23, Apr 2026
The Leela Gandhinagar Elevates Sustainable Luxury with Thoughtful E-Cycle Guest Experiences
Gandhinagar, Apr 23: On the occasion of Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to redefine luxury hospitality by placing sustainability at the heart of the guest journey with the introduction of an immersive e–cycle experience, launched in collaboration with Svitch.
Blending mindful mobility with refined comfort, the thoughtfully curated e–cycle experience invites guests to explore the serene surroundings of Gandhinagar at a gentle, unhurried pace. Designed as a low-impact alternative to conventional transport, the initiative encourages guests to engage more consciously with their environment while supporting efforts to reduce overall carbon impact.
This initiative reflects a broader shift in luxury travel where guests increasingly seek meaningful, environmentally responsible experiences without compromising on comfort or sophistication. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability is not positioned as an add-on, but seamlessly integrated into the overall guest experience, enhancing both wellbeing and awareness.
Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, said, “At The Leela Gandhinagar, we are committed to creating experiences that are both enriching and responsible. The introduction of e-cycles is a step towards encouraging mindful exploration, while reinforcing our ongoing efforts to embed sustainability into every aspect of the guest journey.”
The launch was marked by an Earth Day engagement, transforming the experience into a moment of collective reflection and participation. Guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community came together for a cyclethon that celebrated not just movement, but a shared commitment to sustainable living, fostering a deeper connection between people, place, and purpose.
Following the ride, guests were invited to unwind at the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, an experience that complements the sustainability narrative with a focus on wellness and mindful indulgence.
Through initiatives like these, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury where sustainability enhances the guest journey. By weaving eco-conscious choices into everyday experiences, the hotel is not only advancing its environmental commitments but also inspiring guests to embrace more mindful ways of travel.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Apr 2026
Global Turbine Asia Advances Aerospace Growth, Capabilities and Talent Development Through Strategic Partnerships
KUALA LUMPUR, Apr 22 - Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd. (“GTA” or the “Company”), a Malaysian-based engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (“MRO”) and support service provider serving military and civil operators in Malaysia, and a Certified Maintenance Centre (“CMC”) for Safran Helicopter Engines, today exchanged two Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) with Airbus Defence and Space (“Airbus DS”)and Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (“UPNM”), as well as a Note of Understanding (“NoU”) with Perbadanan Hal Ehwal Bekas Angkatan Tentera (“PERHEBAT”). The signings were witnessed by Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Haji Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence, Malaysia.
MoU exchange between Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd. & Airbus Defence & Space, witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Haji Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence, MINDEF, Malaysia.
Note of Understanding between Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd & Perbadanan Hal Ehwal Bekas Angkatan Tentera, witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Haji Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence, MINDEF, Malaysia accompanied by YBhg. Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali, Secretary General, MINDEF, Malaysia.
MoU exchange between Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd. & Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Haji Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence, MINDEF, Malaysia.
The MoUs reflect GTA’s strategic focus on strengthening the aerospace and defence ecosystem through cross-border commercial cooperation, talent development, research partnerships and long-term capability building, aligned with evolving regional industry needs.
GTA’s MoU with Airbus DS will evaluate opportunities to develop Malaysia’s military aircraft MRO capabilities and assess GTA as a potential Industrial Collaboration Programme (“ICP”) beneficiary, which will advance local aerospace self-reliance, facilitateknowledge and capability transfer, and supply chain integration, pending approvals.
Through its MoU with UPNM, GTA aims to strengthen industry-academia collaboration in research, innovation, talent development, and technical services. Areas of cooperation may include joint R&D, training and postgraduate pathways, technical advisory services, workshops and centres of expertise, as well as potential industry-on-campus initiatives, subject to approvals and separate agreements where required.
GTA’s NoU with PERHEBAT supports the career transition of retiring Malaysian Armed Forces personnel and veterans by providing industrial training, workplace exposure, and potential employment opportunities. The collaboration includes job-skills alignment, programme monitoring, and joint initiatives aimed at enhancing the employability and well-being of Veteran Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (“ATM”).
Dato’ Nonee Ashirin Dato Mohd Radzi, Executive Chairman of Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd., said, “These MoUs mark an important step in strengthening GTA’s role within the aerospace and defence ecosystem, not only as an engine support and MRO provider, but also as a long-term partner in capability development, talent cultivation and strategic collaboration.”
She added, “Together, these partnerships reflect our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient and future-ready platform for the industry.
