Category Archives: Business

Beyond Biology, Beyond Boundaries: ‘Super Dad 2026’ Celebrates the Unsung Heroes of Modern Fatherhood

Kolkata, June 20: In a heartwarming celebration of love, sacrifice, and unparalleled commitment, the Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance (KWBA) successfully hosted ‘Super Dad 2026’, a unique Father’s Day initiative dedicated to honouring extraordinary men who redefine fatherhood through their resilience, compassion, and selfless care. The event moved beyond conventional definitions of fatherhood to recognize not only dedicated fathers but also inspiring single fathers and compassionate pet fathers, bringing their often-overlooked stories of responsibility, perseverance, and unconditional love into the spotlight.

At a time when parenting narratives are increasingly evolving, Super Dad 2026 served as a meaningful platform to celebrate fathers who quietly shoulder immense emotional, physical, and social responsibilities. Through inspiring stories and heartfelt recognitions, the initiative highlighted the invaluable role fathers play in shaping families, communities, and society at large.

The evening witnessed the esteemed presence of renowned Indian writer and Indologist Nrisingha Prasad Bhaduri; celebrated musician fom Bhoomi Band, Soumitra Ray; Soma Chakraborty, President of Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Goodace Hospital, and President of Gouri’s Foundation & others, lending their support to an initiative dedicated to honouring the many facets of fatherhood.

More than an awards ceremony, Super Dad 2026 emerged as a celebration of human connection and dedication. From fathers balancing demanding careers with caregiving responsibilities to single fathers overcoming life’s challenges with remarkable determination, and pet fathers exemplifying unconditional love and commitment, the event paid tribute to every form of nurturing that enriches lives and strengthens society.

Speaking on the occasion, Soma Chakraborty, President, Kolkata Women’s Business Alliance, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Goodace Hospital, and President, Gouri’s Foundation, said, “Fatherhood today is no longer confined to traditional definitions. It is reflected in every act of sacrifice, every moment of care, and every responsibility embraced with love. Through ‘Super Dad 2026‘, we sought to celebrate those remarkable individuals who inspire us through their dedication, resilience, and compassion. Every father has a story worth honouring, and this platform is our tribute to those unsung heroes whose contributions shape lives and strengthen society.”

India Launches Anti-Dumping Probe into Resorcinol Imports from China and Japan

June 20: India has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of Resorcinol, a key chemical used in tyre and rubber manufacturing, from China and Japan over allegations of dumping and unfair pricing practices.

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), under the Ministry of Commerce, has launched the probe following a complaint filed by Atul Limited, which alleged that a surge in low-priced imports is causing material injury to the domestic industry.

According to the DGTR notification, prima facie evidence indicates that the subject goods may have been exported at prices below fair market value, prompting the initiation of a formal investigation into the extent and impact of such imports.

Resorcinol is an essential intermediate chemical used in bonding rubber to tyre cords and in manufacturing specialised resins, making it a critical input for the tyre and rubber industry.

The investigation will assess whether dumping has occurred and whether it has adversely affected domestic producers. Based on its findings, India may consider appropriate trade remedial measures in accordance with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

The move reflects India’s continued focus on protecting domestic manufacturing and ensuring fair competition in key industrial sectors.

Empowered MSMEs Can Accelerate Innovation, Exports, and Economic Transformation

June 20: The Minister has called for stronger empowerment of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), stating that the sector must play a central role in driving innovation, expanding exports, and strengthening overall economic growth.

Highlighting the importance of MSMEs in India’s economic structure, the Minister noted that the sector is a major contributor to employment generation, manufacturing activity, and entrepreneurial development. Strengthening MSMEs, he said, is essential for building a more resilient and competitive economy.

The Minister emphasized the need to improve access to finance, technology, skill development, and market linkages to enable MSMEs to scale effectively and compete in both domestic and global markets. He further stressed that innovation-led growth will be critical for enhancing productivity and improving the global competitiveness of small businesses.

Reiterating the importance of exports, the Minister urged efforts to integrate MSMEs more deeply into global value chains. Expanding export capabilities, he noted, will help diversify markets, increase foreign exchange earnings, and create new employment opportunities across sectors.

