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Air India has scrapped all its flights to and from New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport for both Monday, 23 February and Tuesday, 24 February, citing a powerful winter storm bearing down on the US East Coast that has forced widespread travel disruption and grounding of services. The airline said heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous conditions forecast across New York, New Jersey and adjoining states would significantly disrupt airport operations, prompting a precautionary halt to services to prioritise passenger and crew safety.

The cancellations form part of a wider aviation standstill triggered by one of the most intense nor’easter systems to sweep the Northeast this season. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings stretching from Delaware through to Massachusetts, including the New York metropolitan area, where forecasters expect between 30 cm and 61 cm of snow, strong gusts and white-out conditions that threaten to make travel perilous. Municipal authorities have imposed travel bans on non-essential movement and activated emergency measures to cope with the storm’s impact.

Air India’s travel advisory advised travellers booked on affected services to contact the carrier’s support teams for rebooking and assistance, underscoring the airline’s efforts to manage disruption for customers despite the operational freeze. Dedicated ground teams have been deployed at airports to help passengers with alternative arrangements and support. The move mirrors actions by other international carriers, with Emirates and Etihad also cancelling flights to US destinations as the storm hobbles aviation corridors between the Middle East and the United States.

The storm system, dubbed a blizzard by weather authorities, has shut down road travel across much of the Northeast. New York City’s mayor has ordered a citywide ban on non-essential travel during peak weather, while neighbouring New Jersey and several states along the Eastern Seaboard have declared states of emergency, mobilising snow-clearing crews and National Guard units. Public transit services, including buses and commuter rail, face severe curtailments as snowfall rates surge.

Across the region, airports have reported thousands of flight cancellations and delays as shuddered operations ripple outward from the hardest-hit hubs. Alongside Air India’s transatlantic cancellations, major carriers have pulled back services at John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia and Boston Logan International Airports, where airlines have warned passengers to expect prolonged disruption as crews and infrastructure teams work to clear runways and de-ice aircraft.

The National Weather Service’s warnings reflect the storm’s scale. Blizzard alerts encompassing New York City mark the first of their kind in several years for the area, with forecasters noting that coastal flooding, damaging winds and snow loads that can down power lines are all present within the storm’s profile. Some jurisdictions are anticipating snow accumulations that could eclipse seasonal norms, heightening concerns over transportation and emergency response capabilities as attention turns to post-storm recovery.

The pattern of disruption emerging from this event follows a string of significant winter weather episodes across North America in recent weeks, including powerful storms earlier in the winter season that had already stressed transport networks and emergency services. This latest system’s timing and intensity compound logistical challenges for travellers and carriers alike, with airlines adjusting timetables, offering refunds and reshaping schedules as conditions evolve.

“Our knees are subjected to wear and tear over time due to aging, injuries, and repetitive stress,” said Dr Hazli Sufian, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon with Special Interest in Arthroplasty at Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau. “While HA injections can help relieve pain and improve mobility in early-stage osteoarthritis, advanced cases often require knee replacement surgery for long-term relief and function.”

Dr Hazli and his surgical team have replaced conventional techniques with the CORI® robotic-assisted system by Smith+Nephew, an advanced technology designed to enhance precision and personalise knee replacement procedures.

“The CORI® system allows surgeons to capture patient-specific anatomical data in real time, enabling more precise bone preparation and soft tissue balancing,” Dr Hazli explained. “This contributes to improved joint stability, better alignment, and more natural knee movement after surgery.”

Beyond surgical precision, robotic-assisted technology improves the overall patient experience. The personalised approach can lead to reduced tissue disruption, less post-operative pain, and lower risk of complications. Many patients also benefit from enhanced mobility, greater confidence in joint function, and a potentially faster return to daily activities and rehabilitation.

By tailoring each procedure to the patient’s unique anatomy, the CORI® system supports predictable outcomes and consistent surgical results, which are key to long-term patient satisfaction.

Dr James Chong, CEO of Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau, said the introduction of robotic-assisted knee replacement reflects the hospital’s commitment to advancing patient-centred care through innovation.

“Our investment in robotic-assisted surgery enhances not only surgical precision but also the overall patient journey—from pre-operative planning and intra-operative accuracy to post-operative recovery and rehabilitation,” he said. “This technology allows us to deliver high-quality outcomes while improving comfort, confidence, and experience for our patients.”