22, Apr 2026
EBG Foundation Launches ‘Sambhav Hai’ on Earth Day to Build Carbon-Neutral Villages Across India
New Delhi, Apr 22: As the world marks Earth Day, EBG Foundation has launched ‘Sambhav Hai’, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by EBG Group Founder and Chairman Dr Irfan Khan to drive climate action at the grassroots and build stronger, more sustainable rural communities. The programme begins with the adoption of Charla Thanda in Telangana’s Nalgonda district, laying the groundwork for a scalable, community-led transformation.
Positioned as a key pillar within the Foundation’s broader nation-building agenda, Sambhav Hai moves beyond fragmented development efforts through a unified, data-driven framework, with a long-term vision of developing carbon–neutral villages across India. The initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions by 10–20 percent in the first year, progressing towards full carbon neutrality within three years.
The initiative will roll out in phases beginning with 50 villages in Year 1 with an allocation of ₹30 crore, expanding to 150 villages in Year 2 and scaling up to 750 villages along with the support of government institutions. This phased roadmap establishes Sambhav Hai as one of the most ambitious rural sustainability programmes in the country.
At Charla Thanda, the Foundation has initiated on-ground interventions beginning with household-level data mapping to establish a comprehensive climate and resource baseline. The programme will focus on improving access to safe drinking water, strengthening groundwater recharge systems, and implementing structured waste segregation and composting solutions.
Afforestation drives and regenerative land practices will further enhance green cover, while local volunteers are being trained to sustain these efforts. The village will serve as a live demonstration of the ‘Minus One Village’ model, creating a blueprint for replication across regions.
Speaking on the launch, Dr Irfan Khan said, “Real change cannot come from isolated interventions. With Sambhav Hai, we are building a model where environmental sustainability, economic progress, and community ownership go hand in hand. Our aim is to empower villages with the tools, data, and accountability systems they need to lead their own transformation and contribute meaningfully to India’s climate goals.”
In parallel with the phased roadmap, the Foundation will initiate work across multiple states as part of its broader national rollout, expanding the programme’s footprint beyond Telangana and strengthening its vision of a pan-India rural sustainability movement.
Suresh Goyal, Additional Director, EBG Foundation, said, “Sambhav Hai’s success will be tracked through a robust framework that integrates water, energy, waste, food and land systems, along with carbon footprint metrics under the ‘Minus One Village’ model. This ensures that the impact is measurable, accountable, and scalable across geographies.”
Commenting on the idea behind the initiative, Ranjitha M, Additional Director, said, “What began as a simple idea has evolved into a powerful movement for large-scale transformation. By placing villages at the centre of climate action and bridging the gap between policy and on-ground implementation, Sambhav Hai creates a pathway for communities to actively lead India’s journey towards environmental resilience.”
With its first on-ground implementation underway, Sambhav Hai reflects EBG Foundation’s long-term commitment to creating measurable, scalable impact by placing rural communities at the centre of India’s climate action journey.
The launch was attended by Chief Guests Prof. RK Kotnala, Chairman of the New Science Creators Institute (NSCI); Sachin Sengar, youngest Indian delegate at the World Economic Forum and ESG & Net Zero Strategist; Pattnaik Ompriya Mohanty, entrepreneur, environmentalist and social activist; Smt. Sarada Narella, Women’s Commission activist from TelangEBFEana, and Ajai Arora, orator, author, and expert in carbon accounting and energy management. The event was also graced by Hari Kiran, Co-founder of EBG Group.
22, Apr 2026
Demanlink Unveils Sarawak’s First Telecommunications Smart Pole in Siburan and Debuts its First Built-to-Suit Tower in Bintulu
Milestone deployments strengthen 5G connectivity, enhance digital access in urban developments and transport networks.
SARAWAK, Malaysia, Apr 22 - Demanlink Connexion Sdn. Bhd. (“Demanlink”), a Sarawak-based telecommunications infrastructure company, today announced the successful deployment of two tailored connectivity solutions for communities in Siburan and Bintulu. The Company deployed Sarawak’s first telecommunications smart pole, a multi-function street infrastructure in Siburan, and Demanlink’s first built-to-suit (B2S) site in Kampung Jepak, Bintulu. Both solutions comprise future-ready 5G equipment and serve to enhance connectivity coverage in the state’s growing urban areas and transport networks.
Situated at the heart of Taman Impiana, Siburan, the smart pole delivers seamless 5G connectivity for residents and commuters in the area. Its compact, multi-functional design supports 5G-ready equipment and enables co-location for multiple Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), optimizing infrastructure use and network coverage. It also functions as a lamp pole, enhancing visibility for both drivers and pedestrians alike.
