Category: Business

Mumbai,  May 18 : Parle Products, India’s leading FMCG company, has launched a first-of-its-kind branded sticker campaign, in collaboration with Blinkit, to connect with Gen Z consumers during the ongoing cricket season. The campaign brings Parle’s iconic biscuit brands into everyday digital conversations while extending the experience into the physical world through limited-edition sticker sheets distributed across select consumers in key metro cities.

The campaign features a range of expressive stickers inspired by popular Parle brands such as Parle-G, Happy Happy, Magix, and Hide & Seek Fab. Currently live on the GIPHY platform and accessible via WhatsApp under “Express with Parle,” these stickers are designed to capture everyday moods and moments, making conversations more fun, relatable, and shareable.

Building on this digital engagement, the physical rollout adds an element of surprise and discovery, allowing consumers to use these stickers beyond screens, on personal devices and in daily life. The initiative focuses on creating organic buzz and strengthening emotional connections, rather than large-scale distribution.

Commenting on the campaign, Mayank Shah, Chief Marketing Officer, Parle Products, said,

 “We are constantly exploring new ways to stay relevant in consumers’ lives. With stickers emerging as a popular mode of expression, this campaign allows us to be part of everyday conversations in a fun and contemporary way, while reinforcing the strong emotional bond people share with our brands.”

With this initiative, Parle Products continues to evolve its consumer engagement by blending nostalgia with modern formats bringing its legacy brands closer to a new generation in simple, yet meaningful ways.

DropTalk 2026, Water Sustainability Summit, Bringing Together Leaders in Water, Climate and Sustainability

Bengaluru, May 18: DropTalk 2026, a two-day summit dedicated to conversations, collaboration and action on water and climate sustainability, was held at Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bengaluru. Hosted by FluxGen Sustainable Technologies, in collaboration with Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Department of Instrumentation & Applied Physics, Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research (ICWaR), Centre for Sustainable Technologies (CST) and OpenWater. The summit is sponsored by Murugappa Water Technology and Solutions (MWTS).

The summit has brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, startups, environmentalists and students to deliberate on innovative and sustainable approaches to water management, climate resilience and environmental stewardship.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Rajeev Gowda highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers to address critical sustainability challenges. He emphasised that Bengaluru possesses the talent, institutions and innovation ecosystem required to emerge as a global hub for research-driven solutions in water and climate sustainability.

The event also featured thought-provoking discussions on the growing challenges of water scarcity, climate change and sustainable resource management. Experts stressed the importance of adopting integrated “One Water” approaches that combine rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, watershed protection, lake rejuvenation and efficient urban water management practices.

Addressing the gathering, Jaytheerth Nadgir underscored the importance of collective responsibility in securing a sustainable future for the next generation. He also highlighted India’s growing leadership in cleantech innovation and the need to recognise and support indigenous solutions emerging from startups, research institutions and industry.

DropTalk 2026 featured a wide range of engaging sessions and immersive experiences, including HydroMingle, Jal Samvaada, Flow Forward, Women in Water, lake walks, technology showcases and discussions on industrial water management and sustainability. One of the key highlights of the summit is the Painting Competition for school students, aimed at inspiring young minds to think creatively about sustainability, water conservation and environmental responsibility.

Dr. Krishna Raj, Professor and Head RBI Chair Professor Centre for Economic Studies and Policy Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) said “every drop of water has value, regardless of whether it comes from rivers, groundwater, rainwater or even wastewater. India urgently needs to redefine and reimagine water management, as climate change and rising demand are creating severe risks to future water availability. We know the price of water, but we often fail to understand its true value. Water is no longer a free resource — it is an economic, social and environmental asset that must be conserved and managed responsibly for future generations,” he observed.

