Archive: August 3, 2026

Vedanta Aluminium Reports Record Q1 FY27 Performance; Profit Surges 205%, EBITDA More Than Doubles

Vedanta Aluminium Reports Record Q1 FY27 Performance; Profit Surges 205%, EBITDA More Than Doubles

Business Wire India

 

Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited (NSE: VAML, BSE: 544780), one of the world’s leading aluminium producers, today announced record financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, marking a strong debut as an independent listed company following its demerger.

 

The Board of Directors approved the company’s first interim dividend of INR 8 per equity share, taking the cumulative dividend payout for the quarter to over INR 3,000 crore, an uncommon milestone for a newly listed or recently demerged company.

 

 

Revenue reached a record INR 21,105 crore, increasing 13% quarter-on-quarter and 45% year-on-year, driven by higher volumes and improved realizations. EBITDA rose to an all-time high of INR 10,499 crore, up 24% QoQ and 134% YoY, with EBITDA margin expanding to a record 50%. Profit after tax climbed to INR 6,597 crore, an increase of 33% QoQ and 205% YoY. The company also strengthened its balance sheet, with Net Debt-to-EBITDA improving to 0.9x from 1.3x in the previous quarter, while both CRISIL and ICRA upgraded its credit rating to AA+ (Stable).

 

 

Operationally, aluminium production reached a record 632 KT, while value-added products production also achieved an all-time high of 389 KT. Alumina production increased 41% year-on-year to 826 KT, supported by expanded refining capacity and improved asset utilisation.

 

 

Commenting on the results, Rajesh Kumar, Whole-Time Director & CEO, said: “Our first quarter as an independent company reflects disciplined execution, operational resilience and a clear long-term strategy. Our focus on resource security, integrated operations and value-added products continues to strengthen our competitive position and support sustainable growth.”

 

 

Anup Agarwal, CFO, added: “We begin this new phase with record financial performance, a stronger balance sheet and an improved credit profile. These provide a solid foundation to pursue growth opportunities and meet rising global demand for aluminium across energy transition, infrastructure, transportation, packaging and advanced manufacturing.”

 

 

About Vedanta Aluminium Metals Ltd

 

 

Vedanta Aluminium serves customers in more than 60 countries through its integrated aluminium and alumina operations and continues to strengthen its position as a globally competitive producer.

 

 

Vedanta Aluminium Reports Record Q1 FY27 Performance; Profit Surges 205%, EBITDA More Than Doubles

 

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260731149639/en/

 

Vedanta Aluminium Reports Record Q1 FY27 Performance; Profit Surges 205%, EBITDA More Than Doubles

Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society Celebrates 26th Annual Day at University of Hyderabad

“Math Meets Movement”, an innovative dance presentation performed by Ms. P. B. Vaishnavi, Assistant Professor of Dance, GITAM, Hyderabad, and her team

Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society’s 26th Annual Day held at Hyd University & Awards Presented

 

Hyderabad, Aug 3: The Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society (KVRSS), a Hyderabad based 26 years old a non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering scientific inquiry and recognising young talent at school, college, and university levels which is now has become a national platform for promoting curiosity, innovation, and excellence in science celebrated its 26th Annual Day on Saturday at the School of Life Sciences Auditorium, University of Hyderabad, Gachibowli, stated Dr. K. Ratna, Secretary, Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society (KVRSS) in a press note issued in the city today.

The programme was graced by Prof. J. Anuradha, Vice Chancellor, University of Hyderabad, as the Chief Guest. A distinguished Kuchipudi exponent, scholar and educator, she has made significant contributions to dance education and research while leading one of India’s premier universities.

Established in 2001 in memory of Dr. K. V. Rao, a distinguished scientist of the Geological Survey of India and a passionate advocate of multidisciplinary research, KVRSS has spent the last 26 years nurturing scientific temper and promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) among students ranging from school children to young researchers below the age of 30.

One of the highlights of this year’s programme was “Math Meets Movement”, an innovative dance presentation by Ms. P. B. Vaishnavi, Assistant Professor of Dance, GITAM, Hyderabad, and her team. The performance was creatively demonstrated the relationship between mathematics and movement, illustrating how art can become a powerful medium for communicating scientific concepts.

Annual Awards

The Society presented awards to outstanding students for achievements during the academic year 2025–26.

The 26th Annual Research Awards recognised exceptional research in the fundamental sciences by students below the age of 30. This year, 12 awards—three each in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics—were presented. The awards attracted 167 applications from more than 100 institutions across several states.

