16, Jun 2026
AVILOO turns battery anxiety into battery confidence with industry-first warranty for used EVs
London, June 16 : AVILOO, the global leader in independent EV battery diagnostics, today announces the launch of the AVILOO Battery Warranty in the UK – the first product of its kind to provide used EV buyers with genuine, financially backed protection based entirely on independent battery health data.
The warranty comes into effect in July in the UK, launching simultaneously in Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, Austria, Belgium, Ireland and Switzerland, following successful rollouts in France and Sweden in June.
The used EV market in the UK is growing rapidly, but buyer confidence has not kept pace. For most consumers, the battery – the single most expensive component in any electric vehicle – remains an unknown quantity at the point of purchase. Manufacturer-reported health figures are neither independently verified nor standardised. The AVILOO Battery Warranty changes that.
How it works: for dealers
The Battery Warranty is issued as a standalone document, separate from AVILOO’s existing independent battery certificate. It is managed through AVILOO Connect, a new digital dashboard for professional EV remarketing, giving dealers, fleet operators, and remarketing platforms a single interface to manage battery test lifecycles from incoming inspection through to warranty issuance.
For each vehicle, an individual State of Health (SoH) floor is calculated using AVILOO’s proprietary diagnostics database – the largest battery health dataset in the world. The calculation sets the minimum SoH the battery must maintain at 20,000 kilometres over the one-year warranty period. Dealers can offer this warranty to buyers as a credible, independently underwritten selling point, without carrying the risk themselves.
How it works: for buyers
Buyers receive a one-year warranty period during which they can carry out an AVILOO FLASH Test – a three-minute, manufacturer-neutral diagnostic that assesses real battery capacity, thermal management, and charging capability against original factory specifications, covering 96% of EV models currently on the road.
If the battery’s SoH falls below the calculated threshold during the warranty period, the buyer receives £2,700 in compensation plus a full refund of the FLASH Test costs. This is a concrete, unconditional financial backstop, not a vague assurance.
Marcus Berger, CEO of AVILOO, said:
“The AVILOO Battery Warranty raises the used electric vehicle market to a new level. For the first time in the UK, we are providing the foundation for a warranty based solely on objective, independent measurement data. This builds trust and gives British dealers and buyers a level of certainty that simply has not existed before. The UK has one of Europe’s most dynamic used EV markets, and we see enormous appetite from both dealers and consumers to get this right. With the Battery Warranty, we are setting a new industry standard – one that provides orientation for all market participants, strengthens the case for electric mobility, and ensures that used EVs are seen not as a risk, but as a sustainable, trustworthy choice.”
Already trusted by Europe’s biggest automotive names
AVILOO’s credentials in independent battery diagnostics are already well established. Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Porsche Holding have each selected AVILOO as their preferred third-party battery testing provider for dealerships across Europe, with the FLASH Test deployed on both own-brand and trade-in vehicles.
Leasing majors Ayvens and Arval use AVILOO as part of their end-of-lease remarketing process. Auction groups BCA and Cox Automotive have integrated the FLASH Test into their European operations. Major dealer groups Hedin and Emil Frey are also live. All relationships are underpinned by European-level agreements.
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- By Neel Achary
16, Jun 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Conferred Slovakia’s Highest Civilian Honour
Bratislava/New Delhi, June 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred The Order of the White Double Cross (First Class), one of Slovakia’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing India’s global stature.
x.com/MohanMOdisha
The prestigious award reflects international recognition of Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and his efforts to deepen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between India and nations across the world. The honour also underscores the growing importance of India as a key global partner and a trusted voice on international issues.
Congratulatory messages poured in from various quarters, praising the Prime Minister’s vision, statesmanship, and commitment to advancing India’s interests on the global stage. Observers noted that under his leadership, India has significantly expanded its international engagement while earning greater respect, trust, and admiration among the global community.
The award ceremony in Bratislava highlighted the strengthening partnership between India and Slovakia, with both countries expressing their commitment to enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors, including trade, technology, innovation, education, and cultural exchange.
The recognition is being viewed as another milestone in India’s growing diplomatic influence and its emergence as a leading force in shaping global dialogue and cooperation.
