Chandrasekar Radhakrishnan joins Amara Raja Energy & Mobility as Chief Business Officer Automotive

Hyderabad, 28th October, 2025: Amara Raja Energy and Mobility Limited (ARE&M), a comprehensive solutions provider in the Energy & Mobility space, (BSE: 500008 & NSE Code: ARE&M) and the makers of Amaron, Powerzone, and Quanta batteries has today announced the appointment of Chandrasekar Radhakrishnan as CBO  Automotive, for India and SAARC region. He will be responsible for driving the Company’s marketing strategy in the region, strengthening brand positioning, and enabling business growth through integrated marketing initiatives.

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Chandrasekar brings extensive experience in Sales, Marketing, and P&L leadership in the FMCG, Telecom and EV sectors. He joins ARE&M from Hero MotoCorp where he was the Head of Business Growth  Emerging Mobility. He has also held senior leadership roles at Coca Cola India, Nestle, and Bharti Airtel amongst others.

Speaking on the appointment, Harshavardhana Gourineni, Executive Director – Automotive and Industrial, ARE&M, said, “We are delighted to welcome Chandru to Amara Raja at this pivotal moment in our transformation journey. His proven ability to build strong consumer brands, deliver P&L leadership, and drive commercial excellence brings exactly the future-focused leadership we need. We are confident he will strengthen Amaron’s market leadership and accelerate growth across our battery and lubricants portfolio, while championing the next era of innovation for our customers and partners.”

It is both a privilege and a responsibility to join Amara Raja at such an exciting time for the Group. I look forward to cementing Amaron’s leadership position in the automotive ecosystem, delivering disciplined growth, and contributing meaningfully to the Group’s bold vision for the future.” Added Chandrasekar Radhakrishnan (Chandru), Chief Business Officer – Automotive (Domestic & SAARC), ARE&M on his new role.

Santhathi IVF Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Fertility and IVF Center in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, 28th October, 2025: Santhathi IVF, a leading name in reproductive medicine and women’s healthcare, inaugurated its new state-of-the-art fertility and IVF center in Naagarabhaavi, Bengaluru, today.

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The grand inauguration was graced by Shri Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament, Bengaluru South; Shri M. Krishnappa, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Vijayanagar Constituency; and Shri Priya Krishna, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Govindraj Nagar Constituency.

Special invitees Smt. Anita B. Haddannavar, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, South-West Division, Bengaluru City, and Dr. Soumyalatha S. K., IPS, DCP CAR HQS, Bengaluru City, were also present on the occasion.

The center, founded by Dr. Ashwini S (DGO, DNB, FIRM), offers comprehensive fertility and reproductive care under one roof. Equipped with cutting edge technology, modern IVF laboratories, and a team of highly qualified specialists, Santhathi IVF aims to make advanced fertility care more accessible to couples aspiring for parenthood.

Santhathi IVF is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients struggling with infertility and other reproductive endocrinology problems. The center offers a full range of infertility diagnostic testing and assisted reproductive technologies, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Its fertility experts and staff are committed to delivering the highest standards of care with compassion and empathy.

Adopting a personalized and evidence-based approach, Santhathi IVF ensures both comprehensive and consistent planning toward the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic and fertility issues. Each patient receives individualized attention and scientifically guided treatment, reflecting the center’s commitment to combining medical excellence with emotional support.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ashwini S, founder said, “At Santhathi, our mission is to bring hope to couples facing fertility challenges by combining world-class clinical expertise with compassionate care. We believe that every couple deserves the chance to experience the joy of parenthood.”

With this new center, Santhathi IVF reinforces its vision of being a trusted, patient-centered institution advancing reproductive health through innovation, accessibility, and care.

ISACA Report: Most Indian Digital Trust Experts Fear AI-Driven Cyber Threats and Deepfakes in 2026

Two-Thirds of Indian Digital Trust Professionals Expect AI Driven Cyber Threats and Deepfakes Will Keep Them Up at Night in 2026 , Finds ISACA Research 

Bangalore, India, 28th October 2025: ISACA, the leading global professional association dedicated to advancing careers in digital trust, unveiled its 2026 Tech Trends & Priorities Pulse Poll highlighting the top challenges and focus areas shaping the technology and cybersecurity landscape for the year ahead. 