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About Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau

Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of the Johor community with compassion, professionalism, and clinical excellence. Equipped with advanced medical technology—including a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Mammography services, a 128-slice CT Scan, and a 1.5 Tesla MRI—the hospital delivers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment capabilities to support timely and accurate clinical decision-making.

The hospital offers a broad range of medical specialties, including Cardiology, Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G), Respiratory Medicine, Orthopaedics, and Dermatology. A fully operational 24/7 Emergency Room, supported by on-call Emergency Physicians, ensures that patients receive immediate and appropriate care at any time of the day.

At the core of Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau’s philosophy is a strong commitment to personalized, patient-centred care—ensuring that every individual feels heard, supported, and well cared for throughout their healthcare journey.

Looking ahead over the next five years, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau will align its strategic direction with Rancangan Malaysia Ke-13 (RMK-13), with a focused emphasis on addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). In particular, the hospital will strengthen its efforts in obesity management through integrated, multidisciplinary care models encompassing prevention, early intervention, medical management, surgical intervention and long-term follow-up. This reflects a proactive approach to tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges affecting the Johor community.

In parallel, the hospital has advanced its surgical capabilities through the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery. This investment is aimed at enhancing surgical precision, improving clinical outcomes, reducing recovery times, and elevating overall patient experience, in line with global best practices.

To meet the growing healthcare demands of Johor, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau is also planning for future expansion, including the addition of more inpatient beds. This expansion will enable the hospital to better serve the increasing needs of the community while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and accessibility in care delivery.

Through strategic alignment, technological advancement, and capacity expansion, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau remains committed to supporting the long-term health and well-being of the Johorean population.

About Columbia Asia

For 30 years, Columbia Asia Group of hospitals has been at the forefront of quality healthcare in the private healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it has evolved from its first hospital in Shah Alam to its latest in Penang, to date. As an international healthcare provider, its services span across 19 hospitals in the region; 13 in Malaysia, five in Indonesia, and one in Vietnam. Through the years, the company strategy has always been about making private healthcare accessible to all, hence its hospitals are strategically located in densely populated areas. Under the umbrella of private healthcare company, Asia OneHealthcare, the Columbia Asia group has expanded its reach to bring not just world-class, but also effective healthcare, closer to home.

Through the years, Columbia Asia’s emphasis has consistently been about early detection of diseases. This is carried out by way of advanced technology for precise diagnostics, resulting in minimally invasive procedures. To fulfil the typical healthcare needs of communities, Columbia Asia offers core disciplines such as obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics, and general surgery. Today, it also provides tertiary healthcare addressing more complex fields of medicine such as neurosurgery, cardiac disease treatments, and integrated cancer care.

As it approaches a new decade, Columbia Asia continues to expand; adopting cutting-edge technology to meet the ever-increasing needs of today’s discerning customers. Upholding strict clinical governance, medical ethics and acknowledged by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health, Columbia Asia continues to deliver excellent patient outcomes in a safe and trusted environment.

Columbia Asia. Right Here For You.

OpenAI has announced a sweeping expansion of its global education strategy by forging deep partnerships with a group of India’s most influential higher education institutions to embed artificial intelligence tools, training and research into campus life and academic workflows. The initiative, unveiled in New Delhi this week, aims for institutional transformation by offering enterprise-grade AI access and structured integration support across disciplines including engineering, management, health sciences and creative industries.

The programme brings together six premier universities — Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies and Pearl Academy — under a coordinated effort to build AI fluency and responsible usage skills for students, faculty and staff. The roll-out will provide secure access to ChatGPT Edu, detailed onboarding programmes, faculty training and discipline-specific implementation guidance aligned with institutional policies.

This shift marks a deliberate departure from ad-hoc access to consumer AI tools toward embedding artificial intelligence as an academic backbone to teaching, research, evaluation and campus operations. OpenAI’s Head of Education for India and Asia Pacific, Raghav Gupta, said the collaboration reflects a broader need to close the gap between what AI tools are capable of and how they are actually used. He referenced projections that by 2030 a significant portion of core skills relied upon by workers globally will be redefined by AI, underscoring the urgency for deep institutional readiness.

