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After years of negotiations, international regulators may soon finalize rules governing deep sea mining. This mining would happen in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone between Hawaii and Mexico. The ocean floor in this region of the Pacific Ocean is blanketed with valuable minerals and metals including cobalt, nickel and manganese.

Proponents of this mining activity argue that access to these resources could reduce U.S. reliance on foreign mineral supply chains and spur a new wave of industrial development; however, environmental groups warn that mining the deep ocean could permanently damage fragile ecosystems that are still not well understood. 

For perspective on the economic stakes, geopolitical implications, and the likelihood of a global mining rulebook emerging, consider speaking with Danny Leipziger, Managing Director of The Growth Dialogue and professor of practice of international business at the George Washington University School of Business. Leipziger specializes in global economic policy, development finance, trade, and governance. 

 

 As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, it continues to be defined by intelligence, integration, and elevated expectations from homeowners. Professional smart home integrators are seeing clear shifts in how consumers want their homes to perform. Based on insight from across the industry, CEDIA – The Association for Smart Home Professionals™– has identified several key smart home trends.

Security Gets Smarter and More Predictive 

Artificial intelligence is shifting home security from reactive alerts to proactive, context-rich insights. New technology can distinguish familiar faces, vehicles, package deliveries and pets; flag unusual movement patterns; and dramatically reduce false alarms by analyzing behavior rather than simply detecting motion. Professional integrators report growing demand for solutions that unify cameras, sensors and analytics into a cohesive, easy-to-manage security ecosystem.

Design + Technology Collaboration Strengthens 

Home designers, builders and integrators are working together earlier in the renovation and construction processes than ever before. Nearly half of all whole-home remodels in the past two years incorporated smart home technology, and one-third of kitchen and bathroom remodels did the same. This collaborative approach ensures that connected devices are seamlessly integrated into a home’s design from the start, rather than treated as afterthoughts.

AI Assistants Advance the Coordinated Home 

Homeowners are increasingly looking for systems that think ahead rather than simply respond to commands. Emerging AI-driven home assistants are beginning to function as virtual household managers – coordinating HVAC, lighting, appliances, entertainment and security to optimize comfort and energy usage automatically. With this in mind, integrators are focusing more on networks, interoperability, and system design to ensure these intelligent environments run smoothly for homeowners.

Energy Management Accelerates 

Smart thermostats, energy monitors and intelligent plugs continue to be smart home stars—but economic pressures are pushing adoption even further. Consumers are prioritizing technology that meaningfully reduces waste and lowers utility bills, and integrators are responding by designing whole-home energy strategies that combine automation, monitoring and device coordination for maximum efficiency.

Circadian Lighting Gains Momentum

Smart lighting is evolving beyond simple on/off controls and rigid schedules to play an active role in supporting health and wellness. Circadian lighting systems automatically adjust color temperature and brightness throughout the day to align with the body’s natural rhythms, promoting alertness during the day and relaxation in the evening. As consumer awareness around the impact of light on sleep, mood and productivity continues to grow, integrators are seeing increased demand for professionally designed lighting solutions that balance aesthetics with wellness.

Across all of these categories, professional smart home integrators play a critical role in designing, installing and supporting the systems that power today’s smart homes. As homes grow more intelligent, the expertise required to keep them running smoothly grows as well.

“Upcoming smart tech innovations are looking to be the most advanced yet, but homeowners shouldn’t need to become experts to take advantage,” said Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO of CEDIA. “Professional integrators stay on top of the tech that homeowners want and ensure their smart home provides a simple, reliable and connected experience.”

The smart home continues to shift from a collection of gadgets to a unified, intuitive ecosystem. With expanding AI capabilities, enhanced interoperability, and deeper collaboration among designers and integrators, it is poised to deliver smarter, more efficient, and more personalized homes than ever before.

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Mumbai, Mar 07: Chairman of the Mahindra Group, Shri Anand Mahindra, has described the residents of Mawlynnong as a role model for the rest of India, drawing attention to the villages culture of shared responsibility and cleanliness.

In a recent tweet, Mahindra invoked the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” stating that it is “a proverb reminding us that responsibility is never individual; it belongs to the community.”  

“In Mawlynnong, Meghalaya, that idea shapes daily life,” he wrote. He observed that for the inhabitants of the Asias cleanest village, “cleanliness isnt a campaign. Its culture; rooted in shared duty, respect for nature, and collective dignity.” 

Mahindra further remarked, “If India is to transform its image it wont happen through slogans alone.” He added that transformation “will happen when we truly understand the proverbs meaning: change begins when everyone participates.”

“For being a role model for the rest of India, the residents of Mawlynnong are my #MondayMotivation,” he stated.

