12, Feb 2026
Housing Sales in 15 Tier-2 Cities Dip 10 Percent in 2025; Launches Decline 6 percent : PropEquity
Feb 12: Housing sales across the top 15 tier-2 cities declined 10% year-on-year (YoY) in 2025 to 1,56,181 units, even as the overall sales value remained flat at ₹1.48 lakh crore, according to NSE-listed real estate data analytics firm PropEquity.
The moderation in volumes reflects rising housing prices and increasing premiumisation across tier-2 markets. Except for Mohali and Lucknow, which recorded growth of 34% and 6% YoY respectively, the remaining 13 cities witnessed declines of up to 38%, with Visakhapatnam registering the steepest fall.
A clear shift toward high-ticket housing was observed during the year. Sales of homes priced under ₹1 crore declined 15% YoY in 2025, with their share dropping to 72% from 77% in 2024. In contrast, homes priced above ₹1 crore saw a 9% increase in sales, with their share rising to 28% from 23% a year earlier.
In absolute terms, the four Gujarat cities—Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara and Surat—accounted for 63% of total sales across the top 15 tier-2 cities. Ahmedabad alone contributed 33% of total sales, with 51,148 units sold in 2025. Beginning 2026, Ahmedabad can be regarded as a tier-1 city, having surpassed several established tier-1 markets in both housing launches and absorption, reflecting its scale of development and depth of demand.
City-wise, Ahmedabad saw sales decline 8% to 51,148 units in 2025 from 55,315 units in 2024. Surat fell 15% to 19,835 units, while Vadodara dropped 19% to 13,798 units. Gandhinagar witnessed a marginal 1% decline to 13,710 units. Nashik recorded a 10% drop to 11,188 units, Jaipur declined 5% to 9,758 units, and Nagpur fell 18% to 6,260 units. Bhubaneshwar registered a 25% decline to 4,885 units, while Visakhapatnam saw the sharpest fall of 38% to 2,406 units. Kochi declined 17% to 2,214 units, Coimbatore fell 4% to 3,702 units, and Bhopal dropped 5% to 3,599 units. Goa remained largely stable at 3,507 units.
Commenting on the findings, Samir Jasuja, Founder & CEO of PropEquity, said,
“The slowdown in housing sales over the past two years is largely due to a shrinking supply of homes priced below ₹1 crore—a segment that has traditionally driven demand in tier-2 cities. Rising land and construction costs, along with changing buyer aspirations, are pushing new launches into higher price brackets. As a result, tier-2 markets are increasingly mirroring tier-1 cities, where volumes are declining even as prices continue to rise.”
He added, “Government focus on tier-2 cities—through enhanced urban development, improved connectivity, and the creation of industrial corridors and manufacturing hubs—has driven sustained price appreciation. This has pushed even average housing units in many tier-2 markets beyond the ₹1 crore mark, leading to slower absorption. Going forward, this trend could be a cause for concern, as affordability pressures begin to impact not just premium segments but also affordable and mid-income housing in these cities.”
New Supply Declines 6% in 2025
New supply across the top 15 tier-2 cities declined 6% YoY to 1,36,243 units in 2025, down from 1,45,139 units in 2024. The contraction was visible across price segments, with supply of homes priced under ₹1 crore declining 5%, and those above ₹1 crore falling 8%.
Ahmedabad recorded a 3% rise in launches to 48,646 units, while Jaipur saw a 2% increase to 8,803 units. Mohali posted a sharp 108% jump to 8,606 units, and Bhopal registered a 66% rise to 3,312 units.
However, most other cities saw declines. Surat and Gandhinagar both fell 13% to 17,256 units and 12,829 units, respectively, while Vadodara declined 25% to 8,367 units. Nashik dropped 4% to 8,222 units and Nagpur fell 10% to 5,485 units. Lucknow witnessed a 43% decline to 2,884 units, Bhubaneshwar recorded the steepest fall of 57% to 2,840 units, and Visakhapatnam declined 53% to 1,155 units. Goa saw a marginal 2% dip to 2,749 units, Kochi fell 5% to 1,838 units, and Coimbatore declined 12% to 3,251 units.
