Category: Business

Nagpur: Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, currently on a two-day visit to Western Coalfields Limited (WCL), virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several infrastructure and development projects while reviewing the company’s operational performance.

During the programme on Friday, the Minister virtually flagged off 25 electric vehicles aimed at supporting cleaner and more efficient operations within the organisation. He also laid the foundation stones for three major projects: the Black Diamond Sports Stadium in the Kamptee area of Nagpur, the Swami Vivekananda Eco Park in Tadali in Wani area, and a First Mile Connectivity (FMC) Project at the Sasti Open Cast Mine in the Ballarpur area.

The projects are expected to strengthen regional infrastructure, promote environmental sustainability, and modernise coal mining operations.

Following the inauguration, the Union Minister conducted a detailed review meeting on WCL’s performance, focusing on coal production, safety measures, sustainable development initiatives, environmental protection, and upcoming projects.

Praising the work culture and performance of the organisation, Reddy commended Team WCL for its achievements and expressed confidence that the company would deliver even stronger results in the current financial year. He also discussed WCL’s role in the evolving landscape of the coal industry.

During the meeting, WCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan presented a detailed overview of the company’s achievements during the financial year 2025–26.

Senior officials present at the meeting included Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal, B. Sairam, Chairman of Coal India Limited, along with other senior officers from the Ministry of Coal, Coal India Limited, and WCL.

As part of his visit, the Union Minister will also inspect the ongoing mine closure process at the Murpar underground mine on March 14, 2026. He is scheduled to hold a meeting with the District Collector and members of the Mine Closure Advisory Committee (MCAC).

Representatives from WCL’s Mine Closure team, non-governmental organisations, consultants, and members of local villages are expected to participate in the meeting to discuss issues related to mine closure and rehabilitation.

India’s medical devices industry is entering a period of rapid transformation. Long considered a small but essential part of the healthcare ecosystem, the sector is now drawing major policy attention and investor interest as the country works toward a projected $30 billion market by 2030.

Industry analysts say the growth will be driven by a combination of rising healthcare demand, government incentives for domestic manufacturing, and increasing adoption of advanced medical technologies.

A Market on a Strong Growth Path

India’s medical devices market is currently estimated at around $12–14 billion, but the sector has been expanding at a double-digit annual growth rate of roughly 15%. If this pace continues, the market could more than double within the next five years.

Several structural factors are supporting this expansion. India’s population of more than 1.4 billion is aging, lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions are rising, and access to healthcare services is improving across smaller cities. Together, these trends are increasing the demand for diagnostic equipment, implants, consumables, and digital medical technologies.

Hospitals and diagnostic centers are also investing more heavily in modern equipment as healthcare infrastructure grows in both public and private sectors.

Government Push for Domestic Manufacturing

A major catalyst for growth has been the government’s push to reduce import dependence and strengthen local manufacturing.

India currently imports around 70–80% of its medical devices, particularly high-value products such as imaging equipment, implants, and advanced diagnostic systems. To address this gap, the government has introduced initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for medical devices, along with the creation of dedicated medical device parks in several states.

These measures aim to attract global manufacturers, encourage domestic production, and create a stronger supply chain ecosystem.

Policy support is also helping the industry move beyond low-value consumables toward more sophisticated products such as diagnostic imaging systems, surgical equipment, and high-precision implants.

Growing Investment and Global Partnerships

Global medical technology companies are increasingly looking at India as both a manufacturing hub and a major growth market.

International firms are expanding local production facilities and forming partnerships with Indian manufacturers to serve both domestic and export markets. At the same time, Indian startups are entering the field with innovations in digital health, AI-enabled diagnostics, and affordable medical technologies designed for emerging markets.

Venture capital investment in health technology has also accelerated, with investors backing companies developing portable diagnostic devices, wearable monitoring systems, and telemedicine platforms.

Opportunities in Tier-2 and Tier-3 Cities

While metropolitan hospitals have traditionally driven demand for advanced medical equipment, the next wave of growth is expected to come from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

Healthcare infrastructure is expanding rapidly in these regions as private hospital chains and diagnostic networks move beyond major urban centers. Government health insurance programs and rising middle-class incomes are also increasing healthcare access.

As a result, demand for imaging equipment, point-of-care diagnostic devices, and affordable medical technologies is rising across smaller cities and semi-urban areas.

