Archives 2026

Akums Strengthens Presence in Regulated Markets with EU GMP Approvals for 2 Haridwar Plants

New Delhi, Jan 28: Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), has achieved a significant regulatory milestone with the renewal of European Union Good Manufacturing Practice (EU GMP) certification for its Plant 1 facility and the grant of EU GMP certification for its Plant 2 facility, both located in SIDCUL, Haridwar. The certifications were awarded following recent inspections conducted by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

The EU-GMP audits comprehensively assessed Akums’ manufacturing operations, quality management systems, documentation practices, and compliance with EU GMP guidelines across both facilities. Based on the satisfactory inspection outcomes, the Drug agency renewed the EU GMP approval for Plant 1 and granted fresh certification for Plant 2.

With both facilities now operating under EU GMP norms, Akums is well positioned to expand its presence across Europe and other highly regulated geographies, supporting customers with a broader portfolio of high-quality oral formulations.

Akums Manufacturing Plant 1, located in SIDCUL, Haridwar, continues to serve as a key manufacturing hub for oral solid dosage forms. Under the renewed EU GMP certification, the approved scope includes tablets, hard gelatin capsules, and powder sachets. The facility is supported by advanced automation, precision manufacturing technologies, and robust quality systems designed to ensure consistent compliance with stringent international regulatory requirements.

Another Manufacturing Plant (Plant 2) which received EUGMP Certification, The newly granted EU GMP certification covers oral liquid dosage forms, including liquids, syrups, and suspensions. The facility features modern infrastructure and comprehensive quality control systems to support reliable and scalable manufacturing for regulated markets.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Sandeep Jain, Managing Director, Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., said:

“This milestone goes beyond regulatory approval—it reflects years of focused investment in quality systems, infrastructure, and people. The renewal of EU GMP certification for Plant 1 and the new certification for Plant 2 strengthen our ability to serve regulated markets with confidence. As an organisation supplying a significant share of India’s domestic pharmaceutical needs and exporting to over 65 countries, this achievement supports our long-term partnerships and sustained global growth.”

Mr. Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director, Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., added:

“EU GMP is amongst the most rigorous global manufacturing standards, and achieving certification across two facilities simultaneously underscores the maturity of our compliance and operational capabilities. This enables our partners to rely on Akums for consistent quality across both oral solid and oral liquid dosage forms, while enhancing our access to Europe and other regulated markets. Our focus remains on building a globally respected manufacturing platform that delivers safe, effective, and affordable medicines worldwide.”

EU GMP certification is widely recognized as one of the highest benchmarks in pharmaceutical manufacturing and is accepted by regulatory authorities across Europe and several other regulated regions. The certification enables Akums to supply products manufactured at both Haridwar facilities to these markets and supports the company’s continued international expansion.

Kia India Delivers More Value with Expansion of Syros Line-Up; Introduces HTK(EX)

Mumbai, Jan 28: Driven by customer feedback and evolving preferences, Kia India, one of country’s leading mass-premium automaker, today expanded the Syros line-up with the introduction of the new HTK (EX) trim. Priced at ₹9,89,000 (ex-showroom) for petrol powertrain and ₹10,63,900 (ex-showroom) for diesel, the new trim enhances the overall value proposition across the range.

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“At Kia, customer insights guide every product decision we make. The introduction of the HTK(EX) trim for Syros reflects our constant focus on responding to customer feedback and delivering meaningful value,” said Mr. Atul Sood, Sr. VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India. “By expanding the lineup at an attractive price point, we aim to make our SUV more accessible while continuing to offer the features and quality that customers expect from Kia,” he added.

With the expansion of the Syros line-up, customers now have an option to choose from seven different trims. Based on the HTK(O), the HTK(EX) trim comes equipped with LED DRLs, headlamps and tail-lamps, and R16 alloy wheels, enhancing the overall style quotient.

The HTK(EX) also offers a host of premium comfort and convenience enhancements, including an electric sunroofstreamlined door handles, a 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) touchscreen infotainment systemelectrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and a rear parking camera with sensors. Its comprehensive safety package comprises over 20 robust features, including ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Six Airbags and Vehicle Stability Management, among others.

To further expand customer choicethe HTK(EX) is now available with a diesel powertrain, strengthening its value proposition across fuel options.

