Next Gen Consulting

Blog

  • The Growing Role of Water Testing Labs in Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Water Quality

    With increasing concerns over water pollution, industrial contamination, and public health risks, the role of water testing laboratories has become more important than ever. Water quality testing helps identify harmful contaminants, assess safety standards, and ensure that water is suitable for drinking, industrial use, agriculture, and environmental applications. As urbanization and industrial activities continue to expand, regular water monitoring has become a crucial step in protecting both human health and natural ecosystems.

    Choosing  the best water testing lab  is essential for accurate analysis and reliable results. Professional laboratories use advanced scientific techniques to test critical parameters such as pH, turbidity, heavy metals, microbial contamination, total dissolved solids (TDS), and chemical pollutants. These services help industries, households, and regulatory bodies make informed decisions about water safety while ensuring compliance with environmental and public health standards.

    The Growing Role of Water Testing Labs in Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Water Quality

    Water testing laboratories play a vital role in detecting contaminants at an early stage, preventing potential health hazards before they escalate. Contaminated water can contain harmful substances such as lead, arsenic, pesticides, bacteria, viruses, and industrial chemicals that may lead to serious diseases and long-term health complications. Through routine testing and laboratory-based analysis, these risks can be identified and controlled effectively.

    In industrial sectors, water testing labs support quality control, wastewater treatment monitoring, and regulatory compliance. Industries rely on laboratory analysis to maintain process efficiency, prevent environmental pollution, and meet discharge standards set by authorities. Similarly, municipal bodies use water testing services to ensure safe drinking water distribution and maintain public sanitation systems.

    Modern water testing laboratories also use advanced technologies such as ICP-MS, GC-MS, microbiological analysis, and real-time monitoring systems to provide highly accurate and timely results. These scientific methods improve contamination detection and help create data-driven water management strategies.

    As water quality challenges continue to grow worldwide, water testing laboratories remain a critical pillar of public health, environmental protection, and sustainable resource management. Their role in ensuring safe water access, preventing contamination, and supporting regulatory compliance makes them indispensable in building a healthier and more sustainable future.

  • Enterprise AI is burning tokens without context and teams are paying the price

    PALO ALTO, Calif. May 21, 2026 – DevRev, an AI-native enterprise software company transforming how teams and customers collaborate, today announced the newest release of Computer, by DevRev, its AI teammate for enterprise teams. The release addresses the three biggest failures of modern enterprise AI: models that have no memory of a business, insights that disappear the moment they leave a user’s screen, and AI that answers questions but can’t safely take action.
     
    The rest of the industry has responded to these failures by focusing on selling speed – working faster, producing more outputs, increasing token use – resulting in organizations running world-class models on ineffective infrastructure. The Upwork Research Institute states that 96% of C-suite leaders expect AI to boost worker productivity, but 77% of employees report AI has increased their workload. Focusing on metrics like speed and token volume – “token maxxing” – without clarity distracts from progress, and advocating for applying more compute to inadequate contextual data only produces more noise.The result: knowledge workers lose hours a day hunting for information across disconnected systems, and the people meant to benefit from AI are left holding the bill for its failures.
     
    Computer is built on a different philosophy: delivering both speed and clarity. This solves the context problem through “shared memory,” a curated, living picture of an organization’s data, how the organization works, and how its people interact. Shared memory is the architectural foundation that enables:
    • Precision: answers sourced from real business data, cited and referenced so teams can stand behind them. 
    • Efficiency: trusted answers at lower cost, lower token usage, no analyst required, full context on the first response. 
    • Safety: nothing goes out before a human approves it, with full audit trails and the ability to undo any agent action. 
     
    When AI has this context, it stops guessing and starts acting like a trusted member of the team. Reliable performance builds trust; trust unlocks action. That progression – from trusted answers to safe actions – is what makes multiplayer collaboration between humans and AI possible across every function.
     
    “Every AI company is selling speed, which is fueling the next enterprise crisis. This will be the latest form of workplace burnout if we don’t do something about it,” said Dheeraj Pandey, Co-founder and CEO at DevRev. “Speed without the right context is just faster noise, noise that overloads humans in the loop, and eventually breaks them. Computer is built on a different philosophy: work softer. Give AI the enterprise memory and shared context it needs to perform reliably, and then let it take action. Only then will your people have the confidence that the AI they use is performing the tasks they need it to, more accurately and with less handholding.”
     
