Category Archives: News

Malaysia Airlines Marks 200th Boeing Aircraft Delivery Milestone with Latest 737-8 Arrival

KLIA, May 25:  Malaysia Airlines today marked the arrival of its Boeing 737-8 aircraft, the fourth of the type delivered to the airline this year, and a milestone that also represents the 200th Boeing aircraft delivered to Malaysia Airlines in its history.

 Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MAG, said,

“This delivery holds special significance as it marks the 200th Boeing aircraft to join the Malaysia Airlines fleet since 1972. More than just an addition to our fleet, this milestone reflects a long-standing operational history that has supported our capacity growth and fleet evolution over the decades as we continue our deep-seated mission to connecting Malaysia to the world. The introduction of these nextgeneration aircraft will further strengthen our ability to support future growth opportunities and evolving market needs, while continuing to deliver a more modern and comfortable travel experience for our customers.” 

The airline’s fleet history reflects periods of significant scale and ambition, including widebody operations such as the Boeing 747 and Boeing 777, which underscored the airline’s long-haul capabilities and global connectivity during key phases of growth. Together with the evolution of the Boeing 737 family, these aircraft reflect how the airline that has continuously adapted, modernised, and expanded its reach over the decades. 

Today’s aircraft, bearing registration number 9M-MVR, departed from Boeing’s Seattle Delivery Centre on 21 May 2026 at 2:00pm local time and made refuelling stops in Honolulu and Guam before continuing its journey home to Malaysia. Operated as flight MH5045, the aircraft was flown by Captain Arian Syazwara B. Adenan, Captain Mohd Aidilputra bin Abd Razak and First Officer Ahmad Asnawi bin Ahmad Rahman, and landed at KL International Airport  on 24 May 2026 at 1:30pm after a a total flight time of 19 hours 44 minutes. 

he latest addition reflects Malaysia Aviation Group’s  continued focus on fleet modernisation as it strengthens network connectivity, improves efficiency and enhances the travel experience across its network. The Boeing 737-8 plays an important role in supporting the Group’s narrowbody operations with greater fuel efficiency, improved reliability and enhanced passenger comfort.  

To date, MAG has taken delivery of 18 Boeing 737-8 aircraft from its total order of 55 Boeing narrowbody aircraft, comprising 43 Boeing 737-8s and 12 Boeing 737-10s, with deliveries scheduled through to 2030.

KIIT International Chess Festival 2026 Opens in Bhubaneswar With Global Participation

Bhubaneswar, May 25 (BNP): The 17th edition of the KIIT International Chess Festival commenced at the KIIT campus in Bhubaneswar, bringing together thousands of players, officials and chess enthusiasts from across the globe for one of India’s largest international chess tournaments.

Organised by KIIT Deemed to be University in association with International Chess Federation, All India Chess Federation and the Odisha Chess Association, the tournament is being held from May 23 to 30 and features a record prize pool of ₹1.31 crore — the highest offered by any university-hosted chess event in India.

The festival has drawn participation from over 40 countries, with around 4,000 players, officials and accompanying delegates attending the event. The tournament features a strong international field, including 25 Grandmasters, 50 International Masters and more than 85 title holders, reflecting its growing stature in the global chess calendar.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Achyuta Samanta said KIIT has consistently promoted sports alongside academics and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting chess and nurturing young talent. He also acknowledged the support of FIDE, AICF and the Odisha Chess Association in helping the festival evolve into a globally recognised competition.

Tournament Director Sekhar Ranjan Sahoo said nearly 2,800 players are competing in this edition and described the event as one of the richest chess festivals globally. He expressed optimism that participation would continue to grow in future editions.

Organising committee president Ranjan Kumar Mohanty noted that the tournament, which started in 2011 with a prize pool of ₹16 lakh, has grown significantly over the years to become an internationally recognised event.

Vice Chancellor of KIIT-DU Saranjit Singh highlighted the importance of sports infrastructure in producing world-class athletes and said institutions must create a supportive ecosystem for talent development.

The week-long championship is expected to further strengthen Odisha’s position as an emerging destination for international sporting and intellectual events while providing young players with valuable global exposure.

