Category Archives: Business

Corporate Mitras Initiative to Boost MSME Growth in Tier-II and Tier-III Cities

New Delhi, July 27: The Corporate Mitras initiative has been launched to support the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Tier-II and Tier-III cities by providing mentorship, business guidance and access to industry networks.

The initiative aims to bridge the gap between corporate expertise and small businesses by connecting MSMEs with experienced professionals who can offer strategic advice on business expansion, technology adoption, financial management and market development.

By strengthening the capabilities of enterprises in smaller cities, the program seeks to improve their competitiveness, encourage innovation and create new opportunities for sustainable growth. It is also expected to enhance market access and help MSMEs adopt best practices to scale their operations.

The initiative is expected to contribute to inclusive economic development by empowering entrepreneurs in emerging business hubs and strengthening the MSME ecosystem across the country.

Indian Stocks Open Higher as Falling Crude Oil Prices Boost Sentiment

Mumbai, July 27: Indian benchmark equity indices opened higher on Monday, snapping a five-session losing streak, as a sharp decline in crude oil prices improved investor sentiment and boosted expectations for lower inflation and stronger corporate earnings.

The Nifty 50 rose about 0.7% in early trade, while the BSE Sensex gained a similar margin. Gains were broad-based, with financials, consumer stocks and utilities leading the advance after Brent crude prices fell following signs of easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Lower crude oil prices are generally viewed as positive for India, one of the world’s largest oil importers, as they help reduce import costs, ease inflationary pressures and support economic growth. Investors also drew support from stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings from several companies.

Market participants will continue to monitor global geopolitical developments, corporate earnings and upcoming central bank policy decisions for further direction.

Eastern India’s Biggest Robotics Championship “TECHNOXIAN 2026” witnesses over 500 Young Innovators at East Zonal Competitions of the World Robotics Championship

Kolkata, July 27: Dr. Sudhir Chandra Sur Institute of Technology and Sports Complex (SurTech), a JIS Group educational initiative hosted TECHNOXIAN 2026 East Zonal Competitions (10th Edition of the World Robotics Championship 2026) at its campus in Dum Dum, bringing together the brightest young innovators, future engineers and technology enthusiasts from across Eastern India. Organised in association with the World Robotics Organization (WORSO), the two-day championship witnessed the participation of more than 100 teams and over 500 participants from schools and colleges across the Eastern Zone, who competed in a series of cutting-edge robotics competitions, innovation-driven challenges and hands-on STEM experiences, showcasing exceptional creativity, technical excellence and problem-solving skills. The event was graced by Shri. Debdutta Guha, General Manager, MSME Technology Centre (Tool Room), Government of India; Raj Sharma, President, All India Council for Robotics & Automation; Smt. Alka Sachdeva, Vice President, All India Council for Robotics & Automation; Prof. (Dr.) Debasish De, CSE, Makaut; Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group; and Prof. (Dr.) Saradindu Panda, Principal, SurTech, amongst others.

One of the major highlights of the championship was the inauguration of SURVIA, an indigenously developed robot created at the AICTE IDEA Lab of SurTech, JIS Group. Developed through advanced research and innovation, SURVIA reflects the institution’s commitment to promoting next-generation technologies and strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem through practical, industry-oriented learning. Another significant attraction of the event was the official launch of an innovative device, the Wind and Solar Driven Mobile Charging Unit, jointly designed and developed by the Centre of Excellence (COE) – Livid Design Inc. and the Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering, SurTech, JIS Group. The sustainable innovation demonstrates the institution’s continued focus on clean energy solutions and industry-academia collaboration for addressing real-world challenges through technology.

TECHNOXIAN 2026 served as a dynamic platform for aspiring roboticists and technology enthusiasts to demonstrate their engineering capabilities while interacting with peers, mentors and industry experts. The championship encouraged participants to explore emerging technologies, collaborate on innovative solutions and gain hands-on exposure to the rapidly evolving fields of robotics, artificial intelligence and automation.

Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, said, “Innovation begins with curiosity, and platforms like TECHNOXIAN inspire young minds to transform ideas into impactful technological solutions. At JIS Group, we remain committed to nurturing future-ready talent by providing students with opportunities to experiment, innovate and excel in emerging technologies. The inauguration of SURVIA, along with the launch of the Wind and Solar Driven Mobile Charging Unit, further reflects our continuous endeavour to create an ecosystem where research, creativity and technological excellence thrive.”

FIA and FOM confirm that Malaysia will join the 2026 calendar, as host venue for the Bahrain Grand Prix

Dubai, UAE, July 27: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula One Management have confirmed that Malaysia will host the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit from 2–4 October 2026, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix.

The event, which is subject to final agreements and official sign-off, including the approval of the World Motor Sport Council, will become the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.

This solution demonstrates Formula 1’s ability to adapt quickly and find a way to ensure that the sport’s ecosystem of the sport continue to benefit from an extensive and exciting 2026 schedule, as well as recognising Bahrain’s place on the calendar and the generosity of Malaysia in making the replacement possible.

This agreement, reached between the FIA, FOM, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, His Majesty the King of Malaysia, and their respective governments, allows Formula 1 to preserve a Grand Prix that would otherwise have not happened. The rest of the schedule for 2026 remains unchanged.

This will be welcome news for Formula 1 fans around the world. Sepang is one of Formula 1’s most iconic and challenging circuits, known for its passionate fans, exciting racing and unpredictable weather, making it an ideal venue to host this round of the Championship.

His Excellency, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said: “I am incredibly proud of the collaboration that will enable Malaysia to host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the iconic Sepang International circuit later this year.

“Throughout this process, the FIA, Formula One Management, and our partners in Bahrain have worked tirelessly to explore every option, with the safety and wellbeing of the teams, volunteers, officials, our colleagues, and fans remaining our highest priority.
“Malaysia has long held an important place in the history of Formula One and the return of the Championship to Sepang is testament to our close relationship with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia, the continued commitment of the Malaysian Government, and the strength of international cooperation within our sport.
“My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa of Bahrain, for their vision and support in making this possible. We look forward to welcoming the global motorsport community back to Sepang.”

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, said: “With the blessings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of Bahrain, and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar, King of Malaysia, and building on the close and brotherly relations between our two countries, I am proud to join Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia in announcing that Bahrain will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, from 2 to 4 October 2026.

“This will be a wonderful experience for fans around the world and reflects Bahrain’s enduring commitment to, and passion for, the sport. Amid ongoing regional challenges, Bahrain is proud to stand as a pillar of stability for Formula 1, and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure a successful and memorable race for everyone involved.

“I offer my sincere appreciation to F1, the FIA, Bahrain International Circuit, Sepang International Circuit, and the teams for their support in helping us deliver an exciting weekend of racing.”

Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia said: “I extend my deepest appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as the Government and people of Bahrain, for the trust and confidence they have placed in Malaysia. We are honoured to support the Kingdom of Bahrain, Formula 1 and the FIA in hosting the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit this year.

“This collaboration is more than the staging of a world-class sporting event. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual trust and close partnership between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, while reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness and capability to host major international events.

“Malaysia stands ready to welcome Formula 1, the FIA, the teams and fans from around the world back to Sepang. We look forward to showcasing our world-class infrastructure, operational excellence and warm hospitality, while further strengthening the bonds between our two nations through this special occasion.”

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “We are delighted to confirm that Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2026. We have all shown once again that Formula 1 can adapt, find solutions and deliver results and give a great surprise to everyone following our sport.

“I would like to express our sincere thanks to Bahrain and Malaysia, notably His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the King and Prime Minister of Malaysia for their vision, passion and decisive action in making this exciting moment possible.

