31, Mar 2026
Bitget Partners with IIT Delhi to Advance Web3 Education in India
New Delhi, Mar 31: Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) to host a blockchain seminar and workshop under its Blockchain4Youth programme. The campus session brought together more than 280 students for a workshop focused on blockchain fundamentals, decentralized systems, and emerging opportunities in Web3.
Held on March 27, the event drew participants from leading institutions including the Indian Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT Delhi), Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT), University of Delhi (DU) and other institutions across the capital. More than 650 registrations were recorded for approximately 300 seats, highlighting strong demand for structured blockchain education among Indian students.
Blockchain4Youth is Bitget’s global initiative dedicated to expanding blockchain literacy through campus engagements, workshops, and long-term support for young builders entering the digital asset ecosystem. India remains one of the most active regions for technical talent and early-stage blockchain participation, making university engagement an important part of long-term ecosystem development.
“India continues to stand out for the depth of technical talent entering blockchain,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.
“What stood out at IIT Delhi was the curiosity students approached the discussions with. Blockchain4Youth is designed to create early access to knowledge and help young builders understand where decentralized technologies are moving beyond theory into practical infrastructure.”
Speakers at the event underlined the long-term importance of sustained ecosystem investment in Indian talent. Vinayak Kalra, founder of KaiFoundry, noted that the level of curiosity and ambition among students reflected how quickly India’s next generation of blockchain talent is emerging, adding that initiatives of this kind are important if leading Web3 organizations want to invest meaningfully in the country’s talent pool. The event also drew strong attention from ecosystem contributors present at the session. Sahil Thakur, founder of BlockseBlock, pointed to the turnout as evidence that blockchain interest on campuses is increasingly driven by long-term curiosity rather than short-term market cycles.
Bitget’s Blockchain4Youth programme continues to expand through partnerships with universities and educational communities worldwide, with a focus on expanding blockchain access and supporting the next generation of developers and entrepreneurs.
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- By Neel Achary
31, Mar 2026
Government Keeps Small Savings Scheme Interest Rates Steady for April-June 2026
New Delhi, March 30: The government on Monday announced that interest rates for various small savings schemes will remain unchanged for the eighth consecutive quarter, starting April 1, 2026. The decision covers popular schemes such as the Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (NSC), and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY).
A notification from the Finance Ministry stated that the interest rates for the first quarter of FY 2026-27 (April 1 to June 30, 2026) will stay the same as those applicable in the previous quarter (January-March 2026).
Key interest rates include:
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY): 8.2%
- Three-year term deposit: 7.1%
- Public Provident Fund (PPF): 7.1%
- Post Office Savings Deposit: 4%
- Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP): 7.5% with maturity in 115 months
- National Savings Certificate (NSC): 7.7%
- Monthly Income Scheme (MIS): 7.4%
The decision reflects the government’s focus on stability and predictability for small savers, providing a reliable avenue for long-term investment. These schemes continue to play a key role in encouraging financial discipline and savings among individuals, while offering safe returns amid broader economic fluctuations.
Experts note that keeping the rates unchanged benefits retirees, households, and risk-averse investors, who rely on these instruments for regular income and wealth accumulation.
With these measures, the government aims to maintain public confidence in small savings schemes and promote their continued use as a foundation of personal financial planning.
31, Mar 2026
India’s Semiconductor Drive: Pioneering a Self-Reliant Tech Future
India is no longer just a spectator in the global technology race—it is actively shaping the future. With a bold vision for the 21st century, the country is making strategic moves to establish itself as a leader in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation, a sector that forms the backbone of modern technology.
The journey gained momentum in 2021 with the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). More than an industrial policy, the ISM was a statement of confidence, signaling India’s readiness to compete globally and become a reliable supplier of semiconductors. These tiny but critical components power everything from smartphones and laptops to automobiles, medical devices, and advanced defense technologies, making them indispensable in today’s digital world.
A major milestone in this effort is the inauguration of the Kaynes Semicon facility, a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub. This facility strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in chip production, reducing dependence on imports while creating a strong domestic ecosystem for design, fabrication, and testing. Experts say it marks a transformational step toward building a sustainable semiconductor industry in India.
The implications of this initiative extend far beyond manufacturing. By fostering domestic expertise, encouraging research, and attracting global investment, India is laying the foundation for a high-tech economy that can compete on the world stage. From supply chain resilience to job creation, the benefits of a robust semiconductor ecosystem are manifold, making India an active participant in shaping the future of global technology.
As the Prime Minister’s Office recently remarked, it is now “time to shape the future tech landscape.” With initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission and facilities such as Kaynes Semicon, India is demonstrating a clear commitment to innovation, self-reliance, and technological leadership—a strategy that promises to define the nation’s role in the global tech ecosystem for decades to come.
