18, May 2026
VST Tillers Tractors Limited reports 25% revenue growth with strong operational performance
Bengaluru, May 18: VST Tillers Tractors Limited (VST), India’s leading farm equipment manufacturer, today announced its financial results for the 4th quarter and the financial year, showcasing continued growth momentum and operational resilience.
Financial Highlights – FY2025-26
- Revenue from operations increased to ₹1,240 crore, registering a robust growth of 25% compared to ₹995 crore in FY2024-25, marking new milestone in the Company’s revenue growth journey.
· Operational EBITDA increased significantly to ₹166 crore from ₹70.7 crore in the previous year. Operational EBITDA margins improved by 221 basis points to 13.38% from 11.17% last year. Operational EBITDA is computed after excluding other income and fair value gain/(loss) on investments.
- Profit After Tax (PAT) stood at ₹106 crore as against ₹94 crore in FY2024-25. Excluding the impact of fair value gain/(loss) on investments, adjusted PAT increased by 61% to ₹113 crore from ₹70 crore in the previous year.
- The Company generated strong operating cash flows of ₹132 crore during the year compared to ₹76 crore in the previous year, supported by improved operational performance, efficient working capital management, and a strong balance sheet with healthy cash reserves.
Q4 FY2025-26 Highlights
· For Q4 FY2025-26, the Company reported revenue from operations of ₹328 crore, registering a growth of 9% compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
· Operational EBITDA for the quarter increased to ₹46.82 crore from ₹40.37 crore in Q4 FY2024-25, with EBITDA margins improving to 14.2% from 13.4% in the corresponding period last year.
· Reported Profit After Tax (PAT) for the quarter stood at ₹5 crore as against ₹25 crore in Q4 FY2024-25. Excluding the impact of fair value gain/(loss) on investments, adjusted PAT increased by 36% to ₹39 crore from ₹28 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
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- By Neel Achary
18, May 2026
The real value of water is felt only when it runs dry: DropTalk 2026
DropTalk 2026, Water Sustainability Summit, Bringing Together Leaders in Water, Climate and Sustainability
Bengaluru, May 18: DropTalk 2026, a two-day summit dedicated to conversations, collaboration and action on water and climate sustainability, was held at Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bengaluru. Hosted by FluxGen Sustainable Technologies, in collaboration with Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Department of Instrumentation & Applied Physics, Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research (ICWaR), Centre for Sustainable Technologies (CST) and OpenWater. The summit is sponsored by Murugappa Water Technology and Solutions (MWTS).
The summit has brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, startups, environmentalists and students to deliberate on innovative and sustainable approaches to water management, climate resilience and environmental stewardship.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Rajeev Gowda highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers to address critical sustainability challenges. He emphasised that Bengaluru possesses the talent, institutions and innovation ecosystem required to emerge as a global hub for research-driven solutions in water and climate sustainability.
The event also featured thought-provoking discussions on the growing challenges of water scarcity, climate change and sustainable resource management. Experts stressed the importance of adopting integrated “One Water” approaches that combine rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, watershed protection, lake rejuvenation and efficient urban water management practices.
Addressing the gathering, Jaytheerth Nadgir underscored the importance of collective responsibility in securing a sustainable future for the next generation. He also highlighted India’s growing leadership in cleantech innovation and the need to recognise and support indigenous solutions emerging from startups, research institutions and industry.
DropTalk 2026 featured a wide range of engaging sessions and immersive experiences, including HydroMingle, Jal Samvaada, Flow Forward, Women in Water, lake walks, technology showcases and discussions on industrial water management and sustainability. One of the key highlights of the summit is the Painting Competition for school students, aimed at inspiring young minds to think creatively about sustainability, water conservation and environmental responsibility.
Dr. Krishna Raj, Professor and Head RBI Chair Professor Centre for Economic Studies and Policy Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) said “every drop of water has value, regardless of whether it comes from rivers, groundwater, rainwater or even wastewater. India urgently needs to redefine and reimagine water management, as climate change and rising demand are creating severe risks to future water availability. We know the price of water, but we often fail to understand its true value. Water is no longer a free resource — it is an economic, social and environmental asset that must be conserved and managed responsibly for future generations,” he observed.
