BBDU Strengthens Its Position as Lucknow’s Leading Placement Destination with Offers from Infosys and Wipro

In the latest placement drive, Wipro selected BBDU students for the role of Customer Service Representative, Human Resource Outsourcing. Meanwhile, students secured placements with Infosys at packages of Rs. 9.50 lakh per annum and Rs. 6.25 lakh per annum.
 

The students selected at Rs. 9.50 lakh per annum have been offered the role of Specialist Programmer L1 (Trainee), while those receiving Rs. 6.25 lakh per annum have been selected as Digital Specialist Engineer (Trainee). These placements reflect the University’s continued focus on equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge, technical expertise and the professional competencies required to succeed in a rapidly evolving employment landscape.
 

Commenting on the placements, Viraj Sagar Das, Pro-Chancellor, Babu Banarasi Das University, said, “At BBDU, our focus has always been to ensure that education translates into meaningful career opportunities. These placements with leading organizations such as Infosys and Wipro reflect the strength of our academic ecosystem, industry engagement and continued efforts to prepare students for the future of work. We are proud to see our students take confident steps towards successful professional careers and contribute to the growing talent ecosystem of Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh.”
 

BBDU’s strong placement ecosystem is supported by its industry-aligned curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, advanced academic infrastructure, career mentoring and structured corporate engagement. Through its robust Corporate Connect Programme, the University enables students to engage with industry experts, participate in internships and live projects, and gain exposure to evolving workplace expectations.
 

With a legacy of nearly three decades in education, BBDU continues to build a strong bridge between academia and industry. The University’s multidisciplinary approach, emphasis on emerging technologies, innovation-led learning, and extensive corporate engagement enable students to develop both domain expertise and workplace readiness.
 

To date, more than 1,200 companies have recruited from BBDU, resulting in over 12,500 placement offers, with the highest package reaching Rs. 48 lakh per annum. The latest placements further reinforce BBDU’s commitment to creating strong career pathways for its students and strengthening Lucknow’s position as a growing hub for skilled, future-ready talent.

About Babu Banarasi Das University (BBDU), Lucknow
Babu Banarasi Das (BBD) University, Lucknow, is a premier multidisciplinary institution committed to academic excellence, innovation and holistic education. Since its establishment in 2010, the University has built a strong reputation for delivering quality education across diverse disciplines, including engineering, management, law, pharmacy, architecture, dental sciences, applied sciences, humanities and social sciences. By integrating academic rigour with research, industry collaboration and experiential learning, BBD University equips students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to excel in an evolving global environment. Through its emphasis on scholarship, leadership and community engagement, the University continues to prepare graduates who contribute meaningfully to society and the nation's progress.

As India commemorates its landmark 80th Independence Day, EuroKids Preschool, India's leading preschool, brought together 1,25,000+ young learners with 15,000+ educators across 2,000+ centres in 550+ cities for one of the country's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations. Through a specially curated experiential learning program, children explored the values of unity, diversity, pride and responsible citizenship in ways that were engaging, age-appropriate and deeply meaningful.

Proudly dressed in their little patriotic spirit, EuroKids children celebrated Independence Day with pride and unity

For EuroKids, the milestone carried a message closer to home. Just as India's 80-year journey has been built one formative step at a time, a child's own journey towards independence, confidence and self-reliance begins far earlier than most parents realise. Early childhood research suggests that nearly 90% of a child's brain development takes place between the ages of two and six, making these years the most receptive window for building language, social skills, emotional regulation and a sense of identity. It is a belief central to EuroKids' philosophy: that starting structured, play-based learning at age 2, rather than waiting for formal schooling to begin, gives children the strongest foundation to grow into confident, independent individuals.

At a time when educators and parents alike are placing greater emphasis on nurturing character alongside academics, EuroKids transformed the national celebration into an immersive learning experience where children didn't just celebrate Independence Day, they experienced its values through storytelling, movement, collaborative play and hands-on exploration. Designed as part of the brand's month-long Awesome August initiative, the celebrations reflected the evolving role of early childhood education in helping children build empathy, confidence, respect, and a sense of belonging from an early age.

Across EuroKids centres, children participated in a vibrant Tricolour Kite Festival, sending colourful kites carrying messages of hope, unity and freedom into the skies. Younger learners, some as young as two, discovered the significance of the national flag through interactive tricolour sensory play, while a specially designed patriotic obstacle course featuring saffron hoops, a green tunnel and an Ashoka Chakra spin, combined physical activity with purposeful learning, encouraging teamwork, resilience and confidence, even in the very youngest of EuroKids' toddlers.

The celebrations also featured a Mini Patriotic Parade, where children proudly marched with the national flag, and the 'Unity in Diversity' Ramp Walk, where they represented different Indian states in traditional attire, celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage. Through these collaborative experiences, children developed a deeper appreciation of India's diversity while understanding that unity remains one of the nation's greatest strengths.

KVS Seshasai, CEO, Pre-K Division, Lighthouse Learning (EuroKids), said, “As India celebrates 80 years of Independence, we have a unique opportunity to help the next generation understand the values that have shaped our nation. Children begin developing their understanding of identity, empathy and belonging as early as the age of two, making these formative years the ideal time to introduce them to the importance of unity, respect and responsible citizenship. At EuroKids, we believe these values, and the quiet confidence to think and act independently, are best nurtured not through instruction alone, but through joyful, immersive experiences that encourage children to observe, participate, question and connect with the world around them, right from their very first years at preschool.”

The celebrations formed part of Awesome August, EuroKids' flagship month-long learning initiative that brings together key cultural, environmental and social occasions, including Friendship Day, Independence Day, Sustainability Week and Raksha Bandhan, to help children develop life skills through meaningful experiences. By integrating these celebrations into everyday learning, EuroKids enables children to build empathy, collaboration, curiosity and social awareness while creating lasting memories with their peers, teachers and families.

Rooted in Heureka – The Visible Thinking Curriculum, inspired by Harvard University's Project Zero and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Independence Day celebrations reflected EuroKids' commitment to experiential learning that nurtures cognitive, emotional and social development from the toddler years onward. Rather than viewing national festivals as standalone events, the curriculum transforms them into opportunities for children, from age 2, to think critically, express themselves confidently and develop a lifelong appreciation for India's culture, diversity and shared values.

As the nation celebrated 80 years of Independence, EuroKids reaffirmed its commitment to giving children the Right Start to their own journey of independence, one that begins as early as age 2 and prepares them not only for school, but for life. By bringing together children and their families in one of India's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations, the brand continues to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire young learners to grow into confident, compassionate and responsible citizens of tomorrow.

