18, May 2026
Rōti Modern Mediterranean Debuts in London, Expands in Atlanta with First Global Rōti Day
ATLANTA, May 18, 2026 – Rōti Modern Mediterranean®, the fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant concept part of Edible Brands®, is turning its latest expansion into a global brand moment.
The company announced the launch of Global Rōti Day, a new annual celebration held on May 19. The event coincides with the brand’s strategic entry into the London market through three delivery-first kitchens, alongside an expansion in the Atlanta region with a new delivery-first store opening in Smyrna. Together, this moment introduces Rōti to new guests in the United Kingdom and United States while building awareness. The London locations also establish a foundation for future international growth.

Global Rōti Day was created to bring new and existing guests into the brand through a one-day-only, buy-one-get-one chef-curated bowl offer available in-store, online, via the Rōti app on the Apple Store and Google Play and through third-party delivery platforms such as DoorDash, Uber Eats and Grubhub. The first 50 guests at Rōti’s 17 traditional storefront restaurants will receive a limited-edition Rōti tote bag and a free beverage for a year. Participating restaurants will also feature spin wheel giveaways with prizes including free hummus and pita, branded T-shirts, a jackpot prize package, free cookies or $3 off a future entrée. In addition, guests ordering from Rōti’s delivery-first kitchens in London and Atlanta will receive $5 off future orders through the app or online. Across markets, guests are also invited to share how they Rōti with #ShowUsHowURōti on social media.
“What makes Rōti work is simple. It’s bold food, real hospitality and shows up the same way every time,” said Matthew Walls, president and chief stores officer of Edible Brands. “Atlanta is about building depth in a market we not only work in, but live in and believe in. London is about proving this brand can travel. Global Rōti Day lets us do both at once. We’re giving people a reason to try us, and once they do, that’s where it gets real. They connect with the food and the people behind it, and that’s what brings them back.”
Rōti’s London entry and Atlanta-area expansion reflect a broader strategy grounded in adaptability. The brand is growing through a mix of traditional restaurants and delivery-first kitchens, allowing it to enter new markets efficiently, generate early demand and meet guests through the channels they already use. The model supports a capital-conscious approach to expansion while maintaining a consistent guest experience.
For Edible Brands, Rōti represents a distinct growth opportunity within a portfolio built around food, hospitality and consumer connection. The brand benefits from shared infrastructure, including supply chain, technology and operational support, while maintaining its own identity.
“Rōti is a big part of where we are going as a company,” said Somia Farid Silber, chief executive officer of Edible Brands. “At Edible Brands, we are building a platform that brings together different food experiences in a way that feels relevant to how people eat and connect today. Rōti gives us the opportunity to do that in a new category, with a brand that can grow across markets and formats. Global Rōti Day is an example of how we bring that to new guests while continuing to build something that can scale over time.”
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- By Neel Achary
18, May 2026
JUFET Team InnovateX Enters Top 10 at Deloitte Hacksplosion 2026
Bengaluru, May 18 : Students from the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) at c have earned national acclaim by reaching the Grand Finale of the Deloitte Hacksplosion National Level Hackathon 2026. The journey began on 30 January 2026 with 21,910+ registrations from across India, progressing through multiple rigorous stages including a brand quiz, coding rounds, idea submissions, semifinals, and expert evaluations — culminating in only 10 teams qualifying for the finale.

Among these Top 10 teams nationwide, only one team from Karnataka advanced to the Grand Finale Team “InnovateX” from JUFET.
Romal Shetty, CEO – Deloitte South Asia, publicly appreciated Team InnovateX for their performance at the Grand Finale, acknowledging the students’ innovation, technical excellence and teamwork on a national platform.
What makes this achievement especially remarkable is the interdisciplinary strength. The finalists are 3rd-year students from Data Science (DS), Internet of Things (IoT), and Computer Science Engineering (CSE – General) streams, who competed against top talent from premier institutions across the country.
Adding to the celebration, all team members secured internships, reflecting their industry readiness and outstanding performance during the hackathon.
