30, Apr 2026
RAKEZ to spotlight industrial growth and investment opportunities at Make it in the Emirates 2026
Ras Al Khaimah, Apr 30: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is set to participate in the fifth edition of the Make it in the Emirates exhibition, taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 4 to 7 May 2026, reinforcing its role in advancing the UAE’s industrial landscape and attracting high-value investments.
As part of its participation, RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad will join a panel discussion titled “Industrial Zones as Engines of Growth: Powering the UAE’s Industrial and Investment”, where he will share insights on how integrated economic zones are enabling sustainable industrial expansion and supporting long-term investor confidence.
The economic zone will also mark the occasion by signing lease agreements with companies across manufacturing and industrial sectors, highlighting continued demand for Ras Al Khaimah as a base for business growth.
During the exhibition, RAKEZ will showcase its comprehensive ecosystem designed to support investors across diverse industrial sectors. This includes advanced infrastructure, tailored solutions, and value-added services that enable businesses to establish, operate, and scale efficiently. With around 1,000 manufacturing companies operating within RAKEZ across sectors such as packaging, F&B, automotive, aviation, construction, and defence, the economic zone continues to contribute to Ras Al Khaimah’s broader manufacturing base of around 3,400 companies.
Companies operating within RAKEZ benefit from a cost-competitive environment, with development costs approximately 10% lower and operating costs around 50% lower than the regional average. In addition, seamless connectivity through ports and airports ensures efficient global market access, while an ecosystem built around sustainability supports businesses in translating ESG ambitions into practical operations. Networking platforms and B2B matchmaking initiatives further enable collaboration and growth within the business community.
Commenting on RAKEZ’s participation, Ramy Jallad said: “Our presence at Make it in the Emirates reflects the growing role we play in shaping the UAE’s economic future. What we are seeing today is a strong shift towards long-term, value-driven investment, where businesses are looking for stability, efficiency, and the ability to scale with confidence. At RAKEZ, we continue to focus on creating an environment where manufacturers and industrial players can operate with clarity, expand sustainably, and connect to global markets with ease.”
He added: “Through our integrated ecosystem and close engagement with our business community, we are enabling companies at every stage of their journey to grow and evolve. This is aligned with the UAE’s broader industrial vision and our ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives such as Operation 300bn.”
As RAKEZ continues to strengthen its presence at national platforms, its participation in Make it in the Emirates 2026 underscores its commitment to attracting high-quality investments, supporting industrial growth, and enabling local manufacturers to expand regionally and globally.
Industrialists are invited to connect with the RAKEZ team at Make It In the Emirates from 4 to 7 May at Stand 7-EN22 in Hall 7 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi.
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- By Neel Achary
30, Apr 2026
Govt Plans Rail Connectivity for Poonch, Rajouri and Uri: Vaishnaw
Jammu, Apr 30 (BNP): Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the government is working on plans to extend railway connectivity to remote and border areas of Jammu and Kashmir, including Poonch, Rajouri, and Uri in Baramulla district.
He informed that detailed project reports for these proposed rail links have already been prepared. The next step, he said, will be to move ahead with implementation to improve connectivity in these strategically important regions.
Vaishnaw made the announcement after inaugurating the first direct Vande Bharat Express service between Srinagar and Jammu. He highlighted that expanding rail infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir is aimed at improving travel convenience, strengthening regional connectivity, and supporting overall economic development in the area.
30, Apr 2026
AI and Design Trends Reshape India’s Smartphone Buying Choices
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): A recent industry report highlights a clear shift in how Indian consumers are choosing smartphones, with artificial intelligence features and design aesthetics playing a major role in purchase decisions.
The report indicates that buyers are no longer focusing only on price or basic specifications. Instead, they are increasingly drawn to smartphones that offer smarter AI-based features such as enhanced photography, improved battery optimisation, voice assistance, and personalised user experiences. These upgrades are making everyday phone use more convenient and interactive.
Alongside technology, design has become equally important. Consumers are showing strong preference for slim builds, premium finishes, and modern looks that match their lifestyle and personal style. This change reflects a growing demand for devices that combine functionality with visual appeal.
The findings also suggest that many customers are now willing to spend more for smartphones that deliver a better overall experience. This trend points to a gradual shift in the Indian smartphone market towards more premium and feature-rich devices, as user expectations continue to evolve.
30, Apr 2026
The Summer Ritual: Discovering Soulinaire Alibaug
Apr 30: Alibaug has always had a special kind of summer magic, and Soulinaire has quickly become the heart of that experience. Situated right on the Mandwa boardwalk, this flagship destination by IHCL is a stunning, two-storey retreat designed for those looking to swap the city’s hustle for sea breezes and poolside lounging. It’s a space that invites you to slow down, offering a front-row seat to the ocean that makes you want to stay just a little bit longer.
The space itself is built for easy, coastal living. You can spend your afternoon downstairs by the circular bar and indoor pool, or head up to the deck for a long lunch with uninterrupted views of the water. Every corner feels intentional yet relaxed, blending the polished soul of the Taj with the kind of barefoot luxury that Alibaug is famous for. It’s the perfect sanctuary to retreat to after a day in the sun, perhaps ending on a sweet note with the Mellow Mango Pista or the refreshing Chilli Guava or Jamun sorbets, or for a quiet moment before heading back to Mumbai.