To mark this historic milestone, EuroKids is offering parents a festive Independence Day fee benefit on new enrolments for toddlers as young as two years old, giving them the Right Start to their learning journey. Visit your nearest EuroKids centre to know more.

About EuroKids Preschool

EuroKids, India's Leading Preschool Brand, has revolutionised early childhood education for over 25 years across 2,000+ preschools in 550 cities and three countries. With the launch of its latest 8th curriculum, ‘Heureka’, EuroKids introduces the Visible Thinking Curriculum, based on Harvard University’s Project Zero and aligned with NEP 2020. Heureka empowers children with critical and creative thinking skills through 20 structured Thinking Routines, nurturing holistic growth across Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, and Spiritual dimensions. Supported by the Buddy’s World app, which supports balanced cognitive development, EuroKids remains at the forefront of early childhood education, helping children develop essential life skills from as early as age 2. Its successful franchise model also enables aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive in the education sector, expanding access to quality education.

The Group

Lighthouse Learning Group, formerly known as EuroKids International, is India's leading Early Childhood & K-12 Education group, backed by global investment firm KKR. Driven by its purpose to unlock human potential by igniting the love for learning through its institutions, which include leading brands like EuroKids Preschool, Kangaroo Kids Preschool, EuroSchool, Billabong High International, Centre Point Group of Schools, Heritage International Xperiential School, Heritage Xperiential Learning School and Finland International School Maldives. Nurturing over 200,000 students every day, Lighthouse Learning emphasises a 'Child First' philosophy, innovative pedagogy, and child safety. With 2,000 Preschools and 60 K-12 Schools, it empowers 1,850 women entrepreneurs and employs a direct and indirect workforce of over 25,000 people.

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading retail financiers in the country, introduced three new TV commercials (TVC) with the tagline, ‘Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo, L&T Finance Gold Loan Karo,’ featuring its brand ambassador, Jasprit Bumrah. Through this campaign, LTF will drive awareness for its Gold Loan offerings and empower individuals, micro-entrepreneurs, and households to unlock the value of their idle gold to fuel their growth, aspirations, and dreams.

 L&T Finance launches an Integrated Marketing Campaign in key markets in eight states and one union territory in the country

The TVC will be launched during the upcoming India vs Sri Lanka test series to be held from August 15, 2026 onwards. As the ‘Co-presenting’ partner for the series, LTF will be amplifying the campaign across on-ground and TV channels during the matches. The TVC will be aired on Sony TV Broadcast Network across its nine Linear TV channels. 

The newly launched commercials are a light-hearted three-film series, effortlessly blending humour with the realities of modern financial aspirations. Cricketer Jasprit Bumrah features as a trusted problem solver. In the first film, he advises a struggling farmer to leverage a gold loan and expand his livestock to boost his income. In the second scenario, he encourages a nosy homemaker to stop putting her dreams on hold and use Gold Loan to bring home the consumer durables she has always wished for. And, in the third film, he guides a Kirana store owner to restock his depleting inventory and scale up operations.

Mr. Raju Dodti, Chief Operating Officer and Whole-time Director at LTF, said “As L&T Finance continues its transformation into a Risk-first, Tech-first, AI-native retail financial institution under our Lakshya 2031 strategy, Gold Finance serves as one of the key drivers of our growth agenda. Reflecting this momentum, our high-yielding, secured gold loan portfolio grew by an impressive 182% YoY to Rs. 3,829 Crore in Q1FY27, up from Rs. 1,360 Crore in Q1FY26, backed by 343 active Gold Finance branches, with a plan to take total Gold Finance branches to over 800 in this financial year. This campaign allows us to tap into emerging markets, deepen customer connection, and ensure a sustained upward trajectory in the coming years.”

Ms. Kavita Jagtiani, Chief Marketing Officer at LTF, said, “Today’s consumers are aspirational, yet increasingly value-conscious in how they approach credit. Gold Loans sit perfectly at this intersection- offering a safe and smart way to achieve the goals using an asset they already trust. India holds a vast amount of idle household gold; there is immense opportunity to turn these savings into active growth. With the ‘Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo, L&T Finance Gold Loan Karo’ campaign, we want to showcase gold as a source of real financial utility that helps individuals move forward with confidence. We are confident this campaign will meaningfully resonate with audiences across the country, reinforcing our position as a trusted financial partner.”

The Company has launched an integrated marketing campaign to cover key markets in eight states and a union territory, reaching consumers through approximately 150 branches of LTF. For its on-ground and experiential engagement, LTF is rolling out branded vehicles as the 'Sapno ki Sunehri Gaadi' across high-footfall areas to spark curiosity. This experiential branding creates a tangible touchpoint for rural audiences. Complementing this is the transit media branding across buses and autorickshaws, extending the brand's footprint deep into local markets.

Taking the narrative to the streets, LTF also plans to deploy street props such as park benches as gold-branded canvases, creating hyperlocal visibility. LTF is also spotlighting high-footfall branches across all zones with immersive, 360-degree branding designed for maximum recall. 

To boost its digital presence and reach local audiences, LTF is using real-time shopping signals by playing custom promotional jingles at checkout counters of local shops during live payment transactions. The overall media strategy blends high-reach video platforms with deep-rooted integration across Tier 2 and Tier 3 vernacular channels, enlisting regional creators to bring relatable, real-life financial moments to life in the languages audiences are most comfortable with.

To watch the TV commercials, click here: 

• Kheti Badhane Ka Sapna | Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

• Bada TV Ho Ya Bada Fridge | Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

• Business Badhana Hai? Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo

To apply for ‘L&T Finance Gold Loan’, please give missed call on +91 7045180180 or visit our website www.ltfinance.com.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)
L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) ( www.LTFINANCE.com ), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has affirmed LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women's empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on transforming into a Risk-first, Technology-first, AI-native Retail financial services institution as part of the Lakshya 2031 strategic plan. The Company has over 2.9 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance
X: x.com/LnTFinance
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Celebrating 80 years of India’s freedom, Hyderabad’s ultra-luxury real estate developer reimagines the national anthem through a symphony of more than 50 sounds captured from across the nation

Conceptualised and created by Chennai-based ‘Be Positive 24 Innovation Design, the new campaign uses more than 50 distinct sounds captured from across the country, the sound of a rocket launching, a passing train, birds, school bells, temple bells, streets, people, musical instruments, nature and movement, to together become one song in the tune of the national anthem.

