18, Mar 2026
Saviynt Appoints Alex Lei to Drive Identity Security Growth Across Asia Pacific and Japan
Bangalore, Mar 18: Saviynt, a leading provider of identity security and governance solutions, announced the appointment of Alex Lei as Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ). Based in Singapore, Lei will lead the company’s regional sales organisation as enterprises across APJ accelerate investments in identity security to support cloud adoption, AI initiatives, and increasingly complex digital environments.
In his role, Lei will oversee customer acquisition, partner strategy and go-to-market execution across APJ. He will work closely with customers and partners to support organisations navigating rapid cloud adoption, the rise of AI-driven applications, and evolving cybersecurity risks. He will focus on expanding Saviynt’s regional footprint while strengthening engagement with enterprises seeking to modernise identity security.
“APJ is one of the fastest-growing regions for identity security as organisations modernise their digital infrastructure and adopt AI at scale,” said Todd Rotger, Chief Revenue Officer at Saviynt. “Alex has deep regional experience and a strong track record of building high-performing enterprise sales teams. His leadership will help us expand our presence and support customers navigating complex identity challenges.”
“I am excited to join Saviynt at a time when organisations are rethinking how identity underpins security and digital transformation,” said Alex Lei as Senior Vice President of Sales. “We are at the nexus of the digital revolution, where digital identity, identity security, and AI agents are becoming fundamental to enterprise resilience. Saviynt’s platform and vision position us strongly to support organisations across the fast-growing APJ market.”
Lei joins Saviynt with extensive experience leading enterprise technology and cybersecurity sales organisations across the region. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Sales for Asia Pacific and Japan at Ivanti, where he was responsible for regional sales growth and enterprise adoption of security and IT solutions. Prior to Ivanti, he held senior leadership roles at Proofpoint and Dell EMC, working closely with large organisations across the region on cybersecurity and digital infrastructure transformation.
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- By Neel Achary
18, Mar 2026
PM-KISAN 22nd Instalment Benefits Over 34 Lakh Farmers in Odisha
In a major boost to Odisha’s agricultural sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 22nd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on March 13, 2026. The disbursement directly benefited over 34 lakh farmer families in Odisha, providing a total financial assistance of approximately ₹684 crore.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The PM-KISAN scheme offers financial support of ₹2,000 per farmer per instalment, transferred directly to bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Nationwide, this 22nd instalment reached over 9.32 crore farmers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting the farming community across India.
At a state-level function in Bhubaneswar, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and other officials, highlighted the importance of this financial support. The funds help farmers purchase essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, thereby enhancing productivity and income.
In addition to PM-KISAN, the Odisha government runs the CM-KISAN scheme, which provides an additional ₹4,000 annually to eligible farmers in two instalments. Under the combined initiatives, over 51.54 lakh beneficiaries in the state have received more than ₹2,991 crore to date.
Chief Minister Majhi also urged farmers to ensure that their e-KYC, Aadhaar linking, and land record updates are completed to avoid any disruption in receiving benefits.
These initiatives reflect the state and central government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Odisha’s agricultural economy, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and provide financial stability to the farming community.
18, Mar 2026
Odisha Set to Benefit from Enhanced Rail Links with South and Northeast India
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday that the newly approved Amrit Bharat Express trains will significantly enhance rail connectivity across Odisha, linking the state more closely with key cities in Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, and Assam.
The first train, running between Podanur in Tamil Nadu and Dhanbad in Jharkhand, will make scheduled stops at Rayagada, Muniguda, Kesinga, Titlagarh, Bolangir, Bargarh Road, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Rourkela. This service will directly benefit seven districts in southern and western Odisha, including the historically underserved KBK (Kalahandi-Bolangir-Koraput) region.
“This train will not only improve convenience for passengers but also strengthen economic and social links between Odisha and industrial hubs like Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Ranchi, Bokaro, and Dhanbad,” Majhi said in a social media post, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the approval.
