Pop-Culture universe expands, Comic Con India expands to Navi Mumbai debuting on November 28 and 29

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjZrVhXaNjmz3hhQY19PQpKc1chQvVM8iPiVYMI-3Jbmt-8ZBWxTBbEda0dnrOqJ20s819OOOENhNODv10ff_vJ3qvQibBGn7Fctadiu-6p1IY3PfolrrQp7EmPcA7lpMkjzQBFZFmMO1KN-JALH0vMbaBzTQLqdD5AFJXxw0NeSlhzi0hrllEPcnA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjZrVhXaNjmz3hhQY19PQpKc1chQvVM8iPiVYMI-3Jbmt-8ZBWxTBbEda0dnrOqJ20s819OOOENhNODv10ff_vJ3qvQibBGn7Fctadiu-6p1IY3PfolrrQp7EmPcA7lpMkjzQBFZFmMO1KN-JALH0vMbaBzTQLqdD5AFJXxw0NeSlhzi0hrllEPcnA" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div><b>Navi Mumbai:</b> India’s pop-culture festival is all set to take over new territories, as Comic Con expands its fandom by announcing its first ever Navi Mumbai edition scheduled for November 28 and 29 at CIDCO Exhibition & Convention Centre, Navi Mumbai. With Navi Mumbai added to the calendar, Comic Con will bring its signature mix of comics, anime, gaming, cosplay, pop culture and fandom experiences to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.</div><div><br></div><div>The announcement comes shortly after Visakhapatnam (Vizag) was announced as the first city to kick off the new 2026–27 season, reinforcing NODWIN Gaming’s vision of taking Comic Con to newer audiences and emerging markets across the country. With Navi Mumbai joining the calendar, the expansion is taking the convention beyond its traditional city footprint.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Shefali Johnson, CEO, Comic Con India</b>, said, “Navi Mumbai is evolving rapidly. We see constant efforts by the Maharashtra government to strengthen the city's infrastructure, new industries setting up, young professionals moving in and a new generation of audiences shaping its culture. We have seen fans and cosplayers from Navi Mumbai travelling to Mumbai to be part of Comic Con, which tells us a strong and passionate community already exists in the city. Bringing Comic Con to Navi Mumbai is our way of meeting that audience where they are and giving them a platform of their own.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming</b>, said, “The city represents a new generation of urban India. It is where people from diverse backgrounds and cultures have come together to build new communities while embracing new experiences and ideas. We have seen the city’s cosplay and pop-culture community steadily grow, with local initiatives, community groups and regional events creating stronger connections with the wider Mumbai metropolitan region. Comic Con’s entry into Navi Mumbai can bring this growing fandom community together, connecting young professionals, students, creators and pop-culture enthusiasts through their shared love for stories, characters and self-expression. We look forward to seeing Navi Mumbai bring its own energy to Comic Con, from fans expressing themselves and adding their unique perspectives, making this a celebration distinctly of Navi Mumbai.”</div><div><br></div><div>The debut edition will bring Navi Mumbai an action-packed celebration of pop culture, with something for every kind of fan. From high-energy live performances and gaming zones to creator interactions, cosplay showcases, exclusive merchandise and immersive brand experiences, fans can expect a full weekend of entertainment, fandom and experiences. Navi Mumbai’s growing young and cosmopolitan audience makes it a natural fit for Comic Con India, offering fans an exciting new destination to enjoy a fun-filled weekend of pop culture, entertainment and shared experiences with friends and loved ones.</div>

Pop-Culture universe expands, Comic Con India expands to Navi Mumbai debuting on November 28 and 29

Navi Mumbai: India’s pop-culture festival is all set to take over new territories, as Comic Con expands its fandom by announcin...

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Amazon and FluxGen to deploy water conservation project at National Chemical Laboratory campus in Pune