Challenges Remain

Despite strong growth prospects, the sector still faces several challenges.

Industry leaders often cite regulatory complexity, limited domestic component manufacturing, and price controls on certain medical devices as areas that need further policy clarity. High research and development costs also make it difficult for smaller companies to scale advanced technology production.

Supply chain constraints and reliance on imported components remain another concern for manufacturers aiming to build a fully integrated domestic ecosystem.

The Road to 2030

Even with these challenges, the long-term outlook for India’s medical devices sector remains optimistic.

If current growth momentum continues, analysts believe the industry could reach $30 billion by 2030, positioning India as one of the fastest-growing medical device markets in the world.

For policymakers, the sector offers an opportunity to strengthen healthcare infrastructure while building a globally competitive manufacturing base. For investors and technology companies, it represents a market where demand, innovation, and policy support are beginning to align.

The coming decade will determine whether India can turn this potential into a robust medical technology ecosystem that serves both domestic healthcare needs and global markets.

Mar 14th:  FUJIFILM India, a leader in advanced diagnostic imaging and healthcare technology, has announced the installation of a comprehensive suite of advanced diagnostic and medical equipment at Porunai Hospitals, Tirunelveli, further strengthening the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities and reinforcing the role of technology in expanding access to quality healthcare in South India.

The installation includes CT System Supria 32, Amulet Innovality Mammography which includes the state-of-the-art features available globally, FDR Smart F – 40 kW Digital Radiography, Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD), along with EP 6000 Endoscopy video processor with Multi-LED light source and Dry Chemistry analyser DRI-CHEM NX 600, enabling Porunai Hospitals to enhance its diagnostic ecosystem across multiple clinical domains.

At the center of this deployment is the Supria 32 CT system, a 32-slice CT platform designed to deliver high-resolution imaging with optimized radiation dose and efficient workflows across routine and advanced diagnostics. The installation marks the first deployment of the Supria 32 CT system in Tamil Nadu, reflecting Porunai Hospitals’ commitment to adopting advanced imaging technologies to support accurate diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. 

Complementing the CT platform is the FDR Smart F digital radiography system, which enables high-quality imaging with fast acquisition speeds and dose-optimized performance across a wide range of radiography applications. Designed to support high-throughput clinical environments, the system enhances operational efficiency while ensuring reliable diagnostic performance for everyday clinical needs.

The deployment also includes the Amulet Innovality mammography system, a digital mammography platform equipped with advanced detector technology and low-dose imaging capabilities. As the first installation of its kind in South Tamil Nadu, the system strengthens women’s healthcare services in the region by supporting early and accurate breast cancer detection through advanced imaging technology. 

Further strengthening preventive diagnostic capabilities, an advanced Bone Mineral Densitometry (BMD) system has also been installed, enabling precise assessment of bone health and early detection of osteoporosis. This installation marks the first advanced BMD system in South Tamil Nadu, expanding access to specialized diagnostics and preventive screening in the region. In addition to imaging technologies, the deployment also includes EP 6000 Endoscopy video processor with Multi-LED light source and Dry Chemistry analyser DRI-CHEM NX 600, helping Porunai Hospitals strengthen its diagnostic ecosystem across multiple clinical domains, including gastroenterology, pathology, and preventive screening.

Commenting on the development, Dr D.R. Sivakumar MBBS, MS, DLS, Medical Superintendent, Porunai Hospitals and Research Centre, said, “At Porunai Hospitals, our focus has always been to strengthen diagnostic capabilities so that patients in our region have access to reliable and advanced healthcare services. The installation of these advanced imaging and diagnostic systems significantly enhances our ability to provide accurate and timely diagnosis across multiple clinical areas, including radiology, preventive screening, etc.”

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Nagaraj Kempaiah, National Head – Private Business, FUJIFILM India, said: “At FUJIFILM India, our commitment is closely aligned with the Fujifilm Group’s global purpose of ‘Giving our world more smiles’ by expanding access to reliable, advanced, and patient-centric diagnostic technology. Tamil Nadu continues to be one of India’s most progressive healthcare markets, with a strong focus on preventive healthcare, cancer screening, and technology-driven clinical services. Partnerships such as this with Porunai Hospitals play an important role in bringing advanced imaging solutions closer to Tier-2 and Tier-3 regions. Our collaboration reflects Fujifilm’s commitment to strengthening regional healthcare infrastructure by supporting hospitals with innovative technologies that enable early detection, clinical confidence, and improved patient outcomes.”