Ganesh Shankar, Founder, FluxGen Sustainable Technologies said, “the real value of water is felt only when it runs dry. Urban India must move from a unidirectional water supply approach to an integrated ‘One Water’ management system that includes rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, lake restoration, watershed protection and efficient consumption practices. Source protection and watershed management are critical for ensuring sustainable water supply to cities like Bengaluru. Governments, industries and citizens must work together to improve water accounting, reduce pollution and promote equitable access to safe drinking water,”
Prof. Rajeev Gowda, former MP and Chair, Bengaluru Research and Innovation Network “Bengaluru has the talent, institutions and industry ecosystem needed to become a global hub for research and innovation. Through the Bengaluru Research and Innovation Network, we want to break silos, build collaborations and create platforms where interdisciplinary ideas can emerge and solve real-world challenges like water sustainability. We cannot allow Bengaluru to face a future of water scarcity. Two years ago, headlines warned that Bengaluru could become the next major city to run dry, but with integrated solutions such as wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting, lake rejuvenation and groundwater recharge, we can build a sustainable water future for the city.”
“Water management requires both innovation and policy alignment. From projects like the KC Valley initiative to apartment-level wastewater treatment and reuse, Karnataka is already moving towards a ‘One Water’ approach, but we need more research-backed ideas and stronger collaboration between academia, policymakers and industry,” he added. According to him, “Water sustainability is not just a policy issue, it is a responsibility we owe to the next generation. I personally believe that we must act today so that we never have to apologise to our children for the environmental challenges they inherit tomorrow,”
Jaytheerth Nadgir, CEO Murugappa Water Technology & Solutions said “India is witnessing a golden phase of innovation in clean technologies. Startups, research institutions and industries are doing remarkable work in areas such as water management, sustainability and cleantech, and it is important that we recognise and celebrate our own achievements. The future of agriculture, sustainability and water conservation are deeply interconnected. If we truly want to improve farmers’ incomes and build a sustainable future, we must focus on the ‘soil to soul’ approach, where responsible management of natural resources becomes central to development,”
18, May 2026
ATONEMO Enters India with Stream Player Launch
New Delhi, May 18 : Swedish audio technology company Atonemo has announced its official entry into the Indian market with the launch of the Streamplayer, a compact audio streamer designed to modernise any speaker system, regardless of brand, age, or type.
To lead its India operations and distribution, Atonemo has partnered with Luxury Personified LLP, one of India’s leading luxury audio and consumer electronics distribution companies.
Developed in Stockholm, Sweden, the Streamplayer is built around a simple idea: music should be easy. The device allows users to seamlessly stream music to any speaker or amplifier using AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect eliminating compatibility barriers between brands and generations of audio equipment.
The Streamplayer transforms wired speakers into modern wireless audio systems while also enabling users to synchronise multiple speakers across different brands into one unified listening experience.
“India is one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving audio markets globally, with consumers increasingly appreciating both design and high-quality sound experiences,” said Leo Ballesteros Garriga, CEO and Founder, Atonemo. “With Luxury Personified LLP as our official distribution partner, we are excited to introduce Streamplayer to Indian consumers who value simplicity, performance, and timeless audio products.”
Founded by childhood friends Leo Ballesteros Garriga and Noah Constantinou, Atonemo was created to simplify the increasingly fragmented world of audio streaming. The company combines Scandinavian design thinking with intuitive technology to create products that put the user experience first.
Speaking about the partnership, Luv Malik, Partner at Luxury Personified LLP, said:
“At Luxury Personified, we are always looking to introduce products that genuinely enhance the consumer experience while bringing innovation to the premium audio category. Atonemo’s Streamplayer is a beautifully designed solution that solves a real consumer problem allowing people to revive and enjoy their existing speakers without being locked into one ecosystem. We are excited to bring this revolutionary product to the Indian market.”
Speaking about the growing opportunity for premium audio in India, Kush Malik, Partner at Luxury Personified LLP, added:
“Today’s consumers are looking for seamless technology that integrates beautifully into their lifestyle while also delivering exceptional performance. Atonemo perfectly combines Scandinavian design with meaningful innovation. Streamplayer has the potential to redefine how Indian consumers experience home audio by giving them the freedom to use and enjoy any speaker they already own.”
The Streamplayer supports high-resolution 24-bit / 192kHz playback, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect. Compatible with active speakers, amplifiers, hi-fi systems, and vintage audio gear, the device is designed to integrate effortlessly into modern homes.