    What is new in the newest release of Computer
    The evolution of shared memory at every level ensures that every Computer session now builds on the last. At the individual level, Computer learns how each person works, picking up where they left off with each new session. At the team level, the skills and AI agents one person develops become available to everyone. At the organizational level, institutional knowledge stays in the system permanently. When a top-performing rep leaves, their account knowledge does not leave with them.
     
    Before this release, AI insight disappeared the moment it left one person’s screen. Now the introduction of Multiplayer AI lets teams share a live Computer session where everyone sees the full context and continues the analysis together. Colleagues can question, build on, and correct reasoning in real time. In a 2025 study, KPMG and University of Melbourne reported that 57% of employees admit to using AI in non-transparent ways, including avoiding revealing when they have used AI tools to complete their work. Teams rarely benefit from one another’s AI work. Multiplayer AI changes the unit of attribution from “what I did with AI” to “what we did with AI, together.”
     
    Earlier versions of Computer answered questions and took single-step actions. The addition of the new desktop app shifts Computer from a question-answering tool to a content-producing system. From the in-app canvas, any user can generate complete, fully branded and formatted work artifacts grounded in real business data: competitive slide decks, QBR reports, structured dashboards, knowledge base articles, and multi-step workflows; these outputs are available in a variety of file formats, including PPT, HTML PDF, DOCX, and more. Skills and outputs built in the Canvas are saved at the user, team, or organization level and become reusable across the business.
     
    Agent Studio gives any team the ability to build, test in a sandbox environment, and deploy AI agents that take action across connected systems. Every action runs under individual user permissions, not a shared account. Every step is traceable, auditable, and reversible: if an agent makes a mistake, it can be rolled back.
     
    Key capabilities at a glance
    • Shared Memory: personal, team, and organizational memory that compounds over time
    • Trusted Answers: intent-aware search and consistent data answers. Same question, same answer, every time. Computer doesn’t guess – it knows, and it shows its work.
    • Safe Actions: governed, auditable actions across your systems. Computer acts on your behalf with guardrails, so teams move faster without risk.
    • Multiplayer AI: shared live sessions for human-to-human, human-to-AI, and team-wide collaboration
    • Skills – reusable workflows that any team can build, share, and deploy. One person’s expertise becomes everyone’s capability. Agent Studio allows users to build and deploy AI agents with sandboxed testing, full audit trails, and rollback
     
    Additional capabilities:
    • Text2SQL: analytical queries across structured data in plain language, no data analyst required
    • Connectors: Gmail, Outlook, Slack, Notion, Google Drive, Jira, Microsoft OneDrive, SharePoint, and any MCP-compatible tool
    • Usage-based pricing: that scales with adoption and not headcount
     
    With the newest release of Computer, the above capabilities are all generally available today.
     
    Results from customers in production
    More than 250 organizations have Computer live in production, with over 1,000 users onboarded since launched in September 2025. Customers include BILL, HDFC Bank, and FAME, spanning financial services, aviation, retail, and technology.
     
    The results Computer, by DevRev’s customers are reporting speak for themselves. Customers Pebl and Uniphore are resolving 85% of support tickets without any human involvement. BILL has achieved around $5M in operational savings. India’s largest airline went from kickoff to production in 14 days and selected Computer over Salesforce Agentforce in a head-to-head evaluation. A retail loyalty customer is saving $1.2M annually, with sales reps reclaiming six hours a week and the team reporting a 30% productivity boost. And FAME is saving users more than 10 hours a week, resolving tickets approximately 40% faster, and accelerating specific workflows by up to 75%.
     
    “Customer experience is a top priority for us, and AI presented a real opportunity to set a new standard while reducing cost,” said Steve Januario, CIO at BILL. “With DevRev, we’re seeing how agentic AI can actually reduce support costs and help customers get the answers they need faster, without compromising on quality.”
     
    Availability
    • Across web, mobile, and desktop. Use Computer from any device.
    • Inside the DevRev system of record apps. Existing DevRev customers can access Computer directly within their current workflow without switching surfaces.
     