The second Amrit Bharat Express, operating between Kamakhya in Assam and Charlapalli in Andhra Pradesh, will pass through several districts in Odisha, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack, Khordha, and Ganjam. It will also stop at Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. This route aims to enhance connectivity between Odisha, Northeast India, and the southern states, providing better travel options for students, workers, traders, and tourists. The train departs from Kamakhya every Sunday and from Charlapalli every Wednesday.
Both trains feature modern LHB coaches designed for long-distance travel with improved comfort and safety. Passengers in general and sleeper classes will benefit from upgraded seating, ample luggage space, and enhanced onboard facilities, making travel more comfortable and affordable.
Officials from the East Coast Railway (ECoR) highlighted that these new services will boost mobility, promote tourism and pilgrimage, and support local economies by connecting people and regions more efficiently.
The introduction of the Amrit Bharat Express trains demonstrates a continued effort by the central government to strengthen Odisha’s railway infrastructure and accelerate regional development, bringing convenience, opportunities, and a modern travel experience to residents of the state.
18, Mar 2026
Pulmonology and the Global Respiratory Crisis: A Specialty at the Forefront
Pulmonology is one of the most vital specialties in respiratory care, often described as the medical detective of the respiratory system. Pulmonologists diagnose and treat conditions ranging from asthma to complex diseases such as lung cancer. Their role is especially critical in India, where NAPCON 2025 data shows that despite accounting for 18% of the global population, the country bears 30.2% of the global burden of chronic respiratory diseases. Millions live with asthma and COPD, many of whom remain underdiagnosed or lack timely access to lung-function testing. In critical care settings, pulmonologists are often among the first responders when patients struggle to breathe.
Highlighting the importance of the specialty, St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, highlights pulmonology as a field that combines analytical expertise, advanced diagnostics, and high-impact patient care. SGU alumnus and practicing pulmonologist Dr. Sámal Jakobsen, MD’ 13, notes the breadth of the discipline: “We see patients with cough, dyspnea, COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, pleural disease, and manage the initial workup for suspected lung cancer. We also provide outpatient care and even palliative care in patients’ homes.”
Tips for aspiring pulmonologists
For medical students considering this path, early preparation, strong clinical fundamentals, and real-world exposure are key to building a meaningful career in pulmonology.
1.Real-world experiences matter
Pulmonology is a deeply patient-facing specialty, often grounded in long-term care. Early real-world exposure can shape career choices in unexpected ways and highlight the importance of empathy and resilience in respiratory medicine. Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Jakobsen shares, “My time in Grenada shaped me as a lifelong learner. I learned the value of structured learning and the importance of working together with colleagues, which helped me succeed and continues to influence how I practice medicine today.” Such experiences can strongly shape a doctor’s approach to learning and teamwork throughout their career.
2. Strong internal medicine fundamentals are essential
A solid grounding in internal medicine lays the foundation for a successful career in pulmonology. Building core clinical skills early, such as detailed history-taking, thorough physical examinations, and essential procedures, is critical to confident decision-making and patient care. As Dr. Jakobsen notes, early in his training, he “mastered the basics: taking thorough patient histories, performing physical exams, and learning key procedures like blood draws, arterial blood gases, lumbar punctures, and pleural taps.” These fundamentals continue to underpin effective pulmonary practice.
3. Hands-on care and continuity define pulmonology
Pulmonology combines diagnostics, procedures, and long-term patient relationships, making it a distinctly hands-on and patient-centered specialty. Those who enjoy procedural work alongside sustained patient engagement may find the field especially rewarding, as it allows clinicians to make a tangible difference over time.
4. Respiratory care is a growing global need
Respiratory diseases remain widely underdiagnosed across the world, increasing the public health importance of pulmonology. Early and accurate diagnosis can significantly alter patient outcomes. Highlighting this gap, Dr. Jakobsen observes, “Many people never get proper workups, and COPD often goes undiagnosed. Quick diagnosis and treatment make all the difference.” This places pulmonologists in a critical position to improve care outcomes and address an expanding global health challenge.