“India is our home, and this is a musical tribute to our beautiful home, on her birthday. As a developer, we have always tried to create delight through innovation. We wanted to do something that was simple in thought, but powerful in emotion. We know that the world is listening to India,” said Sidharth Reddy Indukuri, CEO, The World at Jubilee Hills.

“We recorded over 100 sounds and spent weeks experimenting with them, selecting the ones that could come together musically and meaningfully. The sound and film went through more than 35 iterations. It took us nearly 100 days and multiple partners to put everything together. It was painstaking, sometimes maddening, but incredibly rewarding,” said Abhishek D Shah, Founder, Be Positive 24 Innovation Design.

The campaign film will go live on August 12, 2026, on The World at Jubilee Hills’ YouTube channel and will be amplified across the brand’s social media platforms. From August 13 onwards, the campaign will be further extended through an influencer-led activation, bringing relevant creators and pages into the conversation and taking this musical tribute to India’s unity and diversity to a wider audience.

Website: theworldjh.com

Youtube Campaign Video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=byuG2ST7P3s&feature=youtu.be

M3M Foundation planting over 1 lakh trees this monsoon taking forward ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’

The Foundation aims to plant 1 lakh+ trees, engaging 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and Tauru Block with local communities, including locations in and around the Aravalli landscape.

The initiative will begin across Ghata, Kadarpur, Ullawas, Ramgarh, Bahrampur and Bailyawas, bringing local communities together around a shared vision for greener and more sustainable villages. Local leaders Govardhan from Ghata, Satbir from Ullawas, Sanjeet from Kadarpur and Giriraj from Bahrampur are supporting the initiative and helping mobilise residents to participate in the plantation and take collective responsibility for the trees. Their involvement reflects Sankalp’s belief that lasting environmental change is strongest when it is led and nurtured at the community level.

The initiative is designed to make the most of the monsoon season while ensuring that plantation translates into sustained environmental action. Communities and Panchayats will be mobilised not only to participate in planting but also to take responsibility for the subsequent care, protection and nurturing of the trees, creating a stronger foundation for their long-term survival.

The campaign builds on M3M Foundation’s experience of connecting environmental conservation with an emotional sense of responsibility. Inspired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, Sankalp introduced “Ek Ped Ghar Ke Bachche Ya Bachchi Ke Naam” across villages of Tauru Block in Nuh, Haryana. The initiative encourages families to dedicate a tree to every son or daughter, creating an emotional bond between the family and the tree and encouraging them to nurture it as it grows.

Taking this philosophy forward, the new plantation drive will bring 11 Panchayats and communities together in a wider stewardship effort, extending responsibility beyond the day of plantation and making local participation central to sustaining the green cover created through the campaign.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “The monsoon gives us the opportunity to put thousands of saplings into the ground, but the real responsibility begins once they are planted. A tree needs more than soil and rain, it needs people who are willing to care for it. ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ has shown us the power of connecting environmental action with emotion, and through Sankalp we are turning that connection into community stewardship. With 1 lakh+ trees being planted across 11 Panchayats in Gurugram, we want every sapling to have a story, a community behind it and the opportunity to grow into a lasting green legacy. Our aim is not simply to plant more trees, but to inspire more people to take ownership of the environment around them.”

The initiative adds to the significant environmental footprint of Sankalp, which has facilitated the plantation of more than 6.7 lakh trees across six states, including over 1.70 lakh trees across 54 Panchayats. The programme has also undertaken Miyawaki forests, orchard-based agroforestry, restoration of degraded landscapes, biodiversity enhancement and groundwater recharge, reflecting an integrated approach to ecological restoration.

The latest campaign will contribute to strengthening green cover across Gurugram while supporting the ecological landscape around the Aravallis. By involving communities directly, it also seeks to foster everyday environmental stewardship and reinforce the principles of Mission LiFE and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

With the monsoon planting season underway, 1 lakh+ trees targeted and 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and coming together, M3M Foundation aims to turn a seasonal opportunity into a lasting environmental commitment, creating greener spaces today and communities that continue to nurture them tomorrow.

Through Sankalp, M3M Foundation believes that the strongest green legacy is one that communities plant, protect and pass on.

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

The story follows four close friends whose lives take an unexpected turn as love, friendship, hidden secrets and shocking events unfold. At its centre is Prem, a young man struggling with childhood trauma and a fractured personality, who becomes entangled in a web of mystery, deception and unsettling truths. Blending suspense, romance, humour and emotional drama, the film also delivers a powerful message on responsible parenting, emotional well-being and the long-lasting effects of childhood experiences.

Leading the film is debutant Tejas Dev, a young and promising actor making his Bollywood debut with Oye Chill Maar. He is joined by popular television faces Ssshrey Pareek, known for Paanch: 5 Wrongs Make a Right, Ye Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Qurbaan Hua; Shikha Pandey, recognised for Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, Mehndi Wala Ghar and Mannat: Har Khushi Paane Ki; and Prachi Bansal, known for Thapki Pyar Ki 2 and Shrimad Ramayan. The ensemble is further supported by talented actors Atul Tiwari, Sujeet Asthana, Prashant Mohite and Sufiya, who add further depth and authenticity to the film's narrative.

Marking an auspicious beginning to the promotions, the entire cast and crew recently visited Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, where they also unveiled the film's first poster. The fresh and intriguing poster has generated excitement within the team, offering an impactful introduction to the ensemble while hinting at the film's mystery, emotions and youthful energy.

 With the film now cleared by the Censor Board, Oye Chill Maar is all set to arrive in theatres on 4th September 2026. Blending suspense, humour, emotion and socially relevant themes, the film promises an engaging, edge-of-the-seat cinematic experience. The team is hopeful that the film's auspicious start, strong performances and compelling narrative will strike a chord with audiences and translate into a successful theatrical run.

From celebrity arrivals and candid conversations to unexpected viral moments, Harshit was right in the middle of the action. The night became even bigger when he was honoured with the “Best Emerging Bollywood Host” award, presented by Dr. Yogesh Lakhani, CMD, Bright Outdoor Media.

From Viral Red Carpet to Award-Winning Moment

The evening became a social-media talking point after Nikita Rawal was unexpectedly kissed by a fan on camera during the red-carpet proceedings.

Soon after the incident, Harshit was seen interacting with Nikita and shaking hands with her on camera. The clip quickly circulated online, with viewers asking:

“Who is the guy?”

