Archives 2026

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited announces USFDA Final Approval for Difluprednate Ophthalmic Emulsion

 Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited (Alembic) today announced that it has received final approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) Difluprednate Ophthalmic Emulsion, 0.05%.

The approved ANDA is therapeutically equivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Durezol Ophthalmic Emulsion, 0.05%, of Sandoz Inc. (Sandoz).

Difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion is indicated for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery and also indicated for the treatment of endogenous anterior uveitis. Refer label for a detailed indication.

Alembic has a cumulative total of 233 ANDA approvals (213 final approvals and 20 tentative approvals) from USFDA.

Raymond Lifestyle Reports Resilient Q3 FY26 Performance with INR 1,883 Cr Total Income and Strong Domestic Growth

New Delhi, Jan 27: Raymond Lifestyle Limited today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended 31st December 2025, reporting Total Income of INR 1,883 Cr, a 5% YoY growth, driven by robust domestic demand across Branded Textile and Apparel segments. Despite strategic increases in marketing spend to enhance brand equity, the company achieved EBITDA of ₹271 Cr at a margin of 14.4%, reflecting operational efficiency, optimized product mix, and a rationalized retail footprint.

While domestic performance remained strong, international operations faced headwinds due to U.S. tariffs, affecting B2B exports and global competitiveness. Nevertheless, domestic growth effectively offset these challenges. Gautam Hari Singhania, Executive Chairman, stated, “Our Q3 performance remains resilient, underpinned by domestic growth in lifestyle categories and proactive strategies to navigate global economic uncertainties, ensuring consistent stakeholder value.”

Segmental Highlights (Q3 FY26 vs Q3 FY25):

  • Branded Textile: Revenue up 11% to ₹951 Cr; EBITDA rose 35% to ₹207 Cr, margin at 21.8% vs 18% due to strong volume growth and improved product mix.

  • Branded Apparel: Revenue at ₹482 Cr, up 5%; EBITDA at ₹35 Cr, margin 7.3% vs 9.6% impacted by higher marketing spend and new store ramp-up.

  • Garmenting: Revenue ₹258 Cr, down 17% YoY; EBITDA ₹11 Cr, margin 4.2% vs 7.8%, affected by US tariffs and scale deleverage.

  • High Value Cotton Shirting: Revenue ₹205 Cr, up 2%; EBITDA ₹23 Cr, margin 11.1% vs 10.3%, driven by improved product mix.

The company ended the quarter with 1,675 stores, up from 1,653, and continues to optimize its retail network to sustain long-term growth momentum.

Taj Agra Celebrates 77th Republic Day with Patriotic Fervour

Agra, India, Jan 27: Taj Agra commemorated the 77th Republic Day with a dignified observance that reflected the spirit of unity, pride, and patriotism.

Republic Day Celebration

The day commenced at the Main Porch with the national flag hoisting ceremony led by the CGM of the hotel, followed by a Republic Day parade by the security team, symbolising discipline and respect for the nation. Guests were welcomed with warm hospitality and the distribution of traditional sweets, adding to the festive spirit.

Enhancing the Republic Day experience, Taj Agra curated thoughtful tricolour-themed touches, including tricolour welcome drinks, themed mocktails and desserts, and in-room turndown amenities inspired by the national colours. Patriotic music across select dining venues during dinner further enriched the ambience.

The celebrations continued with a special Republic Day themed brunch at Palato, featuring Indian delicacies presented in tricolour hues, offering guests a memorable culinary experience rooted in Indian flavours and tradition.

Through thoughtful experiences and meaningful gestures, Taj Agra reaffirmed its commitment to India’s heritage, values, and timeless hospitality, making Republic Day a memorable occasion for both guests and associates.

Novotel Hyderabad & HICC Appoint Subin Venugopalan as Director of Food & Beverage

Hyderabad, Jan 27: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) have announced the appointment of Subin Venugopalan as Director of Food & Beverage. Bringing over a decade of experience in luxury hospitality and large-scale F&B operations, Subin previously served as Food & Beverage Manager at Sheraton Grand Whitefield, Bengaluru, leading diverse outlets, banqueting, and high-volume events with a focus on guest experience, operational excellence, and revenue growth.