“I also want to thank the President of the FIA, His Excellency Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his partnership and collaboration. Most importantly, this is excellent news for our fans, who will continue to enjoy a packed calendar and the opportunity to see Formula 1 return to one of the sport’s most iconic circuits. Malaysia is an incredible country and Sepang has a rich history in Formula 1 and will provide a fantastic spectacle for fans both at the track and watching around the world.”

Eros Innovation and RunnTV Announce Strategic Partnership to Launch Eros Universe FAST Channels for Global Distribution

Mumbai, India July 25: Eros Innovation, a global Sovereign AI and Cultural Intelligence technology company, today announced a strategic partnership with RunnTV, one of India’s fastest-growing independent FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) platforms, to launch and globally distribute a slate of Eros Universe FAST channels.

As part of the collaboration, Eros Innovation will introduce two FAST channels, Eros Universe Bollywood Cinema and Eros Universe Entertainment, designed to bring its catalogue of Bollywood films and premium entertainment content to audiences worldwide. The channels will be powered by RunnTV‘s FAST technology infrastructure and distributed across a wide network of connected TV platforms, smart TV OEMs and OTT ecosystems.

The channels draw on a catalogue of over 11,000 films spanning Bollywood blockbusters and regional cinema.

This partnership represents a key milestone in Eros Innovation‘s global digital distribution strategy, enabling the company to expand its international reach and tap into the rapidly growing FAST and connected TV ecosystem.

“FAST is redefining how audiences consume premium content, and this partnership marks an important step in our journey to make Eros‘ rich content library more accessible to viewers worldwide, creating dedicated destinations for high-quality Indian entertainment,” said Kumar Ahuja, Group Chief Operating Officer, Eros Innovation. “We also plan to expand our FAST channel portfolio in the coming months as we continue to scale globally.”

Through the partnership, Eros Innovation will leverage RunnTV‘s end-to-end FAST capabilities, including channel creation, playout, monetisation and analytics, ensuring seamless deployment and scalable distribution across international markets.

“We are excited to collaborate with Eros and support their expansion into the FAST ecosystem,” said Manish Sinha, Founder and CEO, RunnTV. “Eros‘ iconic content library, combined with our technology and distribution capabilities, will enable the creation of compelling, high-quality FAST channels for global audiences. This partnership strengthens our commitment to helping content owners unlock new revenue streams and reach through FAST.”

This collaboration further strengthens the FAST ecosystem by bringing premium content to a wider connected TV audience, while creating new opportunities for advertisers to reach highly engaged viewers through brand-safe, data-driven advertising.

As the FAST landscape continues to evolve, ad-supported streaming is emerging as a key growth driver for premium content distribution, audience expansion and sustainable monetisation.

Major Maritime Boost: Rs 69,725 Crore Package for Shipbuilding Sector

New Delhi, July 25: The government has announced a major support package of Rs 69,725 crore aimed at strengthening India’s shipbuilding industry, enhancing maritime financing and accelerating growth in the country’s blue economy.

The initiative is expected to provide a significant boost to domestic shipyards, improve competitiveness and encourage greater participation in the global maritime sector. It will also help create a stronger ecosystem for ship construction, repair and related industries.

The package focuses on improving access to finance, supporting capacity expansion and promoting innovation in the shipbuilding sector. By addressing key challenges faced by the industry, the move aims to reduce dependence on foreign shipbuilding capabilities and position India as a major maritime hub.

The government said the initiative will generate new employment opportunities, support ancillary industries and contribute to the growth of coastal economies.

With India’s strategic location and expanding maritime trade, the package is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s shipping infrastructure and advancing its vision of becoming a global leader in the maritime sector.

Markets Under Pressure as Inflation Fears Hit Investor Sentiment

New Delhi, July 25: Indian equity markets ended the week on a weaker note, with benchmark indices Nifty and Sensex declining more than 2.3 per cent amid growing concerns over global inflation and uncertainty in international markets.

