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  • Independent Talent Powerhouse Prarthana Ajmani Reaffirms Commitment to Cinematic Talent Through Strategic Alliances

    Mumbai, June 09: Armour Entertainment, a leading celebrity talent management company, today announced a strategic initiative to broaden its engagement with industry partners. Spearheaded by seasoned industry expert Prarthana Ajmani who is the Founder & CEO, the move reaffirms the company’s deep-rooted dedication to the craft of film making and sustained growth of the artists it represents.

    Operating independently at the forefront of the film industry, Ajmani has been instrumental in leading and shaping the acting careers of some of Indian cinema’s most acclaimed names. Through a meticulous & validated hands-on approach, Armour Entertainment has built an elite roster of powerhouse performers, including the likes of Shefali Shah, Sidhant Gupta, and Ronit Roy, among others. 

    The company operates with the highest standards enabling secure partnerships with artists. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of the entertainment business, backed by principles and proven processes, has cemented Armour Entertainment as a trusted, formidable force in talent representation. Building on this legacy, Armour Entertainment is now taking a progressive step to fortify the broader entertainment landscape. 

    “The entertainment landscape is rapidly evolving, and I have always believed that a collaborative ecosystem can unlock exponentially larger opportunities for artists,” said Prarthana. “Our commitment has always been, and remains, steadfastly dedicated to the craft and to our talent. By strengthening our relationships with industry peers, we are not only looking out for the artists but also hope to contribute to the collective growth and expand possibilities for the industry as a whole.”

    Recognizing that the modern entertainment sector thrives on synergy, these forward-looking associations would be designed to align seamlessly with the best interests of acting talent, fostering an environment where shared expertise, resources, and expansive networks translate into unprecedented avenues for artists.

  • Synack Expands CREST Partnership with New Certification Pathways for the Synack Red Team

    96% readBuilding on seven years of CREST accreditation, Synack deepens its commitment to independently verified security talent by adding two new CREST certifications to the SRT Pathways program

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—Synack, the Human + AI penetration testing platform, today announced an expansion of its longstanding partnership with CREST , an international not-for-profit organization that sets the standard for technical security testing.

    The expansion adds two new CREST certifications to the Synack Red Team (SRT) Pathways program , giving CREST-certified security researchers a direct route to join the SRT and giving enterprise customers additional assurance that the researchers behind their engagements hold independently verified credentials.

    Synack has been a CREST Accredited Member Company for Penetration Testing since 2019, a designation that requires annual renewals and triennial full audits of the company’s methodology, data security handling, and technical operations. This expansion deepens that relationship by extending CREST’s independent standard to the individual researcher layer.

    The SRT Pathways program now recognizes two additional CREST certifications:

    – CREST Certified Tester Infrastructure (CCT INF) — mapping to host and infrastructure assessment

    – CREST Certified Tester Application (CCT APP) — mapping to web application testing

    They join the CREST Registered Penetration Tester (CRT), which has been recognized in SRT Pathways since the program launched. Researchers who hold any of these credentials receive expedited onboarding consideration and a reliable path for greater earning potential.

    The SRT is one of the most selective communities in offensive security. Fewer than 10% of applicants are accepted, with each researcher passing background checks, technical assessments, skills validation, and ongoing performance review before touching a customer environment. CREST certifications sit alongside that as a second, independent benchmark — one that is increasingly meaningful for organizations operating under frameworks such as DORA, NIS2, and TIBER-EU, where vendor credentialing is becoming part of procurement diligence.

    As a multinational company with customers and researchers spanning the globe, Synack recognizes that CREST carries particular weight in EMEA markets, where enterprise security teams and regulated organizations increasingly treat independent credentialing as an important procurement signal.

    “A pentest is only as strong as the researchers running it,” said Ryan Rutan, Sr. Director of Community at Synack. “Expanding the CREST certifications recognized on SRT Pathways adds independent validation to the rigor our customers already count on from the Synack Red Team. And for CREST-certified researchers, it creates a clear, structured path to put those credentials to work on real engagements.”

