9, Nov 2026
Amit Shah Likely To Visit Odisha On November 28

Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to visit Odisha on November 28, State Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said on Monday.

News In Pics

 Representational Image 

Although the proposed visit is yet to receive official confirmation, Shah is expected to attend a series of government and party-related programmes during his stay in the State.

Speaking about the proposed visit, Harichandan indicated that the Home Minister may participate in official engagements as well as organisational activities of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Focus On Government And Party Programmes

Shah’s likely visit is expected to include meetings and interactions related to both administrative matters and the BJP’s organisational activities in Odisha.

The proposed engagements are also likely to provide an opportunity for discussions with senior party leaders on organisational issues and the party’s future strategy in the State.

Official Schedule Awaited

The visit is being viewed as politically significant for the BJP in Odisha, given Shah’s role in the party’s national leadership.

However, the detailed itinerary, including the venues and schedule of his engagements, is yet to be announced. Further clarity is expected once the official programme is finalised.

9, Nov 2026
Linette crowned champion as Chennai Open concludes its final edition in India

Linette crowned champion as Chennai Open concludes its final edition in India

Chennai, Tamil Nadu,  November 9, 2026: Magda Linette brought the curtain down on the Chennai Open’s journey in India with a remarkable comeback, fighting back from a set down to defeat defending champion Janice Tjen 5-7, 6-1, 6-4 in the singles final here at the SDAT Tennis Stadium on Monday. The Polish third seed completed the turnaround in two hours and 43 minutes, converting her first championship point to claim her fourth career WTA singles title and first of the 2026 season.

The final began at a high intensity, with Tjen showing the form that had brought her the title in Chennai last year. The 24-year-old Indonesian, currently ranked World no. 75, edged a closely contested opening set 7-5. Linette, ranked number 68 in the world, responded emphatically in the second, raising her level to take the set 6-1 and force a decider.

The turnaround was another demonstration of Linette’s resilience across the tournament. The 34-year-old Pole, who reached a career-high ranking of World no.19 in March 2023, came from a set down in each of her last three matches in Chennai to claim the title.

Linette’s all-round game was central to her turnaround. She served effectively, struck strong and deep groundstrokes, and was equally assured at the net with her volleys and smashes. A key tactical feature was the depth she generated with her shots to counter Tjen’s backhand slice, preventing the Indonesian from using it to disrupt rallies and dictate play. The players also had to contend with particularly hot conditions in Chennai.

The deciding set saw Linette move ahead 3-1 after breaking Tjen’s serve. The Indonesian fought back, breaking Linette in the sixth game to level the score at 3-3. However, the Pole immediately regained the advantage with another break in the seventh game. The 2023 Australian Open semi-finalist then showcased her touch and court awareness, drawing Tjen forward with a drop shot, sending her back with a lob before bringing her forward again with another drop shot, and finally finishing the rally with a backhand winner down the line. Serving at 5-4, she earned three championship points and converted the first to complete the victory.

The final was the first meeting between the two players on the WTA Tour. Tjen had arrived in Chennai looking to defend the title that brought her maiden WTA singles crown in 2025. That victory made her the first Indonesian woman in 23 years to win a WTA singles title. She reached a career-high ranking of World no. 35 in August 2026 and was bidding to add a second WTA singles title to her record.

The singles final was originally scheduled for Sunday, November 8, but was postponed to Monday, November 9, at 11AM due to rain and prevailing air quality conditions at the venue. Heavy smoke following Diwali fireworks had affected conditions at the SDAT Tennis Stadium, leading the organisers to reschedule the match.

For her title-winning performance, Linette received US$37,390 (approximately ₹35.13 lakh) and 250 ranking points. Tjen took home US$22,125 (approximately ₹20.78 lakh) and 163 ranking points as the runner-up.

The prizes were presented by TNTA President Vijay Amritraj in the presence of Mr. H. Shanker, Managing Director, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited; Ms. Mini T. M., Executive Director, Indian Bank; Mr. A. M. Banerjee, Chief General Manager, Indian Overseas Bank; and officials from the TNTA and the WTA.