The 15th SPARK Innovation Awards, designed to encourage scientific innovation among school students, received over 200 project entries. Forty projects were shortlisted for the finals held in Hyderabad, and eight awards—two each in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics—were presented.

The 6th SMART (Science Meets ART) Awards celebrate creativity at the intersection of science and art. This year’s challenge invited students to design board games based on scientific or mathematical concepts to make learning interactive and enjoyable. More than 250 entries were received, from which three winners were honoured.

Apart from these flagship programmes, KVRSS’s Science Innovation Centre and Mobile Science Lab, launched during 2021–22, have together reached over 23,000 students in just four years by taking hands-on science education directly into schools.

GWI report shows wellness as new baseline for Dubai luxury real estate

GWI report shows wellness as new baseline for Dubai luxury real estate

Keturah founder says industry needs to work together to catch up with government vision, market momentum

Dubai, UAE, Aug 3: Dubai’s luxury real estate developers are being urged to treat wellness as the new baseline for how homes are designed and built, as global demand grows for healthier living environments.

The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) says the industry’s next phase is the normalization of health-supportive design as a standard expectation rather than a luxury feature.

It believes the greatest opportunity now lies in closer collaboration between planners, architects, public health leaders and wellness professionals to create homes and communities that proactively support long-term health.

Dubai Luxury developer Keturah has backed the GWI’s findings, saying the shift towards health-focused design presents an opportunity for the wider industry to work together in raising standards, and reinforcing city’s position as a global leader in wellness real estate.

“The next phase for the industry is collaboration rather than competition,” said Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of Keturah. “We need planners, architects, public health leaders and wellness professionals working together, not developers acting alone. Dubai has the government vision and the market momentum to lead this globally, and now the wider industry needs to catch up.”

The GWI’s latest Initiative Trends report projects the global wellness real estate sector will exceed $1 trillion by 2029, reflecting a transition from wellness as a luxury aspiration to evidence-based infrastructure.

Earlier this year, the GWI identified the UAE as one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness real estate markets. It said wellness real estate now represents more than 12% of all construction in the UAE, with the market having grown from $3.3 billion to $14.6 billion between 2017 and 2025.

It also reported that more than 555,000 wellness-focused residential units were in the pipeline at developments across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In Dubai, these include Keturah Reserve, the AED5.7 billion bio-living community in Mohammed Bin Rashid City’s District 7, and the Ritz-Carlton Residences at Keturah Resort beside Dubai Creek, set to become the region’s first wellness-certified waterfront community.

The four main wellness in real estate trends highlighted by the GWI include primal architecture, which uses softer lighting, natural materials and intuitive wayfinding to help shift occupants from stress to calm. Another is neuroarchitecture, which applies neuroscience to understand how light, acoustics and spatial design influence mood, cognition and long-term health.

The GWI also identifies a growing move towards designing out microplastics by replacing synthetic finishes with more natural materials such as wool, stone and solid wood, recognising the built environment as an important part of preventive healthcare.

It also highlights the role of healthier, more walkable communities in supporting mobility, independence and ageing well, with better designed surroundings helping people maintain wellbeing throughout their lives.

 

 

AIIMS Director Emphasises the Real-World Benefits of Mental Arithmetic

AIIMS Director Emphasises the Real-World Benefits of Mental Arithmetic

 

Mangalagiri, August 2, 2026: Over 1,200 children aged between 5 and 14 years showcased extraordinary mental arithmetic skills at SIP Regional Prodigy 2026, one of India’s largest mental arithmetic competitions for children, held at CK Conventions, Mangalagiri, on Sunday.

The competition was inaugurated by Col. Shashikanth Thumma, Director, AIIMS Mangalagiri, in the presence of Sibi Sekhar, Director, SIP Academy India; Uma Swaminathan, Head – New Franchisee Acquisition; Praveen E.G., Regional Business Head – South & Head, International Acquisition; and Jabeer Baig, State Head (Andhra Pradesh), SIP Academy India.

Addressing the gathering, Col. Shashikanth Thumma described the participants as “live supercomputers.”

“You are human calculators, solving sums faster than calculators. This programme develops skills to solve not only mathematics problems but also life’s challenges. My own children are participating in this competition. Practice makes perfect—keep practising, embrace challenges and strive for excellence,” he said.

He added that mental arithmetic builds skills for life beyond mathematics.

AIIMS Director Emphasises the Real-World Benefits of Mental Arithmetic

Speaking on the occasion, Sibi Sekhar, Director, SIP Academy India, said mental arithmetic is more relevant in the Artificial Intelligence era than ever before.

“While AI can provide answers, children still need strong cognitive abilities, logical thinking, concentration, memory and problem-solving skills. Mental arithmetic develops these foundational capabilities, enabling children to think independently and confidently.”