ISACA logo

As per the report, AI-driven cyber threats and deepfakes (67 percent) have emerged as the top concerns that digital trust professionals in India expect will keep them up at night in 2026. This is followed by thoughts of irreparable harm caused by failure to detect/respond to a breach (44 percent) and keeping pace with technological change (39 percent). 

AI looming large

The report, based on survey responses from 2,963 professionals globally across cybersecurity, IT audit, governance, risk, and compliance functions, including  212 respondents from India, also reveals that 50 percent of Indian tech pros consider keeping up with the pace of AI-driven change as their biggest professional concern going into 2026, followed by increasing complexity of threats at 31 percent, and talent retention and hiring at 26 percent. AI and machine learning (65 percent) and generative AI and large language models (LLMs) (56 percent) also dominate the top technology trends or priorities that respondents from India anticipate will impact their work in 2026, along with data privacy and sovereignty (43 percent) and cloud security (35 percent). 

However, only 22 percent of respondents indicate that their organizations are very prepared to manage the risks associated with generative AI solutions in the coming year, with 43 percent feeling somewhat prepared and 25 percent saying they are not very or not at all  prepared. 

AI is also expected to dominate cybersecurity threats, with AI-driven social engineering (75 percent) topping the list, followed by ransomware and extortion attacks (52 percent), and insider threats – intentional or accidental (38 percent). 

“While it can sometimes feel daunting, it is imperative to approach AI not merely as a challenge but as an opportunity to harness its potential for positive impact,” says Pablo Ballarin, founder, Balusian S.L., and member of the ISACA Emerging Trends Working Group. “By enhancing our expertise and strategies, digital trust professionals can ensure resilience, uphold the integrity of digital systems, and foster trust across all digital platforms.”

Navigating a complex regulatory environment, hiring challenges 

With regulatory complexity and global compliance risks (36 percent) also expected to keep digital trust professionals in India up at night next year, professionals are bracing for a more demanding compliance environment. Yet, 89 percent of Indian respondents believe cyber-related regulations will drive business growth, and 91 percent say they will strengthen digital trust over the next few years.

Regulatory compliance (79 percent), business continuity and resilience (74 percent), and workforce upskilling in data security (68 percent) are the top three focus areas for Indian organizations for 2026. On the talent front, 72 percent of Indian respondents say their organization will hire for digital trust roles such as audit, risk and cybersecurity in the coming year, but 46 percent of that group expect they will have difficulty filling those roles with qualified candidates.

Taking steps to prepare for 2026

ISACA came away with five key takeaways from the pulse poll findings that inform how organizations can prepare for the coming year:

  1. Establish robust AI governance and risk frameworks.
  2. Accelerate workforce upskilling and talent pipeline development and invest in continuous learning, certifications and internal mobility.
  3. Modernize legacy systems and infrastructure to reduce vulnerabilities and improve agility.
  4. Strengthen cyber resilience and business continuity planning by developing and regularly testing incident response plans, ransomware recovery strategies, and cross-functional crisis management protocols. 
  5. Prepare for regulatory complexity and international compliance requirements; monitor regulatory changes; engage with expert communities; and invest in compliance tools and frameworks.

“Digital trust professionals face rapidly evolving technology, threats, and regulations that require them to constantly examine how to keep pace, stay relevant and protect their organizations,” says Chetan Anand, AVP, Information Security, and CISO, Profinch Solutions, and member of the ISACA Emerging Trends Working Group. “But the end of the year can serve as an important point in time for them to stop, reassess priorities, resources and strategies; create a plan for advancing their skills and knowledge; and make changes to set themselves and their organizations up for success in the coming year.”