The 2026 edition marked the conclusion of the Chennai Open’s association with India, with the tournament set to move to the Philippines in 2027.

SINGLES – FINALS RESULT

[3] Magda Linette (POL) def. [1] Janice Tjen (INA) 5-7, 6-1, 6-4

9, Nov 2026
THE 50 BEST VINEYARDS REVEALS THE 51-100 LIST FOR 2026

LONDON, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 50 Best Vineyards reveals the vineyards ranked No.51 to No.100 this year, ahead of the official awards ceremony in Santiago, Chile on 18 November. The extended list showcases leading wine tourism destinations across six continents and 20 destinations, voted for by The 50 Best Vineyards Academy, a global panel of more than 700 wine and travel experts.

The 50 Best Vineyards reveals the extended 51-100 list for 2026, spanning six continents and 36 wine regions.

  • The 51-100 list includes vineyards from 36 wine regions across the world
  • 34 of the vineyards are in Europe, followed by five in South America, five in North America, four in Oceania, and one each in Africa and Asia
  • There are 17 new entries from 15 different wine regions
  • 12 vineyards return to the ranking as re-entries

For the full 51-100 list, please see here.

Europe dominates the 51-100 list with 34 vineyards, including 13 new entries. France leads with 14 vineyards featured, eight of them new to the ranking. Among them is Château & Domaine de Briante in Beaujolais (No.51), the highest new entry.

Vineyards in Portugal and Italy each secure four places, including new entry G.D. Vajra in Barolo (No.58). England records three entries from Sussex, while Georgia’s Château Mukhrani in Kartli (No.55) achieves the highest rise among returning vineyards, climbing 20 places. New entries also include Sauska in Tokaj (No.74) and Santo Wines in Santorini (No.100).

South America welcomes two new entries with Susana Balbo Wines in Mendoza (No.80) and Haras de Pirque in Chile’s Maipo Valley (No.84). The United States records its strongest ever showing, with four vineyards featured. Canada is represented by Mission Hill Family Estate in Okanagan Valley (No.69).

Oceania features four vineyards across Australia and New Zealand. Vineyards in Africa and Asia each secure one place in this year’s list: Babylonstoren in Franschhoek (No.89) and Silver Heights in Helan (No.94).

Rikki Tidball, Managing Director of Awards & Rankings for The 50 Best Vineyards, says: “The vineyards featured in this year’s 51-100 list show that world-class wine tourism can be found in every corner of the globe. From historic houses in Champagne and Bordeaux to pioneering vineyards in China and Georgia, these destinations offer visitors a compelling sense of place alongside outstanding hospitality.”

The 50 Best Vineyards 2026 announcement can be followed via The 50 Best Vineyards social media channels on 18 November.

Media centre:

https://mediacentre.the50.com/

 

The 50 Best Vineyards 2026 Logo

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9, Nov 2026
VP C P Radhakrishnan to Visit Odisha on November 15 for MLA Orientation

Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Vice-President of India C P Radhakrishnan is scheduled to arrive in Odisha on November 15 for a two-day official visit, during which he will inaugurate a special orientation programme for newly elected legislators.

VP C P Radhakrishnan to Visit Odisha on November 15 for MLA Orientation

The programme will be held at the Odisha Legislative Assembly on November 16 and is designed to familiarise MLAs with the procedures, responsibilities and functioning of the legislature.

The training will place particular emphasis on first-time legislators, helping them understand constitutional provisions, Assembly rules and established legislative practices. It will also guide members on effectively participating in Question Hour, raising issues of public importance and performing their duties as elected representatives.

The Vice-President’s interaction with the legislators is expected to provide valuable insights into parliamentary traditions, democratic institutions and constitutional responsibilities.

Programme Ahead Of Winter Session

The orientation programme comes at an important time, with the winter session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly scheduled to commence on November 18. The session is set to continue until December 31.

The initiative is expected to help legislators prepare for the upcoming session by strengthening their understanding of legislative procedures and the role of elected representatives in the democratic process.

