7, Jul 2026
Indonesia Honours PM Modi with Highest Civilian and Military Award ‘Bintang Adipurna’
Jakarta, July 7: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has announced the conferment of the country’s highest honour, the ‘Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia’, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and global cooperation.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/narendramodi
Instituted in 1959, the Bintang Adipurna is Indonesia’s highest civilian and military distinction, awarded for exceptional service and achievements. The honour adds to the growing list of international recognitions received by Prime Minister Modi during his tenure.
The award was announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Indonesia, where he held bilateral discussions with President Prabowo Subianto to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
The talks focused on expanding cooperation in key areas, including trade, energy, maritime security, defence, and strategic partnerships. Both leaders expressed commitment to deepening ties and enhancing collaboration for mutual growth.
Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome in Jakarta, where he was personally received by President Subianto. The visit also included discussions on strengthening cultural connections between India and Indonesia, including a planned visit to the historic Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta.
The latest honour reflects the growing diplomatic engagement between India and Indonesia and highlights the importance of the partnership between the two countries across economic, strategic, and cultural sectors.
Indonesia is the first stop of Prime Minister Modi’s three-nation tour, which also includes visits to Australia and New Zealand for high-level engagements.
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- By Neel Achary
7, Jul 2026
Amit Shah Launches Delhi’s 70 Lakh Tree Plantation Drive to Boost Green Cover
New Delhi, July 7: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched Delhi’s ambitious 70 lakh tree plantation campaign, aimed at increasing green cover and improving the city’s environmental conditions.
The large-scale plantation drive seeks to promote ecological conservation, reduce pollution levels, and enhance urban greenery across the national capital. The initiative will involve participation from government departments, local bodies, institutions, and citizens to ensure wider community involvement.
Addressing the launch event, Shah highlighted the importance of environmental protection and collective efforts in tackling challenges such as air pollution and climate change. He emphasised the need for sustained plantation and maintenance efforts to create a healthier environment for future generations.
The campaign is part of broader measures to strengthen Delhi’s green infrastructure and encourage public participation in environmental conservation.
Officials said the success of the initiative will depend not only on planting trees but also on ensuring their long-term care and survival through coordinated efforts among various stakeholders.
7, Jul 2026
Delhi-NCR Flex Space Demand Hits Record High in Q2 2026
New Delhi, July 7: Delhi-NCR recorded its highest-ever quarterly uptake of flexible workspace solutions in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting strong demand for agile office spaces among businesses across sectors.
The surge in flex space adoption has been driven by the growing preference for flexible leasing models, expansion plans of companies, and the increasing need for ready-to-use, scalable workplace solutions. Startups, enterprises, and multinational companies are increasingly turning to managed workspaces to improve operational efficiency and support evolving work models.
Industry experts said the record performance highlights the changing dynamics of commercial real estate, with businesses prioritising flexibility, cost optimisation, and employee-focused work environments.
The growth of flexible office spaces in Delhi-NCR also underscores the region’s expanding business ecosystem, strong infrastructure, and growing attractiveness for domestic and global companies.
With hybrid work models becoming more prominent and businesses seeking adaptable workplace solutions, the flexible workspace segment is expected to maintain its growth momentum in the coming quarters.
7, Jul 2026
Sambalpur University Researchers Develop Promising Herbal Anti-Cancer Formulation from Gandhamardan Medicinal Plants
Bhubaneswar, July 7 (UDN): Researchers at Sambalpur University have reported a significant breakthrough in cancer research after developing a polyherbal anti-cancer formulation derived from medicinal plants found in Odisha’s Gandhamardan Hills. The formulation has demonstrated encouraging results in pre-clinical animal studies, paving the way for the next phase of human clinical trials.
Representational image
The research, undertaken by the Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics in collaboration with the University’s Research Centre of Excellence, began in 2019 with an extensive scientific investigation into the medicinal properties of plants traditionally used in Ayurvedic and indigenous healthcare systems. Nearly 50 medicinal plant species native to the Gandhamardan hills were screened before researchers shortlisted five plants with the most promising anti-cancer properties to develop the formulation.
According to the research team, laboratory experiments and animal studies yielded highly encouraging outcomes. In pre-clinical trials, laboratory mice with experimentally induced tumours were treated with the herbal formulation for around 35 days, resulting in the complete disappearance of the tumours. Researchers also observed that, unlike conventional chemotherapy, the formulation did not produce any significant adverse effects during the study.
Head of the Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Prof. Pradeep Nayak, said the successful pre-clinical findings have laid the foundation for human clinical evaluation.
“An MoU has been signed with the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS). The formulation will now undergo clinical trials on cancer patients. If the outcomes are successful, it could mark a major advancement in cancer treatment,” he said.
The upcoming clinical studies are expected to be conducted jointly with the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under the Ministry of AYUSH and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar. Researchers stressed that the formulation’s safety and therapeutic effectiveness can only be scientifically established after rigorous human clinical trials.