Additional resources

ISACA offers a range of AI resources, including the Artificial Intelligence Audit Toolkit and several courses—including AI Fundamentals, AI Governance, and AI Threat Landscape. ISACA has also recently released its new Advanced in AI Audit (AAIA) certification and Advanced in AI Security Management (AAISM) certification. 

Showcasing Cutting-Edge Solutions in Glass, Façades, and Aluminium Extrusions

SHOWCASING THE LATEST PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS IN GLASS PROCESSING, FAÇADES, FENESTRATION, AND ALUMINIUM EXTRUSIONS

India, 28th October, 2025: The most trusted companies from the glass processing technologies, façades, fenestration and aluminium extrusions field will come together once again at India’s leading platform – the Zak Expo on Glass, Doors, Windows, Façades & Aluminium Extrusions. The event is scheduled from 4th to 7th December 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO) in Mumbai.

expo picWith rising demand for sustainability, precision, and quality in both commercial and residential construction, the importance of the building envelope has never been greater. The event will demonstrate the latest practical innovations suited for the Indian market aiming to transforming modern building façade/fenestration design, performance, and aesthetics.

If you are an architect, interior designer, builder, developer, contractor, glass processor, or building industry professional, visiting this expo will offer valuable insights into how new products, materials, and innovations are shaping the modern façade and fenestration façade development in India.

Uniting Glass, Façade, Fenestration & Aluminium Extrusion Excellence Under One Roof

Zak Glass Technology Expo: The 22nd International Trade Fair on Glass Processing, Products & Technologies will highlight how the latest technologies can make architectural glass more efficient and sustainable. Organized in association with the Federation of Safety Glass (FOSG), this edition focuses on the latest technologies that are available to produce and process glass along with other value-added solution for the same.

Zak Doors & Windows Expo: The 21st International Trade Fair on Doors, Windows and Façades will spotlight system innovations in uPVC & Aluminium, railings, cladding, automation, hardware, software, accessories and related solutions that are key to ensure better smart, safe & sustainable building envelopes. 

Zak Aluminium Extrusions Expo: The 16th International Trade Fair on Aluminium Extrusion Technologies and Products, will showcase the versatility of aluminium across multiple sectors but mainly focusing on architectural applications. The expo will present the latest extruded solutions along with surface finishing options and other related products 

Driving Collaboration and Industry Growth

Speaking about the upcoming edition, Mr. Zakir AhmedChairman, Zak Exhibitions & Conferences, said: “Our exhibitions are not just showcases — they are platforms that bring together knowledge, technology, and opportunity. Despite global market challenges, the Indian construction industry is showing robust growth due to strong domestic demand and young and growing population. Hence glass, façade & fenestration industries are continuing to invest in innovation and modernization. We are proud to facilitate this momentum by connecting thought leaders, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the globe.” 

The 2025 edition will feature live demonstrationsmock-up displays, and product launches, enabling hands-on learning and meaningful dialogue between professionals. Together, the three expos are expected to attract over 35,000 visitors and 400+ exhibitors from 20+ countries, reaffirming the event’s position as a leading force in the Indian built environment sector.

Prayatna Marks World OT Day with Free Screening & Therapy for Children with ADHD, Autism

Prayatna Celebrates World OT Day with Free One-Month Screening and Treatment for Children with ADHD and Autism

Kochi, 28th October, 2025: The Prayatna Centre for Child Development, a leading multidisciplinary center in Kochi specializing in services for children, celebrated World Occupational Therapy Day by launching one-month free screening and treatment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and developmental delays . The free screening camp was formally inaugurated by UMA Thomas, Thrikkakara MLA.  

IMG-Prayatna Celebrates World OT Day with Free One-Month Screening and Treatment for Children with ADHD and Autism

“The initiatives undertaken by Prayatna are making a significant difference in the lives of children with disabilities,” said MLA Uma Thomas. “These efforts are bringing not only the children but also their families back to life. Therapeutic support is equally essential to enable people to lead a normal life. Occupational Therapy can play a pivotal role in achieving this, and it is important that greater public awareness of this field needs to reach the public”. She added. 