A career that helps the world breathe better
Pulmonology is more than a medical specialty; It’s a calling to protect one of life’s most essential functions: breathing. For medical students ready to blend science, skill, and compassion, pulmonology offers a path that is as intellectually stimulating as it is profoundly human.
As SGU’s faculty and alumni continue to demonstrate, the field offers limitless opportunities to make a lasting impact, one breath at a time.
18, Mar 2026
No. 1 Live Seller Kim Gravel Launches Selling with Soul, Her Secret Playbook Behind $1B in Live Sales – and How to Master It
Credit: Sylvia Lee
LOS ANGELES, CA — March 18:
Kim Gravel, a Southern girl-next-door with no degree and no outside funding, cracked the code of live selling, generating over $1.4 billion in real-time sales and selling nearly 29.5 million units across The Kim Gravel Brand (Belle by Kim Gravel and Love Who You Are (LWYA)).
In a bold move that cemented her as a leading innovator in modern commerce, America’s top live seller, bestselling author, and entrepreneur, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, an eight-module digital course sharing the exact strategies behind her record-breaking success. The course launched on March 17, 2026, in conjunction with International Women’s Month.
As TikTok Shop, Amazon Live, and social commerce continue to rapidly reshape how consumers discover and buy products, live selling has emerged as one of the fastest-growing drivers of conversion in retail. However, as more creators and brands rush into the space without a clear strategy, audiences are growing increasingly skeptical of inauthentic influencer sales, and brands are struggling to build lasting trust and loyalty. Recognizing this gap, Gravel launched Selling With Soul, providing a roadmap to sell authentically and effectively.
Gravel’s live-selling achievements speak for themselves. On QVC, her highest-selling day came on March 5, 2023, with nearly $10.5 million in sales and 212,000 units sold, including $8.8 million from her Belle by Kim Gravel fashion line alone. In 2025, she headlined the first-ever KIM-A-THON, generating over $5.7 million in sales across 14 hours of programming. That year also featured back-to-back live audience shows with the highest live audience achievement rate of 2025, highlighting Gravel’s ability to engage viewers in real time across QVC’s platforms.
“Selling With Soul is built on the belief that live selling is a conversation, not a performance,” said Gravel. “When you focus on genuine connection and create a space where people feel valued, the audience responds, and the business grows in an authentic, sustainable way.”
Gravel’s story is as unconventional as it is inspiring. She spent a decade as a stay-at-home mom before building her business entirely on her own terms, proving that authenticity, consistency, and connection are the real currency of today’s digital economy. She is also the bestselling author of Collecting Confidence, the author of the children’s book Maribelle and the Manger, and the host of a top-ranked podcast. Selling With Soul is her first-ever course, designed to teach entrepreneurs, creators, and brands how to turn live selling into a human-centered, revenue-driving experience.
Who the Course is For:
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Entrepreneurs and creators ready to turn authenticity into profit
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Brands looking to build loyalty, trust, and community, not just clicks
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Anyone ready to step on camera with confidence and connect in real time
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Individuals who want to turn personality, presence, or purpose into impact and income
What Participants Will Learn:
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How to build emotional trust that drives long-term loyalty
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Mindset and presence techniques to show up authentically on camera
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Storytelling methods that turn real-life experiences into revenue-driving moments
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Step-by-step guidance on presenting live, engaging audiences, and building a loyal community
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The exact messaging formula Kim uses on QVC, Amazon Live, and TikTok Shop
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How to scale ethically, turning individual live moments into movements and superfans
As live selling continues to define the future of e-commerce, Gravel stands at the forefront, showing that real success is accessible to anyone willing to build trust, show up, and connect. Selling With Soul is more than a course—it is a blueprint for the next generation of entrepreneurs who want to thrive in today’s digital economy.