The project was carried out using advanced laboratory facilities at Sambalpur University with active participation from doctoral scholars and research scientists. Cancer cell lines required for the study were sourced from the National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, enabling detailed laboratory investigations into the formulation’s anti-cancer activity.
Explaining the research methodology, PhD scholar Isara Nayak said the team selected the final five medicinal plants after evaluating their ability to destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy cells. Another researcher, Sekh Abdul, noted that multiple cancer cell samples obtained from NCCS have supported further laboratory validation of the formulation.
Researchers believe the herbal formulation has the potential to address one of the major limitations of existing cancer therapies. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which often damage healthy tissues along with cancer cells, the new formulation is expected to selectively target cancerous cells while minimising harmful side effects. However, they cautioned that these findings must be confirmed through comprehensive clinical studies.
If the forthcoming human trials prove successful, the polyherbal formulation could emerge as an affordable and effective complementary option for cancer treatment, while highlighting the immense medicinal value of the biodiversity-rich Gandhamardan Hills and the growing contribution of Odisha’s scientific community to healthcare innovation.
7, Jul 2026
Dilip Suryavanshi: Building an Infrastructure Enterprise Through Four Decades of Execution Excellence
From a small civil contractor in Madhya Pradesh to leading one of India’s diversified infrastructure EPC companies, Dilip Suryavanshi’s journey reflects a sustained focus on execution, operational discipline and long-term growth.
Bhopal| July 07: Over the last four decades, Dilip Suryavanshi, Chairman and Managing Director of Dilip Buildcon Limited (DBL), has transformed a modest civil contracting business into one of India’s leading infrastructure engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) companies.
Beginning his entrepreneurial journey in 1987 with small civil construction projects in Madhya Pradesh, Suryavanshi focused on developing strong in-house execution capabilities, consistently reinvesting in equipment, technology and operational systems rather than relying extensively on subcontracting. This execution-led approach has remained central to the company’s growth strategy.
A civil engineering graduate from Government Engineering College, Jabalpur, Suryavanshi entered the construction industry with hands-on experience in project execution, workforce management and site operations. These formative years laid the foundation for the company’s emphasis on disciplined project delivery and operational excellence.
As India’s infrastructure sector expanded, Dilip Buildcon steadily evolved from a regional contractor into a nationally recognised EPC organisation. Following its corporate restructuring during the mid-2000s and its public listing in 2016, the company further strengthened its governance framework, financial capabilities and execution capacity.
Today, Dilip Buildcon has established a diversified presence across highways, metro rail systems, tunnels, irrigation projects, mining, airports, industrial infrastructure, renewable energy, power transmission and other complex infrastructure segments.
Under Suryavanshi’s leadership, the company is now advancing its DBL 2.0 strategy, aimed at broadening its infrastructure portfolio beyond traditional road construction while leveraging its established engineering expertise and execution capabilities across emerging sectors.
His leadership philosophy continues to centre on operational control, equipment ownership, disciplined capital allocation and long-term value creation—principles that have helped position the company among India’s established infrastructure developers.
Beyond business, Suryavanshi has also contributed to the industry’s development through his long association with the Madhya Pradesh Builders Association and has been recognised for his contributions to India’s infrastructure sector.
As India continues to invest in large-scale infrastructure development, Dilip Buildcon’s evolution reflects how consistent execution, engineering capability and long-term planning can shape a regional enterprise into a nationally recognised infrastructure organisation.
7, Jul 2026
KIIT Founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta Honoured with Prestigious AAPI Award in the US
Bhubaneswar, July 7 (UDN): Eminent educationist and social reformer Dr. Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT, KIMS and KISS, has been conferred the prestigious AAPI Award 2026 by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to social service, humanitarian initiatives and strengthening India–US relations.
The award was presented during AAPICON 2026, the 44th Annual Convention and Congress of AAPI, held in Tampa, Florida, from July 2 to 5. The honour was bestowed by AAPI President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty in the presence of nearly 3,000 physicians and healthcare professionals from across the United States.
One of the largest and most influential organisations of physicians of Indian origin, AAPI represents more than 120,000 Indian-origin doctors in the United States. The association recognised Dr. Samanta for his visionary leadership in expanding access to education and healthcare, his philanthropic initiatives for underprivileged communities and his continued efforts to strengthen collaboration between India and the United States.
According to the organisers, the award also acknowledged Dr. Samanta’s valuable support to the Global Health Summit 2026 and his sustained commitment to humanitarian causes through institutions such as the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS).
Addressing the gathering after receiving the honour, Dr. Samanta urged members of AAPI to contribute to India’s healthcare sector by volunteering their expertise. He appealed to Indian-origin physicians to devote a few days each month to providing medical consultation and healthcare services in India, particularly in underserved regions.
Responding positively to the proposal, AAPI leaders expressed their willingness to encourage member physicians to participate in such initiatives, with many indicating their readiness to spend between one and two weeks annually offering voluntary medical services in India.
The latest recognition adds to Dr. Samanta’s long list of national and international honours and highlights the global impact of his work in education, healthcare, social empowerment and community development.
