FPT Recognized in Everest Group Application Development Services for AI Applications PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025

Business Wire India

Global IT services provider FPT has been positioned as a Major Contender in the Everest Group Application Development Services for AI Applications PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260322476597/en/

 

 

 

The assessment evaluates 35 application development service providers on their ability to build and scale AI-powered enterprise applications, with emphasis on innovation, ecosystem partnerships, and AI talent readiness.

 

The recognition reflects FPT’s end-to-end AI capabilities, spanning strategy, solution design, application development, integration, and deployment of production-grade AI systems. At the center of this capability is IvyHub, FPT’s unified agentic AI platform built to help enterprises design, deploy, and govern AI agents at scale. IvyHub brings together conversational AI and workflow automation in one platform, so chatbots, virtual assistants, and voice agents can operate reliably across complex, multi-system environments, while enterprise AI agents can move beyond answering questions to executing tasks, coordinating processes, and supporting collaboration across teams.

 

 

Positioned for industries such as banking, finance, and retail, IvyHub is designed to deliver scalable, intelligent automation with strong enterprise integration. It can also be deployed natively on NVIDIA infrastructure, providing performance and compatibility advantages for organizations looking to operationalize AI agents across their ecosystems.

 

 

“AI is moving from copilots to agents that can execute workflows securely and reliably. Our focus is to help enterprises integrate AI agents into production with the right guardrails, deep domain context, and tight integration into core applications. FPT will continue investing in AI-powered tools and solutions, and responsible deployment frameworks to help organizations accelerate time to value and scale AI adoption with confidence,” said Dao Duy Cuong, FPT Software Executive Vice President and Chief Digital & Technology Officer, FPT Corporation.

 

 

AI remains central to FPT’s growth strategy. The company launched FleziPT, its AI-first platform designed to deliver end-to-end, customized AI-enabled transformation solutions, backed by an AI-augmented workforce. FPT also partners with NVIDIA to establish FPT AI Factories in Japan and Vietnam, which are recognized among the world’s top 40 fastest supercomputers in the latest TOP500 ranking. The company also collaborates with Mila Institute on AI research, and is a founding member of the AI Alliance led by IBM and Meta. These initiatives reinforce FPT’s leadership in AI development and support its broader goal of helping enterprises adopt and scale intelligent solutions.

 

 

About FPT Corporation

 

 

FPT Corporation (FPT) is a globally leading technology and IT services provider headquartered in Vietnam and operates in three core sectors: Technology, Telecommunications, and Education. Over more than three decades, FPT has consistently delivered impactful solutions to millions of individuals and tens of thousands of organizations worldwide. As an AI-first company, FPT is committed to elevating Vietnam’s position on the global tech map and delivering world-class AI-enabled solutions for global enterprises. FPT focuses on three critical transformations: Digital Transformation, Intelligence Transformation, and Green Transformation. In 2025, FPT reported a total revenue of USD 2.66 billion and a workforce of over 54,000 employees across its core businesses.

 

 

For more information about FPT’s global IT services, please visit https://fptsoftware.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Galderma Receives U.S. FDA Approval for Restylane® Contour™ for the Correction of Temple Hollowing

Business Wire India

  • The United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Restylane Contour* for the correction of temple hollowing, expanding its use beyond cheek augmentation and midface contour deficiencies to support overall facial balance and harmony1-3
  • The approval is based on clinical data showing Restylane Contour, part of Galderma’s versatile portfolio of hyaluronic acid injectables, delivers natural-looking results lasting for up to 18 months and high patient satisfaction1,2
  • This follows the recent U.S. FDA approval for Restylane Lyft™ for the enhancement of the chin profile and the debut of the ‘Wake Up to Restylane’ campaign in the U.S., highlighting Galderma’s commitment to continuing to evolve this versatile portfolio to meet emerging and diverse needs, including the desire for effortless, ‘wake‑up‑ready’ beauty4

 

Galderma (SIX: GALD), the pure-play dermatology category leader, today announced that the U.S. FDA has approved Restylane Contour for the correction of temple hollowing in patients over the age of 21.1,2 This builds on its previous approvals for cheek augmentation and midface contour deficiencies, helping injectors address volume loss across key structural areas.1-3

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260322108467/en/

 

 

With the broadest Injectable Aesthetics portfolio in the industry, this follows the recent U.S. approval of Restylane Lyft for augmentation of the chin region, adding to its indications to treat the midface, facial folds and wrinkles, back of hands, and the chin.4,5 Together, these approvals demonstrate Galderma’s ongoing commitment to evolving the versatile Restylane portfolio to deliver personalized, natural-looking outcomes that meet diverse patient needs.1,4,6,7

 

 

