Archives April 2026

business

Mindful Strides: Himalaya Wellness Company Unites Delhi in Walk to Champion Mental Health

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Business Wire India

Himalaya Wellness Company hosted the Delhi edition of the ‘Mindful Strides 5K Walkathon’ today at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Now in its fourth year, the 5K walkathon, inaugurated by KG Umesh, Director–Human Resources, Dr. Babu U V, Director–R&D, and Dr. Rangesh, Director–Intellectual Property, Himalaya Wellness Company. This event brought together over 4,000 participants from across the city to promote mental well-being and raise awareness about mental health.

Delhi was chosen as the host city, having been identified as India’s most stressed city with 37.7% of residents reporting significant stress levels according to Himalaya’s nationwide Stress Test. This highlighted an urgent need for proactive mental health conversations and solutions in the capital.

The walkathon started at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, covered C-Hexagon, Kartavya Path, and the Janpath crossing, and concluded at the National Stadium.

“Mental well-being is an essential aspect of overall health, and we believe in fostering awareness through community-driven initiatives like the Mindful Strides Walkathon,” said KG Umesh, Director–Human Resources, Himalaya Wellness Company. “Walking together, even for a single morning, can build mental resilience and help break the stigma surrounding mental health. It can spark vital conversations that genuinely shift how people think about their mental well-being and encourage them to seek support.”

Mindful Strides has demonstrated consistent growth, originating in Bengaluru in 2023, followed by Chennai in 2024, and Mumbai in 2025. The Delhi edition attracted a diverse group from across the city, including corporate professionals, fitness enthusiasts, students, families, and mental health advocates, reflecting a growing public appetite for open discussions on mental health. Many expressed gratitude for an initiative that provided a safe, supportive, and accessible platform to address mental health concerns openly.

More than just a fitness event, Mindful Strides primarily aims to break the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health. While research consistently highlights the positive link between regular physical activity and reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, the successful Delhi edition marked another milestone in Himalaya Wellness Company’s broader commitment to making mental health awareness a mainstream, everyday conversation across India.

business

At Kenya State House, Merck Foundation in Partnership With Kenya First Lady and Ministry of Gender Launch Their “Educating Linda” Program to Support Girl Education

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Business Wire India

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their Educating Linda program in Kenya in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” at the Kenya State House. The program was chaired by Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej and The First Lady of Kenya, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign said, “I am very happy to meet my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, and officially launch our Educating Linda program in the country, to support girl education.

As a part of Educating Linda, we are providing annual scholarships to 47 deserving, high-performing, yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, till they finish their education. This will ensure they are not forced to abandon their education due to financial hardship. We truly believe that an educated girl transforms the entire community.”

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, expressed, “I deeply appreciate all the programs of Merck Foundation including the Educating Linda program, through which we are providing annual scholarships to our 47 deserving schoolgirls to support their education until they graduate. We believe that every girl in Kenya, and across Africa, deserves the opportunity to pursue her dreams. Every barrier that prevents a girl from going to school must be dismantled, and this program is one powerful means of doing exactly that. I am confident these young girls will reach their full potential and go on to inspire many others.”

During the program, the Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with the First Lady of Kenya, took the opportunity to meet and encourage the Kenyan schoolgirls who are the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program, and to hear directly from them and their parents about the impact the scholarships have had on their lives.

The Educating Linda program by Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies, is providing annual scholarships to more than 1,250 schoolgirls across 21 African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others. The program also ensures that thousands of schoolgirls across Africa receive essential school supplies, removing further practical obstacles to their education.

“When a girl is educated, entire nation is empowered. Educated girls grow into empowered women, who drive prosperity, strengthen families, and advance nations. That is the vision behind everything we do: Girl Education today for Women Empowerment tomorrow,” said Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation together has provided 328 scholarships for Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties; including Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Oncology, Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Gastroenterology, Psychiatry, Neurology, and many more. During the visit, Merck Foundation also conducted their Alumni Summit 2026, to acknowledge and meet their Alumni. Moreover, they also met and recognized the Merck Foundation Awards Winners of 2024 and 2025.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of Kenya is also launching children’s storybooks: “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar Free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These storybooks address critical social and health issues and will be available in both English and Swahili. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren across Kenya.

Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Kenya also annually launch their 8 important awards for best media, film, fashion designs and songs. Together, they have also conducted several editions of Merck Foundation Health Media Training Program, enabling Kenyan journalists to be equipped to be the voice of the voiceless and report responsibly and effectively on sensitive subjects, including infertility, child marriage, gender-based violence, diabetes, and hypertension.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

 

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

 

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

 

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

 

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

 

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

 

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

 

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

 

Apply here: https://merck-foundation.com/Awards-Online-Application-Form

 

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to:

submit@merck-foundation.com

 

Click the link below to Download Merck Foundation App

https://www.merck-foundation.com/MF_StoreRedirection

 

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard

Facebook: Merck Foundation
X: @MerckFoundation
YouTube: MerckFoundation
Instagram: Merck Foundation
Threads: Merck Foundation
Flickr: Merck Foundation
Website: www.merckfoundation.com

news

Markets End Flat as Global Uncertainty Over US Iran Talks Keeps Investors Cautious

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Mumbai, Apr 20 (BNP): Indian equity markets ended on a subdued note on Monday, as investors adopted a cautious stance amid lingering uncertainty over US-Iran diplomatic developments and mixed global market signals.