The screenings and treatments will be available both online and offline, emphasizing the importance of early occupational therapy (OT) assessments. Following the online consultation, parents can visit the Prayatna Centre for a detailed in-person evaluation and treatments. 

This initiative is designed to equip parents with practical techniques they can use at home to support their child’s development” said Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry, Founder of Prayatna and All India Occupational Therapists’ Association Honorary Secretary. 

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in enhancing the physical, cognitive, and sensory skills of individuals facing developmental and learning difficulties. Early assessment is crucial because it helps identify challenges in motor skills, sensory processing, or other areas that can impact daily life. When detected early, personalized interventions can significantly improve outcomes, allowing children to overcome barriers to independence and enhancing their quality of life. 

As part of the celebration the centre also hosted a seminar on the importance of Occupational Therapy for children with Autism and ADHD and the Occupational Therapists at Prayatna were honored by MLA by presenting Mementos for their contributions.

Rashmi Group to Establish 2.8 MTPA Integrated Steel Plant and 400 MW Captive Power Plant in Purulia

Kolkata, 28 October, 2025: Rashmi Group has announced plans to set up a 2.8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) Integrated Steel Plant along with a 400 MW Captive Power Plant in Purulia, West Bengal. The state government has allotted 938 acres of land for the project and awarded it with “Ultra Mega Project” status, which has enabled Group’s expansion to receive fast-tracked approvals.

The proposed expansion is part of the Group’s broader growth strategy and reaffirms its role as one of India’s fastest-growing industrial conglomerates. With a diversified presence across iron and steel, cement, power, ferro alloys and mining, Rashmi Group has positioned itself as one of the largest private investors in West Bengal.

From its beginnings as a small-scale unit, the Group has invested over ₹20,000 crore to date in the state, with an additional ₹10,000 crore committed by 2030. These investments are directed at building West Bengal into a major manufacturing and export hub. The company reported a gross turnover of ₹41,393 crore and a net worth of ₹26,791 crore, supported by a low-leverage financial model that emphasises reinvestment of profits, conservative debt management and value-based capital expenditure.

Rashmi Group currently operates 8.3 MTPA of integrated iron and steel capacity, excluding 0.2 MTPA of aluminium. Its portfolio includes pellets, sinter, pig iron, sponge iron, ductile iron pipes, billets, aluminium, TMT bars and wire rods. It also runs a 1.9 MTPA cement manufacturing facility and generates 1050 MW of power through captive plants and independent power projects. In addition, it is actively developing five coal mine blocks in West Bengal and Jharkhand.

The Group has become India’s largest and the world’s second-largest manufacturer of ductile iron pipes. This milestone has been achieved through technological innovation, backward integration and the establishment of robust marketing networks. Rashmi Group’s ISO-certified systems, in-house R&D labs and stringent quality controls have enabled consistent product quality across its portfolio. Its port-based logistics and export presence in China and Southeast Asia reflect its growing global competitiveness.

The company’s industrial presence in Kharagpur, Jhargram and other districts has created direct and indirect employment for more than 50,000 people. Upcoming greenfield and brownfield projects, including the Purulia steel plant and mining operations, are expected to generate an additional 40,000 employment (direct and indirect) in the coming years.

The West Bengal Government has recognised Rashmi Group’s contribution by awarding it the “Ultra Mega Project” status, a move that underscores the trust placed in the Group’s ability to deliver long-term industrial growth. The company holds a CRISIL AA/stable rating and has received industry recognition through awards such as the Times Bengal Award, Excellence in Steel & Cement Infrastructure, and the ASSOCHAM Business Excellence Award. Rashmi Group is also a founding member of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), reflecting its focus on sustainable practices.

Beyond industrial growth, the Group has invested in workforce welfare by providing housing, healthcare, education and transport facilities. It also promotes skill development in underserved regions, encouraging entrepreneurship and creating an ancillary ecosystem that strengthens local economies.

Its social initiatives include running mobile medical units, supporting rural electrification and sanitation, building school infrastructure, providing scholarships and digital learning kits, and sponsoring cultural programmes, heritage restoration projects and rural sports.