The volume of the temples can diminish with age, which can disrupt facial balance and harmony, and contribute to a tired, sunken, and aged appearance.3,8,9 These facial changes can be accelerated in people undergoing medication-driven weight loss, a phenomenon which has increased rapidly in recent years resulting in a growing area of aesthetic need.3,8,9 Galderma is spearheading efforts to address these concerns, including with this latest approval for Restylane Contour, which provides a new option for increasing volume in the temples to help restore balance for a more refreshed, youthful look.1-3 With a dual-layer patent-pending technique leveraging both needle and cannula, Restylane Contour enables healthcare professionals to provide precise, customized, and safe product placement in line with each patient’s aesthetic goals.1-3 Restylane Contour is powered by OBT™/XpresHAn™ technology, which integrates into the skin and balances support and flexibility, to provide long-lasting, natural-looking results that move with facial expressions.1-3,6

 

 

“Despite the temples playing an important role in maintaining a youthful, balanced appearance, they are often overlooked as an aesthetic treatment area. I’m pleased to have a new treatment option that I can recommend to my patients to help restore youthful proportions by effectively improving temple hollowing. This latest approval for Restylane Contour, offering dual-depth injection flexibility, will help me deliver harmonious, natural-looking results across the midface and temples that suit my patients’ unique features.”

MARK NESTOR, M.D., Ph.D.
BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST AND DERMATOLOGIC SURGEON**
UNITED STATES    

 

The approval is based on clinical results showing that Restylane Contour improved temple hollowing compared with no treatment at three months, with results lasting for up to 18 months, and high investigator and patient (clinical trial participant) satisfaction:1,2

 

  • Efficacy:
    • 91% of patients were considered treatment responders at three months and over 85% were considered treatment responders up to 18 months after initial treatment1,2
    • Clinical investigators rated 100% of patients as having improved from baseline at three months, with 98% at six months and 89% at 18 months1,2
  • Patient satisfaction:
    • Over 70% of patients felt they looked younger, less tired, and more refreshed 18 months after treatment, and 85% felt their temples looked natural at Month 181,2
    • Over 84% of patients were satisfied with their temples for a full 18 months as assessed by the FACE-Q patient-reported outcome tool1,2
    • 99% of investigators felt the results were natural looking three months after treatment1,2
  • Safety:
    • All treatment-related adverse events were mild to moderate, with no serious events1,2

 

 

 “This approval for Restylane Contour with an innovative injection technique is yet another demonstration of our ongoing commitment to ensuring our trusted products deliver what healthcare professionals need to meet diverse aesthetic goals. For example, as rates of medication-driven weight loss expand, we’re seeing greater need for treatments that can address associated facial volume changes. Restylane Contour for temples aligns with this rising demand, providing a natural and authentic way to restore harmony.”

BILL ANDRIOPOULOS, PH.D.
HEAD OF GLOBAL MEDICAL AFFAIRS
GALDERMA 

 

With over 30 years of innovation and more than 77 million treatments administered worldwide, Restylane remains highly relevant in addressing some of today’s most significant aesthetic trends and needs, from changes following medication-driven weight loss to growing concerns related to menopause and skin health.10-14 As patient expectations shift toward more effortless, always-on rejuvenation, Galderma’s new ‘Wake Up To Restylane’ campaign positions Restylane as an everyday natural beauty ally for the face and body, highlighting Galderma’s commitment to meeting emerging needs. Focused on the growing desire for natural, authentic results, the campaign underscores Restylane’s ability to deliver personalized outcomes that move naturally with expression, helping people look refreshed and feel confident in their skin.6,7,14,15

 

*Restylane Contour is known as Restylane Volyme™ in countries outside of the U.S.
**Spokesperson is a paid Galderma consultant

 

 

Important safety information
Restylane Contour is indicated for cheek augmentation and the correction of midface contour deficiencies in patients over the age of 21. Restylane Contour is also indicated for correction of temple hollowing in patients over the age of 21.

 

 

Restylane Contour contains traces of gram-positive bacterial protein and is contraindicated for patients with allergies to such material or for patients with severe allergies that have required in- hospital treatment. Restylane Contour should not be used by people with bleeding disorders, with hypersensitivity to amide-type local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, or by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

 

 

The most common side effects include bruising, redness, swelling, pain, tenderness, and itching at the injection site. Use at the site of skin sores, pimples, rashes, hives, cysts, or infection should be postponed until healing is complete. The safety or effectiveness of treatment in areas other than the cheek, midface or temple has not been established in controlled clinical studies.

 

 

Delayed-onset inflammation near the site of dermal filler injections is one of the known adverse events associated with dermal fillers, and cases have been reported to occur at the dermal filler treatment site following viral or bacterial illnesses or infections, vaccinations, or dental procedures. Typically, the reported inflammation was responsive to treatment or resolved on its own. Serious but rare side effects include delayed onset infections, recurrence of herpetic eruptions, superficial necrosis, and scarring at the injection site. Do not implant into blood vessels. Use with caution in patients recently treated with anticoagulant or platelet inhibitors to avoid bleeding and bruising.

