7, Apr 2026
Tiger Shroff Joins SLOVIC as Brand Ambassador with Campaign ‘Gym Ghar Lao’

 

Tiger Shroff Joins SLOVIC as Brand Ambassador with Campaign ‘Gym Ghar Lao’

New Delhi, Apr 07: SLOVIC, one of  India’s leading fitness gear and sporting goods brands, has announced actor and fitness icon Tiger Shroff as its brand ambassador. Marking the association, the brand has also unveiled its new campaign, ‘SLOVIC: Gym Ghar Lao’, built around the idea that if life makes it hard to go to the gym, bring the gym home with SLOVIC.

The campaign reflects the brand’s core belief that fitness should not be limited by time, location, or access. It should be simple, flexible, and within everyone’s reach. With a wide range of functional workout gear including pull-up bars, resistance bands and tubes, dumbbells, adjustable dumbbells, yoga mats and other practical fitness essentials, SLOVIC is working to simplify people’s lives and democratize fitness for the rest of India.

The timing is significant. According to the World Health Organization, 49.4% of adults in India were insufficiently physically active in 2022. Meanwhile, Deloitte India and HFA report that fitness facility membership penetration in India stood at just 0.8% in 2024, with the top 10 cities accounting for 56% of market revenue, highlighting the significant headroom beyond metro-centric fitness models.

Built as an age-inclusive and gender-inclusive brand, SLOVIC is designed for a broad spectrum of consumers, from children starting early movement routines and young adults building strength, to busy professionals navigating erratic schedules and 50-plus consumers prioritising mobility and strength training. The brand’s value-for-money proposition sits at the heart of the campaign, making it possible for consumers to begin their fitness journey with simple, price-effective products rather than an elaborate setup.

Actor Tiger Shroff said,

“Fitness has always been a way of life for me, which is why joining SLOVIC as brand ambassador felt like a natural fit. I connect with the brand’s vision of making fitness simpler, more accessible and part of everyday life.”

Aqib Mohammed, Co- Founder, SLOVIC, said,

“Tiger Shroff coming on board as SLOVIC’s brand ambassador is a strong cultural marker for where the brand is headed. For us, the larger opportunity is not just selling equipment, but rethinking how fitness fits into Indian lives. If someone can start their journey at home with something as basic as dumbbells, resistance bands or a skipping rope, at an entry point of around Rs 500, then fitness becomes far more democratic, practical and consistent. That is the thinking behind ‘Gym Ghar Lao’.”

The campaign will roll out across digital platforms, supported by films and content that spotlight access, convenience and the freedom to train anytime, anywhere. 

Shashwat Diesh, Co- Founder, SLOVIC

“The idea behind SLOVIC has always been to remove friction from fitness. Whether that friction is cost, convenience or access, we want to solve it through products that are practical, high-quality and built for everyday use. With Tiger Shroff coming on board as brand ambassador, we are able to amplify that thought in a way that is both aspirational and deeply relatable.”

Available across leading e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Flipkart, Blinkit, Zepto and Instamart, SLOVIC is making it easier for consumers to get started with fitness as simply as placing an order.

7, Apr 2026
Ultraviolette Accelerates Europe Expansion; Enters Hungary and the Danube Region in Partnership with Elektrorider

Bengaluru, Apr 07: Ultraviolette is proud to unveil its latest strategic alliance with Elektrorider, appointing them as the official importer and distributor for Hungary, Croatia, Slovakia, Romania, Slovenia, and Czech Republic. With this partnership, Ultraviolette further strengthens and expands its foothold across 19 European Countries.

Ultraviolette Accelerates Europe Expansion; Enters Hungary and the Danube Region in Partnership with Elektrorider

 This partnership represents a pivotal chapter in Ultraviolette’s global expansion strategy and commitment to Making in India, for the World. Through this alliance, Ultraviolette will be introducing its performance electric motorcycles, beginning with the renowned F77 MACH 2 and F77 SuperStreet. Building on Elektrorider’s established retail presence in electric motorcycles, scooters and e-bikes, Ultraviolette is poised for successful entry and sustained growth across these territories.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-founder of Ultraviolette, stated

“We are excited to partner with Elektrorider to introduce the Ultraviolette brand in Hungary and Central Europe. This alliance marks a pivotal milestone in our global expansion as Ultraviolette moves beyond India into some of the world’s most discerning motorcycling markets. With a strong foothold already established across 12 European countries, Ultraviolette is poised to accelerate worldwide growth following successful launches in these demanding countries. To riders across Hungary and Central Europe, we seek to bring Aviation based design, unmatched capability and performance, along with future-forward technology that redefine the motorcycling experience with every Ultraviolette ride. Guided by this vision, we are confident that this partnership will establish a world-class Ultraviolette ecosystem, right from product experience to aftersales support. This is only the beginning, and we are excited and confident of the journey ahead.”

