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  • Sales JSW MG Motor India Registers Highest-ever Wholesale

    Gurugram, July 1: JSW MG Motor India recorded its highest-ever wholesale performance in June 20026. With a 30 percentage year-on-year growth in June 2026 compared to the same month in 2025, the car maker reported wholesale sales of 7,568 units during the month.Sales JSW MG Motor India Registers Highest-ever Wholesale

    The robust performance reflects the strong acceptance of JSW MG Motor India’s diverse product portfolio, comprising both Internal Combustion Engine and New Energy Vehicle  models.

    Electric vehicles continued to drive growth for JSW MG Motor India, contributing over 75% of the company’s total sales in June 2026. Rising fuel prices, lower EV running costs, and geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia further accelerated customer preference for electric mobility.

    “Our June performance reflects steady demand across the portfolio and marks our highest-ever wholesale performance, with electric vehicles continuing to account for a significant share of our overall sales. At the same time, we are seeing encouraging customer response to our ICE offerings, reinforcing the strength of our diverse product portfolio. We sincerely thank our customers for their continued trust in our brand. As we move forward, we remain committed to introducing advanced, new-age mobility solutions that meet the evolving aspirations of Indian car buyers,” said Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India.

    The company has also commenced deliveries of its recently launched flagship SUV, the MG MAJESTOR — India’s first D+ segment SUV.

  • Puri Srimandir Enters Quiet Phase as Holy Trinity Begins Anasara

    Puri Srimandir Enters Quiet Phase as Holy Trinity Begins Anasara

    Following the grand Snana Purnima ritual at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, Lord Jagannath along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra has entered the traditional Anasara period, a 15-day ceremonial seclusion believed to be the deities’ recovery phase after the sacred bath.

    During this period, the deities are kept inside the Anasara Ghara, a restricted chamber within the temple, and are not available for public darshan. Devotees instead offer prayers to Anasara Pata, painted representations of the Holy Trinity.

    Sacred Seclusion and Healing Rituals

    According to tradition, the deities are considered to be in a state of “divine fever” following the Snana Purnima ritual. During Anasara, exclusive servitors including the Daitapatis perform age-old healing rituals using herbal preparations and sacred offerings.

    The sanctum remains in a solemn state, with minimal lighting and restricted ceremonial activities. The idols are adorned only with white cloth and flowers, symbolizing purity and rest.

    Pati Dian Darshan During Anasara

    Although direct darshan of the deities is restricted, devotees can participate in Pati Dain Darshan, where they worship painted depictions of Lord Jagannath and His siblings. This practice allows devotees to maintain spiritual connection during the seclusion period.

    Special arrangements are made in and around the temple premises for devotees to offer prayers and receive blessings through these sacred representations.

    Alarnath Puja at Brahmagiri

    During the Anasara period, devotees also traditionally visit the Alarnath Temple in Brahmagiri, where Lord Jagannath is believed to appear in the form of Lord Alarnath (Ananta).

    Thousands of devotees gather at the temple to seek blessings during this phase, as it is believed that Lord Jagannath grants darshan there while remaining in seclusion at Puri. The site becomes a major spiritual center during the 15-day period.

    Ritual Healing and Restoration

    As per temple tradition, several prescribed rituals and offerings are carried out during Anasara, including herbal treatments and sacred medicinal preparations administered by traditional servitors. These rituals are believed to restore the divine form of the deities.

    The seclusion concludes with Nabajouban Darshan, when the deities are re-painted and restored for public viewing ahead of the grand Rath Yatra.

    Spiritual Significance

    The Anasara period is deeply symbolic in the Jagannath tradition, reflecting themes of rest, renewal, and divine cycles. It also strengthens associated pilgrimage practices such as Pati Dain Darshan and Alarnath Darshan, which together sustain continuous devotion during the temple’s brief closure to the public.