Ganesh Shankar, Founder, FluxGen Sustainable Technologies said, “the real value of water is felt only when it runs dry. Urban India must move from a unidirectional water supply approach to an integrated ‘One Water’ management system that includes rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, lake restoration, watershed protection and efficient consumption practices. Source protection and watershed management are critical for ensuring sustainable water supply to cities like Bengaluru. Governments, industries and citizens must work together to improve water accounting, reduce pollution and promote equitable access to safe drinking water,”

Prof. Rajeev Gowda, former MP and Chair, Bengaluru Research and Innovation Network “Bengaluru has the talent, institutions and industry ecosystem needed to become a global hub for research and innovation. Through the Bengaluru Research and Innovation Network, we want to break silos, build collaborations and create platforms where interdisciplinary ideas can emerge and solve real-world challenges like water sustainability. We cannot allow Bengaluru to face a future of water scarcity. Two years ago, headlines warned that Bengaluru could become the next major city to run dry, but with integrated solutions such as wastewater reuse, rainwater harvesting, lake rejuvenation and groundwater recharge, we can build a sustainable water future for the city.”

“Water management requires both innovation and policy alignment. From projects like the KC Valley initiative to apartment-level wastewater treatment and reuse, Karnataka is already moving towards a ‘One Water’ approach, but we need more research-backed ideas and stronger collaboration between academia, policymakers and industry,” he added. According to him, “Water sustainability is not just a policy issue, it is a responsibility we owe to the next generation. I personally believe that we must act today so that we never have to apologise to our children for the environmental challenges they inherit tomorrow,”

Jaytheerth Nadgir, CEO Murugappa Water Technology & Solutions said “India is witnessing a golden phase of innovation in clean technologies. Startups, research institutions and industries are doing remarkable work in areas such as water management, sustainability and cleantech, and it is important that we recognise and celebrate our own achievements. The future of agriculture, sustainability and water conservation are deeply interconnected. If we truly want to improve farmers’ incomes and build a sustainable future, we must focus on the ‘soil to soul’ approach, where responsible management of natural resources becomes central to development,”

• Vaulting and Collection Centres are currently operational at Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
• Four additional centres at Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore are being activated, effective today.
• The Exchange will announce further centres in a phased manner, with the network expanding up to 120 centres across the country in due course of time.

Mumbai, May 18: Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India, recently visited Uganda to represent India at the swearing–in ceremony of H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda.

During the visit, Shri Chaudhary conveyed a message of solidarity and goodwill from the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and the people of India on the occasion of President Museveni assuming his seventh term in office. Highlighting the importance of political continuity and stability in fostering national development, Shri Chaudhary acknowledged Uganda’s steady progress and reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Uganda and the African continent.

Shri Chaudhary also visited the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU-I) Uganda Campus in Jinja, India’s first overseas public academic campus, which enrolled its inaugural batch of students in October 2025.

Commending the initiative, Shri Chaudhary expressed confidence that the campus would emerge as a centre of excellence for multidisciplinary forensic sciences, research and development, and capacity building. He noted that the institution symbolises the spirit of collaboration, friendship, and shared aspirations between India and Africa.

In Kampala, Shri Chaudhary also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora that reflected the deep people-to-people ties between India and Uganda. The visit reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to deepening cooperation with Uganda.

New Delhi, May 18 –Bharti Enterprises announced that Prudential plc (“Prudential”), a leading insurer and asset manager in Asia and Africa, has agreed to acquire a 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance Company Limited (“Bharti Life”), one of India’s leading life insurance providers, from Bharti Life Ventures Pvt Ltd (and other selling shareholders).

 Sunil Bharti Mittal, Founder and Chairman, Bharti Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Prudential Plc as the controlling shareholder of Bharti Life, further accelerating its growth trajectory. Prudential’s experience and global scale, combined with Bharti’s strong track record, create a formidable alliance to tap into the immense potential of India’s life insurance sector. This partnership opens new opportunities for Bharti Life’s employees and further reinforces the strategic relationship between India and the United Kingdom.”

 Commenting on the development, Karan Bhagat, Founder, MD & CEO, 360 ONE, said “Our private equity funds are pleased to have made a meaningful investment in Bharti Life Insurance and we have been encouraged by the company’s market-leading growth and strong momentum. Today’s transaction reflects both its current performance and long-term potential. We are also delighted to welcome Prudential PLC’s controlling investment in Bharti Life Insurance and look forward to continuing the distribution of the company’s products through our network.”