As the reel picked up steam, Harshit’s identity as the red-carpet host became part of the buzz. And in a perfect Bollywood-style twist, the same night ended with him taking home the Best Emerging Bollywood Host trophy.

Viral moment. Red-carpet spotlight. Award trophy. Quite a night for the host!

From 2007 to Bollywood’s Red Carpet

Harshit began his media journey in 2007 and has since built a career spanning television, celebrity interviews, live entertainment and red-carpet hosting.

His television journey includes appearances on Channel V’s Dare 2 Date and MTV’s Love School. He later carved a niche as a celebrity host, working across award shows, fashion events, premieres, corporate entertainment and high-profile celebrity gatherings.

A recent career highlight was hosting the Filmfare Punjabi Awards 2025 red carpet in Mohali, where he interacted with personalities including Jimmy Sheirgill, Sharan Kaur, Yogesh Lakhani and DJ Sumit Sethi.

His celebrity interview portfolio includes names such as Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Sunny Deol, Tiger Shroff, Randeep Hooda, Karan Singh Grover, Neha Dhupia, Shamita Shetty, Guru Randhawa, Raftaar, Daisy Shah and Gaurav Gera, among others.

A Face Beyond the Red Carpet

Harshit is also known as The VOY — Voice of Youth, through which he has promoted Northeast India, its culture, talent and stories to a wider audience. He is also the founder of Delhi Fashion Club, with experience across fashion and entertainment events.

However, his latest recognition firmly puts the spotlight on his growing Bollywood hosting career.

“This Recognition Motivates Me”

Speaking about the honour, Harshit said:

“Receiving the Best Emerging Bollywood Host award is a very special moment for me. I started my media journey in 2007, and after years of learning, challenges and opportunities, this recognition from the entertainment fraternity means a lot. I’m grateful to everyone who believed in my work. This motivates me to create bigger and more memorable moments on the red carpet.”

Is Bollywood’s Next Hot Red-Carpet Host Here?

With the viral buzz, the Official Red-Carpet Host tag and now a major industry award, Harshit Dhingaun is clearly stepping into the spotlight.

From celebrity interviews to major award nights, his mix of glam, spontaneity and quick celebrity banter is helping him carve out a distinct space in Bollywood entertainment.

After his viral moment and latest win, the buzz around Harshit is only getting louder — and he could well be one of the new faces to watch on Bollywood’s red-carpet circuit in India and abroad.

For bookings: https://www.instagram.com/harshitdhingaun 
Instagram handle : @harshitdhingaun or email : Thevoynet@gmail.com 

With experience working across multiple business categories, Ankit understands that every industry requires a different digital marketing approach. From generating leads for education businesses to building customer acquisition systems for e-commerce brands, his work focuses on creating campaigns that combine strategy, creativity, targeting and measurable performance.

His experience spans a wide range of sectors, including:

- Astrology & Numerology

- Education & Preschool Businesses

- Schools, Institutes & Training Programs

- Real Estate & Property

- E-commerce & D2C Brands

- Manufacturing & Factories

- Production & Industrial Businesses

- Healthcare & Wellness

- Travel & Hospitality

- Franchise Businesses

- Professional Services

- Events & Entertainment

- Personal Brands & Influencers

- Local Businesses

- B2B Businesses

- Startups & Emerging Brands

From Campaigns to Business Growth

Ankit's approach goes beyond simply running advertisements. He works on the complete digital marketing ecosystem—campaign strategy, audience targeting, creative direction, paid advertising, lead generation, social media, content strategy, conversion optimisation and performance analysis.

His focus is on answering one important question:

“How can digital marketing generate measurable business growth?”

Across selected campaigns, his strategies have delivered returns of up to 23–25× on advertising investment, demonstrating the potential of combining precise targeting, strong creative communication and performance optimisation.

He has also worked on scaling campaigns from initial testing stages to larger advertising budgets, identifying winning audiences and creatives and reallocating budgets toward campaigns with stronger performance.

A Multi-Industry Digital Marketing Perspective

One of Ankit's strengths is his exposure to businesses with completely different customer journeys.

For an astrologer or numerologist, the objective may be generating high-intent consultation leads.

For an education business, it may be generating admissions or franchise enquiries.

For an e-commerce company, the focus can shift toward customer acquisition, ROAS and repeat purchases.

For a factory or manufacturing company, the objective may be B2B lead generation and connecting with decision-makers.

For a franchise business, the campaign may focus on identifying financially qualified prospects rather than simply generating large volumes of leads.

This cross-industry experience allows Ankit to approach digital marketing from a business perspective rather than a one-size-fits-all advertising approach.

Building a Strong Digital Presence

Alongside performance marketing, Ankit works on strengthening the overall digital presence of businesses and professionals through social media strategy, branding, content and personal positioning.

His philosophy is straightforward:

Visibility creates attention. Strategy creates opportunities. Performance marketing turns opportunities into measurable growth.

For entrepreneurs, companies and professionals looking for a digital marketing partner to build campaigns, generate leads and scale online, Ankit Sharma brings hands-on campaign experience with a strong focus on measurable outcomes.

Connect With Ankit

Instagram: @ankitbhrigu1991

For digital marketing, performance marketing, lead generation, social media growth, advertising campaigns and business scaling, connect with Ankit Sharma.

Aura Vantaje is redefining commercial investment potential on Sohna Road

Located in Sector 48, Aura Vantaje is a two-acre luxury commercial development that combines organised retail and office spaces within a single address. Planned with retail across the ground floor to the fourth floor and office spaces from the fifth to the eleventh floor, the project has been designed around the way commercial developments are increasingly expected to function. The investment in the project's construction stands at around Rs. 125 crores, while the estimated topline is pegged at Rs. 527 crores. Commercial units are priced from Rs. 50,00,000 onwards.

The timing is difficult to ignore. Commercial real estate in Gurugram has continued to remain resilient, supported by sustained office leasing, a growing presence of Global Capability Centres and a mature residential base that drives demand for organised retail. According to Colliers, India's Grade A office leasing reached a record 71.5 million sq. ft. in 2025, with Delhi NCR remaining one of the country's most active office markets. That demand has also changed the way commercial projects are planned. Location still matters, but it is no longer the only consideration.

Retailers today look beyond visibility alone. They evaluate the strength of the surrounding catchment, customer demographics and the ability of a project to sustain footfall throughout the day. They want to know what the surrounding catchment looks like, how people move through the building, whether offices are part of the development and if the project can remain active beyond shopping hours. Office occupiers ask similar questions. They look for workplaces that offer cafes, convenience retail, banking facilities and everyday services without employees having to step out every time they need something. Those conversations have become increasingly common over the past few years.

