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Tezos Middle East and Tezos Southeast Asia will focus on regional ecosystem development in key verticals such as gaming, capital markets, and art, with the Tezos Patronage Association helping ensure strategic alignment

Zug, Switzerland—9th April, 2026—The Tezos ecosystem is broadening its international institutional presence through new entities designed to attract builders, deepen ecosystem engagement, and incubate projects across the ecosystem. The establishment of Tezos Middle East, headquartered in Dubai International Financial Centre, and Tezos Southeast Asia, headquartered in Singapore, extends that effort into two regions with strong track records across key verticals, including gaming, DeFi, capital markets, and art. The Tezos Patronage Association (TPA) has also been established to help ensure strategic alignment across these independent entities.

Founded in 2017 and based in Zug, Switzerland, the Tezos Foundation has focused on advancing the long-term development of the Tezos ecosystem through strategic investment, research and development, and ecosystem initiatives. Tezos Middle East and Tezos Southeast Asia will complement that effort as independent entities designed to move quickly, develop domain expertise, and engage with promising projects and companies across the ecosystem. As a Swiss association, TPA will bring together major organizations focused on the growth and development of the Tezos ecosystem and help maintain strategic alignment among independent entities. In time, TPA may invite additional members to join the association, broadening participation and echoing the Tezos blockchain’s globally distributed structure.

Roman Schnider, Chairman of TPA, said, “Tezos has come a long way, from the early fundraiser to a global ecosystem powering DeFi, gaming, art, and real-world applications that benefit many. Today, we are proud to take the next step in that journey with the launch of the Tezos Patronage Association, a new Swiss industry association created to align and amplify efforts across the Tezos ecosystem, alongside new independent entities in Dubai and Singapore.

By establishing independent entities in two of the world’s most dynamic regions for blockchain development, we can engage faster, develop deeper expertise, and connect more effectively with the projects and companies shaping the future in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. For builders and partners in these regions, this means we are here, local, and ready to work with you. We are not slowing down in Europe or the US either; this is about expanding our commitment globally, one great project at a time.”

Tezos is supported by a number of organizations around the world, reflecting the ecosystem’s international scope. In addition to TPA and the entities announced today, the Tezos Foundation in Switzerland and the Digital Commonwealth Foundation (DCF) in Jersey continue to contribute to the ecosystem’s long-term development. Tezos Commons, a US-based organization, contributes community infrastructure, governance tooling, educational resources, and expertise around the Tezos protocol. While the organizations in Switzerland, Jersey, Dubai, and Singapore focus on ecosystem growth through strategic investment and ecosystem initiatives, Tezos Commons plays a distinct role in strengthening the ecosystem’s community and technical foundations.

Commenting on the launch, Arthur Breitman, co-founder of Tezos, said, “Tezos is a global ecosystem, and its institutional structure should reflect that reality. A more distributed model gives different organizations the autonomy to move quickly, develop domain expertise, and respond to opportunities as they arise. That kind of subsidiarity makes the broader Tezos effort more dynamic, more adaptable, and better positioned for long-term ecosystem growth and broader adoption.”

Delhi, Apr 09: Simple Energy, a home-grown Indian automotive company, has announced the launch of two retail stores in Delhi, marking its entry in the capital city. The East Delhi store in Pandav Nagar, launched in partnership with A&A Autocraft, spans 800 sq. ft. and is complemented by a fully equipped 650 sq. ft. service centre located 5.5 kilometres away, with a PAX capacity of approximately 15 people. The Dwarka Store, launched in partnership with Shri Radhey Motors, covers 900 sq. ft. and is supported by a 600 sq. ft. service centre situated right behind the showroom, accommodating around 20–25 people. These new stores, together with their dedicated service centres, form a strategic expansion to strengthen after-sales support and deliver a superior customer ownership experience. 