Environmental responsibility is central to Rashmi Group’s operations. The company employs zero-liquid discharge systems, dust suppression technology and complies with state and central pollution control board norms. Afforestation and biodiversity projects have also been undertaken around its mining areas.

The Group has also embraced Industry 4.0 technologies across its operations. Smart factories use AI-driven logistics, IoT-enabled machinery and smart energy management systems, placing West Bengal at the forefront of advanced manufacturing practices in India.

Looking ahead, Rashmi Group plans to expand capacity in ductile iron pipes, steel and ferro alloys while strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia, GCC countries and Africa. It is also exploring downstream engineering solutions and strategic partnerships that align with its global ambitions.

“Rashmi Group’s growth is deeply aligned with the West Bengal Government’s vision for inclusive, industrial-led development. Our investments reflect not only confidence in the state’s potential but also our shared commitment to making Bengal a leading economic powerhouse of the East. Every investment, every job created and every innovation introduced is rooted in our commitment to the state’s economic and social progress,” said L. B. Chourasia, Joint President of Rashmi Group.

Under the leadership of Chairman, Sajjan Kumar Patwari and Directors Sunil Kumar Patwari, Sanjib Kumar Patwari and Sanjay Kumar Patwari, the Group has grown steadily while maintaining a focus on corporate governance and transparency. It has instituted independent directors, real-time MIS systems, ERP integration and strong audit mechanisms to minimise financial risk and ensure accountability.

By combining financial discipline, technological innovation and a focus on sustainability, Rashmi Group has reinforced its role as a key driver of West Bengal’s industrial development. The Purulia project marks a significant step in its long-term plan to position the state as a hub of modern, globally competitive manufacturing.

Taxbit Appoints Former OECD Advisor Colby Mangels as Global Head of Government Solutions

NEW YORK, 28th October, 2025Taxbit, the leading tax and accounting compliance platform for digital assets, today announced the appointment of Colby Mangels as Global Head of Government Solutions. Mangels joins from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), where he was a key architect of the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), the first international standard for tax transparency in the crypto sector, now adopted by over 70 countries.

A U.S.-licensed lawyer, Mangels brings extensive experience in tax policy, anti-money laundering (AML), and financial regulation. At the OECD, he helped develop the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) global AML standards for virtual assets. Prior to that, he served at the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), specializing in federal banking and fintech oversight.

A U.S.-licensed lawyer, Mangels brings extensive experience in tax policy, anti-money laundering (AML), and financial regulation. At the OECD, he played a leading role in developing the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) and the most recent amendments to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), as well as in leading peer reviews of jurisdictions’ compliance with these international transparency standards. He also contributed to the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) global AML standards for virtual assets. Prior to the OECD, Mangels served at the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), specializing in federal banking and fintech oversight.

In his new role, Mangels will leverage his expertise to promote industry growth and innovation through engagement with governments, regulators, and multilateral organizations on the practical implementation of digital asset reporting systems. His team will focus on bridging policy and technology to help both public and private sector stakeholders operationalize international transparency standards.

In his new role, Mangels will leverage this multilateral experience to promote industry growth and innovation through engagement with governments, regulators, and international organizations on the practical implementation of digital asset reporting and transparency systems. His team will focus on bridging policy and technology to help both public and private sector stakeholders operationalize global standards effectively.

“Taxbit sits at the intersection of innovation and compliance at a pivotal moment for global digital asset regulation,” said Mangels, “Having spent years helping governments design the standards that underpin transparency in this sector, I’m excited to now help implement them, ensuring they’re applied effectively, consistently, and fairly.”

Mangels’ appointment reflects Taxbit’s commitment to promoting innovation while strengthening global collaboration between regulators and industry through technology-driven solutions. His multilateral background positions him to advance Taxbit’s mission of enabling digital assets for the global economy through scalable automation of tax compliance for enterprises and governments.

Colby’s practical experience shaping international crypto policy and financial regulation brings an unmatched perspective to our mission,” said  Lindsey Argalas, CEO at Taxbit. “As digital asset regulation comes into effect worldwide, his leadership will help governments and enterprises move from regulatory intent to practical, tech-enabled compliance.”