Through collaborations with progressive healthcare institutions such as Porunai Hospitals, FUJIFILM India continues to expand access to advanced diagnostic technologies, supporting early detection, preventive healthcare, and improved clinical outcomes while enabling healthcare providers to manage increasing patient volumes with greater efficiency and diagnostic confidence.

DALLAS, Mar 14th:  Patients without diabetes who switched GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) drugs for overweight or obesity were more likely to stick with their treatment longer than those who didn’t switch, according to a new study by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, suggest that medication changes are not uncommon among patients undergoing weight loss and that clinicians should encourage them to change GLP-1RAs if necessary to promote continuity of care.

“This study provides one of the largest real-world descriptions to date of how adults with overweight or obesity use and switch GLP-1RAs over time,” said first author Luyu (Amber) Xie, Ph.D., Pharm.D., Assistant Professor in the Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health and co-Director of the Biostatistics and Data Science Core at UT Southwestern. “It highlights that long-term persistence is low and that switching between medications is a relatively common part of ongoing treatment rather than a sign of failure.”

The study examined insurance claims from nearly 127,000 U.S. adults with overweight or obesity who initiated GLP-1 therapy between 2019 and 2024. By tracking medication use over 12 months, the researchers found that treatment often did not follow a linear path. Instead, many patients adjusted therapy in response to side effects, access, insurance coverage, and the introduction of new medications.

GLP-1RAs, including semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide, are now a central part of obesity treatment. However, maintaining long-term adherence to the drugs has been challenging.  

In the study, only a quarter of the patients remained on any GLP-1RA one year after starting, with roughly 1 in 5 patients transitioning to a different GLP-1RA during that period. Patients who switched were more likely to continue treatment and showed higher adherence than those who remained on their initial medication, suggesting adjustments often reflected active management.
“Switching between GLP-1RA medications should be viewed as a normal part of long-term obesity care,” said senior author Sarah Messiah, Ph.D., M.P.H., Professor of Epidemiology and Pediatrics, Associate Dean for Research in the O’Donnell School of Public Health, and Director of the Child and Adolescent Population Health Program. “Persistence should not be judged by staying on a single drug indefinitely, but by maintaining engagement in care and working with clinicians to find sustainable, effective treatment strategies over time.”

The researchers also visualized treatment pathways to illustrate how patients transitioned among medications during the study period. Newer, once-weekly injectable therapies frequently served as both starting points and switch destinations, reflecting their growing role in obesity management.

“In today’s clinical environment, successful obesity care often involves adapting treatment over time rather than expecting a single medication to meet every patient’s needs indefinitely,” said co-author Jaime Almandoz, M.D., M.B.A., Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and Medical Director of UTSW’s Weight Wellness Program.

The findings underscore the importance of setting clear expectations with patients early in treatment, including the possibility that more than one medication may be prescribed before a long-term approach is identified. 

The authors said future research will explore how patient characteristics, specific medications, and timing of therapy influence treatment trajectories, with the goal of informing more personalized and sustainable approaches to obesity care.

Other UTSW researchers who contributed to this study are Diego Anazco Villarreal, M.D., Internal Medicine resident; Azucena Herrera Chancay, M.D., Internal Medicine fellow; M. Sunil Mathew, M.S., Senior Population Science Data Manager; and Jackson Francis, M.P.H., Population Science Project Coordinator.

The study was supported by the UTSW Clinical and Translational Science Award, the National Institutes of Health (1U54TR00236), the Texas Health Resource Clinical Scholar program, and the UTSW Nutrition & Obesity Research Center (NORC). 

Jaipur: In contemporary interiors, certain elements have the ability to define a space almost instantly. Among them, statement chandeliers hold a particularly influential role. More than sources of illumination, they act as architectural anchors, establishing visual identity, reinforcing spatial hierarchy, and bringing cohesion to the design. Their presence shapes not only how a room looks, but how it is experienced.