Designed with a modern, customer-centric layout, the store offers an immersive brand experience. It showcases a wide range of products from Simple Energy’s lineup, including the newly launched Simple One Gen 2, now available in two battery variants. The 4.5kWh battery variant offers an IDC range of 236 km, and the 5kWh battery variant promises an IDC range of 265 km. The store also showcases the Simple OneS Gen 2, offering an IDC range of 190km, along with a wide range of accessories.

Speaking about the launch, Suhas Rajkumar, Founder & CEO of Simple Energy, stated, “Delhi remains a strategically important market, driven by progressive EV policies and a fast-evolving mobility ecosystem. With the launch of our first Simple Stores in East Delhi and Dwarka, we are making Simple Energy more accessible to a wider set of customers across the city. By establishing a presence at two ends of the city, we are not just expanding our footprint but also bringing our vision of reliable, high-performance electric mobility closer to more riders. This expansion is another step towards our goal of 100 stores across India.” 

Currently, Simple Energy operates 68 outlets across 36 cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Patna, Bhopal, Agra, Goa, Vijayawada, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Kochi, and Chennai, amongst others. The company is rapidly ramping up its pan-India expansion. In the coming months, Simple Energy will expand into Nagpur, Ranchi, and Bhubaneshwar and more.

The Simple One Gen 2 is available in 4.5 kWh and 5 kWh variants, while the Simple OneS Gen 2 offers another option for riders. Customers can visit the store for test rides, explore accessories, or book their scooter. Test rides and bookings are also available online at https://www.simpleenergy.in/.

The Simple Energy Store in Delhi is located at: 63 A, Near to Swarup Honda, Block A, Pandav Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi – 110092 

The Simple Energy Store in Dwarka is located at: Plot No. K-1/1, Raja Puri, Uttam Nagar, New Delhi-110059 

 By- Sachin Sharma, Owner, The Coco Leaf Cafe, Gokarna

For years, travel was measured by how much you could squeeze into a limited window, more cities, more landmarks, more checkmarks. But in 2026, that mindset is steadily losing its appeal. A new generation of travellers, led by Gen Z, is choosing depth over distance, trading rushed itineraries for unhurried, immersive experiences. This shift, often referred to as slow travel, reflects a broader desire to connect more meaningfully with destinations, whether that means spending weeks in a single town, engaging with local culture, or simply allowing room for spontaneity. After all, as the thought goes, “kitni bhi koshish kar lo, kuch na kuch reh hi jaata hai”—and perhaps that’s exactly the point. In a world defined by constant motion, Gen Z is redefining what it means to truly “arrive.”

The Rise of Experiential Stays

One of the most defining shifts within slow travel is the growing preference for experiential stays over conventional hotel formats. Instead of opting for standardized, often compact luxury rooms, Gen Z travellers are actively seeking spaces that offer character, openness, and a sense of place, be it a homestay tucked in the hills, a coastal cottage, or a farm stay surrounded by nature. These stays go beyond accommodation; they enable travellers to engage with local communities, understand regional lifestyles, and participate in everyday cultural experiences. The appeal lies not in indulgence alone, but in authenticity, where the environment feels less curated and more lived-in, making the journey as meaningful as the destination itself.

Moving away from overtourism toward meaningful locations

Today’s travellers are increasingly conscious of the fatigue that comes with crowded hotspots, long queues, commercialised experiences, and a lack of genuine cultural connection. Instead, Gen Z is gravitating toward destinations that offer calm, authenticity, and a deeper sense of discovery. This is reflected in the gradual shift from places like Goa to quieter alternatives such as Gokarna, where the pace is slower and experiences feel more personal. By choosing offbeat destinations, travellers are not only escaping the chaos but also rediscovering the joy of exploration.  