Investor sentiment remained cautious as persistent inflationary pressures and expectations of prolonged high interest rates in major economies affected market confidence. Global developments also influenced domestic trading trends, leading to increased volatility across sectors.

The decline reflected broader risk aversion among investors, with market participants closely monitoring inflation data, central bank policy signals and global economic indicators.

Despite the short-term pressure, analysts said India’s long-term growth prospects remain supported by strong domestic fundamentals, steady economic activity and continued policy reforms.

Market experts expect volatility to continue in the near term as investors assess global cues and the evolving inflation outlook.

UWF and NWFSC Expand Engineering Pathways with Four New Transfer Degree Programs

The University of West Florida and Northwest Florida State College are expanding opportunities for students to pursue engineering careers in Northwest Florida through four new Specialized Associate in Arts Transfer, or SAAT, degree pathways that create a seamless route from associate-level coursework at NWFSC to bachelor’s degree completion through UWF.

Approved by the Florida State Board of Education during its July 22 meeting in Orlando, the new pathways allow students to begin their engineering education at NWFSC’s Niceville campus and continue into UWF’s upper-division engineering programs at the joint NWFSC-UWF campus in Fort Walton Beach.

The four newly approved SAAT programs include civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.

“This partnership reflects what higher education should do – create opportunities that meet students where they are and prepare them for where they want to go,” UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. said. “Together, UWF and Northwest Florida State College are expanding access to engineering education while strengthening the workforce that will drive innovation and economic growth across Northwest Florida. Students can begin their academic journey at NWFSC and then complete a UWF engineering degree without leaving the community they call home.”

The new engineering pathways build upon the longstanding partnership between the two institutions to increase opportunities to complete bachelor’s degrees without leaving the region. 

“A student can start here, stay here and build a successful future here,” said NWFSC President Mel Ponder. “Students will be able to start their engineering degree at Northwest Florida State College, continue through the University of West Florida and complete a high-quality bachelor’s degree close to home. By working together, NWFSC and UWF are removing barriers, expanding access and building a stronger pipeline of engineers prepared to support our region’s military installations, defense industry and growing technology economy.” 

The SAAT degree allows state colleges like NWFSC to provide additional lower-division coursework beyond the traditional 60-credit Associate in Arts degree when students need specialized preparation before transferring into designated university programs. The structure helps students complete the mathematics, science and engineering prerequisites required for upper-division study before entering their bachelor’s degree programs.  

“This is exactly the kind of partnership that strengthens both our College and the communities we serve,” said Rhea Goff, chair of the NWFSC District Board of Trustees. “Students should not have to leave Northwest Florida to pursue an engineering education or prepare for careers in industries that are vital to our region. These new pathways give local students an affordable and accessible starting point while helping employers develop the highly skilled workforce they need.” 

The coordinated pathway is designed to provide students with a more seamless transition from NWFSC to UWF. Students will begin by completing foundational coursework at NWFSC before advancing into upper-division engineering instruction through UWF at the institutions’ joint campus in Fort Walton Beach. 

The new pathways will also support the region’s need for engineers in high-demand fields connected to aerospace, defense, construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, technology and advanced industry. By combining the accessibility and affordability of NWFSC with UWF’s upper-division engineering programs, students will have a clear route from their first college course through completion of a bachelor’s degree. 

Additional information regarding program enrollment, advising, course sequencing and anticipated start dates will be announced as implementation plans are finalized. 