Detailed Itinerary Awaited

While the Vice-President’s arrival in Odisha is scheduled for November 15, the detailed itinerary of his two-day visit has not yet been finalised.

His scheduled engagement at the Assembly on November 16 will be a key highlight of the visit.

9, Nov 2026
Odisha’s Ranjan Mohanty Appointed International Judge of World Fitness Federation

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

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

 Representational Image 

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

International Recognition At Thailand Championship

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

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

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

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

Indian Contingent Delivers Impressive Performance

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

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

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

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

Nearly 30 Years Of Dedication To Fitness

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

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

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

9, Nov 2026
Bhubaneswar Diwali Fires: Government Office, Traveller Vehicle Gutted, Power Wires Burn

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

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

 Representational Image 

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

Government Sericulture Office Catches Fire

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

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

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

Electrical Wires Catch Fire in Bharatpur

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

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

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

Traveller Vehicle Reduced to Ashes

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

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

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

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

9, Nov 2026
UAE becomes first country outside Europe to implement eATA Carnet system

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

The UAE has become the first country outside Europe to implement eATA Carnet system

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Dubai Chambers

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

For more information, please contact:

Mohamad Mouzehem

mohamad.mouzehem@dubaichamber.com

 

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9, Nov 2026
Diwali Pollution in Odisha: Bhubaneswar AQI 242, Bileipada Records 288

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

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

 Representational Image 

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

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

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

Firecracker Smoke Leaves Bhubaneswar Residents Worried

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

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

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

Rising Pollution Raises Health Concerns

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

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

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

Enforcement Measures Under Scrutiny

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

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

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

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

9, Nov 2026
Making Your Home Safer for Aging Parents: Accessibility Renovations That Add Value

November 9, 2026: NEW YORK CITY, NY /As your parents age, their home should too. Accessibility renovations can make their cherished home safer and more comfortable. It can even add value to the property.

If larger renovations are on your radar, $10,000 personal loan can provide financing in the form of an upfront lump sum payment, which you repay in fixed monthly installments. That way, you can focus on the project itself rather than worrying about whether each expense is stretching your finances too thin. Here’s where to start.

Start with the bathroom

If there’s one room that deserves your attention first, it’s the bathroom. Wet surfaces and slippery floors can make bathrooms a risk factor for serious falls.

A few changes you might consider include:

  • Installing grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower
  • Adding a curbless or walk-in shower to eliminate the risk of tripping over a high tub edge
  • Swapping in a comfort-height toilet for easier sitting and standing

Improve doors and doorways

Standard doorways can be too narrow for anyone using a walker or wheelchair. Consider widening interior and exterior doorways for better access.

You can also swap round doorknobs for lever-style handles, which are easier to use for anyone with arthritis or reduced grip strength. Changing out hardware is a quicker, more cost-effective project that can still make a big difference.

Improve accessibility in homes with stairs

Stairs can make it tough to get around the house and can pose a major fall risk as homeowners age. Improving accessibility before stairs become a problem can help keep everyone safe.

Here’s what to consider:

  • Add a stairlift for multi-story homes
  • Install a ramp alongside or in place of steps
  • Move the bedroom or laundry area to the main floor to eliminate stair use entirely
  • At minimum, add sturdy handrails on both sides of every staircase

Brighten the area up

Poor lighting can lead to falls when obstacles are hidden in the dark. That’s why well-lit walking paths can help prevent accidents. As a bonus, a bright space feels much more open – which is a major plus if you ever decide to sell the home.

Here are some ideas to improve lighting:

  • Add motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms
  • Add sconces to boost brightness in stairwells and entryways
  • Make sure outdoor paths and entryways are illuminated at night

Smooth out the floors

Uneven surfaces and slippery rugs can be common and overlooked fall hazards. A few simple flooring changes may help reduce some of these risks:

  • Ditch the throw rugs that slide or bunch up underfoot
  • Replace high-pile carpet with smooth, slip-resistant flooring
  • Using nonslip flooring or textured mats in the bathroom and kitchen

Make the kitchen more functional

A full kitchen renovation might not be the most economical option for many families (though it can be great for resale value). But even a few practical tweaks can make your parents’ daily lives noticeably easier:

  • Lower one section of the countertop for seated meal prep
  • Add pull-out shelves to cut down on awkward reaching and bending
  • Swap in lever-style or motion-sensor faucets and easy-grip cabinet handles

Which upgrades are worth the investment?

