Category: News

  • Ultrahuman and Les Mills Launch Les Mills PowerPlug: First Smart Ring Integration To Deliver Expert-Led Workouts Guided by Your Recovery and Cycle

    Partnership brings studio-quality video workouts with real trainers into the Ultrahuman app
     
    [London, 22 April 2026] — Ultrahuman, the health technology company behind the Ultrahuman Ring, today announced a global partnership with Les Mills, the global leader in group training.
     
    The collaboration brings Les Mills’ studio-quality workouts directly into the Ultrahuman app, using continuous biomarker data from the Ultrahuman Ring to recommend the right workout based on each user’s individual recovery, sleep, and even cycle phase. This includes the new Ultrahuman Ring PRO, which offers category-leading 15-day battery life and a redesigned heart-rate sensing system for even greater accuracy.
     

    Ultrahuman and Les Mills Launch Les Mills PowerPlug: First Smart Ring Integration To Deliver Expert-Led Workouts Guided by Your Recovery and Cycle

    Today, most wearable users face a disconnect – their wearable tells them they’re under-recovered, but their training plan carries on regardless. The result is overtraining when fatigued, undertraining when ready, and a persistent gap between wearable insights and real-world training decisions. The Les Mills PowerPlug closes that gap.

     
    What’s more, according to the Les Mills 2026 Global Fitness Report, 90% of people prefer workout sessions led by real instructors rather than AI-generated plans. This integration is designed around exactly that – human-led coaching, powered by real-time biometric insight.
     
    Biomarker-Driven Recommendations
     
    When Ultrahuman Ring users first download the Les Mills PowerPlug, they choose a personal fitness goal (Strength, Cardio, Flexibility, or General Fitness), preferred training days per week, and session length. Every recommendation adapts automatically based on recovery, sleep, and cycle phase data from the ring.
     
    The integration gives Ultrahuman Ring users access to Les Mills’ diverse catalogue of video workouts — including HIIT, BODYPUMP™, strength, yoga, stretching, and recovery sessions — led by expert Instructors and available on demand.
     
    Each day, the home screen shows two to three recommended Les Mills workouts matched to the user’s current status, a Quick Workout shortcut, and access to the Les Mills catalogue to browse by programme, duration, or goal.
     
    The recommendation engine maps Ultrahuman’s Dynamic Recovery scores directly to workout intensity and type. Unlike static overnight recovery scores, Ultrahuman’s readings adjust dynamically to movement, non-sleep deep rest (including breathwork), and naps.
     
    A well-recovered user with elevated heart rate variability and low resting heart rate might see BODYPUMP™ or BODYCOMBAT™ at the top of their feed. On the other hand, a user with accumulated sleep debt, elevated body temperature, increased resting heart rate, or low heart rate variability would be guided toward yoga, BODYBALANCE™, or a gentle mobility session instead.
     
    For women who track their cycle, Les Mills PowerPlug adjusts recommendations based on menstrual phase. High-energy phases (follicular, ovulatory) unlock intense workouts like GRIT and BODYCOMBAT™, while luteal and menstrual phases automatically shift toward recovery-friendly content like BodyBalance and Yoga – with hard safety filters that remove high-impact or pelvic-floor-challenging workouts during menstruation.
     
    The Ring Closes the Loop
     
    What differentiates the Les Mills PowerPlug from watching Les Mills content on any other platform is what happens after the session ends. The ring stays on during every workout, and on completion, it shows:
    • Workout stats: Calories, duration, and heart rate zones are captured automatically — no manual entry required.
    • Recovery prediction: Updated post-workout forecasts show estimated readiness for the following day.
    • Movement and muscle tracking: The movement score and muscle group radar chart reflect the completed session.
    • Real-time goal tracking: Progress against daily goals updates immediately.
     
    The result is a continuous feedback loop: workout choice informs recovery data, which shapes the next recommendation — and becomes more accurate over time.
     