 This transaction comes with India’s life insurance sector undergoing rapid transformation, driven by digital adoption, increasing awareness, and rising demand for financial protection solutions. The market continues to present strong structural growth opportunities, supported by favorable demographics and relatively low life insurance penetration, indicating significant unmet demand.

Bharti Life Insurance, an entity of Bharti Enterprises, has built a strong presence in India through innovative life insurance solutions and an expanding footprint. The investment will support Bharti Life’s next phase of growth by enhancing its product offerings and expanding its distribution reach to better serve evolving customer needs.

 Bharti Life’s strong local presence, combined with Prudential’s established insurance expertise, is expected to expand access to life and health protection solutions across the country, supported by the combined brand strength and operational capabilities of both organizations.

 Completion of the transaction remains subject to receipt of regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other conditions.

 ~ Conversations and discussions at Goafest 2026 will be anchored in the defining idea of‘The Big Reset for Growth’ ~

May 16, 2026; Mumbai, India: Setting the stage for one of the most promising editions of South Asia’s premier advertising, media and marketing festival, Goafest 2026 today presents a stellar line-up of speakers, industry visionaries, and entertainment personalities who will collectively champion discussions and conversations around the 19th edition’s theme ‘Reset for Growth’.

The three-day festival will reflect the theme through a series of sessions that will tackle key industry shifts like the impact and influence of artificial intelligence, dilemmas around data ownership, evolving media consumption, the emergence of new media platforms, the greater need for measurement, and the role of creativity in powering business growth. With 60 speakers across 20 sessions, Goafest 2026 ensures a thorough representation of key voices from across the advertising, media, marketing, technology, and business ecosystem.

Some of the most significant leaders expected to take the Goafest 2026 stage are Prasar Bharati’s Chairperson, Padma Shri Prasoon Joshi (Omnicom Advertising India),NITI Aayog’s Former Vice Chairman, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Santosh Desai (Think9 Consumer Technologies), Advertising veteran Eugene Cheong (Euge Publishing), and Bollywood legend Rakesh Bedi.

Besides advertising and media industry leaders, this year Goafest will have a wider representation from the client ecosystem and brand custodians including Nikhil Sharma (Perfetti Van Melle, India), Aman Gupta (boAt), Rohit Kapoor (Swiggy), Chandan Mendiratta (Zepto), Veetika Deoras (IHCL), Tuhina Pandey (IBM), Tarun Bhagat (PepsiCo) Riya Joseph (Britannia Industries), Harsh Deep Chhabra (Godrej Consumer Products), Darshana Shah (Aditya Birla Capital), Prasun Kumar (MagicBricks), Punit Dharamsi (Association of Mutual Funds in India) Rajiv Dubey(Dabur India), Shubhranshu Singh (Marketing Leader & Ex CMO), Arpan Biswas (Ajio), Ajay Kakar (Adani) and Jahid Ahmed (HDFC Bank)among many more.

Leading the technology-led conversations are Satya Raghavan (Google India), Haran Ramachandran (Spotify), Neha Markanda (ShareChat). Ensuring entertainment is not amiss, Prince of Bhangra, Sukhbir Singh and Singer Neeti Mohan will also take the prestigious Goafest stage.

Bringing diverse themes into focus, Goafest will also witness sports personalities like the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, Harmanpreet Kaur, Entrepreneur and Sports Leader, Preeti Jhangiani; Parvinn Dabass (Pro Panja League), Former Indian National Football Team captain and goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan, Indian Kabaddi Player Rahul Chaudhari, Sameer Pathak, (Pickleball World Rankings) and Actor, Anchor, Author & Fitness Enthusiast, Mandira Bedi.

Mohit Joshi, Co-Chair of the Goafest 2026 Organising Committee and CEO, Havas Media Network India said,“We are witnessing a shift in consumer behaviour, new technology adoption and a lot more in India and worldwide. As the industry evolves, growth can only come from embracing fresh perspectives, cross-industry collaboration, and conversations that may seem tough in boardrooms. The breadth of perspectives through our speakers across all stages will surely mirror our industry’s dynamics while looking for opportunities that unlock growth.”

