Tata Chemicals’ CSR initiative Okhai has launched its latest Ajrakh collection, a contemporary reinterpretation of one of India’s oldest and most celebrated textile traditions rooted in the craft heritage of Kutch.

The collection has been developed in collaboration with artisan designer Mubin Khatri and his team from Dhamadka, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and modern design across 19 handcrafted garments. The line has been developed over eight months, focusing on blending heritage techniques with contemporary silhouettes and print innovations.

Crafted in breathable cotton and cotton twill, the collection uses natural dyes and traditional methods such as pothai, where fabrics are hand-painted using natural colours. It also experiments with reimagined block-print techniques, separating outlines and filler blocks to create more dynamic and versatile patterns.

A notable innovation in the collection is the use of Ajrakh on twill cotton denim, offering a modern interpretation of the craft while retaining its cultural identity.

Speaking about the launch, Manorath Dhillon said Ajrakh is deeply rooted in history and community, and the collection aims to evolve the craft for contemporary wardrobes while preserving its authenticity.

Sustainability remains central to the initiative, with natural fabrics, eco-friendly dyes, and reuse of existing blocks to reduce waste. Through this collection, Okhai continues its focus on preserving Indian artisan traditions while making them relevant for modern consumers.

Häfele has introduced its Cronus Digi-Step Hobs, reinforcing everyday kitchen safety through integrated flame protection technology designed for modern cooking environments.

At the core of the product’s safety system is the Flame Failure Safety Device (FFSD), a built-in valve mechanism that automatically activates when the flame goes out unexpectedly, such as due to wind or accidental extinguishing. The system immediately cuts off the gas supply, preventing leakage and ensuring a safer cooking experience without requiring any manual intervention.

The FFSD feature is installed across all burners, offering consistent protection regardless of which cooking zone is in use. This ensures that safety is maintained uniformly during everyday cooking activities, adding reliability to both routine and intensive kitchen use.

By combining practical engineering with user-focused design, Häfele continues to strengthen its position in delivering modern kitchen solutions that balance functionality, efficiency, and safety. The Cronus Digi-Step Hobs reflect the growing emphasis on integrating intelligent safety mechanisms into everyday home appliances, particularly in urban kitchens where convenience and protection go hand in hand

L'Oréal has announced the launch of its 2026 Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program, inviting startups across South Asia Pacific, Middle East and North Africa (SAPMENA) to co-create the future of AI-powered commerce, creator ecosystems, and sustainable beauty solutions.

The global beauty major is positioning the program as a launchpad for scalable innovation, offering selected startups a fully funded commercial pilot with one of its 40 international brands. Winners will also gain access to potential expansion across 35 SAPMENA markets and receive year-long mentorship from senior leadership and ecosystem partners.

Now in its third year, the initiative has already seen seven startups progress to commercial pilots from countries including India, Australia, Singapore, and the UAE.

The 2026 edition focuses on three major industry shifts: AI-powered commerce, creator and affiliate-led ecosystems, and circular economy solutions. Startups can apply under five innovation themes including Connected Brand Experience, Creators & Affiliates, AI-Powered Commerce, Science for Beauty, and Innovation for Good.

Speaking on the initiative, Vismay Sharma, President of L’Oréal SAPMENA Zone, said the region is emerging as a global hub for tech innovation, describing it as a “Silicon Valley for Beauty Tech” driven by digitally native consumers and rapid digital commerce growth.

Jacques Lebel, Managing Director of L'Oréal India, highlighted India’s fast-evolving beauty market and the role of startups in shaping next-generation beauty technology solutions.

Saloni Shah Javeri, Chief Digital and Marketing Officer of L'Oréal India, noted that AI-driven personalization, creator ecosystems, and sustainability-led innovation are redefining how consumers discover and experience beauty.

The program also showcased 2025 winners including Indian startups such as Without and Sravathi AI, alongside global participants like Heatseeker, Halo AI, and Wubble AI, each demonstrating real-world applications ranging from sustainable materials science to AI-driven influencer discovery and real-time customer intelligence.

The SAPMENA region, which accounts for a large digitally active consumer base, is increasingly seen as a testing ground for beauty tech innovation, with strong startup ecosystem growth across India, Singapore, and the Middle East.

Key dates for the 2026 edition include submissions open until 3 July 2026, regional finals between August and September, and a grand finale scheduled in Singapore in November 2026.

The program continues L’Oréal’s broader push to integrate AI, data-driven commerce, and sustainability into the global beauty industry through startup-led innovation partnerships.