At IIT Delhi, the partnership will focus on engineering-led innovation and applied research, integrating AI capabilities into project-based learning, coding, simulations and prototype development. The institute also plans OpenAI-supported hackathons and ‘Industry Days’ designed to link student innovation with India’s manufacturing and deep-technology ecosystem. IIM Ahmedabad intends to embed AI fluency into core management education — spanning strategy, finance, operations and public policy — with scope for certification pathways backed by the collaboration.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi is positioning AI as a tool for medical education and clinical training, exploring applications in clinical documentation, simulation-based learning and evidence synthesis. Officials at the institute said prioritising safe, ethical deployment of AI in clinical settings will be critical to maintaining educational and professional standards. Manipal Academy of Higher Education will pursue multidisciplinary AI literacy across engineering, health sciences and business programmes, while UPES and Pearl Academy will tailor integration to applied innovation and creative workflow environments respectively.

OpenAI’s strategy extends beyond campuses to partnerships with major education technology platforms, including upGrad, PhysicsWallah and HCL GUVI. These collaborations aim to launch structured courses on AI fundamentals and practical ChatGPT applications targeting students and early-career professionals who are not formally enrolled in partner institutions. The move reflects a growing industry recognition that AI skills must be scaled across the broader learner base, not just within elite universities.

Experts in education and technology policy see this initiative as part of a larger global trend where leading artificial intelligence firms are moving from consumer-oriented models toward institutional engagement that shapes long-term adoption and usage norms. By embedding AI literacy into the frameworks of higher education, these alliances could influence curriculum design, research priorities and the preparation of graduates for an AI-driven economy.

Industry analysts note that India’s higher education system represents one of the world’s largest talent markets, with millions of students entering the workforce each year. Integrating advanced AI tools into academic settings could enhance learning outcomes, deepen research capacity and create new pathways for innovation across sectors. However, some critics caution that rapid adoption must be matched with robust ethical and governance frameworks to address concerns around data privacy, academic integrity and equitable access to technology.

While OpenAI estimates that this phase of the initiative will directly benefit over 100,000 students, educators and administrators across its core partner institutions over the coming year, independent observers emphasise that the broader impact will depend on how well universities and ed-tech partners can operationalise the technology within existing academic structures. They point to the need for ongoing investment in faculty development, infrastructure and policy frameworks that ensure AI augments rather than disrupts pedagogical goals.

By Nantoo Banerjee There is little to be excited about the defence ministry’s latest clearance for the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets from France at a huge cost of Rs.3.25 lakh crore (nearly $40 billion), branded as ‘mother of all defence deals’. It is a matter of major concern that even 78 years after […]

The article India’s Reliance On Imported Arms For Defence Is A Concern appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Artificial intelligence is being positioned as a catalytic force in reshaping biomanufacturing, with policymakers, scientists and industry leaders outlining a roadmap that blends computational power with biological science to accelerate drug discovery, industrial enzymes and sustainable materials. Discussions at the India AI Impact Summit placed BioAI at the centre of a strategy aimed at using genomics, in-silico modelling and closed data loops to build scalable and trusted production systems.

The convergence of AI and biology has moved from laboratory experimentation to commercial ambition. India’s biotechnology sector, valued at over $80 billion and targeting significant expansion by the end of the decade under the BioE3 policy framework, is seeking to harness machine learning tools to shorten development cycles that traditionally take years. Speakers at the summit argued that AI-enabled simulation and predictive modelling can reduce trial-and-error experimentation in fields ranging from vaccine development to precision fermentation.

BioAI refers to the integration of artificial intelligence techniques with biological data, particularly genomic sequencing, proteomics and metabolic engineering. The approach relies on large datasets and advanced algorithms capable of identifying patterns invisible to conventional research methods. Advances in protein structure prediction, including breakthroughs in computational biology over the past few years, have demonstrated how neural networks can model complex molecular interactions with remarkable accuracy.

At the summit, researchers described how generative AI systems are being trained to design novel proteins and enzymes tailored for industrial use. By feeding genomic datasets into predictive algorithms, scientists can simulate biological pathways in silico before conducting physical experiments. This method reduces costs and speeds up scaling, particularly in biopharmaceutical production and alternative protein manufacturing.

Government representatives outlined plans to expand national AI infrastructure to support such applications. IndiaAI Mission initiatives include the creation of high-performance computing resources and domain-specific data repositories to ensure that biotech firms and research institutes have access to secure and interoperable datasets. Officials emphasised that trust frameworks and regulatory clarity would be essential to encourage private investment while safeguarding data privacy and biosafety standards.