16, Jun 2026
Navitas Solar Announces Rs. 1,500 Crore Integrated Manufacturing Expansion in Gujarat with 3.6 GW Cell Line and Pilot Wafer & Ingot Line
Surat, June 16 : Navitas Solar, one of India’s solar manufacturers, today announced a proposed investment of approximately INR 1,500 crore towards an integrated manufacturing expansion in Gujarat. The project includes a 3.6 GW high-efficiency solar cell manufacturing facility and a pilot wafer & ingot line, marking a significant step in the company’s strategy to deepen backward integration and strengthen India’s domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem.
The proposed expansion is designed to enhance domestic value addition, reduce long-term dependence on imported components and support India’s broader clean energy and manufacturing ambitions. The project will be developed in phases, with Phase I targeted for commissioning in 2027 and subsequent capacity additions planned thereafter, subject to market conditions and project readiness.
As part of the project, civil work covering over 10 lakh sq. ft. is currently underway. Navitas Solar has put in place the required technology tie-up for the planned manufacturing line and appointed senior leadership to spearhead the new business vertical. The company is further strengthening its project execution, manufacturing, technology and quality functions with experienced talent to support the successful implementation of the expansion and its long-term growth plans.
The cell manufacturing facility is being designed as a highly automated and future-ready production platform capable of supporting next-generation solar technologies. The manufacturing line will be developed with upgradeability and flexibility to adapt to evolving technology pathways, including potential transitions to advanced cell architectures, subject to market and technology readiness.
Along with this investment, a strategic pilot wafer & ingot line is planned in 2027 as a part of its long-term roadmap for deeper backward integration. The initiative is expected to strengthen internal capabilities, enhance technology understanding and support future localization requirements across the solar value chain.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Vineet Mittal, Director Finance & Strategy, Navitas Solar, said,
“India’s clean energy transition requires strong domestic manufacturing capabilities across the entire solar value chain. Our planned integrated manufacturing expansion in Gujarat is a strategic step towards building a future-ready platform across modules, cells and deeper backward integration. With civil work underway, technology partnership in place, key government approvals secured and senior leadership appointed to drive the project, we are progressing with a clear focus on execution, quality, innovation and long-term competitiveness. This expansion reflects our commitment to strengthening India’s manufacturing ecosystem, enhancing supply-chain resilience and supporting the country’s vision of becoming a global clean energy manufacturing hub.”
The expansion comes at a pivotal time for India’s solar sector, following the Government’s implementation of the ALMM List-II framework for solar PV cells. As domestic module manufacturing capacity continues to expand, the availability of approved domestic solar cells is becoming a critical factor for project planning, supply-chain security and long-term competitiveness. Navitas Solar’s proposed 3.6 GW cell facility is aligned with this national policy direction and is expected to support the industry’s transition towards higher domestic value addition, reduced import dependence and stronger clean energy self-reliance.
The project is expected to generate nearly 1,000 employment opportunities across manufacturing, engineering, operations, project execution, quality assurance and research functions, while also creating significant indirect employment across logistics, ancillary industries and supporting services. Navitas Solar currently has an annual solar module manufacturing capacity of 3 GW and offers a comprehensive portfolio of Mono PERC and high-efficiency TOPCon modules ranging from 40W to 720W. The company also has upstream integration through its subsidiary, Navitas Alpha Renewables Pvt. Ltd., which manufactures solar encapsulants, further strengthening the group’s position across the solar manufacturing ecosystem.
With this planned Rs. 1,500 crore investment, Navitas Solar is taking a significant step towards becoming a more integrated, technology-driven and future-ready solar manufacturer, reinforcing its long-term commitment to innovation, self-reliance and India’s clean energy future.
16, Jun 2026
IMD Issues 5-Day Thunderstorm Warning for Odisha; Heat & Humidity to Continue
Bhubaneswar, June 16: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms across several parts of Odisha over the next five days, issuing warnings for lightning, gusty winds, and intermittent rainfall in multiple districts.
An Orange Warning has been issued for June 17 in several districts, with wind speeds expected to reach 50–60 kmph in isolated areas. The IMD said similar thunderstorm activity is likely to continue till June 21 under a Yellow Warning across most parts of the state.
Despite the rainfall activity, hot and humid conditions are expected to persist, particularly in coastal and southern Odisha, while isolated heatwave conditions may also occur in parts of western Odisha.
Authorities have advised people to remain cautious during thunderstorms, avoid outdoor exposure during lightning activity, and take necessary safety precautions. Farmers, fishermen, and outdoor workers have been specifically urged to stay alert.
Officials said the changing weather pattern may bring temporary relief but will not fully reduce heat stress in the region over the coming days.