For resale value, ADA accessible bathroom remodels yield a strong 60% average return on investment. Smart home features (like motion sensor lighting) are also affordable upgrades that may be appealing to potential buyers.

For immediate safety, grab bars, ramps, and stairlifts deliver real peace of mind, even if their resale impact is more modest.

You may find a balance between the two – tackling the highest-risk areas first, then chipping away at the rest as your budget allows.

Making it happen on a budget

Helping aging parents stay safe and comfortable in the home they love is one of the most meaningful things a family can do, but the cost can add up quickly.

If you’re working with a tight budget, it’s worth exploring your financing options, like a personal loan. You may even consider using a vacation loan to cover travel costs when visiting aging parents – freeing up more funds for the renovations.

No matter your approach, balancing safety and budget can provide more comfort and security to your loved ones.

8, Nov 2026
Roche opens up new possibilities for genomic research in Asia Pacific with next-generation sequencing technology
  • AXELIOS 1 introduces Roche’s proprietary sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology, designed for flexibility and performance to tackle a wide range of sequencing workflows with speed and accuracy
  • As APAC’s genomics capabilities expand, the platform offers researchers greater freedom to pursue studies of varying scale and complexity
  • Roche will bring together researchers and laboratory leaders at AXELIOS Days in Australia and South Korea this November to explore the technology’s potential for genomic research

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

Roche

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

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

A new approach to sequencing

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

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

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

Looking ahead for genomic research in Asia Pacific

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

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

About the AXELIOS 1 platform

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

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

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

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

About the sequencing by expansion (SBX) technology

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

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

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

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

About Roche’s Sequencing Portfolio

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

About Roche 

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

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

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

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

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

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

References

1

MarketsandMarkets (2026). Asia Pacific Next Generation Sequencing Market Size, Growth, Share & Trends Analysis. Available at: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/asia-pacific-next-generation-sequencing-market-58994317.html (Accessed 27 October 2026)

2

Roche Diagnostics (2026) Ultra-Sensitive ctDNA Detection and FFPE Tissue Profiling Using SBX-Duplex Whole Genome Sequencing. Presentation slides, webinar. (Accessed: 27 October 2026)

3

Roche (2026) Roche announces the launch of AXELIOS 1, a transformative next-generation sequencing platform. Available at: https://www.roche.com/media/releases/med-cor-2026-06-29 (Accessed: 27 October 2026)

4

Roche (2025) Roche presents major advances for its sequencing by expansion technology, including a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™, at the ASHG conference 2025. Available at: https://www.roche.com/investors/updates/inv-update-2025-10-16 (Accessed: 27 October 2026)

5

Roche Diagnostics (2026) AXELIOS 1 next-generation sequencing platform. Available at: https://diagnostics.roche.com/us/en/news-listing/2026/axelios-1-next-generation-sequencing-platform.html (Accessed: 27 October 2026)\

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Roche (2025) Roche announces new collaboration with Broad Clinical Labs to accelerate adoption of cutting-edge SBX sequencing technology. Available at: https://www.roche.com/media/releases/med-cor-2025-05-23b (Accessed: 27 October 2026)

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Wojcik, M.H. et al. (2025) ‘Toward Same-Day Genome Sequencing in the Critical Care Setting’, New England Journal of Medicine, 393(20), pp. 2063–2065. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMc2512825 (Accessed: 27 October 2026).

For further information please contact

Charlene Sng

Phone: +65 8128 5568

e-Mail: charlene.sng@roche.com  


Annette Lee

Phone: +65 9126 6233

e-Mail: alee@realchemistry.com