Category Archives: News

‘Vande Mataram’ Resonates in Bratislava as Slovakia Welcomes Indian Delegation

Bratislava, June 16: In a heartwarming display of cultural respect and friendship, members of the Lucnica Ensemble welcomed an Indian delegation in Bratislava by performing Vande Mataram, India’s iconic national song. The gesture drew appreciation and highlighted the growing cultural ties between India and Slovakia.

The performance assumed special significance as India marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, a song that played a pivotal role in inspiring the country’s freedom movement and fostering a sense of national unity during the struggle against colonial rule.

The rendition by the renowned Slovak folk ensemble reflected the universal appeal of India’s rich cultural heritage and underscored the deepening people-to-people connections between the two nations. Members of the delegation expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and praised the performers for their heartfelt tribute.

Vande Mataram, composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, remains a symbol of patriotism and national pride. The occasion served as a reminder of its enduring legacy and its contribution to India’s journey toward independence.

The event also highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relationships and promoting mutual understanding among nations.

Authorities Warn Public Against Mule Account Frauds; Urge Citizens to Protect Banking and Digital Credentials

New Delhi, June 16: Cybercrime authorities have issued a fresh advisory urging citizens not to share their bank account details, rent out their UPI IDs, SIM cards, or agree to transfer money on behalf of unknown individuals, warning that such activities are commonly exploited by cybercriminals to create and operate “Mule Accounts.”

According to officials, fraudsters often lure individuals with promises of easy money, commissions, or temporary financial assistance in exchange for access to bank accounts, mobile numbers, or digital payment platforms. These accounts are then used to route illegally obtained funds, making unsuspecting individuals vulnerable to legal and financial consequences.

Authorities emphasized that even if a person is unaware of the criminal intent behind such transactions, allowing their account or digital identity to be used for suspicious financial activities can lead to serious repercussions. Citizens have been advised to remain vigilant and immediately report any such offers or suspicious requests.

As part of ongoing efforts to combat cyber fraud, the government has urged the public to verify financial transactions carefully and avoid sharing sensitive banking information with anyone. Awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate people about emerging cyber threats and safe digital practices.

Individuals who encounter cyber fraud or suspicious online activities have been advised to report the matter immediately by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or by lodging a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

For assistance and reporting, citizens can visit: National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal

India Set for Massive 5G Expansion; Subscriber Base Expected to Cross 1.1 Billion by 2031

New Delhi, June 16: India’s digital connectivity landscape is poised for a major transformation, with 5G subscriptions projected to exceed 1.1 billion by 2031, according to a recent industry report. The forecast highlights the country’s rapid adoption of next-generation mobile technology and growing demand for high-speed internet services.

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The report indicates that mobile data consumption is also expected to witness a sharp rise over the coming years. Average monthly data usage per smartphone is likely to nearly double by the end of the decade, driven by increasing consumption of high-definition video content, cloud-based applications, artificial intelligence services, online gaming, and digital commerce.

India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing telecom markets, supported by extensive 5G network deployment, affordable smartphones, and competitive data tariffs. The expansion of 5G services across urban and rural regions is expected to further accelerate digital inclusion and improve access to online services.

Experts believe that widespread 5G adoption will play a key role in strengthening sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, manufacturing, and smart infrastructure. Enhanced connectivity and lower network latency are expected to support emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), automation, and smart city solutions.

Industry observers note that India’s telecom sector is entering a new phase of growth, with 5G increasingly becoming the backbone of the country’s digital economy. Continued investments in network infrastructure and innovation are expected to further boost connectivity and economic development in the years ahead.

Cough Syrups to Be Sold Only Through Licensed Pharmacies: Government

Bhubaneswar, June 16: In a significant move to curb the misuse of cough syrups and ensure public safety, the government has announced that cough syrups will henceforth be sold only through licensed pharmacies. The decision aims to strengthen regulatory oversight and prevent the unauthorized sale and consumption of medicines containing potentially addictive ingredients.

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According to official sources, the new directive mandates that all cough syrup products be dispensed exclusively by registered and licensed medical stores in accordance with existing drug control regulations. Authorities have been instructed to intensify inspections and take strict action against individuals or establishments found violating the rules.

The government stated that the measure has been introduced in response to growing concerns over the misuse of certain cough syrups, particularly among young people. Restricting sales through authorized pharmacies is expected to enhance accountability, ensure proper record-keeping, and promote the responsible use of medicines.