The four Gujarat cities together accounted for 64% of total launches in 2025.
PropEquity noted that while tier-2 cities continue to benefit from infrastructure development and industrial expansion, moderation in both sales and supply signals a recalibration phase, with affordability and premiumisation emerging as key themes shaping demand dynamics in 2026.
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- By Neel Achary
11, Feb 2026
Smart Publishing: Key Tools Driving the Future of Academic Journals
By:- Sameer Kanodia, Managing Director and CEO, Lumina Datamatics, and Vice Chairman and CEO, TNQTech
As academic publishing embraces digital transformation, the industry is navigating rapid change. Rising manuscript volumes, expanding open-access mandates, and the need for multi-format content delivery are reshaping how journals operate. Publishers must balance speed with accuracy, ensuring research integrity while meeting global compliance standards. In this context, intelligent content tools have become indispensable. They streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and support editors in maintaining quality at scale. By leveraging these technologies, journals can reduce turnaround times, improve discoverability, and enhance their global impact in an increasingly competitive publishing landscape.
Lumina Datamatics shares important tools that can redefine journal publishing in the digital era. Here are some of the most impactful content tools transforming academic journals today:
1. AI-Powered Manuscript Screening
Early-stage screening tools powered by artificial intelligence can evaluate submissions against journal guidelines, formatting requirements, and ethical standards. This helps reduce editorial workload and ensures only compliant manuscripts proceed to peer review
2. Plagiarism Detection Systems
Advanced plagiarism checkers safeguard academic integrity by scanning submissions against vast databases of published content, flagging overlaps, and preventing duplicate or unethical publication.
3. Automated Reference Checking
Reference validation tools automatically cross-check citations against indexing databases like CrossRef, PubMed, or Scopus—ensuring accuracy, consistency, and linking integrity.
4. XML-First Publishing Platforms
XML-driven platforms support structured content workflows, enabling publishers to generate multiple formats (PDF, HTML, ePub) from a single source. They also align with indexing and archiving requirements.
5. Semantic Enrichment Engine
These tools enhance discoverability by tagging articles with subject-specific metadata, keywords, and taxonomies making scholarly work easier to find across search engines and academic databases.
6. Peer Review & Workflow Management Systems
Digital peer review systems track submissions, assign reviewers, manage timelines, and facilitate transparent editorial decision-making all while reducing delays in the review cycle.
With academic publishing becoming increasingly complex, intelligent content tools have emerged as more than just add-ons—they are strategic enablers. By addressing challenges of editorial accuracy, compliance, discoverability, and global dissemination, these tools empower publishers to streamline journal operations and build future-ready publishing ecosystems.
11, Feb 2026
This Valentine’s, Gift Comfort & Luxury with D’Decor Bedding
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, thoughtful gifting finds expression in refined comfort and timeless design. This season, Bedding by D’Decor lets luxury become the language of love. From quilted softness and satin opulence to high-thread-count refinement and heirloom-worthy elegance, these thoughtfully curated collections celebrate warmth and togetherness. Whether you are gifting your partner, newlyweds, or someone who cherishes beautiful living, these bedding ensembles make for unforgettable Valentine’s Day presents.
Cuddle
True to its name, Cuddle is designed to hold you close. This quilted bed cover set comes in a soothing palette of soft pastels, rich midtones, and deep romantic hues – perfect for setting a cosy Valentine’s mood.
With matching quilted pillows finished with engineered panel detailing, and a harmonious mix of organic, geometric, and abstract patterns, Cuddle echoes the calm of nature. Available in all-season and winter options, along with matching bedsheets in a wide array of colours, this collection promises warmth, softness, and effortless style – ideal for couples who look for comfort and style.
Luxor
Turn Valentine’s Day into a grand affair with Luxor, a super-premium bedding ensemble crafted for those who appreciate understated opulence. Featuring an 800 thread count cotton sateen bedsheet set, paired with a monotone embroidered quilted bed cover, Luxor brings hotel-like luxury home.