    “CREST has been valuable in my career, especially when working in the MEA and EU markets where it is widely expected,” said SRT member Nikhil K. “It makes it easier for recruiters and organizations to identify qualified talent because CREST is recognized and trusted. It is considered a gold standard in pentesting, so having it adds credibility and can help open up better opportunities.”

    “Our partnership with Synack gives CREST-Certified penetration testers a direct path into one of the most selective research communities in the world,” said Michael Keen, Senior Product Manager – Workforce Development at CREST. “That’s good for researchers building careers in offensive security, it’s good for maintaining high standards to advance testing methodologies, and it’s good for the organisations that rely on independently credentialed talent to protect their most critical environments.”

    CREST-certified researchers interested in joining the Synack Red Team can learn more and apply through the Synack Red Team Pathways program .

    Enterprise customers looking to understand how CREST accreditation and independently verified researcher credentials strengthen their penetration testing programs can learn more at Synack or contact Synack to discuss their security testing needs.

  • Synack Supports Majority of Cabinet-Level Federal Departments as New AI Executive Order Raises the Bar on Federal Security

    New White House directive reinforces the need for AI-enabled, continuously validated security across federal networks and critical infrastructure

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—June 9, 2026—Synack, the AI + human penetration testing platform, today highlighted how its FedRAMP Moderate Authorized PTaaS platform and Sara AI Pentesting align with the cybersecurity priorities outlined in the White House’s new Executive Order, “Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security.” The order introduces a voluntary framework for testing frontier AI models before public release—and separately directs federal agencies to accelerate AI-enabled cyber defense, expand access to advanced cybersecurity tools, and coordinate vulnerability discovery and remediation at scale. Both priorities reflect a broader federal push to ensure AI is deployed securely. Synack already supports that mission for federal customers, including the majority of cabinet-level agencies.

    Scaling Defenses to Match AI-Era Threats

    The Executive Order directs the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to establish or expand federal programs that enhance AI-enabled defensive cybersecurity tools to match the speed and scale of evolving threats. Sara AI Pentesting automates reconnaissance, attack surface mapping, and initial exploits at machine speed, while the Synack Red Team (SRT)—a globally vetted community of elite ethical hackers—validates what is real, exploitable, and relevant to the mission. This combination of agentic AI and human expertise enables federal agencies to test more frequently and cover more attack surface than either approach can achieve alone. AI finds more. Humans prove what matters.

    “This Executive Order sends a clear signal: periodic testing and automated scanning alone are no longer enough to keep pace with AI-era threats,” said Jay Kaplan, CEO and Co-founder, Synack. “Federal security teams need continuous validation, AI-enabled scale, and human expertise to determine what is actually exploitable. That is exactly the model we have been building toward for 13 years, and what we deliver to federal customers today through our FedRAMP Moderate Authorized PTaaS platform.”

    Securing Critical Infrastructure

    As part of this order, CISA will facilitate access to cybersecurity services for operators of critical infrastructure—including rural hospitals, community banks, and local utilities. Synack has spent 13 years securing some of the most sensitive assets in these sectors, from the F-15’s Trusted Aircraft Information Download Station (TADS) to remote elections technology for Democracy Live. Synack’s continuous testing model ensures findings are validated and actionable.

    Continuous Vulnerability Discovery for Federal Compliance

    The Executive Order establishes a new AI cybersecurity clearinghouse to coordinate vulnerability scanning, validate findings, and prioritize remediation across federal networks and critical infrastructure—and directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to identify grant funding for advanced AI vulnerability detection. Synack delivers precisely this model of continuous security validation. As documented in the 2026 State of Vulnerabilities Report, Synack tested for React2Shell across customer assessments—surfacing zero-day exposure at a frequency and scale that periodic testing cannot match.

    As the Executive Order’s 30- and 60-day implementation timelines begin, federal agencies and critical infrastructure operators face real urgency to modernize their security testing programs and remediation process. Synack is ready to help them meet these mandates today. Schedule a readiness assessment at synack.com.