Drug control authorities will work closely with pharmacists, healthcare providers, and law enforcement agencies to ensure effective implementation of the directive. Public awareness campaigns are also expected to be launched to educate citizens about the safe and appropriate use of prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

The government reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and preventing the abuse of pharmaceutical products while ensuring that genuine patients continue to have easy access to necessary medications.

Listing: This Father’s Day, Treat Dad to a Winning Day Out at Amoeba Sports Bar

This Father’s Day, celebrate the man who’s always been your biggest cheerleader with an experience that’s packed with fun, food, and unforgettable moments at Amoeba Sports Bar, Church Street. From exciting bowling sessions and arcade games to live sports screenings and indulgent comfort food, Amoeba offers the perfect setting for fathers and families to bond over shared experiences and a little healthy competition. The newly reimagined sports bar combines gaming, dining, and entertainment under one roof, making it one of Bengaluru’s most exciting social destinations. 

Whether it’s challenging dad to a game of bowling, reliving childhood memories over arcade games, or raising a toast while catching the latest sporting action on the big screens, Amoeba Sports Bar promises a Father’s Day celebration beyond the usual brunches and dinners. With its lively atmosphere, crowd-favourite bar bites, pizzas, burgers, wings, and interactive entertainment, families can spend quality time together while creating memories that last long after the day is over. 

Date: 21st June, 2026  (Sunday)Time – 11:00AM – 12:00AM Where: Amoeba Sports Bar, Church Street, BengaluruHighlights: Bowling, Arcade Games, Live Sports Screening, Food & Drinks, Family-Friendly EntertainmentOffer: Recharge Arcade Card Above ₹3,000 & Get:

• ₹1,000 Extra Credit

• 5 Free Video Games

• Special Gifts

Price : 1200/- for 2 pax at sportsbar 

Emilios Tannousis MCSI, FCCA appointed new president of CISI Cyprus National Advisory Council

Global educational charity and professional body the CISI (Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment) is delighted to announce the appointment of Emilios Tannousis MCSI, FCCA as president of the CISI’s Cyprus National Advisory Council (NAC).

Emilios (left) previously served as vice president of the CISI’s Cyprus NAC. He has over 25 years of experience in the wealth and asset management industry, with expertise in wealth management and family office advisory for both private and institutional clients. He currently serves as Partner, Wealth Management at Gravity Private Wealth, a European-regulated multi-family office advisory boutique firm serving private families and institutional investors across global financial markets.

Prior to joining Gravity, Emilios led the Wealth Management Units at Bank of Cyprus, overseeing teams serving private clients, family offices, investment funds, pension funds, insurance companies and other institutional investors.

He also currently serves on the Board of the Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) and is a member of the Advisory Board of the European Institute of Management and Finance (EIMF) Master’s programme in Risk and Governance.

Emilios Tannousis MCSI, FCCA said: “I am honoured to take on the Presidency of the CISI Cyprus National Advisory Council at a time when the financial services industry is rapidly evolving through innovation, digital transformation, and increasing global interconnection

“I look forward to collaborating closely with fellow peers and the Institute in London to further strengthen professional standards, promote ethical leadership, and support the continued development of Cyprus as a growing international financial services centre and as a hub for family wealth and fintech innovation, underpinned by a robust European regulatory framework.”

Tracy Vegro OBE CISI CEO said: “Our warmest congratulations to Emilios, who has been integral to our Cyprus NAC over the years and continues to be an advocate for CISI and the wider financial services profession. We look forward to supporting him in championing integrity, raising individual standards of knowledge, skills and behaviour.

“We are also deeply grateful for the outstanding service of Charles Charalambous, Chartered MCSI, Chief Executive Officer, Cyprowealth Group, who will remain with us as the Vice President of Cyprus NAC.”

The next Cyprus CISI event will be a summer social gathering and a date will be confirmed shortly.

Brompton processing and Absen LED panels bring the 50th Olivier Awards to the stage and screen

June 15th, 2026. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the annual Olivier Awards once again took place at London’s Royal Albert Hall to celebrate the best of theatrical entertainment, not only over the past 12 months, but the last 50 years. Blue-i Theatre Technology relied on Brompton Technology’s Tessera LED processing platform to help deliver a spectacular visual experience, both in the room and on screen, for the prestigious ceremony’s much anticipated return to prime-time BBC television.

Into The Woods and Paddington The Musical, which also features Brompton processing, both led the evening’s nominations with 11 each, with Paddington The Musical taking home seven awards, including Best New Musical. 