These additions make Syros emerge as a compelling choice in its segment, offering enhanced value to customers. The SUV features a spacious and airy cabin, providing an unmatched experience with refined interior and comfortable seating for all passengers, along with class-leading boot space. Built on Kia’s design philosophy of “Opposites United”, Syros blends bold aesthetics with functional versatility. Based on the reinforced K1 platform and boasting a 5-star BNCAP rating, it ranks among the safest cars for families.

With the introduction of the new HTK (EX) trim, Kia continues to optimize its value-driven offerings, incorporating customer feedback to meet evolving expectations.

India–EU FTA to Unlock Tariff Relief, Services Access and Trade Growth: BDO India

Gyanendra Tripathi, Partner & Leader – Indirect Tax : North & West, Tax & Regulatory Advisory, BDO India

“Under the FTA, the EU will eliminate tariffs on over 90% of tariff lines, and 91% in terms of value on exports made from India, while India would eliminate tariffs on 86% of tariff lines, and 93% in terms of value of exports from EU. Moreover, both sides will partially liberalise a significant additional number of tariff lines, thereby bringing the overall coverage of trade liberalisation to 96.6% for India and 99.3% for the EU.”

The key sectors to benefit in India from customs duty elimination would be textiles, pharmaceuticals, footwear, chemicals, fisheries, gems and jewellery etc., whereas exporters from the EU would benefit from reduced import duties on machinery, medical devices, avionics, automotive and chemicals. This would make exports from these sectors more competitive in their respective jurisdictions.

For India, enhanced affordability of machinery due to reduced customs duties would encourage technological upgradation of manufacturing facilities, improving productivity. Further, duty removal for labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery, and leather would boost exports. Reduction in import duties on automobiles (under tariff quotas) could also stimulate demand and potentially lead to local manufacturing. In many cases, India’s staggered duty reductions provide adequate time for domestic industries to adapt. Overall, enhanced trade between two of the world’s largest economies will significantly accelerate economic activity and growth.”

Karthik Mani, Partner & Leader – Indirect Tax : South, Tax & Regulatory Advisory, BDO India

“The FTA secures strong commitments from the EU across key sectors, including IT and IT-enabled services, creating significant opportunities for Indian technology companies to expand their export footprint.”

Provisions related to the movement of independent professionals in areas such as R&D, education services, and computer and computer-related services will enable Indian specialists to access a wider range of clients across EU member states. This is expected to enhance cross-border service delivery, deepen professional engagement, and strengthen India’s presence in high-value knowledge sectors within the EU market.”

Munjal Almoula, Managing Partner – Tax & Regulatory Advisory, BDO India

“After nearly two decades of negotiations, India and the EU finalised the landmark Free Trade Agreement on January 26, 2026, hailed by many as the ‘mother of all deals.’ Designed as a ‘living agreement’ with provisions for digital trade, AI and semiconductor collaboration, and CBAM offsets via India’s CCTS linkage, it eliminates tariffs on over 96% of EU goods across 27 nations representing 25% of global GDP.”

Textiles, gems and jewellery, leather, pharmaceuticals, and high-tech engineering are expected to see strong growth, with bilateral trade projected to double to $136 billion by 2032 amid ongoing global trade realignments. The agreement also eases professional mo

India–EU FTA Signals Shift Toward Strategic, Long-Term Partnership: Sachin Alug

By:-  Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services

The India–EU Free Trade Agreement marks a clear shift toward a more strategic and enduring economic partnership. For Europe, India offers scale, diversified capabilities, and services that support innovation, resilience, and competitiveness. For Indian enterprises, the agreement provides structured access to one of the world’s most regulated and quality-driven markets, encouraging higher standards and value-led growth.

As European organizations deepen delivery footprints in India, the focus is steadily moving beyond offshore hiring toward building resilient Global Capability Centers with stronger governance, compliance, and operating rigor. This evolution is expected to drive sustained demand for specialised capabilities across compliance and trade, ESG and sustainability reporting, data protection and regulatory programmes, digital and engineering delivery, GCC build-outs, and workforce and vendor governance.

The phased reduction of motor vehicle tariffs- from 110% to 40%, with a longer-term aim of 10% within defined quotas- has the potential to reshape automotive supply chains. It lowers entry barriers while incentivising alignment with global quality, safety, and sustainability standards rather than volume-led exports.