    Resources
    Visit devrev.ai to learn more about the enterprise offering, book a demo, or start a free trial of Computer. 
     
    Usage-based pricing with plan and billing management are available at https://devrev.ai/pricing

  • Toyota Kirloskar Motor Reinforces Commitment to Biodiversity Conservation on International Day for Biological Diversity 2026

    Toyota Kirloskar Motor Reinforces Commitment to Biodiversity Conservation on International Day for Biological Diversity 2026

    Chandigarh, May 21: On the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) strengthens its commitment to preserving and improving biodiversity through initiatives aligned with the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050 (TEC 2050). Guided by its philosophy of ‘Respect for the Planet’ and rooted in The Toyota Way, the company continues to integrate biodiversity conservation into its manufacturing ecosystem, community engagement programs and environmental action plans. 

    Driving Biodiversity through Measurable Impact:

    TKM has undertaken several initiatives to enhance green cover, conserve natural resources and support ecological balance around its manufacturing facilities. Through large-scale tree plantation drives, water conservation measures, lake rejuvenation activities and habitat restoration programs, the company contributes towards preserving local biodiversity and strengthening environmental resilience.

    As part of its TEC 2050 challenge, TKM envisions transforming the Bidadi plant into a thriving green sanctuary through initiatives such as: 

    The Toyota Greenwave Project: This is our ambitious flagship initiative devoted to cultivating ecologically resilient habitats through Miyawaki afforestation and strategic green-belt development. It is a collaborative movement that unites the entire TKM community under a mutual vision of transforming the Bidadi plant into a thriving green sanctuary. 

    Today for Tomorrow: This program reflects our symbiotic relationship with environmental stewardship through large-scale conservation and biodiversity enhancement. We recognize that thriving ecosystems are foundational to supporting all forms of life and our initiatives are designed to strengthen this interdependence. 

    Education for Sustainable Development (ESD): We believe that meaningful and lasting environmental change begins with education. Through this program, we strive to inspire students to embrace a mindset of ecological responsibility and inculcate eco-conscious behavior.

    Building awareness and Future Stewardship: The company’s 25-acre Ecozone, an experiential ecological learning hub that supports both conservation and awareness, hosts over 650 native plant species (including 25 IUCN red listed species) and has documented around 400 faunal species (including 4 IUCN red listed species) since its establishment. To date, the Ecozone has engaged and inspired over 62,000 students and stakeholders on sustainable living practices. 

    Creating Green Ecosystems beyond the Boundary:

    Further reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, TKM has advanced large‑scale afforestation and ecosystem restoration programs both within and beyond its campus. During the reporting period, the company planted 747 saplings internally and 1,492 saplings externally. At the Channapatna Police Training School, TKM developed over 6.6 acres of land using the forest tree planting method, introducing approximately 4,090 saplings across 33 native species. This initiative is designed to prevent soil erosion, enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and support groundwater recharge, while fostering community participation and long‑term environmental stewardship.

    Expanding its community‑focused biodiversity initiatives, TKM has partnered with the Government of Karnataka to develop an Environment Theme Park and Experiential Learning Centre at Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Vanadhama, Savandurga. Developed in collaboration with the Karnataka Forest Department, the project enhances the park’s ecological, socio‑economic, and educational value. The initiative emphasizes ecological restoration, water management, biodiversity conservation, and the revitalization of heritage structures — creating a holistic model of community‑driven environmental responsibility. 

    Water, Energy and Waste: Advancing Resources Efficiency:

    Water stewardship remains a critical pillar of TKM’s environmental strategy. Nearly 89% of TKM’s water requirements are met through rainwater harvesting and recycled water. During the reporting period, the company utilized 1.73 million m³ of water, supporting its Zero Liquid Discharge goals. Additionally, TKM has achieved 100% renewable grid electricity across its manufacturing operations through which 509000 tCO2e emissions were avoided from manufacturing in the reporting year. It also maintains over 96% waste recycling, following a Zero Waste to Landfill approach.

    Beyond operational initiatives, TKM actively promotes responsible resource management through waste reduction, recycling, energy efficiency, and environmental awareness programs among employees and stakeholders. 