CBSE Overhauls Payment System; PSU Banks, IIT Experts to Fix Re-Evaluation Glitches

New Delhi, May 25 (BNP): In response to widespread technical glitches and payment-related issues faced by students during the CBSE post-result and re-evaluation process, the Centre has initiated a major overhaul of the payment and digital infrastructure of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

Representational image

Following discussions between Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, it has been decided that four public sector banks — State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank and Indian Bank — will assist CBSE in strengthening its payment gateway system and integrating secure payment mechanisms with its post-examination services portal.

The move comes after students and parents raised concerns over failed transactions, portal instability and delays in accessing re-evaluation services following board examination results. Officials said the upgraded payment framework will introduce stronger digital payment protocols, help resolve transaction glitches and facilitate automatic refunds in cases of excess or failed payments.

In a parallel intervention, the Education Ministry has also directed CBSE to undertake a complete review of its digital systems to ensure a seamless and student-friendly experience. Expert teams comprising professors and technical specialists from Indian Institute of Technology Madras and Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur will be deployed to assist the board in improving portal stability, server performance, IT infrastructure and authentication systems.

The expert teams are expected to assess the overall robustness of CBSE’s online platform and recommend corrective measures to ensure a glitch-free re-evaluation process, smoother user access and improved payment efficiency.

Reiterating that student welfare remains the top priority, Pradhan directed CBSE to implement corrective measures on an urgent basis to ensure transparency, reliability and a hassle-free experience for students availing post-result services.

Slow travel and shorter journeys emerge as defining summer travel trend for 2026

In 2026, luxury travel is becoming more intentional, with travellers increasingly choosing shorter, slower, and more meaningful escapes over long, exhaustive holidays. The focus is shifting from covering multiple destinations to experiencing a place more deeply, whether through wellness, nature, culture, or simple moments of pause. From restorative retreats nestled in the mountains to heritage stays steeped in local storytelling, these short-haul getaways offer the luxury of ease, accessibility, and emotional connection. As travellers prioritise balance, flexibility, and mindful living, the rise of closer-to-home escapes is redefining what modern summer travel looks like.

Culture-Led Escape – Close to Home

voco Amritsar

Set in the heart of one of India’s most culturally rich cities, voco Amritsar offers travellers a short haul escape that blends heritage, comfort, and immersive local experiences. Located close to the Golden Temple and the city’s historic old lanes, voco Amritsar features 139 contemporary rooms designed for a relaxed and comfortable stay. Guests can also unwind over leisurely meals at Saffron – all day dining, sundowners and rooftop evenings at Plum Lounge, or rejuvenating wellness experiences at Tattva Spa. Through thoughtfully curated experiences including heritage walks, local dining, and cultural discovery, voco Amritsar reflects the growing shift towards slower, experience-led getaways, that feel both restorative and deeply connected to place.

Heritage & Wellness Escapes – Slow Living in Regal Surroundings

Six Senses Fort Barwara

Set within a restored 14th-century fort in Rajasthan, Six Senses Fort Barwara offers a slower, more intentional style of escape shaped by heritage, wellness, and a strong sense of place. Within easy reach of major North Indian cities, the retreat brings together royal history, holistic wellness experiences, locally inspired cuisine, and the quiet serenity of the fort’s surroundings. From unhurried mornings overlooking the Aravallis to restorative spa rituals and immersive cultural experiences, the property reflects the growing shift toward travel that feels restorative, personal, and deeply connected to its destination.

Wellness Retreats – Reset, Rebalance, Restore

Six Senses Vana

As wellness continues to define modern travel, short-haul retreats are increasingly becoming spaces for genuine reset. Nestled within Dehradun’s sal forests, Six Senses Vana offers personalised wellness journeys rooted in holistic healing, mindfulness, and ancient therapies. With its deeply immersive approach to wellbeing, the retreat reflects a growing preference for purpose-driven escapes where rest, balance, and inner wellbeing take precedence over packed itineraries.