The plain bedsheet, elevated with exclusive panel embroidery, complements the sophisticated bed cover beautifully – creating a serene, indulgent bedroom escape. A perfect gift for partners who believe luxury lies in the details.
Majestique
Designed for both everyday living and thoughtful gifting, Majestique is where comfort meets classic charm. These premium jacquard bedding sets include a quilt, two sham covers, and two cushion covers—making them a complete and elegant ensemble. Minimalistic florals and abstract motifs, paired with a subtle sheen, give Majestique a rich yet versatile appeal.
Nazraana
If your Valentine’s gift needs to feel truly special, Nazraana delivers grandeur with grace. Crafted from rich velvet and adorned with embroidered abstract art patterns, this collection is a stunning fusion of traditional and modern luxury.
Presented in an exclusive premium gift box, Nazraana includes a bedcover, two pillow covers, and two euro shams – making it a complete statement ensemble. Perfect for milestone moments, celebrations, or gifting someone who appreciates craftsmanship and legacy, Nazraana redefines romance with style.
With D’Decor’s bedding collections, let love unfold in layers of softness, elegance, and timeless design to have a lasting experience.
11, Feb 2026
Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026 Concludes, Celebrating the Region’s Rich Cultural Legacy
Kolkata / Murshidabad, Feb 11: The Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026, held from 6–8 February, concluded on a high note, leaving visitors with memories of the city’s history, architecture and vibrant culture. The festival welcomed heritage enthusiasts, scholars, artists and culture lovers to experience one of Bengal’s most historically significant city.
Visitors were accommodated at heritage properties like the House of Sheherwali and Bari Kothi, immersing them in Murshidabad’s living legacy. The festivities began with a traditional Sheherwali lunch and a film screening on Rani Bhawani, followed by a boat ride to Char Bangla, the terracotta temple built by Rani Bhawani and a breathtaking sunset over the Ganges, accompanied by Ganga Aarti. Visitors also explored Tantipara, witnessing skilled artisans at work on the centuries-old Baluchari weaving tradition.
Highlights included a thrilling traditional boat race, tours of Hazarduari Palace Museum, Nasipur Rajbari, and Katgola Palace and a vibrant cultural evening featuring Baul singers, Raibenshe dancers, Kathak performances and folk artists. The festival concluded with a film screening on The Battle of Plassey and a farewell lunch, leaving guests with cherished memories of Murshidabad’s heritage and hospitality.
“The Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026 was a remarkable success, bringing together heritage enthusiasts, artists and culture lovers from across the region. Over three days, visitors experienced the city’s rich history, architectural marvels, vibrant traditions and timeless legacy. The festival also highlighted the incredible skill of local artisans” said Pradip Chopra, President of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society.
“Marking 16 years since MHDS was founded in 2010, the Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026 celebrated the city’s living history, local crafts and traditions, while helping revive pride and preserve heritage,” said Sandip Nowlakha, Founding Member of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society.
The Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2026 successfully showcased the city’s timeless architecture, crafts, music, cuisine and traditions, reaffirming its status as a vibrant center of living heritage.
11, Feb 2026
Flipkart Bengaluru HQ Earns Platinum LEED Certification
Flipkart Group’s Bengaluru Headquarters Achieves Prestigious Platinum LEED Certification for Operations and Maintenance
Bengaluru, Feb 11: Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, has earned the Platinum certification under the LEED Operations and Maintenance: Interior (O+M) rating system for its headquarters at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. Awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), this globally recognized certification represents the highest level of LEED recognition for sustainable building operations.
The certification validates Flipkart’s rigorous, data-driven approach to energy efficiency, water stewardship, waste management, and indoor environmental quality, reflecting measurable reductions in emissions, energy consumption, and waste through targeted operational interventions. Notably, Myntra’s headquarters has also earned Platinum certification from the CII-IGBC, demonstrating the Group’s unified commitment to operational sustainability.