    Leadership commitment:

    Mr. B. Padmanabha, Executive Vice President and Director, Manufacturing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd., said, “Sustainability is deeply rooted in The Toyota Way and guided by our philosophy of ‘Mass Happiness for All.’ It shapes how we think, act, and create value across our ecosystem. Our journey towards a greener future is a shared commitment to the communities we serve and to future generations. Biodiversity conservation remains a critical pillar of this approach. Through our initiatives, we are building ecosystems while promoting greater environmental responsibility.” 

    Looking ahead:

    TKM remains committed to scaling its biodiversity and conservation initiatives through:

    • Expanded afforestation programs
    • Advanced water stewardship practices
    • Stronger community and government partnerships
    • Increased environmental education outreach 

    As India accelerates its journey towards a sustainable future, TKM continues to create a meaningful and lasting positive environmental impact—building ecosystems that benefit both people and the planet.

  • AD Ports Group and e& Deliver AI-Ready Terrestrial Digital Backbone Across Logistics Infrastructure

    Abu Dhabi, UAE – 21 May 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading global enabler of trade, industry, and logistics solutions, and e& UAE today announced the successful deployment of an AI-ready high-capacity terrestrial connection, linking major maritime and logistics assets across the Group’s portfolio.

    The new high-capacity network extends AD Ports Group’s terrestrial digital backbone to more than 1,000 kilometers, seamlessly connecting the Group’s strategically located assets in Abu Dhabi. This enables the continuous streaming of high-volume sensor data, video feeds, and IoT signals, creating a fully integrated environment ready for machine learning and automated decision-making.

    Designed for ultra-low latency, this high-bandwidth terrestrial connectivity establishes a robust foundation for AI models to process data and deliver real-time inference within milliseconds.

    AD Ports Group and e& Deliver AI-Ready Terrestrial Digital Backbone Across Logistics Infrastructure

    Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO – AD Ports Group, said: “The future of global trade is intelligent and predictive. Under the guidance of our wise leadership in the UAE, we are embracing and leading this change by collaborating with globally leading technology companies to help us ensure that digital intelligence remains at the heart of our operations, driving global trade and supply chain resilience.”

    Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, Group CEO, e& and CEO, e& UAE, said: “Advanced connectivity is now essential to the way major industrial and logistics hubs operate, scale and compete. Through this collaboration with AD Ports Group, e& UAE has delivered a future-ready digital backbone that powers speed, security and scalability, while creating the foundation for more advanced automation, analytics and AI-led operations.

    “With e&’s leadership in fibre connectivity, we are not just connecting infrastructure; we are shaping the future of trade, logistics, and innovation for the entire nation.”

    This strategic initiative marks another significant milestone in AD Ports Group’s digital transformation journey, further strengthening the Group’s digital resilience across its expanding global portfolio. In 2025, AD Ports Group announced the phased rollout of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity across its global operations, aimed at enabling real-time data exchange with vessels and delivering always-on connectivity for ports and terminals, driving new efficiencies and fuel savings.

    By integrating its terrestrial digital backbone with LEO satellite services and existing radio networks, the Group has established a resilient, multi-layered connectivity architecture that ensures sovereign, uninterrupted data flow under all conditions. 

  • Indian Markets End Flat Amid West Asia Tensions; Selective Buying Cushions Losses !

    May 21 (BNP): Indian equity markets ended largely flat on Thursday as geopolitical tensions in West Asia weighed on investor sentiment, while selective buying in broader markets helped benchmark indices limit losses and avoid a sharper decline.

    News In Pics

    The benchmark Sensex closed at 75,183.36, down 135.03 points or 0.18 per cent, while the Nifty 50 settled nearly unchanged at 23,654.70, slipping just 4.30 points or 0.02 per cent, reflecting cautious market participation amid global uncertainty.

    Market sentiment remained under pressure due to concerns over escalating geopolitical developments in West Asia, prompting selling in sectors such as information technology (IT), fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and financial services. Heavyweight stocks including Bajaj Finance, Infosys, Tech Mahindra and Hindustan Unilever emerged among the key laggards during the trading session.