Key Features:
- AirPlay 2
- Google Cast
- Spotify Connect
- Tidal Connect
- 24-bit / 192kHz Audio Playback
- Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity
- 3.5 mm Analog & Optical S/PDIF Output
- Gapless Playback
- Compact Scandinavian Design
- Works with Vintage and Modern Audio Systems
The Atonemo Streamplayer is scheduled to launch in May 2025 and will be available on Amazon India and through authorised premium audio and consumer electronics retailers across the country, managed by Luxury Personified LLP.
18, May 2026
Panic Buying Ends, Petrol Pumps Across Odisha Witness Sharp Drop in Demand
Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): After witnessing an unprecedented rush and panic buying over the past week, petrol pumps across Odisha wore a deserted look on Sunday as fuel demand dropped sharply following the restoration of regular stock supply.
Fuel stations in the Twin City of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, along with several other towns, reported unusually low customer turnout after days of long queues triggered by rumours of a possible fuel shortage. Many pumps that had temporarily run dry due to panic-driven demand were seen operating normally, with staff waiting idly for customers.
Petrol dealers said panic buying, amplified by television reports and viral social media posts, had pushed fuel demand far beyond normal levels, disrupting routine tanker delivery cycles and causing temporary shortages at several outlets. However, the situation stabilised after authorities and dealers assured uninterrupted fuel availability.
Officials of petrol pump associations said a large section of regular customers, who typically purchase fuel in small quantities, had already filled their tanks during the rush, leading to a sharp decline in footfall now. As a result, dealers expect reduced demand to continue for the next few days until fuel consumption returns to normal patterns.
According to dealers, major petrol pumps in Odisha recorded sales significantly below average on Sunday, with some outlets witnessing nearly a 60–70 per cent drop compared to normal daily business.
General Secretary of the All India Utkal Petroleum Dealers’ Association and owner of a fuel station in Bhubaneswar, Sanjay Lath, said the panic had eased after people realised there was no disruption in supply. He noted that fuel sales had dropped considerably as consumers who stocked up earlier are unlikely to revisit pumps immediately.
With supply chains functioning normally and adequate stock available, dealers expressed confidence that the fuel distribution system across the state has returned to stability.
18, May 2026
Understanding Hypertension’s Silent Impact on Heart Health
Jalandhar, May 18 : Most people associate a heart attack with a sudden, dramatic event. What receives far less attention is the years of quiet damage that precede it. Often functioning without any symptoms, hypertension works silently, putting additional pressure on the arteries. Over the years, that sustained pressure quietly restructures the heart in ways that can prove fatal. In India, this is not a distant risk. According to data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), roughly 24% of adult men and 21% of adult women live with hypertension. The numbers tell a story of a condition hiding in plain sight.
On the occasion of World Hypertension Day, Dr VP Sharma, Director and Senior Consultant Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Jalandhar shared expert insight on hypertension, risks of developing cardiac-health issues, symptoms, and treatment.
What Hypertension Does to the Heart
Blood pressure is simply the force blood exerts against artery walls as the heart pumps. Normal blood pressure sits below 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is defined as readings that consistently reach or exceed 130/80 mm Hg. In response, the heart pumps harder to push blood through the arteries. This heightens the risk of developing various cardiac-related issues, including:
•Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: The most direct cardiac consequence of this is left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), in which the walls of the heart’s main pumping chamber become thickened. LVH is an important independent risk factor for diastolic heart failure and sudden cardiac death in hypertensive patients. • Arterial Stiffness: Prolonged high blood pressure also contributes to arterial stiffness, which is the loss of elasticity of the large blood vessels. This diminishes their capacity to absorb the pressure wave generated by each heartbeat.
•Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular heart rhythm that can put you at risk for stroke and other complications.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Hypertension often shows no symptoms, earning it the title “silent killer”. However, very high blood pressure, often exceeding 180/120 mm Hg, can show possible symptoms like:
●Shortness of breath (Dyspnoea)
●Dizziness
●Blurred or tunnel vision
●Nose bleeds (Epistaxis)
●Confusion
How to Manage Hypertension
●Reduce common salt intake in your diet, as sodium can heighten blood pressure
●Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli and carrots to your meals
●Fruits like strawberries, raspberries and blueberries contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation in the inner lining of the blood vessels
●Adding daily options like bananas, oranges, and avocados to your diet can provide potassium to help offset sodium’s effect
●Avoid consuming tobacco products as they are direct contributors to high blood pressure
●Limit alcohol consumption as it can raise blood pressure and worsen cardiovascular risks
●Maintain regular physical activity and try to lose weight
Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and making these lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly reduce the risks of developing cardiac issues.