“The agenda this year reflects the urgent realities of our industry. ‘Reset for Growth’ isn’t just a theme; it is a call to action – one that has sparked stronger client participation than ever before. Over the three days, we will hear from voices across the entire ecosystem – from AI and data to storytelling and brand-building. GoaFest 2026 will not just be a platform for celebration, but also for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and future-shaping ideas.” added Rohit Ohri, Founder, Ohriginal & Member, GoaFest Advisory Committee

Scheduled to take place on May 20, 21 and 22, 2026 at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Goafest 2026 festival will centre conversations around reinvention, with a strong focus on how brands, agencies and platforms must reimagine, refine, and rebuild in an increasingly complex technology-driven ecosystem.

View the complete agenda on https://www.goafest.com/agenda

Register for via https://goafestreg.tecogis.com/MasterClassApp/masterclass

For more details on delegate passes, sponsor line-up and complete speaker list, visit www.goafest.com

Mangaluru, May 16: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, successfully hosted its 33rd Convocation in Mangaluru today, setting its graduating students on the path towards building rewarding careers. 

The convocation ceremony was held at the Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre, M G Road, Mangaluru. The ceremony brought together an eclectic gathering that included graduates, faculty members, university leadership, parents, dignitaries, and guests in celebration of academic excellence, perseverance, and new beginnings.

This year, a total of 1258 students graduated in undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Of these, 576 students attended the convocation ceremonies in person. The prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal was conferred on three outstanding students from various constituent institutions of MAHE – Mr. Navallpreet Singh Bhamra, MCODS Manipal (BDS), Ms. Adeeba Ali, MCODS, Mangalore (BDS), and Ms. Chaitra Shenoy U, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore (MBBS batch of 2021-22). 

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, conferred the degrees. Addressing the audience, Dr Ballal said, “As we celebrate the achievements of our graduating students, we also reflect on the remarkable journey of MAHE, from its visionary beginnings under the leadership of Dr TMA Pai to becoming a globally engaged Institution of Eminence with a presence across India and beyond. Over the decades, MAHE has remained committed to academic excellence, research, innovation, sustainability, and industry-aligned learning. Today, with strong global collaborations, advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, and an expanding digital education ecosystem reaching learners across countries, MAHE continues to nurture future-ready professionals equipped to lead with competence, integrity, and compassion.

At MAHE, we believe education must evolve continuously to meet the aspirations of a changing world while remaining rooted in strong values and social responsibility. Our sustained investments in multidisciplinary learning, research excellence, global partnerships, and sustainable infrastructure reflect this commitment. As our graduates step into the next phase of their journeys, I encourage them to embrace lifelong learning, lead with empathy and purpose, and contribute meaningfully towards building a more inclusive, innovative, and progressive society.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, reminded the students of the guiding beliefs of the institution, saying, “MAHE continues to strengthen its position as a globally engaged university driven by academic rigour, research excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. Our graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to navigate the evolving demands of the professional world and emerge as future-ready leaders.”

Providing an overview of MAHE, Dr Rao said, “Sustainability is a core priority for MAHE, reflected in our transition towards renewable energy and continued investments in sustainable infrastructure. At the same time, we are strengthening our research ecosystem, with a focus on areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, ensuring our work remains relevant and impactful to society.”

“MAHE continues to strengthen its research and innovation ecosystem, supported by sustained external funding and a strong publication base. We are particularly focused on emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, where our efforts are aligned to address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to societal needs,” he added.

The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Sudeep Gupta, Director, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, as the Chief Guest and Dr M. Shantharam Shetty, Pro Chancellor, NITTE (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, as the Guest of Honour. 

Delivering the Convocation address, Prof. (Dr) Gupta highlighted India’s rapid transformation into “Vikasit Bharat”. With life expectancy more than doubling since independence to 72 years today, he projected a future where India’s GDP and per capita income will quadruple by 2047. “What institutions like MAHE and Tata Memorial do today will determine what India will be in 2050,” he noted, urging graduates to drive a new “Wealth of Nations” built not on gold, but on the mastery of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and innovative healthcare delivery.