Subin Venugopalan

In his new role, Subin will oversee the F&B portfolio across Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and HICC, including signature restaurants, bars, banqueting, conventions, and bespoke culinary experiences. His mandate includes enhancing culinary innovation, elevating service standards, driving sustainability, and reinforcing the destination’s position as one of India’s premier convention and events hubs.

Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, said,

“Subin’s deep expertise and passion for excellence make him a valuable addition to our leadership team, poised to strengthen our culinary and convention offerings.” Subin Venugopalan added, “I am excited to join Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and HICC and look forward to creating distinctive culinary journeys, elevating guest experiences, and contributing to the property’s growth.”

Lubrizol to Highlight Expansion of Medical Device Manufacturing Capabilities in India at World Health Expo, Dubai

Lubrizol will exhibit at WHX Dubai, February 9–12, 2026, Booth #S13.B112, highlighting its commitment to accelerating medical device innovation worldwide.

As part of its global expansion, Lubrizol is introducing new contract manufacturing capabilities in India, including a state-of-the-art medical manufacturing site in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, scheduled to open mid-2026. 

This new facility in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, will produce high-quality medical tubing for neurovascular and cardiovascular applications, including balloon catheters and other devices for minimally invasive procedures. Leveraging Lubrizol’s advanced medical-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and other biocompatible engineered polymers, the tubing produced is intended for minimally invasive device technologies, supporting applications in electrostimulation, cardiovascular, neurovascular, and beyond. Key capabilities include single and multi-lumen precision extrusion of TPU, Nylon, Pebax® and other engineered thermoplastics, tri layer tubing, balloon tubing, as well as braiding.

“We are strengthening our presence in India with strategic investments in local manufacturing, R&D, and technical capabilities,” said Mittal Shah, Business Head at Lubrizol. “These investments address our customers’ need for biocompatible, high-performance materials and advanced solutions that enable medical device innovation in India and globally.”

Visit Booth #S13.B112 at WHX Dubai to learn more about how Lubrizol can help you design, develop, and deliver next-generation medical devices. Contact us to discuss: Medical@Lubrizol.com.

Gurugram Set to Host Its First Comic Con India in March 2026

NODWIN Gaming announces Gurugram’s entry into Comic Con India’s multi-city circuit, inaugural edition set for March 14 – 15, 2026

Gurugram, Jan 27: NODWIN Gaming and Comic Con India have announced the city’s debut edition of Gurugram Comic Con, scheduled for March 14-15, 2026, at the Gymkhana Club Ground, Sector 29. Presented by Maruti Suzuki Arena and powered by Crunchyroll, the two-day festival promises a vibrant celebration of comics, anime, cosplay, gaming, and pop culture.

File image_Cosplayer  at Delhi Comic Con which was hosted from December 5th to 7th at NSIC

Gurugram’s thriving young, digitally connected population, with strong engagement in global and Indian pop culture, makes it a natural fit for its own edition. Fans no longer need to travel to nearby cities to celebrate their passions, as the event brings comics, gaming, cosplay, and creative communities directly to the city.

Shefali Johnson, CEO, Comic Con India, said,

“Bringing Comic Con to Gurugram is about creating a shared moment for the city’s thriving fandom—an event where fans, creators, and communities can come together without traveling elsewhere.” Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and MD, NODWIN Gaming, added, “Gurugram’s gaming and pop culture community is vibrant. Hosting Comic Con locally acknowledges this culture and provides a familiar, accessible space for fans to celebrate together.”

The event will feature iconic global names like DC and Marvel alongside India’s leading creators, elaborate cosplay showcases, gaming arenas by NODWIN Gaming, interactive zones by Maruti Suzuki Arena and Crunchyroll, and live music, dance, and comedy performances. Attendees can also engage in panels, signings, and meet-and-greet sessions with creators and celebrities.

Tickets for Gurugram Comic Con 2026 are available exclusively on the District app by Zomato.

How Technology is Reshaping Personal Wellness

Personal wellness is a holistic concept encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health. It goes beyond merely avoiding illness, representing a state of overall balance, fulfillment, and well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing wellness has become essential, with factors like stress management, nutrition, exercise, and emotional resilience playing critical roles in maintaining optimal health.

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In recent years, technology has become deeply integrated into personal wellness practices. Digital tools, mobile applications, and smart devices now offer innovative ways to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. From fitness trackers that monitor activity levels to mindfulness apps that enhance mental clarity, technology empowers individuals to take a proactive and informed approach to their health.