At its heart, Soulinaire is about great food shared in good company. The menu is a thoughtful mix of global favourites and fresh local flavours, all served with the warmth and care you’d expect from India’s finest hospitality. Whether it’s a sun-drenched breakfast or a slow sunset dinner, it’s a place that encourages you to disconnect from the world and simply enjoy the moment.
30, Apr 2026
CISCE Declares ICSE and ISC Results 2026
Bhubaneswar, Apr 30 (BNP): The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has declared the ICSE (Class X) and ISC (Class XII) examination results for 2026 on Thursday at 11:00 AM, as per the scheduled timeline.
Students can access their results through the official CISCE websites by selecting the ICSE Result 2026 or ISC Result 2026 links and entering the required credentials to view their scorecards.
In addition to the official portal, results are also available through DigiLocker, where students can log in using their registered mobile number and Aadhaar details to download digital marksheets. Candidates can also check results via SMS by sending their unique ID in the prescribed format to the designated number. The UMANG mobile application further provides an option to view results by entering the student’s UID and index number.
The council is expected to release detailed statistics soon, including pass percentages, subject-wise performance, and toppers’ lists.
30, Apr 2026
MNP or Buy New SIM, Get 1 Litre Petrol Free’ Offer by Telangana Mobile Store Goes Viral!
Hyderabad, Apr 30 (BNP): A promotional campaign by a mobile retail store in Telangana has gone viral on social media after offering customers 1 litre of petrol free for porting their number through Mobile Number Portability (MNP) or purchasing a new SIM card.
The eye-catching advertisement, which reads “MNP or Buy New SIM, Get 1 Litre Petrol Free,” quickly attracted widespread attention online, with many users praising the innovative marketing strategy amid rising fuel prices. The unusual offer has sparked curiosity and generated heavy footfall at the store.
According to reports, the retailer launched the campaign to attract new telecom customers and boost SIM sales in a highly competitive market. With petrol prices remaining a major concern for consumers, the incentive resonated strongly with the public and gained rapid traction across digital platforms.
Marketing experts say the campaign highlights how small businesses are increasingly using creative local offers to capture consumer interest and build brand visibility.
The store’s identity and duration of the offer were not immediately confirmed, but the campaign has already become one of the most talked-about local promotional ideas in recent days.
30, Apr 2026
Penguin Random House India and Kuku FM Launch 12 Hindi Audiobooks from Exclusive Partnership
New Delhi, Apr 30: Penguin Random House India and Kuku FM have announced the launch of 12 Hindi audiobooks as part of their exclusive 15-title collaboration, marking a significant step in expanding regional-language audio content in India.
The newly launched audiobooks span a diverse range of genres, including mythology, memoir, biography, business, self-help, and science. Popular titles such as Ram ki Gatha and Jaya – Mahabharat Ka Sachitra Punarkathan by Devdutt Pattanaik, Tata Stories by Harish Bhat, and Make Epic Money by Ankur Warikoo are now available on the platform.
This initiative marks the first time these titles are being offered in Hindi audiobook format, reflecting Penguin Random House India’s strategic move to cater to evolving content consumption patterns and reach a wider, audio-first audience base.
Vidhi Nangia, Lead – Audiobook Division at Penguin Random House India, said the selection of titles was carefully curated to appeal to a wide range of listeners and represents a new phase in the company’s publishing journey, focused on immersive and high-quality audio storytelling.
Commenting on the partnership, Ankit Saraswat, Vice President – Business at Kuku FM, noted that the collaboration strengthens the platform’s position as a destination for premium content and supports its mission to deliver high-quality audiobooks to India’s rapidly growing regional-language audience.
The partnership underscores the rising popularity of audiobooks, particularly in regional languages, and highlights a shared commitment to making storytelling more inclusive and accessible across the country.
The remaining three titles from the 15-book Hindi audiobook slate are expected to be released in the coming months, further strengthening the presence of both Penguin Random House India and Kuku FM in India’s expanding digital audio ecosystem.
30, Apr 2026
Exit Polls Signal Tight Bengal Contest, BJP Sweep in Assam; UDF Poised for Kerala Comeback
New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): Exit polls for the 2026 Assembly elections have projected a dramatic political contest across five key regions, indicating a close fight in West Bengal, a strong showing for the Bharatiya Janata Party in Assam, a possible return of the United Democratic Front in Kerala, and continued dominance of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu.
According to multiple poll projections, West Bengal is headed for one of the most closely watched contests of the election cycle. Several surveys suggest the BJP may breach the long-standing bastion of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and challenge the ruling All India Trinamool Congress for power after 15 years. However, some polls have also predicted a strong comeback for the TMC, indicating a razor-edge battle in the 294-member Assembly.
In Assam, nearly all exit polls forecast a decisive return for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the BJP-led alliance, with projections suggesting a comfortable majority and a possible third consecutive term for the NDA in the northeastern state.