  • University of Greater Manchester Academic Centre launches new campus in Ras Al Khaimah

    University of Greater Manchester Academic Centre launches new campus in Ras Al Khaimah

     

    Ras Al Khaimah, July 01: The University of Greater Manchester Academic Centre Ras Al Khaimah officially opened its new campus in Sheikh Khalifa City, marking another significant milestone for British higher education in the Northern Emirates. It is one of the first international universities established in Ras Al Khaimah to operate from its own dedicated campus.

    The new launch marks the university’s long-standing partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). The University of Greater Manchester, earlier known as the University of Bolton Academic Centre – Ras Al Khaimah was established in 2008. The institution has grown alongside the emirate’s evolving higher education landscape, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding access to internationally recognised British education while supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s vision of developing knowledge, talent, and innovation.

    The campus opening ceremony brought together education leaders, government representatives, and partners from the UAE and the UK to celebrate not only the opening of the new campus, but also nearly two decades of collaboration in advancing internationally recognised British higher education in Ras Al Khaimah.

    Present at the event were Dr. Sudhir Kartha, Chairman of the Knowledgucate Group; Andrew Clark, Deputy Consul General of the British Embassy in Dubai; and representatives from the RAK Department of Knowledge and RAKEZ. The university’s UK-based executive leadership, including Acting Vice-Chancellor Dr. Greg Walker and Head of the Off-Campus Division Yusuf Giga joined the celebrations virtually.

    Dr. Sudhir remarked, “Today marks a proud and historic milestone in our journey to expand access to world-class higher education in the Northern Emirates. This new campus reflects our commitment to creating a learning environment that brings internationally recognised qualifications closer to students in the UAE and the wider region. We are deeply grateful to His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, to the Department of Knowledge, RAKEZ, our partners at the University of Greater Manchester, and everyone who has supported this vision. This inauguration is not just the opening of a campus — it is the beginning of new opportunities, stronger partnerships, and a brighter future for our students.” He also announced the development of phase II by next academic year, 2027 that will expand the opportunities for the academic community.

    RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad commented, “We are proud to have been part of University of Greater Manchester’s journey since its establishment. Over the past 18 years, we have seen the institution grow from one of the emirate’s pioneering international higher education providers into a well-established academic centre that continues to expand its contribution to Ras Al Khaimah.”

    He added, “This new campus represents far more than a physical expansion. It reflects the confidence that long-standing partners have in Ras Al Khaimah as a place to invest, innovate and grow. At RAKEZ, we remain committed to supporting institutions that strengthen the emirate’s education ecosystem, nurture future talent and enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal as a destination to live, learn and build successful careers.”

    The new campus features purpose-built academic facilities designed to support interactive lectures, practical workshops, research activities and personalised student engagement, creating a modern learning environment for students across a range of disciplines and levels of study. The new campus offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes spanning business, accountancy, law, psychology, engineering, artificial intelligence, data analytics,  cloud and network security and construction management. With the capacity to accommodate up to 1,750 students in its first phase, the campus combines modern learning facilities with industry-focused education, career guidance, internships, annual career fairs and strong employer engagement to help prepare graduates for successful careers in the UAE and beyond.

    This expansion reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s continued development as a destination for internationally recognised higher education, broadening opportunities for students to pursue British qualifications locally while supporting the emirate’s ambitions to develop a highly skilled workforce aligned with future economic grow.

  • Jharkhand YouTuber Kidnapped, Murdered During Robbery in Sundargarh; Main Accused Dies While Fleeing

    Sundargarh, July 1 (UDN): A suspected robbery attempt ended in the murder of a Ranchi-based YouTuber in Odisha’s Sundargarh district, while the alleged mastermind of the crime died in a road accident during an attempt to flee with the victim’s vehicle, police said on Tuesday.

    The victim, identified as Shivdhan Lohar of Ranchi, had travelled to Sundargarh along with his friend, Anmol Mallick, to admit a relative to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). The two were returning home in separate vehicles late Monday night when they were reportedly targeted by three armed assailants.