As homes increasingly embrace open layouts and expansive volumes, the role of the chandelier has become even more significant. These fixtures introduce structure within openness, helping organize space without the need for physical divisions. A well-placed chandelier naturally draws the eye, creating a focal point that grounds the surrounding design.

“A chandelier has the ability to transform the perception of a room,” says Naman Jain, Founder of Lumeil. “It becomes a visual reference point that helps define proportion, scale, and atmosphere. When chosen thoughtfully, it strengthens the architectural intent rather than simply adding decoration.”

In living areas, chandeliers often become the defining visual element. A piece like the Mushroom Medley Crystal Chandelier introduces depth through its layered crystal composition, allowing light to interact dynamically with the space. Its presence adds dimension without overwhelming the environment, making it particularly suited to contemporary interiors that balance minimalism with warmth.

Similarly, the Orbit Rose Gold Crystal Chandelier offers a sculptural expression of modern lighting. Its circular form introduces rhythm and continuity, while the rose gold finish brings a sense of subtle richness. Fixtures like these demonstrate how chandeliers contribute not only illumination, but also spatial character.

Their importance becomes even more evident in entrance foyers and double-height volumes, where lighting must complement architectural scale. A carefully selected chandelier enhances vertical continuity, guiding the eye upward and reinforcing the openness of the space.

“Entrance spaces set the tone for what follows,” explains Jain. “A chandelier placed here creates an immediate sense of identity. It introduces clarity and establishes the design language from the moment one enters.”

While chandeliers provide focal presence, wall lighting plays an equally important supporting role. Fixtures such as the Opalescent Warm White Indoor Wall Light introduce softness and depth, highlighting surfaces while ensuring visual continuity. These elements work together to create layered environments where light enhances both form and material.

Wall lights also contribute to the rhythm of a space, particularly in corridors and transitional areas. They ensure that the experience of moving through a space feels intentional rather than incidental.

At Lumeil, the approach to decorative lighting is rooted in understanding how fixtures interact with architecture. Each piece is selected not only for its visual appeal, but for its ability to integrate seamlessly into the design.

“We see lighting as an essential architectural element,” says Naman Jain. “The right chandelier becomes part of the space’s identity. It adds depth, reinforces structure, and ensures that the environment feels complete.”

As contemporary interiors continue to evolve toward openness and material clarity, statement chandeliers remain central to defining spatial character. They bring presence without excess and clarity without distraction. When thoughtfully integrated, they do more than illuminate. They help shape spaces that feel enduring, intentional, and complete.

Pic Credit: Pexel

In 2025, Gift Nifty—India’s key index for exchange-traded derivatives—achieved a record monthly turnover, reflecting its growing significance as a tool for market participants seeking early signals and better-informed trading strategies. The surge in activity underscores a broader shift in how investors, both domestic and foreign, approach pre-market analysis in India’s fast-moving equity markets.

Why Gift Nifty is Gaining Momentum

Gift Nifty provides a window into expected market movements before the regular trading session begins. By tracking overnight global trends, macroeconomic developments, and derivatives activity, traders can anticipate market direction, adjust positions, and manage risks more effectively.

Over the past few years, the index has increasingly attracted attention from foreign institutional investors (FII) and domestic institutional investors (DII). Investors now combine real-time FII and DII inflow and outflow data with Gift Nifty trends to make data-driven pre-market decisions, creating a feedback loop that strengthens market efficiency.

Record Turnover Signals Rising Engagement

The record monthly turnover in 2025 indicates that more participants are using Gift Nifty not just for speculative purposes but also for strategic hedging, arbitrage, and risk management. Analysts suggest that this trend reflects both the growing sophistication of Indian equity markets and the increased reliance on derivatives as a risk management tool.

Integrating FII and DII Data for Pre-Market Insights

Institutional flows play a crucial role in shaping market sentiment. By monitoring FII purchases or sales alongside DII activity, traders can identify likely market trends and potential reversals. For instance:

• FII buying trends often indicate bullish sentiment among global investors.

• DII flows can signal domestic confidence and provide a counterbalance to global pressures.

• Combined analysis enables pre-market positioning that aligns with anticipated market moves.

Market participants are increasingly integrating this data with Gift Nifty’s early signals, allowing for more precise risk-adjusted strategies ahead of the market open.