The government, the Minister added, remains committed to supporting MSMEs through targeted policy measures, digital adoption initiatives, and capacity-building programs aimed at fostering long-term, sustainable growth.

Northeast India Strengthens Links to Regional Markets and New Opportunities

June 20: Northeast India is steadily emerging as a key gateway for economic growth, connectivity, and regional engagement, driven by expanding infrastructure, enhanced trade linkages, and stronger cross-border cooperation.

Strategically located at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, the region is witnessing growing momentum as investments in transport, logistics, and digital infrastructure improve connectivity and unlock new opportunities for businesses and communities. These developments are reinforcing the Northeast’s position as a vital link between India and neighboring economies.

As connectivity corridors expand and regional partnerships deepen, the Northeast is becoming an increasingly important hub for trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. The region’s evolving role is expected to contribute significantly to economic development while strengthening regional integration and cooperation.

With sustained focus on infrastructure development and market access, Northeast India is well positioned to serve as a gateway to emerging opportunities and a catalyst for inclusive growth across the broader region.

Global Oil Markets Watch as 80 Million Barrels Prepare to Move Through Hormuz

June 20: The gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to release nearly 80 million barrels of crude oil into global markets, as dozens of oil tankers prepare to transit one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.

According to industry shipping data, approximately 40 Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) loaded with crude oil are positioned to move through the strait, carrying cargoes primarily destined for key Asian markets. Their passage will serve as an important indicator of confidence in the restoration of normal shipping operations following recent disruptions.

The resumption of tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is anticipated to strengthen global energy supply chains and improve crude availability at a time when markets continue to monitor geopolitical and logistical developments across the region. Analysts expect the release of delayed cargoes to help alleviate supply concerns and support greater stability in international oil markets.

As one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, the Strait of Hormuz plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of crude oil from major Gulf producers to customers around the world. The successful transit of these vessels would mark a significant milestone in the normalization of maritime trade and regional energy exports.

Industry participants, including shipowners, insurers, and traders, remain focused on ensuring safe and efficient navigation as shipping activity gradually returns to normal levels. Market observers will continue to monitor tanker movements and cargo flows for signs of sustained recovery in the weeks ahead.

Need to strengthen industry-scale knowledge of mining new age minerals to enable India to take a lead on extraction and processing of these minerals

Kolkata, June 19: The lack of industry–scale knowledge of mining of critical minerals is one of the biggest stumbling blocks for India when it comes to extraction and processing of these minerals.

According to Mr Asit Saha, Director General, Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Mines, Government of India, India has been a “powerhouse” when it comes to mining of bulk minerals. However, when it comes to new age minerals, we still do not have the industry–scale knowledge on extraction and processing of these minerals and that is preventing the country from taking a lead.

“We are very comfortably placed as far as iron ore, limestone, chromite, bauxite etc are concerned. But when we talk about these new age minerals, we are absolutely low-end. It is not only because of land acquisition issues and environmental issues. There are other factors which we need to take into cognisance. We still do not have the industry–scale knowledge as to how to extract and process these minerals. That is the biggest stumbling block, which is preventing us from taking the lead,” Mr Saha said at the 4^th Edition of Minerals and Mining Conclave, organised by Assocham here on Friday. 

Mining of critical minerals and REE (rare earth elements), which are relatively small scale, calls for a separate strategy and thinking, as against bulk mining.

“Critical minerals have emerged as a strategic currency of geopolitical influence. Lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earth elements, graphite, copper are no longer ordinary commodities. They have become strategic national assets. The global race is no longer for oil fields, it is now for minerals value chain,” Dr Pukhraj Nenival, Controller of Mines (East Zone), Indian Bureau of Mines, Ministry of Mines, said.

The government of India has initiated one of the most comprehensive reform trajectories in the history of Indian mining. From policy driven regulation, India is progressively moving towards technology enabled governance, investment facilitation, resource efficiency and global competitiveness. The reforms encompassing commercial mining, digitization, exploration acceleration, mineral auctions, critical mineral development and institutional strengthening have fundamentally redefined India‘s mining landscape, he added.