7, Jul 2026
Supertails Appoints Dr. Prathmesh Deshmukh as Chief Veterinary Officer to Build Standardised Pet Healthcare System in India
Bengaluru, July 07: Supertails, India’s comprehensive pet care platform, today announced the appointment of Dr. Prathmesh Deshmukh as its Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO). Dr. Deshmukh will lead clinical training, define standards of care, and drive the medical vision behind Supertails’ rapidly growing network of clinics across the country ensuring that pet parents receive the same rigorously trained, consistent standard of veterinary care no matter which Supertails clinic they walk into, in any city.
Dr. Deshmukh brings over 15 years of clinical and academic experience in veterinary neurology and neuroimaging. A graduate of Bombay Veterinary College, he trained further at the University of Sydney and the European School for Advanced Veterinary Studies (ESAVS). In 2014, he co-founded Acumed Veterinary Specialty with his wife, Dr. Deepti Deshpande – India’s first and only AiCVIM Cardiology Diplomate building it into a practice that combined specialist neurology referrals including MRI-led diagnostics and advanced procedures with everyday veterinary care such as vaccinations, check-ups and surgery, all under one roof.
He has been Lead Speaker at the Indian Society of Veterinary Medicine (ISVM) Conference and Co-Investigator on the Indian Canine Epilepsy Project with North Carolina State University. He is also the co-founder of “Antibiotic Vigilantes,” an initiative raising antibiotic resistance awareness among Indian veterinary professionals.
Dr. Deshmukh first engaged with Supertails as a consultant, training the clinical team, before taking on a deeper role structuring its healthcare division. As CVO, his mandate is to build a uniform standard of care across every Supertails clinic and design the clinical protocols underpinning the company’s expansion into new cities.
Speaking on his appointment, Dr. Prathmesh Deshmukh, Chief Veterinary Officer, Supertails, said: “I’d rather build veterinarians than simply employ them. A place that looks after its doctors will always look after its patients better, and this role gives me the scale to shape how medicine is practised across every Supertails clinic. Making excellent, consistent care the default rather than the exception.”
Vineet Khanna, Co-founder, Supertails, said: “For a pet parent, the hardest part of an emergency isn’t finding a clinic, it’s not knowing what kind of care they’ll get once they’re inside it. Dr. Prathmesh has spent over a decade building and mentoring in veterinary neurology, and more recently helping us structure our clinical teams. With him defining our protocols and training every veterinarian who wears a Supertails badge, a pet parent can walk into any Supertails clinic, in any city, and trust that their pet will get the same rigorous, fear-free standard of care. As we grow beyond Bengaluru, that trust is non-negotiable.”
7, Jul 2026
Gujarat Health Centres Clear 5 Lakh Unused Items in Cleanliness Drive
Gandhinagar, July 7: Health facilities across Gujarat have removed more than five lakh unused and obsolete items as part of a statewide cleanliness campaign aimed at improving hygiene and strengthening healthcare management.
The drive focused on clearing unnecessary materials, outdated equipment, and unused resources from hospitals and health centres to create cleaner and more organised spaces for patients and healthcare workers.
Officials said the initiative will help improve resource utilisation, optimise available space, and enhance the overall functioning of healthcare facilities across the state.
The campaign is part of Gujarat’s efforts to promote better maintenance practices and improve the quality of healthcare services for citizens.
7, Jul 2026
TN Upgrades Pongal Dhotis and Sarees Scheme for 2027
Chennai, July 7: The Tamil Nadu government has announced a revamp of its free Pongal dhotis and sarees scheme for 2027, with a focus on improved fabric quality, new colour options, and updated designs.
The upgraded garments will be provided to beneficiaries as part of the annual Pongal welfare initiative, aimed at ensuring better quality products while continuing support for eligible families across the state.
Officials said the changes are being introduced to enhance beneficiary satisfaction and modernise the traditional festive scheme. The government is also working on production and distribution arrangements to ensure timely supply ahead of Pongal 2027.
The initiative continues Tamil Nadu’s efforts to combine welfare support with encouragement for the textile sector through large-scale garment production and distribution.
7, Jul 2026
Spain Knock Portugal Out of FIFA World Cup 2026 as Ronaldo’s Campaign Ends in Round of 16
July 7, 2026: Spain advanced to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16, bringing an end to Cristiano Ronaldo’s campaign in the tournament.
The closely contested encounter saw both teams battle for control, with neither side able to break the deadlock during regular time. Spain finally found the breakthrough in the 91st minute when substitute Mikel Merino scored a late winner to seal victory and send Portugal out of the competition.
Despite Portugal’s efforts to find an equaliser, Spain’s defence held firm in the closing moments to secure a place in the quarter-finals. The defeat marked a disappointing exit for Ronaldo-led Portugal in front of a packed crowd in Dallas.
The match also added another chapter to Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebrated international career, as Portugal’s World Cup journey came to an end after a hard-fought knockout clash.
Spain will now move forward with renewed confidence as they continue their pursuit of the World Cup title, while Portugal bow out after a determined campaign on the global stage.