Nature-Led Escapes – Into the Wild, Without the Distance

Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa

Set between the Malani Hills and the tranquil Kosi River, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa offers a slower, more restorative escape from the pace of city life. Just a few hours from Delhi NCR, the resort brings together wild landscapes, sunrise safaris, riverside trails, Ayurvedic therapies at Quan Spa, Kumaoni flavours at The Corbett Kitchen, and nature-inspired cocktails at Sal Bar. Whether travelling solo, with friends, or family, it’s an ideal setting for a mindful summer getaway immersed in nature.

Familiar Favourites – Comfort in the Known

Holiday Inn Resort Goa

In an era of uncertainty and fast-paced lives, travellers are returning to destinations that feel familiar yet indulgent. Goa continues to lead this sentiment, with trusted stays offering comfort, accessibility, and ease. Holiday Inn Resort Goa embodies this shift, where repeat visits are less about novelty and more about effortless relaxation and rediscovering joy in the familiar.

Padma Shri 2026 for Devaki Amma G. for Extraordinary Contribution to Conservation

Alappuzha(Kerala), May 24 (BNP): Veteran environmentalist Devaki Amma G will be honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri 2026 for her extraordinary contribution to environmental conservation and afforestation. The 92-year-old conservationist from Muthukulam in Kerala’s Alappuzha district has earned national recognition for transforming barren land into a thriving green ecosystem through decades of tireless dedication.

Over the last four decades, Devaki Amma single-handedly developed a five-acre man-made forest, popularly known as “Tapovanam,” on sandy and once unproductive ancestral land. What began as a personal effort gradually evolved into a self-sustaining ecosystem with thousands of trees, medicinal plants, birds, insects, and aquatic life, making it a model of grassroots environmental restoration.

Recognised among the country’s “unsung heroes,” Devaki Amma has been honoured for her unwavering commitment to biodiversity conservation and afforestation. Despite physical challenges and limited institutional support, she continued planting and nurturing saplings for over 40 years, inspiring generations through her dedication to protecting nature.

Today, Tapovanam serves as a living classroom for students, researchers, and environmental enthusiasts, while also offering medicinal resources to local communities. Devaki Amma’s Padma Shri recognition highlights the importance of individual efforts in ecological preservation and sustainable living.

When Craft Becomes Subtle: The Rise of Understated Detail in Menswear

Jaipur, May 23 : For decades, craft in Indian menswear has been measured by visibility. The richness of a garment was often defined by the density of its embroidery, the scale of its motifs, and the immediacy of its impact. The more intricate the surface, the stronger its association with luxury.

That equation is beginning to shift.

A quieter design language is emerging. One where craft is not removed, but recalibrated. It is still present, but it does not announce itself at first glance. It reveals itself slowly, through texture, finish, and proximity.

Not long ago, subtlety in Indian menswear could easily be mistaken for incompleteness. Today, it feels intentional.

From Visibility to Restraint

The move toward understated detailing reflects a broader change in how men want to dress. There is a growing resistance to clothing that feels overly decorative or tied too closely to a single occasion. Instead, there is a preference for pieces that carry refinement without excess.

This is where subtle craft comes into focus. Minimal thread detailing, tonal work, and controlled surface treatments are replacing dense embroidery. The intention is not to reduce effort, but to refine how that effort is expressed.

Garments such as Jodhpuri sets and Nehru jackets are being reinterpreted with this approach. Their identity remains intact, but the execution feels lighter, more considered, and easier to return to.

The Discipline of Doing Less

Restraint in design is often more demanding than excess. It leaves very little room to hide.

In this framework, craft operates through nuance. A line of threadwork, a shift in texture, or a subtle patchwork panel can define the garment without overwhelming it. The focus moves from decoration to construction, from surface to structure.

“Craft is not disappearing. It is becoming more intentional,” says Chirag Sogani, founder of Pleyne. “We are working with details that do not dominate the garment, but still hold its identity. The idea is to create something that feels refined without feeling excessive.”

In many ways, restraint today feels more deliberate than excess ever did.

Lightness as a Marker of Luxury

The move toward subtle detailing is also tied to climate and comfort. In a setting where heavy fabrics and dense embroidery can feel restrictive, lighter construction becomes essential.