    According to the police, the miscreants first attempted to stop Mallick’s vehicle, but he managed to escape. They then intercepted Lohar’s car and allegedly forced him into their custody before driving towards the Hemagiri area. During an alleged attempt to rob the victim of his vehicle and valuables, a confrontation reportedly broke out, following which Lohar was fatally attacked with a sharp weapon. His body was later abandoned near a railway overbridge.

    After committing the crime, the accused allegedly fled in the victim’s car. However, their escape was cut short near Bhasma when the vehicle met with a major accident. The prime accused, identified as Subhendu, died on the spot, while another suspect sustained serious injuries and was admitted to GMCH, Sundargarh. A juvenile allegedly involved in the incident has also been detained.

    Sundargarh Superintendent of Police Amritpal Kaur said the preliminary investigation points to robbery as the motive behind the murder. Police have recovered evidence from the crime scene and are analysing forensic and technical inputs to reconstruct the sequence of events.

    The police are also verifying the criminal background of the deceased accused, who is believed to have been involved in an earlier murder case. A detailed investigation is underway to identify the role of each accused and establish all circumstances leading to the crime.

  • Sony India Expands its Premium Alpha Line-up with the New Alpha 7R VI

    Sony India Expands its Premium Alpha Line-up with the New Alpha 7R VI

    New Delhi, July 01: Sony India today announced the launch of the Alpha 7R VI, the latest addition to its acclaimed Alpha 7R series. Combining an approximately 66.8 effective megapixel back-illuminated fully stacked Exmor RS™ CMOS sensor with Sony‘s latest BIONZ XR2™ image processing engine, the Alpha 7R VI delivers exceptional resolution, AI-powered subject recognition, and high-speed performance for professional photographers and filmmakers. 

    Sony also introduces the XLR-A4 XLR adaptor to expand on-camera audio capabilities for professional productions, including 32-bit float recording[ii]. 

    “The Alpha 7R VI represents the next chapter in Sony‘s commitment to imaging innovation, bringing together exceptional resolution, AI-powered intelligence, and professional-grade performance in our most advanced Alpha R series camera yet. Designed for creators who demand uncompromising image quality and speed, it empowers photographers and filmmakers to capture every moment with extraordinary precision and creative freedom.” said Mukesh Srivastava, Head-Imaging & Professional Solution Business, Sony India

     Alpha 7R VI Key Features 

    Expanded High-Resolution Shooting

    • 66.8 MP (approximate, effective) full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS sensor with up to 16 stops[iii] of dynamic range and reduced noise in the mid-sensitivity range
    • Precise 5-axis optical image stabilization delivering up to 8.5 stops at the centre and 7.0 stops at the periphery[iv]
    • Auto White Balance powered by visible light and infrared (IR) sensor and deep-learning illumination estimation, for stable natural colour in shaded or indoor scenes

     Intelligence in Every Frame with High-Speed, High-Precision Continuous Shooting

    • BIONZ XR2 engine with integrated AI processing unit and approximately 5.6x faster sensor readout than the previous model[v], enabling blackout-free continuous shooting at up to approximately 30 fps[vi] delivering up to 60 AF/AE calculations per second with AF/AE tracking
    • Real-time Recognition AF+ (Plus) with skeletal-based human pose estimation and tracking, for reliable focus on fast-moving subjects including athletes and dynamic scenes

     Built for Professional Demands

    • New NP-SA100 high-capacity battery (2670 mAh) supports up to 710 still images via LCD monitor or 600 via viewfinder (CIPA standard), reducing battery changes during extended shoots[vii]
    • Approximately 9.44M dot OLED viewfinder with a DCI-P3 equivalent colour gamut and 10-bit HDR—maximum brightness is approximately three times higher than conventional models5 for clear visibility in bright environments
    • Effective heat management allows uninterrupted 8K movie recording up to 120 min[viii]
    • Dual USB Type-C🄬 ports for simultaneous charging and data transfer; illuminated rear buttons for low-light operation
    • Magnesium alloy for a lightweight and durable body; 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor for flexible shooting angles; mode-dial “Memory Recall” links shooting setups to customizable buttons[ix]
    • Supports Sony’s Camera Authenticity Solution, including the C2PA standard, enabling verification that still images and videos were captured with a camera (not AI-generated)