Attila Pavuk, COO of Elektrorider, commented

We are equally excited and proud to introduce Ultraviolette to Hungary and the Central European market and go ballistic with the brands both visually striking and technologically cutting-edge performance motorcycles. At Elektrorider we represent a lifestyle built around performance, freedom, adventure, and reliability. With deep roots in the CEE market, we combine data-driven insight with real riding experience; we don’t guess but listen and analyze. We understand this region because we live here, ride here, and build meaningful partnerships with brands that share the same high standards, such as Ultraviolette. To motorcycle enthusiasts throughout Hungary and Central Europe, this alliance merges India’s high-tech offer, bold design, exceptional capability, and forward-looking technology with European riding expectations that elevate the electric experience to the next level. With this vision at the core of our partnership, this marks the start of an exciting journey, and we couldn’t be more enthusiastic about what lies ahead.

Ultraviolette will be offering the F77 MACH 2 and F77 SuperStreet for the above markets.

7, Apr 2026
No Cutbacks, Just Care: Dubai-Based Milano by Danube Hosts Employee Retreat Led By Mr. Anis Sajan

No Cutbacks, Just Care: Dubai-Based Milano by Danube Hosts Employee Retreat Led By Mr. Anis Sajan

 

 

Apr 07: At a time when many organizations are responding to global uncertainty with layoffs, salary cuts, and reduced employee engagement, Milano by Danube continues to stand firm in its people-first philosophy. Through meaningful initiatives, the company prioritizes employee wellbeing, unity, and long-term resilience. The brand under the leadership of Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group, has taken a distinctly different path, one that puts people first.

 Milano by Danube recently concluded a thoughtfully designed employee staycation in Dubai at a five star property (Anantara Resort), reinforcing its commitment to employee wellbeing, this initiative reflects a balanced approach between business continuity and people-first decision-making. Milano by Danube recognized a visible decline in employee motivation and a rise in emotionally driven decision-making since the onset of the conflict. Anis Sajan personally led the team of Milano by Danube on their annual staycation in Dubai where the team engaged in fun activities, team-building sessions, beach time, and poolside experiences, creating space to recharge and reconnect, continuing a long-standing tradition despite being advised otherwise by many.

 “During uncertain times, it becomes even more important to stay connected as a team,” said Anis Sajan. “This retreat was about creating a safe and supportive environment where our employees could step away from daily pressures, recalibrate, and return with renewed clarity and energy.”

 Milano by Danube ensured that the retreat was executed with comprehensive safety measures at every stage. From planning to execution, employee security and comfort remained central, making the initiative both responsible and reassuring. More than just a staycation, the retreat was a conscious effort to give employees the space to pause, recharge, and reconnect beyond the demands of daily operations.

 Adding a personal touch to the experience, the retreat was also a celebration of Sahil Sajan’s 25th birthday, the director of Milano by Danube, offering a moment of celebration and togetherness that further strengthened team bonds in an otherwise challenging time.

 Dubai’s global reputation for safety, stability, and strong governance made it the ideal choice for the retreat. The leadership’s confidence in the UAE’s ability to provide a secure environment enabled them to move forward with clarity and assurance. “The trust we have in Dubai’s leadership and infrastructure made this decision easier,” added Sajan. “It allowed us to focus entirely on our people, knowing they were in a safe and well-managed environment.”

 Athul Krishnan, an employee of Danube Group, said, “This retreat was a much-needed break for all of us. The past few weeks have been emotionally challenging, and there has been a constant sense of tension. However, seeing our company take this initiative truly reassured us and reminded us that our wellbeing matters.”

 Milano by Danube continues to navigate global challenges with a steady and thoughtful approach, ensuring that employee wellbeing remains at the forefront of its priorities. The retreat underscores the importance of timely leadership decisions that address not just business needs, but human realities.