The team’s hackathon journey was mentored by Dr. Garima, whose guidance and encouragement were instrumental throughout the competition. The students also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Preethi Bhandary and Senthil for their leadership during the various stages of the hackathon and to the Vice President of the University for consistent motivation and support.
This milestone highlights JUFET’s continued focus on experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong industry engagement, enabling students to excel on national platforms.
18, May 2026
SEBI to Open Bhubaneswar Branch Office, Announces Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): The Securities and Exchange Board of India will soon establish a branch office in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant step toward strengthening financial market regulation and investor outreach in eastern India. The announcement was made by SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey while addressing a regional investor awareness programme organized by the Association of Mutual Funds in India in the city.

Pandey said SEBI would initially begin operations from a smaller office in Bhubaneswar, with activities currently managed through Mumbai and Kolkata gradually shifting to the new centre. He added that plans are also underway to establish a permanent office in the state capital in the future.
Highlighting the growing relevance of alternative financing mechanisms, the SEBI Chairman encouraged Odisha to explore the use of municipal bonds to fund urban infrastructure and development projects. He noted that 22 urban local bodies across the country have issued 33 municipal bonds, mobilizing nearly Rs 4,500 crore for development activities. Municipal corporations in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have already benefited from the model, he said.
Pandey emphasized that Odisha, with its expanding urban landscape, should leverage municipal bonds to meet increasing financial requirements for infrastructure expansion. He also pointed out that the Central government offers grant-based incentives to encourage such bond issuances.
Speaking on the growth of India’s mutual fund industry, Pandey said the sector has expanded significantly from nearly Rs 12 lakh crore in 2015-16 to around Rs 82 lakh crore at present. Odisha’s contribution currently stands at about Rs 71,000 crore, accounting for less than one per cent of the national market.
Observing that Odisha contributes nearly three per cent to India’s economy, he said the state’s participation in the mutual fund ecosystem should also rise proportionately. At the same time, he noted that Odisha remains among the leading states in terms of monthly growth in Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investments.
He further highlighted the rapid growth of India’s capital market over the past decade, stating that the country’s total market capitalization increased from Rs 95 lakh crore in 2015-16 to Rs 463 lakh crore in 2025-26. During the same period, the number of investors rose from 3.8 crore to 14.5 crore.
Pandey also said India recorded 366 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2025-26, through which companies raised nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore, placing the country among global leaders in IPO activity.
18, May 2026
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava Releases Special INR 60 Commemorative Coin to Mark HLL Diamond Jubilee

Thiruvananthapuram, May 18: Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, released the special ₹60 commemorative coin to mark the Diamond Jubilee of HLL Lifecare Limited (HLL) during the organisation’s Diamond Jubilee valedictory function held in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday (May 18, 2026). Issued by the Government of India, the coin commemorates HLL’s six decades of service to the nation in public healthcare and social development initiatives. HLL is a Mini Ratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Srivastava lauded HLL’s contribution to India’s public healthcare ecosystem and its continued commitment to innovation, affordability and inclusive healthcare delivery.
“HLL has consistently lived up to the trust reposed in it by the Union Ministry. The organisation has been identifying critical gaps in healthcare delivery and addressing them through progressive, research-based initiatives. Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has immense confidence in the organisation’s capabilities. The Ministry takes pride in the fact that, through HLL’s AMRIT Pharmacy network, cancer medicines, branded drugs and medical devices have been made available to patients at discounts of up to 50 per cent. During Operation Sindoor, HLL ensured the timely supply of essential medical products, including sutures, surgical items, medicines and BHISHM cubes. The organisation also played a significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring the availability of essential medicines and healthcare supplies. Whenever the nation has faced a crisis, HLL has risen to the occasion with exemplary service,” she said.
Dr. Anitha Thampi, Chairman and Managing Director of HLL Lifecare Limited, who presided over the function, said the organisation’s responsibility towards society had grown even greater as it completed 60 years.
“From a single contraceptive brand, HLL has evolved steadily into one of India’s most comprehensive public healthcare organisations. Over the years, the organisation has expanded into diverse sectors, including contraceptives, hospital products, women’s healthcare, affordable diagnostics, retail pharmacies and emergency response services, each reflecting a continued commitment to public service. Going forward, we aim to reach more people through expansion into emerging areas such as nutrition, AI-enabled healthcare solutions and new public health initiatives,” she added.
