Archive: August 1, 2026

Air India Express Commences Operations from Bhopal with Daily Flights to Delhi and Mumbai

 

Air India Express Commences Operations from Bhopal with Daily Flights to Delhi and Mumbai

 

Aug 01: Air India Express today commenced operations from Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal, with the launch of two daily flights to Delhi and a daily flight to Mumbai, strengthening connectivity from Madhya Pradesh’s capital. The inaugural flight to Delhi departed Raja Bhoj Airport at 12:45 hrs and arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport at 14:15 hrs. The first flight to Mumbai departed Bhopal at 13:40 hrs and landed at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 15:25 hrs.

Bookings for these flights are open on airindiaexpress.com, the Air India Express mobile app, and other major booking channels.

Schedule effective from 1 August 2026 (all timings are local)

Departure

Arrival

Departure Time

Arrival Time

Frequency

Delhi

Bhopal

10:40; 15:05

12:05; 16:30

2x Daily

Bhopal

Delhi

12:45; 17:10

14:15; 18:40

2x Daily

Mumbai

Bhopal

11:20

13:00

Daily

Bhopal

Mumbai

13:40

15:25

Daily

Air India Express recently strengthened Madhya Pradesh’s international connectivity with the launch of direct flights between Indore and Abu Dhabi.With the commencement of services from Bhopal, the airline now operates around 55 weekly flights across Bhopal, Gwalior, and Indore.

Beyond enhancing connectivity to support tourism, trade, and economic growth, Air India Express continues to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through its Tales of India initiative. Madhya Pradesh is proudly represented on the airline’s Boeing 737-8 aircraft, VT-BXQ and VT-BXY, featuring tail art inspired by the state’s iconic Bagh hand-block printing tradition and Chanderi handwoven textile, respectively.

 

Acer and Acerpure India Celebrate 10th Annual Acer Day with Call to SHIFT THE GAME

Acer and Acerpure India Celebrate 10th Annual Acer Day with Call to SHIFT THE GAME

Mumbai, Aug 01: Acer today announced the 10th annual Acer Day, taking place this August. To mark the 10th anniversary of the event, Acer is unveiling SHIFT THE GAME as this years rallying theme across the Asia Pacific region. The celebration coincides with Acers 50-year anniversary as a technology company, making 2026 one of the most significant chapters in the brands history. 

SHIFT THE GAME speaks to a generation unwilling to be boxed in by convention. It is a call for creators, gamers, young innovators, and everyday dreamers across the region to stop waiting for permission, take ownership of their paths, and challenge the norms that shape culture, work, and play. It is a mindset built on thinking differently and creating boldly.

 Acer is committed to providing technology that not only keeps up with how people learn, create, and play, but also gives them the edge to go further,” said Andrew Hou, President of Pan-Asia Pacific Operations, Acer. “Through this years Acer Day celebration, Acer is putting the right tools in the hands of the individuals, empowering them to shift the game.”

Acer Day 2026 in India

In IndiaAcer Day 2026 brings together Acers computing innovations and Acerpures smart home solutions under one celebration. Throughout August, customers can enjoy exclusive offers across Acer laptops, desktops, gaming devices and accessories, while Acerpure extends the celebration with special pricing on select vacuum cleaners and air purifiers. The offers are available across Acer Exclusive Stores, the Acer E-store, the Acerpure E-store and the Acerpure Amazon Store, giving consumers more ways to experience Acers innovation across work, play and everyday living. 

Acer Exclusive Stores | August 1–31, 2026

As part of Acer Day 2026, customers shopping at Acer Exclusive Stores across India can enjoy a range of exciting offers throughout the month.

