Odisha’s Ranjan Mohanty Appointed International Judge of World Fitness Federation

Puri, Nov 9 (UDN): Bringing laurels to Odisha on the international stage, Puri-based fitness enthusiast and bodybuilding professional Ranjan Mohanty has been appointed an International Judge of the World Fitness Federation (WFF).

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The recognition marks a significant milestone in Mohanty’s nearly three-decade-long journey in bodybuilding and fitness. His appointment reflects years of dedication, perseverance and active involvement in the sport.

International Recognition At Thailand Championship

Mohanty received the prestigious WFF International Judge certification and badge from federation’s World President Graham Lansfield during the WFF South East Asian Championship held in Pattaya, Thailand, on October 25, 2026.

Speaking about the achievement, Mohanty said that becoming an international judge requires formal recognition and certification from the federation, unlike the opportunities available to judges at regular competitions.

“Judging opportunities are available at almost every competition, but to serve as an international judge, one must receive formal recognition and certification from the federation. I received this certification at the WFF South East Asian Championship held in Pattaya, Thailand,” he said.

He described the appointment as an important achievement in his long association with bodybuilding and fitness.

Indian Contingent Delivers Impressive Performance

Mohanty travelled to Thailand as part of the Indian contingent alongside Dhiraj Mohan, President of WFF India.

The Indian athletes delivered an impressive performance at the championship, securing two Pro Cards and three gold medals, making the international event a memorable outing for the team.

Expressing his happiness over the team’s success, Mohanty said the achievements of Indian athletes made the occasion particularly special.

“Our athletes performed exceptionally well, winning two Pro Cards and three gold medals. It was a proud moment for the Indian team, and I was honoured to receive my International Judge certification at the same event,” he added.

Nearly 30 Years Of Dedication To Fitness

Mohanty’s appointment is being seen as an important recognition of his long-standing contribution to bodybuilding and fitness. With nearly 30 years of experience in the field, he has now earned an opportunity to contribute to the sport at the international judging level.

His achievement has brought recognition to Puri and Odisha, while highlighting the growing presence of Indian fitness professionals in international bodybuilding platforms.

The international certification is a significant step in Mohanty’s sporting journey, opening the door to judging responsibilities at WFF competitions across the world.

Bhubaneswar Diwali Fires: Government Office, Traveller Vehicle Gutted, Power Wires Burn

Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Firecracker-related mishaps disrupted Diwali celebrations in Bhubaneswar, with three separate fire incidents reported across the city on Sunday night. A government office caught fire, a parked traveller vehicle was completely gutted, and electrical wires on a power pole were engulfed in flames.

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The incidents, suspected to have been triggered by sparks from firecrackers, raised concerns over public safety amid widespread celebrations across the state capital.

Government Sericulture Office Catches Fire

In one of the incidents, a fire broke out at a government sericulture office in the Sikharchandi area. Preliminary reports suggest that sparks from firecrackers may have landed on the premises and triggered the blaze.

Following an alert, two fire service teams from Chandrasekharpur Fire Station rushed to the location and launched firefighting operations.

After considerable efforts, firefighters managed to bring the flames under control. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident.

Electrical Wires Catch Fire in Bharatpur

Another fire-related incident was reported from Durga Madhab Nagar in Bharatpur, where sparks from firecrackers reportedly landed on electrical wires installed on a power pole.

The wires soon caught fire, with flames spreading along the electrical lines and triggering panic among nearby residents. The incident was also captured on camera.

Fire service personnel subsequently reached the spot and brought the situation under control.

Traveller Vehicle Reduced to Ashes

In a separate incident at BDA Colony in Chandrasekharpur, a parked traveller vehicle caught fire after sparks from firecrackers reportedly fell on it.

The flames spread rapidly, engulfing the vehicle within minutes and leaving it completely gutted.

The three incidents have once again highlighted the fire hazards associated with careless firecracker use, particularly in residential neighbourhoods and areas containing vehicles, electrical installations and public infrastructure.

Despite festive celebrations bringing people onto the streets, the series of mishaps served as a reminder that even a small firecracker spark can cause significant damage to property and pose risks to public safety.