The Rise of Wearable Technology

Wearable devices have revolutionized personal wellness by making self-monitoring accessible and intuitive. Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health-monitoring gadgets allow users to track physiological metrics such as heart rate, steps, sleep patterns, and stress levels. This data equips individuals to make informed lifestyle choices and set personalized health goals.

Modern wearables go beyond basic step counting. Advanced devices now include GPS tracking for outdoor activities, blood oxygen monitoring, and heart rate variability analysis. Gamification and real-time feedback encourage active engagement, motivating users to maintain consistent wellness routines. Smartwatches further enhance personal wellness by integrating apps for exercise tracking, mindfulness exercises, hydration reminders, and medication alerts.

Health-monitoring devices like continuous glucose monitors and sleep trackers offer comprehensive insights over time, helping individuals manage potential health concerns proactively. By making wellness data accessible and actionable, wearable technology has fundamentally reshaped how individuals approach self-care.

Telehealth: Accessible Healthcare Anytime

Telehealth has transformed the delivery of healthcare, offering convenience and accessibility like never before. Through virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health records, individuals can access healthcare professionals without the constraints of travel or long waiting times.

Telehealth provides flexibility for patients and providers alike. Appointments can be scheduled at convenient times, and consultations occur from the comfort of home. This is especially valuable for those in remote areas or with mobility challenges. Real-time virtual access allows for quick assessments and treatment guidance, while online resources and support groups enhance health literacy and patient engagement.

Virtual consultations have proven effective in improving health outcomes by facilitating regular monitoring and follow-ups. As telehealth continues to evolve, it promises to make healthcare more personalized, timely, and convenient, further promoting overall wellness.

Mental Health and Digital Solutions

Technology has significantly advanced mental health care by improving accessibility and support. Mental health apps, teletherapy platforms, and online communities have emerged as critical resources for managing emotional well-being.

These applications offer features such as guided meditation, mood tracking, and educational resources, helping users cultivate healthy habits and mindfulness. Personalized algorithms tailor experiences to individual needs, improving engagement and effectiveness.

Teletherapy platforms enable individuals to work with licensed professionals via video, chat, or email. Receiving therapy in a familiar setting can enhance comfort and facilitate open communication. Online support communities further provide connection, understanding, and encouragement, helping to combat isolation and foster emotional resilience.

Through these innovations, technology is making mental health care more accessible, inclusive, and user-centered.

The Influence of Social Media on Wellness

Social media presents both opportunities and challenges for personal wellness. It fosters community support, connecting individuals on shared wellness journeys and providing motivation, accountability, and inspiration. Platforms such as Instagram and Facebook allow users to share experiences, tips, and wellness practices, which can encourage healthier habits.

However, social media also has drawbacks. Constant exposure to curated content can lead to unhealthy comparisons, low self-esteem, and pressure to meet idealized standards. Overuse may contribute to stress, anxiety, or disordered behaviors. Mindful engagement, balancing inspiration with self-awareness, is key to harnessing the positive effects of social media while mitigating its risks.

Personalized Health Through AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping personalized wellness by offering tailored insights and interventions. AI-powered applications analyze data such as activity levels, dietary habits, medical history, and mental health inputs to provide customized wellness recommendations.

AI enables personalized nutrition plans that align with individual goals and preferences. Fitness applications adapt workout routines based on real-time performance data, optimizing results and progression. AI also supports mental health through personalized interventions, chatbots, and mood tracking, providing accessible emotional support.

By leveraging data-driven insights, AI empowers individuals to take control of their wellness journeys, creating a more precise, proactive, and personalized approach to health.

Mindfulness and Meditation Apps

Digital mindfulness tools have made stress management and mental wellness more accessible than ever. Meditation apps offer guided sessions, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques for users of all experience levels. These apps allow integration into daily routines, even for individuals with busy schedules.

Features like personalized reminders, progress tracking, and community forums encourage consistent practice and engagement. By combining convenience, accessibility, and community support, meditation apps are transforming how individuals manage stress and cultivate mental clarity.

Balancing Technology for Optimal Wellness

While technology provides immense benefits, overuse can negatively impact physical and mental health. Constant notifications, social media pressures, and excessive screen time can lead to anxiety, distraction, and physical strain, commonly referred to as “technostress.”

