18, Jul 2026
GAIL, KABIL Partner to Enhance Critical Mineral Supply and Bolster India’s Resource Security
New Delhi, July 18: GAIL (India) Limited and Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in the critical minerals sector, marking a significant step toward strengthening India’s resource security and supporting the country’s clean energy and industrial growth ambitions.
The partnership aims to explore opportunities across the critical minerals value chain, including the identification, sourcing, development, and acquisition of strategic mineral assets in India and overseas. By leveraging the expertise and capabilities of both organizations, the collaboration seeks to ensure a reliable supply of critical minerals essential for emerging technologies, renewable energy, electric mobility, and advanced manufacturing.
Under the MoU, GAIL and KABIL will jointly evaluate investment opportunities, exchange technical expertise, and develop strategies for the sustainable procurement and development of critical mineral resources. The initiative is expected to enhance India’s long-term access to strategic raw materials while strengthening the resilience of its supply chains.
The agreement aligns with the Government of India’s vision of securing critical mineral resources, promoting energy security, and supporting the country’s transition to a sustainable and self-reliant economy. The collaboration is expected to play a key role in ensuring the availability of minerals vital for future technologies, industrial development, and economic growth.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
18, Jul 2026
Anand Mahindra Says AI Will Drive the Next Phase of Growth for India’s IT Services Industry
July 18: Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra has said that artificial intelligence (AI) is set to redefine India’s IT services industry by creating new opportunities for innovation, productivity, and long-term growth rather than diminishing its role in the global technology landscape.
Speaking on the impact of AI, Mahindra noted that the technology will transform how IT services are delivered, encouraging companies to evolve from traditional outsourcing models to higher-value, AI-enabled solutions. He emphasized that organizations that embrace AI and continuously upskill their workforce will be better positioned to meet changing customer expectations and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Mahindra highlighted that AI adoption is expected to increase demand for advanced digital capabilities, technology consulting, and AI-driven business solutions. He added that India’s strong talent base and technology expertise place the country in a favorable position to lead the next wave of digital transformation.
Reaffirming his optimism about the sector’s future, Mahindra said AI should be viewed as a catalyst for progress, enabling India’s IT services industry to strengthen its global competitiveness while unlocking new avenues for growth and innovation.
18, Jul 2026
Kalyan Schools have enthusiastically joined nationwide cultural milestone commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram
India, Patancheru, July 18: Kalyan School recently organised a grand cultural programme on its Citizen Colony, Patancheru campus to educate students about the glorious history of India, its rich traditions, and the profound sacrifices made by our freedom fighters. The event aimed to instill a deep sense of patriotism, unity, and responsibility among the younger generation, drawing active and enthusiastic participation from the entire student body.
18, Jul 2026
HCLTech expands India footprint with Global Technology Center in GIFT City
Ahmedabad, India, July 18: HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today announced the launch of its Global Technology Center in GIFT City, Gujarat. The center will deliver AI-led solutions to HCLTech’s global clients in the financial services industry. It will also serve as a hub for developing next-generation technology solutions and talent development.
The facility was inaugurated by Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat in the presence of C Vijayakumar, CEO & Managing Director, HCLTech, and Shri Sanjay Kaul (IAS), Managing Director & Group CEO, GIFT City.
HCLTech also signed Memoranda of Understanding with Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar and Gujarat Technological University (GTU) to advance industry-academia collaboration and nurture future-ready technology talent in Gujarat. The partnerships will focus on research in AI for financial services, related software and skills development, providing students and faculty with hands-on industry exposure and opportunities to contribute to global technology and digital transformation initiatives.
Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, said, “We are delighted to welcome HCLTech to GIFT City. HCLTech’s commitment to creating local jobs and nurturing local talent aligns strongly with our vision of enabling Gujarat’s youth to access global career opportunities closer to home. The launch of the Global Technology Centre and the AI Lab marks an important step in strengthening GIFT City’s innovation ecosystem and advancing its position as a leading global TechFin hub. HCLTech has a proven track record of building capabilities and creating impact across the locations where it operates, and we look forward to its contribution to Gujarat’s technology landscape. As GIFT City continues its journey from a bold vision to a world-class destination for business and innovation, HCLTech’s presence will play an important role in its next phase of growth.”
C Vijayakumar, CEO & Managing Director, HCLTech, said, “Gujarat has been a beacon of progressive policies and development in India. GIFT City offers world-class infrastructure, and we are pleased to establish our presence in the state to engineer the future of financial services clients with innovative AI solutions. At HCLTech, we look forward to contributing to the local technology ecosystem in the state and boosting industry-academia collaboration to create a pool of future ready talent.”
17, Jul 2026
Focus on Inclusive Development During Meeting Between Dr. Bhargav Mallappa and Dr. Dinesh Sharma
New Delhi, July 17, 2026
Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, National Chairman and Founder of the Akhila Sevak Samaj Council (ASSC), met Dr. Dinesh Sharma, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from Uttar Pradesh and former Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, during a courtesy meeting in New Delhi.