Equally important is the focus on people mobility, including simplified student access supported by a dedicated EU office in India. Over time, this will strengthen education-to-employment pathways and the broader talent ecosystem across both regions. The India-EU startup partnership adds further momentum by connecting capital, research, and enterprise demand. Ultimately, the real impact of the agreement will depend on the speed of execution and how effectively policy intent translates into outcomes on the ground.”

Air India Reveals Custom Cabin Interiors for New B787-9

Air India Unveils Custom-Styled Cabin Interiors of the First Made-for-Air India B787-9; New Interiors to Become Standard Across B787 Fleet

Chandigarh, Jan 28: Air India today unveiled the custom-styled cabin interiors of its first line-fit (made-for-Air India) Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Bearing registration mark VT-AWA, the new aircraft features completely new cabin interiors, designed especially for Air India and installed directly on Boeing’s production line.

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Air India received delivery of the new aircraft on 11 January 2026, arriving in Delhi non-stop from Boeing’s factory in Everett, Washington. The aircraft is entering commercial service on flights between Mumbai and Frankfurt from 1 February 2026.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said:

“The arrival of this new Boeing 787-9, the first production widebody from the 470 aircraft-strong order signed three years ago, is a significant moment in Air India’s 5-year Vihaan.AI transformation programme. Though nearly 100 new and leased aircraft have already joined the Air India group’s fleet since privatisation, this is the first to be designed by and for Air India. It underscores Air India’s commitment to delivering a world-class physical product and inflight entertainment experience to complement the warm Indian hospitality already delivered by our crew.”

“The new cabin interiors on this aircraft will soon become the standard across our entire Boeing 787 fleet as, in addition to 19 more production aircraft, all 26 of Air India’s existing Boeing 787-8 aircraft are being retrofitted with the same new cabin interiors and entertainment systems. The retrofit programme is well underway, with the first upgraded aircraft due to return to service in the coming weeks and the remainder of the fleet by mid-2027.”

All-new cabin interiors

Air India’s new Boeing 787-9 aircraft comes with 296 seats distributed between three cabin classes: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. The cabins feature customised versions of the Elevate Ascent seat in Business Class and RECARO PL3530 and CL3710 seats in Premium Economy and Economy Class, respectively. All seats are equipped with Thales’ state-of-the-art AVANT Up inflight entertainment (IFE) system.

The Business Class cabin consists of 30 luxurious suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, offering direct aisle access to every guest. Each suite, featuring a sliding privacy door1, reclines into a fully flat bed of 79 inches in length or a chaise lounge, and offers 42” of pitch, 17-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen and IFE handset, Bluetooth headphone pairing, wireless charging and Type A and Type C fast charging ports, height-adjustable armrest, as well as plenty of storage. The suite also features an attractive cubby area that offers storage space with soft lighting inside, a vanity mirror and headphone hook, and a feature lamp designed with Air India’s jaali pattern that is inspired by India’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Premium Economy – a dedicated, upscale cabin offering greater privacy – features 28 seats in a 2-3-2 configuration, designed for enhanced long-haul comfort. Each seat offers generous legroom with 38-inch pitch and 7-inch recline, 6-way adjustable headrest, individually adjustable calf rest as well as a leg rest, 13.3-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen, Type A and Type C fast charging ports, and a bottle holder.

Economy Class – features 238 lightweight and ergonomically optimised seats in a 3-3-3 configuration, each offering the standard 31”/32” pitch and 5” recline, an 11.6-inch 4K QLED HDR touchscreen, and Type A and C charging ports. Of the 238 seats in Economy, Air India has made 220 seats available in its booking inventory for flights operated with this new aircraft.

A new design standard

Air India has styled the interiors of the new B787-9 aircraft, including seats, galleys, lavatories, flight crew rest area, side panels, laminates, etc. in collaboration with JPA Design, a global multidisciplinary design studio, especially to reflect Air India’s revitalised global brand identity.

The cabins feature a harmonious palette of soft creams, pinks, reds, warm golds, and rich purples, complemented by tactile materials inspired by natural textures and modern craftsmanship. This creates a sensorial experience of quiet luxury, authenticity, and contemporary Indian identity, with refined detailing, soft curves, warm lighting, improved stowage, and intuitive usability across all classes.