West Bengal has good critical deposits in the mineral bearing districts and the Directorate of Mines and Minerals has requested GSI to work on it. In some cases, it is also looking to work jointly with GSI, Ms Sarmistha Ghosh, Assistant Director, Directorate of Mines and Minerals, West Bengal said.

“India has huge reserve of rare earths, critical minerals like vanadium, titanium, graphite. But the main challenge lies in the beneficiation and process of getting, acquiring processing technology or beneficiation technology to extract these minerals from the rock and the primary mineral. Recent reforms and initiatives taken by Ministry of Mines and Ministry of Coal by Government of India have created a more transparent and investor-friendly ecosystem, opening new opportunities for exploration, beneficiation, value addition and international collaborations,” Mr Sanjiv Ganeriwala, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Mining Council – East, said.

Colloquial and HDFC Mutual Fund turn the camera around on Fathers with ‘Fathers In Focus’

Mumbai, June 20: Creative agency Colloquial, in partnership with HDFC Mutual Fund, has launched Fathers In Focus, a Father’s Day campaign that helps people use artificial intelligence to add their fathers back into old family photographs.

Fathers are the most consistently present people in our lives. And the most consistently invisible. They don’t announce what they do. They don’t ask to be noticed. They just show up. Every day. For decades. Quietly building a life for their families without ever stepping into the foreground.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the family photo album. Flip through any of them and you will find decades of birthdays, holidays, and ordinary afternoons. But barely a single photograph with the father in it.

This is the insight at the heart of Fathers In Focus. A father’s love, the campaign observes, works exactly like a SIP. Small, steady, unannounced contributions, compounding silently over decades, working in the background, never in the foreground. The family photo album is perhaps the most honest proof of that — built entirely by him, without him ever being in it.

The campaign launches with a film and is anchored by a digital platform at www.hdfcfund.com/fathers-in-focus, which offers people carefully crafted prompts that they can take to any AI platform of their choice to recreate old family photographs with their fathers finally in the frame. At a time when AI is predominantly being used to churn out meaningless brainrot content, Fathers In Focus asks people to use it for something more personal, something more meaningful.

“Every cultural movement and social trend finds its reflection in the smallest things. We chanced upon one such small thing — the family album. Looking at these albums, we realised that our fathers have spent decades behind the camera taking all the pictures while rarely featuring in them. And this became the core of our campaign. With Fathers In Focus, we are celebrating them by not only bringing this truth to life but also giving people a chance to alter it. In today’s age, where AI is used to manufacture moments that never happened, we wanted to use it to restore the ones that did.” — Srijan and Pradyot, Co-Founders and Creatives, Colloquial

Fathers In Focus is a reminder that the most powerful ideas are often hiding in plain sight. In the everyday moments, the unnoticed habits, the quiet presences that shape our lives without ever asking to be seen. For Colloquial, it’s important to find these truths and give themthe platform they deserve. Ideas that don’t just communicate a brand’s message, but reflect something real about the people they are speaking to.

Sterling Kanha Wins Tripadvisor Best of the Best for Fourth Consecutive Year; 28 Sterling Resorts Earn Travellers’ Choice Honours

Chennai,  June 19: Sterling Holiday Resorts has been recognised at the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026, with 28 resorts across its portfolio earning Travellers’ Choice honours. Sterling Kanha has also received the prestigious Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award fo the fourth consecutive year.

The 28 award-winning resorts represent approximately 49% of Sterling’s eligible resort portfolio, defined as properties that have completed at least one full year of operations. The breadth of recognition makes this a significant portfolio-level endorsement of Sterling’s guest experience across leisure, wildlife, wellness, pilgrimage, hill and emerging destinations.

Of the total 28 winning resorts, 21 have been recognised for two consecutive years, while 12 have achieved a three-year winning streak. This sustained performance reinforces the strength of Sterling’s service standards and operating discipline across destinations and resort formats.