 

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7, Apr 2026
Strategic delegation visits to RAKEZ reinforce its role as a platform for global business engagement

Strategic delegation visits to RAKEZ reinforce its role as a platform for global business engagement

 

Ras Al Khaimah, Apr 07: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) continues to deepen its global engagement as it welcomed over a hundred delegates from across international markets in the first quarter of the year, reflecting growing interest in Ras Al Khaimah as a destination for business expansion and collaboration.

As businesses increasingly seek resilient, well-connected markets to support their growth strategies, cross-border engagement has become a key driver of long-term partnerships. In this context, RAKEZ has emerged as an active platform for dialogue, bringing together representatives from consulates, embassies, and business organisations to explore opportunities within Ras Al Khaimah’s evolving economic landscape.

The visiting delegations, representing countries including Azerbaijan, Hong Kong, Spain, Guatemala, and Russia, were introduced to RAKEZ’s integrated ecosystem through a series of site visits across its industrial zones, gaining firsthand exposure to the emirate’s industrial infrastructure and operational capabilities.

These engagements enabled discussions around investment and collaboration opportunities across key sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, reflecting the growing alignment between global business priorities and the opportunities emerging from Ras Al Khaimah.

This momentum builds on RAKEZ’s continued efforts to strengthen international ties, having hosted a growing number of delegations in recent years, further reinforcing its role as a trusted point of connection for global stakeholders seeking access to regional and international markets.

Commenting on the visits, RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “Welcoming international delegations to Ras Al Khaimah reflects the growing confidence in the emirate’s business environment and investment potential. These engagements create meaningful dialogue and lay the foundation for long-term partnerships. At RAKEZ, we continue to provide a platform where global stakeholders can explore opportunities, connect with the right ecosystem, and move forward with clarity and confidence.”

As global business dynamics continue to evolve, RAKEZ remains committed to facilitating impactful engagement with international partners, supporting businesses in identifying opportunities, building connections, and advancing their expansion plans from Ras Al Khaimah.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
7, Apr 2026
India’s Ministry of Mines Unveils New Rules to Accelerate Critical Mineral Exploration

New Delhi, Apr 7: The Ministry of Mines has introduced the Minerals Concession Rules 2026, aimed at boosting the exploration and production of critical minerals essential for electric vehicles, high-tech electronics, and defence equipment, according to an official statement on Monday.

India’s Ministry of Mines Unveils New Rules to Accelerate Critical Mineral Exploration

Pic Credit: Pexel

Effective from March 30, 2026, the new rules provide a clear framework for:

  • Incorporating contiguous areas into existing mining leases,
  • Granting composite licences for deep-seated minerals, and
  • Including associated minerals in the mining leases of both major and minor minerals.

The updated framework is expected to streamline the exploration process, attract investment, and strengthen domestic supply chains for strategic minerals. Officials noted that this initiative will reduce India’s dependence on imports and support emerging sectors such as electric mobility and advanced electronics.

Industry experts believe the rules could accelerate critical mineral production, enhance India’s global competitiveness in the mining sector, and contribute significantly to the country’s industrial and technological growth.

7, Apr 2026
India’s Auto Market Surges to Record High in FY26 with 13.3% Growth Fueled by GST 2.0

India’s automobile market recorded a historic year in FY26, with total vehicle retail sales reaching an all-time high of 2,96,71,064 units, marking a 13.3% increase compared to 2,61,87,255 units in FY25, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). Industry experts say the rollout of GST 2.0 played a key role in driving consumer confidence and demand, particularly during the latter half of the fiscal year.

India’s Auto Market Surges to Record High in FY26 with 13.3% Growth Fueled by GST 2.0

Pic Credit: Pexel

Passenger and Two-Wheeler Sales Lead Growth

Passenger vehicle sales grew 13%, reaching 47,05,056 units, up from 41,63,927 units in FY25. Two-wheelers, which continue to dominate the market, also saw robust growth, with retail sales rising 13.4% to 2,14,20,386 units. Three-wheelers and commercial vehicles recorded steady growth as well, with sales increasing 11.68% and 11.74%, respectively.

A Landmark Year for the Auto Industry

FADA President C S Vigneshwar described FY26 as a “landmark year” for the automotive sector, noting that five out of six vehicle categories achieved record annual sales. He emphasized that strong policy support, market stability, and renewed consumer confidence contributed to this growth, even as the pace of sales varied across different segments.

Looking Ahead

With the positive momentum, industry insiders are optimistic about the future. Continued policy clarity, enhanced financing options, and consumer incentives are expected to sustain demand, helping India maintain its growth trajectory in the auto sector.

