Category: Business

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.

Karnataka, May 15: Aequs group and the Indian Institute of Technology –Dharwad (IIT-D), have set up an advanced research and development ecosystem for materials science and manufacturing innovation at IIT-D campus.

The facility is equipped to support advanced material characterization, failure analysis, manufacturing process simulation and optimization, enabling deeper industry-academia collaboration in precision-driven manufacturing domains.

This initiative lays the foundation for a dedicated “IIT Dharwad – Aequs Research and Development Center,” in the coming days to accelerate applied research, foster innovation, and bridge the gap between laboratory science and industrial application.

Commenting on the development, Aravind Melligeri, Executive Chairman and CEO, Aequs Ltd., said: “This partnership reflects Aequs’ long-term commitment to strengthening India’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem through sustained investments in research, innovation, and skill development. The collaboration will enhance IIT Dharwad’s applied research capabilities and industry engagement apart from enabling Aequs deliver cutting-edge products to its customers.” 

Prof. Venkappayya R. Desai, Director, IIT-D, said: “The operationalization of this advanced materials R&D facility with Aequs marks an important step in strengthening industry-aligned research at IIT Dharwad. This collaboration provides our students and researchers with direct exposure to real-world manufacturing challenges, while enabling meaningful contributions to high-impact industrial innovation. We see this as a model for deep academia-industry integration in emerging areas of materials science and advanced manufacturing”. 

The center is enabling detailed insights into material behavior and failure mechanisms, contributing to improved product quality, enhanced reliability, reduced failure rates, and more efficient manufacturing processes—critical for high-precision industries.

In addition to research, the facility is actively conducting hands-on training programs for engineers, researchers, and students, strengthening capabilities in advanced analysis of metals and non-metals. Aequs continues to support the center through technical assessments, equipment performance monitoring, and maintenance oversight, ensuring high standards of scientific rigor and operational excellence.

Unified platform to align national shipbuilding capabilities to drive maritime innovation and growth

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 15 May 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a global enabler of integrated trade, transport, industry, and logistics solutions, has announced the formation of the Consortium of UAE Shipbuilders, a unified platform across shipbuilding, vessel repair, fabrication, and marine engineering.

The Consortium brings together an initial group of national industry players spanning shipbuilding, steel production, marine engineering, and fabrication, including AD Ports Group, SAFEEN Drydocks, Premier Marine Engineering Services, Dubai Shipbuilding & Engineering (DSBE), Al Seer Marine, Dutch Oriental, JOME Engineering, Saifee, Blue Gulf Ship Builders, and MBK Marine Industries, among others.

The Consortium will enhance collaboration and strengthen the UAE’s position within the maritime industrial sector. It will improve visibility across project pipelines, enable more efficient procurement, and support coordinated execution, increasing delivery capability and overall sector competitiveness across the full maritime value chain, including increased participation by locally based small and medium-sized shipyards.

Led by Noatum Maritime, part of the Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, the initiative is designed to strengthen coordination across the domestic maritime sector and provide opportunities for small and medium-sized companies to access larger and more complex projects in both local and international markets. 

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, said: “The establishment of the UAE’s first Shipbuilders Consortium reflects our commitment to advancing the nation’s industrial capabilities, in line with the vision of our wise leadership in the UAE and broader economic diversification objectives. By strengthening alignment across the sector, we are enabling greater scale, enhancing competitiveness, and positioning the UAE to play a more prominent role in global maritime trade and manufacturing. Through our maritime division, we are helping to shape a more connected and competitive national shipbuilding ecosystem.”

Noatum Maritime delivers shipbuilding and repair capabilities in the UAE through SAFEEN Drydocks, a joint venture with Premier Marine Engineering Services. Internationally, SAFEEN Drydocks has expanded its shipbuilding footprint by acquiring the Balenciaga Shipyard in Spain, further strengthening its ability to support complex vessel construction and fabrication projects across global markets.

As the lead entity, Noatum Maritime is well-positioned to define the governance and commercial framework for the Consortium, ensuring alignment with the UAE’s strategic goals for industrial growth and economic diversification.

India, May 15: Saudi welcomes Miraval The Red Sea today on Shura Island, marking the wellness brand’s first property outside the United States. The opening represents a significant milestone for Saudi’s growing luxury and wellness tourism offering, while further reinforcing The Red Sea’s positioning as a leading regenerative destination focused on immersive, experience-led travel.