The LED rig was split into seven pieces: a central 16:9 screen flew in and out throughout the ceremony to display VT packages and scenic content behind performers, while another six screens built into the scenery as ‘posters’ were used for both scenic content and imagery celebrating nominated and winning productions.

The setup comprised two Tessera 4K SX40 LED processors and two Tessera XD 10G data distribution units for the main flown screen, with a matching configuration of two further SX40s and two XDs powering the poster screens.

This year also saw Blue-i transition to its latest batch of Absen Saturn 2.6mm panels, chosen specifically to run on Brompton processing. The move brought a significant practical advantage, with the new panels weighing less than half their predecessors, a benefit welcomed by the automation and rigging teams working within the Royal Albert Hall.

“Productions of this scale demand complete confidence in every element of the LED workflow,” says Darren Jackson, Business Development Manager (UK and Ireland) at Absen Europe. “The combination of Absen Saturn panels and Brompton processing gave Blue-i the performance, colour fidelity and reliability needed for a live prime-time broadcast, and we’re proud to have contributed to such a landmark celebration of British theatre.”

For Blue-i’s Head of Technical Theatre, Sam Jeffs, the Olivier Awards is a personal highlight of the year, and marked his 12th consecutive year working on the show. As a broadcast production, the technical stakes were particularly high and redundancy was a top priority. “Being a live broadcast, project timings are really tight, so ensuring we could load in quickly and have a rock solid system with full redundancy was very important,” Jeffs explains. “The SX40 and XD combination allowed for multiple layers of redundancy, which makes it one of our favourite Brompton features.”

Ultra-low latency was equally critical for the live camera feeds that were central to the show’s broadcast. This feature reduces end-to-end latency to just one frame across the processor, providing an effective solution for exactly these kinds of broadcast demands. Because the production signal had to pass through an outside broadcast system, minimising latency at every possible point in the chain was essential.

Genlock further supported the broadcast pipeline, allowing the entire LED system to be synchronised to the production’s house sync, helping eliminate any risk of on-camera artefacts during the live transmission.

The fine colour control offered by the SX40s, in particular ChromaTune, which includes a 14-way colour corrector, also proved invaluable in collaborating with the broadcast engineering team to achieve the precise on camera look required. “Having the fine colour controls was heavily used to work with the broadcast engineers to get things looking just right on camera,” Jeffs says. “The different levels of control really helped dial things in quickly.” 

He also highlighted Brompton’s Stacking feature, which ensured any changes made were propagated across all four SX40 units simultaneously, enabling rapid adjustments across the system. The Frame Store feature meanwhile provided an added layer of confidence, giving the team the ability to store and recall video snapshots as a contingency should any issues arise during the live broadcast.

“It’s always a highlight of the year, celebrating the success of UK theatre, and it’s such a privilege to be a part of that,” Jeffs reflects. “For me it’s special, as it’s one of the few shows for which I’m still in the hot seat looking after programming.” 

“The Olivier Awards’ return to prime-time TV is a landmark occasion,” concludes Patrick Goodden, Technical Sales Manager (UK and Ireland) at Brompton Technology. “Live broadcast is one of the most demanding environments for LED processing, with latency, redundancy and colour accuracy requiring no margin for error. The fact that Blue-i have built their entire workflow around the SX40 is a real testament to what the platform can deliver; it’s a privilege to support them in making something this special look its very best.”

Dr. Sangeeta Baid Launches Read, Reflect & Rise at Taj Connemara, Chennai

Chennai, June 15, 2026: Author Dr. Sangeeta Baid today launched her book Read, Reflect & Rise at a well-attended event held at the Ballroom, Taj Connemara, Chennai. The evening brought together family members, friends, professionals, readers, distinguished guests, and members of the media to celebrate the launch of a book focused on personal growth, self-awareness, and purposeful living.

The book was formally unveiled by the Chief Guests, Sri Daman Prakash Ji Rathore and Dr. Saranya Jaikumar, who congratulated Dr. Sangeeta Baid on her literary contribution and appreciated the book’s focus on self-reflection, personal development, and value-based living.

The event featured the ceremonial unveiling of the book followed by an engaging session that celebrated the author’s journey and accomplishments. One of the highlights of the evening was a special audience interaction segment moderated by the event anchor. Through a series of questions, family members, friends, and well-wishers of Dr. Sangeeta Baid shared personal anecdotes and insights about her journey, values, and dedication. Their heartfelt responses received warm appreciation and applause from the audience, offering a deeper glimpse into the person behind the author.