  • The Park Navi Mumbai Presents ‘Dakshin Utsav’ – A Celebration of Southern India’s Rich Food Heritage

    The Park Navi Mumbai Presents ‘Dakshin Utsav’ – A Celebration of Southern India's Rich Food Heritage

     

    Mumbai, 09th June 2026 – The Park Navi Mumbai invites guests to discover the vibrant food traditions of Southern India through its specially curated South Indian Food Festival, a celebration of the authentic and diverse flavours of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Chennai and the iconic Udupi region.

    Bringing together time-honoured recipes, regional specialties and traditional cooking styles, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the essence of South India under one roof. From comforting classics and coastal favourites to aromatic biryanis and indulgent desserts, the festival promises a memorable dining experience inspired by the region’s rich heritage.

    Adding an interactive element to the celebration, guests can enjoy live cooking stations featuring freshly prepared favourites such as Mangalore Bun with Kurma Curry, an assortment of Dosas, Appams, and Tawa Puttu Paratha, crafted to order by the hotel’s chefs.

    The elaborate spread showcases a variety of signature dishes including Udupi Sambar, Kerala Style Sambar, Kirai Masiyal, Gongura Pappu, Urulai Poriyal, Madras Style Mutton Curry, Chicken Gassi, Mutton Gassi, Chettinad Mutton Sukka, Chicken Kurma, Malabar Fish Curry, Alappuzha Fish Curry, and Podi Roasted Fish, highlighting the distinctive flavours and traditions of each region.

    The festival also features a selection of celebrated rice preparations and biryanis, including Ambur Biryani, Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani, and Udupi Style Vegetable Pulao, prepared using authentic ingredients and traditional spice blends.

    Guests can conclude their journey through Southern India with an enticing dessert selection that includes a variety of Payasams, coconut-based delicacies, date-infused sweets, traditional regional favourites and contemporary desserts inspired by South Indian flavours.

    Speaking about the festival, Rahul Makhija, General Manager, The Park Navi Mumbai, said:

    “At The Park Navi Mumbai, we believe that food is one of the most authentic ways to experience a region’s culture and traditions. With Dakshin Utsav, our endeavour is to showcase the incredible diversity of Southern Indian cuisine by bringing together cherished recipes, distinctive regional flavours, and time-honoured cooking techniques from across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and the Udupi region.

    Beyond the food, we wanted to create an experience that celebrates the warmth, hospitality, and culinary heritage of South India. From live cooking stations and traditional specialties to iconic biryanis and regional desserts, every element of the festival has been thoughtfully curated to offer our guests a memorable journey through one of India’s richest and most celebrated culinary landscapes.”

    Event Details:

    Festival: Dakshin Utsav – Where every bite tells a story of tradition, spice and culture

    Venue: The Park Navi Mumbai

    Dates: 10th June – 13th June

    Time: 7:30 PM onwards

    Format: Chef-Curated Theme Dinner

    Reservations: 7710098860

     

  • Minds by Animoca Brands and HKSTP launch ‘Build East’ demo day to unveil Hong Kong’s top agentic AI builders

    On 7 July 2026, eight local teams will pitch for access to the up to US$10M Minds Investment Programme in front of global delegates

    HONG KONG — 8 June 2026 — Animoca Brands and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) today announced Build East, a premier demo day they are co-hosting on 7 July 2026 to showcase local talent focused on agentic AI. The initiative will see eight standout Hong Kong-based teams pitch their projects for potential access to the Minds Investment Programme.

    The Minds Investment Programme was created to support early-stage builders integrating Minds by Animoca Brands (“Minds”) as their core product layer. Teams which are successfully accepted into the investment programme, subject to assessment from time to time, will receive an individually tailored mix of benefits, such as Cognition Credits, developer relations support, high-value ecosystem introductions across Animoca Brands’ portfolio of over 600 companies, and, where appropriate and subject to due diligence, capital investment from an aggregate pool of up to US$10M.