<div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig4sxu2PkXn1mPqkTkTjZkXZ-F_7XKp-BXBngk46q77sbIlomle5B55xsIkzgVT17pluxHOp5GFAVUc6jouR0_qYeFs4c2_S3rjKFFa7i7eqVCTBpBx4Ei1WarB3L8r4UJPwMw770R2wdviICqxEC_4MFlTwAHjeBay9Uq7q4XSKijgDsmyovfKupP" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig4sxu2PkXn1mPqkTkTjZkXZ-F_7XKp-BXBngk46q77sbIlomle5B55xsIkzgVT17pluxHOp5GFAVUc6jouR0_qYeFs4c2_S3rjKFFa7i7eqVCTBpBx4Ei1WarB3L8r4UJPwMw770R2wdviICqxEC_4MFlTwAHjeBay9Uq7q4XSKijgDsmyovfKupP" width="400"> </a> </div></b></div><div><b>Amazon and FluxGen to deploy water conservation project at National Chemical Laboratory campus in Pune, replenishing 178 million litres annually</b></div><div><br></div><div>·  Integrated water management system to be deployed across the 380-acre National Chemical Laboratory (NCL)campus</div><div><br></div><div>·   Smart sensors and efficient systems to reduce consumption, recycle wastewater and recharge groundwater</div><div><br></div><div>·   Amazon recently achieved water positive status in India, returning more water than it uses across all direct operations</div><div><br></div><div><b>Pune: Amazon India</b> announced a collaboration with <b>FluxGen</b>, a water technology start-up, to deploy an integrated water conservation project at the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) research campus in Pune. The project, spanning the 380-acre campus, is expected to replenish an estimated 178 million litres of water annually, once completed by end of this year. It will use smart sensors and efficient fixtures including aerators and waterless urinals to reduce consumption, capture and recycle wastewater, and recharge groundwater across the campus. The collaboration is part of Amazon’s wider water stewardship efforts in India, where the company recently achieved its goal of becoming water positive—returning 120% of the water it uses across its direct operations to communities and the environment—ahead of its 2027 target.</div><div>"This collaboration with FluxGen reflects our deep commitment to water stewardship in India. The NCL campus in Pune is an ideal setting to demonstrate how technology-driven interventions can make a real difference at scale. By investing in integrated water management solutions here, we’re not just addressing local water challenges—we’re building a model that can be replicated across offices, commercial spaces, schools, hospitals, multi-unit housing, and institutional campuses nationwide. At Amazon, we believe responsible water management is essential, and collaborations like this one help us deliver both immediate community impact and long-term environmental benefits," said <b>Karan Chugh, Director, Operations Amazon India.</b></div><div>"At NCL, we have always believed that scientific research must translate into real-world impact. This collaboration with Amazon and FluxGen allows us to transform our campus into a model for sustainable water management. The integrated approach—combining smart sensors, rainwater harvesting and recycling, and groundwater recharge—aligns perfectly with our vision of advancing science for societal benefit. We look forward to this project serving as a benchmark for research institutions across the country," said <b>Kanika Goel, Controller of Administration, National Chemical Laboratory.</b></div><div><span>“What makes this project unique is the integration of various water technologies in one location to create a comprehensive water management system," said <b>Ganesh Shankar, CEO and Founder of FluxGen.</b> "The NCL campus will become a living demonstration of how research institutions can operate more sustainably while contributing to local water security."</span></div><div>The project also encompasses an experiential learning initiative, scheduled to launch in 2027, aimed at building awareness of water conservation among young people. The programme will include quarterly student visits to the NCL campus for hands-on exposure to water management technologies, the establishment of water conservation clubs in local schools, and the introduction of “HydroQuest”—an educational board game that teaches water conservation principles through interactive gameplay.</div><div>Recently, <b>Amazon</b> announced that it has become water positive in India, meaning the company now returns more water to communities than it uses across its direct operations, including corporate offices, data centres, and fulfilment centres across the country. Amazon had set a goal to become water positive in India by 2027 and has now achieved it ahead of time. The company has committed more than Rs 62 crore towards water stewardship initiatives across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi NCR, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. These projects are expected to replenish more than 4 billion litres of water annually through watershed restoration, lake rejuvenation, efficient irrigation, groundwater recharge, and water quality improvement initiatives tailored to local needs.</div>