Bessemer Venture Partners unveils AI Services Roadmap – projects IT sector to reach $400B by 2030

Bangalore, 28th Oct 2025: Bessemer Venture Partners revealed an AI services roadmap today – their thesis on how AI native companies will disrupt India’s $264 billion IT services sector.

India’s IT services exports form the backbone of global technology and is a powerhouse driving digital transformation worldwide. Today, the industry stands at a generational crossroads. As large language models (LLMs) and AI disrupt traditional, people-heavy outsourcing methods, both global enterprises and nimble startups are disrupting traditional delivery models.

Before the current wave of AI-native disruption, India’s IT services giants had perfected a powerful operating playbook-built on three pillars:

(a) a vast and skilled talent pool,

(b) strong cost arbitrage, and

(c) the ‘follow-the-sun delivery’ model.

Despite fears of displacement after the rise of ChatGPT and other LLMs, Indian IT services revenues and margins remain resilient. Enterprises still rely on these firms for complex projects, where embedded engineers and subject matter experts provide business-specific context that AI alone can’t capture.

Yet, seamless transformation into an AI native world is hindered by billable-hour models, standardized entry-level workforces, and low R&D spend (under 2% versus over 20% for global product firms). In essence, the growth of large, traditional IT and outsourcing firms remains driven by headcount rather than productivity gains.

AI-first startups and platforms are already proving their ability to deliver outcomes that are better, faster, and more cost-efficient. They benefit from:

Exceptionally skilled founding teams with deep domain expertise
AI-driven, product/platform-first mindsets
Rapid time-to-value and measurable ROI
Usage or outcome-based pricing

Bessemer has identified three fast-emerging categories of AI-first challengers poised to disrupt existing service models:

Pure software plays: intelligent platforms that fully automate tasks end-to-end-delivering high-speed, scalable outputs with minimal human input. Eg: Graph AI , Leena AI
AI enabled services – hybrid models blend AI automation with human‑in‑the‑loop (HITL) oversight. Example: Crescendo and Shopdeck
Services for AI – These firms supply the data, model operations infrastructure, and evaluation capabilities needed to build net new AI solutions. Eg: Scale, Turing

Bessemer highlights seven key factors that determine a challenger’s ability to truly disrupt incumbents: team quality, platform stickiness, time-to-value, margins, distribution, pricing strategy, and market focus.

India’s IT services industry is projected to exceed $400B by 2030, as AI fundamentally reshapes how enterprises source and deliver technology. While AI-driven efficiencies will compress pricing in the short term, the exponential growth in AI capabilities will dramatically expand both the propensity and ability of global enterprises to outsource complex workflows. This next wave of outsourcing will fuel the sector’s growth, with AI-first products and startups poised to capture outsized value by delivering smarter, faster, and more adaptive solutions.

Why Industries Need Smarter Moisture Control to avoid environmental risks

 By: Atul Bansal, Chief Operating Officer, Technical Drying Services    

India, 29th October , 2025: With the onset of monsoon, several parts of the country fear flooding, with heavy downpours causing the steep surge in water level beyond the danger mark. Amidst the monsoon mayhem, there is an underlying risk of extensive damage to the lives and property of people. The deluge can account for water accumulation, giving rise to the issue of water damage in the form of contamination primarily triggered by proliferation of mould and bacteria.

It can have a far-reaching impact on factories and industrial setups, considering that they are inherently complex structures and are involved in performing some of the most critical operations. The presence of chemicals and other hazardous materials can severely induce a lot of health hazards for the people. Apart from this, with the facilities engulfed in water, it can damage the structural integrity of the building, raising a lot of safety concerns. Furthermore, it can go a long way in rotting the wood, crumbling the drywalls, triggering corrosion of metals, etc., thereby accounting for lasting effects on the materials. Weakening the building structure immensely, there is a tendency of the facility to collapse in extreme cases.