     Professional Video

    • 8K 30p recording with 8.2K oversampling[x] and full frame 4K 60p and 120p recording without crop[xi]
    • Dual Gain Shooting, a first in the Alpha series[xii], optimizes sensor performance to reduce noise losing shadow detail for smooth gradation and wide latitude
    • Redesigned in-camera stabilization expands the roll-direction compensation range by 2x5; Dynamic active Mode[xiii] delivers smooth and steady handheld
    • 32-bit float audio internal recording in camera when paired with the XLR-A4 XLR adaptor, eliminating the need for fine adjustment on location[xiv] 

     Key Features of the XLR-A4 XLR Adaptor

    • Supports in-camera digital audio recording with up to 4-channel; XLR microphones, such as the ECM-778 (up to 2ch), and connects 3.5 mm stereo mini jack microphones (2ch stereo) via the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe
    • Dual AD converters digitize microphone signals across a wide dynamic range, capturing quiet ambience through loud action with clarity2
    • Records digital audio at up to 96kHz 32-bit float 4ch on compatible cameras2, fully leveraging high-end XLR microphone quality. The 32-bit float format eliminates the need for fine gain adjustment on location, significantly reducing the risk of audio distortion14
    • Lower profile height design and a reinforced chassis structure compared to the XLR-K3M, supporting stable shooting across on-location scenarios
    • Supplied shoe audio extension cable allows placement up to approximately 60 cm from the camera; side routing minimizes interference with rigs and accessories
    • USB Audio Class 2.0 compatible; functions as a 96 kHz 24-bit 2ch audio interface when connected to a PC for on-site audio monitoring and editing

    Complementing the Alpha 7R VI is a lineup of optional accessories designed to enhance power management, ergonomics, and workflow efficiency for professional creators (sold separately): 

    • Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-SA100- High-capacity battery with Info LITHIUM functionality, delivering approximately 1.3x the power capacity of the NP-FZ100 Z-series battery. Integrates with camera power management to optimize endurance and thermal behaviour. Includes an in-camera battery deterioration indicator.
    • Vertical Grip VG-C6- Ergonomic grip for comfortable vertical or horizontal shooting, housing up to two high-capacity SA-series batteries. Dust and moisture resistant construction, equivalent to the camera body.
    • Battery Charger BC-SAD1- Dedicated charger for the SA-type battery NP-SA100. With a USB Power Delivery source of 45 W or higher[xv], charges two batteries to 100% simultaneously in approximately 115 minutes or one battery to 80% in approximately 55 minutes and full charge in approximately 55 minutes. Displays battery pack deterioration status during charging.
    • DC Coupler DC-C2- Provides stable continuous power via an external USB Power Delivery source of 100 W or higher a USB-C® to USB-C cable15.

     Availability

    The Alpha 7R VI will be available from 03rd July 2026 across Sony Center, ShopatSC.com, and Amazon. Customers will also receive one complimentary NP-SA100 battery, 

  • Heart-to-Heart With a Chatbot: The Surprising Rise of AI in India’s Personal Lives

    July 1: Whether it’s a question about relationships, intimacy, dating dynamics, or simply making sense of emotions, Artificial Intelligence is quietly becoming a trusted companion for conversations people once reserved for their closest confidants. What began as a tool for information and productivity is evolving into something far more personal, a judgment-free space where users can seek advice, explore questions, and gain perspective on their private lives.

    According to a Gleeden’s survey conducted in partnership with IPSOS  in late February 2026, AI is becoming an increasingly popular source of information, reflection, and guidance on matters ranging from intimacy and emotional well-being to dating and relationship management. The findings reveal a significant shift in how people approach personal conversations, particularly those they may hesitate to have in their everyday lives.