The record FY26 figures underscore the resilience of the Indian automotive market and highlight the growing appetite for both personal and commercial vehicles across the country.

7, Apr 2026
Curefit Healthcare Pvt Ltd Appoints Four Independent Directors to Strengthen Board Governance

Mumbai, Apr 7: Fitness and wellness platform Curefit Healthcare Pvt Ltd has appointed four independent directors, Kalpana Morparia, Arun M. Kumar, Dr. Indu Bhushan and Pragya Misra as independent directors on its board.

Kalpana Morparia, former Chairman of JPMorgan South and Southeast Asia, is a veteran in banking and financial services. She has held leadership roles at ICICI Bank and currently serves on the boards of several global organisations, bringing strong governance and financial oversight capabilities. In January 2024, she was conferred the Padma Shri award in the category of Trade & Industry.

Arun M. Kumar brings extensive global leadership experience spanning consulting, venture capital and public service. He is currently Managing Partner at Celesta Capital. Previously, he served as Chairman and CEO of KPMG India and as a member of KPMG’s global board of directors. He held a senior role in former US President Barack Obama’s administration as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets, where he led international trade and investment efforts.

Dr. Indu Bhushan, the founding CEO of Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and a former IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, brings deep expertise in healthcare policy and public systems. With over three decades of experience across the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and the Government of India, he has played a key role in shaping large-scale health programmes in the country.

Pragya Misra, Head of Strategy & Global Affairs, India at OpenAI, leads the company’s strategic agenda in one of the world’s most critical AI markets. Her role spans product, policy, partnerships, and go-to-market, driving a unified OpenAI strategy. As OpenAI’s first India hire, she has been instrumental in building and scaling its presence. Previously, she held leadership roles at Truecaller and WhatsApp.

Mukesh Bansal, chairman and founder, Curefit Healthcare Pvt Ltd, said.

“As organisations grow in scale and complexity, strong governance and clarity of thought become increasingly important. We have been thoughtful about on-boarding independent voices who bring rigour, accountability and a wider institutional perspective to the board. Kalpana, Arun, Indu and Pragya each bring that depth, and I look forward to their contributions in helping us build a more resilient and responsible organisation,”

“As we aim to build Curefit for the long term, bringing in diverse, global perspectives to our board is a natural step in our journey. All four leaders bring a unique depth of experience across global business, public systems and technology along with a strong track record of building enduring institutions. Their guidance will be invaluable to us,” Naresh Krishnaswamy, the company’s CEO said.

7, Apr 2026
Sei Whales Take Their Spring Break in Waters Off New York and New Jersey

New York  April  07: A new study led by scientists from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) reveals that endangered sei whales regularly use the New York Bight as a key spring habitat, underscoring the importance of this heavily trafficked region for one of the world’s fastest and most elusive baleen whales.

Using acoustic monitoring data collected with WHOI-developed technology from 2017 to 2020, researchers documented strong seasonal and daily patterns in sei whale presence and vocal activity. The findings suggest that the waters off New York and New Jersey may serve as an important migratory corridor—and potentially a feeding area—during early spring.

The study, Seasonal and Diel Acoustic Activity of Sei Whales (Balaenoptera borealis) in the New York Bight, was conducted by researchers from WCS’s New York Bight Program and  WHOI.

“This is the first detailed analysis of daily and seasonal acoustic patterns for sei whales in the New York Bight,” explained Maria Papadopoulos, lead author of the study with WCS and graduate researcher at Columbia University. “We found that 95 percent of sei whale vocalizations were detected between March and May, with activity peaking in the late spring, when temperatures are between 41 and 48 degrees Fahrenheit. This highlights a narrow environmental window when the whales are most likely to be present, potentially linked to prey availability.”

Sei whales are listed as Endangered under U.S. and international laws, yet they remain one of the least-studied large whales in the North Atlantic. Adult sei whales, with a dark gray to black body, a white colored belly, and irregular light gray to white markings, are on average 47 feet long, weighing 44,000 pounds (a similar weight to four African elephants). They are the third largest whale species after blue and fin whales. They produce loud, low-frequency sounds that go down in pitch and are generally produced in doublets (pairs) or triplets.

The study found that sei whales vocalize more frequently during daylight hours, a pattern consistent with reduced calling at night when whales are thought to be feeding. This daily rhythm allows us a better understanding of times when sei whales may be more sensitive to disruption by human activities. For example, elevated noise levels during the daytime when sei whales are more vocal may make vital communication between sei whales challenging.