UAE becomes first country outside Europe to implement eATA Carnet system

DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The UAE commenced its rollout of the eATA Carnet system on 9 November 2026, becoming the first country outside Europe to adopt the innovative digital solution. The initiative is being implemented through collaboration between Dubai Chambers, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), and Dubai Customs.

The system enables ATA Carnets to be issued and processed electronically, replacing paper-based procedures with digital declarations, QR codes, and transaction records. It is designed to accelerate customs clearance, improve transparency, and facilitate international trade and events.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has served as the UAE’s National Guaranteeing and Issuing Association for ATA Carnets since 2011. The chamber played a key role in preparing for the implementation, working closely with national customs authorities and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on technical consultations, training, and pre-launch testing.

Dubai Chambers is one of only 13 of the ICC’s 1,200 member chambers worldwide to implement the eATA Carnet system.

ATA Carnets allow eligible goods to enter participating countries temporarily without payment of customs duties or taxes, provided they are subsequently re-exported. Valid for up to one year, they simplify customs requirements for exhibitions, commercial samples, and professional equipment, reducing paperwork and the need for separate customs guarantees.

Between the UAE’s adoption of the ATA Carnet system in 2011 and the end of 2025, 63,591 carnets were issued and received, covering goods worth AED 54.4 billion. In 2025 alone, Dubai Chamber of Commerce issued and received 5,960 carnets covering goods valued at AED 5.6 billion, up 11.2% in number and 30% in value year-on-year.

The UAE’s transition follows the June 2026 rollout across 30 European countries. Full global digitalisation of the ATA Carnet system is expected by 1 January 2028.

About Dubai Chambers

Dubai Chambers is a non-profit public entity that supports Dubai’s vision as a global business hub by empowering businesses, providing innovative value-added services, and unlocking access to influential networks.

For more information, please contact:

Mohamad Mouzehem

mohamad.mouzehem@dubaichamber.com

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Diwali Pollution in Odisha: Bhubaneswar AQI 242, Bileipada Records 288

Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): The aftermath of Diwali celebrations has left several parts of Odisha struggling with deteriorating air quality, with firecracker emissions pushing pollution levels into the ‘Poor’ category in major locations. Bhubaneswar woke up to a thick layer of haze on Monday morning, raising concerns over public health and the growing impact of post-festival pollution.

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According to the reported air quality readings, Keonjhar’s Bileipada recorded the state’s highest Air Quality Index (AQI) at 288, followed by Talcher at 266 and Bhubaneswar at 207. All three locations fell under the ‘Poor’ air quality category.

The situation in the state capital remained particularly concerning. The monitoring station near Lingaraj Temple recorded an AQI of 242 on Monday morning, while Patia registered elevated pollution levels. PM10 concentrations in the Lingaraj area reportedly touched 500 during the previous night, indicating a significant deterioration in air quality.

Meanwhile, Cuttack, Baripada, Balasore and Barbil continued to experience ‘Moderate’ air quality conditions.

Firecracker Smoke Leaves Bhubaneswar Residents Worried

Several neighbourhoods in Bhubaneswar remained enveloped in smoke following extensive firecracker use during Diwali celebrations on Sunday night. Despite restrictions and awareness campaigns, firecrackers were reportedly burst late into the night, contributing to a visible deterioration in air quality.

Residents described hazy surroundings and reduced visibility, with smoke reportedly entering homes even when doors and windows were kept shut. Several people also complained of breathing discomfort, while families expressed concerns about the possible health consequences of prolonged exposure to polluted air.

The situation has once again highlighted the environmental cost of excessive firecracker use, particularly in densely populated urban areas.

Rising Pollution Raises Health Concerns

The post-Diwali pollution spike has renewed concerns about the health risks associated with exposure to particulate matter and other pollutants released by firecrackers.

Poor air quality can aggravate respiratory problems, trigger coughing and throat irritation, and worsen existing conditions such as asthma and other lung diseases. Children, elderly people and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions are particularly vulnerable.

An AQI reading below 50 is classified as ‘Good’, while readings above 200 fall under the ‘Poor’ category under India’s National Air Quality Index classification.