Industry leaders echoed that sentiment, highlighting that biomanufacturing requires rigorous validation. Unlike digital products, biological outputs interact with living systems, making quality control paramount. AI-driven feedback loops—where laboratory results continuously refine algorithms—were presented as a mechanism to maintain reliability while scaling up production. Data integrity, traceability and auditability were recurring themes, reflecting global debates about AI governance.

The global context underscores the strategic significance of BioAI. The United States and European Union have invested heavily in synthetic biology and AI-assisted drug discovery. China has also advanced computational genomics and large-scale fermentation capabilities. Analysts note that countries able to combine AI talent with robust biotech ecosystems stand to capture a growing share of the global bioeconomy, projected by several industry reports to exceed $4 trillion over the coming decade.

India’s strength in information technology services and pharmaceutical manufacturing offers a foundation for this convergence. The country is a major supplier of generic medicines and vaccines, supported by a network of research institutions and startups. By integrating AI tools into these value chains, stakeholders believe production timelines can be compressed and new therapeutic molecules identified with greater precision.

Academic voices at the summit stressed the importance of interdisciplinary training. Biologists must understand algorithmic thinking, while data scientists need grounding in molecular biology. Collaborative platforms linking universities, startups and established pharmaceutical firms were proposed to ensure knowledge transfer and talent development. Investment in computational biology curricula and shared research facilities is seen as critical to sustaining momentum.

Ethical considerations formed part of the dialogue. AI models trained on genomic data raise questions about consent, ownership and equitable benefit sharing. Experts argued for transparent governance structures aligned with international norms, noting that trust is fundamental when dealing with health-related information. Regulatory agencies are exploring how to evaluate AI-generated biological designs within existing approval pathways.

Private sector participation is accelerating. Venture capital funding in biotech startups leveraging machine learning has grown steadily, reflecting confidence in AI-assisted discovery platforms. Companies are experimenting with digital twins of biological systems, enabling simulation of fermentation processes before industrial deployment. Such capabilities can enhance efficiency and reduce resource consumption, aligning with sustainability goals.

Sustainability featured prominently in discussions on biomanufacturing. AI-optimised microbes can produce bio-based chemicals and materials that substitute fossil-derived inputs. Precision fermentation techniques, guided by predictive analytics, may lower energy use and waste. As global supply chains face pressure to decarbonise, the combination of AI and biotechnology is viewed as a pathway to cleaner industrial production.

Participants also highlighted challenges. High-quality biological datasets remain fragmented, and interoperability across laboratories is uneven. Ensuring cybersecurity in research networks is another concern, given the sensitivity of genetic information. Scaling laboratory successes to commercial volumes demands capital expenditure and regulatory compliance that can deter smaller enterprises.

Showcasing Spectacular Entertainment and Chinese Cultural Performances, Featuring Renowned Chinese Artist “Zhu Zhengting” to Bless the People of Thailand in the Heart of the City

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 February 2026 – Siam Paragon, Thailand’s premier global landmark and the top destination in the hearts of Thai people and international tourists, has partnered with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Kasikornbank, ushers in a grand celebration for the Year of the Horse. The event “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026,” bringing an array of rare cultural performances from China to offer a magnificent experience in the heart of Bangkok, The celebration also features special performances by leading Thai artists and an exclusive appearance from Chinese superstar “Zhu Zhengting,” who flew in to deliver New Year blessings to Thai fans at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon.

The Grand Opening Ceremony, held on 14 February 2026, was honored by the presence of Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside Mr. Han Zhiqiang, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand, who both joined in delivering Chinese New Year blessings. Also in attendance were Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT); Chadatip Chutrakul, Chief Executive Officer of Siam Piwat Group; and Mayuree Chaipromprasith, President of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., all gathered amidst a grand and festive atmosphere. The event captivated the audience with special performances, including “Chinese New Year Welcome Dance” from China and the “Siam Noble Steed Dance” from Thailand, symbolizing the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. The celebration also featured rare and exquisite Chinese cultural showcases from four renowned troupes originating from Beijing, Chongqing, Henan, and Fujian.

The highly anticipated highlight was the appearance of renowned Chinese artist “Zhu Zhengting,” who joined the festivities to wish fans wealth, happiness, and prosperity for the year ahead, while delivering a special performance as a New Year gift. Additionally, the celebration featured mini-concerts by leading Thai T-Pop artists, including Better Weather and Daou Pittaya, who brought joy and left a lasting impression amidst the spectacular sight of giant auspicious lanterns illuminating the entire of Parc Paragon.