To maintain balance, individuals should practice mindful technology use—setting boundaries, establishing device-free zones, and scheduling specific times for digital engagement. Wellness apps can also support constructive interaction with technology, helping users integrate beneficial practices without over-reliance. Regular self-assessment ensures that technology serves as a tool for well-being rather than a source of stress.

The Future of Wellness in a Tech-Driven World

The future of personal wellness will increasingly intertwine with advanced technologies. AI, machine learning, telehealth, and digital wellness tools are poised to create highly personalized, holistic approaches to health management.

AI-driven insights will allow individuals to monitor, analyze, and optimize their well-being proactively. Telehealth will continue to expand accessibility, offering convenient and timely healthcare solutions. Mindfulness, mental health apps, and community-driven platforms will ensure that emotional and psychological well-being remain central to personal wellness.

As technology continues to evolve, it promises a more informed, empowered, and holistic approach to health—enabling individuals to take charge of their wellness journeys and fostering a society that values both physical and mental well-being.

‘Victoria’ Tops Indian Showcase Awards 2026; ‘Shape of Momo’ Secures Second Best Film

Malayalam feature ‘Victoria’ wins Best Film at Indian Showcase Awards 2026 at GAFF; ‘Shape of Momo’ gets Second Best Film

Guwahati, Jan 27: The Indian Showcase Awards 2026, presented as part of the second Guwahati Asian Film Festival (GAFF), celebrated outstanding achievements in Indian and regional cinema, recognising filmmakers and artists whose work reflects cinematic excellence, diversity and storytelling depth.

GAFF Awards-2

In a glittering awards ceremony, the Best Film Award was conferred on the Malayalam feature ‘Victoria’, directed by Sivaranjini, for its compelling narrative and strong visual language. The film also earned additional recognition at GAFF with cinematographer Anand Ravi receiving the Jury Special Mention for his exceptional cinematography in the film.

The Second Best Film Award was awarded to the Nepali film ‘Shape of Momo’, directed by Tribeny Rai, applauded for its sensitive storytelling and fresh cinematic voice.

Highlighting regional cinema from the Northeast, the NE Spotlight Award went to the Assamese film ‘Noi Kotha’ (River Tales), directed by Dr Pankaj Borah, acknowledging its cultural relevance and strong narrative rooted in the region.

“The Indian Showcase Awards reflect the spirit of GAFF – celebrating bold storytelling, regional diversity and meaningful cinema. This year’s winners demonstrate how powerful narratives can emerge from different cultural landscapes while remaining universally resonant. We are proud to provide a platform where such voices are discovered, appreciated and encouraged,” said Monita Borgohain, Honorary Festival Director of GAFF.

The Indian Showcase Competition jury at GAFF 2026 was chaired by acclaimed filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli, with noted film personalities Utpal Borpujari and Anupama Bose serving as jury members.

The awards underline GAFF’s commitment to promoting diverse voices from across India and Asia, offering a platform for emerging and independent filmmakers alongside established talent.

The Guwahati Asian Film Festival (GAFF) 2026 also conferred its Lifetime Achievement Honour on veteran actor Bishnu Kharghoria (also known as Bishnu Kharghariya), in recognition of his extraordinary and enduring contribution to Indian cinema. Instituted as an annual honour, the award celebrates artists whose body of work has significantly shaped cinematic culture and inspired generations.

Organised by Trending Now Media, the second edition of the Guwahati Asian Film Festival held with the support of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The festival showcased 26 curated films from across 10 Asian countries, attracting strong participation from filmmakers, cinephiles and industry professionals.

GAFF has steadily positioned itself as an important cultural platform in Northeast India, fostering dialogue, creative exchange and regional cinematic growth.

Everyday Wardrobe Essentials for Effortless Styling

Building a versatile wardrobe starts with pieces that combine comfort, functionality, and timeless design. From relaxed outings to everyday routines, well-chosen staples make dressing effortless. Westside brings together styles that transition seamlessly across occasions while keeping comfort at the forefront.

Bombay Paisley Blue Printed Cotton A-Line Dress

An effortless option for everyday styling, this blue dress from Bombay Paisley stands out with its striking ethnic prints on an A-line silhouette. It is designed with a knot-design bust, a V-neck, a smocked back and puff sleeves highlighting floral embroidery. The cotton-rich fabric build offers a breathable feel for all-day comfort, offering a charming choice for casual outings and dayming time plans.