Nishant Gupta, Head of Sustainability, Flipkart Group, commented:
“Sustainability is reflected in the choices we make every day in how we operate, use energy, manage water, and handle waste. LEED Platinum certification for our headquarters validates the operational changes we have implemented to reduce our environmental footprint while creating a healthier, more efficient workplace. We see this achievement as both a responsibility and an opportunity to replicate proven best practices across Flipkart’s other offices and facilities.”
Peter Templeton, President and CEO, USGBC, added:
“LEED is a transformative tool that ensures buildings achieve high performance, improve human health, and protect the environment. By prioritizing sustainability, Flipkart is leading its industry and helping USGBC move toward our goal of green buildings for everyone within this generation.”
Key Operational Interventions & Impact
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Tech-Led Energy Efficiency: IoT-enabled air-conditioning systems dynamically adjust cooling based on occupancy, resulting in electricity savings of over 115,000 units in CY25 compared to CY24.
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Renewable Energy Integration: The headquarters sources green energy via the grid from a 100 MW solar power plant, supplemented by solar-powered lighting in common areas.
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Closed-Loop Water Systems: Nearly 60% of wastewater is recycled, supported by a 300 KL rainwater storage tank and low-flow fixtures.
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Zero-Waste to Landfill: Daily waste output reduced by 55%, from 900kg to 400kg, with 100% of remaining waste diverted from landfills through composting, recycling, and advanced processing.
Creating a Conscious Culture
Flipkart’s certification also recognizes initiatives to embed sustainability into employee behavior. Programs such as the ‘Trashy No More’ training module and dedicated infrastructure for EVs and cycling ensure employees actively participate in the company’s climate roadmap.
This LEED Platinum recognition reinforces Flipkart Group’s commitment to resource efficiency, low-carbon operations, and waste elimination, setting a benchmark for sustainable practices across India’s corporate ecosystem.
11, Feb 2026
Pilgrim Launches India’s First Vitamin C Serum Sunscreen SPF50
Mumbai, Feb 11: Pilgrim, a pioneer in skincare innovation, has launched its 5% Vitamin C Complex Brightening Serum Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++, designed to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers who seek high-efficacy, multi-functional products that seamlessly integrate into daily routines.
The new sunscreen combines advanced UV filters—Uvinul T 150, Uvinul A Plus, and Tinosorb S—with Pilgrim’s proprietary UVshield X™ Technology, offering broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, and Blue Light. This formulation is tailored for modern lifestyles, helping prevent tanning, sun damage, pigmentation, and premature ageing while remaining photostable, ensuring long-lasting performance without oxidising or darkening on the skin.
Beyond sun protection, the hybrid formulation is enriched with 5% Vitamin C Complex, Niacinamide, and Glutathione, delivering visible skin benefits including brighter, more even-toned, and radiant skin over time. Its lightweight, serum-like texture absorbs quickly, feels non-greasy, and leaves no white cast, making it ideal for all skin tones and suitable for daily wear alone or under makeup.
Aligned with Pilgrim’s clean and conscious beauty philosophy, the sunscreen is skin-friendly, safe for all skin types—including sensitive skin—and free from potentially disruptive ingredients.
With this launch, Pilgrim continues to merge global skincare technology with Indian consumer needs, offering innovative, everyday solutions that combine efficacy, comfort, and multi-functional benefits.
11, Feb 2026
Atmosphere Core Secures A Triple Win At Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025
Maldives, Feb 11: Atmosphere Core closes 2025 on a high note, earning three major honours at the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025 for RAAYA by Atmosphere, Atmosphere Kanifushi, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi. The recognition underscores the group’s ability to deliver clearly differentiated resort experiences for diverse audiences, while maintaining a consistent focus on quality, comfort, and guest satisfaction across its portfolio.