N. Ajith, Director (Marketing); Shri P. Remesh, Director (Finance); Shri Benny Joseph, Director (T&O); and other senior officers and Trade Union representatives of HLL were also present on the occasion.
A series of initiatives and product launches also marked the occasion. The Health Innovation Translation Scale-Up Centre, established in association with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, and the HLL Parivartan Wellness Clinic were launched at the event. The new products unveiled on the occasion included the Ceredrain Hydrocephalus Shunt, the HLL Happy Days Earth sanitary napkins, and HLL’s packaged drinking water brand, ‘HLL Water’. An MoU with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay to strengthen collaboration in healthcare innovation and technology was also signed during the event.
The commemorative coin executive stands and inaugural frames were produced by India Government Mint, Hyderabad, under the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL).
18, May 2026
Chandikhol Set to Emerge as Strategic Crude Oil Storage Hub Under India-UAE Partnership
Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): Odisha is poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s energy security, with Chandikhol set to emerge as a major strategic crude oil storage hub under a significant India-UAE energy partnership formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United Arab Emirates.
Representational image
Under the proposed initiative, Chandikhol will house a massive underground strategic petroleum reserve with a storage capacity of nearly 40 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil. Estimated at around Rs 8,743 crore, the project is expected to significantly enhance India’s emergency fuel preparedness and strengthen long-term energy resilience.
The agreement for the project was signed between the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, following discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The partnership is seen as a major step toward deepening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and reinforcing India-UAE strategic ties.
Although the Union Cabinet had approved the project in 2018, implementation was delayed due to land acquisition-related challenges. With renewed focus and momentum, the project is now expected to move forward, positioning Odisha as an important pillar in India’s petroleum infrastructure network.
Experts believe the underground reserve will play a vital role during emergency or war-like situations by helping maintain fuel availability in the event of disruptions to global crude oil supplies. The facility is also expected to strengthen India’s strategic fuel reserves and improve preparedness against international supply uncertainties.
Once operational, the project is likely to boost industrial growth, infrastructure development and employment opportunities in Odisha, further reinforcing the state’s growing importance in India’s energy and industrial ecosystem.
18, May 2026
GE Aerospace Accelerates India Manufacturing Growth with 100 Crore Pune Investment

Pune, India, May 18: GE Aerospace today announced an investment of INR 100 Crore in its Pune manufacturing facility, further strengthening its manufacturing footprint in India and reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country. The investment will support new welding technologies, advanced inspection equipment, precision tools, gauges, fixtures, and additional infrastructure enhancements designed to increase production capacity, enhance process precision, and support the delivery of high-quality components for customers worldwide.
This latest investment builds on the INR 410 Crore announced over the last two years, bringing GE Aerospace’s total investment in the Pune facility to more than INR 510 Crore over three years. Previous investments were focused on advancing manufacturing processes, automation, and capability enhancements supporting next-generation engine components. The latest upgrades will further expand the facility’s capabilities and support component production across GE Aerospace’s GE90, GEnx, GE9X, and CFM International’s LEAP engine programs.
“This continued investment reflects GE Aerospace’s long-term commitment to India and our confidence in the Pune facility’s role within our global manufacturing network,” said Vishwajit Singh, Managing Director, Pune manufacturing facility, GE Aerospace. “Our continued growth is a win for our customers and the broader community, driving more apprenticeship and job opportunities at GE Aerospace and for our supplier partners. Over the past decade, this facility has grown into a high capability aerospace manufacturing hub, strengthening India‘s supplier ecosystem and contributing to GE Aerospace‘s global supply chain.”
GE Aerospace’s Pune manufacturing facility is a key part of the company’s global supply chain, producing critical components for commercial aircraft engines. The facility works with more than 300 suppliers locally across a broader network of over 2,200 GE Aerospace suppliers in India, helping strengthen the country’s role in global aerospace programs through advanced manufacturing expertise and precision engineering capabilities. The facility also plays an important role in workforce development. Its structured two-year apprenticeship program enrolls more than 500 apprentices annually in classroom instruction and specialized TIG welding training through the site’s dedicated Weld School. Since 2015, the facility has trained more than 5,000 production associates, helping build a strong pipeline of aerospace manufacturing talent in India. Recent community and workforce development grants have also supported initiatives focused on technical education and skill development in the region.