 

 

Restylane Contour is only available through a licensed practitioner. Complete Instructions for Use are available at www.RestylaneUSA.com.

 

 

About the Restylane portfolio
Restylane hyaluronic acid injectables are designed differently to go beyond volumizing for natural-looking results.1,14,16 Our hyaluronic acid is exceptionally pure and our innovative manufacturing process preserves its biocompatibility while creating individual products designed for a specific purpose.17-19 Restylane’s unique technologies, NASHA HD™, NASHA™ and OBT™/XpresHAn™, are meaningfully designed to mimic the diverse range of facial structures and skin layers.5,14,16,20 With the highest G’ and highest flexibility, Restylane can provide structural support, natural expressions and a healthy glow.6,16,19-23 Trusted for almost three decades, our hyaluronic acid gels work in sync with your skin for natural looking results.14,24,25

 

 

About Galderma
Galderma (SIX: GALD) is the pure-play dermatology category leader, present in approximately 90 countries. We deliver an innovative, science-based portfolio of premium flagship brands and services that span the full spectrum of the fast-growing dermatology market through Injectable Aesthetics, Dermatological Skincare and Therapeutic Dermatology. Since our foundation in 1981, we have dedicated our focus and passion to the human body’s largest organ – the skin – meeting individual consumer and patient needs with superior outcomes in partnership with healthcare professionals. Because we understand that the skin we are in shapes our lives, we are advancing dermatology for every skin story. For more information: www.galderma.com.

 

 

References

 

 

  1. Restylane® Contour™. Instructions for use. Available online. Accessed March 2026
  2. Galderma Laboratories, L.P. Data on file. MA-63365 Study Report. 2025
  3. Galderma. Data on file. Restylane Contour temple investigator closeout meeting executive summary. 2025
  4. Restylane® Lyft™. Instructions for Use. Available online. Accessed March 2026
  5. Galderma Data on file. MA-56724. X-strain and G’ including Shaype
  6. Öhrlund Å, et al. Differentiation of NASHA and OBT hyaluronic acid gels according to strength, flexibility, and associated clinical significance. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(1):1332–1336
  7. Belmontesi M, et al. Injectable non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid as a skin quality booster: An expert panel consensus. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(1):83–88
  8. Humphrey CD & Lawrence AC. Implications of Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists for facial plastic surgeons. Facial Plast Surg. 2023;39:719- 72
  9. Qin J. Ozempic face: A new challenge for facial plastic surgeons. JPRAS. 2023;81:97-98
  10. Galderma. Data on file. MA-57232 [Updated]. 77 Million treated
  11. Galderma. Data on file. MA-55607. Restylane® 27 years data publications analysis
  12. Fabi SG, et al. The potential role of biostimulators/dermal fillers to address menopause-related skin conditions. Poster presented at IMCAS 2026; January 29-31, 2026; France
  13. Lorenc ZP, et al. Synergistic efficacy and safety of poly-L-lactic acid biostimulator and hyaluronic acid filler for facial fullness post weight loss due to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist medication. Presented at the ASDS 2025 Annual Meeting; November 13-16; United States
  14. Di Gregorio C, et al. 25+ years of experience with the Restylane portfolio of injectable HA fillers for facial aesthetic treatment. E-poster presented at AMWC; March 27-29, 2024; Monaco
  15. Galderma. Data on file. Global report: Aesthetics treatments and hyaluronic acid injectables. Consumers & HCPs. 2025
  16. Galderma. Data on file. MA-48544 Subject satisfaction (GAIS) – NASHA and OBT Fillers. 2021
  17. Edsman K, et al. Gel properties of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. Dermatol Surg. 2012;38:1170–1179.
  18. Galderma. Data on file. MA-58650. Degree of modification of HA fillers
  19. Kablik J, et al. Comparative physical properties of HA dermal fillers. Dermatol Surg. 2009; 35, 302–312
  20. Nikolis A, et al. The role of clinical examination in midface volume correction using hyaluronic acid fillers: should patients be stratified by skin thickness? Aesthet Surg J Open Forum. 2020;2(1):1–12
  21. Bromée T, et al. A new hyaluronic acid injectable, HASHA, sets new G-prime standards. Abstract presented at AMWC 2025; Mar 27-29, 2025; Monaco
  22. Narins RS, et al. Persistence of nasolabial fold correction with a HA dermal filler with retreatment: results of an 18-month extension study. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37: 644-650
  23. Talarico S, et al. High patient satisfaction of a HA filler producing enduring full-facial volume restoration: an 18-month open multicenter study. Dermatol Surg. 2015;41: 1361–1369
  24. Solish N, et al. Dynamics of HA fillers formulated to maintain natural facial expression. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;18(3): 738-746
  25. Philip-Dormston WG, Schuster B, and Podda M. Perceived naturalness of facial expression after HA filler injection in nasolabial folds and lower face. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(7): 1600-1606

 

 

 

 

ZFunds Strengthens Footprint in South India with Bengaluru Office

Business Wire India

ZFunds, one of India’s fastest-growing wealthtech platforms for mutual fund distributors (MFDs), has opened its Bengaluru office – its first in South India. The move signals a deliberate push into a region that is rapidly becoming central to India’s wealth creation story.