In addition, Demanlink’s maiden B2S site in Kampung Jepak, Bintulu will deliver seamless network coverage for the surrounding residential and commercial areas as well as a nearby transport network. The new telecommunications site is also strategically located close to six schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres, enabling students and educators to access digital learning platforms and online educational resources with high-speed connectivity. The tower is also expected to strengthen mobile coverage along nearby stretches of the Pan Borneo Highway, improving connectivity, navigation and safety for users of the state’s key transport corridor.
Hanad Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of Demanlink said, “Technology is a powerful socioeconomic catalyst. These deployments are about more than coverage. They are about giving communities in Siburan and Bintulu the digital foundation to participate in Sarawak’s growth. As the state works toward its 2030 digital economy ambitions, Demanlink’s role is to make that infrastructure a reality, one community at a time.”
Following these deployments, Demanlink continues to expand its footprint across Sarawak in partnership with key local and industry stakeholders. Most recently, the company completed an In-Building Coverage (IBC) deployment at One Shell Square Miri, bringing high-speed 5G connectivity to one of the state’s key energy sector hubs. Building on this momentum, Demanlink is also currently deploying several high-speed 5G IBC sites across Sarawak, further growing its portfolio of macro sites, smart poles, and in-building solutions to serve the state’s evolving connectivity needs.
With a clear focus on delivery excellence, speed-to-market, and local collaborations, Demanlink aims to play a long-term role in strengthening Sarawak’s connectivity landscape and enabling inclusive economic growth across communities and enterprises.
22, Apr 2026
Infidigit Appoints Rettwij Hastu as SVP Revenue Growth to Accelerate AI-Led Expansion
Mumbai, April 21: Infidigit, a leading AI-driven digital growth partner, has announced the appointment of Rettwij Hastu as Senior Vice President – Revenue Growth, marking a strategic step in its transition from a traditional SEO agency to a revenue-focused growth partner in the AI-driven discovery era.
The appointment reinforces Infidigit’s focus on building scalable, outcome-driven growth systems that connect marketing investments directly to measurable business revenue.
Driving Revenue-Centric Growth Strategy
In his new role, Rettwij Hastu will lead the company’s revenue growth function with a mandate to develop a predictable commercial engine aligned with business outcomes.
His key responsibilities will include:
- Driving pipeline growth and revenue acceleration
- Strengthening new business development and strategic partnerships
- Expanding Infidigit’s presence across Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia
- Aligning marketing, sales, and partnerships to measurable revenue impact
With over 15 years of experience across marketing and business leadership roles, Rettwij has previously held key positions at HARBOR365, RHAD, EMotorad, and WATConsult, where he helped scale marketing into a revenue-generating function across global markets.
Leadership Perspective
Speaking on the appointment, Kaushal Thakkar, CEO of Infidigit, said:
“Marketing today is no longer just about visibility; it must be accountable for revenue. As AI reshapes how customers discover brands, businesses need systems that connect discovery to measurable outcomes. Rettwij brings strong commercial expertise that strengthens our evolution into a true revenue growth partner.”
Perspective from the New SVP
Commenting on his appointment, Rettwij Hastu, SVP – Revenue Growth, Infidigit, said:
“As discovery becomes increasingly AI-driven across search engines and digital ecosystems, brands must rethink growth. I am excited to help build a scalable revenue engine that delivers measurable business impact in this evolving landscape.”
Focus on AI-Driven Discovery Transformation
Infidigit’s growth strategy is centered around helping brands adapt to evolving digital discovery models, including:
- AI-generated search responses and recommendations
- Zero-click search experiences
- Product-led and ecosystem-based discovery journeys
This shift is driving the rise of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)—a new discipline focused on improving brand visibility within AI-powered platforms.
Strengthening AI-Led Growth Capabilities
With this appointment, Infidigit strengthens its position as a revenue-first digital growth partner, enabling brands to convert AI visibility into tangible business outcomes in an increasingly AI-native search environment.
22, Apr 2026
Sensex Drops 756 Points, Nifty Falls 198 on Weak IT and Higher Crude
Mumbai, Apr 22 (BNP): Indian equity benchmarks ended lower on Wednesday, with the Nifty declining 198 points and the Sensex falling 756 points, driven by weakness in IT stocks and concerns over rising crude oil prices.
The IT sector emerged as the key drag on the indices, following subdued global cues and profit booking in heavyweight technology stocks. Additionally, higher crude oil prices raised concerns over inflationary pressures and input costs, further impacting investor sentiment.