Understanding the intensity of water damage, it is advisable to devise an emergency plan beforehand to implement effective and timely crisis management at the time of need. Here, performing Water Damage Restoration (WDR) comes with a lot of potential to mitigate microbial threats and check the degradation of water into more dangerous categories at the same time.

The restoration comes to the rescue in reinstating the water-damaged assets to their original state while preserving the structural integrity of the space in the process. It prevents the secondary damage comprising of mould growth and structural weakening and significantly amplifies the resilience of the property. It provides a handy solution for checking the unnecessary repair and replacement cost by protecting the expensive electromechanical equipment and other machinery from destruction. WDR, being responsible for performing structural repairs and driving aesthetic restoration, proactively augments the value of the industrial space and plays a pivotal role in curtailing the insurance premiums of the facility.

However, while implementing water damage restoration, it is important to employ the preventive measure immediately within the first 24 to 48 hours. Failing to do so, and any delay in taking action, can culminate in the worsening of the condition. In addition to this, the entire restoration process should be conducted under the vigilance of highly trained professionals who showcase immense proficiency and the necessary skill set to operate the highly advanced and sophisticated technology and equipment. Water damage restoration services can be used for turbine generators and control panels equipped with advanced technology.” As a result, the machinery and equipment are crucial for shrinking the downtime of the facility and, likewise, ensure the business is back on track in no time.

Delving deep into the process, the water-damaged assets are majorly preserved, protected, and safeguarded by employing drying of structures to remove the moisture trapped within them. It is a very crucial aspect for facilitating evaporation with the help of air movement and dehumidification. Desiccant Dehumidification forms the base of the entire WDR process for driving the exhaustion and elimination of moisture from air externally. It exercises precision in humidity control that focuses on accelerating the drying process aimed at resisting any unforeseen condition.

During the process, in case there is a combination of wet and moist conditions, it can take more time to restore the facility and also amplify the growth of bacteria and fungi, which are the source of numerous health issues. Alternatively, maintaining an environment of high temperature marked with low relative humidity (RH) catalyzes the evaporation process as warm air facilitates more moisture-holding capacity in contrast to the cold air. Failing to attain the ideal conditions gives rise to a lot of safety concerns where there are high chances of RH reaching its saturation point, achieving 100% capacity. Inducing condensation on the surface, it triggers a host of problems in the form of corrosion, decay, and various forms of deterioration inflicted by moisture.

With instances of flooding becoming prevalent in recent years, it is only wise to have a WDR plan in place across the industrial setups. Considering the flood fury can arise from multiple reasons apart from heavy rainfall, such as poor drainage systems of the facility, plumbing failures, sewage system malfunctioning, to name a few factors, it is essential to preserve the integrity of the structure. Here, WDR leads the forefront in protecting the infrastructure of factories and industrial spaces by restoring the water-damaged assets and reducing the risk of accidents at the same time.  