16, Jun 2026
‘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.
16, Jun 2026
Flir Thermal Imaging Helps Reveal Hidden Text in Ancient Herculaneum Papyri
Flir thermal imaging technology is helping researchers in Italy unlock hidden text from the Herculaneum papyri, a unique collection of ancient manuscripts carbonized during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
June 16: Flir thermal imaging technology is helping researchers in Italy unlock hidden text from the Herculaneum papyri, a unique collection of ancient manuscripts carbonized during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Using pulsed thermography that leverages the 2.775 MHz fast analog lock-in input port offered by advanced Flir thermal imaging cameras, scientists are recovering writing previously invisible to the naked eye while also gaining new insight into the fragile internal structure of the documents. All images are sourced from S. Ceccarelli et al., SciRep 15, 34466 (2025).
The vital project is being led by researchers at the Institute of Heritage Science, part of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), who are exploring non-destructive ways to study and preserve what remains the only surviving library from the ancient Greco-Roman world.
Discovered during excavations in the 18th century at the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, the scrolls survived the volcanic eruption through carbonization caused by intense heat and burial beneath volcanic material. While this extraordinary process preserved the manuscripts, it also created major challenges for historians and conservators attempting to read and protect them.
Many of the papyri were mechanically unrolled centuries ago and mounted to supporting boards. However, the resulting fragments are extremely fragile, often heavily layered, and in many cases almost unreadable.
Conventional Imaging Falls Short
One of the principal challenges facing researchers is that both the carbonized papyrus substrate and the ink are black, making differentiation extremely difficult using conventional imaging methods as the contrast in the visible range is lost. Other more sophisticated techniques like X-ray can work, particularly in combination with artificial intelligence, but are more complex and expensive, requiring transportation of the papyri to special labs where these techniques are available.
To address these challenges, conservators turned to pulsed thermography, a technique that combines controlled light excitation with high-speed thermal imaging. The method works by illuminating the papyrus with a short pulse of light and recording the resulting thermal response over time.
Surface inscriptions become visible almost immediately in the first few infrared frames after excitation because the ink absorbs light differently to the surrounding papyrus material. As heat propagates through the sample over the following seconds, deeper structural details and underlying features begin to emerge. This time-based thermal behavior provides researchers with a way to distinguish writing from substrate material.
Advanced Thermal Imaging
Central to the project is the use of Flir X-Series thermal imaging cameras. Combining high-speed, high-sensitivity infrared imaging with advanced thermal management capabilities, the cameras are ideal for scientific and research environments where precision and data integrity are vital.
Operating in the mid-wave infrared spectrum, Flir X-Series cameras enabled researchers to capture rapid thermal events with exceptional sensitivity, allowing subtle temperature differences between inked and non-inked areas of the papyri to become visible during pulsed thermography analysis. The X-Series features a fast analog lock-in input port designed to receive external reference signals, enabling high-speed thermal analysis at a sampling rate of 2.775 MHz. This capability allows researchers to detect faint signals or minute temperature differences in materials.
The researchers used dual flash lamps to generate controlled excitation while limiting temperature increases within the papyri to 2-3°C, well below any level considered harmful to the ancient material. Special filtering systems also prevented ultraviolet exposure and minimized unwanted infrared reflections.
According to the project team, the high sensitivity, spatial resolution and advanced recording capabilities of the Flir X-Series proved particularly important when identifying fine thermal contrasts and preserving image clarity throughout the acquisition process.
The ability to stream and record thermal data continuously without dropped frames also supported detailed post-processing and analysis using Flir Research Studio software.
Notably, the method remains entirely non-contact and non-destructive, a critical requirement when working with fragile cultural heritage artefacts that cannot be physically manipulated or removed from their historical supports.
Beyond Text Recovery
While the primary objective of the project involves revealing hidden text, pulsed thermography also provides valuable structural information for conservation specialists.
As heat diffuses through the papyrus over longer timescales, the thermal data begins to reveal features such as fiber patterns, overlapping layers, and adhesion points between the papyrus and its supporting board. These details help conservators better understand the physical condition of the manuscripts and identify areas where deterioration or detachment may be occurring.
The ability to investigate both writing and substrate morphology from the same thermal dataset provides significant advantages for restoration planning and long-term preservation strategies. The technique is particularly useful because some regions of the manuscripts contain multiple compressed layers created during the historical unrolling process. In these areas, underlying sections remained attached rather than separating cleanly, creating a complex structure that is difficult to analyze using traditional imaging methods.