 

Headquartered in Gurgaon, ZFunds Bengaluru office will serve as a strategic hub to support the company’s growing base of MFD partners across Southern India, offering them deeper on-ground support, faster service, and closer engagement.

 

ZFunds works closely with mutual fund distributors to help them digitise their practices, improve operational efficiency, and compete effectively in an increasingly DIY-led investment landscape. With South India emerging as a key market for financial advisory and wealth creation, the Bengaluru expansion aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy.

 

Commenting on the expansion, Manish Kothari, CEO & Co-founder of ZFunds, said:

“South India has always been an important market for us, with a strong culture of financial planning and a evolving distributor ecosystem. Opening our Bengaluru office brings us closer to our MFD partners on the ground, allowing us to understand their needs better and support them more meaningfully.”

 

The new office will house teams across partner success, sales, and operations, and will play a key role in driving adoption of ZFunds’ platform among independent distributors in the region.

 

With this expansion, ZFunds continues to reinforce its commitment to empowering India’s MFD community with technology, insights, and hands-on support – helping them focus on what matters most: guiding families towards long-term financial security.

DNP Establishes Second Overseas R&D Base in IIT Hyderabad, India

Business Wire India

 

Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP, TOKYO:7912) will establish a new research and development base in Telangana, India, in April 2026, to advance and reinforce its global R&D strategy. The base will be our second overseas after the one established in the Netherlands in September 2025.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260303989310/en/

 

 

Aerial view of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad © Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad

Aerial view of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad © Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad

 

 

 

DNP will pursue joint research with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), a leading science and engineering university in India, in the mobility and medical healthcare fields, which are focus business areas for DNP. By establishing a base at the Technology Research Park (TRP), a corporate collaboration facility on the university campus, we aim to accelerate R&D outcomes and their social implementation by combining IITH’s strength in human resources and R&D with DNP’s technological capabilities.

 

 

 

Initial Priority Themes

 

 

  1. Mobility: Wireless power supply systems for EVs
    DNP currently possesses the world’s top global share for battery pouches (exterior materials) for EV lithium-ion batteries, and is also pursuing technology development related to next-generation mobility.
    At the new base, looking ahead to a future society of autonomous driving and advanced mobility, DNP will utilize its sheet-type coil technology as a foundation for advancing the design, development, and commercialization of wireless power supply systems for EVs jointly with IITH.
     
  2. Medical healthcare: Synthesis routes for APIs
    In the medical healthcare, through joint research with IITH, we will advance the development of synthesis routes for APIs. Leveraging the knowledge of precision organic chemical synthesis and process development amassed by DNP Fine Chemicals Utsunomiya Co., Ltd., a DNP Group company, DNP will advance development from synthesis route design through prototyping and evaluation to mass production.

    In the future, we aim to position India as one of our global development bases for APIs, commercialize R&D outcomes, and pursue sales in India and other markets around the world.

 

 

More Details

 

About DNP

 

 

DNP was established in 1876, and has become a leading global company that leverages print-based solutions to engineer fresh business opportunities while protecting the environment and creating a more vibrant world for all. We capitalize on core competencies in microfabrication and precision coating technology to provide products for the display, electronic devices, and optical film markets.

 

 

About IIT Hyderabad

 

 

IITH, established in 2008, has reached a respectable position in academics, research, technology development, and Start-ups in a short span of 17 years. In the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF-2025), IITH is ranked 7th among Engineering institutes (crossing a first-generation IIT this year), and is ranked 6th in Innovation, while it has maintained its rank within the top 10 Engineering Institutes ever since NIRF was launched. IITH has been striving for excellence with a motto of “Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity (IITH)”.
For more details, visit: https://www.iith.ac.in/
For queries: Email: pro@iith.ac.in

 

 

 

 

 

AU Small Finance Bank Strengthens Its Digital Banking with an Enhanced Savings Ecosystem

Business Wire India

AU Small Finance Bank is strengthening its digital‑first banking approach by refining the end‑to‑end experience across its Digital Savings Account portfolio. The enhanced ecosystem is designed to create a seamless, intuitive, and secure journey across multiple customer segments while aligning every digital touchpoint with clarity and ease of use.

