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  • Singapore’s Award-Winning Preschool Red SchoolHouse Enters India; Targets 150+ Schools Expansion

    Bengaluru, May 11: Singapore-origin preschool brand Red SchoolHouse (RSH) has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its first centre in Bengaluru. The brand has partnered with Franchise India as its master franchise partner to drive its expansion across the country. As part of its India growth strategy, Red SchoolHouse is targeting the launch of 150+ schools across India over the next 2–5 years through a franchise-led expansion model.

    Founded in 2004, Red SchoolHouse is a multi-award-winning preschool brand from Singapore, known for its globally inspired early childhood education approach and proprietary SPICE™ curriculum focused on Social, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, and Emotional development.

    Redschool house 1

    India marks a key strategic market for the brand as demand continues to grow for premium and internationally aligned preschool education among urban families.

    “India is an extremely important market for us, given the strong demand for quality early childhood education and globally aligned learning models. Through our partnership with Franchise India, we look forward to building a strong and scalable presence across the country over the coming years,” said Rachel Goh, CEO & Founder, Red SchoolHouse.

    The Bengaluru launch marks the beginning of the brand’s larger India expansion plans, with the company actively exploring partnerships and franchise opportunities across major metro and high-growth cities.

    “India’s preschool and early learning segment continues to see significant growth, particularly among parents seeking international education standards and holistic learning environments. Red SchoolHouse brings a globally established education model with strong long-term expansion potential for the Indian market,” said Gaurav Marya, Chairperson, Franchise India.

    With its India entry, Red SchoolHouse aims to build a premium preschool network focused on globally inspired learning and scalable education-led growth across the country.

  • CaratLane Doubles Production Capacity with New Chennai Manufacturing Facility

    CaratLane Doubles Production Capacity with New Chennai Manufacturing Facility

    Chennai, India May 11: CaratLane, a Tata Group company and India’s leading omnichannel fine jewellery brand, today announced the launch of its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chennai, marking a significant milestone in its growth and operational expansion journey. Located in the SIDCO industrial area at No: 56, Irandankattalai, Thirumudivakkam, Tamil Nadu, the expansive 32,000 sq. ft. facility is spread across four dedicated floors and is designed to significantly enhance the brand’s manufacturing capabilities.

    The new unit is expected to double CaratLane’s overall production capacity, enabling the brand to meet growing consumer demand across India while maintaining its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. The facility will also play a key role in generating approximately 100 new specialised jobs, contributing to local economic development.

    Speaking on the collaboration, Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director of CaratLane, said: “This new manufacturing facility in Chennai represents a strategic investment in strengthening our supply chain and scaling operations to meet the evolving needs of our customers. By combining advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship, we at CaratLane are well-positioned to deliver high-quality jewellery with greater speed and efficiency, while also contributing to local employment and sustainable practices.”

    Equipped to manufacture the full spectrum of jewellery—from everyday wear to high-value solitaires — the facility integrates cutting-edge technologies to drive efficiency and precision. These include:

    • High-precision 3D printers for intricate prototyping
    • Advanced faceting machines for superior brilliance and finish
    • High-capacity laser cutting systems for enhanced productivity
    • Specialised equipment designed to create lightweight yet durable castings

    The adoption of these advanced technologies is expected to significantly reduce production lead times, enabling faster turnaround from design conceptualization to final delivery for customers.

    In line with CaratLane’s sustainability commitments, the facility incorporates eco-conscious practices, including the installation of solar panels generating 40 kW of clean energy. Additionally, it features an advanced water recycling system that ensures efficient reuse of water, minimizing the unit’s environmental footprint.

    The launch of this facility reinforces CaratLane’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and responsible growth, as it continues to expand its footprint across India.

  • Hong Kong’s Sculptural, Nature Inspired Dining Concept – PARKSIDE@NINA CWB Opens Today

     

     

    Hong Kong’s Sculptural, Nature Inspired Dining Concept - PARKSIDE@NINA CWB Opens Today

     

    11 May 2026, Hong Kong: PARKSIDE@NINA CWB opens today as the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s natureinspired dining scene. Designed by award-winning Atelier E – the creative studio behind PARKSIDE@NINA, featured among the 50 Most Beautiful Cafés in the World – the new retreat blends sculptural interiors and botanical elegance with a menu of international favourites and Asian inspirations. A partnership with Nina Hospitality, the restaurant is nestled within Nina Hotel Causeway Bay beside the lush greenery of Victoria Park. PARKSIDE@NINA CWB introduces a fresh expression of PARKSIDE@NINA’s philosophy while expanding its vision of dining rooted in nature across the city.