Aura Vantaje appears to respond to those expectations through its planning. Rather than treating retail and offices as two independent products, the project attempts to let one support the other. Retail occupies the lower floors where visibility and customer movement matter the most. The office component rises above, creating a steady weekday population that can support businesses operating within the development. It is a straightforward planning approach, but one that helps create a more balanced commercial environment by bringing together steady office demand and organised retail.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder & Managing Director, Aura World, said, “Sohna Road has evolved into one of Gurugram’s most established commercial corridors, and the availability of sizeable land parcels for organised developments is now extremely limited. With Aura Vantaje, our focus is on creating a future-ready commercial address that integrates retail and office spaces within a strong residential and corporate catchment. We believe projects in mature, supply-constrained micro-markets are increasingly being evaluated for their long-term relevance, occupier demand and ability to remain active throughout the day, and Aura Vantaje has been planned with exactly those priorities in mind.”

Its location strengthens that proposition further. Sector 48 enjoys seamless connectivity to Golf Course Extension Road, Southern Peripheral Road and NH-48, allowing businesses to draw customers, employees and visitors from multiple parts of Gurugram. As commercial activity continues to spread across the city, this accessibility has become an increasingly important competitive advantaje.

Scarcity is now becoming part of the Sohna Road story as well. Unlike a decade ago, when new commercial projects were announced with regularity, opportunities to launch developments of meaningful scale have become increasingly limited because much of the corridor has already been developed. That changes the conversation for both occupiers and investors. The emphasis gradually shifts from simply acquiring commercial space to choosing locations that are likely to remain relevant over the long term. The existing retail developments along Sohna Road are relatively older and no longer fully align with the evolving expectations of today's consumers. While the corridor continues to attract strong footfall, Aura Vantaje introduces a contemporary retail destination that reflects changing consumer preferences and retail formats.

Sohna Road is no longer defining itself through new infrastructure or fresh land releases. It is beginning to be defined by the quality of developments that still find a place here. Aura Vantaje enters the market at a point when that distinction is becoming increasingly important.

The shift is not being driven by planned mergers or acquisitions. It is being driven by a change in how students evaluate training institutes, how employers assess candidates and how much scrutiny training providers face over their actual outcomes.

Between 2019 and 2023, India’s IT training market became increasingly fragmented. Institutes across the country offered similar programmes in areas such as CCNA, Python, data science and other technology skills. Pricing became increasingly competitive, while marketing expenditure grew significantly.

For prospective students, the difference between a credible training institution and a well-designed landing page became difficult to identify without actually enrolling.

That fragmentation came at a cost.

Students often made expensive programme decisions based on advertising rather than demonstrated outcomes. Corporate L&D teams engaged training providers without access to independently verifiable placement records. Over time, this also affected the broader credibility of IT certification training as a genuine pathway to career advancement.

That dynamic is now beginning to change.

Baiju Gopalan, Managing Director of Sree Gokulam Group of Companies, was honoured with the 22nd edition of the Manappuram Unique Times Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award for his significant contributions to the business sector. Under his leadership, Sree Gokulam Group has strengthened its presence across finance, automobiles, hospitality, healthcare, education, real estate, media, and entertainment. His focus on innovation and expansion has contributed to the group’s growth and reputation as one of India’s prominent business conglomerates.

RJ Neena (left), Sujaya Parvathy (centre), and Arya P. Nair (right) receive the award from V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director, Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman, Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.

Beyond business, Baiju Gopalan has also been actively involved in initiatives focused on education, healthcare, women empowerment, environmental sustainability, disaster relief, and community development. With the MBA honour, he joins the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), an exclusive global forum of accomplished business leaders with assets exceeding ₹1,000 crore and a strong commitment to social responsibility. The forum is also distinguished for not charging any membership fee.

The ceremony also highlighted the achievements of women who have made notable contributions to the media industry through the Manappuram Unique Times Women Excellence Award. RJ Neena, RJ at Radio Mango 91.9, received the Excellence in Radio Broadcasting Award for her contribution to radio and her enduring connection with listeners. Sujaya Parvathy, Chief Editor of Big TV Malayalam, was honoured with the Excellence in Editorial Leadership Award for her achievements and leadership in journalism. Arya P. Nair, Senior Sub-Editor and News Anchor at Mathrubhumi News, received the Outstanding News Anchor Award for her excellence in news presentation and commitment to responsible journalism.

The recognition reflected the diverse spirit of the awards, celebrating excellence across business and media. The awards once again provided a platform to honour individuals whose dedication, perseverance, leadership, and professional achievements continue to create a positive impact on society.

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Aura Vantage is redefining commercial investment potential on Sohna Road

Located in Sector 48, Aura Vantage is a two-acre luxury commercial development that combines organised retail and office spaces within a single address. Planned with retail across the ground floor to the fourth floor and office spaces from the fifth to the eleventh floor, the project has been designed around the way commercial developments are increasingly expected to function. The investment in the project's construction stands at around Rs. 125 crores, while the estimated topline is pegged at Rs. 527 crores. Commercial units are priced from Rs. 50,00,000 onwards.

The timing is difficult to ignore. Commercial real estate in Gurugram has continued to remain resilient, supported by sustained office leasing, a growing presence of Global Capability Centres and a mature residential base that drives demand for organised retail. According to Colliers, India's Grade A office leasing reached a record 71.5 million sq. ft. in 2025, with Delhi NCR remaining one of the country's most active office markets. That demand has also changed the way commercial projects are planned. Location still matters, but it is no longer the only consideration.

Retailers today look beyond visibility alone. They evaluate the strength of the surrounding catchment, customer demographics and the ability of a project to sustain footfall throughout the day. They want to know what the surrounding catchment looks like, how people move through the building, whether offices are part of the development and if the project can remain active beyond shopping hours. Office occupiers ask similar questions. They look for workplaces that offer cafes, convenience retail, banking facilities and everyday services without employees having to step out every time they need something. Those conversations have become increasingly common over the past few years.