18, Mar 2026
Australia, Odisha Talks Focus on Clean Energy, Agriculture and Skill Development
In a step toward strengthening international cooperation, Bernard Lynch met Odisha Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo at Lok Seva Bhawan to explore partnerships in renewable energy, agriculture, and technological innovation.
Pic Credit: Pexel
During the discussion, Lynch appreciated Odisha’s strong performance in both energy and agriculture, noting that the state has surpassed national growth trends in the farming sector. He also highlighted the state’s progress in modernising its power infrastructure, which has enhanced electricity generation and transmission capabilities.
Responding to this, Singh Deo outlined the government’s recent initiatives to expand renewable energy production and promote clean energy adoption. He emphasised that supportive policies are being implemented to better utilise natural resources and accelerate sustainable development.
The talks also underlined Odisha’s agricultural achievements, with record production levels contributing to rising farmer incomes. Both sides expressed confidence that closer collaboration between Australia and Odisha would open new opportunities in clean energy, agriculture, and technology.
In a separate meeting, Lynch held discussions with Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, focusing on boosting industrial investment, skill development, and technical education. The engagement signals growing international interest in Odisha’s development trajectory and its potential as a hub for innovation and skilled workforce growth.
18, Mar 2026
Odisha Targets Rapid Gas Infrastructure Rollout with Single-Day Clearances
Pic Credit: Pexel
Amid growing uncertainty in global fuel markets, the Odisha government has stepped up efforts to build a robust and future-ready energy infrastructure by fast-tracking the expansion of city gas distribution (CGD) networks across the state. The initiative is aimed at improving energy security while promoting cleaner fuel alternatives for households, industries, and transportation.
The strategy was reviewed at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan. Senior officials, including Hemant Sharma and Usha Padhee, participated in the discussions alongside representatives from leading energy companies such as GAIL, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Adani Total Gas.
A key focus of the meeting was identifying and eliminating bottlenecks that have slowed the rollout of gas infrastructure projects. Delays in approvals for pipeline installation, coordination challenges among departments, and procedural inefficiencies were highlighted as major hurdles. In response, the government has introduced a time-bound clearance mechanism, directing municipal corporations and relevant departments to approve all pending pipeline-laying permissions within 24 hours. This step is expected to significantly accelerate project execution on the ground.
The expansion of CGD networks is central to Odisha’s broader push toward sustainable and diversified energy use. By promoting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for domestic and commercial use, the government aims to provide a safer, more convenient alternative to traditional cooking fuels like LPG. At the same time, increased availability of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is expected to support cleaner mobility solutions, particularly in urban transport systems.
Officials believe that strengthening last-mile connectivity will play a crucial role in ensuring widespread adoption of these alternatives. Efforts are being made to extend the gas pipeline network deeper into cities and emerging urban clusters, making clean energy accessible to a larger population. This expansion is also expected to benefit small and medium enterprises by providing a reliable and cost-effective fuel source.
The government has set an ambitious deadline of June 30 to achieve key milestones in infrastructure development. This sense of urgency reflects a proactive approach to reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels and insulating the state from external supply shocks. It also aligns with national goals of increasing the share of natural gas in the overall energy mix.
Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative is likely to generate economic opportunities. Infrastructure development, network maintenance, and increased industrial activity linked to gas availability are expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies. Moreover, improved energy access can enhance the ease of doing business, making Odisha a more attractive destination for investment.
Overall, the accelerated rollout of city gas infrastructure marks a significant step in Odisha’s transition toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future. By combining policy support, administrative efficiency, and industry collaboration, the state is positioning itself to meet rising energy demands while prioritizing sustainability and long-term growth.
18, Mar 2026
Nita M. Ambani Honoured at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences with 2025 Humanitarian Award
In a moment that celebrated compassion, leadership, and social commitment, Nita M. Ambani was honoured with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2025 at the campus of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences in Bhubaneswar.