     Spanning more than 3,000 square feet and accommodating over 100 guests, the interiors are defined by dramatic oversized calla‑lily‑inspired lighting installations and inverted flower forms that hover overhead, creating a surreal, dreamlike canopy. A curtain wall floods the space with natural sunlight, while curvilinear seating and planter‑integrated banquettes soften the geometry and encourage intimacy. The interiors reflect the creative pedigree established at PARKSIDE@NINA, while unveiling a bold new statement in Causeway Bay.

     PARKSIDE@NINA CWB’s menu highlights a vibrant and indulgent range of dishes that balance beloved Asian classics with refined Western favourites. Appetisers include the delicate Smoked Salmon in Mini Cone (HK$138), crispy golden Korean Fried Chicken (HK$98), robust Garlic Flat Bread (HK$138) and silky Beef Carpaccio (HK$158).

     Regional signatures such as the fragrant Hainanese Chicken Rice (HK$228) and aromatic Nasi Goreng (HK$168) are joined by Hong Kong’s beloved specialty – comforting Wonton Noodle Soup (HK$158). These are presented alongside gourmet mains including the succulent PARKSIDE Wagyu Beef Burger (HK$168), tender Grilled Beef Tenderloin (HK$378), juicy Roasted Australian Lamb Rack (HK$348), and buttery King Prawn with Miso Butter (HK$288).

     For those dining in groups, the menu features highlighted dishes perfect for sharing, such as Baby Suckling Pig (HK$288) served with cherry tomato, roasted potato and honey mustard, and Black Pepper Braised Beef Short Ribs (HK$238) accompanied by sweet potato fries.

    Guests can also savour artisan wood‑fired sourdough pizzas and hand‑crafted pasta dishes, including the umami‑rich Japanese Smoked Tuna with Free Range Egg Pizza (HK$178), aromatic Tiger Prawn Casarecce (HK$188), earthy Morel Mushroom Risotto (HK$178), and crispy Soft Shell Crab Linguine Aglio e Olio (HK$198).

    Desserts complete the experience with a selection that is both playful and luscious. Highlights include the airy, delicate Lychee & Hibiscus Pavlova (HK$98), sinful Caramelized Banana (HK$98), and the decadent Wood Fossil Chocolate Cake (HK$88), a signature creation that pays homage to the restaurant’s design inspiration.

    From 18 May 2026, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB will open daily from 7 a.m. with breakfast offerings that span wholesome à la carte favourites – such as Avocado Toast, freshly made pancakes, and Greek yogurt bowls – alongside global breakfast set menus from HK$138, featuring comforting Chinese dim sum and wonton noodle soup, hearty American classics, and Japanese breakfast staples.

    PARKSIDE@NINA CWB also serves delightful set lunch options: three courses starting from HK$178 per person and four courses from HK$198 per person. These lunch menus feature a variety of starters like Tuna Niçoise Salad, Greek Salad or Caesar Salad with Smoked Salmon, followed by mains such as Cajun Rubbed Roasted Half Chicken, Pan-Fried Sea Bass, or Grilled Prime Beef Sirloin (add HK$65). In the evening, a four-course set dinner is available from HK$428 per person, featuring Salmon Tartare, Cream of Mushroom Soup and main course options such as Grilled Beef Prime Rib Eye (add HK$65) or Saikyo Miso Halibut Fillet. Both lunch and dinner sets include a choice of coffee or tea.

    An intimate private dining room for up to 10 people is designed with warm wood finishes and subtle botanical accents that mirror the restaurant’s sculptural interiors. This refined, secluded enclave provides a stylish setting for family gatherings, business dinners, or special occasions.

    Anchored by a sleek, sculptural bar framed with warm lighting and botanical accents, the space transforms into a contemporary social hub each evening. Stocked with an extensive international wine selection of more than 20 labels, alongside creative cocktails and refreshing mocktails, the bar adds a convivial dimension to the restaurant.

    Signature cocktails blend international spirits with Asian inspirations, from the distinctive Thyme Zone (HK$98), combining smooth whisky and a peach afterglow, and Hong Kong Sling (HK$98) to the aromatic Yuzu Espresso Martini (HK$98) and indulgent Whisky Sour Crème Brûlée (HK$118). Guests seeking lighter options can enjoy inventive mocktails such as Ruby Groove (HK$78) with yuzu and cranberry, or the whimsical Magic Potion (HK$78) with butterfly pea tea and tropical fruit.

