Archives June 2026

Gurugram, June 01: Cars24 announced the launch of AI Labs, a dedicated initiative focused on building AI-first products, supporting ambitious founders and helping shape the next wave of AI innovation. As part of this commitment, the company will invest $20 million in startups and teams building transformative AI technologies.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future trend. It is rapidly becoming the foundation on which the next generation of products, companies and industries will be built.

Cars24 has witnessed that transformation firsthand.

Over the last few years, AI has become deeply embedded across the company’s operations, helping teams move faster, make better decisions and create better customer experiences. What began as experimentation has evolved into a core operating philosophy, influencing how products are built, problems are solved and businesses are scaled.

With AI Labs, Cars24 is taking that journey beyond its own walls.

The initiative is designed to help founders and builders turn breakthrough ideas into real-world companies. Through a combination of capital, mentorship, infrastructure, distribution opportunities, and access to leading AI technologies, AI Labs aims to become a launchpad for the next generation of AI entrepreneurs.

The initiative brings together partners including OpenAI, AWS, and ElevenLabs, creating an ecosystem where builders can access world-class technology, expertise, and support as they bring new products to market.

“Every major technology shift creates a handful of companies that go on to define the future. We believe AI is the biggest shift of our generation, and the opportunity ahead is far larger than anything we’ve seen before,” said Vikram Chopra, Founder and CEO, Cars24.

“Over the last few years, we’ve seen AI fundamentally change how we operate, build products, and serve customers AI Labs is our way of giving back to the ecosystem that is shaping this future. We want to back founders early, help them move faster, and support the people building things that seem impossible today but inevitable tomorrow.”

AI Labs will focus on three key areas:

• Build: Creating AI-native products and contributing to open-source innovation.

• Partner: Working closely with leading AI companies to accelerate adoption and experimentation.

• Invest: Providing capital and support to startups building category-defining AI businesses.

Beyond investments, AI Labs will actively contribute to the broader AI ecosystem through hackathons, builder programs, community initiatives and open-source projects aimed at accelerating innovation and encouraging experimentation.

As AI reshapes industries around the world, Cars24 believes the next generation of globally significant companies will be built by founders who embrace AI from day one. Through AI Labs, the company aims to play a meaningful role in helping those founders succeed.

Founders, researchers and builders interested in working with AI Labs can learn more at labs.cars24.com.

Bhubaneswar, June 1 (BNP): Odisha’s traditional summer beverage, Bela Panna (ବେଲ ପଣା), received national recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted it during the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat, drawing attention to the state’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

The mention of Bela Panna, a refreshing drink made from wood apple and widely consumed during summer months in Odisha, has been welcomed by cultural enthusiasts and citizens across the state. Deeply rooted in Odisha’s traditions, the drink is known not only for its refreshing taste but also for its health benefits, particularly in combating heat and aiding digestion.

Observers said the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment has brought renewed focus to Odisha’s indigenous food practices and traditional wisdom, which continue to hold relevance in modern lifestyles.

Bela Panna occupies a special place in Odisha’s cultural fabric and is especially associated with the observance of Pana Sankranti, marking the traditional Odia New Year. The beverage symbolises the state’s age-old knowledge of seasonal wellness and sustainable food habits.

The recognition in Mann Ki Baat is being viewed as an important moment for Odisha, encouraging greater appreciation of local traditions and showcasing the diversity of India’s cultural heritage on a national platform.

Mumbai, June 1: Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited the nation’s premier commodity derivatives exchange is ranked No. 1 globally in Commodities Options. MCX Silver Futures and Options are ranked 2nd respectively . Silver Futures and Options average daily turnover was seen at Rs. 21,648 crores and Rs. 74,883 crores respectively (FY26). Within the Silver Futures, the Exchange has 30kg, 5kg, 1kg contracts and in Options, Exchange has 5kg, 30kg monthly contracts, all of them with good liquidity for market trading.

To further expand the portfolio of silver futures, with feedback from markets addressing the need for industry, the

‘Silver 100’ futures is being launched for commencement of trading from today.

Commenting on the launch, Ms. Praveena Rai, Managing Director & CEO, MCX, said:

“The Silver 100 Futures contract helps businesses in India’s silver industry protect themselves against price volatility. Local jewellery businesses can now hedge or take delivery in quantities that are better aligned with their inventory needs. This reduces the need to commit larger amounts of capital or take exposure beyond actual business requirements. The contract will also help retail participants to invest in silver in smaller quantities over time, while trading through a secure regulated exchange framework.”