Mood lighting inspired by ancient Indian wellness traditions

On board the new B787-9 aircraft, Air India has introduced a unique mood lighting systems, developed in collaboration with Tata Elxsi. It draws inspiration from India’s rich heritage in wellness and the ancient concept of chakras – viewed in traditional philosophy as vital energy centres in the human body that support physical, mental, and emotional balance. The new mood lighting offers 10 custom scenes designed to align with passengers’ circadian rhythms and aid melatonin regulation, enhancing wellbeing on long-haul flights.

Axis Bank’s #DeshKaLocker Reimagines Respect for the Tricolour

Mumbai, Jan 28:Axis Bank, in collaboration with Grey India, has unveiled #DeshKaLocker, a Republic Day campaign that redefines how Indians express respect for the national flag. The initiative urges citizens not only to raise the tricolour with pride, but also to reflect on what happens after the celebrations end.

Every year on January 26, millions of flags are hoisted across homes, schools, and workplaces nationwide. Yet once the day concludes, many of these flags are often left unattended, mishandled, or quietly discarded. Desh Ka Locker brings attention to this overlooked moment, reminding the nation that true respect for the flag extends beyond hoisting—it includes caring for it with dignity even after the occasion has passed.

Rooted in Axis Bank’s core promise of safety and trust, the campaign expands the idea of protection beyond financial security. This Republic Day, the Bank invites Indians to safeguard something deeply personal and patriotic—the national flag itself.

Commenting on the idea, Harsh Kapadia, Chief Creative Officer, Grey India, said:

“India knows exactly what to do on the morning of January 26. What we don’t talk about is the evening. Desh Ka Locker comes from that gap. It turns a moment of emotion into a simple behaviour—raise the flag with pride, then keep it with pride.”

The campaign is anchored by a powerful brand film inspired by the journey of world champion boxer Nikhat Zareen. It traces her years of discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance leading up to a defining moment on the podium, standing beneath the tricolour as the national anthem plays.

Just as the film seems to reach its natural conclusion, it reveals a quiet yet poignant second act. Nikhat carefully folds the flag and places it inside a locker—symbolising a simple but profound truth: responsibility towards the national flag does not end when it is hoisted, but continues even when it is no longer on display.

Through this gesture, the film brings alive the central thought of the campaign:
Whatever your reason to raise the flag—victory, a milestone, or a new beginning—keep that pride safe.

Activated across 4,600 Axis Bank branches nationwide, #DeshKaLocker transforms Axis Bank’s safe deposit lockers into more than just a place for valuables. This Republic Day, they become a respectful home for the national flag—serving as a reminder that protecting what matters most also includes the symbols we hold sacred.

India Energy Week 2026 Opens in Goa, Positioning India at the Centre of Global Energy Growth and Partnerships

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi highlights $500 billion energy investment opportunity and landmark India–EU trade agreement; Dr. Sultan Al Jaber calls reliable partnerships the “real strategic reserve” in an era of transformation.

Jan 28- India Energy Week (IEW) 2026 officially opened today in Goa, bringing together global policymakers, energy ministers, CEOs, investors and innovators to shape the future of energy security, sustainability and growth.

With representatives from nearly 125 countries, the opening day included key speeches from leading global figures, highlighting India’s influence at a time when global energy systems are undergoing transformation.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi: India’s energy moment has arrived

Addressing the inaugural ceremony via video conferencing, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi welcomed global delegates and emphasised the importance of India Energy Week as a key forum for shaping a secure and sustainable future.

“India is a land of immense opportunities for the energy sector,” the Prime Minister said. As the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India’s demand for energy is rising continuously – and at the same time, India offers the capacity and capability to help meet global demand.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s expanding role in global energy markets – India is among the top five exporters of petroleum products, supplying more than 150 countries worldwide. He emphasised the opportunities for India’s large refining base – currently the world’s second largest.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the landmark Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union, describing it as a remarkable example of coordination between two of the world’s largest economies.

This agreement represents nearly one-quarter of global GDP and around one-third of global trade, Shri Modi said. Beyond trade, it reinforces India’s shared commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

In addition to Europe, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s expanding international engagement, including discussions with Canada on strengthening cooperation across the energy value chain. Discussions between Canadian Energy Minister Tim Hodgson and Indian Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri were held on the first day.

Outlining India’s ambition, Prime Minister Modi said the country was moving beyond energy security towards the mission of energy independence, supported by wide-ranging reforms, deep-sea exploration initiatives, LNG infrastructure expansion and rapid growth in city gas distribution.