The researchers also noted that some competing technologies can involve bulkier equipment, more restrictive positioning requirements, or lower image definition when examining layered material.
Future Potential
One of the remaining challenges involves identifying text located on the reverse side of the papyri or buried within heavily layered sections where only limited excitation light can penetrate. Although possible to detect residual thermal information from deeper layers, the resulting signals become increasingly weak and blurred as heat diffuses through the material.
To help overcome these limitations, the CNR team is now exploring the use of AI-based processing techniques. AI-assisted analysis could further enhance differentiation between the ink and the papyrus substrate, potentially improving readability and supporting future interpretation of the texts.
Whatever the future holds, the team is confident that pulsed thermography is set to become an increasingly valuable complementary tool alongside other advanced heritage science techniques. This exciting project has demonstrated the growing role of Flir thermal imaging technology in scientific research and preservation. By combining high-speed thermal acquisition with advanced analysis methods, researchers are now able to study some of the world’s most fragile historical artefacts in ways that were previously impossible.
16, Jun 2026
India’s Culinary Stars Shine at NDTV Food Awards 2026
New Delhi, June 16: The NDTV Food Awards 2026 celebrated some of the finest names in India’s food and hospitality industry, honouring chefs, restaurants, restaurateurs, institutions and professionals who are shaping the way India eats, discovers and experiences food.
The awards brought together the many worlds that define India’s food story today – iconic restaurants, celebrated chefs, ambitious new openings, regional excellence, contemporary dining spaces, landmark institutions and professionals whose work continues to raise the bar for the industry.
This year’s winners reflected the creativity, enterprise, imagination and depth that have made India one of the most exciting food destinations in the world. They also captured the growing confidence of Indian food – rooted in tradition, but increasingly contemporary, experimental and global in its ambition.
What gives the NDTV Food Awards their distinctive credibility is the integrity of the process. Every award was decided on merit alone, with the jury process kept independent of commercial considerations, partnerships or external influence.
For NDTV, this principle is fundamental. In a landscape where recognition must earn its credibility, the NDTV Food Awards have been built on merit, discernment and trust. Commercial partnerships and event associations have remained entirely separate from the jury process and award decisions.
Over the years, the NDTV Food Awards have become an important platform for recognising the people and places that are shaping India’s food culture with originality, consistency and craft. The awards celebrate excellence across the industry while keeping the focus firmly on contribution, credibility and the quality of work.
NDTV has also been privileged to chronicle India’s changing relationship with food through iconic shows and formats such as Zaika India Ka, anchored by Vinod Dua, Highway On My Plate, Café Maria, Gourmet Central and many others. The NDTV Food Awards are an extension of that journey.
The NDTV Food Awards 2026 were adjudicated by an eminent jury chaired by Vir Sanghvi. The jury included Sourish Bhattacharyya, Asma Khan, Anindya Sundar Basu, Dr. Shabnam Banu, Ananya Banerjee, Marryam H Reshii, Kurush Dalal and Roshni Bajaj Sanghvi.
Speaking on the occasion, Rahul Kanwal, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, NDTV, said: ‘India’s food landscape is going through a remarkable moment of creativity, confidence and reinvention. The NDTV Food Awards celebrate the people and places that are adding depth, imagination and distinction to this journey. This year’s winners represent the very best of craft, originality and enterprise across the industry. For us, credibility is non-negotiable. These awards cannot be bought. They stand for merit, integrity and trust. At NDTV, we are proud to recognise the chefs, restaurants and institutions that continue to make India’s food story richer and more exciting.’
Vir Sanghvi, Jury Chair, NDTV Food Awards, added: ‘The winners of the NDTV Food Awards 2026 capture the remarkable diversity and ambition of India’s food culture. They reflect excellence, originality, consistency and a deep respect for craft. Together, they represent the richness of India’s culinary landscape and the exciting direction in which it is moving.’
The winners of the NDTV Food Awards 2026 represented the full breadth of India’s food and hospitality landscape.
Baoshuan at The Oberoi New Delhi was named Best Chinese Restaurant of the Year, while Izumi, Goa, won Best Japanese Restaurant of the Year. Seefah, Mumbai, was recognised as Best Asian Restaurant of the Year.
