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  • Laugh a little louder with Welcome To The Jungle

    Work calls. Endless Traffic jams. Busy with notifications. By the time the weekend arrives, most of us are looking for one thing, a reason to laugh. That’s where Welcome To The Jungle has found its audience.

    July 02: The Akshay Kumar-led comedy isn’t asking viewers to solve a mystery or sit through an intense drama. This isn’t that film. It simply throws them into two hours of comic confusion, outrageous situations and a cast that’s clearly having as much fun as the audience.

    The biggest surprise has been the reaction inside theatres. Reviewers and moviegoers alike have pointed to one thing – people are laughing together. Children are giggling at the visual comedy, parents are enjoying the one-liners, and fans of the original Welcome are smiling at the nostalgia packed into the film.

    Akshay Kumar is right at the centre of the madness, slipping effortlessly between action and comedy. His chemistry with Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal has become one of the film’s biggest talking points, while Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek and Kiku Sharda keep the laughs coming with perfectly timed comic moments. Add a barrage of mistaken identities, running gags and self-aware references to classic Akshay entertainers.

    Perhaps that’s why families have embraced it. In an age of dark thrillers and larger-than-life action spectacles, Welcome To The Jungle is happy being exactly what it promises – an entertainer that lets audiences switch off for a couple of hours.

    There’s an old saying that laughter is the best medicine. No film can make deadlines disappear or traffic move faster. But if it leaves you forgetting your week for a couple of hours and walking out of the theatre smiling, it’s done its job.

    Judging by the cheers, laughter and repeat recommendations coming from cinema halls, Welcome To The Jungle is proving to be just the prescription audiences were looking for this weekend.

    Directed by Ahmed Khan, the film brings together a formidable ensemble including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer Ji, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali.

    An Ahmed Khan entertainer, Welcome To The Jungle is presented by A.A. Nadiadwala, Cape of Good Films and Star Studio18 in association with Seeta Films and Rakesh Dang. The film is a Base Industries Group Production, produced by Rakesh Dang and Vedant Vikaas Baali, and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah.

    The film released in cinemas worldwide on 26th June 2026.

  • Group 108 With Max Healthcare Conducts Blood Donation Camp, Sees Participation from Over 100 Donors

    Group 108 With Max Healthcare Conducts Blood Donation Camp, Sees Participation from Over 100 Donors

     

    Noida/ Greater Noida, 02, July, 2026- Group 108, in association with Max Healthcare, organised a Blood Donation Camp across its project sites, Grandthum, Greater Noida West, and ONE FNG, Sector 142, Noida. The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from employees and members of the local community, with over 100 donors coming forward to donate blood and support a cause that can save countless lives.

    Open to the public, the camp was conducted under the supervision of experienced medical professionals from Max Healthcare, ensuring a safe, seamless and hygienic donation process. Donors also received refreshments and participation certificates in recognition of their contribution.

    The initiative reflects Group 108’s broader philosophy of creating developments that extend beyond physical infrastructure to nurture healthier, more connected communities. By collaborating with one of India’s leading healthcare institutions, the company sought to encourage meaningful civic participation while addressing the continuous need for voluntary blood donations.

    Dr Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “A blood donation drive is a simple initiative, yet its impact reaches far beyond a single day—it can offer someone a second chance at life. We believe the true measure of a community lies not just in the spaces we create, but in the values we nurture within them. Throughout the camp, what was especially encouraging was seeing people from different walks of life come together with a shared sense of purpose. That collective spirit is what makes such initiatives meaningful. We remain committed to creating platforms that inspire compassion, encourage responsible citizenship and contribute positively to the communities we are privileged to serve.”

    The successful completion of the blood donation camp adds another milestone to Group 108’s ongoing community engagement initiatives. As the company continues to shape integrated commercial destinations, it remains equally focused on creating opportunities that generate meaningful and lasting impact beyond real estate.