    “We built Ultrahuman to help people understand their bodies. With Les Mills, we’re closing the loop — your ring doesn’t just tell you how recovered you are, it tells you what to do about it. The right workout, at the right intensity, every day. That’s what training smarter actually looks like,” said Mohit Kumar, CEO, Ultrahuman.
     
    Marina Nola, Chief Digital Distribution Officer at Les Mills, said: “Partnering with Ultrahuman enables us to bring a new level of personalization to fitness. By combining the real‑time insights of the UltraHuman smart ring with the proven motivation of Les Mills workouts, we can guide users towards the right workout for how they feel in the moment and help them stay engaged. Together, we are helping people to build sustainable habits, achieve their goals, and ultimately fall in love with fitness as part of our mission to create a fitter planet.”
     
    Availability and Pricing
     
    The Les Mills PowerPlug is available to Ultrahuman Ring AIR and PRO users from 22nd April, rolling out via the Ultrahuman app. It’s available globally, costing $11.99/month or $99.99/year.
  • PM Modi Reaffirms Zero Tolerance on Terror, Cites Operation Sindoor on Pahalgam Attack Anniversary

    Apr 22 (BNP): On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s firm stand against terrorism, stating that the country will never bow to any form of terror and that such designs will always fail.

    Remembering the victims of the attack carried out by Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Prime Minister said India remains fully committed to safeguarding national security and protecting its citizens from all threats.

    Referring to India’s counter-terror response efforts, the Prime Minister also cited “Operation Sindoor” as part of the country’s continued resolve to act decisively against terrorism and its support networks.

    He emphasized that India’s approach towards terrorism is uncompromising and rooted in a strong commitment to peace, security, and justice for victims.

    The statement comes as the nation marks the anniversary of the attack, reaffirming unity and resilience in the fight against terrorism.

  • Operation Sindoor Still On, Says Army; Strong Message to Terror Groups !

    New Delhi,Apr22(BNP): Reaffirming its unwavering resolve against terrorism, the Indian Army on Tuesday issued a strong message on the eve of the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that any act of terror or violation of national boundaries will be met with a decisive response.

    On April 22 last year, terrorists killed 26 innocent people—mostly tourists—in Pahalgam, in an attack that shook the nation and drew widespread condemnation from governments and leaders across the world.

    In response, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor during the intervening night of May 6 and 7. The operation involved well-coordinated and precise strikes targeting nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists, including trainers, handlers, and associates linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. The strikes were carried out with a focus on maximizing damage to terrorist infrastructure while minimizing civilian casualties.

    In a social media post, the Army issued a stern warning to perpetrators of terrorism, stating that “when boundaries of humanity are crossed, the response is decisive. Justice is served. India stands united.” The post also featured a digital poster referencing Operation Sindoor with the message: “Some boundaries should never be crossed. India does not forget.”

    Senior military officials have reiterated over the past year that Operation Sindoor remains ongoing, emphasizing the need for sustained vigilance and a high level of military preparedness round the clock.

    As a tribute to the victims, a memorial has been erected in the meadows of Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam. Built of black marble along the banks of the Lidder River, the memorial bears the names of the 26 victims, including 25 tourists and a local resident, Adil Shah, honoring their memory and sacrifice.

  • PLI Food Processing Scheme Creates 3.39 Lakh Jobs, Exceeds Target

    New Delhi, Apr 22 (BNP): The Government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Food Processing Industry has achieved a significant milestone by generating approximately 3.39 lakh direct and indirect jobs as of February 2026, surpassing its target of 2.5 lakh jobs set for 2026–27.

    Since its inception, the scheme has facilitated the disbursement of over ₹2,162 crore in incentives to beneficiaries, supporting growth, capacity expansion, and technological advancement in the sector.

    PLI scheme for food processing creates 3.39 lakh jobs, disburses ₹2,162 crore in Incentiveshttps://t.co/vzfq4OTdLc

    via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/tmDzj8fq78

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2026

    The initiative has played a key role in strengthening India’s food processing ecosystem by encouraging investment, enhancing value addition, and improving supply chain efficiency. It has also contributed to increased income opportunities for farmers and supported the growth of food-based industries across the country.

