Archives March 2026

 Summit emphasises bridging institutional and industry gaps to accelerate value creation, strengthen GCCs, and support India’s journey towards becoming a developed economy

New Delhi, Mar 20: The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI), a statutory body established under an Act of Parliament under the administrative control of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, successfully concluded the RISE India Leadership Summit 2026 in New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and financial experts to deliberate on the role of strategic leadership in advancing India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

ICMAI, the largest Cost and Management Accounting body in the world and in Asia, with nearly five lakh students and over one lakh qualified CMAs globally, continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening governance systems, ensuring transparency, and promoting financial discipline across India’s economic ecosystem. 

Held at Shangri-La Eros, the summit centred around the theme “Strategic Leadership for Global Capability Centre – CMAs as Architects of Value Creation & Capability Augmentation”, with a strong focus on identifying institutional, regulatory, and operational gaps that must be addressed to accelerate India’s transformation into a developed economy.

In his address, CMA T.C.A. Srinivasa Prasad, President, ICMAI, underscored the pivotal role of Cost and Management Accountants in driving efficiency, transparency, and value-based decision-making across sectors. He highlighted that CMAs are uniquely positioned to act as strategic enablers in bridging gaps between policy formulation and on-ground implementation, particularly in emerging areas such as Global Capability Centres (GCCs), digital finance, and sustainable growth frameworks.

The summit witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Shri Beeda Mastan Rao, Hon’ble Member of Parliament; Shri D Prasada Rao Hon’ble Member of Parliament. CMA Anand Kumar Pal, Advisor Manistry of finance, Shri CMA L.V. Sudhakar Babu, Managing Director, Sagarmala Finance Corporation; Shri Vivek Chandrakant Tongankar, Director (Finance), ONGC; CMA Rajesh Kumar Dwivedi, Director (Finance), BHEL; CMA Rakesh Yadav, Chairman, NIRC, ICMAI; and Shri CMA Sanjay Jindal, Director (Finance), Engineers India Limited, among others.

The event also reflected the collective leadership of ICMAI, including CMA Neeraj Dhananjay Joshi, Vice President; CMA Vinayaranjan P, Chairman, Career Counselling & Placement Committee; CMA B B Nayak , CMA Manoj Kumar Anand, CMA Rajendra Singh Bhati, CMA Navneet Kumar Jain, CMA Chittranjan Chattopadhyaya, CMA Avijit Goswami and Council Members; and CMA Dr D.P. Nandy, Secretary, along with other Council Members who contributed to the success of both the summit and the preceding press conference. 

Deliberations throughout the summit focused on strengthening India’s institutional capacity to support the Viksit Bharat mission by enhancing financial discipline, improving cost competitiveness, and fostering innovation-led growth. Speakers highlighted the need for robust policy alignment, capacity building, and deeper industry-academia collaboration to address skill gaps and ensure that India’s GCC ecosystem evolves into a global benchmark for efficiency and value creation.

The summit served as a high-level platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, bringing together CEOs, CFOs, Directors, senior corporate leaders, HR professionals, senior government officials, and industry representatives to collectively shape strategies for strengthening India’s global business and capability ecosystem. 

A key takeaway from the discussions was the critical importance of CMAs in enabling data-driven governance, optimizing resource allocation, and supporting regulatory frameworks that align with global standards. The summit also stressed the need to institutionalise best practices in cost management and performance measurement to enhance India’s competitiveness in global markets.

Industry leaders from organisations such as Microsoft India, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Accenture, Apple India Private Limited, Power Finance Corporation Limited, BHEL, NSIC, REC Limited, Central Warehousing Corporation, Cement Corporation of India Limited, KRIBHCO Green Energy Pvt Ltd,  Accenture, HCL, Samsung, Orange Business and TPM Consultants Pvt Ltd shared insights on building resilient and future-ready enterprises aligned with national priorities.

The RISE India Leadership Summit 2026 concluded with a collective commitment from ICMAI and participating stakeholders to actively contribute towards bridging systemic gaps, strengthening institutional frameworks, and enabling a robust economic architecture—reinforcing the role of CMAs as key drivers in achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Odisha, already recognised as one of India’s most mineral-rich states, is entering a new phase of exploration and opportunity with the reported discovery of diamonds and other valuable minerals. These findings are positioning the state as a future hub not only for traditional mining but also for high-value resources that could significantly reshape its economic landscape.