Aura Vantage appears to respond to those expectations through its planning. Rather than treating retail and offices as two independent products, the project attempts to let one support the other. Retail occupies the lower floors where visibility and customer movement matter the most. The office component rises above, creating a steady weekday population that can support businesses operating within the development. It is a straightforward planning approach, but one that helps create a more balanced commercial environment by bringing together steady office demand and organised retail.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder & Managing Director, Aura World, said, “Sohna Road has evolved into one of Gurugram’s most established commercial corridors, and the availability of sizeable land parcels for organised developments is now extremely limited. With Aura Vantage, our focus is on creating a future-ready commercial address that integrates retail and office spaces within a strong residential and corporate catchment. We believe projects in mature, supply-constrained micro-markets are increasingly being evaluated for their long-term relevance, occupier demand and ability to remain active throughout the day, and Aura Vantage has been planned with exactly those priorities in mind.”

Its location strengthens that proposition further. Sector 48 enjoys seamless connectivity to Golf Course Extension Road, Southern Peripheral Road and NH-48, allowing businesses to draw customers, employees and visitors from multiple parts of Gurugram. As commercial activity continues to spread across the city, this accessibility has become an increasingly important competitive advantage.

Scarcity is now becoming part of the Sohna Road story as well. Unlike a decade ago, when new commercial projects were announced with regularity, opportunities to launch developments of meaningful scale have become increasingly limited because much of the corridor has already been developed. That changes the conversation for both occupiers and investors. The emphasis gradually shifts from simply acquiring commercial space to choosing locations that are likely to remain relevant over the long term. The existing retail developments along Sohna Road are relatively older and no longer fully align with the evolving expectations of today's consumers. While the corridor continues to attract strong footfall, Aura Vantage introduces a contemporary retail destination that reflects changing consumer preferences and retail formats.

Sohna Road is no longer defining itself through new infrastructure or fresh land releases. It is beginning to be defined by the quality of developments that still find a place here. Aura Vantage enters the market at a point when that distinction is becoming increasingly important.

Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life

For further support, claimants can connect with HDFC Life via the below touch points:
 

Dedicated claim helpline: 022-68446529
Call Centre Number: 022-68446530
WhatsApp: +91 8291890569
Email:service@hdfclife.com
Nodal Officer: Ruma Konwar | 8876517557
 

Claimants may also choose to visit any of HDFC Life’s branch offices. The branch addresses for affected areas are given below:
 

Jorhat: 2nd Floor, Sneha Heights, New Balibat, Jorhat, Assam 
Sivasagar: 2nd Floor, Jagannath Plaza, Transport Tiniali Sivasagar, Assam 
Golaghat: Ground Floor, Om Arav Building, Thana Road, Golaghat, Assam
 

Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life said, “We at HDFC Life are committed to stand by our policyholders’ families who are impacted by this calamity. We will ensure that each claim request, received from anyone impacted by the floods in Assam, is treated as priority to ensure a smooth and hassle-free payout.”

For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn

The film has now reached viewers in more than 120 countries worldwide, marking a significant milestone for a regional-language film. Adding to its growing recognition, ‘Omlo’ has also earned an impressive IMDb rating of 8.2, reflecting the strong appreciation it has received from audiences.

Directed by Sonu Randeep Choudhury, ‘Omlo’ had its grand world premiere at the Cannes Film Market last year, where it received appreciation from international trade representatives, cinema enthusiasts and members of the film fraternity. The film has since continued its successful journey across various platforms and film circuits.

‘Omlo’ has also established an impressive record on the awards circuit, winning 24 awards across various categories at national and international platforms. The recognition further underlines the film’s artistic vision, storytelling and technical excellence.

Set against the cultural and social backdrop of Rajasthan, ‘Omlo’ is an emotionally driven story that explores human relationships, aspirations, struggles and the complexities of life. The film combines the rich cultural texture of Rajasthan with a deeply human narrative, bringing together emotion, drama and social realities.

With its rooted storytelling and authentic portrayal of characters, ‘Omlo’ goes beyond being a regional film and connects with audiences through universal emotions. The film’s journey from the Cannes Film Market to its successful digital run on Waves OTT reflects the growing reach and acceptance of Indian regional cinema among global audiences.

The film stars Shambho Mahajan, Sonu Randeep Choudhury and Sonali Sharmistha in pivotal roles.

‘Omlo’ is produced by Rohit Makhija, Manish Goplani, Neha Pandey and Sonu Randeep Choudhury.

The film features cinematography by Wilson Rabinse, while Navneet Kumar Sinha has handled the editing. The haunting background score has been composed by Devendra Bhome. The music is composed by Gazi Khan Barna and Bhuvan Ahuja, with lyrics penned by director Sonu Randeep Choudhury.

With its continued No. 1 trending position on Waves OTT, availability across more than 120 countries, an IMDb rating of 8.2 and 24 awards to its credit, ‘Omlo’ is emerging as a notable success story for Rajasthani cinema and demonstrating the growing global appetite for regional Indian storytelling.

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Core Team at the launch of the Quadcentrix Office

The rebranding comes as India's enterprise technology landscape undergoes a drastic transformation. The country's enterprise AI market is projected to grow from approximately USD 13 billion in 2025 to more than USD 130 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights, while IBM's Global AI Adoption Index found that 59% of large Indian enterprises already have AI actively in use, the highest share among the countries surveyed. As that shift accelerates, enterprises are increasingly looking for a single technology partner that can move fluidly across AI, blockchain and data, rather than stitching together point solutions from different vendors.

Shahzad Fatmi CEO Quadcentrix

Quadcentrix, formerly SettleMint India, has emerged to meet this demand. The rebranding signifies the company's evolution from a blockchain specialist into a full spectrum technology partner, spanning enterprise AI orchestration, blockchain trust, and data transformation.

Founded in 2019, the company has spent over six years delivering enterprise technology infrastructure, building a track record that today includes 20+ enterprise clients globally, with services and solutions delivered across 5 countries. Its work covers diverse sectors including Banking and Financial Services (BFSI), Government and Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Having established itself in India in the last few years, the company plans to leverage its strong foothold and target a double-digit growth in the first year of the rebranded entity. 

“The market has moved faster than the vendor categories built to serve it,” said Shahzad Fatmi, CEO of Quadcentrix. “Our clients no longer come to us with a single blockchain problem to solve. They come with a business challenge that spans data, AI and trust, often all at once. Over six years, we built the team and the track record to meet them there, and Quadcentrix is the name that finally reflects that breadth.”

The name ‘Quadcentrix’ is built around two key ideas: “Quad,” representing the four pillars that power its delivery model (collaborative excellence, trusted expertise, agile delivery, and independent flexibility), and “Centrix,” reflecting a client centred approach to every engagement.

The company has confirmed that the rebranding will not impact existing client contracts, ownership structures, or the teams supporting current engagements.