In the Indian restaurant categories, Chor Bizarre, Delhi, was named Best Indian Restaurant of the Year for North Indian cuisine, while Karavalli, Bengaluru, won Best Indian Restaurant of the Year for South Indian cuisine. Ethnic Table, Dimapur, was recognised as Best Indian Restaurant of the Year in the Regional category, and Sienna, Kolkata, was named Best Indian Restaurant of the Year in the Modern category.
Avartana at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, was named Most Innovative Indian Restaurant of the Year.
Americano, Mumbai, was named Best Italian Restaurant of the Year, while The Table, Mumbai, won Best European Restaurant of the Year. Nisaba by Chef Manish Mehrotra was recognised as Best Opening of the Year. Paris My Love, Delhi, won Best Bakery & Patisserie of the Year, and The Qube at The Leela Palace, New Delhi was named Best All-Day Dining Restaurant of the Year.
The awards also honoured India’s much-loved food institutions. Aminia, Kolkata, was named Historic Restaurant of India, while Bukhara at ITC Maurya, Delhi, received the honour of Legendary Restaurant of India.
Among individual honours, Mirelle Pingfu of Masque was named F&B Professional of the Year. Papa’s, Mumbai, won Best Restaurant of the Year. Himanshu Saini was recognised as Chef of the Year – International, Doma Wang was named Best Restaurateur of the Year, and Chef Manu Chandra was honoured as Chef of the Year.
The Outstanding Contribution to Indian Food honours went to Chef Kunal Kapur, recognising his influence on the way Indian food is celebrated, interpreted and taken to the world.
As India’s food culture continues to evolve with new ideas, deeper regional pride and a growing appetite for originality, the NDTV Food Awards 2026 celebrated the people and places giving this movement its strongest expression.
NDTV Food Awards 2026 Winner list:
- Best Chinese Restaurant of the Year: Baoshuan, The Oberoi, New Delhi
- Best European Restaurant of the Year: The Table, Mumbai
- Best Asian Restaurant of the Year: Seefah, Mumbai
- Best Italian Restaurant of the Year: Americano, Mumbai
- Best Japanese Restaurant of the Year: Izumi, Goa
- Best Indian Restaurant of the Year (North Indian): Chor Bizarre, Delhi
- Best Indian Restaurant of the Year (South Indian): Karavalli, Bengaluru
- Best Indian Restaurant of the Year (Regional): Ethnic Table, Dimapur
- Best Indian Restaurant of the Year (Modern): Sienna, Kolkata
- Best Opening of the Year: Nisaba by Chef Manish Mehrotra
- Best Bakery & Patisserie of the Year: Paris My Love, Delhi
- Best All-Day Dining of the Year: The Qube, Hotel Leela, New Delhi
- Most Innovative Indian Restaurant of the Year: Avartana, ITC Grand Chola, Chennai
- Historic Restaurant of India: Aminia, Kolkata
- Legendary Restaurant of India: Bukhara, ITC Maurya, Delhi
- F&B Professional of the Year: Mirelle Pingfu, Masque
- Best Restaurant of the Year: Papa’s, Mumbai
- Chef of the Year (International): Chef Himanshu Saini
- Best Restaurateur of the Year: Doma Wang
- Outstanding Contribution to Indian Food: Chef Kunal Kapur
- Chef of the Year: Chef Manu Chandra
16, Jun 2026
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
16, Jun 2026
AVer Wins GHP Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Awards 2026 as Best Telehealth Communication Technology Solutions
Taipei, Taiwan – June 16, 2026: AVer Information Inc., an award-winning provider of AI audio-video solutions, has been honored as the “Best Telehealth Communication Technology Solutions” at the prestigious Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Awards 2026 presented by UK‑based Global Health & Pharma (GHP). The international accolade recognizes AVer’s commitment to advancing remote healthcare communication for patients and caregivers worldwide.
This achievement was made possible by AVer’s comprehensive portfolio of medical grade cameras, engineered to meet the demanding needs of clinical settings. From teleconsultation and virtual rounding to patient monitoring and cross-site medical collaboration, AVer’s technologies help healthcare teams communicate more clearly through reliable video, audio, and intelligent clinical support.
