Category Archives: News

HOP Events, helmed by Kalpesh Kinariwala, bridges Indian talent and global prestige at the Shows of India 2026 Conclave

New Delhi, May 5: HOP Events, led by Founder and Chairman Kalpesh Kinariwala, marked its strategic entry into the Indian market as the anchor sponsor of the Shows of India 2026 Conclave, reinforcing its vision to connect Indian talent with global platforms.

Held at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, the sixth edition of the conclave concluded on May 2, bringing together leading industry professionals, creators, and stakeholders shaping India’s live entertainment ecosystem.

Through its participation, HOP Events aims to bridge the gap between iconic Indian and South Asian artists and international venues, offering them access to global audiences and premium productions. Beyond its anchor sponsorship, the company actively engaged in key discussions and networking forums, with Kalpesh Kinariwala also taking the stage as a speaker.

The initiative reflects HOP Events’ long-term strategy to identify, support, and elevate Indian talent across international markets, particularly in regions with a strong South Asian diaspora. By leveraging its expertise in large-scale experiential events and global entertainment platforms, the company seeks to create new opportunities for artists, managers, and creative professionals.

Highlighting the growing global appeal of Indian artists, Kinariwala emphasised the untapped potential for their presence on international stages, particularly in markets like the UAE and the wider GCC.

With a track record of delivering high-profile live experiences, HOP Events is positioning itself as a key enabler in taking Indian cultural talent to global audiences. The company’s expansion plans include scaling across the GCC and other global diaspora hubs, strengthening its role as a bridge between Indian artistry and world-class entertainment platforms.

 

President Murmu Pays Homage to Former President Giani Zail Singh on Birth Anniversary

New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday paid floral tributes to former President of India Giani Zail Singh at Rashtrapati Bhavan on the occasion of his birth anniversary, honouring his contribution to the nation and his legacy in public life.

Giani Zail Singh, who served as the seventh President of India from 1982 to 1987, is remembered as a prominent statesman who played a significant role in India’s political landscape. Born on May 5, 1916, in Sandhwan village of Faridkot district in Punjab, he dedicated several decades of his life to public service.

During his long political career, he held several important positions and was widely respected for his commitment to the welfare of the people and his leadership at both the state and national levels.

The tribute ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan reflected respect for his enduring contributions to the nation and his role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions.

Life Insurance Demand Affected by New Tax Regime Changes, Says Deepak Parekh

Mumbai, May 5 (BNP): Renowned industry veteran Deepak Parekh has highlighted that recent changes under the new tax regime, particularly the reduction of tax benefits, are beginning to impact consumer interest in life insurance products.

According to Parekh, the earlier tax incentives played a significant role in encouraging individuals to invest in life insurance policies. With these benefits now scaled down or removed under the revised structure, the sector is witnessing a noticeable shift in buying behaviour.

He noted that while life insurance continues to remain an essential financial protection tool, the demand dynamics are evolving as policyholders reassess long-term savings and tax efficiency.

Parekh further emphasized the need for greater awareness and financial education to ensure that individuals continue to prioritize insurance coverage despite changes in tax policy.

The life insurance industry, he added, may need to adapt its product offerings and communication strategies to align with the evolving regulatory and tax environment.

Delhi Capitals Partners with Bharat Taxi as Official Mobility Partner for IPL 2026

May 5 (BNP): Ride-hailing cooperative firm Bharat Taxi has announced a partnership with Delhi Capitals as the official mobility partner for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Under this collaboration, Bharat Taxi will engage fans through on-ground activations and digital campaigns throughout the tournament. The company will also provide dedicated travel support for spectators attending matches across the Delhi-NCR region.

Company leadership stated that the partnership aims to strengthen its presence in the Delhi market while enhancing fan engagement during one of India’s most followed sporting events.

The initiative is expected to improve match-day mobility solutions for cricket fans and deepen brand visibility during IPL 2026.

CM Prem Singh Tamang Highlights Yoga’s Role in Mental Health at Valedictory Ceremony

New Delhi, May 5: The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, graced the valedictory ceremony of the Yoga Teacher Training Course held at Manan Kendra. Addressing the gathering, he expressed his delight in being part of the significant occasion and extended warm greetings to all attendees.

In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the relevance of yoga in the 21st century. He noted that while technological advancements have made life more convenient, they have also contributed to a rise in mental health challenges. Emphasising the theme “Yoga for Mental Health,” he stated that yoga serves as a powerful tool to restore balance, harmony, and overall well-being.

Congratulating the trainees, he commended all participants who successfully completed the course and wished them continued success in their future endeavors. He encouraged them to carry forward the knowledge and discipline of yoga in their professional and personal lives.

The Chief Minister elaborated on the essence of yoga, stating that the term is derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuj,” meaning union — symbolising the integration of body, mind, and spirit. He also acknowledged the global recognition of yoga through the observance of the International Day of Yoga, an initiative led by thePrime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, for which he expressed his sincere gratitude.