The remarks place the spotlight once again on Meghalayas Mawlynnong, widely recognised for its community-led approach to cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

Mar 07: The smartphone category in India has become increasingly competitive, with brands introducing devices that deliver features once reserved for higher-priced segments. From high refresh rate displays and capable 5G processors to large batteries and improved camera systems, budget smartphones are now offering users significantly better value.

Several leading smartphone brands have introduced new devices in this segment, providing strong options for consumers seeking reliable performance, long battery life, and modern connectivity.

Feature-Rich Devices Lead the Segment

realme C83 5G by realme

The realme C83 5G focuses on battery endurance and smooth display performance. It comes with a large 7000mAh battery, designed to support extended daily usage. The device also supports reverse wired charging.

For visuals, the smartphone features a 6.7-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and responsive interactions. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, ensuring stable performance for everyday apps and multitasking. The phone also includes a 5334mm² VC cooling system to manage heat during intensive use.

In the camera department, the device features a 13MP AI rear camera and a 5MP front camera, while the software experience is powered by realme UI based on Android.

Moto G35 5G by Motorola

The Moto G35 5G delivers a balanced smartphone experience with a focus on display quality and clean software. The phone features a 6.72-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, suitable for media consumption, gaming, and smooth navigation.

Powered by the Unisoc T760 processor, the device offers dependable performance for everyday tasks along with 5G connectivity. It runs a near-stock Android interface, providing a minimal and clutter-free experience.

The smartphone includes a 50MP primary camera paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens, along with a 16MP front camera for selfies and video calls. A 5000mAh battery supports full-day usage.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G by Samsung

The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G remains a strong option for users who prefer the Samsung ecosystem and long-term software support.

The smartphone features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colours and strong contrast. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor, delivering stable performance for daily tasks and social media applications.

The device includes a 50MP main camera, along with ultra-wide and macro sensors, while a 13MP front camera handles selfies. A 5000mAh battery with fast charging support powers the device.

OPPO K13x 5G by OPPO

The OPPO K13x 5G combines design, display smoothness, and everyday performance. The smartphone features a 6.72-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering fluid scrolling and responsive interactions.

It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, delivering stable performance and reliable 5G connectivity. The phone also includes RAM expansion technology, which helps improve multitasking.

For photography, the device features a 50MP AI rear camera and an 8MP front camera, while a 5000mAh battery ensures dependable all-day battery life.

Redmi 15C by Redmi

The Redmi 15C is designed for users seeking a dependable smartphone for everyday use. It features a 6.74-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and a large viewing area.

Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 processor, the device delivers stable performance for messaging, browsing, and light gaming. The smartphone also offers expandable storage, allowing users to store additional apps, photos, and media.

The camera system includes a 50MP AI main camera and an 8MP front camera, while a 5000mAh battery supports consistent daily usage.

Growing Competition in Budget Smartphones

With multiple manufacturers introducing feature-packed devices, the sub-₹15,000 segment has become one of the most dynamic categories in the Indian smartphone market. High refresh rate displays, larger batteries, and 5G connectivity are increasingly becoming standard features, offering consumers more value and performance than ever before.

As competition continues to intensify, users can expect further improvements in performance, camera capabilities, and software experiences across budget smartphones in the coming months.

Mar 07: Zara has unveiled its new store at Inorbit Mall, introducing the brand’s latest global retail concept and strengthening its presence in the city. Spanning more than 21,000 square feet on the ground floor, the store features two independent entrances under a single portico, offering direct access to the Women’s and Men’s sections.

 The new store brings together fashion, architecture and technology, offering an extensive range of collections for women, men and kids. Customers can also explore a dedicated Shoes & Bags area along with fragrance sections across departments, creating a comprehensive shopping experience.

Designed by Zara’s Architecture Studio, the store reflects the brand’s latest global flagship concept. The interior features expansive interconnected rooms framed by portal structures, creating open and fluid spaces that enhance movement between the three main sections. Open ceilings contribute to a sense of spaciousness, while curated furniture elements define different zones within the store.

The design highlights a refined material palette with neutral tones complemented by natural wood in varied finishes, black metal detailing, stainless steel and subtle ceramic accents. Lighting plays a significant role in shaping the ambience, combining deep black ceilings with focused light accents. In the Women’s section, younger collections feature stainless steel finishes and an industrial-inspired aesthetic, while the Shoes & Bags area includes stepped display platforms and central leather seating to enhance comfort and product display.

The store also integrates advanced technological features to deliver a seamless omnichannel shopping experience by connecting physical retail with the brand’s online platform through zara.com and the Zara mobile app. Customers can browse inventory in real time, locate products quickly and collect online orders within two hours.