    The survey, conducted across 12 Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities in India, found that 66% of respondents have used conversational AI tools to learn about sexual health and education, while 60% have sought guidance for personal sexual concerns. More than half have used AI to discuss intimate questions, and 58% have turned to it for aadvice on improving romantic and intimate experiences.

    A Space Without Judgment

    What makes AI so appealing in matters of the heart? The answer may lie in the privacy it offers. Unlike conversations with family or friends, where one typically has to worry about being embarrassed or having people make assumptions about them as a result of talking about being in love, using AI provides a safe space for users to ask their questions without any fear of judgement. This type of space has been found to be valuable in a society where the discussion around relationships and intimacy is continuing to evolve.

    The interesting part about this trend is that, given the fact that modern dating is becoming more and more focused on both discretion and privacy, as such lots of people are trying to find ways to help them better understand themselves so they can open up to other people. Therefore, AI is beginning to act as a bridge between curiosity and confidence; allowing users to explore sensitive topics at their speed.

    Going from an Information Tool to A Relationship Companion

    The survey results also indicated that AI is gradually playing an important role in relationship management. Participants reported using AI to navigate common concerns around dating/relationships: to help overcome communication issues or understand an emotional situation and gain perspective prior to having a difficult conversation. In addition to these findings, it appears that AI is not replacing human connections, but instead is filling a need for digital confidentiality; many users view AI as a sounding board or neutral voice to help them sort through their thoughts and see different perspectives. As a result, AI is moving further away from the role of being a technological tool and closer toward becoming a digital confidant for individuals to turn to when seeking clarity.

    Interestingly, it appears that men are somewhat more willing to seek out this trend than women. The survey found that 40% of men had looked for relationship advice from AI within the previous 12 months, while 35% of women had done so.

    A New Chapter in Modern Relationships

    Younger generations are at the forefront of adopting AI technology, although many of the older generations are becoming interested in how A.I. can provide assistance with developing relationships and providing guidance on personal matters.

    According to Sybil Shiddell, Country Manager of Gleeden India,

    “The results of this survey indicate that there is a growing demand for places where we can find support without being judged. While A.I. provides us with more ways to receive information about ourselves and have a moment of self-reflection, it also shows that people are now more concerned about the need for their private life to remain private and that discretion is very important with respect to modern relationships. People want to use A.I. to help them better understand their feelings, clarify their thoughts and feel more confident to move forward in their personal lives.”

    AI is not only helping us become more productive or efficient in our everyday lives, but it is also becoming a trusted resource as a companion for some of our most meaningful conversations, with a goal of providing perspective and privacy in addition to lending an ear to us when we need one.

  • IMD Issues Thunderstorm, Lightning Alert for 14 Odisha Districts

    Bhubaneswar, July 1 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nowcast warning for 14 districts of Odisha, forecasting thunderstorms with lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching up to 40 kmph over the next three hours.

    The districts likely to be affected are Angul, Ganjam, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, Nayagarh, Puri, Gajapati, Jagatsinghpur, Bargarh, Sonepur, Kandhamal, Sambalpur, Jajpur, and Cuttack, including Cuttack city.

    The weather office has advised residents to remain alert as conditions may change rapidly. People are encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open areas, and take shelter away from tall trees, electric poles, and other vulnerable structures to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.

    Motorists should exercise caution while driving, as rainfall may lead to poor visibility and slippery road conditions. Farmers, outdoor workers, and travellers are also advised to monitor local weather updates and postpone non-essential outdoor activities until the weather improves.

    Authorities have urged the public to follow safety advisories and remain vigilant throughout the warning period.

  • Government Says E20 Fuel Still in Experimental Phase

    New Delhi, July 1 (UDN): The Central Government has clarified that the use of E20 fuel—a blend of 20 per cent ethanol and 80 per cent petrol—remains in an experimental and transition phase, with efforts underway to assess its long-term performance and compatibility across different vehicle categories.