31, Mar 2026
ZEISS India Strengthens R&D Focus by Appointing Sharath Sirivolu to Lead CARIn
Bengaluru, Mar 31: ZEISS India, a pioneer of science in optics today announced the appointment of Sharath Sirivolu as the Head of Center for Applied Research in India (CARIn). This strategic appointment highlights the company’s commitment to strengthen its leadership to accelerate transformation through its dedicated research and development center in Bengaluru.
In this role, Sharath will report to Miguel Gonzalez Diaz, Managing Director, in India, and to Robin Schmidt, Head of Digital Health – MED segment, globally. He will also be a member of the India Leadership Team and a key partner in driving our culture and transformation agenda.
Santana Ramakrishnan, CHRO, ZEISS India shared,
“Innovation is at the core of ZEISS India’s DNA by shaping how we continuously evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly advancing ecosystem. We are delighted to welcome Sharath to the team at a time when we are strengthening our focus on building a future-ready research ecosystem. His extensive experience in leading global R&D initiatives will be instrumental in advancing ZEISS India CARIn’s journey. We are confident that his leadership will further accelerate our vision while contributing meaningfully to ZEISS’ global growth ambitions.”
Sharath will be responsible for the building-blocks of the MED digital ecosystem, made in India. Supporting the MED segment across devices, platforms and applications, he will lead CARIn’s transformation into a world-class R&D organization, building on its strong foundations and further strengthening CARIn’s value proposition for the ZEISS MED segment globally and in India.
With over 25 years of experience, Sharath brings deep expertise in leading R&D across global organizations such as GE Healthcare and Schneider Electric. He has delivered innovative solutions across healthcare, energy, and industrial automation sectors, as well as driving large-scale technology initiatives and incubating early-stage ventures that enable strategic growth and organizational impact.
ZEISS India remains committed to building a culture rooted in strong values, nurturing future-ready skills, and creating meaningful pathways for growth, while fostering a workplace driven by purpose.
31, Mar 2026
Harnessing AI to Revolutionize Organ Transplants in India
Bhubaneswar, March 31: Emphasizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, Subhasish Panda, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted how AI could significantly enhance organ transplantation in India. Speaking at a workshop-cum-regional Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on “Organ Transplantation and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare,” he said AI can integrate large datasets to support smarter, faster, and more informed clinical decisions.
“AI has the ability to revolutionize the organ transplantation ecosystem,” Panda noted. “It can streamline donor-recipient matching using genetic, clinical, and laboratory data, track organ availability in real time, optimize transport logistics for timely delivery, and assist clinicians through predictive analytics and intelligent dashboards.”
India currently ranks third globally in organ transplantation, with approximately 20,000 procedures performed in the past year. However, Panda expressed concern that 82 percent of donations come from living donors, with women representing the majority. He also highlighted that most transplants are conducted in the private sector, which affects affordability, and stressed the need for greater public awareness and increased participation from government healthcare institutions.
The programme was organized by AIIMS-Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). It brought together more than 300 doctors from Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand to discuss innovations in transplantation and the role of AI in improving patient outcomes.
Panda’s remarks underscored the importance of combining technology, awareness, and policy support to make organ transplantation more efficient, accessible, and equitable across India.
31, Mar 2026
Odisha Governor Urges Stronger Awareness and Early Detection to Fight Cancer
On Monday, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati urged everyone to come together to fight the rising number of cancer cases in the state. Speaking at the “Cancer-Free Odisha” Awareness Conclave and the Mahanayak–2026 Awards, he said cancer is not just a medical problem—it affects families and communities across Odisha.
The Governor pointed out that lifestyle changes, tobacco use, environmental factors, and late diagnosis are contributing to the steady rise in cancer cases. He stressed that prevention is better than cure. By spreading awareness about healthy diets, physical activity, and avoiding tobacco, many cancer cases could be prevented.
He also emphasized the importance of early detection. Strong primary healthcare and wider screening, especially in rural areas, can help identify cancer early, improve survival rates, and reduce the emotional and financial burden on families.
Governor Kambhampati called for collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society to ensure cancer care reaches every corner of the state. He also congratulated the Mahanayak–2026 awardees for their contributions and encouraged continued efforts to create a cancer-aware Odisha.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Korei MLA Akash Dasnayak and former Balasore MP Rabindra Kumar Jena, while the welcome address was delivered by Asim Odisha Foundation Trust Chairperson Asima Das.
The conclave made it clear that tackling cancer in Odisha will require awareness, early detection, and the support of the entire community.
31, Mar 2026
Oil India Limited Partners with CSIR-IMMT to Boost Critical Minerals Research
Bhubaneswar, March 30: In a significant move to strengthen India’s strategic mineral ecosystem, Oil India Limited (OIL) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR–Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) to establish a Centre of Excellence for critical minerals.