    The continued success of the PLI scheme reflects the government’s commitment to boosting manufacturing, generating employment, and promoting sustainable growth in the food processing sector.

  • Tesla Expands India Journey with New Model YL and Stronger Service Network

    Mumbai, Apr 22 (BNP): Tesla has announced the launch of its second offering in India, the Model YL, a three-row, six-seater electric SUV .

    The launch marks a significant step in Tesla’s India expansion, aimed at meeting the growing demand for premium electric vehicles with greater space and versatility.

    In addition to expanding its product portfolio, Tesla will strengthen its service and body shop network across cities including Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. The company is also enhancing its charging infrastructure along major highways to support seamless intercity travel.

    Commenting on the development, Sharad Agarwal, General Manager, Tesla India, stated that the company is committed to improving accessibility and delivering a superior ownership experience through expanded infrastructure and customer support.

    Tesla’s continued investments underscore its long-term commitment to the Indian market and its role in advancing the transition to sustainable mobility.

  • Chardham 2026: Helicopter Operator Warns of Rising Booking Scams

    Apr 22  (BNP): As the Chardham Yatra 2026 season gets underway, a Dehradun-based helicopter operator has alerted pilgrims about a rise in fraudulent booking activities targeting devotees planning helicopter travel to Himalayan shrines.

    Chardham 2026: Helicopter Operator Warns of Rising Booking Scams

    The operator has reported an increase in fake websites, impersonated travel agents, and misleading social media promotions offering guaranteed or discounted helicopter bookings for routes including Kedarnath. These scams, officials say, are particularly active during the early phase of the pilgrimage season when demand is high.

    In response, the operator has released a free safety advisory guide aimed at helping pilgrims identify authentic booking channels, avoid advance-payment frauds, and verify authorised service providers before making reservations.

    The advisory emphasises that helicopter services for the Chardham circuit are strictly regulated and bookings should only be made through verified and official platforms. Pilgrims have been urged to exercise caution and avoid unverified online offers.

    Tourism stakeholders note that such fraudulent activities tend to spike during peak pilgrimage periods due to heavy demand and limited service slots. Authorities are expected to step up awareness efforts to protect devotees and ensure safe travel arrangements.

    With increasing pilgrim turnout expected in 2026, officials have also highlighted the need for stronger digital vigilance and public education to curb scam networks targeting religious tourism.

  • India Faces Food Inflation Risks Ahead of Kharif Season

    Apr 22 (BNP): India could witness emerging food inflation risks ahead of the Kharif agricultural season, even with significant government support measures in place, including subsidies valued at approximately USD 18.6 billion, according to a senior economist from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

    The outlook is influenced by disruptions in global supply chains, particularly those linked to geopolitical tensions affecting critical maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. These disruptions have contributed to volatility in the movement of essential commodities and agricultural inputs.

    While domestic policy interventions and subsidy mechanisms continue to provide stability to the agriculture sector, external supply-side pressures remain a key concern for price control and market equilibrium.

    The FAO economist noted that maintaining food security will require a combination of strong domestic production, efficient supply chain management, and close monitoring of global trade dynamics.

    Authorities are expected to remain vigilant to ensure price stability and protect consumer interests during the upcoming agricultural cycle.

  • Odisha Steps Up Safety Measures for Census 2027 Enumerators Amid Field-Work Risks

    Apr 22 (BNP): The Odisha Government’s Revenue and Disaster Management Department has issued a fresh advisory to district collectors and municipal commissioners, stressing enhanced safety protocols for enumerators engaged in the first phase of Census 2027—the houselisting and housing census exercise.

    The field operation, which began on April 16, 2026, and will continue till May 15, 2026, involves door-to-door surveys across the state to collect data on housing conditions, household amenities, and assets owned by families.