Beyond economic growth, his address focused on the unique, irreplaceable virtues of human healers in an era increasingly dominated by technology. Prof Gupta called on graduates to embrace “epistemic humility”—the moral commitment to truth and the courage to admit “I know not” when facing the inherent uncertainties of medicine. Contrasting human empathy with AI algorithms that may provide “imaginary” explanations. He reminded the Class of 2026 that their true power lies in the ability to connect with patients’ fears and their hopes. 

Guest of Honour Dr M. Shantharam Shetty, Pro Chancellor, NITTE (Deemed to be University), also spoke on the occasion. Addressing the students, he said, “The success story you have scripted so far will be your guiding light henceforth. I urge you to be responsible citizens of our nation and carry forward the rich legacy of MAHE that you have inherited.  I must also thank MAHE for its tireless efforts to churn out rich talents year after year so that not only as an individual, but also our society as a whole benefits from the cutting-edge knowledge.”    

Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology & Science, Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, and Dr Vinod V Thomas, Registrar Evaluation, graced the event with their esteemed presence.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Mangalore Campus, said: “Today is not only about recognising academic achievements, but also about celebrating the friendships, shared experiences, and enduring connections formed along the way. As our graduates move ahead, they carry the strength of a global MAHE network and a lifelong bond with their alma mater.”  

Dr B Unnikrishnan, Dean of Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore, introduced the Chief Guest and Dr Anil Bhat, Dean of KMC Manipal, introduced the guest of honour. Dr Ashita Uppoor, Dean, MCODS, Mangalore, proposed the vote of thanks.

Gangtok,  May 15 : Sayaji Hotels announces the launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Gangtok, marking its entry into one of India’s most captivating hill destinations. Set in the serene neighbourhood of Tathangchen, near the iconic Ridge Park, the hotel offers a refined stay experience in a city where mist-covered mountains, vibrant culture, and spiritual calm come together seamlessly.

Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,650 metres, Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, is often described as a “jewel of the Eastern Himalayas” and is known for its sweeping views of Mt Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. From winding mountain roads and lush valleys to monasteries, lakes, and bustling promenades, the city presents a rare balance of natural beauty and urban charm.

Strategically located just minutes from the Ridge and within easy reach of MG Marg, the city’s lively pedestrian boulevard, Effotel by Sayaji places guests at the centre of Gangtok’s cultural and social landscape. The Ridge Park itself, lined with Himalayan flora and scenic walkways, is a beloved local landmark, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

Designed for the modern traveller, the hotel features 32 thoughtfully appointed rooms, including Deluxe King, Deluxe Twin, and a spacious Suite. Each space reflects a clean, contemporary aesthetic paired with functionality, making it ideal for both leisure travellers exploring the region and business guests seeking a comfortable retreat in the hills. At the heart of the dining experience is The Cube, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, serving a multi-cuisine menu in a relaxed, contemporary setting perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Speaking on the launch, Rajendra Joshi (Associate General Manager) from Sayaji Hotels said,

“We are delighted to bring the Effotel by Sayaji experience to Gangtok, a destination that continues to grow in prominence among both leisure and experiential travellers. With this launch, we aim to offer a smart, comfortable, and well-connected stay option that complements the city’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Gangtok represents an exciting addition to our expanding footprint in emerging leisure markets across India.”

Sharing his thoughts on the opening, Sangay Tenzing Norbu (Managing director), owner of the property, added,

“We are proud to introduce Effotel by Sayaji to Gangtok, a city that holds immense potential as a year-round travel destination. This hotel has been envisioned as a space that reflects the region’s warmth and spirit while delivering the quality and consistency for which Sayaji is known. We look forward to welcoming guests and being a part of their Gangtok experience.”

Conveniently accessible, the hotel is located approximately 130 km from Bagdogra Airport and 120 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, offering connectivity while maintaining the charm of a quiet hillside retreat.

With this launch, Sayaji Hotels continues its expansion into high-potential leisure destinations, reinforcing its commitment to delivering smart, stylish hospitality experiences tailored to today’s evolving traveller.