Implications for Traders and Investors

The rising importance of Gift Nifty suggests a few key takeaways for investors:

1. Enhanced Pre-Market Preparation – Traders can monitor overnight global cues and institutional flows to make informed decisions before the trading session begins.

2. Improved Risk Management – Combining derivative signals with institutional investor activity helps manage exposure and hedge portfolios more effectively.

3. Market Transparency and Efficiency – Higher turnover and data integration support better price discovery and reduce informational asymmetry.

Looking Ahead

As Indian markets continue to grow in depth and sophistication, Gift Nifty’s role as a pre-market barometer is likely to expand. The index not only provides a snapshot of market expectations but also reflects broader trends in investor behaviour, including reliance on data analytics, institutional flow tracking, and algorithmic trading tools.

For both retail and institutional participants, the combination of Gift Nifty signals and FII/DII flow data is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of pre-market strategy, highlighting how technology and real-time data are shaping the future of trading in India.

Pic Credit: Pexel

Daikin India is preparing to significantly expand its manufacturing footprint in the country, with plans to increase its annual room air conditioner production capacity to 4 million units by 2030.

Currently, the company produces around 3 million room AC units each year in India. The proposed expansion comes as demand for cooling solutions continues to rise across residential and commercial segments, driven by urbanisation, rising incomes, and increasing temperatures.

New Manufacturing Facility Planned

As part of its long-term growth strategy, the Indian subsidiary of Japan-based air-conditioning major Daikin Industries is planning to establish a new manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh. The facility will be the company’s fourth production unit in India and will play a crucial role in boosting overall manufacturing capacity.

The new plant is expected to support the company’s efforts to strengthen domestic production capabilities while ensuring a stable supply of air conditioners to meet growing market demand.

Tapping India’s Growing Cooling Market

India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing markets for air conditioning globally. Rapid urban expansion, rising middle-class consumption, and climate-related factors are contributing to a steady increase in demand for cooling appliances.

By expanding its manufacturing base locally, Daikin aims to enhance its competitiveness in the Indian market while supporting the country’s broader push toward domestic manufacturing.

Long-Term Manufacturing Strategy

The company has been steadily increasing its investments in India, recognising the country’s importance as both a major consumer market and a potential export hub. Expanding production capacity and setting up a new facility will also help strengthen the local supply chain and create employment opportunities.

With the planned expansion and the new plant in Andhra Pradesh, Daikin India is positioning itself to capture future growth in the cooling appliances market while reinforcing its long-term commitment to manufacturing in India.

Pic Credit: Pexel

The Indian government has taken a significant step toward strengthening the country’s shipbuilding ecosystem by granting in-principle approval to 288 shipbuilding contracts worth ₹19,748 crore, covering the construction of 456 vessels across multiple categories.

According to Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the approvals were granted under the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP), a key initiative designed to encourage domestic shipbuilding and enhance the competitiveness of Indian shipyards.

Financial Support to Shipyards

The government has already disbursed ₹620.57 crore in financial assistance to 23 shipyards that have completed the construction and delivery of 204 vessels under the scheme. The policy provides financial incentives to domestic shipbuilders to offset cost disadvantages and promote large-scale vessel construction within the country.

The vessels covered under the approved contracts span a wide range of maritime applications. These include tugs, general cargo vessels, bulk carriers, oil tankers, crane pontoons, heavy deck cargo vessels, Ro-Ro passenger vessels, crew boats, passenger ferries, landing crafts, and self-elevating platforms. Such diversity reflects the growing demand for both commercial and specialised maritime vessels in India’s coastal and inland shipping sectors.

New Push Through Shipbuilding Development Scheme

To further strengthen the industry, the government approved the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SBDS) in September 2025. The scheme aims to improve financing access for shipyards and expand their production capacity.

Under the initiative, the government will offer credit risk coverage to Indian shipyards and provide viability gap funding to support the expansion of existing or brownfield shipbuilding facilities. Operational guidelines for the scheme have recently been issued, enabling shipyards to begin applying for support.

Shipbuilding Sector Holds Strong Job Potential

An independent assessment of India’s shipbuilding industry conducted in 2024 highlighted the sector’s strong employment potential. According to the report, shipbuilding has an employment multiplier of 6.4, meaning that every job created in the sector can generate more than six additional jobs across related industries such as steel, engineering, logistics, and maritime services.