    A dedicated highball series highlights Baijiu, Soju and Japanese whisky, while a large wine list spans Old and New World labels, encompassing red, white, rosé and sparkling selections. Draught beers, aperitifs, artisan teas and specialty coffees are also offered.

    From sunrise breakfasts to late‑night cocktails, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB moves with the rhythm of the city. Each part of the day carries its own energy – mornings begin with fresh starts, afternoons invite power luncheons, relaxed teas and catch‑ups, evenings bring the buzz of happy hour and dinner, and vibrant nights unfold over socialising at the bar.

    With its striking interiors, natural sunlight streaming through floor‑to‑ceiling glass, and distinctive wood fossils integrated into the design, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB is poised to become one of the city’s most distinctive lifestyle hotspots. It embodies the spirit of contemporary urban dining, presenting a curated menu of Asian classics and Western favourites in a welcoming setting, complemented by inventive cocktails and an extensive wine list.

    PARKSIDE@NINA CWB is located on the first floor of Nina Hotel Causeway Bay at 18 King’s Road, Tin Hau, Hong Kong. It is currently open from 12 noon to 11 p.m. daily, and will extend its operating hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m beginning on 18 May 2026, offering an all-day dining experience.

  • Himanta Biswa Sarma Elected NDA Leader, Set to Take Oath as Assam Chief Minister on May 12

    Guwahati, May 11 (BNP): Senior BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma was unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP Legislature Party and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Assam on Sunday, paving the way for him to continue as the Chief Minister for a second consecutive term.

    Following his election, Sarma met Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and formally staked claim to form the new government in the state.

    The swearing-in ceremony of the new Council of Ministers is scheduled to be held on May 12 in Guwahati and is expected to witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior BJP leaders, NDA allies, and several dignitaries.

    Sarma’s re-election as NDA leader comes after the alliance secured a strong mandate in the 126-member Assam Assembly. Party leaders and supporters celebrated the announcement, expressing confidence in the continuation of the government’s development agenda in the state.

    The BJP leader is expected to continue focusing on infrastructure growth, welfare initiatives, law and order, and economic development during his second term as Chief Minister.

  • Maveric Systems announces strategic brand positioning focused on Engineering Trust in AI-First Banking

    Chennai, May 11: Maveric Systems, a banking-exclusive technology specialist, announced its new market positioning — Engineering Trust in AI-First Banking — as financial institutions worldwide accelerate the transition from digital-first to AI-first enterprise models.

    Maveric Systems announces strategic brand positioning focused on Engineering Trust in AI-First Banking

    For CIOs, the shift from digital-first to AI is a business revisioning exercise. It requires reimagining people, processes, and technology through AI, ML and automation. This needs to happen across every critical imperative, from customer experiences and modernised, real-time systems, to operational cost reduction and regulatory compliance, as well as privacy.

    ” As AI moves into the core of the enterprise, the key challenge is how to scale AI reliably, securely, and responsibly across highly regulated, legacy-complex environments”, said Ranga Reddy, CEO & Whole Time Director, Maveric Systems. “What banks need is not another technology vendor; they need a partner who can engineer trust into every layer of AI and ML-led transformation. That is the promise behind Maveric’s new positioning.”

    Maveric’s Engineering Trust positioning is anchored in four core strengths:       

    • ·AI at the Core, Not the Edges: Maveric embeds AI into core systems, operations, and decision layers, not at the periphery through isolated pilots. This shifts banks from fragmented experimentation to enterprise-wide AI-first models with real governance, observability, and accountability.
    • ·Principles that engineer trust: Maveric applies a standards-led engineering approach, embedding AI principles including fairness, explainability, reliability, privacy and global banking standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring AI is compliant by design.
    • ·Pragmatic, Outcome-Driven Execution:  Every engagement is anchored to quantifiable business impact – faster customer onboarding, real-time decisioning, reduced cost-to-serve, improved fraud detection, and accelerated modernization.
    • ·Deep Banking DNA:  With over 25 years of exclusive focus on banking and financial services, Maveric builds AI within the fabric of banking, not on top of it. This domain depth ensures every AI model, use case, and solution is aligned to real-world banking processes, regulatory constraints, and customer realities across geographies.

    To support CIOs AI-first journey, Maveric brings its purpose-built platforms and solutions ecosystem. PulseAI delivers continuous quality intelligence, PrismAI strengthens data integrity and data confidence, InsightHubAI unifies customer intelligence, and EdgeOpsAI provides intelligent reliability and operations.

