclusive rural growth. More than just a technological intervention, this partnership is about creating a meaningful impact, uplifting communities, revitalizing agricultural ecosystems, and contributing to India’s ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

13, Aug 2025
AiR-Atman in Ravi Unveils Mission to Spark Inner Awakening through Bring Back Consciousness Wristbands

Bengaluru, 13 August 2025: Renowned Author, Spiritual Mentor, Happpiness Ambassador, and Philanthropist, AiR – Atman in Ravi, has set out on a worldwide transformational quest to help people move beyond the mind and discover the truth in consciousness. AiR with his committed team has embarked on the mission to do so by passing out “Bring Back Consciousness” (BBC) wristbands to encourage everyone across the globe to switch from the mayhem of the mind to a state of perpetual bliss through illumination.

wristband

The BBC initiative is not merely a campaign but a deeply personal and passionate mission for AiR. “The mind is a source of misery, ignorance, negativity and desire,” says AiR – Atman in Ravi. “It bombards us with up to 50,000 toxic thoughts a day, acting like a mind-killer—a weapon deadlier than any other weapon. The BBC wristbands serve as a constant reminder to tame the monkey mind and make it a monk by flipping to consciousness—a state of awareness, peace, love and bliss.”

The concept of BBC, which began just weeks ago, is rooted in the idea that our consciousness is often clouded by negative thoughts, much like dark clouds obscure the sun and sky. By wearing a BBC wristband, individuals are reminded to conquer the mind’s destructive tendencies and the monsters it creates—fear, worry, stress, anxiety, regret, shame, guilt, anger, jealousy, and pride—and activate their intellect to discriminate and choose the path of clarity and Enlightenment. “One who has conquered the mind is greater than one who has conquered anything in the world. It is only when the mind is stilled and we are in consciousness that we can attain our ultimate goal—Enlightenment, Moksha,” AiR emphasizes.

AiR’s mission of distributing consciousness reminder wristbands does not have specific goals or limits. AiR and his team aim to reach as many people as they can, around the world, and to share the profound importance of awareness and inner awakening until every individual has been touched by this enlightening experience. “This is not a campaign; it is my mission,” AiR affirms.

13, Aug 2025
Mukand Sumi Special Steel Commissions New Blooming Mill from Danieli India

Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. Places Order for
New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited

Mumbai, 13th August: Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. (MSSSL) is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its growth journey with the placement of an order for a state-of-the-art New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited, a global leader in metallurgical equipment and solutions.

The Letter of Intent (LoI) for this landmark project was formally handed over by Mr. Niraj Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., to Mr. Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, Chief Executive Officer, Danieli Group, during a high-level strategic meeting held recently. This investment marks a major leap forward in Mukand Sumi’s commitment to technological advancement, enhanced production capabilities, and quality leadership in the specialty steel sector. The new blooming mill will be capable of rolling up to 200 mm Diameter rounds from blooms up to 380mm x 420 mm, providing enhanced flexibility and improved quality control & optimisation of the product-mix across product lines.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Vipul Mashruwala, President, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., said: “This is more than just a capacity expansion – it’s a statement of our intent to lead the future of special steel manufacturing in India. Partnering with Danieli ensures that we are equipped with the best-in-class technology to meet rising domestic and global demand with precision, reliability, and sustainability.”

The upcoming Blooming Mill, to be installed at Mukand Sumi’s plant in Hospet, Karnataka, is expected to significantly boost the company’s capability to produce high-quality special steel products with better yield, improved surface quality, and increased productivity. This is in line with MSSSL’s long-term vision to cater to growing demand across sectors such as automotive, engineering, Bearing, Oil & Gas, energy, and infrastructure.

12, Aug 2025
Yoga and Child Health: Mental and Physical Well being Through Indian Traditions

By – Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder – Akshar Yoga Kendraa
Work – Yoga and Spiritual Leader

yoga

In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, children are increasingly vulnerable to lifestyle disorders, emotional instability, and declining physical health. Amidst these growing concerns, the timeless wisdom of Yoga offers a holistic solution. Deeply rooted in Indian tradition, Yoga is not merely a fitness routine but a way of life — one that fosters physical vitality, emotional balance, and inner peace, particularly essential during the formative years of childhood.

The Himalayan Siddhaa Path, a sacred yogic lineage, emphasizes a spiritual yet practical approach to well-being. This path integrates traditional Yogic practices with contemporary needs, making it particularly effective for children growing up in a rapidly changing world. Incorporating asanas (postures), pranayama (breathwork), dhyana (meditation), and mantra chanting, this tradition nurtures both the body and mind, ensuring a balanced growth trajectory for young practitioners.

Physical Health: Strengthening the Foundation

Childhood is a critical phase for physical development. Yoga helps children build muscular strength, enhance flexibility, and improve coordination. Regular practice of simple postures like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Vrikshasana (Tree Pose), and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) can significantly improve posture and stamina. These asanas not only promote blood circulation and digestion but also activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping children feel calmer and more grounded.