Announcing the organisation’s international expansion, Sibi Sekhar said SIP Academy India has entered the United States, marking a significant milestone for Indian education entrepreneurship.

The organisation will initially serve the Indian diaspora, including a large Telugu community, before expanding to the wider American market. The move positions SIP Academy among a select group of Indian education brands exporting home-grown learning methodologies to global markets.

Across India, SIP Academy currently operates over 1,100 centres, training nearly 1.9 lakh children. Over the next three years, the organisation aims to expand to 2,000 centres and increase enrolment to 3 lakh students.

The academy is also strengthening its international footprint following its entry into the United States while exploring expansion into other overseas markets. 

Uma Swaminathan, Head – New Franchisee Acquisition, said Andhra Pradesh is one of SIP Academy’s priority markets. “We currently operate 25 centres in Andhra Pradesh and plan to double this number to 50 in the coming years,” she said.

Innovation in Testing Concentration

One of the biggest attractions of the competition was the innovative ‘Concentration Round’. As loud music filled the venue, children solved mental arithmetic problems without losing focus. Despite the energetic atmosphere—with participants singing, dancing, cheering and clapping—they completed the calculations with remarkable speed and accuracy, demonstrating that true concentration is the ability to remain focused amid distractions.

 

About SIP Regional Prodigy

SIP Regional Prodigy is the regional championship of the annual SIP Prodigy competition and serves as a qualifying event for the national finals. Participants were tested in mental arithmetic, abacus calculations, multiplication, division, visual arithmetic, speed and accuracy through a series of time-bound challenges. In some categories, students solved up to 300 arithmetic problems in just 11 minutes, showcasing exceptional concentration, memory and calculation speed. The Andhra Pradesh regional winners will qualify for the National SIP Prodigy 2026, to be held in Kochi in November, where nearly 5,000 children from across the country will compete.

Jabeer Baig, State Head (Andhra Pradesh), said around 7,000 children are currently undergoing SIP Abacus training across the state through centres in Vijayawada, Guntur, Mangalagiri, Tirupati, Chittoor, Anantapur, Hindupur, Kadiri, Tadepalli, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Kakinada.

Darsh Labs and Research Earns NABL Accreditation, Reinforcing Commitment to Quality and Scientific Excellence

Bhubaneswar, August 2, 2026: Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd. has reached a major milestone by securing National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation, a prestigious recognition that reflects the laboratory’s commitment to quality, precision, and technical competence in testing services.

The accreditation demonstrates that the laboratory operates under a robust quality management system and follows internationally accepted testing standards, ensuring reliable and accurate results for customers across industries.

This achievement marks a new chapter for Darsh Labs and Research as it continues to expand its portfolio of laboratory services while maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity and customer confidence.

 

Commenting on the accomplishment, Neelakantha Achary, MD of Darsh Labs and Research, said:

“NABL accreditation is more than a certification—it is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, accuracy, and continuous improvement. We are grateful to our dedicated team whose expertise and hard work made this achievement possible. This recognition strengthens our resolve to deliver dependable laboratory services that industries, government agencies, and individuals can trust.”

Over the years, Darsh Labs and Research has invested significantly in advanced analytical instruments, modern laboratory infrastructure, quality assurance systems, and skilled technical professionals. The NABL accreditation validates these efforts and positions the laboratory among India’s trusted testing facilities.

The laboratory provides a wide range of scientific testing services, including:

  • Water Testing
  • Drinking Water Quality Analysis
  • Wastewater Testing
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Air Quality Testing
  • Soil Testing
  • Food Testing
  • Coal and Mineral Analysis
  • Material Testing
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
  • Industrial and Regulatory Compliance Testing

With the accreditation, clients can expect testing services that meet stringent quality benchmarks, offering greater confidence in analytical reports used for regulatory compliance, industrial processes, environmental management, research, and public health initiatives.

Darsh Labs and Research aims to support industries, government departments, infrastructure projects, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and businesses by delivering scientifically accurate and timely testing solutions.

The company also plans to broaden its testing capabilities and strengthen its research initiatives, contributing to safer industries, cleaner environments, and improved quality standards across sectors.

About Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd.

Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd. is one of the best water testing laboratory based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The Darsh Labsoffers comprehensive water testing, inspection, and research services across environmental, industrial, water, food, material, and mineral sectors. Driven by scientific excellence, technological innovation, and customer-centric service, the company is committed to delivering accurate, reliable, and timely laboratory solutions that help organizations make informed decisions and meet regulatory requirements.

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.