“Our energy sector lies at the heart of India’s aspirations,” he said. “It holds $500 billion in investment opportunities. That is why Make in India. Innovate in India. Scale with India. Invest in India.”

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber: “Reliable partnerships are the real strategic reserves”

Another key speaker at the opening day was Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC. He urged industry leaders to look beyond short-term volatility and focus on the scale of opportunity created by rising global energy demand.

In an era of constant change, reliable partnerships are the real strategic reserves, Dr. Al Jaber said. “Transformation rewards those who move boldly, not those who wait for calm seas.”

Dr. Al Jaber described today’s energy landscape as being shaped by the rise of emerging markets, exponential growth in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure, and the transformation of global energy systems – trends that converge in India.

Between now and 2040, oil demand will remain above 100 million barrels per day, he said. Demand for LNG and electricity will grow by 50 percent or more.

Highlighting India’s central role in global energy growth, Dr. Al Jaber noted that over the next 15 years India’s air travel is expected to grow by 150 percent, its urban population will approach one billion, and data centre capacity will increase ten-fold.

“Progress and growth at this scale require a special kind of partnership,” he said. “Partnership that is strategic, long-term, agile and flexible – steadfast, dependable, principled and consistent. This is precisely what defines the UAE-India relationship.”

He reaffirmed ADNOC’s commitment to India, noting that India is the UAE’s number one LNG market, ADNOC is India’s largest LPG supplier, and a reliable provider of crude, feedstocks and chemicals.

Natural gas critical to reducing emissions

Also on the first day of India Energy Week, a high level leadership panel examined the evolving role of natural gas and LNG in strengthening energy resilience, supporting economic growth and enabling a realistic and inclusive energy transition amid geopolitical uncertainty.

The panel included Shri Arvinder Singh Sahney, Chairman, IndianOil Corporation Limited, Shri Sandeep Kumar Gupta, Chairman & Managing Director, GAIL (India) Limited, Ms Fatema Al Nuaimi, CEO, ADNOC Gas, and Mr Steven Kobos, President & CEO, Excelerate Energy. Panellists underscored that natural gas and LNG are increasingly emerging as long-term, foundational components of modern energy systems and that the energy transition must be approached as energy addition rather than abrupt replacement.

Hydrogen Zone inauguration

India’s Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Hardeep Singh Puri inaugurated the Hydrogen Zone on Day One of India Energy Week. The Hydrogen Zone, one of 11 thematic zones at this year’s event, showcases cutting-edge hydrogen technologies and solutions shaping India’s low-carbon future.

A platform for global collaboration

India Energy Week 2026 continues throughout the week with ministerial dialogues, executive roundtables, strategic agreements and technology showcases – reinforcing India’s position as a global convenor for energy insights and a catalyst for investment, innovation and partnership.

Unity, Discipline and Nation-Building: 77th Republic Day Celebrated with Dignity at ECL Headquarters

Sanctoria, Jan 27: Eastern Coalfields Limited celebrated the 77th Republic Day at its Headquarters, Sanctoria, in an atmosphere marked by patriotic fervour, dignity and cordiality. Shri Satish Jha, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, ECL, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
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The ceremony was attended by Md. Anzar Alam, Director (Finance); Shri Niladri Roy, Director (Technical/Operations); Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair, Director (Technical/Planning & Projects); Smt. Deepti Patel, Chief Vigilance Officer; and Smt. Kiran Jha, President, Shatakshi Mahila Mandal. Also present were the Chairpersons—Smt. Jirak Begum and Smt. Geetha Radhamani—along with other members of the Shatakshi Mahila Mandal, representatives of trade unions, members of the Welfare Board, HoDs, contractual workers and employees from various areas/units of ECL. This wide participation reflected the unity, discipline and collective commitment of the ECL family on this significant national occasion.
The programme commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, followed by the hoisting of the National Flag by Shri Satish Jha and the collective singing of the National Anthem. Thereafter, the Chief Guest took the salute and inspected the Guard of Honour, symbolising discipline and respect for the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Jha paid homage to the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifices of the nation’s freedom fighters. He reiterated ECL’s steadfast commitment to nation-building through sustained coal production, technological upgradation, and inclusive employee welfare. Highlighting the rapidly evolving energy landscape, changing regulatory frameworks, and increasing environmental expectations, he underscored the need for adaptability, innovation, and collective responsibility to address future challenges, while calling upon all to act in accordance with the values enshrined in the Constitution.
The programme also featured captivating cultural performances by children from nearby schools, as well as a demonstration by CISF showcasing the successful rescue of hostages from terrorists. On the occasion, the ECL management felicitated employees for their outstanding performance.
The Republic Day parade concluded with the dispersal of contingents, followed by the release of colourful balloons into the sky, symbolising the spirit of freedom and shared aspirations for progress and prosperity.
As part of the day’s commemorative events, Shri Satish Jha, CMD, ECL, inaugurated a newly constructed badminton court at Dishergarh Club, reaffirming the organisation’s focus on employee welfare and community engagement. The 77th Republic Day celebrations at ECL Headquarters thus reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the ideals of unity, service, and nation-building, alongside energy security and productivity.
The programme was conducted with excellence by the Security Department of ECL under the able guidance of Major Sharadendu Tiwari, Deputy General Manager/Head of Department (Security).