The collaboration, formalized in Bhubaneswar, is aligned with the National Critical Mineral Mission under the Ministry of Mines and aims to enhance research, exploration, and processing of critical minerals, supporting the country’s self-reliance objectives.
Under this agreement, OIL will become the first “Industry Spoke” of CSIR-IMMT under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, creating a new model of partnership between India’s energy and mining sectors.
The MoU was signed by Saloma Yomdo, Director (Exploration & Development), Oil India Limited, and Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, in the presence of OIL CMD Ranjit Rath. Senior officials from OIL and CSIR-IMMT scientists, including Kali Sanjay and Satyajit Rath, also attended the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, CMD Ranjit Rath emphasized that the partnership would expand OIL’s role beyond hydrocarbons, boosting its contribution to the National Critical Mineral Mission. He also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in identifying mineral resources, noting that OIL has already pinpointed ten focus areas for technology-driven initiatives in consultation with the CSIR Director General.
Director Ramanuj Narayan underlined CSIR-IMMT’s expertise in research and technology solutions for the mining, minerals, and metals sectors, with a particular focus on critical minerals. He expressed optimism that the Centre of Excellence would drive innovation and support India’s long-term goals in mineral self-reliance.
This collaboration represents a strategic convergence of energy and mining expertise, aimed at strengthening India’s capabilities in critical mineral exploration and processing, while leveraging advanced technologies for sustainable resource development.
31, Mar 2026
ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited Secures Another ADAS Business Nomination from an Indian CV OEM
Chennai, Mar 31: ZF continues to work on its ADAS roadmap for commercial vehicles. Driven by increasing demand from India’s leading OEMs and evolving regulatory requirements, ZF Commercial Vehicles is steadily investing in and delivering ADAS innovations tailored to the needs of the commercial transport industry.
In India, ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited (CVCS) has recently secured a business nomination from a new-age mobility OEM to develop and supply an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite for its upcoming bus platforms.
At the core of the awarded solution is ZF’s OnGuardMAX, the company’s most advanced driver assistance platform for commercial vehicles. It integrates a front camera, mid-range radar and an image processing module to enable Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) along with a broad suite of advanced driver assistance functions.
Complementing OnGuardMAX, ZF’s Short‑Range Radar (SRR) provides near‑field coverage on the sides and front of the vehicle, addressing critical blind spots to protect vulnerable road users (VRU). The latest SRR generation is engineered to support compliance with MOIS and BSIS requirements. SRRs can also interface with OnGuardMAX to deliver extended coverage – an especially valuable capability for large bus platforms.
“ADAS was and remains a strategic priority for ZF Commercial Vehicles in India. With a legacy of deep customer understanding and proven technological competence that make commercial transportation safer, smarter and more efficient, we also offer ADAS solutions that fit the specific driving conditions in India and at the same time have the backing of our global expertise.” said Paramjit Singh Chadha, Managing Director, ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited.
“We see a rapid acceleration in India in the adoption of advanced driver assistance technologies that enhance road safety and operational efficiency. ZF Commercial Vehicles Division offers made-to-fit market solutions that address the specific needs of leading and new-age e-mobility OEMs with the strength of ZF’s global engineering expertise and combining it with deep regional insights. This enables Indian OEMs in meeting rising safety expectations and preparing the industry for the next level of automation.” Akash Passey, Non-Executive Chairman, ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Limited & President – ZF Group India.
Integrated Technology Highlights & Safety Benefits for India’s EV Buses
- OnGuardMAX multi-sensor fusion (camera + mid-range radar + image processing) enabling AEBS, LDWS and DDAW.
- Short-Range Radar (SRR) supports BSIS and MOIS requirements while enhancing VRUs protection. Up to three SRRs can be integrated to provide front and side blind spot coverage.
- EBS + ESC integration for precise, faster braking and improved vehicle stability, resulting in shorter stopping distances, controlled deceleration and better rollover resistance for EV platforms.
- Unified ADAS-braking-stability architecture delivers stronger collision avoidance performance, enhanced VRUs safety and improved stability across diverse operating conditions.
- Operational advantages include reduced accident exposure, optimized brake wear, lower downtime and more consistent route performance.
- India‑ready and regulation‑aligned fully compliant with GSR 184(E) requirements for AEBS, LDWS, DDAW, BSIS and MOIS, validated over 4,50,000 km and ARAI‑certified.
- Future‑ready and scalable, with platform architecture capable of supporting a comprehensive set of 16 advanced features which include key features AEBS, LDWS, DDAW, MOIS and BSIS.
Program Scope & Roadmap
The business nomination covers system supply, vehicle integration, calibration and validation for bus platforms, with SOP targeted for Q1 2027. The architecture is scalable to SAE Level 2 and engineered to support future automation requirements.