  • Up to ₹20,000 Instant Bank Discount on select SKUs
  • Up to 50% off on select SKUs
  • Free 2-Year Extended Warranty on all laptops during the promotional period
  • Free 1-Year Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) on select SKUs
  • Easy EMI & No Cost EMI on select SKUs
  • Free accessories with laptop purchases on select days
  • Additional 7% Student Discount on eligible SKUs during the promotional period

Acer E-store Exclusive | August 1–5, 2026

Customers shopping on the Acer E-store during the first five days of Acer Day can unlock exclusive online offers, including:

  • Up to ₹20,000 Instant Bank Discount on select Laptops
  • Up to 50% off on select products
  • Free 2-Year Extended Warranty on all laptops
  • Free 1-Year Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) on select laptops 
  • 10% Student Discount on Select Laptops
  • Lucky Draw, with a chance to win 3 laptops and Acer tablets
  • Free accessories on select laptops

Extending Acer Day to Smarter Living with Acerpure

As Acers lifestyle and smart home appliance brand, Acerpure extends the SHIFT THE GAME spirit beyond computing by bringing trusted technology into everyday living. Through exclusive Acer Day offers on select vacuum cleaners and air purifiers, Acerpure is making healthier, cleaner and smarter homes more accessible to consumers across India. 

Acerpure Exclusive | August 1–31, 2026

As part of Acer Day 2026, Acerpure India is extending the celebration with exclusive offers across Acerpures home cleaning and air purification portfolio, including:

Acerpure Cozy Air Circulator

  • Advance G Series 65” TV 

Acerpure Chill Neo Air Conditioner

  • 1.5 Ton 5 Star AC 

Acerpure Cozy Air Circulator

  • F1 

Vacuum Cleaners

  • Acerpure Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner 
  • Acerpure Dry Vacuum Cleaner 
  • Acerpure Pet Cleaner 

Air Purifiers

  • Acerpure Air Purifier AP551-P2 
  • Acerpure Air Purifier C2 UV (AC553)
  • Acerpure Air Purifier C1 (AC530W/G)
  • Acerpure Air Purifier P2 Lite 
  • Acerpure Commercial Air Purifier 

The exclusive Acer Day offers are available on store.acerpure.co.in from 1st August to 31st August 2026. Consumers can also avail special Acer Day offers on Acerpures Amazon Store.

For more information about Acer Day 2026, visit Acers official website and follow its social media platforms on Instagram, Facebook, and X for the latest updates.

GST Revenue Hits INR 2.11 Lakh Crore in July, Reflecting Strong Economic Growth

New Delhi, Aug 1: India’s gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections recorded a significant rise in July, reaching ₹2.11 lakh crore with a 15.4 per cent year-on-year growth, signalling strong economic activity, rising consumption, and improved tax compliance.

The latest GST figures highlight the continued momentum of India’s economy, with businesses across sectors contributing to higher revenue collections. The growth reflects increased trade activity, steady consumer demand, and greater participation in the formal economy.

The rise in GST collections is expected to strengthen government finances and support investments in infrastructure, public services, and development programmes. Higher revenue generation provides greater flexibility for growth-focused initiatives while helping maintain fiscal stability.

The improved performance has also been supported by technology-driven tax systems, digital compliance measures, and enhanced transparency in the GST framework. These reforms have helped simplify tax processes, improve efficiency, and encourage more businesses to operate within the formal system.

For businesses, the steady expansion of GST collections reflects a more integrated national market with smoother interstate trade and improved ease of doing business. The positive trend also supports confidence among industries and investors about India’s economic outlook.

The continued growth in GST revenue underlines the strength of India’s consumption-driven economy and reinforces GST’s role as a key contributor to economic development and financial stability.

Samudra Manthan to Strengthen India’s Energy Security by Unlocking Offshore Oil and Gas Potential

New Delhi, Aug 1: India is taking a significant step towards strengthening its energy security with the ‘Samudra Manthan’ initiative, a strategic effort focused on exploring and developing the country’s offshore oil and gas resources.

The initiative aims to tap into India’s vast offshore energy potential by using advanced exploration technologies and modern scientific techniques. By increasing domestic production of oil and natural gas, Samudra Manthan is expected to help reduce India’s dependence on imports while supporting the nation’s growing energy requirements.