While seven resorts joined the winners’ list this year, five resorts were recognized for the first time: Sterling Athirappilly, Sterling Brookstone Coorg, Sterling Manali, Sterling Mount Abu, Sterling Bagh Ranthambore, Sterling Rewild Sariska and Sterling Aravalli Udaipur.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, said:

“For Sterling, these awards are a measure of consistency, not isolated excellence. Recognition for 28 resorts – and a fourth consecutive Best of the Best honour for Sterling Kanha – shows that our guest promise is translating into dependable experiences across destinations and resort formats. As we grow, every resort must earn the same trust through thoughtful service, authentic local discovery and disciplined operations.”

These results reinforce Sterling’s strategy of combining dependable service standards with locally rooted experiences as it expands across India. 

Fortis Bannerghatta Road Successfully Removes 200 Plus Gallstones from 71-Year-Old Breast Cancer Patient Through Robot-Assisted Surgery

Bengaluru, June 19: Doctors at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, successfully removed more than 200 gallstones from a 71–year–old woman undergoing treatment for breast cancer, who was also battling a severe gallbladder infection and multiple co-morbidities. The highly challenging robot–assisted surgery in India was led by Dr. Manish Joshi and supported by a multi-disciplinary team of specialists. The presence of over 200 gallstones in a single patient is exceptionally rare and is estimated to occur in fewer than 1% of reported gallstone cases worldwide. As per available medical literature, this is believed to be the first reported case in India involving the removal of more than 200 gallstones in a patient undergoing active treatment for breast cancer.

The patient had been admitted at Fortis Bannerghatta with multiple health conditions, including abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Detailed Clinical investigations revealed acute gallbladder inflammation caused by multiple gallstones and further scans revealed that gallstones had blocked the common bile duct, resulting in swelling of the bile ducts and increasing the risk of serious complications. The patient also had pre-existing medical conditions, including hypothyroidism, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and cancer in the right breast for which she was ongoing chemotherapy. Owing to the patient’s age, the ongoing medical treatment, multiple co-morbidities and the severity of infection, the case posed significant surgical challenges and required careful multi-disciplinary evaluation before proceeding for the surgery.

Prior to the surgery, the gastroenterology team led by Dr. Ravindra B S performed an Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography procedure to remove the bile duct stone and place a temporary stent to help maintain bile flow. During the surgery, doctors found that the gallbladder was severely infected with pus and contained more than 200+ gallstones. Considering the severity and complexity of the condition, the surgical team performed a  robotic cholecystectomy to safely remove the infected gallbladder using  ICG Technique The patient was discharged in a stable condition on the second day after the surgery and was advised regular follow-up for continued monitoring and long-term care.

Giving details of the case, Dr. Manish Joshi, Director, Surgical Gastroenterology, Bariatric & Robotic Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, BG Road, Bengaluru, said,” Gallstone disease affects approximately 10–15% of adults worldwide, and at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road we perform nearly 400–500 gallbladder surgeries each year. However, most patients typically have only one to five gallstones. Discovering more than 200 gallstones in a single patient is extraordinarily rare and is estimated to occur in fewer than 1% of reported cases globally. With the support of robotic-assisted surgery, we were able to operate with enhanced precision, improved visualization, and greater control in this challenging situation, enabling a safer procedure and contributing to a faster recovery for the patient.”

Sharing her experience, the patient said, “I was in severe pain and quite worried because of my existing health condition. I am grateful to the doctors and medical team at Fortis Hospital, BG Road for treating me with such care and confidence. Thanks to the timely treatment and advanced robotic surgery, I recovered smoothly and was able to return home in stable condition.”

Mr. Gautham CB, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, said, “The successful management of this complex high-risk case reflects the strength of our multidisciplinary expertise and advanced robotic surgical capabilities at Fortis Hospital, BG Road. This achievement, which is considered a first in India, highlights our commitment to leveraging advanced technology and clinical excellence to deliver precise, patient-centric care even in the most challenging medical conditions.”

From Forgotten Space to Functional Living: The New Age of Basement Transformation in Modern Homes

In many homes, the basement has long been treated as an afterthought—an unfinished, dimly lit space used for storage or left completely unused. But that perception is changing rapidly. In today’s lifestyle-driven housing culture, where comfort, flexibility, and smart space utilization matter more than ever, basements are being reimagined as powerful extensions of everyday living.