    Minds by Animoca Brands and HKSTP launch ‘Build East’ demo day to unveil Hong Kong’s top agentic AI builders

    Building the agentic era

    Minds by Animoca Brands is a persistent AI agent platform that removes complexity while preserving full control and customization for users of any knowledge or skill level. It enables anyone to quickly deploy and manage sovereign, always-on AI agents, called Minds, without having to operate local servers or manage any hardware or software.

    Build East seeks to identify and support promising Hong Kong-based projects building with Minds, by evaluating them for eligibility for the Minds Investment Programme. 

    The cohort structure for Build East is evenly split: four demo slots are reserved for premier HKSTP Park companies, and four demo slots are open to the wider community.  On demo day, the eight teams will pitch their projects to an audience of investors, ecosystem leaders, and global delegates, including a delegation from Saudi Arabia. Selected teams will be eligible for acceptance into the Minds Investment Programme, subject to further evaluation. Visit the Minds Builder Hub webpage for more details.

    Build East will take place on 7 July 2026 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Hong Kong Science Park. HKSTP is the exclusive “Tech Ecosystem Partner” of LEAP East 2026, which begins the following day. 

    HKSTP has built a thriving innovation and technology ecosystem, supporting 13 unicorns and bringing together approximately 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions, and over 17,000 research professionals.

    Leadership perspectives

    Yat Siu, co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, said: “As a global company headquartered in Hong Kong, we are absolutely thrilled to work with HKSTP to help accelerate the development of agentic AI in this vibrant and forward-looking city. Hong Kong’s combination of builder density, capital depth, and global connectivity render it uniquely well-suited to establish itself as a leading economic and development hub for the agentic era. Build East provides a timely platform enabling agentic AI builders in Hong Kong to connect with global investors as the city’s role in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation continues to evolve.”

    Eric Or, chief ecosystem development officer of HKSTP, said: “HKSTP is proud to co-host Build East alongside Animoca Brands and Minds. This event reflects our REIMAGINE AI+ commitment and our role as Hong Kong’s home for the founders building the next generation of intelligent agents.” 

    How to apply

    Applications to Build East are now open. Hong Kong-based developers, founders, and early-stage teams who are leveraging Minds by Animoca Brands are encouraged to submit their projects to secure a demo slot at Build East. The deadline for applications is 22 June 2026. Teams can apply directly via the Minds Builder Hub at http://build.hellominds.ai/program/build-east. 

  • Vodia Networks Announces External Presence Sharing with Version 70 of the Vodia PBX

    Vodia Networks Announces External Presence Sharing with Version 70 of the Vodia PBX

    BOSTON: June 9, 2026 – Vodia Networks, Inc., a provider of unified cloud communications solutions to enterprises, contact centers, and service providers, is pleased to announce the newest version of the industry-standard Vodia PBX, V70, enables presence information sharing externally between tenants and across individual PBX systems, helping teams stay connected across distributed communication environments. 

    V70 introduces the ability to share presence information between two tenants on the same PBX, or across different PBX servers in separate locations. The PBX systems must be able to reach each other through the internet for the exchange of presence information across environments. Once configured, the external account can be monitored through multiple interfaces. 

    This feature extends BLF visibility beyond a single tenant or PBX system, creating new possibilities for organizations operating across multiple locations or managing distributed PBX deployments. V70 also creates a path for external applications to push presence information through the REST API, enabling additional flexibility for custom integrations and communication workflows. 

    External Presence Sharing is extremely useful for organizations operating across multiple offices, separate PBX systems, or multi-tenant deployments: 

    ●      businesses with users distributed across multiple locations

    ●      organizations operating separate PBX systems by department or office

    ●      service providers managing multiple tenants

    ●      teams that require visibility into extension availability across environments

     By extending presence visibility beyond a single PBX environment, V70 helps organizations maintain clearer communication visibility across users and locations.