Pic Credit: Pexel

Recent Breakthrough: Diamond Traces in Nuapada

In a major development, diamond-bearing rock formations have been identified in the Kalamidadar region of Nuapada district. The discovery, highlighted in the state assembly, has generated strong interest among policymakers and experts. Detailed geological and feasibility studies are currently underway to assess whether commercial extraction is viable.

Alongside this, indications of ruby deposits have been reported in Kalahandi, while potential gold-bearing zones have been identified in districts such as Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. Together, these findings underline the largely untapped and diverse mineral potential beneath Odisha’s surface.

 A Diversifying Mineral Landscape

Odisha’s mineral profile is expanding beyond its traditional strengths in iron ore, bauxite, and manganese. Recent surveys and exploration activities have indicated the presence of several valuable resources, including:

• Diamonds in Nuapada

• Ruby deposits in Kalahandi

• Gold indications in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Deogarh

• Copper, graphite, and nickel in parts of the state

In addition, potential rare mineral zones along the coastal belt are drawing attention due to their importance in modern industries such as electronics, renewable energy, and electric mobility.

This evolving mineral base is steadily enhancing Odisha’s position as one of India’s most resource-diverse states.

Economic Impact: A Potential Game Changer

1. Investment and Industrial Growth

The possibility of high-value mineral extraction is expected to attract significant interest from investors and industry players. Once feasibility is confirmed, Odisha could see a surge in mining-related industrial activity.

2. Employment and Regional Development

Mining and allied industries have the potential to generate large-scale employment opportunities. Regions such as Nuapada and Kalahandi could benefit from improved infrastructure, income generation, and broader socio-economic development.

3. Growth of Supporting Industries

A strengthened mining ecosystem can support multiple sectors, including mineral processing, logistics, engineering services, and jewellery manufacturing. This creates strong opportunities for small and medium enterprises as well.

4. Strategic Importance for Future Industries

Critical minerals like graphite, nickel, and rare earth materials are essential for electric vehicles, batteries, and advanced manufacturing. Odisha’s growing mineral base could play an important role in India’s transition toward clean energy and high-tech industries.

Policy Direction and Future Outlook

The state government is focusing on scientific exploration, detailed feasibility studies, and sustainable development planning before any large-scale mining begins. Future strategies are likely to include structured mineral auctions to ensure transparency and encourage responsible private participation.

Environmental safeguards and long-term sustainability are expected to remain central to policy decisions as the sector expands.

Conclusion

The discovery of potential diamond, gold, and other high-value mineral zones marks an important shift in Odisha’s economic trajectory. While exploration is still ongoing, the findings highlight the state’s growing importance in India’s mineral future.

If developed responsibly, this emerging mining landscape could transform Odisha into a major high-value mineral and industrial hub, driving economic growth, employment, and long-term development.

Observed on March 20 each year, Pakhala Dibasa has grown from a simple culinary tradition into a vibrant cultural celebration for Odias across the globe. What was once a humble summer meal is now a symbol of identity, heritage, and community bonding.

Pic Credit:https://x.com/MohanMOdisha

Pakhala—fermented rice soaked in water and often mixed with curd—is cherished for its cooling properties and probiotic benefits, making it ideal for the hot summer months. Beyond its nutritional value, it represents a way of life deeply rooted in Odisha’s traditions.

This year, the scale of celebrations has expanded significantly. Leading hospitality brands such as Nimantran, Mayfair, and Swosti Premium are offering elaborate “Gourmet Pakhala Thalis,” some featuring up to 20 traditional side dishes. These curated spreads are drawing food lovers and tourists, giving the traditional dish a modern and luxurious presentation.

What truly stands out is the global participation. With millions of households and members of the Odia diaspora across more than 20 countries observing the day, Pakhala Dibasa has evolved into an unofficial “national day” for Odias worldwide. As temperatures rise, people come together over a bowl of pakhala, celebrating not just food but shared heritage and collective memory.