Amazon and FluxGen to deploy water conservation project at National Chemical Laboratory campus in Pune

Amazon and FluxGen to deploy water conservation project at National Chemical Laboratory campus in Pune, replenishing 178 million...

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CM Fadnavis and Pankaja Munde gave a message of environmental conservation by making the idol themselves

<div><div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh53Mas1NZb8JuNolmLyR8Kukb_W0nnk4kRcm0qjdwnOu3zC3nABGxf-x6MjpQURvO4Vn0Ib362HfjeN9P5RgezZ_9MgBtGqzdK46Dtk6LATuxbiriSV-_uKoVHJVjgw044OLRXbmHCosv5tDOnkwcuWCPFQFSfB9PdZZ8peTYFjSAIbWsxWtLH2b1O"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh53Mas1NZb8JuNolmLyR8Kukb_W0nnk4kRcm0qjdwnOu3zC3nABGxf-x6MjpQURvO4Vn0Ib362HfjeN9P5RgezZ_9MgBtGqzdK46Dtk6LATuxbiriSV-_uKoVHJVjgw044OLRXbmHCosv5tDOnkwcuWCPFQFSfB9PdZZ8peTYFjSAIbWsxWtLH2b1O" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>Maharashtra enters Guinness Book of World Records for making eco-friendly Ganesh idols, More than 10,000 students simultaneously made Ganesh idols out of clay</div><div><br></div><div><span><b>Navi Mumbai: </b>Devotion and environmental conservation are more important than the size of the Ganesh idol. It is the responsibility of each of us to celebrate a festival like Ganeshotsav, which is a festival of faith and preserves cultural heritage, in an environmentally friendly manner, and students should take the message of an environmentally friendly Ganeshotsav to every household through practical actions, <b>Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</b> said. 'Environmental Maha Ganesh Murti Workshop 2026' was organized at CIDCO Exhibition and Convention Centre, Vashi. He was speaking on the occasion. On this occasion, <b>Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Chairman Siddhesh Kadam, MLA Manda Mhatre, Ravindra Phatak, Secretary of Environment and Climate Change Department Smt. Jayashree Bhoj, Navi Mumbai Mayor Sujata Patil, Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner Kailash Shinde, District Collector Dr. Shrikrishna Panchal, Director of the Directorate of Arts Dr. Nitin Ingle and other dignitaries were present</b>. </span></div><div><span>Chief Minister Fadnavis said, Ganesha is the god of wisdom. We start any auspicious work in the name of Ganpati Bappa. Environment is of utmost importance in the culture of Maharashtra and India. The creation was created from the five elements, and only if these five elements are protected and conserved can human life be safe. Therefore, it is everyone's responsibility to celebrate a festival like Ganeshotsav, which preserves faith and cultural heritage, in an environmentally friendly manner. After the Guinness World Record examiners announced the results, CM Fadnavis said that the real creators of this record were the participating students. He appealed to the students to be proud that they are also part of this record. The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of Minister Pankaja Munde, Environment Department, concerned officers and employees, J.J. School of Art and Directorate of Arts for the concept of this initiative. Minister Pankaja Munde, while congratulating the students, said that this is an attempt to reach the concept of eco-friendly Ganeshotsav to every section of the society through students. In this innovative workshop organized at CIDCO Exhibition and Convention Center, Vashi, thousands of students and citizens made Ganesh idols from clay under the guidance of sculptors. CM Fadnavis inspected the workshop and appreciated the idols made by the students. After that, he himself made a Ganesh idol. The enthusiasm of the students doubled when they saw the Chief Minister making the idol of Bappa with them. Minister Pankaja Munde also gave the message of an eco-friendly Ganeshotsav to the participating students by making a Ganesh idol herself. As CM Fadnavis and Minister Pankaja Munde made a clay Ganesh idol themselves, this message was given a practical touch. “If we can do it, every family can also make an eco-friendly Bappa,” was the positive message given through this initiative.</span></div>