    V70 improvements for modern PBX deployments

    Version 70 of the Vodia PBX introduces major architectural and usability improvements designed for modern business communication environments. In addition to External Presence Sharing, V70 also: 

    ●      introduces a completely refreshed admin interface built on new technology

    ●      uses multiple CPU cores for media processing, enabling more than a thousand calls on a single server

    ●      provides snapshot creation and restoration using a file system approach for rollback and recovery

    ●      enables centralized remote provisioning

    ●      supports cross-tenant BLF status sharing 

    For businesses and service providers managing larger deployments, these improvements provide greater operational flexibility, scalability, and visibility across multiple environments. 

    Documentation is available on the Vodia documentation website. For further information, sales@vodia.com, +1 (617) 861-3490.

  • FSSAI Directs Food Business Operators to Stop Using Newspapers for Packing Food

    FSSAI Bans Use of Newspapers for Food Packaging, Cites Health Risks

    FSSAI Directs Food Business Operators to Stop Using Newspapers for Packing Food

    Representational image

    New Delhi, June 8: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) across the country to immediately discontinue the use of newspapers for packing, wrapping, and serving food items, citing serious health and safety concerns.

    The food safety regulator has reiterated that newspapers are not suitable for direct contact with food as the printing ink used in newspapers may contain harmful chemicals, pigments, and contaminants that can migrate into food and pose health risks to consumers.

    According to FSSAI, the use of newspapers for packaging hot, oily, or moist food products increases the likelihood of contamination. Chemicals present in printing inks, including heavy metals and other hazardous substances, can adversely affect human health when ingested over time.

    FSSAI Directs Food Business Operators to Stop Using Newspapers for Packing Food

    The authority has advised food vendors, restaurants, street food operators, and other food businesses to use only food-grade packaging materials that comply with prescribed safety standards. FSSAI has also urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing food items wrapped in newspapers.

    The directive forms part of the regulator’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety standards and promote hygienic food handling practices across the country. Food businesses found violating the guidelines may face regulatory action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.

    The move is expected to improve consumer safety and encourage the adoption of safer and more hygienic food packaging practices nationwide.

     

  • TCS Receives Special Recognition as Largest Employer Among IT/ITeS Exporters at STPI Tech Summit 2026

    New Delhi: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s leading IT services and consulting company, has been conferred with the Special Recognition Award as the Largest Employer among IT/ITeS Exporters at the STPI Tech Summit 2026: India’s Next Leap.

    The recognition highlights TCS’s outstanding contribution to employment generation, talent development, and the sustained growth of India’s information technology and IT-enabled services (IT/ITeS) export sector.

    TCS Receives Special Recognition as Largest Employer Among IT/ITeS Exporters at STPI Tech Summit 2026

    As one of the country’s largest private-sector employers, TCS has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for technology professionals across India while fostering innovation, digital transformation, and skill development. The company continues to invest significantly in workforce training, emerging technologies, and future-ready capabilities, strengthening India’s position as a global technology powerhouse.

    The award, presented during the STPI Tech Summit 2026, acknowledges TCS’s enduring commitment to nurturing technology talent and supporting the expansion of India’s digital economy. Industry leaders noted that the company’s large-scale employment initiatives have contributed substantially to enhancing the country’s competitiveness in global IT services and exports.

    The recognition also underscores the critical role played by the IT/ITeS industry in driving economic growth, generating high-value employment, and advancing India’s vision of becoming a leading global digital innovation hub.

    TCS’s achievement reflects the broader success of India’s technology ecosystem, which continues to attract global demand for digital services, innovation, and skilled talent. Through its sustained focus on workforce development and export excellence, TCS remains a key contributor to the continued growth and resilience of the Indian IT industry.

  • Odisha Approves Rs.833.74 Crore Tourism and Hospitality Investments, Creating 1,823 Jobs

    Bhubaneswar, June 8 (UDN): Odisha has taken another significant step toward strengthening its tourism and hospitality sector, with the approval of multiple investment proposals worth ₹833.74 crore during the 147th State Level Single Window Clearance Authority (SLSWCA) meeting. The approved projects are expected to generate 1,823 employment opportunities across the state.