Accor Expands in Asia with New Flagship Openings and Signings in 2025

India, 27th October,  2025: Accor, a global leader in hospitality, continues its strategic growth in Asia with a robust line up of regional hotel signings and openings year-to-date. With a diverse pipeline of more than 230 hotels* representing close to 60,000 keys in development in Asia, the growth activity reinforces Accor’s ability to capture expansion opportunities in both established and emerging markets.
Accor is firmly rooted in Asia, and the region stands as a key pillar of the Group’s development strategy. This includes ongoing expansion of its diverse brand portfolio, while redefining hospitality experiences to align with evolving ways of travelling, working, and living.
Growth has been particularly strong across the Group’s premium, midscale, and economy (PM&E) brands, a key pillar of Accor’s expansion strategy in Asia and supported by the region’s diverse demand and evolving travel patterns. Conversion-friendly midscale brands such as Mercure and Handwritten Collection are also driving momentum, while the economy portfolio expands through ibis and ibis Styles, delivering affordability and comfort. The premium segment is gaining pace with Pullman, Mövenpick, Grand Mercure and Swissôtel extending their reach into high-growth destinations.
NEW PROJECTS SIGNED
In 2025, this strength translated into a diverse wave of PM&E signings. Indonesia led with seven signings, highlighted by Swissôtel Bali Nusa Dua, while Thailand and Laos added five, including Mercure’s debut in Phuket, the debut of Handwritten Collection in Bangkok, and a new ibis hotel in Vientiane. The Philippines secured four signings including Mercure Mactan Cebu and ibis Styles Clark, reflecting rising demand in tier-2 markets. India expanded further into emerging cities with three signings, from Pullman Dehradun Jollygrant to Novotel and ibis in Indore. Vietnam reached a milestone with the signing of its largest Mövenpick, a 1,000-key resort in Danang, and Japan will expand into Hiroshima with a co-branded Mercure Tokyu Stay Hiroshima.
On the lifestyle front, the Group has also signed some dynamic projects. Ennismore, which represents Accor’s presence in this division, announced the signing of the first Rixos all-inclusive resort in Asia, with the property expected to debut on Vietnam’s Hon Thom Island, offering over 1,300 rooms and extensive facilities in a luxurious setting. Additionally, Mondrian Maldives was signed in March and is set to open in 2026 on Kuredhivaru Island, featuring 105 villas with private pools and immersive cultural experiences.  Mama Shelter Bangkok Platinum was recently announced, with the brand bringing its vibrant, community-minded hospitality to the Thai capital.
Within the luxury division, the signing of Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences, a landmark luxury development in Northern Vietnam, was also inked by the Group. This project will be a combination of 176 rooms and 436 residences and is expected to open in 2030.
STANDOUT OPENINGS AND UPCOMING DEBUTS
Accor’s footprint in Asia was further cemented in 2025 with the openings of several hotels. Under the Group’s PM&E brands, Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel in Vietnam and Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole introduced the refreshed Pullman experience to Asia. Swissôtel Living Jakarta Mega Kuningan marked the debut of Swissôtel Living experience in the region, catering to the rising demand for extended stays. TRIBE Phuket Patong saw the introduction of the bold brand to the world-famous tropical destination, and Novotel New Delhi City Centre opened in India’s capital, adding modern hospitality to a vibrant urban hub.
More hotel openings scheduled before year-end include Grand Mercure Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang, Novotel Bali Ubud Resort, and Hotel Waterloo Singapore – Handwritten Collection.
Accor is also significantly expanding its luxury and lifestyle portfolio across Asia, marked by several prestigious openings and upcoming developments. Raffles Sentosa Singapore recently opened as one of the most desirable resort destinations in Asia, while Raffles Tokyo, opening in 2028 within the city’s World Trade Center, promises legendary service and panoramic views.
Fairmont has followed suit with the recently opened Fairmont Mumbai, blending art deco splendour with contemporary luxury, and the new Fairmont Tokyo, which arrived in July 2025 offering serene elegance with sweeping city views. Fairmont properties on the horizon include Fairmont Hanoi and Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit, both slated for 2026, celebrating local heritage and modern design.
Sofitel Diamond Crown Hai Phong in Vietnam, slated to open in 2026, will be the first internationally acclaimed hotel in the Diamond Crown Hai Phong complex. Located atop a 45-story tower, it will introduce Sofitel’s signature French elegance and state-of-the-art facilities, including 231 rooms and 180 serviced apartments.
Another key highlight comes from Ennismore and the lifestyle collective’s Mama Shelter brand, which launched its first Asian property in Singapore in September 2025.
Andrew Langdon, Accor’s Chief Development Officer, Asia, commented: “We are confident of another record year of signings, marking an incredible third consecutive year of growth for Accor in Asia. Our momentum in 2025 reflects both the resilience of Asia’s travel and hospitality industry and the opportunities created by shifting market dynamics. By harnessing the strength of our diverse brand portfolio and deepening trusted partnerships with owners, we are well-positioned to continue to lead the next era of hospitality in the region. Our strategy is to deliver brands and concepts that resonate with today’s travellers, create long-term value for our partners, and set new standards for innovation and excellence across Asia.”