18, May 2026
Epson urges households to move beyond cartridges and laser printing with new EcoTank range
SYDNEY, May 18— Epson is encouraging Australian households and home office users to rethink how they print, with the launch of its latest EcoTank models — the ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 — designed to replace traditional cartridge and laser printers with a more cost-effective, convenient and sustainable solution.
T-2910
As cost-of-living pressures rise, many consumers continue to overlook the long-term cost of ownership associated with cartridge and laser printers, from frequent ink replacements to expensive toner and maintenance. Epson EcoTank printers are built to challenge this model, offering a smarter alternative that dramatically reduces printing costs over time.
Traditional printing systems rely on small, expensive consumables, whether it’s ink cartridges that run out quickly or laser toner systems that come with high upfront and replacement costs.
EcoTank changes this equation entirely.
ET-1910
The ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 feature Epson’s innovative refillable ink tank system, designed to deliver ultra low-cost printing without the hassle of cartridges or the complexity of laser technology. With high-capacity ink bottles included in the box, users can print for extended periods without needing to replace supplies.
EcoTank is designed with one clear advantage – lower total cost of ownership over time. Users can save up to 90% on printing costs compared to cartridge-based printers¹, while avoiding the expensive toner replacements often associated with laser devices.
Each EcoTank printer comes with enough ink to print thousands of pages, significantly reducing the need to purchase replacement supplies early on.
This makes EcoTank particularly appealing for:
• Families with ongoing school printing needs
• Hybrid workers managing home office tasks
• Small businesses watching operational costs
Beyond the cost benefits, EcoTank delivers a simpler, more user-friendly experience:
• No cartridges to replace
• Mess-free, easy-refill ink bottles
• Less frequent maintenance and interruptions
ET-2911
The ET-2910 and ET-2911 offer additional versatility with print, scan and copy functionality, along with wireless connectivity for seamless mobile and home network printing.
Meanwhile, the ET-1910 provides a straightforward, reliable print-only solution for users who want maximum value with minimal complexity.
Designed to meet the needs of today’s connected homes, the new EcoTank models combine:
• Compact, space-saving design
• Reliable everyday performance
• Simple setup and operation
Whether printing school assignments, household documents or work materials, EcoTank gives users the confidence to print freely without worrying about running out of ink or overspending on replacements.
“Many households are still stuck in the cycle of buying cartridges or dealing with the cost and complexity of laser printers,” said Phil Daidone, Senior Product Manager at Epson Australia. “With EcoTank, we’re giving customers a better alternative, one that eliminates that cycle entirely. The ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 are designed to make printing more affordable, more convenient and ultimately more sustainable over the long term.”
In addition to saving money, moving away from cartridges and laser consumables supports a more sustainable approach to printing. EcoTank significantly reduces plastic waste and ongoing consumables, making it a more responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
The Epson EcoTank ET-1910, ET-2910 and ET-2911 are now available at www.epson.com.au and through retail stores nationwide.
Epson EcoTank ET-1910
Main function – printing
Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct and Apple AirPrint
Print speed – 11 pages per minute black² and white, 6 pages in colour²
Number of printed pages out of the box – 3,600³ black / 6,500³ colour
Epson EcoTank ET-2910 (white model) and ET-2911 (black model)
Main functions – print, copy and scan
Connectivity – Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct and Apple AirPrint
Print speed – 11 pages per minute black² and white, 6 pages in colour²
Number of printed pages out of the box – 3,600³ black / 6,500³ colour
¹Actual savings and costs will vary considerably based on print tasks, print volumes and usage conditions.
Savings and cost per ISO page are based on the cost of replacement ink bottles and the cost of enough standard cartridges to achieve the total page yields of the bottles using the RRP (AUD) and yields for Epson standard-capacity ink cartridges for similarly featured Epson consumer inkjet printers as of May 2026.
²Black and colour print speeds are measured in accordance with ISO/IEC 24734. Actual print times will vary based on system configuration, software, and page complexity.