Market participants remained cautious amid global uncertainty, leading to broad-based selling across select sectors. Analysts highlighted that sustained strength in crude oil could continue to influence market direction in the near term.
Despite volatility during the session, markets are expected to track global trends and crude oil movements for further cues.
22, Apr 2026
The Complete Guide to Digital Marketing for Businesses
Digital marketing has become a core part of how modern businesses grow and compete. With more people spending time online, businesses must build a strong digital presence to stay relevant. It is no longer optional it is essential for visibility, customer engagement, and long-term success. this guide breaks down digital marketing into its key components, explains why it matters, and shows how businesses can build an effective strategy.
Digital Marketing: An Overview
Digital marketing includes all marketing efforts that use the internet or electronic devices, such as search engines, websites, social media, email, and mobile apps, to reach target audiences. Unlike traditional marketing, digital marketing allows precise targeting and real-time tracking of performance, helping businesses reach the right people at the right time and measure results effectively. It is a flexible, data-driven approach that enables continuous improvement based on user behavior and feedback.
Why Digital Marketing is Important for Businesses
Digital marketing helps businesses reach a global audience at a low cost, allowing even small companies to compete with larger brands through smart strategies. It is also highly cost-efficient compared to traditional advertising like TV or print media while often delivering better results. Most importantly, it enhances customer engagement by enabling direct interaction through comments, messages, and personalized content, which builds trust and long-term relationships.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
SEO is the process of improving a website’s visibility on search engines like Google to increase organic traffic. It includes keyword research, content optimization, technical improvements, and backlink building. When done effectively, SEO helps businesses attract users without paid ads and becomes one of the most cost-effective strategies for long-term growth.
Content Marketing
Content marketing involves creating valuable and relevant content such as blogs, articles, videos, infographics, and guides to attract and retain customers. Instead of directly promoting products, it provides helpful information that solves customer problems, building trust and establishing the business as an expert. Consistent content creation also improves SEO and boosts online visibility over time.
Social Media Marketing
Social media marketing uses platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (Twitter) to promote products and engage with audiences. It allows businesses to share updates, run ads, and interact directly with customers, creating a more personal connection with the brand. It is also a powerful way to build brand awareness and reach new customers quickly.
Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC)
PPC advertising lets businesses gain immediate visibility on search engines and other platforms, with Google Ads being one of the most popular systems. It works on a pay-per-click model where businesses only pay when someone clicks their ad, making it performance-based. PPC is especially useful for driving quick traffic, launching new products, and targeting competitive keywords.
Email Marketing
Email marketing involves sending targeted messages to users who have shown interest in a business, including newsletters, promotions, product updates, and personalized offers. Since emails reach users directly in their inbox, they are highly effective for engagement. When used well, email marketing helps build long-term customer relationships and encourages repeat business.
Affiliate and Influencer Marketing
Affiliate marketing lets businesses partner with individuals who promote products for a commission, helping expand reach without upfront costs. Influencer marketing uses popular online personalities to promote products, often resulting in higher trust, engagement, and conversions. Both strategies help businesses grow faster by leveraging external audiences.
Building a Digital Marketing Strategy
A successful digital marketing strategy starts with clear goals like increasing brand awareness, generating leads, or boosting sales. Next, businesses must identify their target audience by understanding their behavior, preferences, and demographics. Choosing the right platforms is also important to reach the right people effectively. Finally, businesses should track performance using analytics tools and regularly optimize campaigns for better results.
Challenges in Digital Marketing
Despite its benefits, digital marketing also has several challenges. High competition makes it difficult for businesses to stand out, while frequent changes in platform algorithms can impact reach and visibility. Generating quality leads requires proper targeting and strategy, and managing multiple platforms along with measuring long-term ROI often demands significant time and expertise.
Future of Digital Marketing
The future of digital marketing is driven by technology, with artificial intelligence and automation making campaigns more efficient and intelligent. Personalization is becoming increasingly important as customers expect tailored experiences based on their behavior and preferences. At the same time, video content—especially short-form videos and live streaming—is rapidly growing and boosting engagement. Businesses that adapt to these trends will stay competitive in the evolving digital landscape.
Conclusion
Digital marketing is a powerful tool that helps businesses grow in the modern digital world. It includes strategies like SEO, content marketing, social media, PPC, email marketing, and influencer partnerships.Success in digital marketing requires planning, consistency, and continuous optimization. Businesses must stay updated with trends and focus on delivering value to their audience.