CM Fadnavis and Pankaja Munde gave a message of environmental conservation by making the idol themselves

Maharashtra enters Guinness Book of World Records for making eco-friendly Ganesh idols, More than 10,000 students simultaneously...

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Small Cities, Big Leap: India's First Digital Credit & Inclusion Index Finds Tier-2 Cities Leading the Charge

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtBTj2asFHWduhiuoIREOKsXPRyQqWJ5np0XHmPLvH_Ej5XGYXKLXAHy-Hz5VZGvK65jLWVH2NHfJQdmkjDrHt6IbmmpQoHh0wXEHQhBHHRMB1aawRfemtVt62VwXxPw9z-sENaDM-vOLFud-RhkByv1nqfEDmiQCVnXqLJp33Dk8xUNdemT2PvkN0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtBTj2asFHWduhiuoIREOKsXPRyQqWJ5np0XHmPLvH_Ej5XGYXKLXAHy-Hz5VZGvK65jLWVH2NHfJQdmkjDrHt6IbmmpQoHh0wXEHQhBHHRMB1aawRfemtVt62VwXxPw9z-sENaDM-vOLFud-RhkByv1nqfEDmiQCVnXqLJp33Dk8xUNdemT2PvkN0" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div>• Tier-2 cities lead digital credit and inclusion, with an average score of 58.64, ahead of Tier-1 and Tier-3 cities</div><div>• 94.4% of respondents are aware of digital credit instruments, trust in digital borrowing trails digital payments by 17 points—even on the same app.</div><div>• Formal employment narrows the gender gap on digital inclusion: salaried women score 62.0 versus 60.2 for salaried men</div><div><br></div><div><b>MUMBAI: Pahlé India Foundation, in collaboration with Amazon Pay, launched the Digital Credit & Inclusion Index (DCII) 2026</b>—India’s first composite benchmark providing a comprehensive view of the country’s digital credit journey. Based on a primary survey of more than 5,000 respondents across 100 cities in 20 states, the DCII addresses a critical gap in India’s financial inclusion landscape by examining who accesses digital credit, how easily and frequently they use it, why they borrow, whether they trust it, and whether its use contributes to stronger financial outcomes, going beyond existing benchmarks that largely track payment adoption or aggregate loan volumes.</div><div>In its inaugural edition, India achieves a national DCII score of 55.85 out of 100, placing the country in the "Emerging and Served" category (51–75). The score reflects a maturing ecosystem where payment infrastructure and digital loan awareness are well established. Access is the strongest pillar at 61.24, followed closely by Adoption at 57.17. Impact which is the measure of whether digital credit is making households more financially secure lags at 49.16. This shows that India has made significant progress in expanding access to digital credit. The next opportunity is to deepen trust and adoption, help consumers borrow more purposefully, build confidence in digital credit on par with digital payments, and translate access into measurable financial resilience and savings outcome.</div><div><b>Rajiv Kumar, Chairman, Pahle India Foundation</b>, “Financial inclusion must be measured by outcomes, not just access and usage. The DCII tracks this, whether digital credit is strengthening financial resilience across cities, genders and income groups. Developed with Amazon Pay and tracked annually, we hope the index helps policymakers and financial institutions identify gaps and direct efforts where they matter most.”</div><div><b>Vikas Bansal, CEO, Amazon Pay India</b>, “India’s world-class digital payment infrastructure has transformed how millions transact. The next step is to make digital credit equally accessible, trusted and relevant. The finding that Tier-2 cities lead digital credit inclusion signals where the next wave of growth could emerge. With 75% of our customers based in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, insights from the DCII will help us build more relevant credit and savings experiences in these markets while addressing untapped opportunities in Tier-1 cities. As India advances towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the DCII will help track how digital credit translates into real financial progress.”</div><div><br></div><div><span><b>KEY FINDINGS</b></span></div><div><b>Tier-2 borrowers are driving India’s digital credit story</b></div><div>The DCII reveals a shift in the geography of digital borrowing. Tier-2 cities lead digital credit inclusion across age, gender, income, occupation and education, with an average score of 58.64, compared with 53.1 for Tier-1 and 55.7 for Tier-3 cities. This marks an important distinction between India’s digital payment and credit journeys. While Tier-1 cities continue to lead in digital payments, Tier-2 cities are emerging a s the strongest centres of digital credit adoption. Coimbatore, Surat, Nagpur, Indore, Prayagraj, Ranchi, Ghaziabad and Ludhiana are among the cities driving this growth. Tier-2 cities also show the narrowest gender gap in digital credit inclusion—2.8 points, compared with 9.1 points in Tier-1 cities—suggesting that stronger adoption is also accompanied by more balanced participation.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Economic opportunity is narrowing India’s digital credit gender gap</b></div><div>Economic agency is a powerful enabler of women’s financial inclusion. While men score higher than women overall on digital credit inclusion, the gap reverses among salaried respondents. Salaried women record a DCII score of 62.0, compared with 60.2 for salaried men. The trend is also narrowing across generations. The gender gap narrows to 2.9 points among respondents aged 18–29, compared with 4.6 points among those aged 60 and above. The findings suggest that equal economic access, particularly through formal salaried employment, can help close—and even reverse—the gender gap in digital credit inclusion.</div><div><br></div><div><b>India knows about digital credit. The next challenge is trust and impact.</b></div><div>Awareness is no longer the primary barrier: 94.4% of respondents know of at least one form of digital credit. Trust, however, remains a challenge. Confidence in digital borrowing stands at 52.5, compared with 69.7 for digital payments—a 17-point gap that underscores the need to bring greater trust, transparency and simplicity to the borrowing experience. Digital credit also plays a limited role during financial stress. When respondents last faced a cash shortfall, 48.2% turned to savings, while only 6.9% used a digital loan app and 3.4% used Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL). Digital credit may be increasingly available, but it has yet to become a meaningful financial cushion.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Digital participation is growing, but credit visibility remains uneven</b></div><div>The benefits of this momentum are uneven. The DCII highlights a persistent structural challenge: being digitally active does not necessarily make someone visible to the formal credit system. Homemakers, gig workers, daily-wage earners, students and others outside of formal salaried employment scores around 11 points lower than salaried and business respondents on digital credit inclusion. Closely linked to income and occupation, this divide highlights the need to complement traditional income documentation with digital transaction histories and cash-flow-based assessments, particularly for self-employed, gig and other irregular-income workers.</div><div><br></div><div><b>From consumption to productive use</b></div><div>Digital credit is largely used for consumption, with 59% of respondents using it to purchase electronics and home appliances. Productive use of digital credit such as investing in a business, building assets, or supporting financial planning—remains relatively low, with a score of 43.2. However, it rises significantly among frequent users with 64% reporting using digital credit productively. This suggests that as people become more familiar with digital credit, they are more likely to use it for longer-term financial goals. The next goal is not simply acquiring new users—it is deepening the habits of existing ones.</div><div>The DCII signals a new phase in India's digital financial journey. With access and rails established, the opportunity now is to make credit more trusted, purposeful and inclusive, and translate adoption into stronger financial outcomes. The report sets priorities for government, regulators, financial institutions, fintechs and researchers: measure digital credit inclusion consistently; use consent-based data for alternative underwriting; design for irregular incomes; strengthen transparency and responsible borrowing; deepen Tier-2/Tier-3 participation; and strengthen the credit-savings link while tracking whether access improves resilience.</div>