“These results suggest that sei whales may not just transit through the New York Bight but may also use these waters more seasonally in certain years,” said Papadopoulos. “Continuing to document trends in sei whale presence will help inform policies and practices to improve protections for this endangered species.”

The New York Bight encompasses the busiest port complex in the United States. By establishing a clear baseline for when sei whales are present and how they may use the area, the study provides critical information for managing human activities in ways that reduce risks to whales.

The authors note that sei whales are already being detected in near-real time by the same acoustic systems (deployed and managed by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution) used to protect critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.

“Acoustic monitoring provides us with an amazing opportunity 24/7/365 to learn about whales and dolphins in the waters off New York and New Jersey,” said Dr. Howard Rosenbaum, co-author and Executive Director of the WCS New York Bight Program. “That capability is especially important for species like sei whales that are rarely seen but clearly present. Understanding when and where whales occur is essential for effective conservation. This study gives us that knowledge about sei whales—and an opportunity to act on it.”

WCS has conducted research in the New York Bight for more than a decade, informing policy recommendations to protect sei whales and several other species of whales, including fin, North Atlantic right, humpback, and minke.

7, Apr 2026
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Redefines Wellness Travel with Personalised Archetype-Led Journeys at ELE|NA Elements of Nature

Personalised Wellness Archetypes, Elemental Healing, and Conscious Luxury at ELE|NA Elements of Nature

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO Redefines Wellness Travel with Personalised Archetype-Led Journeys at ELE|NA Elements of Nature

 

 

Apr 07: Wellness travel today is no longer about one-size-fits-all spa rituals. It is about intention, individuality, and experiences that respond intuitively to who you are. At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, this philosophy comes to life through a deeply personalised approach to well-being, one that recognises that every guest’s journey is distinct.

At the heart of this evolution lies ELE|NA Elements of Nature, where bespoke experiences are thoughtfully crafted around defined wellness archetypes. Rather than offering standardised treatments, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO exemplifies its dedication to personalised wellbeing by tailoring each journey to individual needs, whether guests seek restoration, vitality, balance, or transformation.

Wellbeing at ELE | NA Elements of Nature extends far beyond the spa. Guests are invited to explore a range of restorative healing modalities including sound healing sessions using a combination of handpans and Tibetan bowls, energy healing therapies, breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement practices designed to restore balance between body and mind.

Education is also a central part of the experience. Through engaging wellness and sustainability workshops, guests gain practical knowledge they can integrate into everyday life, from conscious living practices to holistic self-care rituals. These sessions empower individuals to deepen their understanding of wellbeing while reconnecting with simple, meaningful habits that support long-term health.

In collaboration with the resort’s culinary team, a dedicated wellness menu blends Ayurvedic wisdom with expert culinary craftsmanship. Emphasising nourishment, sustainability, and conscious sourcing, each dish is thoughtfully designed to support the guest’s healing journey, ensuring that restoration continues well beyond the treatment room.

Guests experience these offerings within serene overwater treatment rooms where skilled therapists deliver deeply personalised care using carefully selected products aligned with holistic wellbeing principles.

“Today’s discerning traveller seeks more than relaxation; they seek alignment,” said Mei P. Pun, General Manager of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. “At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, wellness is deeply personal. Through ELE|NA Elements of Nature’s archetype-led journeys, elemental therapies, and mindful culinary collaborations, we offer a destination where luxury and well-being exist in complete harmony—allowing our guests to reconnect with themselves in a truly meaningful way.”

Complementing this immersive philosophy is the resort’s signature INDULGENCE™ Plan an all-encompassing holiday plan, which seamlessly integrates wellness experiences, curated dining, and island discoveries into one effortless journey. Designed to remove logistical distractions, it allows guests to fully surrender to restoration where every detail is considered and every moment intentional.

In this serene enclave of the Maldives, wellness is not a programme, it is a way of being. OZEN LIFE MAADHOO invites travellers to experience a sanctuary where personalised care, elemental balance, and refined island luxury redefine what it means to truly travel for well-being.

7, Apr 2026
Seeti 2.0 puts Meghalaya on the global culinary map through deep cultural immersion

Seeti 2.0 puts Meghalaya on the global culinary map through deep cultural immersion

 

Shillong, April 6, 2026: Seeti 2.0, a never-before-seen five-day culinary immersion initiative, brought together around 50 chefs, creators, and storytellers for an experience designed to go beyond conventional food tourism in Meghalaya. Unlike typical food festivals, Seeti 2.0 focused on deep cultural engagement, with participants experiencing Meghalaya through its communities, landscapes and traditions.