In Kerala, exit polls have largely indicated a return of the Congress-led UDF after a decade in opposition. If the predictions hold, it would end the Left Democratic Front’s tenure under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who had scripted back-to-back wins in 2016 and 2021.
Tamil Nadu is projected to remain with the ruling DMK-led alliance under Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, with most polls predicting the party could overcome anti-incumbency and secure another term. However, some projections also point to a strong debut performance by Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, adding uncertainty to the contest.
In Puducherry, almost all surveys predict that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance will retain power.
Political analysts cautioned that exit polls are only indicative and have previously missed actual outcomes in several major elections, including West Bengal in 2021 and parts of the 2024 general elections. Final results will be declared on May 4.
The outcome of these elections is expected to have far-reaching implications for national politics, setting the tone for upcoming state polls and shaping the political momentum ahead of future parliamentary contests.
30, Apr 2026
From Foster Care to Homelessness, “No Address” Exposes a Growing Crisis
The feature film ‘No Address’ delivers an emotional and urgent look at the pipeline from foster care to homelessness, and the courage to find a way out
Sacramento, Calif. – Apr 30 – May is Foster Care Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges faced by youth in the foster care system and the families, professionals, and advocates who support them. According to the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS), more than 320,000 children are currently in the U.S. child welfare system, with an average age of just eight years old.
Against this backdrop, Robert Craig Films’ feature movie No Address brings a deeply human perspective to the issue, illustrating how quickly a child’s life can be disrupted, and the critical role support and stability play in shaping a better future. The film has resonated with audiences, earning a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
“No Address humanizes the story of so many individual experiences of homelessness, and Lauren’s story begins with her entering the foster system,” said Robert Craig, Producer at Robert Craig Films. “It’s heartbreaking when children are left without support due to circumstances beyond their control.”
“Films like No Address are critical in helping people understand the real-life challenges foster youth face every day,” said Cheryl Williams, Founder of Fundamentals For Foster Care, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting foster youth through educational stability initiatives. “When young people age out of the system without strong support, they are at significantly higher risk of homelessness.
In No Address, actress Isabella Ferreira portrays Lauren, a young girl whose life is upended when her mother, her only family, passes away, forcing her into the foster care system. Her journey reflects one of many pathways into care, showing how quickly a child’s world can change. Through the support of those around her, Lauren begins to find stability, hope, and a path forward.
The film features an acclaimed ensemble cast including William Baldwin, GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Ashanti, Xander Berkeley, Beverly D’Angelo, and Ty Pennington, whose performances bring authenticity and depth to this powerful story.
Robert Craig Films invites the public to host their own group screenings of the movie as a step toward greater understanding of foster care and homelessness and a better future for those suffering. Information can be found at www.NoAddressMovie.com/
Through No Address and its broader storytelling initiatives, Robert Craig Films is committed to creating films that inspire empathy and meaningful action. Central to this effort is The Big 5 GIVEBACK, part of the No Address Movement, which pledges 50% of net profits from five No Address productions to nonprofit organizations and churches working to combat homelessness in their communities.
For streaming, rental, and purchase information for the feature film, NO ADDRESS, visit www.NoAddressMovie.com.
30, Apr 2026
LTM Recognized as a Market Leader in HFS Next gen IT Infrastructure Services, 2026 Report
April 30: LTM has been recognized as a Market Leader in the HFS Horizons: Next-gen IT Infrastructure Services, 2026 report by HFS Research.
The report evaluates global service providers across the IT infrastructure value chain, assessing their strategies, execution capabilities, go-to-market approaches, and overall market impact. It highlights key areas such as AI readiness, hybrid and distributed architectures, regulatory compliance, platform-enabled operations, and autonomous infrastructure models.
LTM has been positioned among a select group of Market Leaders for its advanced capabilities in delivering AI-native, next-generation infrastructure services at enterprise scale. The recognition underscores the company’s ability to move beyond traditional modernization toward intelligent, policy-aware infrastructure designed for evolving enterprise needs.
The report specifically acknowledges LTM’s strengths in AI-native infrastructure, agent-led operational models, and deep engineering expertise. It also highlights the company’s proven execution across hybrid, cloud, and edge environments, supported by live deployments, strategic ecosystem partnerships, and strong capabilities in compliance-driven industries.
Commenting on the recognition, Krishnan Iyer said the acknowledgment reflects LTM’s commitment to reimagining IT infrastructure as an intelligent, AI-driven foundation for enterprise transformation, enabling organizations to modernize with confidence and scale.
Ashwin Venkatesan noted that LTM is emerging as a front-runner in AI-native infrastructure, driven by its focus on agentic operations and platform-led execution. He further highlighted the company’s investments in BlueVerse and knowledge fabric as a shift toward system-level intelligence embedded within operations.
The recognition reinforces LTM’s long-term focus on infrastructure transformation, as enterprises increasingly address challenges related to AI adoption, regulatory complexity, sustainability, and cost optimization.
With continued investments in platforms, partnerships, and innovative operating models, LTM aims to support enterprises in building resilient, adaptive, and future-ready infrastructure ecosystems.