Key services available in the store include dedicated pickup points for online orders, assisted checkout areas with accessible payment stations, and assisted return points designed to simplify and speed up returns.

The store also promotes sustainability through initiatives such as a cardboard recycling point for online packaging and a used clothing collection container that enables garments to be reused through charity partnerships. Customers can also access Zara’s repair booking service and the brand’s online Pre-Owned platform for garment resale.

In line with Zara’s sustainability commitments, the store incorporates advanced energy efficiency solutions including optimized heating and cooling systems and reduced lighting intensity using LED fixtures to minimize energy consumption while maintaining a premium in-store environment. The store is also connected to the company’s internal Inergy platform, which monitors air conditioning and electricity consumption to improve efficiency and maintenance.

Zara is part of the Inditex Group, one of the world’s leading fashion retailers. The group also includes brands such as Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, Oysho, Zara Home and Lefties. Operating in 98 markets and over 200 online markets globally, the group continues to focus on innovation, customer experience and sustainability, with a goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2040.

Currently, Inditex operates 20 Zara stores in India, further expanding its footprint in the country’s fast-growing fashion retail market.

The visit builds on an MoU signed between Venezuelan petroleum authorities and the African Energy Chamber in February 2026, representing the next step in this collaborative initiative

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Mar 7 — Following the historic visit by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) to Venezuela in February 2026, Venezuela responded by sending its Deputy Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Productive Efficiency on Hydrocarbons Arturo Gil to South Africa to advance energy ties.

A high-level meeting was held in Cape Town, featuring Deputy Minister Gil and Carlos Feo Acevedo, the Venezuelan Ambassador to South Africa, alongside an AEC team led by Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk and a team from Energy Capital & Power, led by CEO James Chester. Discussions centered on strengthening investment flows, leveraging Venezuela’s expertise to support Africa’s energy resilience and identifying avenues for collaboration across the energy value chain.

The meeting follows a high-level visit by the AEC to Caracas in late February, which included meetings with Delcy Rodríguez, Interim President of Venezuela as well as the state-owned oil corporation Petróleos de Venezuela SA and the ministries of Hydrocarbon Geopolitics and Gas. The outcome of these meetings was a signed MoU, aimed at strengthening investment and collaboration across the oil, gas and broader energy sectors. The Cape Town discussion represents the next step in this collaboration, underscoring Venezuela’s commitment to establishing resilient ties with African nations.

Workforce Development and Technical Cooperation

A key outcome of the meeting was a commitment to strengthening workforce development across Africa’s energy sector. Under the initiative, the AEC will engage between 10 and 15 African stakeholders to participate in specialized technical training programs at Venezuela’s University of Hydrocarbons, supporting skills development and knowledge transfer between the two regions.

The Venezuelan delegation emphasized the importance of building long-term technical partnerships, noting that structured training programs would allow African professionals to gain hands-on expertise while fostering deeper institutional cooperation between Africa and Venezuela.

“We believe it would be valuable to organize a working visit to South Africa and bring a Venezuelan delegation to explore cooperation and investment opportunities,” stated Deputy Minister Gil.

Leveraging Venezuelan Oil and Gas Expertise

The meeting also examined how Africa can benefit from Venezuela’s more than 100 years of oil and gas production experience. Ayuk highlighted geological similarities between Venezuela and key African producing countries such as Namibia and Angola, suggesting that knowledge exchange on basin geology and data interpretation could accelerate exploration and production across both regions.

“We need to strengthen collaboration between Africa and Venezuela. I hope to see more African stakeholders leveraging your cooperation, particularly in the area of data sharing and trade,” stated Ayuk.

He also underscored Venezuela’s unique role as a member of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization, emphasizing the importance of increased participation in continental initiatives such as the African Energy Bank to address both the continent and the south American nation’s investment challenges.

Unlocking Investment and Market Opportunities

Investment opportunities within Venezuela’s hydrocarbon sector was also a central focus of the meeting. The Venezuelan delegation highlighted the country’s extensive geological database, built over more than a century of exploration and production activity, which provides investors with detailed insights into untapped resources and development opportunities.

With 1,000 wells planned for development and over 20,000 wells already drilled – including many yet to be optimized – the country presents substantial and highly lucrative investment opportunities across its upstream sector.

Gas Development and Energy Access

Venezuela’s vast natural gas resources were also discussed as a potential solution to Africa’s growing energy access challenges. With approximately 600 million people in Africa lacking access to electricity and nearly one billion living without access to clean cooking solutions, Ayuk highlighted the potential role of Venezuela’s flared gas in strengthening the continent’s energy supply while also supporting economic growth for the South American nation.