Today’s announcement further reinforces GE Aerospace’s broader commitment to India, where the company continues to invest in manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain development to help shape the future of flight.
CFM International is a 50-50 joint company between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.
18, May 2026
WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organized Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking
Bhubaneswar, May 18: The World Trade Centre (WTC) Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the World Skill Centre (WSC) and RBL Bank, organized an interactive session on skill development and MSME banking, which was widely appreciated for its insightful discussions and engaging exchanges. The session was followed by a networking Hi-Tea interaction.
The programme brought together participants from handicrafts, skill development institutions, manufacturing units, students, and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue on skill enhancement and financial enablement for MSMEs.
The interactive session, held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, focused on strengthening industry-academia collaboration and improving access to financial and skill development opportunities for emerging enterprises.
During the session, RBL Bank presented a comprehensive overview of its banking services and financial solutions for MSMEs, with a particular emphasis on trade finance, forex services, and business banking facilities designed to support enterprise growth and international trade activities. The bank reiterated its commitment to the MSME sector and strengthening financial inclusion through customized solutions.
The session was also addressed by Shri Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, CEO, World Skill Centre, who highlighted the importance of industry-aligned skill development initiatives in enhancing employability and supporting entrepreneurship. He also graciously extended an invitation to members of WTC Bhubaneswar for a courtesy visit scheduled on 5 June 2026, aimed at further strengthening institutional collaboration.
The event witnessed the presence of Shri Sudhir Paul, Vice President, RBL Bank; Shri Dinesh Bhanja, Vice President, RBL Bank; and Dr. Rina Routray, Advisor, WTC Bhubaneswar and Chairperson, Mahila Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Odisha, along with active participation from WTC members representing diverse sectors.
Participants engaged actively during the Q&A session, discussing opportunities in skill development, financial planning, and MSME growth prospects. The session concluded with a Hi-Tea interaction, offering further opportunities for networking and collaboration among stakeholders.
18, May 2026
SVIS Hosts ‘Lab of the Future’ Experiential Learning Program Featuring AI, IoT, and AR/VR Technologies
Tirupati, May 18: Sree Vidyanikethan International School (SVIS) successfully hosted its flagship experiential learning program, ‘Lab of the Future’, a week-long, on-campus initiative designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to emerging technologies and innovation-led learning.
The program transformed the campus into an interactive learning environment, featuring dedicated stations and guided workshops across Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), and Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR). Students participated in live demonstrations, prototype building, and application-based learning modules, gaining practical insights into real-world technology use cases.
In addition to technology-focused sessions, students engaged in experiential activities such as rocket launches, drone assembly, aircraft exploration, and hands-on scientific experiments. These activities were aimed at strengthening problem-solving skills, encouraging analytical thinking, and fostering curiosity through practical engagement.
Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the initiative emphasized experiential, multidisciplinary learning, while creating early exposure to emerging fields in science, technology, and innovation.
Speaking on the initiative, Vinay Maheshwari, ED and Trustee, Sree Vidyanikethan Educational Trust, said, “Lab of the Future was conceptualized to create an environment where students can engage with technology beyond the classroom and gain firsthand experience of how these innovations work in the real world. The enthusiastic participation we witnessed reflects the growing interest among students in future-focused learning.”
18, May 2026
Electric Mobility Gains Momentum Amid Rising Fuel Costs and Strong EV Adoption in India
By: – Mr. Surendar Nath, Executive Director, ETO Motors
“As petrol and diesel prices continue to rise, we are witnessing a structural shift in the way businesses and consumers look at mobility. Fuel volatility is no longer a short-term concern but a long-term economic challenge impacting operating costs and transportation efficiency. In this environment, electric mobility is steadily emerging as a practical and future-ready solution.