The Rise of Spiritual and Intentional Travel

A notable evolution within slow travel is the shift from outward indulgence to inward exploration. Rather than being drawn solely to grand infrastructure or visually impressive stays, Gen Z travellers are increasingly prioritising experiences that nurture a deeper connection with themselves and their surroundings. This includes spending time at wellness retreats, spiritual centres, or serene natural settings that encourage reflection, mindfulness, and emotional reset. The focus is less on how a place looks and more on how it makes one feel, calm, grounded, and present. In choosing meaning over materiality, this generation is redefining travel as not just an escape, but a journey toward inner balance and personal clarity.

Curated Food Experiences as a Travel Highlight

Food is no longer just a part of the itinerary, it is becoming the experience itself. For Gen Z travellers, dining is deeply tied to discovery, storytelling, and connection, especially in coastal destinations where cafés and beachside spaces set the tone for the entire journey. Rather than opting for generic menus, travellers are drawn to places that offer inspired dishes, fresh ingredients, and a setting that feels immersive, think ocean views, open-air seating, and a laid-back, community-driven vibe. Beachside cafés, in particular, are emerging as cultural touchpoints where travellers can slow down, savour regional flavours, and engage with the destination in a more sensory way. It’s not just about what’s on the plate, but the atmosphere, the people, and the feeling of being truly present in the moment.

As travel continues to evolve, one thing is clear, today’s travellers are not just passing through destinations, they are seeking places that make them feel something. For hotels and cafes, this presents a unique opportunity to become more than just a dining stop, but a meaningful part of the journey itself. By creating spaces that embrace openness, authenticity, and thoughtful experiences, whether through food, ambience, or community, you become a place where travellers choose to pause, connect, and stay a little longer. In the era of slow travel, it’s these moments of stillness, warmth, and genuine connection that leave the most lasting impression. 

Bhubaneswar, Apr 9 (BNP): Odisha is witnessing a major boost in its textile and apparel industry, with significant investments creating thousands of new employment opportunities. A recently inaugurated project, with an investment of around ₹750 crore, has already generated jobs for over 5,800 youth. On Wednesday, the foundation stone for another unit of Page Industries was laid in Bhubaneswar, with a ₹258 crore investment expected to create 3,500 more jobs. The ceremony also marked the inauguration of an MAS India clothing factory in Bhubaneswar.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

The Chief Minister highlighted that the state government is focusing on weaving and apparel industries, where relatively low investments can generate high employment, especially for women. By promoting skill development, industrial growth, and women’s empowerment, Odisha aims to establish new apparel units across districts like Khordha, Cuttack, and Ganjam, boosting the local economy.

During the event, the Chief Minister interacted with young professionals from Salepur and Mayurbhanj working in Tamil Nadu’s textile industry to understand their expertise and work practices. The Minister of Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts, Pradeep Bal Samant, appreciated the government’s commitment to leveraging industry for job creation and skill development, calling Odisha’s textile growth a “golden chapter” in the state’s industrial progress.

Officials added that with multiple investment proposals amounting to nearly ₹7,800 crore under active consideration, the state is accelerating the expansion of its textile and apparel sector, creating opportunities for local talent, reducing unemployment, and positioning Odisha as a hub for sustainable industrial growth.

Kurkumbh, Maharashtra, Apr 09: Marking three decades of brand Gemini, Cargill today opened the doors to its Kurkumbh plant in Maharashtra, offering a closer look at its world class manufacturing standards, stringent food safety and quality practices, while outlining plans to strengthen its edible oils business in India through its flagship consumer brand, Gemini.

The visit was hosted by Dheeraj Talreja, Vice President & Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia, who shared Cargill’s growth priorities and strategic importance of Maharashtra market, where Gemini is a market leader. Well-known Marathi actor Priya Bapat also joined the visit along with select consumers, influencers and media, adding her perspective as a long-standing consumer of the brand.

Maharashtra is a key market for Gemini, where the brand has strong presence and consumer base.  With highest per capita GDP in the country, high consumption of multiple oils including sunflower, soybean, groundnut and cottonseed, Maharashtra is a strategically important geography and logistics backbone for Gemini’s diversified portfolio of cooking oils. Cargill has had manufacturing presence in Kurkumbh, Maharashtra since 2005. Today this plant employs over 500 people (full time and contractual), engaged in refining and packaging the full range of Gemini oils.