“Venezuela has significant onshore gas resources that can be further developed, but unlocking this potential will require greater investment to support both national development and the needs of our people,” stated Deputy Minister Gil. “LPG is not only an energy resource but also a social solution with strong economic and societal value. There is substantial potential for expansion in both our onshore and offshore gas sectors.”

Role of African Independents in Upstream Expansion

During the meeting, the parties emphasized the growing influence of African independent oil companies, noting their success in expanding production across the continent after decades of experience working alongside international majors. Drawing parallels with markets such as Nigeria, he suggested that independent operators could also play a role in supporting Venezuela’s efforts to increase oil output through brownfield redevelopment and mature asset optimization.

“Outside the U.S., Africa – especially Nigeria – has one of the largest populations of independent oil producers, with many operators producing from as little as 1,000 barrels per day,” stated Ayuk.

As both regions seek to expand production and address energy access challenges, deeper collaboration between African and Venezuelan stakeholders could unlock new opportunities across the global energy landscape.

Electronic health records (EHRs). Insurance claims. Patient registries. Wearable devices. Never before has health data been so abundant.

Yet the United States continues to struggle with siloed systems that make it difficult to streamline and use this information to advance science and medicine – particularly in areas such as public health, safety monitoring, and precision medicine.

Now, a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, technologists, and policy experts argues that the country should rethink how this data is managed. In a new paper published in Science, the group calls for real-world health data (RWD) to be governed as a public utility – an essential piece of public infrastructure, akin to electricity, water, and the internet.

To address data silos, patient privacy, and other related challenges, the researchers looked to lessons from the creation of public utilities throughout history – such as the electrification movement, federal drinking water standards, and the advent of the internet.

They propose that a public utility model could better govern health data and ensure it flows where it matters most: from patients to new and innovative solutions and back again to benefit the public.

The public utility approach would ensure that there is governmental regulatory oversight, ensuring fair access, transparency, and accountability for health data. 

Governance would be distributed to utility boards, while the government would establish and enforce regulations and standards, enabling individual research entities and stakeholders the freedom to address their own research questions and challenges. Like other public utility boards, this information could be accessed by patients and the community, ultimately empowering them with a formal role in oversight and data sharing.

The researchers also argue that current U.S. privacy laws, including HIPAA, are insufficient for today’s digital health ecosystem. They call for extending HIPAA-like protections to include consumer health data (including wearables, genomics, and mobile apps), clarifying public health and research use cases, and more.

Researchers also recognized that transforming health data governance will require both legal reform and cultural change. They underscore that healthcare organizations and policy-makers must recognize health data as shared infrastructure with collective value, not just a secondary byproduct of clinical care.

 

Chennai, Mar 06: Chennai’s real estate sector marked a significant digital milestone as DRA Homes launched the city’s first multi-lingual Virtual Sales AI Assistant at the recently concluded CREDAI Chennai Fairpro exhibition.The innovation signals a decisive move towards technology-led sales transformation, positioning the company at the forefront of AI-driven customer engagement in the city.

Designed to function as a digital sales assistant, the AI-powered tool enables prospective buyers to instantly access comprehensive project information, pricing details, configuration options and amenity specifications. It also facilitates site visit scheduling, helping buyers explore properties with greater convenience and clarity. At Fairpro, the assistant saw enthusiastic participation from visitors, many of whom appreciated the speed, ease and transparency it brought to the property exploration process.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director – DRA Homes, said, “Innovation in real estate is no longer optional – it is imperative. The launch of Chennai’s first Multi-lingual Virtual Sales AI Assistant reflects our commitment to building a future-ready organization that leverages technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. We believe AI will play a transformative role in redefining how homes are marketed, explored and purchased, and this is a significant step in that direction.”

Following its successful debut, the Virtual Sales AI Assistant will now be integrated in a few malls and airports, ensuring a consistent, intelligent and responsive engagement model across multiple customer touchpoints.

Adding to this,Mr. Manoj Vasudevan, Head- Sales, Marketing & CRM, DRA Homes, said, “Today’s homebuyer expects speed, transparency and personalized engagement at every stage of the buying journey. With this AI-powered assistant, we are able to provide instant, accurate information while meaningfully enhancing the customer experience. Our focus is on combining human expertise with intelligent automation, enabling our teams to deliver deeper advisory support while the technology streamlines information access.”

As digital adoption accelerates across sectors, the introduction of this Virtual Sales AI Assistant marks a pivotal shift for Chennai’s real estate ecosystem – setting a new benchmark for innovation, responsiveness and customer-centricity in property sales.