This indicates that expanding shipbuilding capacity could significantly contribute to both direct and indirect job creation, particularly in coastal regions where shipyards are located.

Challenges Hindering Growth

Despite its potential, the study also pointed out several structural challenges affecting the growth of the industry. These include limited domestic demand for ships, high financing costs, technological gaps, and capacity constraints within shipyards.

To address these issues and strengthen India’s position in the global shipbuilding market, the government has introduced several policy initiatives. These include the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy, the Maritime Development Fund (MDF), and the Shipbuilding Development Scheme.

₹44,700 Crore Push for Maritime Infrastructure

In a major boost to the maritime sector, the government has also notified operational guidelines for two key shipbuilding initiatives with a combined outlay of ₹44,700 crore. These programmes aim to expand India’s domestic shipbuilding capacity, modernise shipyards, and improve the industry’s global competitiveness.

Under the financial assistance framework, which has a total allocation of ₹24,736 crore, shipbuilders will receive government support ranging from 15% to 25% of the vessel cost, depending on the type and category of ship being constructed.

Long-Term Vision for Indian Shipbuilding

The government expects these initiatives to transform India’s shipbuilding ecosystem over the coming decade by attracting investment, modernising infrastructure, and increasing domestic production capacity.

Strengthening shipbuilding capabilities is also seen as essential for India’s broader maritime ambitions, including expanding coastal shipping, improving port connectivity, and supporting the country’s growing role in global trade.

By encouraging domestic ship construction and supporting shipyards financially, policymakers hope to position India as a more competitive player in the international shipbuilding industry while generating employment and boosting economic activity across the maritime sector.

Bengaluru, Mar 14: Mana Projects, a Bengaluru-based real estate developer known for its thoughtfully designed residential communities, has announced Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor as its brand ambassador alongside the unveiling of its refreshed brand identity. The association marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey as it sharpens its focus on design-led living, sustainable communities and the aspirations of modern urban homebuyers.

 The renewed brand identity reflects Mana Projects’ evolving philosophy of creating residential environments where space, design, nature, imagination and engineering come together to deliver meaningful living experiences. Anchored in the belief of building with nature rather than over it, the company continues to develop communities that integrate thoughtful architecture, ecological sensitivity and contemporary lifestyle needs.

Speaking on the milestone, D. Kishore Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of Mana Projects, said:

“This rebranding represents the natural evolution of Mana Projects as we align ourselves with the aspirations of a new generation of homeowners, particularly millennials who form the backbone of Bengaluru’s dynamic homebuyer community. Today’s homebuyers seek more than just an apartment; they look for thoughtfully designed spaces, meaningful community living and a deeper connection with nature. At Mana, our philosophy centres on creating homes where space is purposeful, design is intelligent, nature is respected and engineering ensures long-term sustainability. Our association with Ranbir Kapoor reflects this new chapter as we continue to build communities that enable people to truly live brilliantly.”

Commenting on the association, Ranbir Kapoor said:

“A home is one of the most meaningful investments people make in their lives, and it should reflect comfort, warmth and a sense of belonging. What impressed me about Mana Projects is the brilliance of their thought, the way design, nature and functionality come together to enhance everyday living. I’m delighted to be associated with Mana Projects as they continue to create homes that inspire modern urban families to truly live brilliantly.”

The collaboration will be unveiled through a large-scale integrated campaign spanning digital, outdoor and experiential platforms, marking one of the most significant brand initiatives by Mana Projects in recent years. The refreshed identity reinforces the developer’s commitment to creating homes that inspire modern living while respecting ecological balance through innovative design, energy-efficient engineering and nature-integrated planning.

Over the past two decades, Mana Projects has built a strong portfolio of residential developments across Bengaluru, particularly along emerging growth corridors such as Sarjapur Road. As the city expands and a new generation of homeowners seeks well-planned communities, the developer has focused on creating amenity-rich neighbourhoods that combine functionality, sustainability and quality of life.

Looking ahead, Mana Projects plans to strengthen its presence across Bengaluru by developing future-ready residential communities designed for evolving lifestyles—including hybrid work culture and multigenerational living—while integrating green environments and innovative engineering to enhance everyday living.

Pune, Mar 13: The Life Transformation Centre (LTC), a unique initiative in higher education, was inaugurated at Boribel in Daund taluka of Pune district. Established in memory of Urmila V. Karad, the revered mother of Dr. Rahul V. Karad – Initiator & Vision, Life Transformation Centre (LTC); who conceptualised the centre. The centre aims to nurture the holistic development of students by reconnecting them with nature, society, and their inner selves through experiential and value-based learning.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several distinguished leaders from government, spirituality, defence, and sports. Among the prominent dignitaries present were spiritual leader Swami Ramdev and Shri Ronjan Sodhi, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awardee and international trap shooter. The event was chaired by UNESCO Chair Holder Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad – Founder & Chief Patron, MAEER’s MIT, Pune; President, MIT World Peace University; and Creator of the World Peace Dome.

Video messages were shared by Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Dattatray Vithoba Bharne, Minister of Agriculture of Maharashtra; Lt. Gen. Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, Pune; and Chandrakant Patil, Minister of Higher and Technical Education of Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, attended the event virtually.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, “Today’s youth face intense competition, academic pressure, and the distractions of the digital world, often drifting away from the deeper meaning of life. The Life Transformation Centre offers a powerful answer by reconnecting young people with nature, agriculture, discipline, and spirituality. As the son of a farmer, I deeply resonate with the vision of ‘Connecting the Soul to the Soil.’ When young people experience the value of soil, food, and hard work, they develop respect for farmers, nature, and society. This initiative reflects the spirit of experiential learning envisioned in India’s National Education Policy and will help nurture responsible, confident, and nation-building youth for a stronger India.”

Shri Devendra Fadnavis said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the inauguration of the Life Transformation Centre at Boribel, Pune. The land of Maharashtra has long been a source of inspiration for saints, social reformers, and nation builders. From the spiritual legacy of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram Maharaj to the transformative vision of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule, this land has upheld the tradition of linking knowledge with service, ethics, and the welfare of society. The Life Transformation Centre, built on the pillars of Agriculture and Nature, Physical Fitness and Sports, Team Building and Leadership, Patriotism and Nation Building, and Spirituality and Peace, will help students develop confidence, discipline, leadership, and compassion.”

Swami Ramdev said, “Today, I feel immense joy to be part of the inauguration of the Life Transformation Centre. Institutions like MIT World Peace University are doing a remarkable job by nurturing not just academic excellence but also character, values, and national responsibility among young people. Educating lakhs of students and guiding them from personal development to nation-building is a great service to society. I come from a humble farming background and understand how powerful education and self-discipline can be in transforming lives. Every young person carries immense potential, but it must be guided by a larger purpose beyond personal success. We should not limit our dreams to jobs or salaries; rather, we should aspire to contribute to society and the nation. Through initiatives like the Life Transformation Centre, students will learn the importance of nature, self-discipline, health, and leadership. I congratulate Dr. Vishwanath Karad, Dr. Rahul Karad, and the entire MIT family for creating such a transformative platform for youth.”

Speaking about the vision behind the initiative, Dr. Rahul Karad said, “This initiative has been envisioned as a unique platform where students can reconnect with nature, rural life, and the deeper values of Indian civilization through experiential learning. The centre is built on five pillars—agriculture and nature, spirituality and peace, sports and physical fitness, team building and leadership, and patriotism and nation building. Through this initiative, we aim to shape responsible, self-aware, and socially conscious youth. I believe this centre will serve as a transformative laboratory for education, inspiring students to contribute meaningfully to society and to the vision of a harmonious and sustainable world.”

The programmes at the Life Transformation Centre are structured around five key pillars—Agriculture and Nature, Physical Fitness and Sports, Team Building and Leadership, Patriotism and Nation Building, and Spirituality and Peace. Through these pillars, the centre aims to nurture students’ physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being while instilling a strong sense of responsibility towards society and the nation.

A distinctive aspect of the centre is its emphasis on simplicity and mindful living. In an age dominated by mobile phones, social media, and rising stress levels, the centre promotes the principle of minimalism, encouraging participants to adopt simpler lifestyles, reduce distractions, and focus on meaningful aspects of life.

By integrating nature-based learning, leadership development, and value-driven education, the Life Transformation Centre seeks to create a new paradigm in higher education. The initiative aims to empower young individuals to become responsible citizens and contribute meaningfully towards building a stronger India and a more harmonious world.