What was once hidden below the surface is now becoming one of the most valuable parts of a home—capable of supporting work, wellness, entertainment, and even income generation.

Understanding the Two Paths: Finishing and Remodeling

Basement transformation generally follows two distinct approaches, depending on the condition of the space and the homeowner’s goals.

Basement Finishing: Creating Something New

Basement finishing refers to converting an unfinished underground area into a fully livable space.

This process typically involves:

• Building internal walls and structural framing
• Installing flooring and ceilings
• Setting up electrical wiring and lighting systems
• Adding insulation and moisture protection
• Integrating plumbing where needed

In simple terms, finishing turns an empty, raw structure into a complete, usable environment that feels like a natural extension of the home.

Basement Remodeling: Upgrading What Already Exists

Basement remodeling focuses on improving a space that is already finished but needs modernization or better functionality.

It may include:

• Changing room layouts and improving flow
• Updating interiors, flooring, and fixtures
• Enhancing lighting and ventilation
• Adding new functional zones such as offices or studios
• Improving comfort, aesthetics, and usability

Remodeling is about refining space to match evolving lifestyle needs.

Modern Techniques That Are Changing Basement Design

Today’s basement projects are no longer just construction work—they are carefully planned upgrades that combine comfort, safety, and modern living standards.

1. Moisture Protection and Long-Term Durability

One of the most important aspects of basement transformation is controlling moisture. Modern homes now use layered protection systems that include waterproof coatings, drainage solutions, and sealed wall structures. These methods help maintain a dry, safe, and long-lasting environment.

2. Insulation for Year-Round Comfort

Basements often face temperature fluctuations. New insulation techniques help maintain a balanced indoor climate, making the space usable in every season. This also reduces energy usage and improves overall comfort.

3. Lighting That Transforms Atmosphere

Since natural light is limited, lighting becomes a defining feature. Carefully designed lighting setups using layered fixtures, warm tones, and smart controls can completely change the mood of a basement, making it feel open, bright, and inviting.

4. Smart Home Features

Modern basements are increasingly integrated into connected home systems. Climate control, lighting, security, and entertainment can all be managed digitally, offering convenience and efficiency in daily use.

5. Flexible Space Design

One of the strongest trends in basement development is flexibility. Spaces are now designed to adapt over time—allowing a single room to function as an office during the day, a family lounge in the evening, or a guest room when needed.

Movable partitions, foldable furniture, and modular layouts make this possible.

How Basements Are Being Used Today

The purpose of basements has expanded far beyond storage. They are now becoming essential lifestyle spaces.

Work and Productivity Spaces

With remote and hybrid work becoming common, many homeowners are turning basements into quiet, dedicated work environments that support focus and professionalism.

Creative and Digital Studios

Basements are also being used as personal studios for content creation, design work, online teaching, and freelancing activities. The privacy and isolation they offer make them ideal for creative work.

Wellness and Fitness Areas

Many families are converting basements into fitness zones, yoga rooms, or relaxation spaces, making health and wellness more accessible within the home.

Entertainment and Family Spaces

Home theatres, gaming rooms, and family lounges are becoming popular basement uses, turning the space into a center for leisure and bonding.

Income-Generating Units

In some homes, basements are transformed into rental spaces or independent living units, creating additional income opportunities while increasing property usefulness.

Why Basement Transformation Matters Today

The growing interest in basement development reflects a broader shift in how people view their homes. It is no longer just about size—it is about how effectively space can support daily life.

A well-designed basement can:

• Increase usable living area without external expansion
• Improve comfort and lifestyle flexibility
• Add long-term value to the property
• Support modern work and living patterns
• Offer financial benefits through rental use

Conclusion

Basement transformation represents a quiet but powerful change in modern home design. It turns overlooked space into meaningful living areas that support how people live, work, and relax today.

With thoughtful planning and modern design approaches, basements are no longer forgotten corners—they are becoming some of the most important and versatile spaces in the home.