At the awards, RAAYA by Atmosphere was named Best New Luxury Resort of the Year – Maldives, while Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives received the title of Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi was recognised as Most Stylish Resort – Maldives. These awards are based on Layalina’s independent editorial evaluation and key quality benchmarks, celebrating excellence across luxury, all-inclusive hospitality, and lifestyle-driven design. Layalina is a leading Arab lifestyle publication under 7awi Media Group, with strong influence across the GCC and region. Together, these wins highlight Atmosphere Core’s understanding of modern travel expectations, offering experiences that are thoughtful, well-crafted, and effortless to enjoy, whether guests seek tranquillity, variety, or social energy.
Each of the awarded resorts contributes a distinct personality to the portfolio. RAAYA by Atmosphere, located in the Raa Atoll, is characterised by its tranquil setting and castaway-artist concept, inviting guests to slow down, immerse themselves in nature, adventure, and reconnect at their own pace. Atmosphere Kanifushi continues to stand out for its scale and consistency, delivering a generous all-inclusive experience through the Kanifushi Plan™, its expansive villas, and a long, natural island that appeals equally to families and couples. In contrast, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi offers a more energetic island escape, with contemporary design and a vibrant social atmosphere that resonates with travellers who value shared spaces, movement, and modern styling. Together, these accolades reflect a thoughtfully curated portfolio designed to cater to a wide range of travel moods and preferences with equal care and attention.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer of Atmosphere Core, said:
“We are truly honoured to receive the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025, recognising RAAYA by Atmosphere as Best New Luxury Resort of the Year, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives as Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi as Most Stylish Resort. This recognition reflects our thoughtfully curated experiences, rooted in genuine care and a strong sense of product and space. These awards are a testament to the passion and commitment of our teams, as well as the continued trust of our guests. They inspire us to consistently deliver meaningful and distinctive hospitality experiences across the Maldives.”
At the heart of these achievements is Atmosphere Core’s philosophy of the Joy of Giving, where hospitality is shaped by care, generosity, and attention to detail. This ethos shapes destinations that feel deeply connected to their surroundings and inspires bespoke experiences that anticipate guests needs. Each stay is welcoming, effortless, and personal, creating meaningful moments that uplift, restore, and leave a lasting impression beyond the journey.
11, Feb 2026
Dabur Gulabari’s #SayItWithARose Campaign Garners 100M+ Views, Distributes 2.5 Lakh Scented Memory Cards on Rose Day
Kolkata, Feb 11: This Valentine’s season, Dabur Gulabari transformed Rose Day into a nationwide celebration of expression with its integrated #SayItWithARose campaign, seamlessly blending culture, creators and commerce at scale.
Rooted in the timeless symbolism of roses, the campaign encouraged consumers to express heartfelt emotions through a simple yet powerful gesture — and preserve those moments through a specially designed scented memory card, made available exclusively via quick commerce platform Blinkit.
Turning Roses into Keepsakes – On Rose Day, consumers ordering roses on Blinkit received a Gulabari-inspired scented memory card designed to capture milestones — from first photos and first dates to proposals and forever memories. The card enabled users to attach personal photographs, pen notes, and digitize memories through QR integration, bridging nostalgia with modern sharing culture.
The initiative saw strong nationwide participation, with over 2.5 lakh scented cards distributed on Rose Day alone — reinforcing Gulabari’s enduring association with roses and emotional expression.
To amplify the campaign, Dabur Gulabari activated 100+ influencers across lifestyle, couple, youth and comedy genres, driving authentic storytelling around the scented card experience. Creators ordered the card and shared relatable content celebrating modern love and meaningful gestures.
The campaign delivered:
· 100+ million views across platforms
· Engagement rates exceeding 4% on influencer content
· Thousands of Instagram stories within 24 hours of launch
Adding a cultural twist, leading creators flipped the traditional Valentine’s narrative by showcasing women giving “princess treatment” to men — reflecting evolving relationship dynamics and resonating strongly with Gen-Z audiences who value mutual effort and equality.
Commenting on the campaign, Virat Khanna, Head of Marketing – Skin Care, Dabur India Limited, said:
“Gulabari has always been rooted in the purity, gentle care and emotion of roses. With #SayItWithARose, we wanted to celebrate that simply beautiful positioning — where care is soft, heartfelt and effortless. This campaign allowed us to bring the timeless charm of roses into a contemporary expression of love.”