³Included ink bottle yields based on the ISO/IEC 24712 pattern with Epson’s methodology. Actual ink yields will vary considerably for reasons including images printed, print settings, temperature and humidity. Yields may be lower when printing infrequently or predominantly with one ink colour. All ink colours are used for printing and printer maintenance, and all colours must be available for printing so an additional black (K) bottle may be required to reach stated colour (C, M, Y) yields.
18, May 2026
Nutrition and Sodium Combine in Many Foods
Washington D.C.: The complexity of foods that are both high in sodium and key nutrients creates challenges for sodium reduction efforts when reformulating foods, according to new research.
Understanding the nutritional profile of the top contributors to sodium intake from food has implications for public health, dietary guidance, and food reformulation efforts.
It is also crucial to understand the levels of different nutrients in foods of public health concern to ensure that ongoing efforts to reduce sodium intake do not inadvertently compromise the overall nutritional quality of the diet.
According to a new study led by University of Toronto researchers, this analysis is necessary is to “avoid unintended consequences, such as reductions in shortfall nutrients or displacement of nutrient-dense foods.” The research was supported by IAFNS Sodium in Foods & Health Implications Committee.
The Nutrients Foods Carry
For example, pizza provides moderate amounts of iron, folate, and calcium. According to the article, “Cold cuts, meat mixed dishes, burritos/tacos, burgers, poultry, and chicken nuggets were the highest contributors (40% to 50%) to protein servings.”
Thus, they conclude that the major sources of sodium also contribute key nutrients which should be considered during sodium reduction and reformulation efforts. Reformulating some food products to lower sodium by 10%-30% is feasible “but should also be implemented in ways to preserve the nutrient contributions of these foods,” the authors say. The paper comes against a backdrop of recent voluntary and educational programs to lower sodium intake from foods.
Based on NHANES Survey
The analysis drew on nationally representative data from the 2017-2018 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a continuous, cross-sectional survey of people living in the U.S. The participants completed an in-person 24-hour dietary recall and health examination. Researchers captured data from a variety of different groups and demographic categories.
Results from the analysis of the survey showed that many top food category contributors to sodium intakes such as vegetables, cheese, cold cuts, and breads are also sources of nutrients Americans do not get enough of. These so-called “short-fall” nutrients include potassium, fiber, calcium, and vitamin D. In addition, the top contributors include food groups of public health importance like dairy, vegetables, and grains. On the flip side, some of these foods can also include what scientists call nutrients-to-limit such as sodium, but also saturated fat, and sugars.
Complex Food Challenge
The paper concludes, “Given the complexity of foods that are simultaneously high in sodium and sources of key nutrients, interpretive front-of-pack labeling systems may help consumers… Evidence from other countries suggests that such systems may encourage shifts toward lower-sodium and healthier products.”
According to Mavra Ahmed, first author on the study and a Research Associate/Fellow in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, “These findings highlight a critical tension in sodium reduction policy — many of the foods contributing most to sodium intake also provide essential nutrients. Therefore, policies must take a more nuanced, systems-level approach to avoid unintended nutritional trade-offs.”
According to Mary L’Abbe’, principal investigator on the study and Professor Emeritus of Nutritional Sciences at Temerty Medicine, “These results show that it is important that manufacturers continue to focus efforts on reducing sodium levels in foods, particular those that are high in sodium and also contribute other important nutrients that Americans need in their diets.”
The new paper is freely available.
The Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS) is committed to leading positive change across the food and beverage ecosystem. This paper was supported by IAFNS Sodium in Foods & Health Implications Committee. IAFNS is a 501(c)(3) science-focused nonprofit uniquely positioned to mobilize government, industry and academia to drive, fund and lead actionable research. iafns.org
18, May 2026
Bharti Enterprises announces agreement for Prudential plc to acquire majority stake in Bharti Life Insurance
New Delhi, May 18 –Bharti Enterprises announced that Prudential plc (“Prudential”), a leading insurer and asset manager in Asia and Africa, has agreed to acquire a 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited (“Bharti Life”), one of India’s leading life insurance providers, from Bharti Life Ventures Pvt Ltd (and other selling shareholders).
Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman, Bharti Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Prudential Plc as the controlling shareholder of Bharti Life, further accelerating its growth trajectory. Prudential’s experience and global scale, combined with Bharti’s strong track record, create a formidable alliance to tap into the immense potential of India’s life insurance sector. This partnership opens new opportunities for Bharti Life’s employees and further reinforces the strategic relationship between India and the United Kingdom.”