Key features of the Silver 100g Futures contract include:

Effective for Hedging/Investment for jewelers, SME and retail investors

Flexibility driven by liquidity and smaller denomination

If delivery is taken at expiry of futures:

Ease of delivery

Transparent making charge

Quality assured product

MCX has recently issued a circular on ‘Revision of MCX Good Delivery Norms – Silver’ inviting eligible domestic silver refiners for applying to be empaneled as per MCX Good Delivery Norms. This initiative by Exchange would reduce dependence on import and increase domestic silver recycling.

MCX has issued Circular no MCX/TRD/287/2026 dated May 14, 2026 informing market participants for launch of Silver 100. Clearing and settlement will be handled via the Multi Commodity Exchange Clearing Corporation Limited (MCXCCL).

HAIFA BAY AUTHORITIES APPOINT FRANK MELLOUL AS AMBASSADOR 

1^st of June, 2026 – In the context of the strengthening of the Abraham Accords and the profound economic and geopolitical transformations reshaping the region, the Haifa Bay Authorities have entrusted Frank Melloul with a strategic mission dedicated to public diplomacy and international outreach.

The Haifa Bay Authorities announce the appointment of Mr. Frank Melloul as Ambassador of the Cluster, with the mission of defining and leading its international public diplomacy strategy.

As part of this mission, Frank Melloul will bring his international expertise, strategic vision and recognized experience to support the positioning of the Haifa Bay Authorities. Through his commitment, he will contribute to strengthening the region’s international standing, promoting its dynamism, and supporting the advancement of the territory’s strategic objectives.

This appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the region, as the Abraham Accords and the IMEC economic corridor (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) are opening new opportunities for regional, economic and geopolitical cooperation. The geographical position of Haifa Bay and northern Israel gives the region significant potential to serve as a central hub within this corridor.

Frank Melloul, Ambassador of the Haifa Bay Authorities:
“It is with a deep sense of honor that I accept this mission. Becoming the Ambassador of the Haifa Bay Authorities, at this particular moment in the region’s history, represents a unique responsibility. We are living through a historic turning point. The Abraham Accords have opened an unprecedented space for cooperation between the Port of Haifa and the wider world, while the IMEC corridor, linking India, the Middle East, and Europe, represents its most ambitious and promising economic expression. In this new geography, the Haifa Bay region is not one player among many: it is meant to become one of the strategic hubs of this corridor. Moreover, it brings together 52 Arab and Jewish local authorities, demonstrating every day that cooperation is not a promise, but a concrete reality. It is this dual message, economic opportunity and coexistence, that I am committed to carrying onto the international stage.”

Aharon Azulay, CEO of the Haifa Bay Authorities:
“We are delighted to welcome Frank Melloul and to count on his expertise for this major mission. Thanks to his experience and strategic vision, we are convinced that his mission will significantly contribute to the international outreach of the Haifa Bay region and to advancing its strategic ambitions at both the regional and global levels. Positioning the Haifa Bay Authorities at the heart of the region’s emerging geoeconomic dynamics is a key priority in our roadmap. Our diverse and multicultural territory provides a strong foundation for developing innovative partnership models on a global scale.”

Created in 2019, the Haifa Bay Authorities bring together 18 local authorities representing nearly 840,000 residents. The Cluster acts as a platform for regional coordination and action in key areas such as infrastructure, transportation, economic development, energy, sustainability and social services.

The Haifa Bay Authorities work to strengthen partnerships between local authorities, public institutions, the private sector and civil society in order to promote a shared vision for regional development.

Among its initiatives, the Haifa Bay Authorities established a Forum through which, in cooperation with the Galilee and Valleys Cluster and the Kinneret and Valleys Cluster, they bring together a regional network of 52 Arab and Jewish local authorities, embodying a unique model of regional cooperation and coexistence.

Under its leadership, the IMEC Information and Research Center was also created, dedicated to collecting data, research and analyses, while consolidating information from governmental, international and academic sources. The Authorities also launched the international “Next Bay” conference.

India, June 1: Bombay Dyeing, one of India’s most trusted and iconic home textile brands, has unveiled its summer 2026 Collection, a thoughtfully curated range inspired by the freshness of summer mornings, coastal calm, and the effortless comfort of summer living. Designed to bring softness, style, and seasonal renewal into modern homes, the collection reflects Bombay Dyeing’s continued focus on innovation-led design and elevated everyday experiences.

The SS26 Collection introduces three distinct design stories – Wonderland Glow, Toda Tide, and Moonmist, each crafted to cater to evolving lifestyle preferences while blending functionality with contemporary aesthetics.