Unlike conventional self-help books, Read, Reflect & Rise combines inspiring stories with reflection exercises, journal prompts, quizzes, and practical challenges, encouraging readers to actively engage with the lessons and apply them in their daily lives. The book explores key values including belief, balance, bravery, compassion, communication, confidence, commitment, and personal responsibility.

Guests appreciated the book’s practical approach and its ability to connect timeless life lessons with contemporary challenges. Many described it as a guide for individuals seeking greater clarity, resilience, and purpose in both their personal and professional lives.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sangeeta Baid said, “This book is an invitation to pause, reflect on our experiences, learn from them, and rise stronger. True transformation begins when we become willing to look within.”

The evening concluded with a networking dinner and book-signing session, where guests interacted with the author, shared their feedback, and congratulated her on the successful launch.

Read, Reflect & Rise is now available for purchase on Amazon. Readers can order their copy at:

https://www.amazon.in/READ-REFLECT-RISE/dp/9369107630

About the Author

Dr. Sangeeta Baid is an author, speaker, and advocate of personal growth and conscious living. Through her work, she seeks to inspire individuals to embrace self-awareness, cultivate positive values, and lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

About the Book

Read, Reflect & Rise is a transformational book designed to help readers develop self-awareness and positive life values through stories, reflective exercises, and actionable insights. It aims to inspire meaningful personal growth by encouraging readers to read with intention, reflect with honesty, and rise with confidence.

Stupa Sports’ Advanced Decision Review System to power Rugby Premier League Season 2

Gurugram, June 15: Stupa Sports, the leading global AI-powered sports technology and analytics firm, today announced that its cutting-edge Advanced Decision Review System (ADRS) is all set to power the upcoming Rugby Premier League (RPL) Season 2, scheduled to take place from June 16 to June 28, 2026, at Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. The tournament will bring together the country’s top rugby talent in a fast-paced, high-intensity format.

As part of this collaboration, Stupa will deploy its advanced, operator-led video review capabilities to support match officials and medical teams throughout the tournament. The system integrates multi-angle camera feeds with frame-by-frame playback, slow-motion analysis, and zoom functionalities (as available in broadcast feeds), enabling faster, more accurate on-field decision-making. Additionally, Stupa’s real-time clipping and replay technology will ensure that key incidents are reviewed instantly, with decisive clips delivered within a turnaround time of two minutes.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for Stupa Sports as it expands beyond its stronghold in racquet sports such as table tennis and badminton into the dynamic world of rugby. Known for delivering federation-certified tracking and analytics solutions in high-speed racquet sports, Stupa’s entry into a full-contact team sport like rugby underscores the scalability and adaptability of its AI-driven sports technology platform.

Megha Gambhir, CEO and Co-Founder of Stupa Sports, commemorating the partnership, said, “We are delighted to announce our partnership with the Rugby Premier League for Season 2. It represents an exciting step forward for us. Rugby is a fast, high-impact sport where decision accuracy and response time are critical, not just for fairness, but also for player safety. Our advanced DRS capabilities are designed to empower referees and medical teams with precise, real-time visual evidence. Expanding into rugby reflects our broader vision of building a multi-sport technology platform that can enhance officiating standards across diverse sporting ecosystems.”

Sourojit Ghosh, General Manager – HP & T&E, Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU), expressed his thoughts with “At Rugby India, player welfare and match integrity remain at the heart of everything we do. In line with World Rugby’s player welfare and match official standards, our partnership with Stupa strengthens our ability to make accurate, timely, and evidence-based decisions during matches. Their advanced video review capabilities provide valuable support to referees and medical teams, particularly in critical areas such as foul play review and head injury assessment protocols. By integrating this technology into our competitions, we are reinforcing our commitment to safer rugby, consistent officiating, and the highest standards of player welfare across the game.”

With this deployment at the Rugby 7s tournament in Hyderabad, Stupa continues to demonstrate the versatility of its technology across sporting formats. From precision tracking in racquet sports to real-time video-assisted review systems in contact team sports, the company is steadily building a comprehensive sports intelligence ecosystem designed to serve leagues, federations, and emerging tournaments globally.