Zee Entertainment UK Launches Zee TV with Live German Subtitles on Samsung TV Plus Across DACH Markets

 Zee Entertainment UK Launches Flagship Zee TV With Live German Subtitles On Samsung TV Plus In Germany, Austria And Switzerland

London, Jan 27:   Zee Entertainment UK announces a landmark move in European broadcasting and streaming: the launch of flagship Zee TV as a live FAST channel on Samsung TV Plus across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This bold step expands Zee’s global footprint and also ensures viewers enjoy authentic, premium South Asian entertainment.

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For the first time ever, German audiences can stream Zee TV’s latest dramas, reality shows, and family entertainment with live 24/7 German subtitles, making content more accessible and inclusive than ever before. With German subtitles, this launch opens up a much larger audience base not just South Asians but also German-speaking viewers who can now enjoy Zee TV’s rich storytelling. This innovation sets a new benchmark for FAST streaming, combining cutting-edge translation technology with Zee’s flagship content.

Zee TV perfectly complements the existing popularity of Zee One and Zee5 in the region, both of which have built a super strong fan base among South Asians and local mainstream audiences in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, including high-earning hundreds of thousands Indian professionals who value quality content. Despite their willingness to pay for authentic entertainment, access has often been fragmented or limited. By offering live streaming directly to viewers, Zee is closing that gap and ensuring Gen 2 and Gen 3 of the diaspora can enjoy content without relying on parents for translation.

Samsung TV Plus is Samsung’s free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service, delivering hundreds of live channels, on-demand movies and shows across news, sports, entertainment and more, subscription-free. The streaming service is available on Samsung TVs, Galaxy, and Samsung Smart Monitor devices.

Amit Goenka, President, International and Digital Businesses, Zee Entertainment, said:

“Zee TV Germany is a flagship launch and a defining moment in our global journey to make entertainment truly borderless. This kind of move is not just unprecedented, it’s essential to meet viewers where they are. By going live on Samsung TV Plus with 24/7 German subtitles, we are breaking language barriers and setting a new international benchmark for FAST streaming. As a content and tech media powerhouse, we will continue to reach our audiences in every possible way, accessible, and innovative. This is about creating cultural bridges, leading the FAST revolution, and shaping the future of global entertainment with global partners in technology – Samsung.”

Benedict Frey, Country Lead DACH + BeNeLux at Samsung TV Plus said,

” We are excited to continue our partnership with Zee Entertainment to grow our content offering in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland with the launch of flagship Zee TV on Samsung TV Plus. This addition strengthens our existing portfolio of Zee channels already available on the platform and brings even more premium South Asian entertainment to our customers. Making this content accessible with live German subtitles is a meaningful step in serving diverse audiences across the region and enriching the viewing experience for all.”

Currently, Zee TV UK’s social media handles engage hundreds of thousands of followers and viewers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, reflecting the brand’s strong digital presence and loyal fan base. This launch will ignite conversations across Europe and beyond, driving engagement through authentic, legal content.

Viewers in Germany can now access Zee TV exclusively on Samsung TV Plus on channel number 4210. This partnership demonstrates the growing synergy between premium content providers and innovative streaming platforms, expanding the reach of quality international content. 