The adults-only retreat features 180 rooms, suites, and villas designed around mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and rest, offering guests personalised wellness experiences within a nature-led setting on the shores of the Red Sea. The resort combines luxury hospitality with wellbeing-focused programming, including the Body Mindfulness Center, Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen, Serenity and Aquatic Centers, spa facilities, mindfulness workshops, movement experiences, and water-based activities. The property also operates as a digital device-free environment designed to encourage presence, restoration, and self-discovery.

The opening reflects Saudi’s continued expansion into high-value tourism segments and growing international confidence in the destination’s luxury and wellness offering. It also comes amid strong tourism momentum across the Kingdom, with occupancy at The Red Sea destination reaching 82% during the final 10 days of Ramadan, ahead of an expected increase in demand during Eid Al-Adha.

Located at the heart of The Red Sea destination, Miraval The Red Sea is accessible via Red Sea International Airport (RSI), followed by a 25–30-minute EV transfer. Additional flights have been added to RSI for the upcoming Eid period, alongside a curated programme of dining, entertainment and cultural experiences for guests staying at the destination.

Miraval The Red Sea also supports Saudi’s broader tourism diversification strategy by strengthening the destination’s appeal among luxury and wellness travellers seeking transformative, nature-driven experiences.

New Delhi, 15 May : Divyansh Group, a prominent real estate developer in the Delhi-NCR region, today announced the successful delivery of over 5.7 million square feet of residential development across Ghaziabad, Noida, and other NCR micro-markets. Since its inception in 2001, the company has consistently catered to mid and upper-mid-income homebuyers by delivering thoughtfully designed and quality homes.

Over the past 25 years, Divyansh Group has established a strong presence by successfully completing numerous residential projects and builder floors. Its portfolio includes developments such as Divyansh Onyx, Divyansh Flora, Divyansh Fabio, Divyansh Arc Angels, Ska Divya Tower, and Skardi Greens. Each project represents the company’s dedication to timely delivery, quality construction, and homes that meet the evolving needs of modern families. 

Commenting on the success, Mr. Chanderjeet Pathak, Chairman of Divyansh Group said, 

“True success is not just about the scale of projects but delivering them with integrity and quality. My career began on construction sites, which gave me hands-on experience that continues to guide our approach. We prioritize realistic timelines, maintain high construction standards, and consistently honour our commitments to buyers. As we enter a new phase of growth amid a competitive market, our focus remains on building homes that stand the test of time.”

Currently, Divyansh Group has approximately 4.4 million square feet of residential development underway, which includes ongoing projects such as Divyansh Green Heights and Divyansh Orion Homes, along with upcoming developments in Siddharth Vihar, Hapur, and Wave City. This pipeline reflects the company’s continued focus on expanding its presence while delivering well-planned residential communities.

Looking ahead, Divyansh Group aims to deliver more than 2,200 homes over the next three years, reinforcing its position as a trusted builder in the Delhi-NCR region and its dedication to meet the housing needs of its customers.

Mumbai, India May 15: Homegrown luxury watch brand Argos Watches has launched Olympus II, its latest automatic watch collection, continuing the brand’s strong growth in India’s affordable luxury segment.

Following the rapid sell-out of previous collections including Olympus I and Apollo III, the new launch witnessed over 34,000 pre-launch sign-ups, highlighting the growing demand for premium automatic watches among Indian consumers.

Inspired by Japanese watchmaking, the Argos team travelled to Japan earlier this year as part of the development process behind Olympus II. The collection features Japanese Miyota automatic movement technology, open-heart dials, sapphire crystal glass, fluted detailing, and refined finishing that combine timeless craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.

Olympus II reflects the brand’s focus on making premium automatic watches more accessible to a new generation of consumers.

The launch also marks Argos Watches’ entry into women’s automatic watches under the Olympus line, carrying forward the same craftsmanship and detailing in a more compact design.

“Olympus II is a reflection of what our community has consistently asked for – elevated finishing, stronger movements, and thoughtful design,” shared the team at Argos Watches.

Backed by strong community demand and repeated sold-out launches, Argos Watches is steadily emerging as one of India’s fastest-growing independent watch brands.