    Government Says E20 Fuel Still in Experimental Phase

    Representational image

    The government said the phased rollout of E20 fuel is aimed at reducing dependence on imported crude oil, lowering carbon emissions and promoting the use of domestically produced ethanol. Vehicle manufacturers have been encouraged to produce E20-compatible models, while studies on the fuel’s impact on engines, fuel efficiency and emissions continue.

    Officials said consumers should use E20 fuel only in vehicles certified or recommended by manufacturers for such blends. The government added that feedback from automakers, fuel retailers and consumers will be considered before wider implementation of the programme.

    The E20 initiative forms part of India’s broader strategy to expand the use of biofuels, strengthen energy security and support environmental sustainability.

  • Mapping the Risk Factors for Mother-Infant Bonding Disorder

     

    University of Toyama researchers find three factors that predict mother-to-infant bonding difficulties in the absence of postnatal depression

    July 1: Mother-to-infant bonding difficulties (MIBD) are commonly associated with postnatal depression. MIBD has been linked to developmental delays and child abuse. Researchers found that about half of MIBD cases in Japan involve mothers who did not experience postpartum depression. Difficulty holding a fussy baby, lack of happiness about pregnancy, and low social support predict an increased risk of MIBD. Clinicians observing these signs should intervene to ensure maternal and child well-being.

    Mapping the Risk Factors for Mother-Infant Bonding Disorder

      A strong emotional bond between a mother and her child is vital during early infancy. However, some mothers experience indifference, aloofness, or anger when interacting with their infants, a phenomenon called mother-to-infant bonding difficulties (MIBD). MIBD has been linked to inappropriate child-rearing and developmental delays in children. Therefore, it becomes crucial for medical professionals to intervene and help mothers bond better with their infants.

    Researchers have long known that postnatal depression is a strong predictor of MIBD. However, mothers without postnatal depression make up a very large proportion of mother-child pairs affected by MIBD. “The prevalence of MIBD is reported to be 11%–12%, but to our knowledge, there are relatively few reports on the prevalence of MIBD without postnatal depression,” says Ms. Hitomi Inano from the Department of Nursing Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Japan. “It is highly likely that maternal bonding difficulties are involved in the steadily increasing incidence of child abuse and developmental disorders in recent years,” she adds.

    Ms. Inano led a study on MIBD in mothers without postnatal depression. This study was supported by Dr. Akiko Tsuchida, Dr. Hidekuni Inadera, and Professor Tomomi Hasegawa from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toyama, as well as Dr. Kenta Matsumura from the Aomori University of Health and Welfare. Using data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), the researchers studied the overall prevalence of MIBD and factors associated with increased MIBD risk. Their findings were made available online on June 3, 2026, in Volume 29 of the journal Archives of Women’s Mental Health.

    The research team found that MIBD was present in 11.6% of all mother-child pairs in the JECS dataset, which was consistent with previous studies. While MIBD prevalence was only 7.7% in mother-child pairs where the mother did not have postnatal depression, this group still accounted for nearly half of all cases of MIBD in the dataset. Next, the team looked at the prevalence of the two components of MIBD, namely lack of affection (LA) and anger and rejection (AR). 38.2% of mothers gave at least one affirmative response to LA-related items, compared with 51.8% for AR-related items.

    What aspects of pregnancy and postpartum increase the risk of MIBD? The team analyzed 30 variables across six dimensions: child factors, maternal physical factors, maternal lifestyle factors, maternal psychological factors, maternal social and economic factors, and healthcare or medical intervention factors. Of these, three variables showed the strongest associations with MIBD.

     The strongest predictor was a mother reporting difficulty in holding her infant due to crying, fussiness, or back-arching at one month postpartum; these mothers were 3.45 times more likely to experience MIBD at one year postpartum. The second strongest predictor was a mother reporting any emotion other than happiness upon pregnancy confirmation—confusion, upset, or neutrality were associated with a 2.42-fold increase in MIBD risk. Conversely, mothers reporting high social support during their pregnancy had a 55% lower likelihood of experiencing MIBD.