A Connected Portfolio Tailored for Everyday Banking

AU Small Finance Bank integrated approach spans a diverse range of savings offerings, including:

  • AU Platinum Savings Account – crafted for customers seeking a premium day‑to‑day banking experience.
  • AU Savings Max Account – built around flexibility and everyday control.
  • AU Salary Account – designed for salaried professionals with a smooth salary credit and management journey.
  • AU Senior Savings Account – focused on simplified, stress‑free daily banking for seniors.
  • AU Minor/Junior Savings Account – intended to help families set up structured banking for young account holders, designed to teach financial responsibility.

These product experiences are unified by a consistent digital journey, simplified onboarding, and an interface that helps customers stay organised and in control of daily finances.

Smarter, Guided Decision Journeys

The bank’s ecosystem supports informed, self‑guided planning through tools like a savings account interest rate calculator, enabling users to estimate potential outcomes in a simple and transparent way, without complexity or jargon. The objective is to make fundamental banking concepts easier to understand for customers at different stages of their financial journey.

Mobile‑First Access and Everyday Convenience

With an emphasis on anytime, anywhere access, AU Small Finance Bank continues to elevate its mobile banking app experience with intuitive navigation and faster access to core services. From routine transactions to account servicing and personal organisation, the app is designed to help customers complete everyday tasks smoothly and confidently.

Responsible, Clarity‑First Communication

The bank remains focused on transparent communication around essentials, including savings account interest rates, prioritising customer education over promotional messaging. This clarity‑first approach underpins AU SFB broader intent to deepen trust and support better financial decisions across its customer base.

Consistency Across Touchpoints

The enhanced savings ecosystem is anchored in three pillars:

  1. Simplicity – clean, intuitive workflows that reduce friction.
  2. Accessibility – connected experiences across web and app.
  3. Reliability – a cohesive environment that helps customers manage routine banking with confidence.

By aligning products, journeys, and support within a unified framework, AU SFB is creating a savings environment that is practical, modern, and ready for evolving customer needs.

 

AU Small Finance Bank has always focused on building a digitally progressive banking ecosystem that blends intuitive design with dependable service. The bank’s vision is to make everyday banking simpler, more connected, and more accessible for customers across segments.

Zydus Launches Semaglutide Injection in an Innovative, Reusable Multi-Dose Pen Device in India

Business Wire India

  • The novel pen device will be available for patients in a prefilled cartridge administered using a patient-friendly reusable pen for which the company has exclusive rights
  • The drug will be launched under the brand names – SEMAGLYN TM, MASHEMA TM and ALTERME TM

Zydus Lifesciences Limited (including its subsidiaries, hereafter referred to as “Zydus”), an innovation-led global lifesciences company, has launched Semaglutide Injection under the brand names – SEMAGLYNTM, MASHEMATM and ALTERMETM, upon patent expiry in India. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) had earlier provided its approval for manufacturing and marketing Semaglutide injection for the treatment of both Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity indications.1

Unlike current treatment options, which often require patients to purchase multiple single-dose pens as they progressively titrate their dosage, Zydus offers an innovative reusable multi-dose novel pen device. This advancement will enable clinicians and patients to conveniently select and administer different dose strengths from a single pen, thereby improving adherence, enhancing convenience, and significantly lowering the overall therapy cost. Zydus’ Semaglutide injection will be available in a 15mg/3ml cartridge and will be manufactured at Zydus Biotech Park, Ahmedabad. The average monthly cost of the treatment will be approximately Rs. 2,200.

Diabetes and obesity are among India’s most serious health challenges today.2 Treatments based on GLP-1 have the potential to play an important role in addressing this growing public health concern. According to the International Diabetes Federation, 8.9 crore adults in India are living with diabetes, which is 10.5 per cent of the country’s adult population. At the same time, obesity is rising rapidly across age groups. Among adults, obesity prevalence has increased by 91 per cent in women, from 12.6 per cent to 24.0 per cent, and by 146 per cent in men, from 9.3 per cent to 22.9 per cent. These trends point to a widening health crisis in the country.

PepsiCo India Boosts Water Security, Restoring 1.48 Billion Litres Through Watershed and Community Initiatives

Business Wire India

  • Marks World Water Day with a continued focus on water stewardship through Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management and community-driven Water & WASH initiatives
  • Driven by its ‘Partnership of Progress’ philosophy, efforts span watershed management, groundwater recharge, and enhanced access to safe water

 

Marking World Water Day, PepsiCo India reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to advance water stewardship, announcing that it replenished 1.48 billion litres of water in 2025. This reflects the company’s continued focus on sustainable water resource management. To commemorate the day, the company also released a special video highlighting its Jal Jeevan Melas, bringing its water stewardship efforts to life through meaningful, on-ground impact.