    These platforms, alongside AI-powered solutions spanning customer service, fraud and risk, application modernization, intelligent document management, and software engineering acceleration, are designed to enable scalable, responsible AI adoption across the enterprise.

    At the center of this ecosystem is Maveric’s proprietary AI @ Scale framework enabling banks to move from isolated AI use cases to industrialized transformation through business revisioning and process and technology reimagination. At the line of business and function levels, the framework integrates domain-aligned data foundations, multi-agent orchestration, AI governance, lifecycle management, and outcome-driven execution into a unified delivery model.

    With a presence across three continents and 25+ years of long-standing relationships with global banks, regional leaders, and emerging fintechs, Maveric Systems is uniquely positioned to help financial institutions build the next generation of AI-first enterprises with trust engineered into every layer.

  • Nation First, Duty Above Comfort – PM Modi Urges Citizens to Conserve Fuel Amid West Asia Crisis !

    New Delhi, May 11 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to place “nation first” and adopt responsible practices to minimise the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on India’s economy and energy security.

    Nation First, Duty Above Comfort - PM Modi Urges Citizens to Conserve Fuel Amid West Asia Crisis !

    Emphasising that the Centre is making all possible efforts to protect people from the adverse effects of the conflict, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to use fuel and essential resources judiciously during the challenging period.

    Among the key appeals, PM Modi called on people to reduce unnecessary consumption of petrol and diesel, avoid wastage of electricity and fuel, and support measures aimed at maintaining economic stability. He also urged citizens to prioritise national interest over personal comfort and cooperate with the government in managing the situation responsibly.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that global tensions in the West Asia region could affect fuel prices, supply chains, and economic conditions worldwide, including India. He assured that the government is continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities and energy supplies.

    The appeal comes amid rising international concerns over escalating tensions in the Gulf region and their possible impact on global markets and oil trade.

  • FM Announces Record USD 1.5 Billion Membership Credit

    May 11: Commercial property insurer FM today announced its largest-ever membership credit of approximately US$1.5 billion for eligible mutual policyholders, highlighting an extraordinary year of partnership, protection and loss prevention.

    This year’s record membership credit was driven by FM’s clients, whose commitment to risk mitigation and loss prevention drove historically low losses. In 2025, FM partnered with clients to complete more than 48,000 loss prevention recommendations, reducing loss exposure associated with property risk by an estimated US$1 trillion.

    In recognition of these achievements, FM is providing an additional one-time 5% enhancement to the membership credit for all eligible clients. Including FM’s recent enhanced resilience credit, 2026 declared FM policyholder credits total US$2.3 billion, which represents more than 100% of FM’s 2025 underwriting profit.

    “This year’s FM membership credit is a testament to the strong partnerships that we forge with our clients and their steadfast commitment to building resilience and preventing losses before they happen,” said Malcolm Roberts, chairman and chief executive officer of FM. “In today’s rapidly changing and unpredictable environment, resilience has never been more relevant. Thanks to the power of our mutual business model and our shared commitment to risk mitigation, we can share our success with our clients. By working together, we are creating a more resilient future.”

    The membership credit is made possible by FM’s strong financial performance and mutual company structure. Through the membership credit program, FM will offer a credit to all eligible mutual policyholders with renewal or anniversary dates from June 30, 2026, through June 29, 2027, in the form of a premium offset at the time of policy renewal.

    With this year’s credit, FM will have returned more than US$8.9 billion through its membership credit program since 2001.

    This year’s FM membership credit includes the standard allocation across all four tiers, along with a one-time 5% enhancement recognizing clients’ unprecedented level of loss mitigation and prevention. FM mutual policyholders eligible for the credit will receive the following:

    • 10% credit for fewer than five consecutive years.
    • 15% credit for at least five consecutive years but fewer than 10 years.
    • 17.5% credit for at least 10 consecutive years but fewer than 15 years.
    • 20% credit for at least 15 consecutive years.
  • Juicy Couture Unveils New Retail Destination in Hyderabad, Reinforcing India Expansion Strategy

    Hyderabad, May 11: Juicy Couture, the iconic global lifestyle brand known for its glamorous and playful take on everyday fashion, has launched its newest retail store at Lake Shore Mall, Kukatpally, Hyderabad. The new store brings the internationally renowned, Los Angeles–based fashion brand to one of South India’s most vibrant and fast-evolving cities. 