Enforcement Measures Under Scrutiny

Despite awareness drives and restrictions imposed by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), the Odisha State Pollution Control Board and other concerned departments, the reported pollution levels suggest that controlling firecracker-related emissions remains a significant challenge.

The sharp rise in pollution following the celebrations has raised questions about the effectiveness of existing enforcement measures and the need for stricter monitoring of firecracker use.

With several locations recording elevated pollution levels, residents are being urged to remain cautious, particularly during periods of heavy haze. Limiting outdoor physical activity, avoiding unnecessary exposure to smoke and taking extra precautions for vulnerable family members can help reduce the immediate health risks.

The latest readings serve as a reminder that the environmental impact of festive celebrations can extend well beyond the night of Diwali, leaving cities grappling with polluted air even after the festivities have ended.

Roche opens up new possibilities for genomic research in Asia Pacific with next-generation sequencing technology

• AXELIOS 1 introduces Roche’s proprietary sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology, designed for flexibility and performance to tackle a wide range of sequencing workflows with speed and accuracy
• As APAC’s genomics capabilities expand, the platform offers researchers greater freedom to pursue studies of varying scale and complexity
• Roche will bring together researchers and laboratory leaders at AXELIOS Days in Australia and South Korea this November to explore the technology’s potential for genomic research

SINGAPORE, Nov. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Roche is advancing its next-generation sequencing (NGS) ambitions in Asia Pacific following the global launch of AXELIOS 1 in June 2026. Building on early adoption in South Korea, Roche will bring the transformative technology closer to researchers and laboratory leaders across the region through AXELIOS Days in Sydney and Seoul this November.

The region’s NGS market is projected to more than double from US$3.4 billion in 2025 to US$7.38 billion by 2030¹, as researchers pursue increasingly ambitious studies to better understand complex diseases and the genetic diversity of regional populations. These evolving research needs are placing greater demands on laboratories to deliver faster results, support a wider range of workflows, from smaller, time-sensitive projects to large-scale genomic studies, and use resources efficiently.

Lim Hong Yew, APAC Value Stream Lead, Lab & C-Suite, Roche Diagnostics, said: “For too long, laboratories have had to balance sequencing speed, accuracy, scale and cost. AXELIOS 1 presents an immense opportunity to change that equation, giving researchers greater flexibility and freedom to pursue studies that are challenging to undertake. Across Asia Pacific, our ambition is to help laboratories build on the region’s growing genomics capabilities and vibrant ecosystems to explore questions that were previously beyond reach.”

A new approach to sequencing

At the core of AXELIOS 1 is Roche’s proprietary sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology. It converts genetic information into synthetic molecules called Xpandomers, approximately 50 times longer than the original DNA fragments. This makes individual bases easier to distinguish, supporting high-accuracy sequencing. The platform combines this approach with high-speed processing, offering sequencing runs of approximately 15 minutes to four hours and generating at least 1.8 terabases in a four-hour run, with the potential to deliver whole-genome sequencing results within the same day ^2,3.

For laboratories, this combination of accuracy, speed and scale offers greater flexibility to manage different research demands, from smaller, time-sensitive projects to large genomic studies, without waiting to accumulate enough samples for a full sequencing run.

“When evaluating new sequencing technologies, we look beyond technical performance to what they could enable for the researchers we serve,” said Changhoon Kim, CEO, Macrogen. “With AXELIOS 1, we saw an opportunity to respond to a wider range of research needs and take on projects that may previously have been difficult to pursue. For us, the value lies in what we can make possible for the scientists who rely on our services.”

Looking ahead for genomic research in Asia Pacific

As new sequencing capabilities open up opportunities for research, the focus is shifting towards what scientists can investigate next. Roche will bring this conversation to AXELIOS Days in Sydney, Australia, on 9–10 November and Seoul, South Korea, on 12–13 November 2026, convening researchers, laboratory leaders and international genomics experts. Through scientific discussions on emerging applications and live demonstrations of AXELIOS 1, the events will explore how advances in sequencing could enable new approaches to understanding human biology and disease.