Highlighting the scale of the achievement, he noted that 825 trained yoga teachers from various schools across Sikkim were being honored at the ceremony. He emphasised that the initiative goes beyond individual accomplishment and is ultimately aimed at enhancing the well-being of students. He urged educators to focus on empowering and guiding students effectively, thereby contributing positively to society.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister reiterated the shared responsibility of achieving 100% literacy in Sikkim by the year 2027. He called upon all stakeholders to work collectively towards establishing Sikkim as one of the leading centres of education in the country.

 

Vijay Scripts Historic Debut Victory, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Reshapes Tamil Nadu Politics

Chennai, May 5 (BNP): In a landmark political development, actor-turned-politician Vijay has secured a historic victory in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, leading his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, to a sweeping mandate.

Making his electoral debut from the Perambur constituency, Vijay won decisively and formally received his victory certificate, underscoring a strong endorsement from the electorate. His emergence signals a major shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, traditionally dominated by established players such as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

The results point to a broader transformation in voter sentiment, with the TVK’s rise reflecting growing public appetite for alternative leadership. Vijay’s victory, often described by supporters as a “Jana Nayagan” moment, highlights a people-driven mandate that could redefine the state’s political trajectory in the years ahead.

If current trends consolidate, this win may mark the beginning of a new political era in Tamil Nadu, with the TVK poised to play a central role in shaping governance and policy in the state.

UAE Fully Restores Air Traffic Operations Following Temporary Disruptions

May 5 (BNP): The United Arab Emirates has lifted all air traffic restrictions, restoring normal flight operations across its airspace after nearly 10 weeks of disruption linked to regional conflict earlier this year.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (UAE) confirmed the full resumption of normal air navigation services, ending temporary measures that had been in place since late February 2026.

Following the announcement, Dubai International Airport stated that it is steadily scaling up operations and increasing flight movements in coordination with available regional air routes. Airlines are gradually reinstating suspended schedules as capacity across neighbouring air corridors improves.

While the recovery is underway, aviation operations remain dependent on regional coordination and airspace availability. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, especially after a recent security alert issued in the region, though no operational changes have been announced.

The UAE aviation sector is now focused on a phased return to full capacity, with global carriers expected to progressively expand services through Dubai as stability in regional routing improves.

Fidelity International unveils a Miyawaki forest with 15,000 native trees to boost Gurugram’s urban ecology

Gurugram, May 5: Fidelity International today announced the creation of a high‑density Miyawaki forest with the plantation of 15,000 indigenous saplings across 11,873 square metres at the Dhankot pond area in Gurugram.

Using 100% native species planted at a density of 2 to 4 saplings per square metre, the initiative will transform the land over the next three years into a dense, self‑sustaining urban forest designed to deliver long‑term climate, biodiversity and community benefits to the city.

This forest was inaugurated on 1 May by Rohit Jetly, Head of Records Keeping Platforms and India Site Head, and Stuart Warner, Head of FIL Platforms, marking a significant Earth Day commitment to urban ecological restoration.

Designed for measurable environmental impact

The Miyawaki method involves the high‑density plantation of native tree species to accelerate forest growth and enable self‑sustaining ecosystems, even in urban settings.

Developed with Creating Awareness To Change Habits (CATCH) Foundation as the implementation partner, this plantation located in Gurugram Sector 101 features over 30 native tree species and replicates natural multi-layer vegetation to accelerate growth and ecosystem revival.

Once mature, it is expected to deliver:

• 250 to 280 tonnes of Carbon dioxide (CO₂) absorption annually
• 2 to 3°C localized cooling
• 5 to 15% higher groundwater recharge
• Improved air quality through particulate absorption
• Enhanced biodiversity including the return of birds, bees and pollinators

During its establishment and growth phase, the forest is projected to sequester a cumulative 142 to 458 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) over the next ten years, with higher annual absorption expected as the forest reaches maturity.

Commenting on the initiative, Ameet Nayak, Head of India Legal & APAC Company Secretary, and India CSR Head, Fidelity International said,

“This Miyawaki forest reflects our belief that meaningful environmental action must be rooted in local communities and designed to deliver lasting value. By restoring green cover and strengthening ecosystems, the forest will enhance environmental resilience while improving wellbeing and quality of life. At Fidelity International, our CSR approach is centred on purposeful action and strong partnerships that translate intent into tangible, on‑ground impact. Through close collaboration with civic authorities, ecological partners, and our employees, we are helping build healthier ecosystems, stronger communities, and sustainable outcomes for the years ahead. The early return of birds, bees, and butterflies at the Dhankot pond underscores the powerful impact of thoughtfully designed ecological interventions, demonstrating how native ecosystems can thrive when supported by scientific methods and sustained care.”