    Ms. Inano highlights the need for active monitoring and intervention. “Mothers with bonding difficulties who screen negative for postnatal depression are unlikely to be identified by healthcare professionals and are therefore often overlooked as potential recipients of support,” she says. Clinicians should strongly consider intervening if a mother reports difficulty in handling her baby when the baby is cranky or arching their back, even if the mother shows no signs of postnatal depression.

    Ms. Inano hopes that these findings will lead to more mothers receiving timely support, thus ensuring their own well-being and the healthy development of their children.

  • Khyber Group launches India’s largest RAS-based Himalayan trout farming facility

    Khyber Group launches India’s largest RAS-based Himalayan trout farming facility

    Srinagar, India, July 01: Jammu & Kashmir’s leading business conglomerate, the Khyber Group, has launched Khyber Aquaculture. India’s largest, fully integrated, sustainable Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) based Himalayan trout farming facility in Kashmir, aimed at transforming the region’s trout industry into an integrated, export-oriented ecosystem by linking advanced aquaculture technology with local farming communities.

    Located on the banks of the River Sindh in Akhal, Kangan, in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir. Khyber Aquaculture is spread over 8 acres and has been built with an investment of over ₹100 crore. It is a technology-driven trout farming model designed to reuse & recycle water, allowing year-round trout production in a climate-controlled environment. Khyber Aquaculture, currently with a 1500 metric ton capacity, will reach an annual production capacity of 7000 metric tons within 3 to 5 years. The hatchery of the unit is capable of producing up to 20 million fingerlings annually.   

    Mr Umar Tramboo, CMD, Khyber Aquaculture, “Our technologically superior facility is an expansion of cold-water aquaculture in Jammu and Kashmir. Our cluster model is designed to integrate production, hatcheries, processing and supply chains while supporting more than 300 local farmers under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), through modern aquaculture systems and market access”

    With in-house production, processing and packaging units, the initiative is expected to support more than 3,000 indirect livelihood opportunities across the region.

    Khyber Aquaculture combines modern aquaculture technology with local environmental conditions and clean production methods that contribute to climate-resilient fish farming in Jammu & Kashmir.

    “It has taken us over 5 years to be completely ready. But the wait was worth it. With this launch, we plan to revolutionise India’s aquaculture sector, introducing new standards for fish health and operational control. We want to be known as a platform for scaling trout farming with data-driven systems and localised adaptation,” further continued Mr Tramboo.

    Khyber Aquaculture uses American and Danish – bred eyed ova (eggs) along with Danish, French and German precision-controlled systems designed to increase survival rates by 25–30%, lower feed conversion ratios (FCR), and reduce pathogen exposure. It has been designed specifically for international quality and export standards. The fully vertically integrated operation utilizes hyper-hygienic cleaning lines and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) to achieve a 10-day chilled shelf-life and a 6-month frozen shelf-life making both Fresh/Chilled & Frozen stocks readily available from FY Q3 2025.

    The unit’s precision chilling systems maintain an exact 10-14°C water temperature.

    Continuous injection maintains high dissolved oxygen levels (8-12 mg/L) required by trout.

    The company has adopted a comprehensive sustainability framework encompassing water recirculation, biosecurity management, responsible feed practices, waste management, and environmental monitoring. Through RAS technology, the facility significantly reduces freshwater requirements while ensuring optimal fish health and production efficiency.

    As global demand for premium, traceable, and sustainably farmed seafood continues to rise, Khyber Aquaculture plans to develop strong domestic and export market linkages, leveraging the unique geographical and environmental advantages of the Kashmir Valley.

    The Khyber Aquaculture processing facility blends Himalayan Glacial water with Danish, French, and Swedish technology, featuring IoT-enabled, zero-waste farming and advanced cold-chain infrastructure.

    The India trout market size reached 4,698.7 Tons in 2025.  IMARC Group expects the market to reach 7,964.7 Tons by 2034, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.86% during 2026-2034. The increasing consumer awareness of its high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, rising consumption among individuals, and government initiatives promoting aquaculture activities to enhance the local economy represent some of the key factors driving the Indian trout market share.