Commenting on the development, Karan Bhagat, Founder, MD & CEO, 360 ONE, said “Our private equity funds are pleased to have made a meaningful investment in Bharti Life Insurance and we have been encouraged by the company’s market-leading growth and strong momentum. Today’s transaction reflects both its current performance and long-term potential. We are also delighted to welcome Prudential PLC’s controlling investment in Bharti Life Insurance and look forward to continuing the distribution of the company’s products through our network.”
This transaction comes with India’s life insurance sector undergoing rapid transformation, driven by digital adoption, increasing awareness, and rising demand for financial protection solutions. The market continues to present strong structural growth opportunities, supported by favorable demographics and relatively low life insurance penetration, indicating significant unmet demand.
Bharti Life Insurance, an entity of Bharti Enterprises, has built a strong presence in India through innovative life insurance solutions and an expanding footprint. The investment will support Bharti Life’s next phase of growth by enhancing its product offerings and expanding its distribution reach to better serve evolving customer needs.
Bharti Life’s strong local presence, combined with Prudential’s established insurance expertise, is expected to expand access to life and health protection solutions across the country, supported by the combined brand strength and operational capabilities of both organizations.
Completion of the transaction remains subject to receipt of regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other conditions.
16, May 2026
Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan Season-3 Ends with Renewed Push for Cultural Growth and Artist Empowerment
New Delhi, 16 May, 2026: The concluding day of the 3rd Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan (SKBS) 2026 was celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm at Gangtok yesterday. Organised by the Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Development Board, the programme was graced by Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang as the Chief Guest, accompanied by the spouse of HCM Ms Krishna Kumari Rai.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described artists as the “soul of society” and reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment towards the welfare, promotion and empowerment of artists, cultural practitioners and creative talent in Sikkim.
Welcoming artists from across Sikkim, various parts of India and neighbouring Nepal, the Chief Minister highlighted the deep cultural and emotional ties shared between Sikkim and Nepal through common language, traditions, festivals and music. He stated that artists from Nepal are always warmly welcomed in Sikkim and noted that such cultural exchanges provide valuable learning opportunities for local artists.
The Chief Minister said the Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan, launched in 2024, has evolved into an institutionalised platform dedicated to honouring artists and assuring long-term government support. He added that the programme would continue in the years ahead as part of the State Government’s vision to connect local artists with national and international platforms.
Emphasising that artists and athletes should no longer struggle financially to participate in national and international events, the Chief Minister assured that the Government remains committed to extending support to deserving talents requiring assistance.
Highlighting key initiatives undertaken in the cultural sector, the Chief Minister informed that the number of music and dance academies in the State has increased from around 10 in 2019 to nearly 60 at present. He stated that annual grants ranging from ₹3 lakh to ₹10 lakh are being extended to these institutions. He also spoke about initiatives such as Sikkim Idol and government sponsorships provided to talented youth for higher education and specialised training outside the State.
The Chief Minister further announced major incentives under programmes such as Golden Voice of Sikkim and Golden Beat of Sikkim aimed at encouraging emerging artists. He also highlighted initiatives, including the State’s film policy, promotion of traditional attire every Thursday, support for cultural festivals, and infrastructure projects such as the Swarna Jayanti Convention Hall at Namli and the upcoming cultural and sports village at Ranka.
Stating that “Humanity is the priority,” the Chief Minister reiterated the Government’s commitment towards nurturing human talent, preserving Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage, and empowering the youth through sustained support and opportunities.
Earlier, Chairperson of the Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Development Board, Mr Sanjay Dilpali Rai, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significance of the Sammelan in preserving and promoting the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the State.
The programme also featured audio-visual presentations showcasing the activities and achievements of previous editions of SKBS, along with the screening of the trailer of “Sikkim In A Minute.”
On the occasion, the organising committee felicitated Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and former MLA Ms Krishna Kumari Rai in recognition of their unwavering support towards the event and the artistic community of the State. Representatives of the Association of 21 Communities of Sikkim were also honoured for their active participation and contribution towards the promotion of cultural activities in the State.
Felicitations were further extended to Mr Akshay Sachdeva, Director General of Police, Sikkim Police, along with several artists and distinguished individuals from different fields for their contributions towards society and culture.