The meeting focused on issues related to national development, public welfare, youth empowerment, and the importance of strengthening social initiatives through collaborative efforts. Both leaders exchanged views on the role of community organisations in supporting inclusive growth and contributing to India’s development.
Dr. Bhargav Mallappa appreciated Dr. Sharma’s contribution to public life and his long-standing commitment to education, governance, and nation-building. He said that meaningful dialogue between policymakers and social organisations is essential for addressing the aspirations of the people and creating lasting impact at the grassroots level.
Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Bhargav Mallappa said, “It was an honour to meet Dr. Dinesh Sharma ji and exchange thoughts on issues concerning public service and national development. His vast administrative experience and dedication to education and governance continue to inspire many.”
The Akhila Sevak Samaj Council (ASSC) continues to work across the country to promote social welfare, community development, youth engagement, and initiatives that contribute to nation-building through collective participation.
17, Jul 2026
AIR-34 to Raushmit of Allen Classroom Mumbai – 4 students from Allen Mumbai in 1000
Mumbai, July 17: The results of NEET-UG 2026, the country’s biggest medical entrance exam, have been announced. Students from Allen Career Institute Mumbai have once again demonstrated their excellence in the results. Allen Mumbai classroom student Raushmit Gupta achieved an All India Rank of 34, scoring 700 out of 720. Additionally, four Allen Mumbai students are ranked in the 1000.
Allen Mumbai Center Head Nehchal Singh Hanspal stated that four students secured ranks in AIR 1000, including Raushmit Gupta AIR 696, Anvi Goyal AIR 696, Manish Gupta AIR 718, and Aarushi Gupta AIR 724. Similarly, 11 students in the top 5000 are from Allen.
He stated that Aryan Gupta and Panshul Bansal jointly scored 715 out of 720 in the national results. Based on the tiebreaker rule, Aryan Gupta was declared All India Rank 1 and Panshul Bansal was declared All India Rank 2. Panshul Bansal has been a regular classroom student at Allen for two years, and Aryan Gupta is a distance learning student at Allen Career Institute.
Additionally, Allen Classroom student Ayush Bhalotia secured All India Rank 4 with 710 marks. Allen Online Test Series student Aryan Dubey secured AIR 7, while Allen Classroom student Gaurav Singh secured All India Rank 9.
Allen CEO Nitin Kukreja congratulated all students and their families on the excellent results. Allen has proved its excellence in the results. In the results seen so far, 5 of the top 10, 10 of the top 20, 23 of the top 50, and 46 of the top 100 students are from Allen. Of these, 36 students are from classroom programs, one from online live classes, and 10 from distance learning and online test series. The NTA released the list of the top 138 students with scores of 690 and above in a press release. Of these, 63 students are from Allen. This includes 50 classroom programs, one from online live classrooms, and 13 from distance learning and online test series.
17, Jul 2026
Delhi Strengthens Primary Healthcare Network with Launch of 45 New Ayushman Jan Arogya Mandirs
New Delhi, July 17: The Delhi government has expanded its public healthcare infrastructure with the opening of 45 new Ayushman Jan Arogya Mandirs, increasing the total number of operational centres across the city to 415.
The newly added healthcare facilities are aimed at bringing essential medical services closer to residents and improving access to affordable, preventive and primary healthcare. The centres will provide services including basic medical consultations, health screenings, early detection support and wellness-related care.
Officials said the expansion reflects the government’s continued focus on strengthening community-level healthcare and ensuring timely medical assistance for citizens at the neighbourhood level.
The Ayushman Jan Arogya Mandirs are expected to play an important role in reducing the burden on major hospitals by providing accessible healthcare services and encouraging early diagnosis and preventive care.
With the addition of these new centres, Delhi’s primary healthcare network has further expanded, supporting the vision of a more accessible and efficient healthcare system for residents across the national capital.
17, Jul 2026
25 Years of Music, Compassion and Legacy: Khazana Announces Its Silver Jubilee Edition
July 17: The curtains rose on the Silver Jubilee edition of Khazana – A Festival of Ghazals with a press conference held in Mumbai on July 15, 2026, officially unveiling the festival’s landmark 25th edition. Set to take place on July 24 and 25, 2026, at the Trident, Nariman Point, the festival promises two unforgettable evenings celebrating the timeless beauty of ghazals and soulful music. This year’s Silver Jubilee edition will feature an illustrious line-up of acclaimed artists, including Anup Jalota, Hariharan, Vishal Bhardwaj, Rekha Bhardwaj, Sonu Nigam, Javed Ali, Sudeep Banerji, Madhubanti Bagchi, and Sunil Mungee, bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated musical voices for a grand tribute to India’s rich musical heritage.
The announcement was made in the presence of eminent personalities from the music and entertainment fraternity, including Anup Jalota,Vishal Bhardwaj, Rekha Bhardwaj, Talat Aziz, and Anup Soni, who came together to celebrate the festival’s enduring legacy. This year’s line-up features an exceptional roster of artists, including Hariharan, Sonu Nigam, Javed Ali, Sudeep Banerji, Madhubanti Bagchi, and Sunil Mungee, making the Silver Jubilee edition one of the festival’s most anticipated celebrations yet.