Cath Moore, Chief Scientific Officer, Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF), said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of working in genomics is seeing how quickly researchers turn new technologies into new discoveries. The Roche AXELIOS 1 platform brings a different combination of speed, scalability, flexibility, and read-length capability that will help Australian researchers pursue important questions more effectively. We’re particularly excited by the possibilities it creates, not only to improve existing applications, but to explore new ways genomic technologies can contribute to research, healthcare, and innovation. Our role at AGRF is to make these capabilities accessible and support researchers as they push the boundaries of what’s possible.”

About the AXELIOS 1 platform

AXELIOS 1 is Roche’s next‑generation single-molecule sequencing platform and the first powered by proprietary sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology. The platform converts DNA/RNA into high signal‑to‑noise ‘Xpandomers,’ which are measured by a sequencing instrument using a reusable complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) sensor containing millions of nanopores. This architecture enables accurate, ultra‑rapid, flexible and high‑throughput, single‑molecule sequencing with near real‑time analysis.

Fundamentally designed for flexibility and performance, the AXELIOS 1 platform can be used for smaller, faster batches or larger projects without changing systems or workflows, and it is capable of producing whole‑genome results the same day.

Roche will be offering library prep kits and a free open-source bioinformatics analysis suite (XOOS) tailored for SBX technology. In addition, the platform is built to allow for the flexible use of other life sciences tools, enabling high compatibility across a broad breadth of research applications.

Since the SBX technology was unveiled in early 2025, multiple research applications have been tested on the technology as proof of principle, including whole‑genome sequencing (WGS), RNA‑sequencing, single‑cell RNA, spatial, and methylation, among others ^3,4. Early‑access users have also demonstrated practical research applications across oncology ⁵, genetics and infectious diseases, as well as garnering the world record for fastest DNA sequencing technique ^6,7. AXELIOS 1 is for research use only.  Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

About the sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology

The SBX technology is a novel sequencing approach which uses a sophisticated biochemical process to encode the sequence of a target nucleic acid molecule (DNA or RNA) into a measurable surrogate polymer called an “Xpandomer”. The Xpandomers, which are fifty times longer than the original molecule, encode the sequence information into high signal-to-noise reporters, meaning they provide clear signals with minimal background noise when threaded through a nanopore, thereby significantly improving the accuracy of single-molecule sequencing.

The SBX chemistry is coupled with a reusable, high-throughput CMOS sensor module and an advanced analysis module that enables ultra-rapid, near real-time base calls and analysis. This module is designed with a highly scalable and flexible architecture for cost-efficient sequencing across different project sizes, from small-scale studies to large projects involving thousands of samples. Workflows can also be adapted for various experimental needs, including reads of up to ~1500bp under appropriate sample and library prep conditions and ultra-fast processing from sample to Variant Calling Format (VCF).

This versatility makes the SBX technology suitable for a variety of applications, including but not limited to whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, and RNA sequencing.

To find out more about Roche’s novel SBX technology, click here.

About Roche’s Sequencing Portfolio

Roche has been committed to providing next-generation sequencing library prep solutions and application support for research in sequencing for several years. Today, next-generation sequencing solutions from Roche play an important role in the sequencing ecosystem. Our KAPA sample preparation products offer high-performance DNA, RNA library prep and target enrichment solutions for a variety of applications. Additionally, we offer the AVENIO Edge system that provides a true walk-away automated solution for many of our KAPA kits. This system does not require advanced programming skills and comes with ready-to-use kits and protocols. Our AVENIO assays offer robust solutions for oncology, including the AVENIO Tumor Tissue CGP Automated RUO Kit, a collaboration between Roche and Foundation Medicine.

About Roche 

Roche (SIX: RO, ROP; OTCQX: RHHBY) is a healthcare company uniquely placed to prevent, stop and cure diseases by uniting leading science and technology across diagnostics, medicines and digital solutions.

Roche was founded in Basel, Switzerland in 1896 and today is a leading provider of transformative medicines and diagnostics for millions of people in over 150 countries around the world. It is dedicated to tackling healthcare challenges that place the greatest strain on patients, families, communities and healthcare systems. Across its Diagnostics and Pharmaceutical divisions, Roche focuses on areas including oncology, neurology, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, ophthalmology, infectious diseases and immunology with the aim of providing real and positive change for patients, the people they love and the professionals who care for them.