Minimal surface work allows garments to remain breathable while still offering visual depth. Bombers and overshirts, for instance, are being developed with controlled detailing that enhances the piece without adding weight.

Patchwork, too, is being reconsidered. Instead of bold contrasts or decorative layering, it is used with restraint to introduce texture. The effect is quieter, but also more wearable.

Designing for Repeat Wear

One of the advantages of understated craft is its adaptability. Garments with minimal detailing are easier to style across different settings. They do not feel limited to a single occasion.

A Nehru jacket with subtle threadwork can move from a formal gathering to a more relaxed setting without appearing out of place. A lightly detailed overshirt can function as both a standalone piece and a layering element.

This kind of flexibility encourages repeat wear. It shifts the value of a garment from how impactful it is once, to how consistently it can be worn.

A More Considered Expression of Craft

“We are seeing a clear movement towards restraint,” adds Chirag Sogani. “Luxury today is not about how much you can add, but how thoughtfully you can edit. Subtlety allows the garment to stay relevant across time and context.”

As Indian menswear continues to evolve, this recalibration of craft is becoming more significant. It reflects a clearer understanding of how men engage with clothing today.

The emphasis is no longer on immediate impact. It is on longevity, comfort, and quiet confidence.

Chandrayaan-3 Wins Prestigious US Space Honour Years After Historic Moon Landing

May 23 (BNP): India’s landmark lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3, has received the prestigious 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, marking a major global recognition of the country’s achievements in space exploration. The honour was presented during the AIAA ASCEND 2026 Conference in Washington, D.C. on May 21.

The award recognises Chandrayaan-3’s historic feat of becoming the first spacecraft to successfully soft-land near the Moon’s south pole on August 23, 2023 — a scientifically significant region that had never before witnessed a surface-level landing mission. The achievement strengthened India’s position among leading spacefaring nations and opened new possibilities for future lunar exploration.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, accepted the award on behalf of the Indian Space Research Organisation during the ceremony. He highlighted India’s long-term ambitions in deep-space exploration and human spaceflight while underscoring the growing cooperation between India and the United States in the space sector.

The Goddard Astronautics Award is regarded as the highest honour bestowed by AIAA for notable achievements in astronautics and commemorates pioneering rocket scientist Robert H. Goddard. Chandrayaan-3’s recognition reflects India’s expanding scientific capabilities and its rising global influence in advanced space research.

Shreyas WebMedia Solutions Participates in WTC Women’s Forum Meet in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, May 23: World Trade Center Bhubaneswar organized the WTC Women’s Forum Meet – WAVE (Women as Vibrant Entrepreneurs: Connect, Collaborate & Conquer) on May 22, 2026, at the IDCO Conference Hall, Bhubaneswar. The event brought together women entrepreneurs, professionals, and members of the WTC network to discuss business opportunities, collaboration, skill development, and institutional support.

Representing Shreyas WebMedia Solutions, Director K. Gouri and Administrative Officer Bhumika Lenka actively participated in the forum and interacted with fellow WTC members during the networking sessions.

During the meeting, all participating members introduced themselves and shared details about their businesses, future plans, and entrepreneurial journeys. Several members discussed their interest in expanding into import and export activities and highlighted the challenges they face in areas such as market access, logistics, international trade guidance, business networking, and regulatory processes. The forum created an open and supportive platform where members could voice their concerns and seek guidance from WTC Bhubaneswar.

The discussions aimed to help the organization better understand the needs of entrepreneurs so that suitable support, mentorship, and business solutions could be provided through the WTC network. Members also exchanged ideas on collaboration opportunities and explored ways to strengthen women-led businesses through global trade connections.

Key agenda points included planning for Raja Parba celebrations, arrangements for International Yoga Day, and a proposed visit to the World Skill Centre on June 5. The meeting also emphasized member engagement, institutional strengthening, and the importance of creating opportunities for professional growth and international business exposure.

Representatives from Shreyas WebMedia Solutions described the event as highly informative and beneficial, noting that it provided a valuable opportunity to connect with WTC members, understand industry challenges, and build meaningful professional relationships.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks followed by high tea, encouraging further networking and interaction among participants.