The award recognises her extensive contribution to social development through the Reliance Foundation, where her initiatives have touched millions of lives across India. Her work spans critical sectors such as education, healthcare, rural transformation, women’s empowerment, and sports development—areas that directly impact communities at the grassroots level.
The honour was presented by Mohan Munasinghe in the presence of Achyuta Samanta, whose institutions have long been associated with inclusive education and tribal empowerment.
More than just an award ceremony, the event reflected a shared vision of building a more equitable society. Speaking on the occasion, Ambani’s recognition symbolised not only her leadership but also the collective efforts of countless individuals working under her foundation to bring meaningful change.
Over the years, her initiatives have focused on uplifting underserved communities—providing access to quality education, improving healthcare delivery in rural areas, supporting women to become self-reliant, and nurturing young sporting talent across the country. Her approach combines scale with empathy, ensuring that development is both impactful and inclusive.
The KISS Humanitarian Award is regarded as a tribute to individuals who dedicate their lives to social progress, and this year’s recognition of Nita Ambani underscores the growing importance of corporate-led philanthropy in shaping India’s development journey.
As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: meaningful change is possible when vision meets action, and when influence is used to uplift those who need it most.
18, Mar 2026
Major Industrial Investments Approved in Odisha, Boosting Jobs and Regional Growth
Odisha Clears ₹4,510 Crore Industrial Push to Drive Jobs, Regional Development, and Sectoral Growth
Pic Credit: Pexel
In a significant move to accelerate industrialization and create large-scale employment, the Odisha government has approved a diverse portfolio of investment projects across the state. The proposals, cleared at the latest meeting of the State Level Single Window Clearance Authority, represent a combined investment of ₹4,510 crore and are expected to generate over 10,000 jobs in 11 districts.
At the forefront of this industrial expansion is Century Plyboards (India) Ltd, which plans to establish a major plywood manufacturing facility in Koraput district. With an investment of ₹870.82 crore, the project is poised to strengthen the wood-based manufacturing ecosystem while also creating employment opportunities in one of the state’s relatively underdeveloped regions.
Complementing this, Pidilite Industries will set up a tile adhesive manufacturing unit in Balasore. Known for its leadership in construction chemicals and adhesives, the company’s investment is expected to support the growing infrastructure and housing demand in eastern India.
In the services and technology domain, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is set to establish a technology center in Khordha with an investment of ₹60 crore. This project highlights Odisha’s emerging position as a destination for knowledge-based industries and is likely to generate high-skilled employment opportunities.
The approved projects reflect a deliberate strategy by the state government to ensure balanced regional development. Districts such as Koraput, Kalahandi, and Balangir—traditionally considered economically lagging—have received focused attention in this round of approvals. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision to distribute industrial growth more evenly across the state.
Beyond these headline investments, the approvals span a wide range of sectors. In textiles, new ventures in weaving and technical fabrics are expected to boost manufacturing capabilities. The pharmaceuticals and medical devices sector will see fresh investments aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure and production capacity.
The metals and mining sector continues to attract strong interest, with multiple projects in steel and aluminum processing lined up in districts like Cuttack, Sundargarh, and Keonjhar. Meanwhile, green energy initiatives and chemical manufacturing projects, including a sulphuric acid plant and ethanol production unit, signal a push toward both industrial sustainability and value-added production.
Infrastructure development also forms a key part of the investment landscape. A logistics park in Sambalpur will enhance supply chain efficiency, while several new hospitality projects—including star-category hotels in Koraput, Bolangir, Bhubaneswar, and Puri—are expected to boost tourism and related services.
Overall, the latest round of approvals underscores Odisha’s growing attractiveness as an investment destination. With a mix of manufacturing, services, and infrastructure projects, the state is positioning itself for long-term economic resilience. By combining large-scale investments with a focus on regional inclusivity and employment generation, Odisha is taking a decisive step toward becoming a more balanced and industrially robust economy.