A prime example of AVer’s ongoing telehealth innovation is the MD331UI Medical Grade PTZ Camera, the newest addition to its line of medical grade cameras. Built with 4K clarity, 30X optical zoom, and embedded two-way audio, the MD331UI is designed to support more natural and effective communication between patients and remote care teams. Its latest Audio Processing AI captures the patient’s voice clearly while minimizing environmental background noise, helping clinicians hear every word with greater focus during virtual rounding and remote consultations. To help care teams stay focused on patient communication rather than equipment operation, the MD331UI also features effortless camera positioning, allowing nurses to manually fine-tune1 the camera’s angle without recalibration. With 12–24V wide voltage input, optional Wi-Fi® connectivity, and image stabilization, the camera can be seamlessly integrated with battery-powered medical carts, enabling flexible deployment as part of a complete telehealth solution.
Also worth noting are two well‑established models in AVer’s medical grade cameras line — the MD720UIS and MD330UI. They deliver dependable 4K video, clear audio, and straightforward integration for telemedicine, virtual rounding, and telesitting. Their proven reliability and simple deployment have made them go‑to options for providers seeking trustworthy telehealth tools, and both are Zoom‑certified for seamless collaboration on a widely used platform.
“We are proud that our solutions are helping medical teams provide safer, smarter, and more connected patient care in hospitals and clinics around the globe,” said AVer President David Kuo. “This award fuels our commitment to innovate further, ensuring that every caregiver, no matter where they are, can deliver the highest standard of care with confidence.”
16, Jun 2026
Knauf India Launches Advanced Drywall Solution ‘Knauf Drystar’ for Moisture-Prone and Wet Environments
New Delhi, June 16 : Knauf India, the world’s No. 1 company in Drywall & Ceiling Solutions, has launched ‘Knauf Drystar’, a specialised gypsum board system engineered for humid and wet environments, addressing the requirements of the modern construction projects which increasingly demand building materials that are able to resist mould growth, withstand moisture, and maintain structural performance over a period of time.
Knauf Drystar is a high-performance fibre-reinforced gypsum board that has been developed for usage in interior dry construction systems which are exposed to moisture, high humidity, and intermittent water contact. The board blends a moisture-resistant glass-fleece surface with a specially engineered gypsum core, allowing advanced protection against mould formation and water absorption.
Knauf Drystar features a low-level of water absorption of below 3% in combination with a high resistance to mould. It is classified according to EN 15283-1 as GM-FH1IR, signifying enhanced fire performance, increased surface hardness, less water absorption, and improved strength. It carries a fire classification of A2-s1,d0, turning it into a non-combustible building material which is suitable for projects that require stringent fire safety standards.
Speaking about the launch, Mr. Sumit Bidani, CEO of Knauf India, said,
“Modern construction demands materials not only delivering durability and performance but also addressing evolving concerns such as hygiene, fire safety, moisture management, sustainability and safety. With Knauf Drystar’s launch, we are introducing an advanced drywall solution that is engineered specifically for wet-area and high-humidity applications. Drystar amalgamates superior mould and moisture resistance with the flexibility, speed and efficiency of modern dry construction systems, enabling developers, architects and contractors to build with greater confidence.”
Use Case Scenarios:
Knauf Drystar is suitable for various scenarios such as commercial and residential washrooms where ceilings and walls are exposed to moisture on a regular basis, making it an ideal base for waterproofing systems and ceramic tiles. It has usability in hospitality projects and hotels, which often require ceiling and wall systems in spas, bathrooms, wellness facilities, helping to maintain long-term performance while lowering the risk of mould growth in high-humidity environments. Again, hospitals, diagnostic centres and clinics necessitate moisture-resistant and hygienic interiors. Knauf Drystar’s mould-resistant properties offer support to cleaner indoor environments in treatment zones and wash areas. Areas which are exposed to elevated humidity levels and occasional water splashes can also benefit from the moisture resistance property of Knauf Drystar and its robust surface characteristics. Besides, Knauf Drystar can be used for suspended ceilings in semi-exterior areas such as entrance canopies, covered walkways, balconies and others. Airports, schools, public infrastructure projects, shopping centres, can use Drystar in changing rooms, washrooms, and other utility areas where moisture resistance and durability play a critical role.
Product Specification:
Knauf Drystar includes the following features:
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Enhanced Mould & Termites Resistance
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High resistance to moisture and humidity
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Low water absorption
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Non-combustible construction material
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Easy installation, similar to conventional gypsum boards
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Flexible and bendable for curved applications
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Suitable substrate for waterproofing membranes, tiles, and sealants
The launch of Knauf Drystar reinforces Knauf’s commitment towards bringing high-performance, globally proven building solutions to the Indian market and support the development of future-ready spaces across hospitality, residential, commercial and healthcare sectors.