Small Cities, Big Leap: India's First Digital Credit & Inclusion Index Finds Tier-2 Cities Leading the Charge

• Tier-2 cities lead digital credit and inclusion, with an average score of 58.64, ahead of Tier-1 and Tier-3 cities • 94.4% of ...

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IFAT India 2026 opens in Mumbai as government and industry focus on water security, sanitation and circular resource management

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAmvUn4kaX1ksOTBxPxnVe00hCk2QztOMltUxZgDyUBQDHfe1UnefmW8dQCinbAMrOEUTmzKzTWHOyjYdYGOt-DDHCfEMdSt6PcxFe6FiAeYUxFANSlzy1gor39wmynbUR7vy5sevmDsNLZ9xZ0XPg1vfPLYzgUvk2XIG28ny7ULWE-jkR-ytD4ewc" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAmvUn4kaX1ksOTBxPxnVe00hCk2QztOMltUxZgDyUBQDHfe1UnefmW8dQCinbAMrOEUTmzKzTWHOyjYdYGOt-DDHCfEMdSt6PcxFe6FiAeYUxFANSlzy1gor39wmynbUR7vy5sevmDsNLZ9xZ0XPg1vfPLYzgUvk2XIG28ny7ULWE-jkR-ytD4ewc" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div><span><b>Mumbai: </b>The 13th edition of <b>IFAT India</b>, the country’s largest trade fair for water, sewage, solid waste management and recycling solutions, opened at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO), Mumbai.</span></div><div><br></div><div>The opening brought together Smt. Agnimitra Paul, Minister-in-Charge, Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal, Smt. Isha Kalia, IAS Joint Secretary & Mission Director (NULM & PM SVANidhi), Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs and senior representatives from state governments, municipal bodies, diplomatic missions, professional associations, international networks and the environmental technology industry.</div><div><br></div><div>Across the three-day event, IFAT India 2026 provides a platform for discussions, technology showcases and industry–government engagement around water security, wastewater management, sanitation, municipal solid waste, recycling and circular resource management. The programme is designed to help public- and private-sector decision-makers assess solutions, compare approaches and build partnerships for projects across the water and waste value chains.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Bhupinder Singh, President IMEA, Messe München GmbH, and CEO, Messe Muenchen India,</b> said, “India’s environmental infrastructure needs solutions that can perform reliably at scale. IFAT India connects public authorities, industry and technology providers to evaluate these solutions, exchange implementation experience and build partnerships for projects across the water and waste sectors.”</div><div><br></div><div><b>Opening dialogue puts implementation at the centre</b></div><div>The inauguration was followed by a fireside conversation moderated by •Prabal Bhardwaj, Partner – Health, Human & Social Services (HHSS) Government & Public Services (G&PS), KPMG in India with Smt. Agnimitra Paul. The discussion placed urban infrastructure delivery at the centre of the opening day agenda, connecting policy priorities with the practical requirements of cities, utilities and project teams.</div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>Agnimitra Paul, Minister-in-Charge, Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal</b>, said, “IFAT India has given us an excellent opportunity to explore new technologies and understand best practices in solid waste and wastewater management from India and around the world. We are keen to identify solutions that can be effectively implemented in West Bengal and strengthen the way our cities manage these critical areas.”</span></div><div><br></div><div><b>Isha Kalia, IAS Joint Secretary & Mission Director (NULM & PM SVANidhi) Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs</b>, said, “With technologies and innovations across water, wastewater, pumps, networks and sludge management under one roof, there is a lot to understand and explore at IFAT India. As the sector evolves rapidly, all stakeholders need to stay aware of new developments and adapt the right solutions to local needs.”</div>

IFAT India 2026 opens in Mumbai as government and industry focus on water security, sanitation and circular resource management

Mumbai: The 13th edition of IFAT India , the country’s largest trade fair for water, sewage, solid waste management and recyclin...

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ASSOCHAM MahaChem 2026: Maharashtra to unveil dedicated chemical sector policy by October-end; plans 5,000-acre chemical parks

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ2cuyr-9_yH9_TtDipdBF0KvySUYOelidMVt87IgDQHGuHDx-FUiMdlKvNgmaThxf_8PNOpNLoWpTyOEU8TdT9fjIaIM31auEPni3bfaz5Zt4B-lezg7HNvML5PLcjP3h6XhfDqItokA5N55ueq0FvK4BjRFLA2UB2WRiyFK_XR7JkamN-EOUMlwZ" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ2cuyr-9_yH9_TtDipdBF0KvySUYOelidMVt87IgDQHGuHDx-FUiMdlKvNgmaThxf_8PNOpNLoWpTyOEU8TdT9fjIaIM31auEPni3bfaz5Zt4B-lezg7HNvML5PLcjP3h6XhfDqItokA5N55ueq0FvK4BjRFLA2UB2WRiyFK_XR7JkamN-EOUMlwZ" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis invites fresh investments; State to focus on faster clearances, competitive utilities and high-value chemical manufacturing</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai:</b> Maharashtra is set to introduce a dedicated Chemical Sector Policy by the end of October, while exploring the development of 2,500–5,000-acre chemical parks in Palghar, Raigad and Ratnagiri and planning a ₹1,000-crore Maharashtra Industries and Investment Fund to support R&D, technology readiness and innovation, senior state governmeent officials said at <b>MahaChem 2026 in Mumbai</b>.</div><div>The upcoming policy will further build on Maharashtra’s strong chemical manufacturing base and reinforce its position as a global hub for the sector, opening up new opportunities for investments across specialty chemicals, advanced materials, battery materials, electronic chemicals, advanced polymers, bioplastics and other high-value segments.</div><div><span><b>Dr. P. Anbalagan IAS, Principal Secretary Industries, Investment and Services Department, Government of Maharashtra</b>, said at ASSOCHAM MahaChem 2026, the state is taking steps to create a stronger ecosystem for the chemical sector, with a dedicated policy, new chemical parks and measures to support innovation and technology-led growth.</span></div><div>“Maharashtra is working towards a dedicated Chemical Sector Policy and we expect to have it in place by the end of October. The policy will address the specific requirements of the sector and complement initiatives already being developed across bioplastics, biotechnology, biomanufacturing and other emerging areas,” Dr. Anbalagan said.</div><div>He said the state is also examining locations including Palghar, Raigad and Ratnagiri for chemical parks ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 acres. Alongside this, faster approvals and ease of doing business would remain key priorities. The proposed ₹1,000-crore Maharashtra Industries and Investment Fund will support R&D, technology readiness and innovation, while strengthening the financing ecosystem for new technologies and businesses.</div><div><b>Praveen Pardeshi IAS, Chief Economic Advisor to Chief Minister and Chief Executive Officer, Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA), </b>said at ASSOCHAM MahaChem 2026, the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors would be critical to Maharashtra’s ambition of becoming a US$1 trillion economy, with competitiveness increasingly dependent on access to utilities, energy and water, as well as supportive policy reforms.</div><div>“Achieving this will require faster growth as well as an ecosystem that attracts greater private investment. For strategic sectors such as chemicals and pharmaceuticals, competitive utility costs, flexible energy access, sustainable water management and supportive policy reforms will be critical to strengthening Maharashtra’s industrial competitiveness.”</div><div><b>Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra, </b>conveyed to ASSOCHAM that the state remains committed to attracting new investments into the sector and strengthening the business environment through faster clearances, policy incentives and the MAITRI single-window platform.</div><div>“We invite investors to look at Maharashtra for their next big venture. The state is committed to creating a pro-business environment through the single-window MAITRI platform, faster clearances and robust policy incentives. A sector-specific Chemical Sector Policy will soon be announced, which will further help attract investments and accelerate growth.”</div><div>The Chief Minister emphasised that the chemical and petrochemical sector is a primary engine of Maharashtra’s US$1 trillion economy vision, adding that the government would continue to provide financial, logistical and administrative support to build an innovation-led and sustainable industrial future.</div>