India’s energy demand has continued to rise alongside economic growth and industrial expansion. Strengthening domestic exploration capabilities will play an important role in ensuring a more secure, reliable, and resilient energy supply for the future.

Through deeper exploration of offshore regions, the initiative is expected to encourage investment in the energy sector, create new employment opportunities, and promote the development of advanced technologies in exploration and production.

The move also aligns with India’s broader vision of achieving greater self-reliance in critical sectors. While the country continues to accelerate renewable energy adoption, domestic oil and gas resources will remain important in supporting industries, transportation, and economic growth during the energy transition.

Samudra Manthan represents a major opportunity to discover new energy resources beneath India’s waters and strengthen the country’s position in the global energy landscape. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to innovation, resource development, and long-term energy security.

With continued focus on technology, investment, and sustainable resource management, Samudra Manthan is expected to contribute significantly to building a stronger and more self-reliant energy future for India.

Lava Virat Series Goes Out Of Stock On Day 1 Of Sale Going Live On Flipkart

New Delhi, August 01: Lava International Limited, India’s leading homegrown smartphone brand, confirmed a stockout of its latest Lava Virat V1 5G and Lava Virat V1 on Flipkart on Day 1 of the sale going live at 12:00 PM IST today.

The Lava Virat series witnessed a phenomenal response, clocking its fastest stockout on a sale day, underlining the growing base of online-first consumers who demand devices that combine dependable performance, a clean Android experience, and reliable build quality at accessible price points. 

Built for India’s youth and digital-first consumers, the Lava Virat V1 5G features a 17.13 cm (6.75-inch) HD+ display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, a powerful 6000mAh battery, and the UNISOC T8200 processor. The smartphone comes with 4GB RAM with up to 4GB of additional virtual RAM, 64GB internal storage expandable up to 1TB, a 13MP AI Dual Camera, and a 5MP selfie camera. It runs on Clean Android 16, free from ads and bloatware, and comes with IP64-rated dust and water resistance.

The Lava Virat V1 is powered by a 5000mAh battery and the UNISOC SC9863A processor, and features a 17.13 cm (6.75-inch) HD+ display. With 4GB RAM with up to 4GB of additional virtual RAM, 64GB internal storage expandable up to 256GB, a 13MP AI Dual Rear Camera, and a 5MP selfie camera, the smartphone offers reliable everyday performance. It also features a clean Android experience with no ads and no bloatware, along with IP64 dust and water resistance.

 Lava is currently working closely with Flipkart to replenish stocks at the earliest, ensuring that consumers who missed out in the first round will be able to purchase the device soon.

Indian Stock Markets Rally as Nifty and Sensex Post Weekly Gains Above 2.5%

Mumbai, Aug 1: Indian equity markets wrapped up the week on a positive note, with the benchmark Nifty 50 and Sensex registering gains of more than 2.5%, supported by easing crude oil prices, improving global sentiment, and sustained investor confidence.

Indian Stock Markets Rally as Nifty and Sensex Post Weekly Gains Above 2.5%

The Nifty 50 climbed 2.59% over the week and closed the final trading session at 24,383, adding 0.27% on the day. The Sensex also recorded a solid weekly advance of 2.68%, finishing at 78,094, up 166 points, or 0.21%, in the last trading session.

The rally was broad-based, with large-cap companies leading the market higher as lower crude oil prices eased concerns over inflation and strengthened expectations for economic stability. Softer energy costs also improved sentiment across global markets, providing additional support to Indian equities.

Among the key sectors, metal and automobile stocks emerged as the top performers, benefiting from a more favorable global outlook and lower input costs. Technology stocks experienced some volatility toward the end of the week following a rebound in global semiconductor companies. Despite the temporary pressure, the sector ended the week with healthy gains as investors continued to see value in quality technology stocks.

Overall, the week’s performance reflected growing optimism in the Indian market, driven by supportive macroeconomic conditions, resilient investor sentiment, and expectations that easing inflationary pressures could continue to benefit corporate earnings and economic growth in the months ahead.