A major highlight of the programme was the distribution of CMDG cheques under financial assistance schemes to various dance and music academies as part of the State Government’s continued support towards the promotion of arts and culture. Altogether, 70 institutions and beneficiaries, including students receiving educational assistance, were provided financial support during the event.
The programme also featured a special performance by visually impaired musician, arranger, singer and composer Mr Birman Tamang from Namchi.
Renowned actor, producer, director and social worker Mr Sonu Sood attended the concluding session of the Sammelan and addressed the gathering, appreciating the initiatives undertaken by the State Government to support and encourage artists and cultural practitioners. Senior artists associated with the celebration of the 50 years of Statehood were also felicitated during the programme.
The event witnessed the release of SKBS Magazine Edition-II, launch announcements under “Project-Cine Sikkim: A 1000 Dreams,” and the release of songs and music videos produced by local artists and academies.
Cultural performances presented by Dynamic Flickers Dance Academy, Devot Art, and several noted artists from Sikkim and neighbouring regions enthralled the audience throughout the day.
16, May 2026
Outer Delhi Warriors Rolls Out ‘Krishna Apra Future Star Under-15 Championship’, A Franchise Pathway Roadmap For Youth Cricket In Delhi NCR
Eight Franchise Teams, 200 Young Players, Live Auction and Streaming Broadcast Planned
New Delhi, May 16, 2026:
Outer Delhi Warriors, one of the prominent franchises in the Delhi Premier League, has officially announced the launch of the Krishna Apra Future Star Under-15 Championship, a grassroots T20 tournament aimed at identifying and developing the next generation of cricket talent from Delhi NCR.
The inaugural edition of the championship will be held at the Jamia Millia Islamia grounds from June 20 to June 27, 2026. Player trials are scheduled to begin in May, followed by a live player auction and a planned broadcast on a leading streaming platform.
As part of the initiative, former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel has been appointed Brand Ambassador, bringing with him extensive mentoring experience from his tenure with Gujarat Titans.
Former India cricketer and broadcaster Aakash Chopra has also joined the championship as Brand Ambassador and will serve as one of the key public faces of the tournament.
The tournament’s management team will additionally include Sanjay Rawat as Tournament Secretary and Navnati Dinesh as League Observer.
Tournament Structure
The championship is designed as an Under-15 boys’ T20 competition featuring players selected through open trials conducted across Delhi NCR.
The tournament format will mirror the structure of professional franchise leagues:
-
Open trials for aspiring cricketers
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A live player auction
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Selection of 200 players across eight franchise teams
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15 league-stage matches
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Two semi-finals and a final
The top-performing players will earn entry into the Outer Delhi Warriors Academy Training Programme, which aims to provide long-term development support, professional mentorship, and structured performance training.
Leadership Commentary
Naresh Panwar, Co-owner of Outer Delhi Warriors, said:
“Outer Delhi Warriors has always believed in building a larger vision for grassroots cricket. We feel there is a strong need to create a structured pathway for young cricketers and prepare them for highly competitive environments from an early stage.
The Krishna Apra Future Star Under-15 Championship marks our first formal initiative toward identifying and nurturing promising cricket talent across Delhi NCR.”
Outer Delhi Warriors entered the Delhi Premier League during the 2025 season and has quickly established itself as one of the league’s recognizable franchises, featuring players such as Priyansh Arya, Suyash Sharma, Harsh Tyagi, and Shivam Sharma.
Speaking about the initiative, Aakash Chopra said:
“Indian cricket has never lacked talent. What has often been missing is the right identification and support system at an early age. Structured trials, auctions, and professional exposure can inspire young players and motivate them to pursue cricket seriously.”
Parthiv Patel added:
“The journey from raw talent to professional cricket requires discipline, proper guidance, match exposure, and consistent development. The Krishna Apra Future Star Under-15 Championship has been designed with exactly that vision.”
Sponsorship and Vision
Manish Gupta of Krishna Apra, a well-known real estate brand in North India, said:
“We believe in investing in the country’s future, and sports play a major role in shaping it. We are proud to support an initiative that aims to build the next generation of Indian cricketers.”
The championship is also expected to receive guidance and support from senior international cricketers as the organizers look to create a strong developmental ecosystem for emerging T20 talent in India.