Genentech in the United States is a fully owned subsidiary in the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, a major innovator in the Japanese therapeutic antibody market.

For more information, please visit www.roche.com.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law.

For further information please contact

IBM Unveils Its Most Advanced Quantum Computer in Chicago, Marking a Milestone for Illinois’s Quantum Future

Hosted by the University of Chicago, IBM Quantum System Two is now operational at Hyde Park Labs and will be a prominent fixture of Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) upon the site’s completion.

IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois extends the company’s industry and academic partnerships across the state, enabling the Illinois ecosystem and beyond to scale quantum algorithms and applications.

CHICAGO, Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM), the University of Chicago, the State of Illinois, and Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) today unveiled an IBM Quantum System Two in Chicago, IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois and the company’s most advanced system available. Initially located at Hyde Park Labs and hosted by the University of Chicago, the system is fueled by IBM Quantum Nighthawk, the most powerful quantum chip IBM has ever built.

Today, organizations across Illinois are already working with IBM to explore how quantum computing can scale to computationally difficult challenges. The new system aims to catalyze the state’s robust ecosystem of scientists, universities, national laboratories, startups, and enterprises, many of whom are collaborating with IBM in Chicago within IQMP’s National Quantum Algorithm Center (NQAC) to develop the next generation of algorithms and applications. As the anchor system of NQAC, which was established in 2024 by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker with IBM as a leading member, the new quantum computer will ultimately be moved to IQMP, a first-of-its-kind campus in Chicago currently being built to develop and scale quantum technology and microelectronics innovation.

“IBM is proud to deploy our first quantum computer of IQMP — an IBM Quantum System Two. Today, it can deliver scientifically useful results to organizations across the state of Illinois and beyond,” said Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO, IBM. “As IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois, the system’s deployment marks a milestone for Illinois’ quantum community and builds on IBM’s partnerships across the state as we expand quantum research across academia and industries.”

“I want the next generation of breakthroughs to happen in Illinois and the jobs and opportunity that come with them to benefit the people of Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With the unveiling of IBM’s Quantum System Two in Hyde Park, we are giving researchers and businesses the tool to turn big ideas into real-world solutions. With our growing partnership with IBM, we are building an industry that will give Illinoisans more career opportunities and build a future right here at home.”

“The presence of IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois, the company’s most advanced system available, is a testament to what’s possible when partners across government, industry and academia work together toward a shared vision,” said Harley Johnson, CEO of the IQMP. “Today reflects the unique strength of Illinois’ quantum ecosystem. We’re thrilled to see IBM Quantum System Two at Hyde Park Labs while the Park is under construction, and we’re more energized than ever to welcome it to the IQMP, where it will anchor the National Quantum Algorithm Center and further establish Illinois as the global destination for quantum innovation.”

“The deployment of IBM’s Quantum System Two represents the culmination of a years-long partnership that brought together academia, government, and private industry to usher in a new generation of discovery. I am delighted that this machine is being unveiled here in Hyde Park, where our neighbors and community will have a view into the future,” said University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos.

“IBM Quantum System Two brings another critical capability to Illinois’ growing quantum ecosystem and showcases the collaboration that makes our state such a draw,” said Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George. “For companies developing quantum technologies and applications, access to advanced computing systems, leading researchers, and industry partners in one place is a powerful advantage. This investment strengthens Illinois’ position as a destination for companies looking to innovate, grow, and help shape the future of quantum computing.”

This new IBM Quantum System Two advances IBM’s mission to bring useful quantum computing to the world and extends the company’s commitment to advancing Illinois as a global epicenter for quantum innovation.

Since NQAC’s founding, IBM has helped grow the center into a hub within Chicago where industry leaders work side-by-side with IBM researchers to build quantum applications that can scale alongside technical progress in the field. This includes NQAC Grand Challenge participants Deloitte and AbbVie, who are working with IBM and Northwestern University to build quantum molecular simulation approaches for researchers engaging in drug discovery.

Other Grand Challenges participants working with IBM include EPRI and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.) to explore how quantum optimization algorithms could lead to more efficient power grids.

Additionally, research institutions and national labs such as Fermilab are working with IBM in Illinois to accelerate high-energy physics research with quantum and advance technologies for distributed quantum computing. 