Global Grace Cancer Run 2026: 9th Edition announced

Global Grace Cancer Run 2026: 9th Edition announced

 

Hyderabad, Aug 01: The 9th Edition of Quambiant’s Global Grace Cancer Run 2026, powered by Evernorth Health Services, was formally announced at a grand launch event held at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, on Friday evening.

 The Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad. The event will be conducted in both physical and virtual formats, with the Hyderabad edition being an in-person event.

 Renowned filmmaker Anil Ravipudi and popular actress Nidhhi Agerwal graced the occasion as Chief Guests and unveiled the official Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 T-shirt and Finisher’s Medal, marking the launch of this year’s global campaign against cancer.

 Speaking on the occasion, Nidhhi Agerwal said, “Doctors are the real heroes. This is not one of the usual events that I attend. Grace Cancer Foundation is doing remarkable work. Prevention is always better than cure. Once you cross the age of 40, make regular health check-ups a part of your life.”

 Addressing the gathering, Anil Ravipudi said that cancer cases are increasing rapidly and stressed the importance of listening to one’s body.

 “Your body is the greatest research centre. A sound body leads to a sound mind. Reduce stress and lead a pleasant life. Stress is the root cause of many ailments. That is why my WhatsApp display picture says ‘Happy Mind, Happy Life’,” he remarked.

 In his characteristic humorous style, he added, “People call doctors heart specialists. In my own way, I am also a heart doctor because I believe laughter is the best medicine. Through my films, I try to make people laugh and keep their hearts happy.”

 He also encouraged everyone to remain youthful in spirit, saying, “Always nurture positive thoughts. The imagination of being young gives you tremendous energy.”

 Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation, said that cancer continues to be one of the world’s biggest public health challenges. However, a significant number of cancers can either be prevented or successfully treated when detected early.

 Dr. Sunkavalli also announced that Grace Cancer Foundation will soon be listed on the Social Stock Exchange of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), enabling greater transparency and wider public participation in supporting its mission.

Global Grace Cancer Run 2026: 9th Edition announced

 

 “The Global Grace Cancer Run is not merely a sporting event. It is a global movement that combines awareness, prevention, early detection and hope. Every participant becomes an ambassador in the fight against cancer, while every registration helps us reach underserved communities with life-saving screening services,” he said.

 He further stated that the funds raised through this year’s run will be utilised to screen one lakh economically disadvantaged people for cancer and other non-communicable diseases through mobile screening units. The initiative will also support HPV vaccination, awareness programmes, lifestyle modification and preventive healthcare, bringing quality cancer screening and treatment closer to rural communities.

 Dr. Pavan Gorukanti, Director, Yashoda Hospitals, emphasised that early detection of cancer significantly improves the chances of complete recovery and helps patients return to normal life. He urged everyone to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle.

 Mr. Yogendranath, Founder of Quambiant Developers, the Global Title Sponsor, said, “No one should ever suffer because of cancer. We are proud to continue supporting this noble cause and contribute towards saving lives through early detection.”

 Since its inception, the Global Grace Cancer Run has evolved into the world’s largest cancer awareness run, touching the lives of nearly 1.4 crore people across more than 130 countries.

 The Foundation’s vision is to alleviate the cancer burden in society through Education & Awareness, Early Detection, Treatment & Rehabilitation, and Cutting-edge Research.

 The theme for this year’s edition is: “Run for Grace. Screen for Life.”

 The Hyderabad edition is expected to attract around 35,000 participants, while the global event is expected to witness over one lakh participants from more than 130 countries spanning all seven continents.

 Participants can register in 2K, 5K and 10K categories. The event has also earned global recognition with six Guinness World Records.

 Dr. Pedda Reddy Talugula will serve as the Race Director for the 9th edition.

 The event is globally sponsored by Quambiant Developers and powered by Evernorth Health Services.

 More than 400 doctors, healthcare professionals, corporate leaders, cancer survivors, volunteers and supporters attended the launch ceremony, reaffirming their collective commitment to building a cancer-aware society and ensuring that early detection reaches those who need it the most.