    The advisory comes after reports of multiple incidents during fieldwork in different districts, including a suspected health-related death of an enumerator in Subarnapur, a missing enumerator case in Mayurbhanj, heat-related illness and minor accidents in Balasore, and a road accident in Rourkela.

    In view of these concerns, the department has directed local administrations to strengthen on-ground monitoring, ensure real-time tracking of field staff, and take preventive steps to reduce exposure to heat and other operational risks. District authorities have also been asked to identify vulnerable areas and ensure quick medical response wherever required.

    Officials have further been instructed to sensitise enumerators on safety guidelines, particularly given the physically demanding nature of door-to-door data collection and prevailing weather conditions.

    The advisory underscores the state’s focus on balancing the efficiency of the nationwide census exercise with the safety and well-being of frontline field workers.

  • Centre Approves New Rail Line to Boost Connectivity in Odisha’s Mining Belt

    Apr 22 (BNP): The Central Government has approved a new railway project to strengthen connectivity in Odisha’s mineral-rich Rayagada district. The Cabinet has sanctioned the Gunupur–Therubali new rail line, a 73.62 km route aimed at improving transportation infrastructure in one of the state’s key mining regions.

    The project, estimated at a cost of around ₹1,362 crore, is expected to enhance regional mobility and provide more efficient and reliable rail services. It will connect important industrial and mining zones, improving the movement of both passengers and freight.

    Officials noted that the new rail corridor will play a significant role in supporting economic activity in southern Odisha by improving access to remote areas and strengthening logistics efficiency for the Indian Railways network.

    The development is also expected to contribute to long-term regional growth by enabling smoother transportation of resources, boosting local connectivity, and integrating the region more effectively with broader economic corridors.

  • FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem hails collaborative effort as Formula One agrees 2026 regulatory refinements

    Dubai, UAE, 22nd April 2026:  FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem has paid tribute to all parties across the FIA Formula One World Championship for coming together to agree a package of targeted regulatory changes for the 2026 season.

    A number of refinements to the current regulations were agreed during an online meeting between the FIA, Team Principals, CEOs of Power Unit Manufacturers and FOM on Monday.

    The changes covered qualifying energy management, race safety and power controls, race start-line safety systems, and wet weather visibility and grip improvements.

    FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem hails collaborative effort as  Formula One agrees 2026 regulatory refinements

    The final proposals will now be put before a FIA WMSC e-vote with a view to implementation before the Miami Grand Prix on May 3, except for the race starts proposals which will be tested and analysed during that weekend. 

    H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, said: “I would like to praise everyone across the Formula One ecosystem – the FIA staff, teams, drivers and the Power Unit Manufacturers – for the constructive and collaborative work carried out in a very short space of time.

    “While we have faced an unexpected gap in the calendar due to circumstances beyond the sport, all parties have remained fully committed to acting in the best interests of Formula One.

    “More than ever, the drivers have been at the heart of these discussions, and I would like to thank them for their valuable input throughout this process.

    Speaking on the sidelines of the FIA Region I Spring Meeting in Budva, Montenegro today, the FIA President added: “Safety and sporting fairness remain the FIA’s highest priorities. These changes have been introduced to address the issues identified in the opening events and to ensure the continued integrity and quality of the competition.

    “We now look forward to the rest of what promises to be an exciting 2026 season.”

    Monday’s discussions around potential adjustments were based on data gathered from the first three events of the 2026 season. 

    The agreed changes include an increase from 8 to 12 in the number of events where alternative lower energy limits may apply, allowing greater adaptation to circuit characteristics. 

    Other measures are designed to reduce excessive closing speeds while maintaining overtaking opportunities and overall performance characteristics. 

    Meanwhile, the rear light systems have been simplified, with clearer and more consistent visual cues to improve visibility and reaction time for following drivers in poor conditions. 

    The FIA Region I Spring Meeting in Budva reaches its conclusion tomorrow after three days of discussions by representatives from 102 FIA Member Clubs in the Middle East, Europe and Africa to advance safe and sustainable mobility for motor sport fans and road users.