22, Apr 2026
RuPay Credit Cards Near 40 pc Share in New Issuances on UPI Boost
News Delhi, Apr 22 (BNP): India’s credit card landscape is witnessing a significant shift, with RuPay credit cards rapidly gaining traction and nearing a 40% share in new issuances.
The growth is being driven by the integration of RuPay credit cards with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), enabling users to make seamless payments through QR codes across a wide network of merchants. This feature has expanded the usability of credit cards beyond traditional swipe and online transactions.
RuPay credit cards ride UPI growth, approach nearly 40% share in new issuances https://t.co/94cue2lzmJ
via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/EaIC9cDs6C
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2026
The increased convenience is encouraging wider adoption, particularly among first-time credit users and consumers in smaller cities, where QR-based payments are deeply embedded in everyday transactions.
Banks and financial institutions are also supporting this trend by promoting RuPay credit cards as a cost-effective and accessible option, aligning with the country’s push for strengthening domestic payment systems.
The rising share of RuPay credit cards reflects the evolving digital payments ecosystem in India, where innovation and infrastructure are enabling greater financial inclusion and transforming consumer spending behaviour.
With UPI continuing to expand its footprint, RuPay credit cards are expected to play a growing role in bridging digital payments and formal credit access.
22, Apr 2026
India’s Seafood Exports Cross INR 72,325 Crore in FY26, Driven by Shrimp Demand and New Market Growth
Apr 22 (BNP): India’s seafood exports have crossed ₹72,325.82 crore in FY26, supported by strong global demand for shrimp and continued diversification into new international markets.
Industry data indicates that shrimp remains the dominant export segment, contributing the largest share of overall seafood shipments. Improved aquaculture practices, better quality control, and expanding export linkages have further strengthened India’s position in global seafood trade.
Exporters have also benefited from gradual diversification beyond traditional markets, with increasing demand emerging from newer destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and select Western regions. This shift has helped cushion the sector against regional trade fluctuations and price volatility.
Despite global supply chain challenges, India’s seafood industry has maintained steady growth, supported by advancements in cold chain infrastructure, processing capacity, and compliance with international standards.
Trade experts note that sustained investment in aquaculture and market expansion strategies will be key to maintaining export momentum in the coming years, especially as global demand for seafood continues to rise.
The sector’s performance underscores its growing importance in India’s agricultural export basket and its contribution to rural livelihoods, particularly in coastal states.
22, Apr 2026
Les Roches Launches SPARK Start-Up Summit to Shape the Future of Hospitality
April 22: Les Roches has unveiled the SPARK Start-Up Summit, a new platform aimed at exploring the evolving dynamics of hospitality, travel, and customer experience. The inaugural edition, held from April 15–17, 2026 at its Crans-Montana campus, brought together startups, industry experts, researchers, and professionals to examine the intersection of technology, human experience, and sustainability in the sector.
Designed as a forward-looking forum, the three-day summit featured startup pitches, keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, with a strong focus on applied research and Swiss innovation. The event underscored a shared industry perspective that hospitality is entering a transformative phase driven by artificial intelligence, data, and changing customer expectations.
A key theme across discussions was the role of AI as an enabler rather than a replacement for human interaction. Speakers highlighted that successful implementation of AI in hospitality depends on reliable data, relevant use cases, and a deep understanding of guest expectations. Carlos Díez de la Lastra noted that the initiative aims to balance innovation with the fundamentally human nature of hospitality, while preparing future leaders to navigate this evolving landscape.
The summit also addressed broader industry challenges, including data governance, experiential luxury, and sustainability. Experts emphasized the need for transparent data practices, locally rooted hospitality models, and a shift from minimizing negative impact to creating positive value for communities and ecosystems.
Strengthening ties with Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem was another key highlight, with participation from Switzerland Innovation Park Network West EPFL and IDIAP Research Institute, reinforcing collaboration between hospitality and advanced research networks.
The start-up competition recognized four ventures—Agimus Technologies, Grill, Noah Journey, and GuestPulse—across multiple award categories. These awards provide incubation support, ecosystem access, and go-to-market opportunities, helping accelerate innovation within the hospitality sector.
SPARK is envisioned as a long-term initiative, creating a collaborative platform for experimentation, dialogue, and real-world application of ideas shaping the future of hospitality. A second edition of the summit has already been announced for February 2027.
With this launch, Les Roches positions itself at the forefront of hospitality innovation, fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to integrate technology, sustainability, and human-centric experiences.