With a strong legacy of 30+ years behind us, Gemini is known for its unshakable consumer trust and superior product quality. As we look at the next 30 years, Gemini is transforming into a future ready edible oils brand, deeply rooted in India’s traditions, while evolving with modern consumers through premiumization, digital engagement, and presence on next generation distribution channels”, said Dheeraj Talreja during the plant tour.   

 Advancing Portfolio to Meet Health & Wellness Preferences

Gemini offers a comprehensive portfolio, including sunflower oil, soybean oil, groundnut oil, rice bran oil, kachi ghani mustard oil, vanaspati, and blended oils. The brand today reaches over 5 million households catering to diverse consumer needs and is available across 1 lakh+ retail outlets in the state.

With evolving consumer preferences towards premium, health led and lifestyle-oriented oils, Gemini is considering expanding into a range of premium cold-pressed oils. This reflects a premiumization push for the edible oil brand aimed at driving future growth, while focus on maintaining leadership across its core product categories of sunflower and soyabean oil continues.

Channel Expansion Across E-commerce and New-age Retail 

Gemini’s presence across e-commerce and quick commerce platforms is also being strengthened, indicating the growing online consumer purchasing pattern. While a large percentage of business is still driven by physical retail stores, Gemini recorded strong growth in its e-commerce business over the past year, increasing its contribution to overall sales. As online platforms gain momentum amongst urban audiences seeking convenience and easy product discovery, Cargill is also expanding across these channels to remain close to consumers.

Recognized for Food Safety and Quality

Cargill’s Kurkumbh facility has been recognized at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Food Safety Awards 2024, for ‘Outstanding Performance in Food Safety’ in the ‘Large Manufacturing Food Businesses – Fats & Oils’ category.

Gemini was also ranked as No. 1 sunflower oil brand in India in 2023 (extended for two years), as per a brand study by Consumer Voice, a Govt recognized testing organisation. These recognitions reflect the company’s adherence to stringent food safety protocols, consistent quality practices, and alignment with regulatory standards.

Community Development

As an active member of society, Cargill has been collaborating with local stakeholders and government programs on community programs in the state, focused on improving education, nutrition, and public health. Infact, Cargill leadership today inaugurated a school development initiative, Project Vidya Vikas, at the local State Reserve Police School, Daund which includes new playground flooring, provision of additional benches and building toilets for the school, benefitting over 1500 students from local communities.

Past initiatives include, ‘Badhte Kadam’, a program to address health and nutrition deficiencies among school children, reaching over 5,000 children in Kurkumbh over three years. ‘Project Sahyog’, a comprehensive village development program was implemented in Kurkumbh Village of Daund Block of Pune District. In addition, Cargill has been supporting maternal and child health programs by providing monthly micronutrient-fortified food and conducting awareness sessions on nutrition and healthcare in partnership with Anganwadi workers, benefitting over 4,200 beneficiaries across 168 Anganwadi centers. Cargill also supported local communities during the COVID-19 pandemic through relief initiatives, as part of its ongoing community engagement efforts.

New Delhi, Apr 9 (BNP): The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) intensified its monitoring efforts in 2025-26, conducting nearly 3.97 lakh inspections across food businesses nationwide.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

In partnership with state authorities, the agency tested 1,65,747 food samples up to the third quarter, finding 17.16% of them non-compliant with safety standards. These violations triggered swift regulatory and legal action to protect consumers.

State governments are actively supporting the enforcement drive, stepping up inspections, awareness campaigns, and guidance for food producers and retailers. Officials said the combined efforts aim to ensure safer food practices, improve compliance, and build public trust in food quality.

FSSAI’s strengthened approach highlights the government’s commitment to public health, encouraging businesses to prioritize hygiene and quality while maintaining accountability across the food supply chain.