Karnataka Doctor Grows 30 Tonnes of Chemical-Free Kesar Mangoes on Rocky Land Using Israeli Technology

Karnataka, May 23 (BNP): A doctor from Karnataka has turned barren, rocky land into a thriving mango orchard, producing nearly 30 tonnes of chemical-free Kesar mangoes with the help of Israeli farming technology and sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr. Sameer Nair, an Ayurvedic practitioner based in Belagavi, transformed over five acres of rocky terrain into a high-density Kesar mango plantation after adopting Israel-inspired cultivation techniques. Beginning the venture in 2019, the orchard started yielding fruit within three years and has witnessed rapid growth since then, with production expected to touch nearly 30 tonnes this season — almost six times higher than earlier harvests.

Unlike traditional mango cultivation, which generally involves fewer trees per acre and longer waiting periods, Dr. Nair implemented high-density farming by planting around 700 saplings per acre. Supported by drip irrigation, solar-powered systems, and water conservation structures, the orchard has significantly improved productivity while reducing resource wastage.

The farm follows nearly 95 per cent organic practices, relying largely on cow dung-based manure and farm waste instead of chemicals. The mangoes are allowed to ripen naturally on trees without artificial ripening agents, aiming to preserve both taste and consumer health. Each fruit is also protected using eco-friendly bags to shield it from insects, harsh weather, and microbial damage, while enhancing quality and colour.

Sold under the brand “Vaishali Farm Kesar Mango,” named after his mother, the produce has attracted strong customer demand, with buyers visiting the orchard directly and exports reaching overseas markets in previous seasons. Dr. Nair is now reportedly planning to process surplus mangoes into pulp for long-term preservation.

Dr. Nair’s success story highlights how a blend of modern agricultural innovation and eco-friendly farming can transform unproductive land into a sustainable, profitable venture.

New Balance Brings Grey Days 2026 to India

India,  May 23 : New Balance celebrated Grey Days 2026 with the launch of its first New Retail Concept store at DLF Mall of India, Noida, alongside ambassadors Janhvi Kapoor and Pat Cummins. A global celebration of the brand’s signature colour, Grey Days honours the timeless influence of grey — from its origins as a practical choice for runners to its evolution as a defining expression of New Balance’s heritage, craftsmanship, and independent spirit.

The New Retail Concept store introduces a new chapter in New Balance’s retail journey in India blending the performance and lifestyle universe together through an elevated retail environment designed around product discovery, community, and brand storytelling.

Positioned at the intersection of sports & culture, New Balance brought together its ambassadors in a neighbourhood-inspired setup which featured an engaging fireside chat & an interactive cricket session with the ambassadors—creating a moment that felt both personal and culturally relevant.

Pat Cummins, Australian cricketer and New Balance ambassador, added,

 “I’m delighted to be a part of the Grey Days celebrations in India. Grey has always been New Balance’s signature colour and it is exciting to see the brand bringing this to life in India – creating spaces where sport, style, and community come together in a very natural way.”

Stuart Henwood, Senior Director, New Balance, Middle East, Africa & India, said,

“Grey Days is a celebration of everything New Balance stands for – timeless design, craftsmanship, and an independent spirit that has defined the brand for decades. As we expand across the MEAI region, our focus remains on creating authentic, meaningful experiences that connect our consumers to the essence of New Balance.”

Speaking about the campaign and the store launch, actress and New Balance ambassador Janhvi Kapoor said,

“Grey Days celebrates what I personally love about New Balance  its quiet confidence and its ability to stay true to itself while continuing to evolve. It feels great being a part of this celebration that honours the brand’s legacy, timeless design, & brings together the entire New Balance community across the globe.”

Radeshwer Davar, Country Manager, New Balance India, said,

“The launch of our New Retail Concept store at DLF Mall of India, Noida marks an important milestone in New Balance’s retail expansion journey in the country. As we continue to strengthen our retail presence, our focus remains on delivering elevated and immersive consumer experiences. Celebrating this milestone with our ambassadors during Grey Days makes it particularly special and reflects the growing momentum of the brand in India.”