Quadcentrix will begin rolling out its new brand identity across its digital presence, client communications and business materials, in the coming weeks. 

More information about the company's services, solutions and industry work is available at www.quadcentrix.com.

About Quadcentrix
Quadcentrix (formerly SettleMint India) is a technology company that helps enterprises modernise their data foundations, apply enterprise AI, and build trusted blockchain solutions. Founded in 2019, the company has delivered 6+ years of enterprise technology work for 20+ clients across 5 countries, serving sectors including Banking & Financial Services, Government & Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech, and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Quadcentrix is headquartered in India with a team spanning architecture, AI, engineering and delivery.

Fortis Escorts Faridabad Launches Faridabad’s First Comprehensive Lung Failure Clinic

The clinic will offer end-to-end management for patients with advanced lung failure, including comprehensive disease evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, and assessment of eligibility for lung transplantation. Eligible patients will receive structured pre-transplant counselling, detailed clinical work-up, and seamless post-transplant follow-up in collaboration with the transplant specialists. In addition, patients will have access to advanced pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy and interventional pulmonology procedures, pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, nutritional counselling, sleep evaluation, non-invasive ventilation support, and personalised patient education. By bringing together respiratory physicians, transplant specialists, rehabilitation experts, and allied healthcare professionals, the clinic aims to improve clinical outcomes, enhance quality of life, and provide continuity of care for patients living with advanced respiratory diseases.

Dr Govini Balasubramani, Director, Lung Transplant & Advanced Lung Failure, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai (a Fortis Network Hospital) added, “We are witnessing a steady rise in patients with advanced lung diseases, driven by multiple factors including air pollution, tobacco exposure, occupational hazards, infections and an ageing population. Unfortunately, many patients reach us only when their lung function has deteriorated significantly. The Lung Failure Clinic has been established to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and, where appropriate, timely assessment for lung transplantation.”

Speaking on the launch, Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director, Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad said, “As pulmonologists, we are seeing more patients presenting with severe respiratory impairment, often at a stage when treatment options become limited. Through the Lung Failure Clinic, we aim to provide timely access to multidisciplinary expertise, personalised treatment plans and advanced therapies, while identifying patients who may benefit from lung transplantation before they become too sick or develop contraindications for transplant.”

Navina Jafa, expert in heritage tourism and Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India

Through The India Culture Travel Index, Skyscanner analysed the evolving behaviours driving culture-led travel in India. The findings uncover five defining trends that together form the R.O.O.T.S. of India's growing culture-led travel movement:

R - Rediscovering heritage

Heritage continues to be the strongest driver of culture-led travel. It is the top motivator for Indian travellers, with 47% saying they would plan a trip around heritage and historical sites. Kerala, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand rank among the country's leading cultural destinations, reflecting travellers' growing interest in exploring India's architectural landmarks, historic communities and living traditions.

O - Open discovery

As Indian travellers become more open to discovering destinations through culture, they are embracing more immersive experiences beyond traditional sightseeing. Social media and YouTube (42%), along with the growing popularity of food, craft and heritage trails (41%), are the biggest drivers behind growing interest in culture-led travel.

Beyond domestic travel, 46% of Indian travellers have already travelled internationally for a cultural event, festival or heritage trail, while a further 43% aspire to do so, highlighting a growing curiosity to explore culture both within India and around the world. This openness extends closer to home too, with one in four Indian travellers (25%) heading to Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns for cultural experiences, beyond the usual metro circuit.

O - Once-in-a-year experiences

Festival tourism is emerging as a powerful travel driver, with 72% of Indian travellers saying they would consider planning a trip specifically to attend a major cultural or religious festival. India's iconic festivals are powerful travel motivators, with Durga Puja (58%) emerging as the top festival travellers would consider travelling to attend, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi (52%) and Navratri Garba (47%).

The findings suggest that travellers are increasingly treating major festivals as limited-time experiences worth planning an entire holiday around, rather than simply activities to enjoy after arriving at a destination.

T - Traditions & Taste

Food, crafts, and local traditions continue to play an increasingly important role in shaping culture-led travel. Regional food experiences rank among the top reasons for travel, with 43% of Indian travellers saying they would plan a trip around them. The growing popularity highlights an appetite for experiences that connect travellers with a destination's local traditions, flavours and way of life.

S - Smarter planning

As cultural experiences become a bigger travel priority, travellers are becoming more intentional in how they plan their journeys. Most Indian travellers begin planning their culture-led trips well in advance, with 40% starting three to six months ahead and 36% beginning one to three months before departure.

Festival timing has become the biggest booking consideration, with 36% of travellers saying availability during key festival or event dates matters most, followed by affordable prices for transport and accommodation (32%).

With many cultural experiences taking place at specific times of the year, Skyscanner's Price Alerts allow travellers to monitor fare changes without having to repeatedly search, while Whole Month search lets them compare prices across different travel dates to identify the best value around festivals, heritage trails and other cultural experiences.

Looking ahead, India's appetite for culture-led travel shows no signs of slowing. With 41% Indian travellers planning to take two culture-focused trips within India over the next year, 32% expect to take three to four. While enthusiasm remains high, safety concerns (49%) and high travel costs (37%) continue to be the biggest barriers to taking more culture-led journeys.

Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, "For a long time, people chose a destination first and discovered its culture once they arrived. We're increasingly seeing that journey now happens in reverse. Travellers are starting with the experience they want, whether that's witnessing Durga Puja, exploring a heritage trail or discovering a region through its food, and then building the trip around it. That shift is changing not just where people travel, but how they plan.

When festival dates are fixed and demand is high, comparing different travel dates, airlines, airports and routes can help travellers find better value. For instance, try mixing and matching airlines or airports when you are searching for flights, and use helpful tools like Skyscanner's Price Alerts, to find better value when planning travel. "

Dr Navina Jafa, an expert in heritage tourism, sustainability, cultural strategy, and Kathak dance, said, "India's cultural heritage is not only about monuments, but also the ecosystems around heritage landscapes: creative skilled communities, cultural traditions, and living practices. Studies show a growing number of travellers seeking immersive heritage experiences, underlining India’s need to invest in its vast geographical diversity and multilayered cultural legacy. This fast-growing sector offers major opportunities for conservation, economic growth, and for strengthening heritage tourism nationally and globally."

As India's appetite for culture-led travel continues to grow, Skyscanner continues to help travellers uncover the R.O.O.T.S. of every journey, from rediscovering heritage and open discovery to once-in-a-year experiences, traditions, and taste, and smarter planning.