The market momentum clearly reflects this transition. Recent FADA and Vahan Portal-based industry data shows that India recorded over 24 lakh EV sales in FY26, with electric three-wheelers continuing to lead EV adoption across the country. This highlights how commercial mobility is rapidly shifting towards cleaner, more economical, and operationally sustainable transportation solutions.
While challenges around charging infrastructure, financing, and ecosystem readiness still exist, EVs remain one of the strongest solutions to reducing long-term dependence on conventional fuels. Electric mobility offers lower running costs, predictable operating economics, and a cleaner transportation ecosystem, making it especially relevant for commercial mobility and fleet operations.
As fuel prices continue to place pressure on businesses and commuters alike, the EV industry is stepping up with scalable and cost-efficient mobility solutions that can help build a more resilient and sustainable transport ecosystem.”
18, May 2026
Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri Announces ‘GATI 2026’ – A Three-Day Festival of Indian Classical Dance and Music

May 18 | Siliguri, West Bengal: Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri is all set to present “GATI 2026”, its prestigious annual Festival of Indian Classical Dance and Music, from 5th to 7th June 2026 at Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri, beginning daily from 5:30 PM onwards.
Organised under the guidance of renowned Guru and Founder Vidushi Sangita Chaki, the festival has been celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage for the past 42 years, making it one of the region’s most respected platforms for Indian classical performing arts.
Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning movement and rhythm, GATI embodies the spirit of Indian classical traditions through an immersive showcase of dance, music, and folk artistry. The three-day cultural celebration will feature acclaimed artists, distinguished musicians, and vibrant performances representing diverse classical forms from across India.
The festival will also host a special evening dedicated to Indian classical instrumental and vocal music featuring celebrated maestros:
- Sitar: Pt. Sandeep Neogi
- Sarod: Pt. Sunondo Mukherjee
- Tabla: Pt. Subir Thakur, Pt. Subir Adhikari & Shri Riju Saha
- Harmonium & Vocal: Pt. Sourav Chakraborty
GATI Festival 2026 – Day Wise Highlights

5th June 2026 | Day 1
The inaugural evening will begin with devotional and classical presentations including:
- Ganesh Vandana
- Guest Felicitation
- Maha Ganapati Shlokam
- Pushpanjali
- Nagendra Haray Shiva Stotram
- Ananda Nartana Ganapati Kirtanam
- Jatiswaram
- Tillana
- Provincial Folk Dances from Different States
Guest Artist: Shri Rahul Dev (Kathak, Agartala)
6th June 2026 | Day 2
The second day will feature an elaborate Kathak repertoire and traditional rhythmic compositions including:
- Shiva Vandana
- Felicitation Ceremony
- Guru Charanam in Trital
- Trital Sidhya Nritya
- Jhaptal Sudha Nritya
- Darbari Tarana
- Ektal Shudhyo Nritya
- Rupak Sudhyo Nritya
- Chautal Sudha Nritya
- Trital Sudhya Nritya
- Thumri
- Provincial Folk Dances from Different States
Guest Artist: Shri Shuvojit Dutta (Kathak, Kolkata)

Gati 2026 Festival | 7th June | Day 3
1. Vandana
2. Felicitation
3. Anandanartana Ganapati kirtanam
4. Pushpanjali
5. Kalyani Jathiswaram
6. Prabhumpranath Keertanam
7. Jhaptal sudhya nritya
8. Vasant Jathiswaram
9. Kathak in Dhamar sangita chaki
10. Odissi guest performance smt pushpita misra
11. Niratata shankara.
12. Tandav and lasya in Dhamar and rupak
13. Bharatnatyam – Guru Vidwan Praveen Kumar
14. Gajal
15. Layadisha
16. Kathak -Guru Vidushi Gouri Diwakar Delhi
17.Ganga a musical journey concept and music arranger Shri Subrata De and Dance director Vidushi Sangita Chaki
18. Vande Mataram – Voice & Script written by Shri Anshuman Paul and Sanchita Bhattacharya Dance Director Gurur Vidushi Sangita Chaki
RSVP
Vidushi Sangita Chaki
Founder, NrityaMalancha Siliguri
Contact: 9434006943
Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions