Category: Business

Tech Mahindra and Singapore-Headquartered SCSK AP Partner to Accelerate the Expansion of Computer Aided Engineering Solutions Globally

Pune, Mar 09: Tech Mahindra announced a partnership with SCSK Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., the local subsidiary of SCSK in Asia, a major Japanese IT services and software company. The partnership aims to accelerate the global expansion of SCSK’s ADVENTURECluster—an advanced Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) solution and fast-track product development lifecycles for engineering organizations by streamlining the design and validation stages through cutting-edge CAE capabilities.

Tech Mahindra will be the specialized joint go-to-market partner for ADVENTURECluster across global markets, including India, North America, and Europe. This will involve driving ADVENTURECluster–related services across promotion, licensing and deployment. Leveraging its investments in state-of-the-art industrial and digital labs, Tech Mahindra will build a skill base across geographies with a Centre of Excellence and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into product development process of customer globally, automating design optimizations and enabling them to bring well-designed products to the market quickly.

RV Narasimham, President, Engineering Services, Tech Mahindra, said,

 “Design and validation are mission-critical for product-centric organizations as technology complexity increases, and product development cycles continue to compress. To address these challenges effectively, engineering teams need simulation platforms that deliver both accuracy and speed at scale. Tech Mahindra’s global reach and product engineering expertise enables AI adoption and digital twin integration throughout the product development process. When combined with the differentiated performance of ADVENTURECluster, this approach will significantly accelerate development timelines.”

Developed by Allied Engineering Corporation, a group company of SCSK, ADVENTURECluster is a niche structural analysis software designed for ultra-high-speed, large-scale simulations in parallel computing environments. Built on proprietary logic developed in collaboration with academia, the platform enables ultra‑high‑speed analysis of large‑scale models and delivers significantly faster results for engineering design organizations across industries. This helps improve product quality while substantially reducing development timelines.

Hideki Kouguchi, Head of Digital Engineering Business Division, Manufacturing Business Group, SCSK Corporation, and representative director, President and CEO, Allied Engineering Corporation, said,

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with Tech Mahindra, a leading global IT company, to accelerate the global expansion of ADVENTURECluster. With its extensive customer base in the manufacturing sector—particularly in the automotive industry—its strong engineering capabilities including CAE services, and its strategic alliance with our parent company, Sumitomo Corporation, Tech Mahindra is an ideal partner for bringing ADVENTURECluster to global markets. Through this collaboration, we are confident in our ability to deliver greater value to customers worldwide. We will continue to enhance ADVENTURECluster as a trusted CAE solution that supports manufacturing innovation around the world.”

The partnership further strengthens the long-standing relationship between the Sumitomo Corporation Group and the Mahindra Group, which includes multiple joint initiatives such as Sumitomo Corporation Tech Mahindra (SCTM), a joint venture delivering engineering services in Japan and working closely with SCSK in the Japanese market. Together, the two organizations aim to deliver comprehensive engineering solutions that enhance precision and speed across the product design and validation lifecycle.

Together, Tech Mahindra and SCSK aim to establish a strong global footprint for ADVENTURECluster and create a differentiated position in the niche CAE simulation market by delivering high-performance, scalable, and globally supported engineering solutions.

Mar, 9: CII Telangana organized its Annual Meeting & Conference on Building a Competitive & Sustainable Telangana on 07 March 2026 in Hyderabad.  

 Minister for Labour, Employment & Training, Government of Telangana,Dr G Vivek, handed over Vanmahotsav Awards to the winners.

The Conference Chief Guest Shri Jishnu Dev Varma,  Governor of Telangana in his inaugural address appreciated CII for playing a crucial role in encouraging responsible business practices. He said  and also many business leaders are nurturing their roots by developing they native villages. If we have to exist, we have nourish the nature. He said that in India we often say ‘Athidhi Devobhava’ but in North East we have included ‘Prakriti Devobhava’ also. Sustainability is a survival kit and it everyone’s responsibility to protect the earth for future generations. Along with Ease of doing business and speed of doing business the corporates should focus on Value of Doing Business also. India stands a defining moment now and Development should reach the masses and should go beyond metros.

Dr G Vivek Venkataswamy,  Minister for Labour, Employment & Training, Government of Telangana, in his address said that Government of Telangana has many regulations with regard to safety and urged companies to follow them. He said that Government of Telangana is always proactive in offering full support to corporates for the industry development. Economic growth and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand, and the State Government encourages businesses to align with ESG principles to build a greener and more sustainable future. State Government is actively working towards upskilling our workforce, and is playing a proactive role in this regard.

Mr Thomas John Muthoot, Chairman, CII Southern Region said that Telangana today stands at a significant point in its development journey. In just over a decade since its formation, the state has demonstrated remarkable progress across multiple sectors. What distinguishes Telangana’s growth story is not only the speed of development, but the strategic clarity with which it has been pursued. Strong governance, progressive policies, and a consistent focus on citizen-centric development have created a solid foundation for long-term progress. Telangana’s aspirations align closely with India’s broader vision for 2047. The state seeks to emerge as a major centre for innovation, green manufacturing, and sustainable urban development. The goal is to build cities that are liveable and resilient, villages that are prosperous and water secure, and an economy that is both competitive and inclusive.

Mr R Sivaprasad Reddy, Chairman, CII Telangana in his address said that throughout the year, CII Telangana strengthened its partnership with the Government of Telangana, engaging in constructive dialogue on industrial policy, labour reforms, infrastructure, skilling, and ease of doing business. Telangana’s growing global presence was reflected in our international engagements with delegations from Australia, Brazil, Japan, Singapore, and the UAE, enabling new partnerships in trade, skills, sustainable manufacturing, and digital capabilities. CII Telangana supported the CII–Government of Telangana Leadership Roundtable at the World Economic Forum in Davos, which showcased Telangana’s strengths in advanced manufacturing and innovation.

 Mr Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Cyient Ltd. said that Telangana is witnessing golden era of development has consistently outpaced national growth averages, demonstrating its ability to leverage technology, attract investment, and create high-value industries. He appreciated the Government of Telangana for its progressive policies and unwavering support in enabling industry-led growth. He said that Telangana is offering best business environment in the country and positive collaboration between the government and the private sector will further the growth momentum.

Mr M Goutham Reddy, Vice – Chairman, CII Telangana in his address said that CII Telangana remains fully committed to working closely with the Government and all stakeholders to support sustained industrial growth, innovation, and inclusive economic development in the state. We all need to work together in building a sustainable environment for our next generation.

Mumbai / Gurugram, March 8: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) successfully concluded the 4th edition of the Honda Manesar Half Marathon 2026 – Run for Road Safety. Flagged off from HMSI’s Global Resource Factory at IMT Manesar, this year’s event held special significance as it coincided with International Women’s Day, celebrating both the spirit of road safety and the empowerment of women.

 

The 4th edition witnessed an enthusiastic response, with more than 6000 participants, joining the cause. The marathon featured three distinct categories to accommodate runners of all skill levels: a 5 km fun run, a 10 km run, and the 21.1 km half marathon.

To honour the spirit and dedication of the participants, the winner of the Half Marathon under the male category was awarded the all-new Honda CB125 Hornet, and the female winner received the Honda Dio125 X edition. The 10 km run winners (male and female) were presented with HMSI discount coupons worth INR 20,000 each, along with a trophy. In addition, a mega lucky draw was organized for participants across all age categories including 18-35 years, 35-45 years, 45-55 years, and 55 years & above, offering a Honda Dio125 X edition for each category winner.

 

Ms. Sonika was awarded the winner in the female runner category of Honda Manesar Half Marathon (21.1km) with a timing of 1hour 22 minutes 36 seconds while Mr. Emmanuel Rotich and Mr Monu Kumar bagged the award in the male category with a timing of 1hour 04 minutes 48 seconds and 1hour 05 minutes 44 seconds respectively.

In the 10 km category, Mr. Adesh and Ms. Reena won the award in male and female categories with timings of 33 minutes 29 seconds and 47 minutes 28 seconds respectively.

By hosting the event on International Women’s Day, HMSI further emphasized the message that road safety is a shared responsibility. The occasion highlighted the importance of collective participation and helped spread this vital awareness across all sections of society. To recognize the spirit of the participants, winners across the categories were honored for their performance and dedication.

 

This dedicated initiative represents a collective movement aimed at fostering a safer India, aligning with the company’s global vision of realising zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles by 2050. As a commitment to Social Responsibility, the success of this edition underscores the commitment of HMSI toward promoting a culture of safety.

HMSI extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, the Government authorities of Haryana, the Industry Association of IMT Manesar, and various partner industries for their contribution to this successful initiative. The company remains committed to supporting key social causes, including healthcare, environmental sustainability, and education, while keeping road safety at the forefront of its mission.

 

After years of negotiations, international regulators may soon finalize rules governing deep sea mining. This mining would happen in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone between Hawaii and Mexico. The ocean floor in this region of the Pacific Ocean is blanketed with valuable minerals and metals including cobalt, nickel and manganese.

Proponents of this mining activity argue that access to these resources could reduce U.S. reliance on foreign mineral supply chains and spur a new wave of industrial development; however, environmental groups warn that mining the deep ocean could permanently damage fragile ecosystems that are still not well understood. 

For perspective on the economic stakes, geopolitical implications, and the likelihood of a global mining rulebook emerging, consider speaking with Danny Leipziger, Managing Director of The Growth Dialogue and professor of practice of international business at the George Washington University School of Business. Leipziger specializes in global economic policy, development finance, trade, and governance. 

 

 As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, it continues to be defined by intelligence, integration, and elevated expectations from homeowners. Professional smart home integrators are seeing clear shifts in how consumers want their homes to perform. Based on insight from across the industry, CEDIA – The Association for Smart Home Professionals™– has identified several key smart home trends.

Security Gets Smarter and More Predictive 

Artificial intelligence is shifting home security from reactive alerts to proactive, context-rich insights. New technology can distinguish familiar faces, vehicles, package deliveries and pets; flag unusual movement patterns; and dramatically reduce false alarms by analyzing behavior rather than simply detecting motion. Professional integrators report growing demand for solutions that unify cameras, sensors and analytics into a cohesive, easy-to-manage security ecosystem.

Design + Technology Collaboration Strengthens 

Home designers, builders and integrators are working together earlier in the renovation and construction processes than ever before. Nearly half of all whole-home remodels in the past two years incorporated smart home technology, and one-third of kitchen and bathroom remodels did the same. This collaborative approach ensures that connected devices are seamlessly integrated into a home’s design from the start, rather than treated as afterthoughts.

AI Assistants Advance the Coordinated Home 

Homeowners are increasingly looking for systems that think ahead rather than simply respond to commands. Emerging AI-driven home assistants are beginning to function as virtual household managers – coordinating HVAC, lighting, appliances, entertainment and security to optimize comfort and energy usage automatically. With this in mind, integrators are focusing more on networks, interoperability, and system design to ensure these intelligent environments run smoothly for homeowners.

Energy Management Accelerates 

Smart thermostats, energy monitors and intelligent plugs continue to be smart home stars—but economic pressures are pushing adoption even further. Consumers are prioritizing technology that meaningfully reduces waste and lowers utility bills, and integrators are responding by designing whole-home energy strategies that combine automation, monitoring and device coordination for maximum efficiency.

Circadian Lighting Gains Momentum

Smart lighting is evolving beyond simple on/off controls and rigid schedules to play an active role in supporting health and wellness. Circadian lighting systems automatically adjust color temperature and brightness throughout the day to align with the body’s natural rhythms, promoting alertness during the day and relaxation in the evening. As consumer awareness around the impact of light on sleep, mood and productivity continues to grow, integrators are seeing increased demand for professionally designed lighting solutions that balance aesthetics with wellness.

Across all of these categories, professional smart home integrators play a critical role in designing, installing and supporting the systems that power today’s smart homes. As homes grow more intelligent, the expertise required to keep them running smoothly grows as well.

“Upcoming smart tech innovations are looking to be the most advanced yet, but homeowners shouldn’t need to become experts to take advantage,” said Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO of CEDIA. “Professional integrators stay on top of the tech that homeowners want and ensure their smart home provides a simple, reliable and connected experience.”

The smart home continues to shift from a collection of gadgets to a unified, intuitive ecosystem. With expanding AI capabilities, enhanced interoperability, and deeper collaboration among designers and integrators, it is poised to deliver smarter, more efficient, and more personalized homes than ever before.

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Mumbai, Mar 07: Chairman of the Mahindra Group, Shri Anand Mahindra, has described the residents of Mawlynnong as a role model for the rest of India, drawing attention to the villages culture of shared responsibility and cleanliness.

In a recent tweet, Mahindra invoked the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” stating that it is “a proverb reminding us that responsibility is never individual; it belongs to the community.”  

“In Mawlynnong, Meghalaya, that idea shapes daily life,” he wrote. He observed that for the inhabitants of the Asias cleanest village, “cleanliness isnt a campaign. Its culture; rooted in shared duty, respect for nature, and collective dignity.” 

Mahindra further remarked, “If India is to transform its image it wont happen through slogans alone.” He added that transformation “will happen when we truly understand the proverbs meaning: change begins when everyone participates.”

“For being a role model for the rest of India, the residents of Mawlynnong are my #MondayMotivation,” he stated.

The remarks place the spotlight once again on Meghalayas Mawlynnong, widely recognised for its community-led approach to cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

Mar 07: The smartphone category in India has become increasingly competitive, with brands introducing devices that deliver features once reserved for higher-priced segments. From high refresh rate displays and capable 5G processors to large batteries and improved camera systems, budget smartphones are now offering users significantly better value.

Several leading smartphone brands have introduced new devices in this segment, providing strong options for consumers seeking reliable performance, long battery life, and modern connectivity.

Feature-Rich Devices Lead the Segment

realme C83 5G by realme

The realme C83 5G focuses on battery endurance and smooth display performance. It comes with a large 7000mAh battery, designed to support extended daily usage. The device also supports reverse wired charging.

For visuals, the smartphone features a 6.7-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and responsive interactions. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, ensuring stable performance for everyday apps and multitasking. The phone also includes a 5334mm² VC cooling system to manage heat during intensive use.

In the camera department, the device features a 13MP AI rear camera and a 5MP front camera, while the software experience is powered by realme UI based on Android.

Moto G35 5G by Motorola

The Moto G35 5G delivers a balanced smartphone experience with a focus on display quality and clean software. The phone features a 6.72-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, suitable for media consumption, gaming, and smooth navigation.

Powered by the Unisoc T760 processor, the device offers dependable performance for everyday tasks along with 5G connectivity. It runs a near-stock Android interface, providing a minimal and clutter-free experience.

The smartphone includes a 50MP primary camera paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens, along with a 16MP front camera for selfies and video calls. A 5000mAh battery supports full-day usage.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G by Samsung

The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G remains a strong option for users who prefer the Samsung ecosystem and long-term software support.

The smartphone features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colours and strong contrast. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor, delivering stable performance for daily tasks and social media applications.

The device includes a 50MP main camera, along with ultra-wide and macro sensors, while a 13MP front camera handles selfies. A 5000mAh battery with fast charging support powers the device.

OPPO K13x 5G by OPPO

The OPPO K13x 5G combines design, display smoothness, and everyday performance. The smartphone features a 6.72-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering fluid scrolling and responsive interactions.

It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, delivering stable performance and reliable 5G connectivity. The phone also includes RAM expansion technology, which helps improve multitasking.

For photography, the device features a 50MP AI rear camera and an 8MP front camera, while a 5000mAh battery ensures dependable all-day battery life.

Redmi 15C by Redmi

The Redmi 15C is designed for users seeking a dependable smartphone for everyday use. It features a 6.74-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and a large viewing area.

Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 processor, the device delivers stable performance for messaging, browsing, and light gaming. The smartphone also offers expandable storage, allowing users to store additional apps, photos, and media.

The camera system includes a 50MP AI main camera and an 8MP front camera, while a 5000mAh battery supports consistent daily usage.

Growing Competition in Budget Smartphones

With multiple manufacturers introducing feature-packed devices, the sub-₹15,000 segment has become one of the most dynamic categories in the Indian smartphone market. High refresh rate displays, larger batteries, and 5G connectivity are increasingly becoming standard features, offering consumers more value and performance than ever before.

As competition continues to intensify, users can expect further improvements in performance, camera capabilities, and software experiences across budget smartphones in the coming months.

Mar 07: Zara has unveiled its new store at Inorbit Mall, introducing the brand’s latest global retail concept and strengthening its presence in the city. Spanning more than 21,000 square feet on the ground floor, the store features two independent entrances under a single portico, offering direct access to the Women’s and Men’s sections.

 The new store brings together fashion, architecture and technology, offering an extensive range of collections for women, men and kids. Customers can also explore a dedicated Shoes & Bags area along with fragrance sections across departments, creating a comprehensive shopping experience.

Designed by Zara’s Architecture Studio, the store reflects the brand’s latest global flagship concept. The interior features expansive interconnected rooms framed by portal structures, creating open and fluid spaces that enhance movement between the three main sections. Open ceilings contribute to a sense of spaciousness, while curated furniture elements define different zones within the store.

The design highlights a refined material palette with neutral tones complemented by natural wood in varied finishes, black metal detailing, stainless steel and subtle ceramic accents. Lighting plays a significant role in shaping the ambience, combining deep black ceilings with focused light accents. In the Women’s section, younger collections feature stainless steel finishes and an industrial-inspired aesthetic, while the Shoes & Bags area includes stepped display platforms and central leather seating to enhance comfort and product display.

The store also integrates advanced technological features to deliver a seamless omnichannel shopping experience by connecting physical retail with the brand’s online platform through zara.com and the Zara mobile app. Customers can browse inventory in real time, locate products quickly and collect online orders within two hours.

Key services available in the store include dedicated pickup points for online orders, assisted checkout areas with accessible payment stations, and assisted return points designed to simplify and speed up returns.

The store also promotes sustainability through initiatives such as a cardboard recycling point for online packaging and a used clothing collection container that enables garments to be reused through charity partnerships. Customers can also access Zara’s repair booking service and the brand’s online Pre-Owned platform for garment resale.

In line with Zara’s sustainability commitments, the store incorporates advanced energy efficiency solutions including optimized heating and cooling systems and reduced lighting intensity using LED fixtures to minimize energy consumption while maintaining a premium in-store environment. The store is also connected to the company’s internal Inergy platform, which monitors air conditioning and electricity consumption to improve efficiency and maintenance.

Zara is part of the Inditex Group, one of the world’s leading fashion retailers. The group also includes brands such as Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius, Oysho, Zara Home and Lefties. Operating in 98 markets and over 200 online markets globally, the group continues to focus on innovation, customer experience and sustainability, with a goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2040.

Currently, Inditex operates 20 Zara stores in India, further expanding its footprint in the country’s fast-growing fashion retail market.

The visit builds on an MoU signed between Venezuelan petroleum authorities and the African Energy Chamber in February 2026, representing the next step in this collaborative initiative

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Mar 7 — Following the historic visit by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) to Venezuela in February 2026, Venezuela responded by sending its Deputy Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Productive Efficiency on Hydrocarbons Arturo Gil to South Africa to advance energy ties.

A high-level meeting was held in Cape Town, featuring Deputy Minister Gil and Carlos Feo Acevedo, the Venezuelan Ambassador to South Africa, alongside an AEC team led by Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk and a team from Energy Capital & Power, led by CEO James Chester. Discussions centered on strengthening investment flows, leveraging Venezuela’s expertise to support Africa’s energy resilience and identifying avenues for collaboration across the energy value chain.

The meeting follows a high-level visit by the AEC to Caracas in late February, which included meetings with Delcy Rodríguez, Interim President of Venezuela as well as the state-owned oil corporation Petróleos de Venezuela SA and the ministries of Hydrocarbon Geopolitics and Gas. The outcome of these meetings was a signed MoU, aimed at strengthening investment and collaboration across the oil, gas and broader energy sectors. The Cape Town discussion represents the next step in this collaboration, underscoring Venezuela’s commitment to establishing resilient ties with African nations.

Workforce Development and Technical Cooperation

A key outcome of the meeting was a commitment to strengthening workforce development across Africa’s energy sector. Under the initiative, the AEC will engage between 10 and 15 African stakeholders to participate in specialized technical training programs at Venezuela’s University of Hydrocarbons, supporting skills development and knowledge transfer between the two regions.

The Venezuelan delegation emphasized the importance of building long-term technical partnerships, noting that structured training programs would allow African professionals to gain hands-on expertise while fostering deeper institutional cooperation between Africa and Venezuela.

“We believe it would be valuable to organize a working visit to South Africa and bring a Venezuelan delegation to explore cooperation and investment opportunities,” stated Deputy Minister Gil.