 

Aligned with its ‘Partnership of Progress’ philosophy, PepsiCo India’s water stewardship approach focuses on improving water-use efficiency, replenishing local water sources, and enabling access to safe water for communities. The company’s efforts are driven through its Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) program and community-focused Safe Water Access & WASH initiatives, implemented in partnership with organizations such as Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI) and Pandit Jagat Ram Memorial FORCE Trust.

 

PepsiCo India’s SWRDM program adopts a science-led, watershed-based approach to groundwater recharge, with interventions across Channo (Punjab), Pune (Maharashtra), and Kosi (Uttar Pradesh). Through geo-hydrological planning and the creation of rainwater harvesting structures, the program aims to enhance water availability while supporting local ecosystems and agricultural communities. These efforts have also empowered over 89,000 community members by improving access to water, promoting sustainable agriculture, and strengthening climate-resilient livelihoods, enabled through SHG formation, improved farming practices, and drought mitigation initiatives across these regions.

 

Complementing these efforts, the company also continues to drive community safe water access and sanitation programs. In partnership with FORCE Trust, PepsiCo India has been working to strengthen rural water security through its Water & WASH initiatives. Building on the success of its work in Mathura, where safe water access and sanitation solutions have already transformed multiple villages, the program is being expanded to reach 100,000 residents across 30 villages, further amplifying its impact.

 

Speaking on this, Yashika Singh, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Sustainability Head, PepsiCo India and South Asia, said, “At PepsiCo India, water stewardship is central to how we approach sustainability, focused on using less, reusing more, and replenishing what we use. Across our operations, we are adopting innovative solutions to improve water efficiency, while working with communities to support groundwater recharge and sustainable water management. In 2025, we replenished 1.4 billion litres of water, recharging groundwater across key locations such as Channo, Kosi, and Pune, and positively impacting over 89,000 people. Through our Partnership of Progress approach, we are working closely with communities and local institutions to turn intent into impact. When solutions are built collaboratively, they become more sustainable, inclusive, and built to last.”

 

Through its integrated approach, PepsiCo India continues to advance water stewardship by combining infrastructure development, community engagement, and scientific water management practices. These efforts also contribute to improved livelihoods, agricultural resilience, and greater community participation in managing local water resources. The company remains committed to scaling its efforts through strong partnerships and innovative solutions, ensuring that water stewardship continues to drive meaningful impact for both people and the planet.

 

Watch the video here.

Suraasa and Empyrean School Launch India’s First Teacher Development Centre in Navi Mumbai

Business Wire India

Suraasa, a global teacher development ecosystem trusted by 650,000+ educators across 50+ countries and 15,000+ schools, and Empyrean School, ranked #1 in Navi Mumbai by the Times School Survey 2025, have jointly launched a Teacher Development Centre (TDC) on the school’s campus.

The centre was inaugurated this week in the presence of Empyrean School’s leadership team and teaching staff, alongside Suraasa’s leadership team. A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the opening, followed by addresses from leaders on both sides and a walkthrough of the program by Suraasa’s Head of Admissions.

The TDC is Suraasa’s blended learning model, combining online training with structured in-person experiences at a school campus. For years, Suraasa’s programs have trained teachers across 50+ countries through its online platform. The TDC adds a physical dimension to that: monthly collaborative sessions, classroom practice, and peer learning at a host school. Empyrean School is among the first in the country to host one.

Why this partnership exists

India’s teacher training infrastructure has not kept pace with how fast classrooms are changing. Most programs train teachers for the school system as it exists today. Suraasa and Empyrean School believe that isn’t enough. Teachers need skills that match where education is headed, not where it’s been.

Suraasa brings the system. It operates across the entire teacher development value chain: internationally accredited training programs, an AI-led learning platform, certified mentorship, placement services, and career progression pathways. Its flagship program, the Professional Graduate Certificate in Teaching & Learning (PgCTL), trains teachers through live virtual classes delivered by educators based in the US, UK, UAE, and Lebanon. On completion, teachers earn two globally recognized credentials: the PgCTL and the UK Level 6 Diploma in Teaching, regulated by Ofqual. Suraasa has also been sought by governments and education boards to help shape teacher qualification policy at a national level.

Empyrean School brings the campus, the classroom access, and the learning culture. Known for its inquiry-based model, Cambridge and CBSE pathways from Nursery to Grade 12, and a philosophy where learning and wellbeing go hand in hand, the school offers exactly the kind of environment where teacher training should happen: inside a working school, surrounded by real students and real practice.

Together, the two organizations will run a 12-month blended program that combines online learning, live international classes, and mandatory monthly in-person sessions at Empyrean’s campus. Teachers enrolled at the TDC will also have the opportunity to observe and deliver classes at the school.

The program is open to all qualified teachers

The TDC is not limited to Empyrean’s own staff. Qualified teachers from any school in Navi Mumbai and surrounding areas can enroll. The goal is to create a shared hub for teacher growth across the city that raises the bar for the entire teaching community.