  • Kazakhstan President Awards AD Ports Group’s Managing Director & Group CEO Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi with the Order of Friendship

    Kazakhstan President Awards AD Ports Group’s Managing Director & Group CEO Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi with the Order of Friendship

     

    Astana, Kazakhstan and Abu Dhabi, UAE – 02 July 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics solutions, announced that His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, has awarded its Managing Director & Group CEO, Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, with the prestigious Order of Friendship, for his role in advancing UAE-Kazakhstan cooperation in supply chain development.

    The award, presented during a ceremony today at the Presidential Palace in Astana, reflects international appreciation for Captain Al Shamisi’s support in advancing economic and trade cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Kazakhstan, where AD Ports Group over four years has made investment commitments of more than AED 2.9 billion in shipping, ports, and logistics businesses. 

    Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, said: “I am honoured to receive the Order of Friendship from His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This recognition reflects the strength of relations between the UAE and Kazakhstan and the success of our shared efforts in advancing trade and investment cooperation. We remain committed, under the wise guidance of our leadership in the UAE, to working with our partners in Kazakhstan to support impactful projects that enhance connectivity and contribute to Kazakhstan’s sustainable development.”

    AD Ports Group has a strategic presence in Kazakhstan, where its tankers transport Kazakh oil across the Caspian Sea to western pipelines in Azerbaijan, and where the Group is co-developing the Sarzha Grain Terminal at Kuryk Port with local partners, and operating a Central Asian logistics joint venture with KTZ Express, the freight unit of Kazakhstan Railways. The efforts support the commercialisation of the ‘’Middle Corridor’’ overland trade route connecting Asia, Central Asia, and Europe to global markets.

    In Kazakhstan, the Order of Friendship is awarded to distinguished individuals, diplomats, business leaders, and public figures who have made significant contributions to strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan and other countries, whilst promoting mutual understanding and collaboration at regional and international levels.

  • ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ Vision Gains Momentum with Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Aluminium Project: CM Mohan Majhi

    Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday said Odisha’s long-term development roadmap, ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’, has received a major boost with the launch of a Rs 1.10 lakh crore aluminium project, describing it as a landmark investment that will accelerate the state’s industrial transformation and economic growth.

    'Samruddha Odisha 2036' Vision Gains Momentum with Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Aluminium Project: CM Mohan Majhi

    The Chief Minister said the mega project reflects growing investor confidence in Odisha and aligns with the state’s vision of becoming a leading industrial and manufacturing hub by 2036. He noted that the investment is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, strengthen downstream industries, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.

    Majhi said the project would not only enhance Odisha’s position in the aluminium sector but also promote infrastructure development, technological advancement, and inclusive growth in the region. He emphasised that the state government remains committed to providing a business-friendly ecosystem and ensuring the timely implementation of major industrial projects.

    Highlighting the objectives of the ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ vision, the Chief Minister said the roadmap focuses on sustainable industrialisation, employment generation, infrastructure expansion, and balanced regional development. He added that the government’s proactive policies and investor-friendly initiatives are helping attract large-scale investments across key sectors.

    The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the aluminium project would serve as a catalyst for Odisha’s aspiration of becoming a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive economy by 2036.

  • Work-Study Dual Model: A Bridge to Fill Academics & Industry Gap

    Sricity International University launched

     

    Sri City, Tirupati District, AP — July 02 — Sricity International University (SIU) was formally launched today at its Interim Campus by the Hon’ble Minister Shri Lokesh Nara – Minister for HRD, IT E&C and RTG, Government of Andhra Pradesh, in the presence of SIU’s Global Advisory Council, Governing Board, and Industry Partners. 

    SIU is pioneering a new education system of Work-Study Dual Model in India — designed from the ground up to ensure that every graduating student is employable with industry relevant skills.