The partnership further consolidates Stupa Sports’ expanding footprint within the sports ecosystem. Much like its recent landmark milestones – including the BWF certification of its AI-powered Instant Review System for all sanctioned badminton tournaments, its role as Data and Technology Partner for the Pickleball Champions League Asia Finals, the deployment of Stupa Cast for the Generali Hexagon Cup Padel tournament, and its provision of AI analytics for Major League Table Tennis and the Prime Volleyball League, along with its growing footprint in Oceania through agreements with Table Tennis Australia – this partnership reinforces Stupa’s position as an Indian firm leading technology innovation across multiple sports and federations globally.

From Swings to Trade Fairs: Raja Parba 2026 Transforms Odisha into a Festival of Earth, Culture, and Economy

 As the first monsoon showers touch the parched land of Odisha, the state comes alive with the vibrant celebration of Raja Parba 2026, a unique four-day festival that blends ecological awareness, cultural tradition, and social joy. Unlike many festivals centered on deities, Raja Parba stands apart as a deeply symbolic celebration of Mother Earth and womanhood.

The word Raja comes from Rajaswala, meaning a menstruating woman. In Odia tradition, it is believed that Bhudevi (Mother Earth) undergoes her menstrual cycle during this period, resting and rejuvenating before the agricultural season begins. The festival therefore becomes a time of respect, rest, and renewal for nature.

Earth in Rest: The Core Philosophy

During Raja Parba, Odisha symbolically halts agricultural activity to honor the Earth’s resting phase. Farmers avoid ploughing fields, cutting trees, or disturbing the soil. People treat the ground with care, reflecting a deep environmental ethic rooted in tradition.

Household routines also change significantly. Women and young girls are traditionally exempted from daily labor, especially cooking and heavy chores, marking a rare social pause that celebrates womanhood and rest.

The Four Days of Raja Parba 2026

The festival in 2026 continues to follow its structured four-day cycle:

1. Sajabaja (June 13) – The Preparation Day

The day before the festival is dedicated to preparation. Homes are cleaned, ingredients are stored, clothes are arranged, and all heavy work is completed in advance so that the coming days remain free of labor.

2. Pahili Raja (June 14) – The First Day

The festival officially begins. Girls wear new traditional attire, apply alata (red dye) to their feet, and gather for swings tied to mango and banyan trees. The atmosphere fills with Raja Geeta folk songs and community bonding.

3. Raja Sankranti (June 15) – The Main Celebration

Also known as Mithuna Sankranti, this is the peak day of festivities. Families prepare elaborate feasts, community gatherings are held, and traditional games and cultural performances take place across villages and towns.

4. Basi Raja / Basumati Snana (June 16) – The Closing Ritual

The final day marks the ritualistic conclusion of the festival. The Sila (household grinding stone symbolizing Mother Earth) is bathed with turmeric, decorated with flowers and fruits, and worshipped, signifying the Earth’s rejuvenation and readiness for cultivation.

Swings, Songs, and Culinary Heritage

The most iconic image of Raja Parba remains the decorated swings (doli) suspended from banyan and mango trees become centers of joy, where young women swing high while singing traditional Raja Geeta folk songs.

Food is central to the celebration. The festival is synonymous with rich traditional delicacies like poda pitha, slow-cooked overnight in a clay oven, along with arisa pitha, manda pitha, and chakuli. These dishes reflect Odisha’s deep culinary heritage.

Another cherished tradition is the Raja Paan, a festive betel leaf preparation filled with sweet spices, coconut, and cherries, widely sold in markets and stalls during the festival.

Raja Parba 2026 Meets Modern Odisha: Trade Fairs and Economic Energy

In 2026, Raja Parba is not only a cultural celebration but also an economic driver in urban Odisha. In Janata Maidan Exhibition Ground, a large Raja-themed trade fair has been organized, bringing together artisans, entrepreneurs, and self-help groups from across the state.

Similarly, exhibitions and commercial stalls at the IDCO Exhibition Ground Trade Fair have strengthened seasonal economic activity. These platforms showcase handlooms, handicrafts, rural products, food industries, and local enterprises, generating income opportunities during the festive season.

This blending of culture and commerce has significantly boosted Odisha’s local economy, particularly benefiting small traders, artisans, and women-led self-help groups.

A Festival Rooted in Ecology and Humanity

Raja Parba 2026 is a reminder of Odisha’s unique cultural philosophy—where human life is seen in harmony with nature’s cycles. It celebrates rest for the Earth, dignity for women, and joy for communities, all while adapting to modern economic realities.

From rural swings under mango trees to bustling trade fairs in Bhubaneswar, Raja Parba continues to evolve—yet remains deeply rooted in its timeless message: the prosperity of humans is inseparable from the well-being of nature.