Soumyabrata Mukherjee, Principal of Empyrean School, spoke about what the collaboration means for the school and for education more broadly.

“We are very happy that we have this humble opportunity to partner with Suraasa to host a Teacher Development Centre at Empyrean School. It is a big milestone for all of us here at school. To redefine education, we have to reimagine and redefine the role of the teacher. Through this collaboration, we aim to take our people through quality standards and benchmarks, give them training, allow them to learn from people, and have amazing experiences in our classrooms, which will help us fast-track our journey to becoming a developed nation.”

Soumyabrata Mukherjee, Principal, Empyrean School

“At Suraasa, we focus on teacher development and derive our energy from educators who are self-motivated and eager to grow on their own. The decision to host a Teacher Development Center (TDC) at Empyrean shows that it is an institution that deeply cares about the happiness of the teacher community, providing them with tangible opportunities for professional development. We congratulate the school’s leadership for their vision in establishing their school as a place for teachers to grow, develop, and learn alongside one another.”

Loulou Hsaiky, Head of Learning & Academics, Suraasa

Enrollments now open

The Empyrean School TDC is now accepting enrollments for its first cohort, which starts on 11 April 2026. Interested teachers can learn more and apply at https://suraasa.co/t57N before the enrollments close on 31 March 2026.

Timex Elevates the Runway: Mysore Fashion Week Lights Up the City with Leading Designers and Celebrity Showstoppers

Business Wire India

Mysore witnessed three days of high fashion, celebrity glamour and design excellence as Timex Presents Mysore Fashion Week (MFW) Season 8 concluded in spectacular style from March 13 to 15, 2026, at the picturesque Silent Shores Resort, Spa & Convention Centre.

Timex helmed the fashion week as the Title Sponsor, celebrating the synergy between fashion and watchmaking. The runway came alive with over 15 designers showcasing their latest collections across three days, where Timex watches were reimagined beyond the wrist, incorporated into the styling as distinctive design elements within the garments and accessories.

“We are delighted to come on board as the Title Sponsor of Mysore Fashion Week Season 8 and place Timex at the center of a platform that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship. This association reflects our commitment to being an active part of India’s evolving fashion narrative. Today, a watch is more than an accessory; it defines personal style, and Timex is proud to see watches take their place as bold style statements. Through this partnership, we aim to inspire confident self‑expression by seamlessly blending timeless design with contemporary aesthetics,” said Mr. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex Group India.

Day One concluded with the grand finale collaboration between Timex and designer Gagan Kumar, who presented a dreamy palette of white and ivory accented with pearls. The collection blended Indo-western ensembles with contemporary silhouettes, exuding elegance. Timex watches were seamlessly woven into the styling, emerging as a striking design element on the runway. Actor Archana Gautam brought star power to the showcase as the showstopper, elevating the finale with her commanding runway presence.

The mood witnessed a bold shift on Day Two with the Rehan Shah x Timex collaboration, unveiling an edgy and contemporary collection featuring sharp cuts, statement jumpsuits and modern silhouettes. Actor Ritu Shivpuri lit up the runway as the showstopper, adding a dramatic flourish to the high-energy showcase, with a striking showcase of Timex watches integrated into the styling narrative.

Day Three celebrated tailored sophistication and heritage craftsmanship. Bengaluru-based designer Pankaj Soni presented Timex watches alongside a sharply tailored collection of suits and blazers in tones of black, beige and white, highlighting understated sophistication and modern tailoring. Jayanthi Ballal showcased an opulent mood board of luxurious silks and elegant sarees reflecting the richness of Indian craftsmanship. Actor Aditi Pohankar took center stage as the showstopper, embodying the timeless elegance of the collection. Each look was thoughtfully styled with Timex watches, reinforcing the timepieces as a central style statement on the runway.

Speaking about the success of the event, Jayanthi Ballal, Founder of Mysore Fashion Week, said, “Mysore Fashion Week continues to grow as a vibrant platform that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and emerging talent. Season 8 brought together designers with unique voices, inspiring collections, and incredible energy from the audience. It is rewarding to see Mysore steadily evolving into a destination for fashion, design, and cultural expression.”

The event featured collection showcase from other celebrated designers, including Rosy Ahluwalia, Riyaz Ganji, Aynaa Worrld, Suresh Menon, Bhargavi Kunam, and Kingshuk Bhadhuri alongside showcases by emerging design talent. Over the three days, the runway was further elevated by the presence of celebrity showstoppers, including Actors Mannara Chopra, Anupriya Goenka, Vatsal Sheth, and Ishita Dutta, creating a visually captivating fashion spectacle for guests, designers, and industry insiders alike.

With its seamless blend of couture, celebrity presence and brand experiences, Timex Presents Mysore Fashion Week Season 8 once again celebrated creativity while spotlighting the city of Mysore, with Timex timepieces ensuring that every moment on the runway was truly timeless.