18, Mar 2026
Air India Express Wins Grand Prix and Two Silvers at Spikes Asia 2026 for ‘Inglish Dictionary’ Campaign
Mar 18: Air India Express has brought home one of the region’s highest creative honours, winning a Grand Prix and two Silvers at the Spikes Asia Awards 2026 for its culturally iconic ‘Inglish Dictionary’ campaign, created in partnership with Juice (an Omnicom Group Company, and a division of TBWA).
Recognised as the Asia-Pacific counterpart of the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Spikes Asia celebrates transformative creativity that shapes culture and pushes boundaries. This makes the wins even more meaningful for a campaign rooted deeply in India’s linguistic identity.
A playful yet profound tribute to the vibrant, ever-evolving English spoken across the subcontinent, the Inglish Dictionary reimagines local expressions that have become staples of India’s everyday conversations. With its witty definitions and visually stunning Sohrai-inspired design language, the Inglish Dictionary struck a chord across demographics, garnering over 25 million downloads and digital impressions within months of being launched.
The work continues its global momentum after making waves at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025, where it competed across categories such as Social Behaviour, Culture Engagement, Publication & Editorial Design, Books, Illustration, Copywriting and Art Direction.
The recognition at Spikes Asia adds to the campaign’s growing list of global creative honours. The work previously won two Baby Elephants and one Blue Elephant at the Kyoorius Design Awards 2025, and a Gold for Copywriting and three Bronze Awards for Illustration Design, Writing for Design and Art Direction at The Drum Awards 2025. It has also been recognised by The One Club for Creativity (ONE Asia) 2025.
Together, these recognitions reinforce Air India Express’ positioning as India’s most culturally engaged airline, celebrating authenticity, individuality, and the many ways India expresses itself.
On the concept and success of the campaign, Siddhartha Butalia, Chief Marketing Officer, Air India Express, said,
“The Inglish Dictionary is a cultural project curated as an extension of our brand proposition – celebrating diversity and inclusivity while reinforcing the spirit of exploration intrinsic to travel. The creative rendition incorporates indigenous art to bring to life the quirks of local linguistics. That it has captured the imagination of so many, reaffirms the belief that a distinctive expression of identity is a powerful differentiator juxtaposed against the mundaneness of conformity and prescriptive protocol.”
Reflecting on the creative journey, Russell Barrett, Chief Creative Experience Officer, Juice (an Omnicom Group Company, and a division of TBWA) said,
“The response to the Inglish Dictionary has been overwhelming and deeply affirming. It proves that when a brand speaks the language of its audience, the message resonates far more powerfully. The idea was to create something personal, playful, and instantly familiar, bringing people across the country together through a shared way of speaking.”
Over the years, a multitude of Indian words have found their way into English dictionaries. They can be found lounging in their ‘pyjamas’ on ‘verandas’ of ‘bungalows’, sipping fruit ‘punch’ while chomping down a ‘chutney’ sandwich. But the Inglish dictionary is about the words that we have made distinctly ours. The kind that captures not just how we speak but how we think and live. Like “biscoot”, Biscuit’s chaotic desi cousin that disintegrates into a hot cup of tea when you least expect it or “one-by-two”, our ingenious way of sharing food at restaurants to magically split one dish and turn it into two. There’s “Foreign Return”, our label for non-resident Indians who return to the country, and “time pass” – anything done just to kill time. This dictionary is a guide to the nuances of the language spoken by the second-largest English-speaking nation in the world, transforming familiar words and phrases into a celebration of identity, humour and heritage.
Printed as a limited-edition hardback collectible, the digital version of the Inglish Dictionary is available free on www.airindiaexpress.com/inglish-dictionary, inviting all Indians, international travellers, diaspora and Indophiles – to rediscover language, not as a tool of precision, but as an expression of play, people, and pride.