ZF Commercial Vehicles continues to advance the development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in India. ZF clarifies that the earlier press note referred specifically to the divestment of ADAS activities within ZF’s passenger car division. This divestment has no impact on ZF’s commitment to developing and supporting ADAS technologies for commercial vehicles.
ZF will continue its driver assistance and autonomous driving initiatives in the commercial vehicle sector with dedicated teams and governance fully retained within the Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division. These efforts span trucks, tippers, trailers, coaches and bus applications, bringing together global expertise with strong local validation capabilities to meet India-specific operating conditions.
ZF delivers ADAS solutions engineered to meet stringent current and future regulatory requirements. With globally proven reliability, inclusive system design and a strong commitment to road safety, ZF is helping drive India toward smarter, safer and more sustainable transportation – Redefining India’s Mobility
31, Mar 2026
IESA Hails Kaynes Semicon Inauguration as a Landmark in India’s Semiconductor Execution Journey
The inauguration, along with the commercial launch of the Multi-Chip Intelligent Module (MCM), underscores India’s growing strength in advanced packaging, system integration, and scalable semiconductor manufacturing. It reflects tangible progress on the ground as India builds a resilient and globally competitive semiconductor ecosystem.
The Kaynes semiconductor facility in Sanand, with an investment of approximately ₹3,300 crore, represents a decisive step beyond design into advanced assembly, testing, and packaging (ATMP). With an expected capacity of nearly 60 lakh chips per day, the facility will significantly boost domestic manufacturing capability while driving local economic development and strengthening ancillary industries.
As a valued member of IESA, Kaynes Semicon’s achievement highlights the increasing depth and maturity of India’s semiconductor ecosystem—from design and engineering to packaging and product commercialisation. The successful launch of the Multi-Chip Module is a strong indicator that India is now not only designing but also manufacturing sophisticated semiconductor products at scale.
Notably, the inauguration of two semiconductor facilities within a single month, with several more projects slated for rollout this year, reinforces India’s unwavering commitment to building a robust semiconductor ecosystem. This rapid pace of execution reflects strong policy alignment and effective coordination led by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), and proactive support from state governments such as Government of Gujarat. It sends a clear signal to global investors and industry stakeholders that India is accelerating from intent to sustained, large-scale execution in the semiconductor sector.
This milestone assumes even greater significance as India targets a $400 billion electronics market and a $103 billion semiconductor market by 2030. Achieving these ambitions will require sustained execution across the value chain, and developments such as Kaynes’ facility demonstrate that India is firmly on that path.
Strengthening domestic semiconductor capabilities will be critical for supply chain resilience, technological leadership, and the creation of high-quality skilled jobs. Importantly, India is now converting global supply chain shifts into a strategic advantage by building a comprehensive, end-to-end semiconductor ecosystem.
The transformation of Sanand from an automobile hub into a fast-emerging semiconductor cluster further reinforces the momentum of the Make in India vision and positions India as a credible and competitive player in the global semiconductor landscape.
31, Mar 2026
‘Odia Pakhya’ to Be Celebrated from April 1 to Showcase Odisha’s Culture and Heritage
The Government of Odisha will celebrate ‘Odia Pakhya’ from April 1 to April 14 with the aim of promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, lifestyle, food, and attire on a wider platform.
Announcing the initiative at a press conference held at Sanskruti Bhawan, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that a series of events will be organized across all districts of the state, including the capital city Bhubaneswar, with active participation from various government departments.
The celebration will begin on April 1 with Utkal Divas, observed by the Information and Public Relations Department. On April 2, the School and Mass Education Department will mark ‘Khadi Chuan Day’, welcoming young children enrolling in early education.
On April 3, the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department will promote traditional attire through ‘Ama Poshak Ama Parichaya’ (Our Dress, Our Identity) Day. This will be followed by a campaign on April 4 encouraging the use of Odia language in signboards.
To highlight heritage and fitness, a heritage run will be organized near historical sites on April 5, along with a cleanliness drive on April 6.
Further events include Children’s Storytelling Day on April 7, a blood donation drive on April 8, and a book-buying campaign on April 9 to encourage reading habits. April 10 will be dedicated to folk arts, celebrating Odisha’s traditional art forms.
The programme will continue with cultural events such as ‘Amrutapidhi Samaroha’ on April 11 and ‘Bandaniya Baraputra’ on April 12, honoring notable personalities.
On April 13, ‘Ama Ruchi Ama Khadya Day’ will focus on promoting traditional and local cuisine, highlighting Odisha’s diverse food culture.
The ‘Odia Pakhya’ initiative reflects the state government’s efforts to preserve and promote Odia identity, while engaging people across all sections of society in celebrating their cultural roots.