 Those interested in participating in the Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 can register online at www.gracecancerrun.com or www.ifinish.in

FIA completes ‘deal of the century’ for FIA World and European Rally Championships

FIA completes ‘deal of the century’ for FIA World and European Rally Championships

 

 

Dubai, UAE, Aug 01: The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, has announced a landmark long-term commercial rights agreement for the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and FIA European Rally Championship (ERC). It follows the acquisition of WRC Promoter GmbH by Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital.

The biggest deal in the history of these championships, this agreement marks a new chapter for the WRC and ERC. Supporting the FIA’s vision under President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, it will bring significant new investment into the sport, helping to strengthen and grow its world-class motor sport portfolio for years to come.

This deal has been designed for the rallying community and developed to deliver real benefits for fans, competitors, event organisers and the FIA’s Member Clubs. Through this agreement, rallying will become more accessible, more competitive, and more commercially successful. As the sport grows, the FIA will continue to focus on the strong governance and regulations that provide the foundations for rallying’s long-term success.

Alongside the FIA, the new promoter team of French automotive technology and services platform Cosmobilis and private credit investor Park Square Capital share a commitment to growing the sport’s global audience and deepening fan engagement. The FIA will also benefit from significantly increased visibility of its brand across events and broadcasts around the world.

This is a pivotal moment for the WRC, which is preparing for a major regulatory overhaul. Next-generation technical regulations, due to take effect in 2027, have been designed to make the sport safer, more competitive and affordable at the highest level, while the establishment of a new FIA Growth Fund will support projects that drive the success and development of rallying worldwide. Through this fund, growth will be felt across motor sport, from the highest levels of the championships to entry-level grassroots participation.

Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital have outlined ambitious plans to take the WRC and ERC to the next level, putting fans at the heart of the sport and making rallying more exciting, accessible, and engaging. Through stronger storytelling, enhanced distribution, and new multi-platform content, fans will be closer to the action than ever before.

To deliver this vision, the new promoter has built a team of experts, led by newly-appointed CEO Éric Boullier, a highly experienced motor sport executive with a track record at the highest levels of international motor sport.

FIA completes ‘deal of the century’ for FIA World and European Rally Championships

 

President of the FIA, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said: “This is truly the deal of the century for rallying, and I am proud to announce this transformative step forward, and never before seen levels of investment.

“Not only will it deliver real benefits to fans, competitors and our member clubs worldwide, but this investment signifies confidence in the future of our sport as its global popularity continues to grow.

“The future of our championships is at the heart of every decision we make, and we have ensured that we not only secure the right partner for today, but one who shares our long-term vision. My thanks to FIA Deputy President for Sport, Malcolm Wilson and his dedicated team for delivering this, and I am looking forward to working closely with our new promoter.

“Rallying is a huge part of my personal story, it has shaped who I am and how I work, and I am deeply committed to its future. This is an important moment for our sport and as we enter a new era I am proud that we have a new partner in place to help us drive forward the bright future of these championships.”

FIA completes ‘deal of the century’ for FIA World and European Rally Championships

 

FIA Deputy President for Sport, Malcolm Wilson OBE, said: “I have spent my entire professional life in the FIA World Rally Championship, so I know exactly what this sport means to its competitors, its organisers, and above all its fans. In over 40 years in the sport, I have never seen investment on this scale into rallying – this deal really is that significant and I’m full of optimism for what it means for the fans, competitors and organisers.

“From the beginning, our focus has been on finding a partner that not only recognises the WRC’s enormous potential, but understands its character, heritage and the responsibility that comes with shaping its future.

“Cosmobilis and Park Square Capital share that ambition. With a new era approaching through the WRC27 regulations, and with the FIA establishing a groundbreaking growth fund to drive the sport’s development, this is a real opportunity to strengthen the championship, grow its global audience, and deliver the kind of future this sport and its fans deserve.”