    Juicy Couture Unveils New Retail Destination in Hyderabad, Reinforcing India Expansion Strategy

     

    Located in the popular Lake Shore Mall, the store offers an immersive shopping experience that reflects Juicy Couture’s signature blend of casual luxury, glamorous lifestyle, and bold fashion statements. Shoppers can explore an exclusive assortment of the brand’s iconic velour suits, trend-forward tees and tanks, stylish handbags, and other lifestyle products tailored for an aspirational lifestyle. The debut in Hyderabad underscores the brand’s commitment to connecting directly with the metropolitan consumer base through a meticulously curated retail environment that blends global trends with the city’s evolving fashion sensibilities. 

    Commenting on the launch, Abhinav Kumar, Co-founder, Brand Concepts Limited, said:

    “Juicy Couture continues to resonate strongly with fashion-forward consumers in India who appreciate brands that blend style with individuality. Hyderabad is a vibrant and fast-evolving retail market, and we are excited to further strengthen the brand’s presence while bringing Juicy Couture’s distinctive aesthetic closer to customers in the city.”

    The debut marks a significant milestone in Juicy Couture’s expansion in India, reflecting the brand’s continued focus on bringing premium international fashion to key markets across the country. The launch introduces Juicy Couture’s signature aesthetic and globally celebrated collections to Hyderabad’s growing community of style-conscious consumers.

    With this launch, Brand Concepts Limited continues to strengthen its role in expanding the presence of leading global fashion brands in India. As the official partner of Authentic Brands Group for Juicy Couture in the country, Brand Concepts Ltd. is focused on growing the brand’s reach across apparel, handbags, accessories, and travel gear, making its distinctive style accessible to a wider audience of Indian consumers.

    Store Address: Ground Floor, Unit No. 20, Lake Shore Mall, Y-Junction, Kukatpally, Hyderabad – 500072

  • RSWM Ltd. showcases AW27 denim collection ‘In-DIG’o Alchemy’ at Denimsandjeans India 2026 in Bengaluru

    Mumbai, May 11: RSWM Ltd., the flagship company of the LNJ Bhilwara Group, showcased its latest Autumn/Winter 2027 denim collection, ‘In-DIG’o Alchemy – Where chemistry creates character’, at the 7th edition of Denimsandjeans India 2026, held on May 6–7, 2026, at The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru. The collection was presented to industry stakeholders, buyers, designers, and apparel manufacturers, reinforcing LNJ Denim, a denim-manufacturing facility under RSWM Limited, focus on innovation-led product development and future-ready denim solutions.

    Inspired by the transformative nature of indigo, the ‘In-DIG’o Alchemy’ collection reflects the intersection of science, craftsmanship, and evolving fashion sensibilities. Structured across six categories, Pulse, IndieCraft, Nova-Lab, Aerolite, MetroEdge, and Neo-City, the collection spans essential denim constructions, heritage-inspired textures, performance-led innovations, lightweight fluidity, metropolitan versatility, and elevated expressive finishes. The collection integrates advanced fibre engineering, sustainable processes, and versatile applications, showcasing LNJ Denim’s strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities across evolving market requirements.

    Commenting on the showcase, Mr. Ashish Bhatnagar, Deputy Business Head & CMO, LNJ Denim (RSWM Ltd.), said,

    “Denimsandjeans India provides a strong platform to engage with key stakeholders across the denim and fashion ecosystem. Through ‘In-DIG’o Alchemy’, we are presenting a collection that balances innovation, functionality, and creative expression, while aligning with the evolving expectations of global consumers and apparel markets.”

    RSWM’s participation at Denimsandjeans India 2026 further strengthens its strategic focus on innovation, sustainability, and design excellence within the global textile value chain. The collection reflects the company’s continued commitment to developing adaptive and responsible denim solutions that cater to both contemporary fashion trends and performance-driven applications.

  • CM Vijay Signs First Official Files After Taking Oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister!

    Chennai, May 11 (BNP): On his very first day as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay on Sunday signed three important files aimed at public welfare and social security. One of the key decisions includes providing 200 units of free electricity to domestic consumers using up to 500 units of electricity on a bimonthly basis.

    CM Vijay Signs First Official Files After Taking Oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister!

    Mr. Vijay signed the files shortly after the swearing-in ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, in the presence of thousands of fans, supporters, and party workers.

    Apart from the free electricity scheme, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister also announced the formation of a special task force to combat the growing drug menace in the state and directed officials to implement stronger measures to ensure women’s safety.

    The announcements mark the beginning of Vijay’s administration with a focus on welfare, law enforcement, and public safety.