    The investments span several districts, reflecting the state’s growing appeal as a destination for tourism-led development. The approved projects include hospitality, resort, and tourism infrastructure ventures that aim to enhance visitor experiences while boosting local economies.

    Odisha Approves Rs.833.74 Crore Tourism and Hospitality Investments, Creating 1,823 Jobs

     

    Among the key projects approved are those proposed by Swosti Premium Ltd. in Koraput, SNM Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd. in Koraput, Sri Eco Resorts in Keonjhar, Sailabala Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. in Puri, Suryo Udyog Ltd. in Jagatsinghpur, Pratyaksh Hotel & Resorts Pvt. Ltd. in Koraput, Leharsh Exports & Services Pvt. Ltd. in Sundargarh, and Prachi Enterprises in Mayurbhanj.

    The approvals underline the Odisha government’s continued focus on promoting tourism as a key economic growth driver. By encouraging investments in hotels, resorts, and tourism infrastructure, the state aims to attract more domestic and international visitors while creating sustainable employment opportunities in both urban and rural regions.

    Industry observers note that the fresh investments will strengthen Odisha’s hospitality ecosystem, particularly in emerging tourism destinations such as Koraput, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj, while further consolidating established hubs like Puri.

    The latest approvals under the SLSWCA framework are aligned with Odisha’s broader vision of accelerating industrial growth, enhancing ease of doing business, and positioning the state as a preferred investment destination across sectors.

  • MDEC Highlights AI Sovereignty Agenda at Energy Transition Conference 2026

    KUALA LUMPUR, 8 June 2026 – Malaysia’s commitment to building sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and strengthening digital infrastructure resilience took centre stage at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26), where the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) participated in a high-level panel discussion on the future of AI development in the region.

    Representing MDEC, Ir. Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad, Vice President and Head of the Digital Adoption Division, joined industry experts for the session titled “AI Sovereignty – Building Advantage Amid Global Dependencies.” The discussion examined how Malaysia and ASEAN can accelerate AI adoption while balancing the need for sovereign technological capabilities with the benefits of trusted global partnerships.

    Organised by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), ETCon26 was held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) and brought together policymakers, industry leaders, technology experts, and ecosystem stakeholders to explore the intersection of energy, AI, and digital infrastructure in driving the nation’s future competitiveness. The event also featured participation from government agencies and ministerial leadership, underscoring the strategic importance of digital transformation and energy transition initiatives.

    During the panel session, Ir. Wan Murdani highlighted the importance of developing resilient digital ecosystems that support Malaysia’s ambitions to become a leading digital nation and AI-driven economy. The discussion aligned closely with MDEC’s ongoing efforts to accelerate digital adoption, strengthen technological capabilities, and create an environment that enables innovation while safeguarding national interests.

    Panelists explored several critical enablers required to support the growth of sovereign AI ecosystems, including policy frameworks, talent development, data governance, cloud infrastructure, computing capacity, and sustainable energy resources. The conversation also emphasised the increasing importance of integrating AI development strategies with energy infrastructure planning to ensure scalability and long-term sustainability.

    Joining Ir. Wan Murdani on the panel were Lyantoniette Chua of AI Safety Asia and Khalil Nooh, Chief Executive Officer of Mesolitica. The session was moderated by Christine Yong Wei Ling of TNB, who guided discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing countries seeking to establish competitive AI ecosystems amid evolving global technological dependencies.

    The panel highlighted the need for ASEAN nations to collaborate on AI advancement while maintaining strategic autonomy in critical areas such as data management, infrastructure development, and talent cultivation. Speakers also stressed that trusted international partnerships remain essential in accelerating innovation and enabling access to global expertise and technology.

    The session concluded with strong engagement from attendees, reflecting growing regional momentum toward developing secure, scalable, and energy-aligned AI ecosystems. Participants expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government, industry, and technology stakeholders will help position Malaysia as a key player in the regional AI landscape while supporting broader economic and digital transformation goals.

    ETCon26 continues to serve as an important platform for advancing dialogue on the convergence of energy, digital technologies, and innovation, as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its competitiveness in an increasingly AI-powered global economy.