As Europe’s largest South Asian broadcaster and streaming powerhouse, Zee Entertainment UK delivers nine channels across linear TV and FAST platforms, complemented by Zee5’s cutting-edge digital experience. With this launch, Zee TV Germany becomes Zee’s ninth channel in Europe, further cementing the company’s leadership as the premier provider of South Asian entertainment across the continent. Zee Entertainment UK continues to strengthen its global footprint, meeting audiences where they are and fostering cross-cultural exchange through television and digital innovation.

Rohtak Royals Onboard Multiple Brands for Inaugural Kabaddi Champions League

Rohtak, Jan 27: Rohtak Royals, the franchise representing the city of Rohtak in the inaugural Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), have announced a strong line-up of sponsors for the upcoming season of the KCL. Adroit Sports LLP-owned Rohtak Royals franchisee, have roped in ixigo as the Official Travel Partner and John Players as the Official Loungewear Partner, while Campus Activewear, MuscleBlaze and Knack Pro Sports have come on board as the Official Footwear, Nutrition and Hydration Partners, respectively. The partnerships mark a significant step for the Rohtak Royals as they prepare for their first-ever campaign in the Kabaddi Champions League, underlining the growing commercial appeal of the franchise and the league.

Commenting on the sponsorship announcements, Aishwarya Bhargava, COO, Rohtak Royals, said, “We are delighted to welcome ixigo, John Players, Campus Shoes, MuscleBlaze and Knack Pro Sports to the Rohtak Royals family. These partnerships come at a crucial time as we gear up for the inaugural season of the Kabaddi Champions League. Each of these brands aligns perfectly with our vision of performance, professionalism, and fan engagement, and we look forward to building long-term associations with them.”

Head Coach Surender Nada added, “Strong support off the mat plays a vital role in a team’s success on the mat. Having reputed brands come on board gives our players added confidence and motivation as we prepare for a challenging season ahead. We are focused on putting up strong performances and representing Rohtak with pride.”

ixigo, India’s leading online travel platform, comes on board as the Official Travel Partner of Rohtak Royals. Known for its user-friendly interface and data-driven travel solutions, ixigo will support the team’s travel requirements through the season, ensuring seamless and efficient travel for players and support staff.

John Players, a renowned name in men’s fashion, joins the franchise as the Official Loungewear Partner. With a strong focus on comfort, style, and versatility, John Players’ association adds a touch of modern lifestyle appeal to the Rohtak Royals brand, catering to both athletes and fans alike.

Campus Activewear, one of India’s biggest domestic sports and athleisure lifestyle brands, has been named the Official Footwear Partner of Rohtak Royals. Campus offers a diverse product portfolio for the entire family. With the changing market dynamics, Campus has sustained its focus on product design and innovation by facilitating access to the latest global trends and styles through a fashion-forward approach.

MuscleBlaze, a pioneer in the sports nutrition space in India, has come on board as the Official Nutrition Partner. Trusted by athletes across disciplines, MuscleBlaze will play a key role in supporting the fitness, recovery, and overall performance needs of the Rohtak Royals squad during the season.

Knack Pro Sports, a performance-driven hydration drink from Knack Beverages, has joined Rohtak Royals as the Official Hydration Partner. Designed for athletes, its advanced formula with essential salts, minerals, BCAAs, glutamine, multi-vitamins, and prebiotics supports hydration and recovery. Guided by its philosophy of “Hydration Naye Bharat Ka,” Knack Pro Sports will play a key role in powering the Royals through the season.

Earlier, KMC Constructions Limited joined hands with Adroit Sports Ventures as the Strategic Partner for Rohtak Royals, combining infrastructure-led expertise with a focused sports development vision aligned with “Kheloge Kudoge Banoge Lajawaab.” Backed by Mr. Shashank Shekhar, Director, KMC Constructions Limited, Adroit Sports Ventures operates across talent identification, high-performance training, event management, and sports infrastructure, guided by Mr. Gajendra Sharma and led by Mrs. Aishwarya Bhargava, with the Rohtak Royals franchise jointly owned by Adroit Sports Ventures and Mr. Surender Malik.

Rohtak Royals will take on Faridabad Fighters in their second game of the inaugural Kabaddi Champions League on January 28, 2026. The Kabaddi Champions League is scheduled to be held from January 25 to February 7, featuring eight teams in the league’s first season.