IBM is also teaming with leading universities such as the University of Chicago and U. of I. to push technological progress in quantum computing. For example, IBM and the University of Chicago recently demonstrated quantum advantage over leading classical methods using an approach with guaranteed correctness.

Now, IBM’s quantum computing technology is being brought physically into Chicago. Through NQAC, the new quantum computer will empower Illinois’ quantum community to develop new algorithms and applications that will translate to real-world impact. And it will serve as a catalyst for developing Illinois’ current and future quantum workforce. Earlier this year, IBM announced it would establish the FutureNow Chicago center at the IQMP in partnership with City Colleges of Chicago, to bring 750 jobs to the region across AI, cybersecurity, data science, quantum computing and other technologies. 

With the arrival of IBM Quantum System Two, Chicago and the State of Illinois will be cemented as a leading destination for quantum innovation, industrialization, and workforce development.

Supporting Quotes

“IBM’s continued partnership and the unveiling of IBM Quantum System Two mark an exciting moment for the industry and our state’s quantum ecosystem,” said Brad Henderson, CEO of P33. “Deepening collaboration between industry, our universities, national labs, and state government is what sets us apart and further cements Illinois as a global leader in quantum technology.”

“We are proud to contribute the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s expertise and decades of leadership in supercomputing alongside our higher education and corporate partners,” said Illinois Chancellor Charles L. Isbell, Jr. “As a public-serving university, Illinois’ mission is to advance education, research, and economic opportunity across the state, and we’re excited to engage in work that translates the brilliance of Illinois faculty into tangible, real-world impact that affirms the state of Illinois and Chicago as the epicenter of the next generation of technological progress.”

“This is a significant milestone in advancing Illinois’ quantum economy and turning our state’s world-class research capabilities into real-world economic opportunity,” said Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards. “Through the State’s leadership and strategic investments in quantum, we are building an ecosystem for long-term industry growth, new business investment, and high-quality jobs.”

About IBM

IBM is a leading global hybrid cloud and AI, and business services provider, helping clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and business services deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s legendary commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. 

For more information, visit https://research.ibm.com. 

Media contacts: 

Brittany Forgione

IBM

Brittany.forgione@ibm.com

Erin Angelini

IBM

Edlehr@us.ibm.com

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IIHM and Andhra Pradesh Join Hands to Build Hospitality Skills and Promote the State’s Culinary Heritage

A three-year strategic partnership signed at the 31st CII Partnership Summit will connect hospitality education with Andhra Pradesh’s culinary traditions, tourism priorities and sustainable destination development.

KOLKATA, India, Nov. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What makes a destination memorable? It is often more than its landscapes or monuments. It is the food, the flavours, the traditions and the warmth of the people who welcome visitors. Recognising the importance of these experiences to tourism, the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), part of the Indismart Group, has entered into a three-year Strategic Partnership Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, through the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority.

The agreement was signed on 26 October 2026 in Tirupati during the 31st CII Partnership Summit 2026. It establishes a framework for collaboration across four key areas: hospitality education and skills development, promotion of Andhra Pradesh’s culinary heritage, destination development and sustainable tourism, and stronger industry–academia linkages.

A central focus of the partnership is to bring professional hospitality training closer to the needs of the industry. Proposed programmes will cover food production, culinary arts, bakery and patisserie, food and beverage service, front office, housekeeping, hotel operations and tourism operations. Specialised training will also address food safety, hygiene, kitchen management, menu planning, costing, sustainable food production and waste minimisation.

The collaboration will combine practical training, workshops and certification-oriented programmes with opportunities for industry exposure. Internships, educational visits, culinary competitions, placement linkages and entrepreneurship opportunities may also be explored, subject to mutually agreed arrangements between the parties.

An important dimension of the MoU is the promotion of Andhra Pradesh’s distinctive culinary heritage. Through chef masterclasses, culinary demonstrations, regional cuisine workshops and train-the-trainer programmes, the collaboration will seek to bring greater attention to indigenous ingredients, traditional cooking practices and regional food cultures. Culinary tourism will be another area of focus, recognising food as an important expression of a destination’s identity.