PUMA Reveals Its Most Powerful International Football Kit Lineup yet on the Streets of New York City

Business Wire India

Reinforcing its status as a leading force in football kits at this summer’s competition, PUMA unveiled jerseys for 11 nations, including the most prominent African partner federations of any brand in the tournament, in a community-first celebration of football, music, and culture in New York City

 

Global sports company PUMA unveiled its new national team kits for 11 nations with a street-level event at Domino Square in New York City, that placed football, music, food, and culture at the center stage in a celebration of the game. Rather than launching in a stadium setting or in a cinematic brand film, PUMA chose to reveal the kits in play, worn first by local community players from each nation on the streets of New York.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260320641449/en/

 

Reinforcing its status as a leading force in football kits at this summer’s competition, PUMA unveiled jerseys for 11 nations, including the most prominent African partner federations of any brand in the tournament, in a community-first celebration of football, music, and culture in New York City.

Reinforcing its status as a leading force in football kits at this summer’s competition, PUMA unveiled jerseys for 11 nations, including the most prominent African partner federations of any brand in the tournament, in a community-first celebration of football, music, and culture in New York City.

 

Four continents are united under 11 nations: Portugal, Morocco, Ghana, Paraguay, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Czech Republic, Switzerland, New Zealand, Austria, and Egypt. This confirms PUMA’s position as a leading force in international football, dressing close to a quarter of all nations heading into this summer’s biggest competition, with the most prominent African teams of any kit brand in the sport.

 

“We wanted to connect with the fan communities by showing up in the places and moments that matter to them. This event was built on that belief, offering local football players the chance to experience these fresh new kits in action before anyone else: on their own city pitch,”said Nadia Kokni, PUMA Vice President Global Brand Marketing.

The event, centered around a series of custom-designed trucks, each represented one of PUMA’s 11 nations through visual identity, local food, music, and cultural artefacts — several brought to life by artists from the communities themselves. Fans could see and wear the national jerseys before anyone else, with the kits revealed for the first time on the city’s pitch through a structured 4v4 tournament, facilitated by NYC Footy.

 

Football legends Ricardo Quaresma (Portugal), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), and El Hadji Diouf (Senegal) were present as representatives of their nations, connecting generations of the sport.

 

A live music corner powered the pulse of the event, soundtracking the action from start to finish, featuring a DJ lineup representing several of the nations and a live performance by acclaimed Ghanaian artist Black Sherif. Social media streamer Fanum and the Daily Paper collective (Jefferson & Abde) also joined as special guests.

 

“The culture of Football is what drives us, and this collection reflects that commitment. Equipping nations across four continents, with close to a quarter of all nations heading into this summer’s biggest competition wearing PUMA, we’re showing up at football’s biggest moment, reinforcing PUMA’s position as one of the leading brands in international football. Combining cutting-edge performance innovation with cultural identity, this collection unites technical excellence and the spirit that brings nations together on the world’s biggest stage,” said Dominique Gathier, PUMA Vice President Teamsport.

 

With up to 11 nations potentially wearing PUMA on the international stage this summer, the company goes into this summer’s tournament strongly. PUMA’s African partner federations, featuring Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, and Egypt, is the most prominent in the upcoming tournament, whilst Portugal, widely considered to have one of its best teams ever assembled, is amongst the favourite European nations.

 

PUMA has dressed football legends including Pelé, Eusébio, Maradona, Cruyff, and Matthäus, and that rich archive heritage is woven into the DNA of every kit unveiled at the event.

 

The 2026 collection will be available from March 24th and this event marks the first public look at PUMA’s full national team kit range, featuring the brand’s innovative ULTRAWEAVE technology and dryCELL sweat-wicking fabric across all jerseys. Replica jerseys are produced using PUMA’s RE:FIBRE initiative, reflecting the brand’s commitment to responsible product innovation.

 

Full product and innovation details will be available in a dedicated product press release on March 24th.

 

Visual content from the event: LINK

For more information, please visit: https://mediahub.puma.com

 

PUMA

 

PUMA is one of the world’s leading sports brands, designing, developing, and selling footwear, apparel and accessories. Founded in 1948, PUMA helps the world’s best athletes and teams perform at their best with its innovative products. Known for its iconic cat logo and the Formstrip, the company offers performance products in categories such as Football, Running and Training. Its Sportstyle collections are rooted in sports and inspire consumers by celebrating sports culture. With its long history and strong heritage, PUMA is proud of having one of the strongest archives in the industry, with many iconic products such as the Suede and the Speedcat. The PUMA Group owns the brands PUMA, Cobra Golf and stichd. The company distributes its products in over 120 countries, employs more than 20,000 people and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany. For more information, please visit https://about.puma.com.

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260320641449/en/