    Despite weak benchmark momentum, broader markets showed resilience. Mid-cap stocks traded subdued, while small-cap counters outperformed and ended higher, indicating selective investor confidence in specific segments. Sectorally, the cement pack emerged as the top performer with gains of over 2 per cent, followed by strength in realty and metal stocks. On the other hand, FMCG and IT sectors witnessed notable selling pressure.

    The Indian rupee recovered strongly against the U.S. dollar to close at 96.15, registering gains of 0.68 per cent, while the India VIX, a measure of market volatility, eased by around 3.5 per cent, signalling a marginal decline in investor anxiety levels.

    Market experts indicated that near-term direction is likely to remain dependent on geopolitical developments, global central bank signals and macroeconomic indicators. Technically, analysts see resistance for Nifty in the 23,700–23,800 range, with the 24,000 mark acting as a key psychological barrier, while immediate support is placed between 23,500 and 23,600.

    Overall, markets remained range-bound as investors balanced geopolitical risks with selective domestic strength, keeping benchmark indices largely stable despite external headwinds.

  • NCDEX to Roll Out India’s First Weather Derivative Contract ‘RAINMUMBAI’

    Mumbai, May 21 (BNP): India is set to enter a new phase of climate-linked financial innovation with the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) preparing to launch RAINMUMBAI, the country’s first exchange-traded weather derivatives contract, on June 1, 2026. The pioneering product is designed to help businesses, investors and weather-sensitive sectors manage financial risks arising from monsoon uncertainty through a regulated market instrument.

    NCDEX to Roll Out India’s First Weather Derivative Contract ‘RAINMUMBAI’

     Representational image

    The launch marks a significant step toward integrating climate variability into India’s financial ecosystem, particularly at a time when erratic weather patterns and rainfall fluctuations increasingly affect agriculture, logistics, infrastructure and commodity markets. Linked to rainfall data, the contract will allow stakeholders to hedge against unexpected monsoon outcomes and minimise economic disruptions caused by excessive or deficient rainfall.

    Developed by National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Ltd, RAINMUMBAI is expected to create a structured and transparent framework for managing weather-related risks using market-based mechanisms. The initiative is also seen as a major move toward strengthening financial preparedness against climate-linked uncertainties while broadening the scope of derivatives trading in India.

    Industry experts believe the introduction of weather derivatives could benefit multiple sectors dependent on seasonal rainfall, offering a more predictable risk-management system and helping businesses make informed financial decisions during the crucial monsoon period. The development signals India’s growing focus on combining technology, finance and climate resilience in economic planning.

  • Texas Tech Receives Dollar 4.5 Million Grant to Advance Semiconductor Research

    Texas Tech University’s continued commitment to interdisciplinary research and hands-on fabrication has paved the way for another opportunity to perform critical work regarding wide/ultrawide (UWBG) semiconductors.

    A team of faculty from the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering received roughly $4.5 million from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) for a project titled “Research and Development of Wide/Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductor Materials, Devices and Applications.”

    TSIF grants are administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, within the Office of the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office. Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law the Texas CHIPS Act in 2023, establishing both the TSIF and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium, the latter of which the CHIPS office also supports.

    Stephen Bayne, vice president of National Security for Texas Tech and executive director of the Critical Infrastructure Security Institute, is the project’s lead principal investigator. Joining him are Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) Professors Ayrton Bernussi, Rui He, Ravi Joshi, Donald Lie and Hieu P. Nguyen; ECE Assistant Professor Taewoo Kim; and Global Laboratory for Energy Asset Management & Manufacturing Senior Director Argenis Bilbao.

    Over three years, the researchers will seek to increase Texas Tech’s capabilities to develop UWBG semiconductors for high-power/high-frequency electronics and optoelectronics (instruments that detect and control light).

    Nguyen said the group is excited and humbled to be a part of Texas Tech’s eminence in this growing field. 

    “At the same time, we feel a strong sense of responsibility: to translate discoveries into reliable, manufacturable technologies; to build workforce pipelines by training students and technicians, and to partner with industry and government to ensure our work delivers real-world impact for Texas and the nation,” he added. “This award validates our momentum and accelerates our ability to turn research into jobs, commercial opportunities and long‑term competitiveness in the semiconductor ecosystem.”