    The launch comes at a defining moment for Indian higher education. India produces more than nine million graduates every year, yet only about 42.6% are assessed as employable; more than half of those who do find work are in roles below their qualification, and over 80% of employers report serious skill gaps. SIU calls this the Bharat Employability and Jobs Challenge — and has been established to solve it..

    In the Work-Study Dual Model, students spend roughly a third of their time learning on campus and the remainder working as interns with industry partners. While interning at Industry Partners, students are paid a minimum stipend of ₹10,000 monthly from the very first year. The Industry Partners are expected to increase the stipend amount as the student productivity improves with experience. At SIU, a four-year degree student graduates with about 2+ years of real work experience.

    The curriculum is co-designed with industry partners and updated annually to keep pace with the rapidly evolving AI-driven industrial landscape, ensuring that students acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies demanded by the future of work.

    To promote Entrepreneurship, SIU has already set up an Incubation Center (Station-S) at its campus. Around 10 startups have commenced operations with the support of Station-S & Gnan Circle Ventures, a Cat-I Venture Capital Fund.

    Andhra Pradesh leading the way on Employability Skills

    “Our young people have the ability and the ambition; what they need is an education that connects directly to work… Andhra Pradesh is proud to lead the nation in solving this challenge.”—Shri Nara Lokesh -Hon’ble Minister for HRD, IT, E&C, and RTG, Government of Andhra Pradesh

    Sricity International University launched

     

    An ecosystem that makes the model possible

    What makes this model possible is the extraordinary ecosystem of Sri City, where more than 200+ companies from over 30 countries operate across a wide range of industries. Few places in the country — or the world — bring industry and education together so closely. Students at SIU will learn and work alongside leading global companies right where they study, and Andhra Pradesh is proud to be home to an institution that turns this advantage into real opportunity for our young people.

    — Shri Nara Lokesh Hon’ble Minister for HRD, IT, E&C, and RTG, Government of Andhra Pradesh

    Employable from day one

    A four year degree student graduates with 2+ years of real work experience, earned through paid internships from the very first year — and combined with a curriculum designed together with the industry, that makes our students highly employable. Beyond industry aligned skills, we focus on building strong life skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, giving every student a firm foundation to build a career — or to create jobs for others.

    — Srini Raju Chairman, Sricity Education Foundation & SIU Governing Board

    Programmes and admissions

    SIU is offering four undergraduate programmes for the 2026–27 academic year:

    • B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering— School of Technology & AI

    • B.Tech in Advanced Manufacturing— School of Advanced Manufacturing

    • BBA in Finance & Accounts— School of Business

    • BBA in Digital Media & Communications— School of Nova Media

    Admissions for 2026–27 are now open.Students can apply online at www.thesiu.org. Admissions enquiries: +91 8977763331 / +91 8977763332

    Email:admissions@thesiu.org

     

  • Big Tech’s Dollar 80 Billion Investment Set to Power India’s AI Growth

    New Delhi, : India’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is set to receive a significant boost, with global technology companies collectively committing nearly $80 billion in investments, strengthening the country’s position in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

    The large-scale investments are expected to accelerate the development of AI infrastructure, expand data centre capacity, and support innovation in emerging technologies such as machine learning, cloud computing, and automation.

    Industry experts believe the influx of capital will help India enhance its digital capabilities, create new job opportunities, and foster a strong ecosystem for startups and research in AI-driven solutions.

    Officials noted that these investments reflect growing global confidence in India’s technology landscape and its potential to become a major hub for artificial intelligence development in the coming years.

    The move is expected to further strengthen India’s digital transformation journey and support long-term economic growth driven by advanced technologies.

  • India Exports Punjab Litchi to Oman for the First Time

    New Delhi, July 2: In a significant boost to India’s agricultural exports, fresh litchis from Punjab have been exported to Oman for the first time, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday.

    The milestone marks an important step in expanding the global reach of Indian horticultural products and strengthening India’s presence in international fruit markets. Officials said the export reflects improved supply chain efficiency, quality standards, and growing global demand for Indian produce.