ASSOCHAM MahaChem 2026: Maharashtra to unveil dedicated chemical sector policy by October-end; plans 5,000-acre chemical parks

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis invites fresh investments; State to focus on faster clearances, competitive utilities and high-...

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JICA Supported Western Dedicated Freight Corridor Completed, Marking Landmark Milestone in India–Japan Infrastructure Cooperation

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI6mWivFFszuPulV1M8u93_tvD8yWdMSfZSlrPRGmWt8iOIL6g9t2ZcM9bvWMXahiLR1VjYfRaRZ91j8HdTuDI2PeaX_Vah4SoDwJnvot7G_kcjQyR4vlw6BrMoZmdXOj20q8vGfhAeBFhthqVn-xfEbrzzHj9hmcePDEHBupRzom-9Kl5Np2GPkLG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI6mWivFFszuPulV1M8u93_tvD8yWdMSfZSlrPRGmWt8iOIL6g9t2ZcM9bvWMXahiLR1VjYfRaRZ91j8HdTuDI2PeaX_Vah4SoDwJnvot7G_kcjQyR4vlw6BrMoZmdXOj20q8vGfhAeBFhthqVn-xfEbrzzHj9hmcePDEHBupRzom-9Kl5Np2GPkLG" width="400"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfMoRAyRNZ4P6rR4a4U-kioFQKQifOpHbEANU_oM10AE_qdr-9rbOtbXaWdUQYFaPanHxRIbyIfZ_sYkwOXiYNIo9gXtCJfByYycwwSXbDCsvqjOCY1pR0tWZ4iJdZdqZ4hgiAFxZKoIx7_oJATOh26J2kj7fk4gzEh1_bZ5P1M24ocnJeClifVmVG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfMoRAyRNZ4P6rR4a4U-kioFQKQifOpHbEANU_oM10AE_qdr-9rbOtbXaWdUQYFaPanHxRIbyIfZ_sYkwOXiYNIo9gXtCJfByYycwwSXbDCsvqjOCY1pR0tWZ4iJdZdqZ4hgiAFxZKoIx7_oJATOh26J2kj7fk4gzEh1_bZ5P1M24ocnJeClifVmVG" width="400"> </a> </div><br></div><div><b>Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated key sections of the Freight Corridor to the nation</b></div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA),</b> achieved a landmark milestone, with the completion and fully operationalisation of the <b>Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC).</b> The Dedicated Freight Corridor has been developed with financial and technical support from JICA, in collaboration with the <b>Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL)</b>, the implementing agency under the <b>Ministry of Railways, Government of India. </b></div><div><b>Prime Minister Narendra Modi</b> dedicated key sections of the completed Western Dedicated Freight Corridor to the nation from Vadodara, Gujarat. The three sections, New Sanad North – New Makarpura, New Umbergaon – New Saphale, and New Saphale – New JNPT, together cover a total length of 326 KM and have been constructed at a cumulative cost of ₹20,703 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>The event at Maharashtra location was graced by the presence of <b>Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Maharashtra; Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Sato Hitomi, Consul-General, Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai; TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India along with Shri Praveen Kumar, Managing Director, DFCCIL</b> and other dignitaries.</div><div><br></div><div>The completion of the 1,506 KM long Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC), now connects Dadri in Uttar Pradesh with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) in Mumbai, marking a major milestone in the modernisation of India’s freight transportation network. This project represents one of the most significant achievements of India–Japan cooperation in large-scale infrastructure development. </div><div><br></div><div>JICA has extended cumulative Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans of JPY 620,787 million (INR 37,658 crore) to DFCCIL, supporting India’s efforts to modernise, enhance logistics infrastructure and strengthen connectivity along the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. </div><div><br></div><div>On this occasion, <b>Sato Hitomi, Consul-General, Consulate-General of Japan in Mumbai</b> said, “the inauguration of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor shows another completion of the flagship project of Japan-India cooperation. As a national logistics artery, this high-capacity, fully electrified corridor will accelerate logistics, enhance industrial competitiveness, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, and ease congestion on passenger lines. Japan is proud to have participated in this initiative through ODA scheme. JICA and Japanese and Indian companies and experts have shared their knowledge and worked hard to realize the project.” </div><div><br></div><div><b>TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India</b>, shared the following comments, “WDFC is not merely a railway project. It is a story of vision, perseverance, and partnership. When the idea was first proposed, many thought it was too ambitious. Today, it stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through long-term commitment and cooperation. JICA remains fully committed to supporting India's continued development and to further strengthening the special strategic and global partnership between the two countries.” </div><div><br></div><div>The commissioning of these three sections of the WDFC will provide direct rail connectivity to <b>Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA)</b> through the WDFC network, enabling faster and more efficient cargo movement. The corridor connects key industrial hubs in Palghar, Thane and Raigad in Maharashtra with industrial centres across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat, linking them to ports and national markets and supporting regional economic growth. It is also expected to reduce logistics costs and transit time while helping decongest Mumbai’s railway network.</div>

JICA Supported Western Dedicated Freight Corridor Completed, Marking Landmark Milestone in India–Japan Infrastructure Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated key sections of the Freight Corridor to the nation Mumbai: Japan Internationa...