Bombay Paisley Green Embroidered Cotton-Blend Palazzos

Bombay Paisley brings ease to summer wardrobes with these green palazzos showcasing floral embroidery along the hem. The high-rise silhouette is fitted with an elastic on the back and comes with side pockets for functionality. Cut from cotton-blend fabric, the design stays comfortable through long daytime hours and casual outings.

Gia Dark Brown Asymmetrical Cotton Blouse

Effortless and contemporary, this dark brown blouse from Gia is cut in an asymmetrical silhouette that brings subtle movement to the design. Crafted from breathable cotton with a crinkle texture fabric, it features a shirt collar, a concealed button-up front and three-quarter sleeves for a balanced fit. Completed with a front pocket detail, this is an easy option to style with matching trousers or contrast separates for everyday wear.

Gia Dark Blue High-Rise Jeans

Upgrade your everyday denim with these dark blue jeans from Gia, designed in a straight silhouette for easy styling. Featuring an elasticated waistband with adjustable drawstrings, they are crafted from a cotton-rich fabric and finished with multiple pockets for a comfortable fit.

GRASP 2026 AI Hackathon Offers INR 2 Lakh Prize and Global Exposure in France

From Campus to Global Stage: Win INR 2 Lakh, National Recognition & a Trip to AiVancity, France at KRUU & ASME’s GRASP 2026 AI Hackathon

KRUU, in association with American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), has announced the launch of KRUU GRASP 2026, a national-level AI hackathon designed to recognise clear thinking, applied reasoning, and real-world problem solving among college students across India. Winners will receive cash prizes totaling INR 1.85 lakh, certificates jointly issued by Kruu, ASME, and partners, national-level recognition, structured expert feedback, internship opportunities, and potential global exposure, including opportunities with France-based AI institutions.

The hackathon is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students across engineering, science, healthcare, management, design, and interdisciplinary programs, with teams of three students each. Cross-disciplinary participation is strongly encouraged.

Students can apply across 4 strategic domains: AI for Social Good, AI for Education, AI for Medicine and Applied engineering.

Conceptualized and led by KRUU as the program architect, GRASP 2026 is delivered in collaboration with ASME, leveraging their global engineering excellence and professional adjudication. Supported by outreach partners CGSSC (Capital Goods & Strategic Goods & Strategic Skill Council) and Information and Communication Technology Academy of Kerala (ICTAK), the program combines KRUU’s AI-based evaluation systems with industry-aligned assessments.

Scheduled for February 6–8, 2026, GRASP departs from traditional speed-coding marathons. It introduces a thinking-first, worksheet-driven framework that mirrors professional R&D and global innovation ecosystems. Rather than focusing on interface polish, participants are judged on:

  • Problem Framing & Logic
  • Data Reasoning & Feasibility
  • Ethics & Execution Thinking

Participants will be evaluated through a multi-layered process, including AI-based scoring of reasoning worksheets, validation through working demos, and final adjudication by a joint jury comprising professors, industry experts, and ASME representatives.

With GRASP 2026, the organizers aim to address a growing gap in AI education — shifting the focus from tool usage to reasoning quality, responsible design, and decision-making clarity.

Important Dates & Program Milestones

  •       February 5, 2026 – Registration & National Launch

○        National announcement of GRASP 2026

○        Registrations open

○        Domains, challenges overview, and evaluation philosophy released

  •       February 6, 2026 – Kick-Off & Masterclass

○        9:00 AM: Public reveal of 12 national AI challenges

○        11:00 AM: Mandatory masterclass led by industry leaders

○        2:00 PM: Execution window opens

  •       February 6–7, 2026 – Deep Design & Submission Phase

○        System design sprint and reasoning refinement

○        Thinking audits and worksheet-based submissions

○        11:59 PM (Feb 7): Final submission deadline (Worksheets + working demo/prototype)

  •       February 8, 2026 – Evaluation, Jury Review & Awards

○        6:00 AM: AI-based national shortlisting

○        2:00 PM: Jury deep-dive with faculty, industry experts, and ASME representatives

○        8:00 PM: Grand finale and winners announcement