A key highlight of the press conference was the conclusion of the 9th edition of the Khazana Hungama Artist Aloud Talent Hunt, an initiative that continues to provide aspiring singers and musicians with a national platform to showcase their talent. The winners were felicitated during the event, reflecting Khazana‘s continued commitment to encouraging emerging artists and ensuring that the rich tradition of ghazal music is carried forward by a new generation of performers.
Reflecting on the festival’s enduring legacy, Anup Jalota said,
“Khazana has always been much more than a music festival. For twenty-five years, it has brought together artists and audiences through the timeless language of ghazals while supporting a noble cause. It is an honour to be part of this Silver Jubilee edition, and I hope this legacy continues to inspire future generations of musicians and music lovers alike.”
Speaking about the significance of the festival, Vishal Bhardwaj said,
“Ghazals have a unique ability to capture emotions with remarkable simplicity and depth. Festivals like Khazana play an important role in keeping this beautiful art form alive while introducing it to newer audiences. Being part of this milestone celebration is truly special, and I’m looking forward to sharing this stage with some of the country’s finest artists.”
Recalling her father’s vision for the festival, Nayaab Udhas, daughter of the late Padma Bhushan Pankaj Udhas, said,
“Khazana was my father’s dream, a festival that celebrated music while making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Seeing it complete twenty-five years is incredibly emotional for our family. We are grateful to every artist, partner, and supporter who has helped carry his vision forward, ensuring that his legacy continues to touch lives through both music and compassion.”
The festival also announced Hungama Digital Media as the Presenting Partner. Through this association, Hungama OTT strengthens its commitment to celebrating India’s rich musical heritage while supporting platforms that promote meaningful artistic experiences and connect audiences with exceptional live entertainment.
Beyond the music, Khazana has remained steadfast in its commitment to social impact. Continuing a tradition established over the past twenty-five years, proceeds from the festival’s donor passes will support the Cancer Patients Aid Association and the Parents Association Thalassemic Unit Trust helping provide care and assistance to those in need. Conceived under the vision of the late Padma Bhushan Pankaj Udhas, the festival has evolved into a unique cultural institution where music serves a larger humanitarian purpose.
As Khazana marks its Silver Jubilee, it continues to be much more than a music festival it is a celebration of artistry, heritage, and compassion. For 25 years, the festival has brought together legendary maestros, emerging talent, and music lovers in support of a cause that has remained at its heart since inception. While honouring the unparalleled legacy of Pankaj Udhas, this year’s edition will celebrate the extraordinary musical journey of Asha Bhosle, acknowledging her immense contribution to Indian music and her enduring influence across generations. Commemorating this milestone, Khazana will also pay tribute to the legendary artistes who have shaped its remarkable journey over the years, including Rajendra and Neena Mehta, Bhupinder Singh and Mitali Singh, the late Pankaj Udhas, Anup Jalota, Talat Aziz, Hariharan, Penaz Masani, and Rajkumar Rizvi, honouring their invaluable contributions to the festival’s enduring legacy.
17, Jul 2026
Andaman & Nicobar Islands Set to Become Key Hub for India’s Strategic and Economic Growth
Port Blair, July 17: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are emerging as a key region in India’s growth story, offering significant opportunities in strategic security, maritime connectivity and economic development.
With its unique location in the Indian Ocean, the island group holds immense importance for strengthening India’s maritime presence and improving connectivity with regional and global partners.
Beyond its strategic value, the islands are witnessing growing attention for infrastructure expansion, tourism development, trade opportunities and sustainable economic initiatives. These efforts are expected to create new avenues for investment, employment and local development.
Experts believe that the region’s vast potential in areas such as the blue economy, marine resources and tourism can contribute significantly to India’s long-term economic objectives.
Government initiatives focused on improving connectivity and infrastructure are aimed at transforming the islands into a more accessible and vibrant economic centre while preserving their ecological balance.
The continued development of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands reflects India’s vision of strengthening coastal regions, promoting sustainable growth and enhancing its role in the Indian Ocean region.
17, Jul 2026
Sensex Surges Nearly 1,000 Points as Banking and IT Stocks Lift Market Sentiment
Mumbai, July 17: Indian equity markets witnessed a strong rally as the benchmark Sensex jumped 965 points and the Nifty crossed the 24,300 mark, supported by robust buying interest in banking and information technology stocks.
The positive momentum reflected improved investor confidence, with key sectors contributing to the broader market gains. Banking and IT counters emerged as major drivers of the rally, attracting strong buying activity during the trading session.
Market analysts attributed the upward movement to favourable domestic cues, renewed investor participation and optimism surrounding growth prospects across major sectors.
The rally extended gains across several segments, with investors showing increased interest in fundamentally strong companies amid positive market sentiment.
Experts said continued monitoring of global developments, economic indicators and corporate earnings will remain important for sustaining market momentum in the coming sessions.
The strong performance of benchmark indices highlights the resilience of Indian equity markets and investor confidence in the country’s economic outlook.