    The initiative is expected to benefit farmers in Punjab by opening new export opportunities and enhancing income prospects through access to overseas markets.

    The government has been focusing on promoting agricultural exports through better logistics, compliance with international standards, and strengthening trade partnerships with importing countries.

  • India’s Auto Industry Expected to Maintain Strong Momentum in FY27: Report

    New Delhi, July 2: India’s automobile sector is projected to continue its strong growth trajectory in the financial year 2026–27 (FY27), supported by steady demand across key segments, according to a recent industry report.

    The report states that passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles are expected to drive overall growth, backed by improving consumer sentiment, stable economic conditions, and ongoing infrastructure development across the country.

    It further highlights that rising interest in electric vehicles, along with rural demand recovery, will play a key role in sustaining industry momentum in the coming year.

    Automobile manufacturers are also focusing on new model launches, technology upgrades, and capacity expansion to meet evolving market requirements and regulatory standards.

    Industry observers note that easing input cost pressures and improved supply chain efficiency are likely to further support the sector’s growth outlook in FY27.

  • Swiggy Dineout and Apsara Introduce ‘Play Pads’ to Make Family Dining More Creative and Engaging

    July 2 : Swiggy Dineout, the dining out vertical of Swiggy, today announced the launch of “Play Pads” in partnership with Apsara. This first-of-its-kind initiative has been curated to make dining experiences more engaging for families, encouraging children to explore creativity while they wait for their food to arrive, when dining at a restaurant. The collaboration is live in 55 partner restaurants across 8 cities in the country.

    With children increasingly turning to screens during restaurant visits, dining out can sometimes become challenging for parents with many of them having no option but to hand over their phones to keep the children occupied while the food arrives. Swiggy Dineout and Apsara recognised the need for meaningful, screen-free engagement that encourages creativity and helps families spend quality time together around the table. Play Pads offer children a creative alternative during family dining experiences with activity sheets paired with Apsara colour pencils, helping them turn waiting time into an opportunity for imagination and play.

    Speaking about the initiative, Dhruvish Thakkar, AVP Marketing and Revenue, Swiggy Dineout, said,

    “Every parent knows the moment when the food is on its way, the child gets restless and the phone comes out. With Apsara, we wanted to give families a better answer. Dining out with your loved ones is not just about the meal, it is about the moments created together. The PlayPad adds creativity to the table, makes the wait more enjoyable for kids and offers a calmer experience for parents and fellow diners. It is a small intervention, but it changes how a family meal feels. This is another step towards creating thoughtful experiences for our consumers, every time they step out.”

    Commenting on the collaboration, Aishwarya Shinod, Chief Marketing Officer at Hindustan Pencils, said

    “The collaboration reflects the brand’s belief that creativity begins with simple tools and meaningful moments. She added that the PlayPad encourages children to colour, solve puzzles and explore their imagination while families enjoy uninterrupted time together.”

    The initiative is designed to add a new layer of engagement to family dining out occasions by creating interactive experiences that spark curiosity, imagination, and conversations among children and parents.

  • Centre Fiscal Deficit Widens to INR 1.62 Trillion in Apr–May FY27

    New Delhi, July 2: India’s central government fiscal deficit widened to ₹1.62 trillion during April–May of FY27, driven by higher expenditure on subsidies and increasing interest payments, according to a recent report.

    The rise in deficit reflects increased government spending in key welfare and financial obligation areas during the initial months of the fiscal year. Analysts note that elevated subsidy allocations and debt servicing costs have contributed significantly to the widening gap.

    Despite the increase in fiscal deficit, overall expenditure trends remain aligned with budgetary commitments for the fiscal year. Officials are expected to monitor spending patterns closely in the coming months to maintain fiscal discipline.

    The report highlights the importance of balancing developmental expenditure with fiscal consolidation goals as the government progresses through FY27.