The partnership will also explore sustainable hospitality practices, responsible tourism, local sourcing and farm-to-fork concepts, alongside the application of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in hospitality education and tourism operations. IIHM will contribute its faculty, chefs and industry experts, along with its experience in technology-enabled learning, sustainability and food-waste reduction.

The agreement provides for collaboration across Andhra Pradesh, with priority destinations to be identified jointly by IIHM and the state government. A joint coordination committee, comprising designated nodal officers, will oversee implementation through quarterly or mutually agreed review meetings and an annual assessment of activities and outcomes. The first three months will focus on developing a joint action plan, followed by pilot training programmes, workshops and stakeholder mapping during months three to six. Expansion across identified destinations is envisaged between months six and twelve.

Speaking on the partnership, Dr Suborno Bose, Founder & Chairman of the Indismart Group and IIHM Worldwide said:

“Hospitality education must be connected to the places and communities it serves. Andhra Pradesh has a remarkable culinary identity, with traditions, ingredients and food practices that deserve to be preserved and shared with the world. Through this partnership, we want to bring education, professional skills and industry knowledge together, while recognising that the true strength of tourism lies in its people, its culture and the experiences it creates. Preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals must go hand in hand with preserving the heritage that makes every destination unique.”

The signing was attended by Sri Shamsher Singh Rawat, IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture, Government of Andhra Pradesh; Sri Sagili Shan Mohan, IAS, Chief Executive Officer, Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board; Sri Chiranjeev Choudhary, IFS, Senior Indian Forest Service Officer; and Sri Ravindra Sannareddy, Founder & Managing Director, Sri City Pvt Limited.

The MoU is initially valid for three years from the date of signing. Each party will bear the costs of the activities it undertakes under the agreement.

For IIHM, the partnership is an opportunity to bring its hospitality education expertise into closer engagement with the culinary traditions and tourism priorities of Andhra Pradesh. It also recognises an important principle: the future of hospitality depends not only on how well professionals are trained, but also on how deeply they understand the culture, communities and heritage of the destinations they represent.

Website: www.iihm.ac.in

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WALOVI X-Hero Debuts at Inaugural Fortune Southeast Asia 500 Summit, Vietnam Emerges as a Growth Engine for Southeast Asia

GUANGZHOU, China, Nov. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The inaugural Fortune Southeast Asia 500 Summit was held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on November 3. The summit brought together regional business leaders and multinational executives. During the event, WALOVI unveiled its X-Hero energy electrolyte drink, alongside the inauguration of Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited (GPHL)’s Vietnam representative office.

Featuring natural plant-based ingredients, such as ginseng and coffee beans, WALOVI X-Hero combines these botanicals with electrolytes to support energy and electrolyte replenishment. It responds to young consumers’ growing demand for natural ingredients and convenient replenishment.

Ye Jizeng, the Vice President of WALOVI Beverages Group Co., Ltd., said the global beverage industry is undergoing a fundamental shift, with natural plant-based beverages moving from a niche option toward mainstream consumption. In response, WALOVI is pursuing two major transitions: evolving from a single-product company into a full-category business, and from a domestic brand into a global one.

WALOVI has been expanding its presence across Southeast Asia. In Malaysia, it partnered with Baosteel Can Making Malaysia in May 2025 to advance localized production. In Singapore, its international headquarters was launched in August 2026 to coordinate regional strategy and global resources. In Indonesia, WALOVI held its global investment promotion conference in Jakarta this year, unveiled its classic and international can ranges, and signed agreements with local distributors.

Vietnam is a key example of localized development. Following the debut of the WALOVI Vietnam Can in May 2026, X-Hero was unveiled at the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 Summit in November. The country’s hot climate, spicy cuisine and familiarity with herbal ingredients create favorable conditions for functional beverages. Since accelerating its development in Vietnam in 2021, WALOVI has achieved rapid growth, making Vietnam its largest and fastest-growing market in Southeast Asia.

WALOVI sees Southeast Asia as a diverse region of countries with different languages and stages of development, where no single approach can fit every market.

As the global beverage industry evolves, WALOVI will continue to connect diverse markets through product innovation and open collaboration, to bring its natural plant-based beverages to a wider international audience.

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