More importantly, Yoga is non-competitive. It allows children to grow at their own pace, fostering a positive self-image and healthy body awareness. This intrinsic motivation and confidence often translate into improved performance in academics and sports, encouraging lifelong habits of wellness.

Mental Well-being: Cultivating Emotional Resilience

Mental health among children is often overlooked, yet it is fundamental to their overall development. Practices such as pranayama and meditation, integral to the Himalayan Siddhaa Path, play a vital role in enhancing concentration, reducing anxiety, and managing emotional turbulence. Techniques like Anulom Vilom and Bhramari breathing are known to calm the mind and improve neural function.

Children who meditate regularly tend to exhibit better emotional control, heightened empathy, and reduced aggression. These are essential qualities that help them navigate peer relationships, academic pressure, and personal insecurities with confidence and grace.

Family Values and a Sustainable Future

Yoga, when practiced as a family, becomes a powerful bonding tool. It revives Indian family values such as discipline, respect for elders, empathy, and self-discipline. Parents who engage in Yoga with their children set a living example of mindfulness and well-being, fostering an environment of trust and shared purpose.

Moreover, teaching children to align with nature through Yogic living — eating sattvic food, respecting natural cycles, and reducing consumption — prepares them to become eco-conscious citizens. Yoga thus contributes to a sustainable future, where physical health, mental clarity, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

The essence of Yoga lies in balance — between the physical and mental, the self and the society, the present and the future. By introducing children to Yoga, especially through the Himalayan Siddhaa Path, we are not only enhancing their health and emotional intelligence but also sowing the seeds for a more compassionate, resilient, and sustainable world.

Let Yoga be the thread that weaves together generations, values, and visions — nurturing not just the child, but humanity’s collective future.

12, Aug 2025
Studio Abrash Unveils Morris Rug Collection – Where Art Nouveau Meets the Loom

We’re delighted to introduce The Morris Collection – the latest chapter in Studio Abrash’s portfolio of luxury hand-knotted rugs. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the Arts and Crafts movement and the visionary work of William Morris, this collection is a heartfelt tribute to nature, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.

Morris draws deeply from the aesthetics of English gardens- think curling vines, acanthus leaves, flowering tulips, marigolds, and daisies rendered in lyrical, flowing forms. Each design is a visual ode to symmetry and softness, capturing the delicate interplay of structure and spontaneity found in the natural world.

Hand-knotted in premium hand-spun wool and pure silk, the rugs exude a rich texture and gentle sheen. The colour palette evokes the mood of vintage botanical prints and 19th-century tapestries  with earthy greens, muted blues, dusty rose, and antique gold harmonising effortlessly with both classic and modern interiors.

The Morris Collection balances ornamental detailing with quiet restraint. Its compositions are thoughtfully constructed, making them ideal for a range of settings from contemporary apartments to heritage homes where elegance and storytelling go hand in hand.

Studio Abrash offers complete customisation across design, size, shape, colour, texture, fibre, and budget. Woven by master artisans across India, every rug is a slow-made masterpiece crafted with care, imbued with meaning, and built to be cherished across generations.

12, Aug 2025
Ambrane Launches PowerMini 20: 20,000mAh Pocket Powerbank for Phones and Laptops

New Delhi, 12th August 2025: Ambrane, a leading Made-in-India consumer electronics brand renowned for its innovative power solutions, has announced the launch of its latest addition to the powerbank portfolio, PowerMini 20, a compact yet high-capacity 20000mAh powerbank built to power both smartphones and laptops with ease.

The PowerMini 20 is available in black, blue and golden colour options and is priced at INR 1999. It can be purchased via Ambrane India’s official website, as well as on Amazon, Flipkart, and their official website.

True to its name, the PowerMini 20 combines robust battery capacity with unmatched portability, redefining on-the-go charging convenience. Equipped with Ambrane’s proprietary BoostedSpeed™ fast-charging technology, the device delivers up to 35W output via its Type-C port, making it capable of charging even USB-C laptops efficiently. It also features an 18W USB-A port and comes bundled with an in-built Type-C cable, along with a detachable cable for added ease.

The compact design makes it an ideal everyday carry, while the premium glossy finish adds a stylish edge. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a hybrid worker, or simply always on the move, the PowerMini 20 provides a dependable power backup in a form factor that fits easily in your pocket or bag. Built with Ambrane’s trusted SafeCharge™ technology, the powerbank includes multi-layer protection against overcharging, short circuits, and overheating, ensuring safe and reliable performance at all times.

“With PowerMini 20, we’ve addressed a real user need, high-capacity charging without the bulk. People are tired of carrying heavy bricks around just to stay powered. This product is our answer: compact, lightweight, and strong enough to charge both mobiles and laptops. It’s designed keeping today’s users in mind, fast-paced, always on the move, and unwilling to compromise on style or performance.” said Mr. Ashok Rajpal, Managing Director, Ambrane India.

With the launch of PowerMini 20, Ambrane further strengthens its position as India’s largest powerbank brand, now commanding a dominant 25% share of the market and offering the widest portfolio of high-performance, Made-in-India powerbanks.