The festivities also include cultural events such as the two-day Pakhala Paraba held at Panthanivas, where Odisha’s culinary richness is showcased alongside discussions on sustainability and traditional food practices. The event was inaugurated by Deepankar Mohapatra and will be attended by key leaders including Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida.

A major highlight this year is the state’s attempt to set a Guinness World Records benchmark by preparing the largest serving of pakhala—estimated at 800–850 kg. Organised in collaboration with the Robin Hood Army, the initiative emphasizes sustainability and a zero-waste approach.

Meanwhile, Cuttack is hosting vibrant community celebrations at Barabati Fort, bringing people together from midnight through the afternoon. Local leaders, including Subhash Singh, have highlighted how pakhala has evolved from a modest household dish to one that is widely appreciated for both its health benefits and cultural significance.

In my own home, the preparation of pakhala remains a cherished ritual. Cooked rice is cooled and soaked in water, often with a touch of curd, allowing it to ferment slightly and develop its signature tang. For lunch, it is served with a variety of traditional sides such as aloo bharta, saga bhaja, badichura, and roasted dishes like baigana poda and bilati poda. Sometimes, crispy sukhua bhaja is added for an extra burst of flavor, along with simple accompaniments like green chilies and onions.

More than just a meal, Pakhala Dibasa is a reminder of Odisha’s rich food heritage and sustainable eating practices. Whether enjoyed at home, in restaurants, or at community gatherings, a bowl of pakhala continues to unite people—offering comfort, nourishment, and a deep connection to cultural roots.

By: Megan Watzke 

Mar 20: As the Northern Hemisphere transitions from winter to spring, scientists are highlighting a different kind of bloom—one that unfolds across the cosmos. New imagery from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory showcases vibrant star-forming regions, often called “stellar nurseries,” where new stars are continuously born from clouds of gas and dust.

These cosmic “gardens” provide a unique glimpse into the early stages of star formation. Using powerful X-ray imaging, Chandra can penetrate dense interstellar material, revealing young stars and high-energy activity hidden within. The images also offer insights into how such environments influence planet formation and evolution.

A Cosmic Spring in Stages

The collection presents stellar nurseries at different stages of development, much like the progression of spring:

• Early-stage regions such as the Pelican Nebula and Cat’s Paw Nebula contain stars roughly one million years old—extremely young compared to our Sun, which is over 4.5 billion years old. These images combine X-ray data from Chandra with optical and infrared observations from Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope.

• Mid-stage regions, including NGC 346, the Flame Nebula, and Westerlund 2, host stars between one and three million years old, revealing increasingly complex stellar environments.

• Later-stage systems are represented by Cygnus X-1, a powerful binary system where a black hole interacts with a massive companion star. This region illustrates the later phases of stellar evolution.

The Cycle of Stellar Life

The companion star in Cygnus X-1, more than 20 times the mass of the Sun, is expected to eventually explode in a supernova, dispersing essential elements into space. These elements become the building blocks for future generations of stars and planets—mirroring the cycles of renewal seen in nature on Earth.

Scientists note that such supernova events play a crucial role in shaping galaxies by enriching the cosmic environment with materials necessary for life.

Advancing Our Understanding of the Universe

Managed by NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, the Chandra program continues to provide groundbreaking insights into high-energy phenomena in the universe. Scientific operations are conducted by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.

These latest observations not only highlight the beauty of the universe but also deepen our understanding of how stars—and ultimately planetary systems—are formed, evolve, and give rise to new cosmic beginnings.

Bhubaneswar witnessed an energetic start to the 24th National Para Athletics Championship 2026, with Odisha’s para-athletes delivering an impressive performance on the opening day at Kalinga Stadium.

The host state secured a total of five medals, including two gold, one silver, and two bronze, setting a strong tone for the competition ahead. Athletes from Odisha showcased determination and skill across multiple events, earning early recognition among participants from across the country.

The championship has drawn top para-athletes nationwide, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere. Spectators were treated to high-energy performances as participants pushed their limits in pursuit of excellence.

Odisha’s strong start not only reflects the state’s growing focus on inclusive sports but also highlights the rising standards of para-athletics in India. With several events still to unfold, expectations remain high for more standout performances in the coming days.