    This work will also support critical industries such as aerospace and defense by improving the performance and reliability of UWBG materials and high-electron-mobility transistors for harsh environments. 

    Other priorities for the award include strengthening communications through work on broadband high-efficiency power amplification and radio frequency and millimeter-wave components; enabling the creation of high-performance nanostructured light emitters and detectors and high-voltage devices; promoting the translation of research into commercial products; and building regional economic impact. 

  • Oil above US$100/bbl revives Windfall Tax Debate across Four Continents

    LONDON/HOUSTON/SINGAPORE, May 21– Oil prices above US$100 per barrel have triggered windfall tax proposals in Brazil, the EU, the US, and Australia. A new Wood Mackenzie report warns that fiscal policy design has a long-term impact on Upstream investment and production.

    The cycle is familiar. As oil prices push past US$100 a barrel, politicians demand a windfall tax on energy companies. But, by the time legislation passes, prices have often already peaked.

    That cycle is repeating in 2026. In recent weeks, Brazil introduced a temporary export tax. Five EU member states campaigned for reinstatement of the 2022-23 solidarity contribution levy (SCL). US senators relaunched a windfall tax bill targeting the largest oil producers and importers. The Australian senate debated a new gas export tax proposal.

    Wood Mackenzie’s May 2026 Fiscal Service report, drawing on its proprietary global database and analyses of upstream fiscal changes across more than 150 jurisdictions since 2002, finds some consistent patterns. Governments with flat tax rate systems are most likely to seek new windfall levies when prices surge. Those with progressive fiscal systems, where the government’s revenue share moves automatically with prices, rarely need to. Oil companies object strongly to fiscal disruption; when it occurs, they question future investment in the affected sector.

    “The current debate is following a script we have seen before, and the major uncertainty is how long the price spike will last. In the current situation, that depends on how long supply disruption lasts and if there is any lasting damage,” said Graham Kellas, SVP, Global fiscal research at Wood Mackenzie. “The longer prices stay elevated; the more governments are expected to act. The question is whether they can design something that works for the long term, or are they simply creating another measure that compounds future fiscal uncertainty?”

    The pace of legislative action is another problem. Designing and passing a windfall tax mechanism can take several months. Prices may have peaked by then. Many proposals are never implemented. Those that are, often raise far less revenue than governments initially projected.

    Key details

    • Legal exposure: Brazil’s export tax faces legal challenge, with cases related to its 2023 temporary tax still unresolved. The EU’s 2022-23 SCL is subject to ongoing proceedings with ExxonMobil. Algeria’s 2006 windfall tax went to international arbitration — PSC contractors won after six years.
    • Long-term returns: the largest companies measure returns over decades, not months, and target relatively stability over time, with price spikes balanced by price crashes.  An unpredictable fiscal environment disrupts that.
    • Long-term windfall tax policy benchmark: the UK’s proposed oil and gas price mechanism (OGPM), due to replace the energy profits levy by 2030, applies only above US$90/bbl for oil or GBP0.9 per therm (US$12/mcf) for gas, and only on revenue above those thresholds. It is predictable and can be built into investment models.

    Background

    Windfall tax episodes have recurred throughout this century. In 2006-08, new progressive taxes were introduced in Alaska, Algeria, China, Ecuador, Pakistan, and Venezuela. India’s 2022 windfall tax changed its rate every two weeks before being abolished in December 2024. The UK’s energy profits levy, also introduced in 2022, has had its rate, timeframe, and allowances changed multiple times. The longer prices stay elevated; the more governments are expected to act.

    –

  • JioHotstar’s Self-Serve Ads Platform Opens IPL Advertising to Regional Businesses Across India

    Small and regional brands gain access to premium OTT inventory traditionally reserved for large enterprise advertisers

    Mumbai: JioHotstar’s Self-Serve Ads platform is enabling startups, local enterprises, and regional brands across India to independently run targeted advertising campaigns during the IPL and other premium content — an opportunity traditionally limited to enterprise advertisers with large budgets and agency support.