Benchmark indices remained volatile throughout the session, with intermittent swings in both directions. However, lack of strong domestic triggers and unclear global cues led the Sensex and Nifty to close with only marginal changes.

Sentiment was largely shaped by geopolitical developments in West Asia, where market participants continue to track tensions and negotiations that could influence global crude oil supply and overall risk sentiment.

While selective buying in frontline stocks provided some support, it was not enough to drive a decisive market move, keeping indices largely range-bound.

Market observers noted that in the absence of fresh catalysts, global geopolitical risks are dictating short-term direction, even as domestic liquidity conditions help prevent deeper corrections.

Overall, the session reflected a cautious trading environment, with investors remaining on the sidelines and awaiting clearer global signals before taking firm positions.

technology

NIFTEM Thanjavur Empowers 82 Young Entrepreneurs Through Food Start-Up Training Programme

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Thanjavur, Apr 20 (BNP): The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur, has successfully conducted a two-day capacity-building programme aimed at fostering entrepreneurship in the food processing sector.

The initiative brought together 82 aspiring food entrepreneurs, offering them structured training designed to strengthen both technical understanding and business readiness for launching start-ups in the food industry.

The programme focused on core aspects of food entrepreneurship, including product development, food safety standards, regulatory compliance, packaging innovation, branding strategies, and financial planning. Participants also received guidance on market linkages, funding opportunities, and scaling early-stage ventures.

Experts and resource persons engaged with participants through interactive sessions and case-based learning, helping them understand the practical challenges and opportunities within India’s rapidly expanding food processing ecosystem.

Officials highlighted that the initiative is aligned with national efforts to promote food sector innovation, value addition in agriculture, and youth-led enterprise development, particularly in emerging Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets.

The training also underscored the importance of sustainable practices, encouraging entrepreneurs to adopt efficient production methods, reduce waste, and explore opportunities in organic and health-focused food segments.

By equipping participants with industry-relevant skills and entrepreneurial insights, the programme aims to support the creation of scalable food enterprises, contributing to employment generation and strengthening rural and semi-urban economies.

NIFTEM-Thanjavur reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong ecosystem of food innovators who can leverage India’s agricultural base and growing consumer demand to build competitive and sustainable businesses.

business

Mentos Brings the Freshness to Calvin Harris’ Historic India Debut in Mumbai

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Mumbai, Apr 20: Mentos, from the house of Perfetti Van Melle, turned up the freshness and fun at the spectacular India debut of global DJ sensation Calvin Harris in Mumbai on Saturday, 18 April 2026. As thousands of fans gathered at Infinity Bay, Sewri, to witness the icon live, Mentos converted the concert into a high-energy playground, making 30,000 fans the real stars of the night.

Mentos Brings the Freshness to Calvin Harris’ Historic India Debut in Mumbai

The highlight of the evening was Mentos Popstar Cam, a massive digital activation that focused on the crowd to capture spontaneous moments of joy. Fans caught on the big screen were celebrated as the “real popstars” of the night, showcasing their best dance moves and “fresh” energy to the beats of Harris’ chart-topping hits.

Mentos brought back its popular Mentos Ice Tunnel to make the experience even more captivating. A multi-sensory “cool zone,” the installation offered a refreshing, immersive walkthrough that provided a much-needed chill escape from Mumbai heat. The Ice Tunnel became the most photographed place of the night because of its sleek design and sensory effects.

Calvin Harris, one of the world’s most celebrated music producers and pop icons, delivered an electrifying performance, making his India debut a landmark moment for music lovers in the country. With Mentos in the mix, the evening transformed into a fan-first moment, perfectly matching the artist’s high-octane energy and connecting with the crowd through the lens of spontaneity and music culture.

“Gen Z and young millennials don’t just attend concerts; they turn them into content, community, and culture. Live music is where energy comes alive in real time, and everyone wants to feel like they’re part of the moment. With Mentos, we’re showing up where culture is, creating fan-first experiences that go beyond the product. Calvin Harris’ India debut in Mumbai was the perfect stage to bring our ‘Mentos Zindagi’ vibe to life,” said Gunjan Khetan, Director – Marketing, Perfetti Van Melle India.

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news

7.4 Quake Hits Northern Japan, Triggers Tsunami Warning

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Apr20(BNP): A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck northern Japan on Monday, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) to issue a tsunami warning for waves of up to three metres. The quake occurred at 4:53 PM (local time) in the Pacific waters off Iwate Prefecture and was strong enough to shake buildings as far away as Tokyo.