Leveraging Venezuelan Oil and Gas Expertise

The meeting also examined how Africa can benefit from Venezuela’s more than 100 years of oil and gas production experience. Ayuk highlighted geological similarities between Venezuela and key African producing countries such as Namibia and Angola, suggesting that knowledge exchange on basin geology and data interpretation could accelerate exploration and production across both regions.

“We need to strengthen collaboration between Africa and Venezuela. I hope to see more African stakeholders leveraging your cooperation, particularly in the area of data sharing and trade,” stated Ayuk.

He also underscored Venezuela’s unique role as a member of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization, emphasizing the importance of increased participation in continental initiatives such as the African Energy Bank to address both the continent and the south American nation’s investment challenges.

Unlocking Investment and Market Opportunities

Investment opportunities within Venezuela’s hydrocarbon sector was also a central focus of the meeting. The Venezuelan delegation highlighted the country’s extensive geological database, built over more than a century of exploration and production activity, which provides investors with detailed insights into untapped resources and development opportunities.

With 1,000 wells planned for development and over 20,000 wells already drilled – including many yet to be optimized – the country presents substantial and highly lucrative investment opportunities across its upstream sector.

Gas Development and Energy Access

Venezuela’s vast natural gas resources were also discussed as a potential solution to Africa’s growing energy access challenges. With approximately 600 million people in Africa lacking access to electricity and nearly one billion living without access to clean cooking solutions, Ayuk highlighted the potential role of Venezuela’s flared gas in strengthening the continent’s energy supply while also supporting economic growth for the South American nation.

“Venezuela has significant onshore gas resources that can be further developed, but unlocking this potential will require greater investment to support both national development and the needs of our people,” stated Deputy Minister Gil. “LPG is not only an energy resource but also a social solution with strong economic and societal value. There is substantial potential for expansion in both our onshore and offshore gas sectors.”

Role of African Independents in Upstream Expansion

During the meeting, the parties emphasized the growing influence of African independent oil companies, noting their success in expanding production across the continent after decades of experience working alongside international majors. Drawing parallels with markets such as Nigeria, he suggested that independent operators could also play a role in supporting Venezuela’s efforts to increase oil output through brownfield redevelopment and mature asset optimization.

“Outside the U.S., Africa – especially Nigeria – has one of the largest populations of independent oil producers, with many operators producing from as little as 1,000 barrels per day,” stated Ayuk.

As both regions seek to expand production and address energy access challenges, deeper collaboration between African and Venezuelan stakeholders could unlock new opportunities across the global energy landscape.

Electronic health records (EHRs). Insurance claims. Patient registries. Wearable devices. Never before has health data been so abundant.

Yet the United States continues to struggle with siloed systems that make it difficult to streamline and use this information to advance science and medicine – particularly in areas such as public health, safety monitoring, and precision medicine.

Now, a multidisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, technologists, and policy experts argues that the country should rethink how this data is managed. In a new paper published in Science, the group calls for real-world health data (RWD) to be governed as a public utility – an essential piece of public infrastructure, akin to electricity, water, and the internet.

To address data silos, patient privacy, and other related challenges, the researchers looked to lessons from the creation of public utilities throughout history – such as the electrification movement, federal drinking water standards, and the advent of the internet.

They propose that a public utility model could better govern health data and ensure it flows where it matters most: from patients to new and innovative solutions and back again to benefit the public.

The public utility approach would ensure that there is governmental regulatory oversight, ensuring fair access, transparency, and accountability for health data. 

Governance would be distributed to utility boards, while the government would establish and enforce regulations and standards, enabling individual research entities and stakeholders the freedom to address their own research questions and challenges. Like other public utility boards, this information could be accessed by patients and the community, ultimately empowering them with a formal role in oversight and data sharing.

The researchers also argue that current U.S. privacy laws, including HIPAA, are insufficient for today’s digital health ecosystem. They call for extending HIPAA-like protections to include consumer health data (including wearables, genomics, and mobile apps), clarifying public health and research use cases, and more.

Researchers also recognized that transforming health data governance will require both legal reform and cultural change. They underscore that healthcare organizations and policy-makers must recognize health data as shared infrastructure with collective value, not just a secondary byproduct of clinical care.