For consumers who appreciate subtle sophistication, the Moonmist collection embraces understated luxury through soft tonal layers, muted palettes, and delicate textures. Inspired by calm and minimal living, the collection is designed to create serene bedroom environments with a refined contemporary sensibility. The range reflects timeless elegance through clean design language and sophisticated colour harmony. Priced at Rs 3,199.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Toda craftsmanship and the soothing movement of ocean tides, the Toda Tide collection brings together cultural artistry and contemporary design. Defined by geometric patterns, rhythmic detailing, and a calming palette of blues, whites, and earthy neutrals, the collection creates a refined and artistic bedroom aesthetic that feels rooted in heritage while remaining relevant to modern homes. Priced at Rs 2,999.

TheWonderland Glow collection transforms children’s bedrooms into imaginative nighttime spaces through playful glow-in-the-dark bedding designs. Featuring themes such as stars, astronauts, butterflies, aeroplanes, and whimsical characters, the collection is designed to make bedtime more enjoyable while helping create a comforting sleep environment for children. Made from soft, breathable 100% cotton and developed using non-toxic, child-safe glow technology, the range combines creativity, comfort, and practicality for modern families. Priced from Rs 1,099 to Rs 2,099.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Niraj Kumar, Chief Financial Officer, Bombay Dyeing, said:

“The summer 2026 Collection reflects our commitment to designing products that seamlessly combine comfort, aesthetics, and evolving consumer lifestyles. Each collection has been thoughtfully developed to cater to different moods and spaces within the modern home, from playful and imaginative designs for children to sophisticated and calming aesthetics for contemporary living spaces. Through this collection, we aim to offer consumers thoughtfully crafted products that enhance everyday living while staying true to Bombay Dyeing’s legacy of quality and trust.”

With breathable fabrics, contemporary design stories, and versatile styling, the SS26 Collection captures the spirit of the season while reinforcing Bombay Dyeing’s position as a leading destination for premium home textiles and lifestyle solutions.

The summer 2026 Collection is now available across Bombay Dyeing stores nationwide.

Consumers can locate their nearest store through the official store locator:Bombay Dyeing Store Locator

Ahmedabad, June 1 (BNP): Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their dominance in the Indian Premier League (IPL), clinching their second successive title with a convincing five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

A clinical all-round performance, spearheaded by Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 75 and a disciplined bowling display from the pace unit, helped Bengaluru comfortably chase down a modest target of 156 with two overs to spare.

Opting to bowl first, RCB bowlers delivered under pressure, dismantling Gujarat’s batting lineup and restricting them to 155/8 in 20 overs. Fast bowlers Rasikh Salam, Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar struck crucial blows at regular intervals to keep GT under control throughout the innings.

Josh Hazlewood provided the early breakthrough by dismissing Gujarat skipper Shubman Gill for 10, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Sai Sudharsan soon after, denting GT’s hopes in the powerplay. Gujarat struggled to recover as wickets continued to tumble against Bengaluru’s disciplined attack.

Despite the collapse, Washington Sundar stood firm and played a fighting unbeaten knock of 50, helping Gujarat cross the 150-run mark. Nishant Sindhu and Jos Buttler attempted to stabilise the innings but failed to convert their starts into substantial contributions.

Chasing 156, Bengaluru got off to a flying start courtesy of Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer, who stitched together a quickfire 62-run opening stand. Iyer’s aggressive 32 off 16 balls gave RCB early momentum before Mohammed Siraj broke the partnership.

Kohli then took complete control of the chase, anchoring the innings with composure and authority. The veteran batter smashed nine boundaries and three sixes in his unbeaten 42-ball 75, registering his fifth half-century of the season.

Although Gujarat found brief hope through Rashid Khan, who dismissed Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya in quick succession, Kohli steadied the innings alongside Tim David and later Jitesh Sharma to guide Bengaluru home.

Kohli fittingly sealed the title with a towering six, sparking celebrations among teammates and thousands of RCB supporters inside the packed Narendra Modi Stadium.

Named Player of the Match, Kohli described the moment as a dream fulfilled and credited the team’s confidence and consistency for the successful title defence.

With the triumph, skipper Rajat Patidar joined an elite list of captains to win consecutive IPL titles, while RCB further cemented their status as one of the tournament’s dominant forces in recent seasons.

Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, ended runners-up for the second time in three IPL finals, with their only title victory coming in their debut season in 2022.

Bhubaneswar, June 1, 2026: TiE Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with Bookingjini, hosted a vibrant Startup Meetup at Hotel Crown on May 27, bringing together around 30 aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, mentors, and ecosystem enablers for an evening of networking, learning, and investment-focused discussions.