In a defining moment for Indian athletics, the state of Odisha has been selected to host the prestigious World Athletics Indoor Championships 2028. This announcement marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global sporting powerhouse.

Pic Credit: https://x.com/IPR_Odisha

The championship’s return to India after more than two decades highlights the country’s growing reputation for successfully organizing international sporting events. For Odisha, in particular, this achievement reflects years of focused investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development.

The decision is being seen as a strong endorsement of India’s ability to deliver world-class sporting experiences. Odisha has already earned recognition for hosting major hockey events and nurturing grassroots talent, and this new responsibility further cements its status as a leading sports hub in the country.

Leaders across the nation have expressed pride in this accomplishment, emphasizing how it showcases India’s emergence on the global stage. The support and vision of Narendra Modi have also been acknowledged as instrumental in strengthening the country’s sporting ecosystem.

Beyond the competition itself, the 2028 championships present an opportunity to display India’s rich culture, warm hospitality, and organizational excellence to a global audience. Athletes and fans from around the world can expect not just high-quality sporting action, but also an immersive experience of Indian traditions and spirit.

As preparations begin, anticipation is already building. The event is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes while boosting India’s ambitions of hosting even larger global competitions in the future.

With this announcement, Odisha take another confident step forward on the world sporting map.

Mumbai, Mar 20:  EisnerAmper India announced the opening of additional office space at Nesco IT Park in Goregaon, expanding its Mumbai footprint to approximately 75,000 sq. ft. and increasing seating capacity to more than 1,000. The milestone makes EisnerAmper India the largest U.S. accounting firm global capability centre (GCC) in Maharashtra—strengthening its ability to serve global teams and build long-term relationships with clients.

Located within Nesco IT Park—known for its Class-A infrastructure and on-campus amenities—the new space supports EisnerAmper India’s AI enabled infrastructure and helps teams collaborate closely with colleagues and international clients. 

“This new office is a clear signal of our momentum and our long-term commitment to India,” said Hiren Modi, Managing Partner, EisnerAmper India. “As demand for high-quality services continues to rise, we’re investing in AI-first capabilities, our people and a workplace built for collaboration—so we can deliver at scale while staying close to the teams and clients who count on us.”

The workplace is purpose-built for modern delivery, with multiple collaboration rooms, huddle spaces and quiet focus zones that make it easy for teams to connect, share ideas and strengthen day-to-day working relationships.

EisnerAmper India supports the firm’s global operations with professionals across Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. Over the past year, the organisation has continued to grow in capacity and capability. In addition to building its own GCC, EisnerAmper India has helped several companies setup their GCCs in Mumbai and other parts of India, leveraging on their deep local expertise, its international relationships and its high-quality reputation.  

New Delhi, India/Mar 20– Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Dhwani Foundation, is delighted to announce the much-anticipated “Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026”, a grand celebration of Indian classical music bringing together some of the finest maestros and emerging talents on a single मंच.

Scheduled for Sunday, 19th April 2026, the festival will take place at the prestigious Muktadhara Auditorium, located within Banga Sanskriti Bhawan (18-19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi – 110001). The event will run from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering an immersive day-long musical experience.

The festival will commence with a soulful Vandana by the disciples of Shri Partha Sarathi Lenka, setting a devotional tone for the evening. The program features an exceptional lineup of renowned artists across diverse classical genres:

• Flute: Shri Aanjaneya Joshi

• Santoor: Pt. Raj Kumar Majumdar

• Vocal: Pt. Ashish Narayan Tripathi

• Sitar: Pt. Smarajit Sen

• Vocal Duet: Dr. Prabhakar Kashyap & Dr. Diwakar Kashyap

• Tabla Solo: Pt. Biplab Bhattacharya

Accompanying Artists:

• Tabla: Pt. Subh Maharaj, Ustad Babar Latif, Shri Shubhendu Das, Shri Rudraksha Shrivastava

• Harmonium: Pt. Vinay Mishra & Shri Lalit Sisodia

“Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026” aims to celebrate the richness of Indian classical traditions while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation among audiences of all ages. The event promises an enriching confluence of melody, rhythm, and artistry.

You are cordially invited to be part of this musical journey.

RSVP:
Swaranjali Delhi | Dhwani Foundation
Website: www.swaranjali.org