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ONGC Hosts Mumbai City Connect of MC²⁺ Ignite at IIT Bombay

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJeZ-VdYI0lF95oWqcxgu6kTY42eDTfsopMGOm5nJq7-qIMz9qqF-Q-DQWJn2Gzjo1QVkQFmRyPS6YXt2nTOVz7OpugPZsHkq04PbccskjpADijm_HJBWP3gcJfO6ABIwVS9QTpeismAdTqmHkPzKDa-QYSIzYI1uA01ujT8DpYcy5KwAj2pVrSUlN" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJeZ-VdYI0lF95oWqcxgu6kTY42eDTfsopMGOm5nJq7-qIMz9qqF-Q-DQWJn2Gzjo1QVkQFmRyPS6YXt2nTOVz7OpugPZsHkq04PbccskjpADijm_HJBWP3gcJfO6ABIwVS9QTpeismAdTqmHkPzKDa-QYSIzYI1uA01ujT8DpYcy5KwAj2pVrSUlN" width="400"> </a> </div><b>Tripartite MoU between MC²+ Foundation, IIT Bombay and SINE, IIT Bombay, signed during the MC²⁺ Ignite Mumbai City Connect on 8 September 2026</b></div><div><br></div><div>Tripartite MoU Signed to Strengthen Energy Innovation Ecosystem </div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), in association with MC²⁺ Foundation, hosted the Mumbai City Connect of MC²⁺ Ignite,</b> India’s flagship energy innovation accelerator, at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay on 8 September 2026.</div><div>The programme brought together leaders from the energy sector, academia, research institutions, startups and the wider innovation ecosystem to explore emerging technologies, industry challenges and opportunities for accelerating innovation across India’s energy sector.</div><div><br></div><div><b>The event was led by ONGC Chairman & CEO Arun Kumar Singh and featured Prof. Aniruddha B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor, Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, as the keynote speaker. Also present were Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay; Om Prakash Sinha, Director (Exploration), ONGC; Bhaskar Chowdary Nettem, Designated OSD (Production), ONGC; Ratnesh Kumar, ED–Chief Corporate Strategy, ONGC; Dhananjay Rai, representing MC²⁺; Shaji Varghese, Chief Executive Officer, Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SINE), IIT Bombay; Prof. Nishant Sharma, SINE; and Prof. Yogendra Shastri, Centre of Excellence in Oil, Gas and Energy (CoEOGE), IIT Bombay.</b></div><div><b> </b></div><div><b>Tripartite MoU between MC²+ Foundation, IIT Bombay and SINE, IIT Bombay, signed during the MC²⁺ Ignite Mumbai City Connect on 8 September 2026</b></div><div><br></div><div>A key milestone of the programme was the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MC²⁺ Foundation, IIT Bombay and the Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SINE), IIT Bombay, on 8 September 2026.</div><div>The collaboration seeks to strengthen the interface between industry, academia and startups, providing innovators access to research and development facilities, laboratories, academic and industry mentors, funding, market access and opportunities to undertake pilot projects in real-world operating environments.</div><div>As a partner PSU in the MC²⁺ ecosystem, ONGC will collaborate with IIT Bombay and SINE across AI-driven Subsurface Intelligence and six other energy innovation themes, bringing together industry problem statements and emerging technological solutions. The engagement is expected to enable promising technologies to progress from research and development to validation, pilots, deployment and commercial scale.</div><div>The Mumbai City Connect forms part of the nationwide outreach for MC²⁺ Ignite, designed to support startups developing innovative solutions for the energy sector through access to funding, technical expertise, research infrastructure, pilot opportunities and industry engagement.</div><div>The accelerator will support up to 30 high-potential early-stage startups. Selected startups will be eligible for up to ₹50 lakh in convertible funding and up to ₹1.5 crore in milestone-based funding, amounting to potential support of up to ₹2 crore per startup.</div><div>The programme focuses on seven areas: AI-driven Subsurface Intelligence; next-generation drilling and well completion technologies; hydrogen and mobility; bioenergy with focus on Compressed Biogas (CBG); refinery process intensification and catalysis; digital asset management; and other innovations relevant to the energy sector.</div><div>A panel discussion and startup showcase during the programme featured founders and representatives from Sagar Defence, String Bio, WellRx, AngelBot AI and VDT Pipeline Solutions, highlighting startup journeys and opportunities for translating emerging technologies into scalable industry solutions.</div><div>MC²⁺ Ignite was formally launched at IIT Madras on 19 August 2026 by Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Chairman, MC² Foundation, in the presence of leaders of major Oil & Gas companies and partner institutions. The Mumbai programme follows the Pune City Connect held on 3 September 2026 and forms part of the wider multi-city outreach for the accelerator.</div><div>MC²⁺ Foundation brings together leading energy companies, academic and research institutions, startups and innovators with the objective of facilitating the development, validation, deployment and commercialisation of technologies relevant to India’s energy sector.</div><div>Applications for the inaugural MC²⁺ Ignite cohort are open until 15 September 2026.</div><div><br></div><div><b>About MC² Foundation:</b></div><div>MC²⁺ Foundation is an energy innovation platform aimed at connecting startups and researchers with industry, academic institutions, infrastructure, funding, pilot opportunities and pathways for commercial deployment.</div>

ONGC Hosts Mumbai City Connect of MC²⁺ Ignite at IIT Bombay

Tripartite MoU between MC²+ Foundation, IIT Bombay and SINE, IIT Bombay, signed during the MC²⁺ Ignite Mumbai City Connect on 8 ...

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Ilaya Thilagam Prabhu Ganesan and Malaika Arora Unveils Kalyan Jewellers First Showroom in Mulund

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqNPU2cMgQ5r0NKbtGSNY0yYDGcHcQwEfic227fXtZ1SzkHLkLoC60__tm9IMkypMO5OIbKWrKrG3YQHjzGy71b0klkenHK_OfRjNIq2kgeLiTs_YCHu37haMGZLakz-pl1fPohVdKxnmwzGfHPZbWKisc1vVJ1FhrbLHgCI2eVElsbd8lVi3ibcm_" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqNPU2cMgQ5r0NKbtGSNY0yYDGcHcQwEfic227fXtZ1SzkHLkLoC60__tm9IMkypMO5OIbKWrKrG3YQHjzGy71b0klkenHK_OfRjNIq2kgeLiTs_YCHu37haMGZLakz-pl1fPohVdKxnmwzGfHPZbWKisc1vVJ1FhrbLHgCI2eVElsbd8lVi3ibcm_" width="400"> </a> </div></div><div>The new showroom brings Kalyan Jewellers trusted legacy and world-class jewellery shopping experience to customers in Mulund</div><div><br></div><div><b>Mumbai: Kalyan Jewellers</b> launched its all-new showroom at Mulund in Maharashtra. Prabhu Ganesan and Malaika Arora inaugurated the showroom, which aims to further strengthen the brand’s presence in the region. The showroom offers an array of exquisite designs from Kalyan Jewellers, featuring popular house brands such as Muhurat (Wedding Jewellery Line), Mudhra (Handcrafted Antique Jewellery), Nimah (Temple Jewellery) and many more.</div><div>The launch celebrations were further highlighted by the unveiling of the lifestyle jewellery brand Candere, from the house of Kalyan Jewellers. Known for its trendy jewellery and contemporary designs, it offers lightweight jewellery collections that cater to the tastes of today’s Gen Z, working women and style-savvy men. With prices starting at Rs. 10,000/- the jewellery at Candere make for ideal gifts. From its origins as a digital-first brand to its evolution into an omni-channel retailer, Candere continues to prioritise combining the convenience of online shopping with the tangible touch-and-feel aspect of a physical store.</div><div><br></div><div>Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, <b>Prabhu Ganesan </b>said, “We are truly delighted to be part of the inauguration of Kalyan Jewellers new showrooms. It is an honour to represent a brand that has consistently championed trust, transparency, and a strong customer-first philosophy. </div><div>“We are confident that patrons in this city will extend their warmth and support to Kalyan Jewellers while appreciating the brand’s exceptional service standards and its diverse range of exquisite jewellery collections,” <b>Malaika Arora</b> added. </div><div><br></div><div>Commenting on the new showroom launch, <b>Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers</b>, said, “We are delighted to strengthen our presence in Maharashtra with the launch of our first showroom in Mulund. This expansion reflects our commitment to making the Kalyan Jewellers experience more accessible to customers across the region. Our endeavour is to offer patrons an unmatched jewellery shopping experience through exceptional craftsmanship, extensive collections, and our unwavering commitment to trust and transparency.”</div><div><br></div><div>To celebrate the grand opening, Kalyan Jewellers is offering 30% off on making charges* Additionally, customers will benefit from Kalyan’s Special Gold Board Rate, ensuring the most competitive and transparent gold prices in the market, consistent across all company showrooms.</div><div>All jewellery retailed at Kalyan Jewellers is BIS-hallmarked and undergoes multiple purity tests. In addition, patrons will receive the Kalyan Jewellers 4-Level Assurance Certificate, guaranteeing gold purity, free lifetime maintenance, detailed product information,  transparent exchange and buy-back policies, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to trust and transparency.</div><div><br></div><div><b>For more information on the brand</b>, its collections and offers, visit https://www.kalyanjewellers.net/</div><div><br></div><div><b>About Kalyan Jewellers</b></div><div>Headquartered in Thrissur in the state of Kerala, Kalyan Jewellers is one the largest jewellery retailers in India with a presence in the Middle East and the USA. The company has enjoyed a longstanding presence in the Indian market for over three decades and has set industry benchmarks in quality, transparency, pricing and innovation. Kalyan offers an array of traditional and contemporary jewellery designs in gold, diamonds and precious stones catering to the distinct needs of customers. Kalyan Jewellers has over 400 showrooms across India, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, USA and UK, with a retail area exceeding 9,08,000 sq. ft.</div>

Ilaya Thilagam Prabhu Ganesan and Malaika Arora Unveils Kalyan Jewellers First Showroom in Mulund

The new showroom brings Kalyan Jewellers trusted legacy and world-class jewellery shopping experience to customers in Mulund Mum...

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