The event provided founders with a unique opportunity to directly interact with investors and gain valuable insights into the startup funding landscape. A major highlight of the evening was an engaging interaction with Himanshu Goel, Founder of Azpiro Systems, who spent time listening to entrepreneurs, understanding their ideas, and sharing perspectives on building scalable ventures.

Source: LinkedIn

The gathering featured an insightful Fireside Chat moderated by Sibasish Mishra, former Joint Secretary of TiE Bhubaneswar. The session brought together investor viewpoints, entrepreneurial experiences, and discussions on the growth of Odisha’s startup ecosystem. Himanshu Goel shared his observations on startup investments, while Ayaskanta Mohanty, President of TiE Bhubaneswar, reflected on the organization’s journey and its efforts to foster entrepreneurship in the state.

The discussion also highlighted the rapid evolution of Odisha’s startup ecosystem and the increasing opportunities available to emerging entrepreneurs. Participants exchanged ideas on innovation, mentorship, funding access, and collaborative growth, creating a platform for meaningful engagement.

Prabhat Sahoo, Chair of the TiE Bhubaneswar Funding Committee, played a key role in steering the proceedings and ensuring productive interactions among founders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Abhitabya Pattanayak, Joint Secretary of TiE Bhubaneswar, who expressed appreciation to all participants, speakers, partners, and organizers for contributing to the success of the meetup.

Behind the seamless execution of the event was the dedicated effort of Partha Sarathi Ghosh, Executive Director of TiE Bhubaneswar, whose coordination and support helped bring together the startup community for an impactful evening.

More than just a networking event, the Startup Meetup served as a catalyst for future collaborations, funding discussions, and entrepreneurial growth. As founders left the venue, many carried with them renewed confidence, fresh connections, and a stronger belief in the possibilities that lie ahead for Odisha’s startup ecosystem.

For years, India’s tobacco control efforts focused largely on regulations, warning labels, and restrictions. Yet for millions already addicted to tobacco, quitting remained a deeply personal battle with limited access to professional support. A decade later, a national helpline operating from Delhi has demonstrated that sometimes the most effective intervention is not a new medicine or technology, but a conversation.

Since its launch in 2016, the National Tobacco Quitline Services  has received nearly 1 crore calls, registered over 6.75 lakh tobacco users, conducted more than 37 lakh counselling sessions, and helped 2,32,870 Indians successfully quit tobacco. 

Reflecting on the importance of awareness-led action, Shri Manoj Tiwari, Member of Parliament, North East Delhi, says, “India’s fight against tobacco cannot succeed through laws and regulations alone. Tobacco addiction affects not just individuals but entire families and communities. The National Tobacco Quitline Services has shown how accessible counselling and timely guidance can help people reclaim their health and future. Protecting young people from nicotine addiction is a collective national responsibility.” 

The story behind the Quitline begins with a simple observation made years ago by Dr. Raj Kumar, Director of the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute (VPCI) and Coordinator of NTQLS.

Long before the helpline existed, he realised that the majority of India’s tobacco users would never walk into a cessation clinic. Some lived too far away. Others lacked awareness, time, or resources. But almost all of them had access to a phone. That insight laid the foundation for what would eventually become India’s only free nationwide tobacco cessation counselling service. 

“India has one of the world’s largest populations of tobacco users, and for years there was no free, structured support system available at a national scale,” says Dr. Raj Kumar. “The Quitline gave every Indian who wanted to quit access to trained professional guidance regardless of where they lived, what language they spoke, or their financial circumstances.” 

Over the years, the initiative has expanded its footprint across every state and union territory. Uttar Pradesh alone has contributed more than two lakh registrations, while young adults aged 18–24 years account for the largest share of successful quitters, highlighting a growing willingness among younger Indians to break free from nicotine dependence. 

Public health experts believe the achievement is especially noteworthy given India’s enormous tobacco burden.

India is home to an estimated 267 million tobacco users, while tobacco-related diseases claim more than 1.35 million lives every year. Despite this, cessation services remain significantly underutilised and under-resourced. 

According to Dr. Digambar Behera, Padma Shri awardee and President of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), the Quitline has become one of the country’s most scalable public health interventions.

“What Dr. Raj Kumar and his team have created is India’s only nationally accessible, professionally staffed and free cessation support infrastructure. Achieving a quit rate of more than 34 per cent among registered users compares favourably with some of the best international Quitline programmes.” 

In an era when healthcare innovation is often associated with sophisticated technologies and expensive treatments, the success of the National Tobacco Quitline Services tells a different story.

For more than 2.3 lakh Indians, recovery did not begin in a hospital or clinic. It began with a phone call.