The grand celebration of “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026″ presents a magnificent parade of entertainment to deliver joy and prosperity for the Year
of the Horse, running from today until 18 February 2026. In addition to the spectacular colors of giant auspicious lanterns and exquisite cultural performances from the People’s Republic of China, there are concerts from leading Thai artists performing on a rotating schedule to provide non-stop fun at Parc Paragon and Fashion Hall.

The lineup includes:

1. 15 February 2026: Enjoy performances by HERS and MEAN Band;
2. 16 February 2026: Meet 2Ectasy, Jeffy, Kakagoesbackhome, and Slapkiss;
3. 17 February 2026: Have fun with SERIOUS BACON and Klear;
4. 18 February 2026: Concluding with Wanyai and OABNITHI.

Simultaneously, Siam Paragon is packed with activities to enhance luck and wealth across various areas, featuring many more highlights such as:

• Be mesmerized by the art installation “The Fortune Guardians,” depicting a pair of lions in a rhythmic and lively spirit of celebration, created by Suthipa Kamyam, a renowned artist and illustrator who has collaborated with numerous international brands. She has transformed the Jewel zone and Cascade on the M Floor into an artistic landmark for the Chinese New Year, symbolizing the opening of gates to welcome positive energy, inviting luck and joy to flow in and reach all visitors.
• The Sculpture Exhibition by Ren Zhe: This exhibition features the work of the renowned Chinese sculptor, celebrated for his masterful fusion of Eastern cultural roots with a contemporary global perspective. His powerful sculptures are imbued with dynamic movement, harmoniously communicating Eastern philosophical values through modern materials. The exhibition will be on display from 5 March 2026 at the Glass Wall on the M Floor.
• NEXTOPIA, the prototype for the world of tomorrow, welcomes the Chinese New Year festival with the heartwarming concept “Let Good Things Grow: Lucky in Love, Lucky in Green.” This initiative invites everyone to share positive energy through self-care, meaningful connection with others, and sustainable growth alongside the planet. Visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary interactive activities and workshops that are engaging and accessible to all ages. We invite you to fulfill your special moments at NEXTOPIA with eco-friendly, heart-healthy menus amidst a romantic atmosphere and melodies —perfect for hanging out until midnight.
• For those seeking spiritual guidance and an opportunity to give back, the Siriwattana Cheshire Foundation under the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen presents the “Siriwattana Fortune Telling for the Disabled” charity event. To welcome the Year of the Horse, the event features 40 renowned experts specializing in various disciplines. The event takes place from February 13–20, 2026, at Crystal Court, 2nd Floor (North Zone), Siam Paragon, from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Fortune-telling tickets are available at the venue for 400 THB.

Beyond the exceptional experiences offered across all zones, Siam Paragon delights shoppers with the exclusive “A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026,” promotion, running from today until 22 February 2026, featuring discounts of up to 50% at participating stores. Shoppers meeting the spending requirements can receive Siam Gift Cards and Paragon Department Store Cash Coupons with a total value of up to THB 1,700. Special privileges are also available for Kasikornbank credit cardholders, while ONESIAM members can earn 4x ONESIAM Coins upon qualifying spend, along with up to 15% credit cashback from participating credit cards, or 0% interest installments for up to 6 months on Siam Gift Card purchases.

Additionally, the special “Lucky with Love” promotion will run from today until 17 February 2026. Shoppers meeting the spending requirements can redeem Siam Gift Cards and Paragon Department Store Cash Coupons with a total value of up to THB 31,800, plus an additional bonus of up to 1,550 ONESIAM Coins when spending via ONESIAM KBank Credit Cards. Furthermore, purchases of THB 2,000 or more will be rewarded with an extra Ang Pao (containing gift vouchers or discount coupons from participating stores). For top spenders at participating luxury brands, an exceptional prize of 2 Baht weight of gold, valued at THB 149,500 (price as of 26 January 2026), will be awarded to those with a cumulative spend of THB 4 million or more.

Experience the grandeur of the Chinese New Year celebration, a spectacular and radiant start to a prosperous Year of the Horse at “Siam Paragon A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026.” Join the festivities at Siam Paragon from today until 20 February 2026. For more information, please visit Facebook: SiamParagon

Hashtag: #SiamParagon #SiamParagonCNY2026

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