OHRIA AYURVEDA Reimagines Ayurveda’s Oldest Overnight Ritual with India’s First Ghee Collagen Sleeping Mask

Delhi, India  July 25: As overnight skincare rituals continue to shape modern beauty routines, OHRIA AYURVEDA is taking the category back to its roots with the launch of India’s First Ghee Collagen Sleeping Mask – an innovation inspired by one of Ayurveda’s oldest and most revered skincare preparations, Shata Dhauta Ghrita (100-Times Washed Ghee). Positioned under the thought, “India’s First, Ayurveda’s Oldest.”, the First Gel-Based Ghee Collagen Sleeping Mask – Age Delay Night Ritual redefines overnight skincare by bringing together centuries-old Ayurvedic wisdom and modern skincare science in a lightweight, breathable gel-ghee hybrid that restores skin while you sleep. Unlike conventional sleeping masks that focus only on surface hydration, OHRIA’s latest innovation is rooted in the Ayurvedic philosophy of Rasayana—the science of deep nourishment and rejuvenation. Designed to work in harmony with the skin’s natural overnight repair cycle, it helps support natural collagen production, deeply hydrates, calms heat-stressed skin, improves the appearance of pigmentation and post-acne marks, and restores visible firmness and luminosity over time.

At the heart of the formulation lies Shata Dhauta Ghrita, a traditional Ayurvedic process in which pure cow’s ghee is washed one hundred times to transform it into an exceptionally lightweight, cooling, fast-absorbing preparation. Long celebrated in Ayurveda for its restorative properties, this time-honoured ritual has been reinterpreted into a modern gel-ghee hybrid texture that delivers all the nourishment of ghee without heaviness or greasiness, forming a breathable moisture-sealing layer suitable for every skin type—including sensitive and acne-prone skin. The formulation is further enriched with Naturally Derived Gotu Kola Exosomes, Peptides, Amino Acids, Sugarcane-Derived Hyaluronic Acid, and a 61% Ayurvedic herb blend featuring Manjistha, Sariva, Sandalwood, Rose Petals, Licorice, and Gotu Kola, ingredients traditionally celebrated for supporting skin renewal, calming inflammation, reducing the appearance of pigmentation, and enhancing the skin’s natural radiance. Rather than chasing temporary radiance, the Ghee Collagen Sleeping Mask introduces OHRIA AYURVEDA’s philosophy of Indian Glass Skin – healthy, luminous skin achieved through consistent overnight nourishment, repair, hydration, and restoration. Every application transforms sleep into an active skincare ritual, allowing the skin to repair while you rest and awaken with a visibly calmer, softer, more radiant complexion.

Speaking on the launch, Rajni Ohri, Founder of OHRIA AYURVEDA, said, “Ayurveda has always believed that healthy skin is nurtured through nourishment and restoration rather than quick fixes. With the Ghee Collagen Sleeping Mask, we wanted to revive one of Ayurveda’s oldest skincare preparations – Shata Dhauta Ghrita – and reinterpret it through modern formulation science. We call it The Overnight Eraser because it is designed to help visibly erase the effects of everyday skin stress, dehydration, dullness and fatigue overnight while supporting healthier, stronger and naturally radiant skin over time. Inspired by Rasayana, this product reflects our vision of introducing Indian Glass Skin through the wisdom of Ayurveda.” 

FII Outflows Continue from Indian Markets Amid Escalating Global Tensions

Mumbai, July 25: Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) outflows from Indian equity markets continued this week as escalating global geopolitical tensions and heightened risk aversion prompted overseas investors to reduce exposure to emerging markets.

Market participants remained cautious amid growing uncertainty surrounding global developments, leading to sustained selling by foreign investors. The outflows reflect a broader shift toward safer assets as investors assess the potential impact of geopolitical risks, inflationary pressures, and evolving monetary policy expectations across major economies.

Despite the continued FII selling, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) have provided support to the markets through consistent buying, helping cushion the impact of foreign fund withdrawals. Analysts note that India’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals, resilient corporate earnings, and long-term growth prospects continue to underpin investor confidence.

Market experts expect near-term volatility to persist as global events unfold. Investor sentiment is likely to remain sensitive to geopolitical developments, central bank policy signals, commodity price movements, and global capital flows.

While foreign portfolio flows may remain under pressure in the short term, India’s structural growth story and improving economic outlook are expected to support medium- to long-term investment interest.