7.4 Quake Hits Northern Japan, Triggers Tsunami Warning

Approximately 40 minutes after the earthquake, an 80-centimetre tsunami wave was recorded at a port in Kuji, Iwate. Authorities immediately urged residents in coastal and riverside areas to evacuate to higher ground or designated evacuation buildings, warning that multiple waves could follow.

Officials cautioned that tsunami activity may continue and advised people not to return to low-lying areas until the warning is officially lifted. Emergency protocols were activated, and the Prime Minister’s Office set up a crisis management team to monitor the situation and coordinate response efforts.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi appealed to residents in affected regions to prioritise safety and follow evacuation advisories, while authorities continue to assess potential damage and casualties. Initial visuals from national broadcaster NHK did not indicate any major destruction at key ports, though officials warned of possible aftershocks.

Japan, located along the seismically active Pacific “Ring of Fire,” frequently experiences earthquakes, and authorities remain on high alert as the situation develops.

news

7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan, Tsunami Alert Issued

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7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan, Tsunami Alert Issued

 Pic Credit: Pexel

Tokyo, Apr 20 (BNP): A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan on Monday, triggering tsunami warnings and prompting authorities to issue evacuation advisories in several coastal areas.

The quake, which occurred under the Pacific Ocean, was felt strongly across nearby regions, leading emergency services to move swiftly into action. Officials warned that tsunami waves could impact parts of the coastline, urging residents in vulnerable zones to move to higher ground as a precaution.

Initial reports indicated moderate sea-level changes along certain coastal stretches, while authorities continued to monitor the situation closely for any escalation.

As a safety measure, transport services in affected areas were temporarily halted, and emergency protocols were activated to assess potential damage and ensure public safety. Authorities have also cautioned about the possibility of aftershocks, advising residents to remain alert.

There were no immediate reports of large-scale damage or casualties at the time of reporting, though assessments are ongoing.

Japan, located along the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently experiences earthquakes, and its disaster preparedness systems are designed to respond quickly to such events.

Officials have urged people to avoid coastal areas until further notice and to follow official advisories as the situation continues to evolve.

 
technology

BHIM App Adds Credit Score Feature, Expands Role Beyond Payments

Neel Achary 0 Comment

New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): The National Payments Corporation of India-backed BHIM app has introduced a new feature enabling users to check their credit scores directly within the app.

Launched in collaboration with TransUnion CIBIL, the feature allows users to securely access their CIBIL Score and credit report through a consent-based system.

The update, available on version 4.0.19 and above, aims to expand BHIM’s role beyond digital payments by promoting financial awareness and responsible credit usage.

This development aligns with India’s growing focus on digital financial inclusion, as the Unified Payments Interface ecosystem continues to see rapid adoption across the country.

business

SAEL Launches 600 MW Solar Plant in Andhra Pradesh, Boosts Clean Energy Capacity

Neel Achary 0 Comment

New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): SAEL Industries has operationalised a 600 MW solar power project in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, further strengthening India’s renewable energy infrastructure.

The large-scale project, spread across over 2,400 acres, has been developed in two units of 300 MW each through its subsidiary companies. The plant will feed clean electricity directly into the national grid, contributing to the country’s increasing reliance on sustainable power sources.

To ensure long-term financial stability, the company has secured a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Solar Energy Corporation of India, providing assured offtake for the generated power.

SAEL stated that the project is expected to offset approximately 11 lakh tonnes of carbon emissions annually, aligning with India’s climate commitments and efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The commissioning of the plant highlights the growing pace of large-scale solar deployment in India, driven by policy support, rising energy demand, and the push toward a cleaner energy mix.

Experts note that projects of this scale not only add to generation capacity but also play a crucial role in advancing energy transition goals, improving grid sustainability, and supporting long-term environmental targets.

 
business

India, South Korea Push to Upgrade CEPA to Deepen Trade and Investment Ties

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New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): India and South Korea have renewed efforts to strengthen their economic partnership, with Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal holding discussions with his South Korean counterpart on upgrading the existing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The talks focused on making the trade pact more aligned with current global economic dynamics, with both sides exploring ways to enhance market access, streamline trade processes, and unlock new investment opportunities.

Officials indicated that revisiting the CEPA is aimed at addressing existing gaps in the agreement while expanding its scope to include emerging sectors such as advanced manufacturing, technology collaboration, and sustainable industries.

The discussions come at a time when both countries are seeking to scale up bilateral trade and strengthen supply chain resilience amid global uncertainties. There is also a shared focus on encouraging greater participation from businesses and investors on both sides.

India and South Korea have maintained strong economic ties over the years, and the move to upgrade the agreement reflects a broader push to build a more dynamic and future-ready partnership.

The proposed revamp of CEPA is expected to support long-term growth in trade volumes, facilitate smoother investment flows, and deepen cooperation across key sectors, reinforcing the strategic economic relationship between the two nations.