Bharat Sisodia, Founder-Chairperson, CATCH Foundation added,

“Creating self-sustainable forests in close alignment with the 2070 Net Zero Carbon goal, which in turn become natural habitats for biodiversity to thrive in abundance, is the objective of CATCH Foundation. Urban spaces have become concrete jungles, and we have witnessed these vital green lungs being quietly wiped out of existence. Projects like the Dhankot Pond Area Forest Plantation represent a powerful restoration of such ecosystems, addressing some of the most pressing national challenges, including air pollution—especially in the NCR—biodiversity loss, and the broader climate crisis. Our collaboration with Fidelity International reflects a shared commitment to creating resilient urban spaces that we can responsibly pass on to future generations.”

Ensuring long‑term sustainability

Fidelity International and CATCH Foundation have committed to three years of structured maintenance—including watering, mulching, organic soil care and sapling replacement—to ensure over 95% survival. A precision drip irrigation system reduces water use by 40 to 60%, while geo‑tagging, monthly monitoring and third‑party audits will track impact and growth.

After the maintenance period, the forest is expected to become fully self-sustaining, with natural canopy cover, leaf litter and native root systems supporting long-term ecological health.

The programme also features employee and family‑led plantation drives, structured forest maintenance days, and an Adopt‑a‑Tree initiative that enables Fidelity International employee volunteers to track the growth of their saplings over time. These efforts are complemented by ecological awareness sessions and nature‑based learning activities for employees and their children.

The initiative demonstrates the strength of collaborative action, combining CATCH Foundation’s ecological know‑how and Fidelity International’s long‑term commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.

 

St. Charles to Host 31st Annual Mosaics Fine Art Festival

Family-friendly celebration to feature 100+ artists, live music, children’s activities, and more.

(St. Charles, Mo., May 5, 2026) The 31st annual Mosaics Fine Art Festival will take place Fri., Sept. 11 from 4 to 9 p.m., Sat., Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sun., Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free family-friendly event will be held along several blocks of North Main St. in Historic St. Charles, Mo., home to more than 30 restaurants and over 75 shops are located.

The three-day festival will feature over 100 juried artists from more than 15 states exhibiting and selling their original artwork. Media categories include clay, drawing, glass, leather, metal, pastel, oil/acrylic, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor, and wood. A total of $5,000 will be presented to the top nine artists.

Children can enjoy hands-on art experiences in the popular Children’s Village where they can create their own make-and-take art masterpieces on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mary Hediger’s Memorial Art Shop for Kids allows children 14 and under the opportunity to purchase professional artwork. Designed to foster art appreciation at an early age, all pieces are donated by participating festival artists and can be purchased for a nominal fee. 

Festival entertainment will include live performances throughout the weekend on the H. Robert Pank Memorial Music Stage. Families interested in pet adoption can visit the Artists for Adoption Pet Pavilion, located at the north end of the festival, to meet animals from Stray Paws Adoptables.

The nonprofit Mosaics Fine Art Festival highlights local and regional artists while inspiring community engagement with the arts. The festival features a vibrant mix of emerging, mid-career, and established artists across all media. For more information, call (314) 406-2067 or visit http://www.stcharlesmosaics.org.

ten23 Health, West Partner for Synchrony™ S1 Syringe Manufacturing Readiness

ten23 health and West collaborate to ensure manufacturing readiness for West Synchrony™ S1 Prefillable Syringe System filling

Basel, Switzerland. May 4^th, 2026 — ten23 health®, a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in sterile fill-finish and advanced drug delivery systems, today announced that it has already successfully tested and ran the newly launched West Synchrony™ S1 prefillable syringe (PFS) system on its manufacturing equipment. The announcement follows West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.’s global commercial availability of the West Synchrony S1 PFS system, an innovative platform that uniquely integrates the syringe barrel, plunger, and needle shield/tip cap into a fully harmonized, verified system from a single supplier.

 
By evaluating the container system early on its fill-finish lines, ten23 health enables biopharma customers to rapidly adopt the West Synchrony S1 PFS system for clinical and early commercial programs, reducing technical risk and accelerating development timelines.

“Having already implemented and tested the West Synchrony S1 prefillable syringe system on our equipment, we are well positioned to support our partners with operational readiness,” said Hanns-Christian Mahler, Chief Enablement Officer, ten23 health. “Early hands-on experience with new container systems is critical for de-risking development, particularly as combination products and home-based administration continue to grow.”

The West Synchrony S1 PFS system offers a broad portfolio of configurations for biologics and vaccines, including staked needle and Luer lock options, along with high-performance NovaPure® and FluroTec™ film laminated plunger components. ten23 health’s early evaluation focused on manufacturability, compatibility, and process robustness under representative fill-finish conditions.
As drug developers face increasing regulatory and technical complexity, early alignment between container systems and manufacturing processes has become essential. ten23 health’s proactive early adoption and testing approach allows clients to transition seamlessly from development into clinical supply using commercially available, validated delivery platforms and add to ten23’s toolbox for available container and delivery options for its customers.

ten23 health will co-host an event together with West today (May 4^th) at its Basel premises, showcasing the filling of the Synchrony syringes on its pilot filling line.