Highlighting the digital narrative, Jasleen Kohli, Digital Lead – HPC, Dabur India Limited, added:
“At its core, this campaign was about creating a moment of warmth and connection online. By working closely with creators and encouraging authentic storytelling, we were able to make Rose Day feel personal, shareable and emotionally resonant across social platforms.”
The campaign was conceptualised and executed in partnership with Cloutflow. Vanshika Batra, Co-Founder – Cloutflow Influencer Marketing Platform, said:
“Our objective was to drive authenticity at scale. With 100+ creators interpreting #SayItWithARose in their own voice, the campaign felt native to feeds and culturally relevant from day one.”
Bridging Heritage and Modern Expression – By combining the emotional equity of roses with the immediacy of social storytelling and creator ecosystems, Dabur Gulabari successfully created a full-funnel Valentine’s moment — from transaction to memory-making.
With 100 million+ views, strong engagement, and large-scale physical distribution, #SayItWithARose demonstrates how a legacy brand can translate its core values of purity and gentle care into meaningful, measurable cultural impact in the digital age.
10, Feb 2026
Apex Hospitals Launches Free Gynecology Checkups for Women This Valentine’s
Apex Group of Hospitals Offers Free Gynecology & Obstetrics Consultation This Valentine’s — Prioritizing Women’s Health Across Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 10: Apex Group of Hospitals, a leading healthcare provider in Mumbai, is proud to announce a special Free Gynecology & Obstetrics Consultation from 15th February to 15th March 2026. With over 350 beds and modern facilities across Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, the hospital group is celebrating Valentine’s Day by encouraging women and their loved ones to place health at the heart of every relationship.
Women’s health remains a critical concern in India, with conditions such as menstrual disorders, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), cervical infections, fibroids, and reproductive health issues often going undiagnosed due to lack of awareness or delayed medical attention. Regular consultations with a qualified gynecologist can aid early detection of conditions like cervical cancer, hormonal imbalances, and reproductive complications, leading to better long-term health outcomes.
Dr. Tanvi Shah, Assistant Director, Apex Group of Hospitals, said,
“At Apex Group of Hospitals, we strongly believe that preventive care is essential. Regular gynecological consultations empower women with a better understanding of their bodies, reproductive health, and overall well-being. Early detection and timely treatment can truly transform lives and help women build stronger, healthier futures.”
This Valentine’s initiative aims to remove barriers to women’s healthcare by offering complimentary expert consultations for a limited period. Appointments are available by prior reservation only, and slots are limited. Healthcare experts recommend that adult women undergo a gynecological examination at least once a year, or more frequently if symptoms such as irregular periods, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or reproductive concerns arise.
10, Feb 2026
BJP MP Manoj Tiwari Inspires Students at GAV International School’s Grand Annual Function in Gurugram
Gurugram, Feb 10: GAV International School, Gurugram, hosted its grand Annual Function with BJP Member of Parliament Shri Manoj Tiwari gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. The event, organized around the theme “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”, celebrated universal harmony, well-being, and collective progress.
The function was further honoured by the presence of Retired IAS Officer Shri K.K. Khandelwal as Special Guest, who appreciated the school’s commitment to holistic education through culture, values, and creativity.
Students showcased a series of vibrant performances reflecting patriotism, social unity, cultural heritage, and moral values, leaving the audience impressed with their confidence, talent, and stage presence.
Addressing the gathering, MP Manoj Tiwari emphasized that children are the nation’s future and commended the school for providing a platform to nurture leadership and creativity among students.
Shri K.K. Khandelwal highlighted that true education extends beyond textbooks, and cultural activities play a critical role in shaping well-rounded individuals.
Mr. Pradeep Kaushik, Chairman of GAV International School, stated, “Our mission is to empower students by giving them opportunities to perform, build confidence, and realize their potential.”
Mrs. Manisha Kaushik, Managing Director, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to academic excellence, values, culture, and social responsibility.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, drawing thunderous applause for the students’ remarkable performances.