Seeti Movement is a platform for people in the food industry to come together at different locations and experience not only the space, but also celebrate the generosity of feeders. The guests give back to each other or to the environment. Rooted in a pillar of generosity, it seeks to reawaken the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava, fostering a culture of respect, openness, and shared value. Rather than fleeting engagement, it builds lasting ideas, collaborations, and intellectual capital beyond the event itself.

“This year, Seeti 2.0 Meghalaya Experience decided to do things differently. Keeping our mission in mind, we explored how we could work in the North East and introduce it to our storytellers, so they can carry the food, craft, and culture of Meghalaya forward. We wanted to understand what we could give to Meghalaya, and what we could introduce to the rest of the world as well. This year, Seeti 2.0 Tables in the Clouds not only focused on the food of India and the food industry, but also directly invited local chefs to curate experiences, and to share and participate in our panel discussions,” said Priyadarshini Raje Scindia, Co-Founder of the Seeti Movement.

The Seeti 2.0 Meghalaya experience was preceded by nearly a year of on-ground research and curation, with the team mapping Meghalaya’s landscapes, communities and food systems to identify locations and narratives that best represent the state’s diversity. This translated into carefully designed experiences set in unique and context-rich environments, from curated meals following the visit to the sacred forest, to immersive sessions at tea estates overlooking Umiam Lake, allowing participants to engage with the cultural and ecological significance of each setting rather than viewing them as standalone destinations. The programme was also structured around the cultural identities of Meghalaya’s Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities.

“Designed as a cultural platform rather than a conventional food event, Seeti focused on creating deeper connections between our Storytellers and local contexts. In many food-led events, the deeper conversation gets lost if it is only about food. We wanted each experience to reflect something iconically rooted in the place. A key aspect of the initiative was its emphasis on participation over observation, allowing visitors to experience food within its cultural and social context. People begin to feel a sense of ownership when they experience something meaningful, whether it is an experience at the sacred forest, a tea estate or a community meal,” said Sid Mewara, Co-Founder of the Seeti Movement.

Mewara also noted, “Many visitors arrived with a limited understanding of regional cuisines. There is a perception that it is only very spicy or non-vegetarian food, but once people experience it, they realize the depth and diversity, from vegetarian dishes to subtle flavours that can be cherished among the locals at breathtaking venues”.

The Seeti 2.0 Meghalaya programme also highlighted how local food systems are inherently sustainable. Organizers pointed to practices such as local sourcing, low carbon consumption, use of whole ingredients and community-based food systems as examples of long-standing ecological balance.

“The initiative also reinforced the importance of responsible and respectful tourism, encouraging visitors to engage with heritage spaces such as sacred forests and community-owned ecosystems. The initiative also highlighted how food can serve as an entry point into larger conversations around identity, sustainability and responsible tourism. The idea was to balance heritage and modernity, with visits to contemporary dining spaces alongside traditional settings, offering a holistic perspective on the evolving Northeastern urban culture,” said Priyadarshini.

While the on-ground programme involved around 50 participants, organizers said its impact is designed to scale through Live and post-event storytelling through its carefully selected guests, which included world-renowned chefs, hoteliers, investors, traditional media, new age content creators, and marketing professionals. Seeti 2.0 aimed to enable its guests to become its storytellers, to accelerate inbound tourism for the State.

Seeti 2.0 Meghalaya Experience was also designed to merge with Meghalaya Government’s existing food festival, Culinary Cascades, where Seeti 2.0 storytellers were again able to directly meet farm-to-table vendors and chefs, as well as hold a panel on the future of Meghalaya’s food, craft, and journey.

The founders of Seeti 2.0 also highlighted the role of Meghalaya Government’s Support in enabling the initiative, noting that proactive coordination by state agencies helped facilitate access and logistics across locations. When a state comes forward and supports an initiative like this, it allows us to build something much larger than an event. It creates an ecosystem that organically surpasses the event.

Following the success of Seeti 2.0 Meghalaya edition, the experience has emerged as a scalable model for cultural tourism in India, with organizers positioning the platform as a format that can be adapted across states by combining food, community engagement and storytelling at offbeat locations. The event also includes a long-form film documenting the experience, with participants serving as storytellers, carrying narratives to wider audiences.