    Regional businesses from Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, Kerala, and Delhi-NCR have already used the platform to reach audiences during IPL programming and regional entertainment content. Advertisers leveraging the platform include Oxycool (Goa), Chandukaka Saraf Jewels (Maharashtra & Karnataka), Deepa Silks (Tamil Nadu), Eden Realty (West Bengal), Air Bounce (Gujarat), Baby Memorial Hospital (Kerala), and Jas Honda (Odisha).

    Key highlights of the platform:

    Campaigns can be launched starting at Rs. 4,000
    Access to premium ad formats including pre-roll, mid-roll, and mobile-first integrations across sports, entertainment, movies, and regional content
    Granular targeting options, including regional language feeds; city, area, and pincode-level targeting; audience demographics and interests; device targeting; and team-specific IPL match targeting
    Performance-led models such as CPC (Cost Per Click) for optimized spends
    Regional brands can advertise during matches featuring their home teams, deepening local audience engagement during high-attention moments

    The shift reflects the broader democratization of digital advertising in India, with the rise of connected TV consumption, regional language viewership, and digital sports audiences opening up new avenues for smaller businesses to compete alongside national brands for consumer attention.

    Select advertiser experiences and regional success stories are currently being explored, offering a closer look at how digital sports advertising is helping small businesses strengthen visibility, customer engagement, and market reach during high-consumption events like the IPL.

  • Saint-Gobain strengthens regional footprint with new manufacturing facility in Ras Al Khaimah

    Saint-Gobain strengthens regional footprint with new manufacturing facility in Ras Al Khaimah

     

    Ras Al Khaimah, May 21: Global leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain inaugurated its new construction chemicals manufacturing unit in Ras Al Khaimah, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the UAE market and expanding its regional product range offer along with production capabilities.

    The facility inauguration ceremony was attended by Saint-Gobain senior leadership, including  Eastern Mediterranean and Middle-East CEO Antoine Ghazal and Gulf Countries CEO Emmanuel Jacquot, alongside  Consul General of France in Dubai and the Northern Emirates His Excellency Jean-Christophe Paris, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) Chief Experience Officer Ian Hunt, and key stakeholders from the construction sector.

    Located in RAKEZ’s Al Ghail Industrial Zone and developed across 15,000 m², the facility has been operational since the second quarter of 2025, manufacturing a comprehensive range of mortar solutions, including premixed plasters, tile adhesives and grouts, screeds, and more. With a monthly production capacity more than 10,000 tonnes, the plant serves customers across the UAE, while laying the foundation for further expansion through additional production lines and increased storage capacity.

    Emmanuel Jacquot said “As the world-wide leader in light and sustainable construction, we are completing our industrial set-up with our new plant of Construction Chemicals in Ras Al Khaimah. This new facility reflects our trust in the UAE’s long-term vision. Through this investment, we reaffirm our commitment to the UAE, strengthening local manufacturing, enhancing service capabilities, customer intimacy and contributing to the country’s industrial ambition.”

    Commenting on why the company chose Ras Al Khaimah, he added, “Our decision to establish operations in Ras Al Khaimah was driven by its strategic location, enabling greater customer proximity and faster, more responsive service to the Northern Emirates construction sites. This complements our existing large-scale manufacturing hubs in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, allowing Saint-Gobain to expand our reach and deliver more efficiently across the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah, and RAKEZ in particular, provided the right environment for this expansion—with strong industrial infrastructure, ease of doing business, and seamless establishment support. This has enabled us to develop a facility that aligns with our production and supply chain requirements while bringing us closer to our customers.”

    RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said: “Saint-Gobain’s new set-up marks another significant milestone for Ras Al Khaimah’s industrial sector and reflects the steady momentum the emirate continues to see in construction-related industries. Manufacturers today are looking for environments where they can scale efficiently, operate with confidence, and stay closely connected to their markets. At RAKEZ, we continue to strengthen the infrastructure, services, and industrial environment needed to support that growth journey over the long term.”

    The facility reflects the company’s continued investment in strengthening its regional manufacturing and supply chain capabilities and expanding its product range offer. With growing demand across the UAE’s construction sector, and notably for hospitality, non-residential buildings and infrastructures, the new plant enhances the company’s ability to serve key markets more efficiently while supporting future expansion plans from its Ras Al Khaimah base.