Top destinations to connect with your ROOTS**

Skyscanner has also curated a selection of cultural destinations across India, helping travellers turn inspiration into their next journey. Explore the guide here.

About Skyscanner 

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trips with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options. Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America, where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they've seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Note to Editors

*Skyscanner research conducted with OnePoll in July 2026 with 2,000 respondents in India.

**Live prices dated 27th July 2026, one-way trip from Delhi to destinations. Subject to change

(1) Almora does not have an airport - prices are for Dehradun (354 kms)

(2) Puri does not have an airport - prices are for Bhubaneswar (65 kms)

(3) Kohima does not have an airport - prices are for Imphal (120 kms)

Nayan Verma does not look like someone who has spent five years building one of India's fastest-growing IT training institutions. He looks like someone who has spent five years in a classroom which, in the most meaningful sense, is exactly what he has done.

The CEO and Founder of Training Basket, the Noida-based hybrid IT training institution that has trained over 2 lakh students and alumni without a single rupee of external capital, speaks about curriculum architecture the way an engineer speaks about load-bearing structures. Precisely. With attention to what fails first under pressure.

We meet at Training Basket's Noida office, where a new batch of Data Science students is midway through a project submission review. Verma glances toward the session briefly before turning back. The distraction lasts approximately two seconds.

You have built a 2-lakh-student institution without raising external capital. At what point did you decide that was the model?

"It was never really a decision. We did not sit down in year one and say we would never raise funding. We sat down and said we would not raise funding until we needed it and we kept finding that we did not need it.

When your revenue comes from placement outcomes, and your placements come from curriculum quality, and your curriculum quality comes from instructor expertise, the entire model is self-funding. Each placed student generates referrals. Each referral generates a new enrollment. Each enrollment funds the next batch. There is no gap in that cycle that requires external capital to bridge as long as you do not try to grow faster than your outcomes can support."

Most EdTech founders describe investor pressure as unavoidable at scale. You avoided it entirely. What did that actually protect?

"It protected the curriculum. That is the honest answer.

When you have an investor board, you have a set of stakeholders whose primary interest is in the metrics that support the next funding round: monthly active users, course catalogue breadth, revenue growth rate. These are not bad metrics. But they are not education metrics.

Education metrics are completion rates, placement percentages, post-training salary increments, and employer satisfaction with the graduates you produce. These metrics move slowly. They require patience. They cannot be engineered by a product team on a quarterly timeline.

We never had anyone in the room telling us to add forty new courses to expand our TAM, or to reduce instructor contact hours to improve unit economics. Every curriculum decision we made was made by people whose only accountability was to the student sitting in the next batch. That clarity is worth more than any Series A."

The EdTech sector collapsed spectacularly between 2022 and 2024. How close did Training Basket come to being affected?

"We were not affected in the way the funded platforms were affected because we did not have the structural vulnerabilitiethey had. No burn rate to manage. No investor expectations to reset. No marketing spend to cut. No batch of students who had paid for a programme that we could no longer afford to deliver.

What we did feel was a reputational drag. When BYJU's became a front-page story for the wrong reasons, every EdTech brand in India absorbed some of that scepticism. Parents who were considering training programmes for their children started asking harder questions. Corporate L&D teams started demanding outcome verification before signing contracts.

For us, that shift was not a threat. It was an advantage. Because our outcomes were verifiable. Our alumni were named, employed, and accessible on LinkedIn. Our placement record was documented, not statistical. The harder the market demanded proof, the better our position became relative to competitors who had been selling certificates rather than careers."

Your curriculum now incorporates generative AI across multiple verticals. How do you decide when to update and when to wait?

"We listen to our placement cell. That is the honest answer.

Our placement cell sits in interview rooms, conducts mock technical rounds, and speaks to hiring managers at the companies where our graduates are being evaluated. When they start hearing the same new requirement appearing across three or four different employers a specific tool, a workflow pattern, an AI integration skill that is the signal.

We do not update the curriculum because a competitor launched a new course. We update it because the interview room changed. The market tells us what to teach. Our job is to listen faster than everyone else."

What does the next phase of Training Basket look like?

Verma leans forward slightly. This is the question he has clearly thought about most.

"Deeper. Not necessarily bigger. We are expanding into Tier-2 cities through our online infrastructure Jaipur, Lucknow, Indore, Coimbatore because that is where the placement gap is most acute and where institutional training quality is most inconsistent. We are scaling our corporate training vertical with enterprise clients across five locations. And we are embedding AI-integrated tooling into every vertical we operate in not as a marketing claim but as a curriculum reality.

But the standard does not change. Every city we enter, every corporate cohort we deploy, every new AI module we build gets measured against the same question we have asked since batch one: did the participant get a better job because of this programme?

Two lakh students later, that question is still the only one that matters."

Training Basket is a Noida-based hybrid IT training and certification institution with over 2 lakh students and alumni across India. Founded by Nayan Verma and Rishabh Raj, the institute delivers instructor-led programmes across Data Science, Cloud Computing, Networking, Cybersecurity, Web Development, and Digital Marketing with dedicated placement support. | trainingbasket.in

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

The exclusive hampers featured a thoughtfully selected range of Oshea Herbals’ skincare products, designed to support healthy, radiant and well-nourished skin. Through this association, the brand aims to encourage women to prioritise self-care while embracing their natural beauty with confidence.

Mrs. India 2026 brings together accomplished and inspiring women from diverse backgrounds, providing them with a platform to celebrate their aspirations, achievements and individuality. Oshea Herbals’ association with the platform reflects the brand’s commitment to empowering women and promoting beauty that is rooted in confidence, care and authenticity.

Commenting on the association, Mr Yash Kundlia, Co-Founder @ Oshea Herbals, said, “We are delighted to be associated with Mrs. India 2026 as the official skincare partner. The contestants represent confidence, strength, grace and individuality, values that strongly resonate with Oshea Herbals. Through our specially curated skincare hampers, we are proud to celebrate and support these inspiring women as they embark on this remarkable journey.”

The association further strengthens Oshea Herbals’ commitment to connecting with women through meaningful platforms that celebrate beauty beyond appearances. By supporting the contestants of Mrs. India 2026, the brand continues to promote the importance of self-care, confidence and embracing one’s unique beauty.

With this partnership, Oshea Herbals looks forward to being a part of the contestants’ memorable journey and celebrating the spirit of women who inspire through their confidence, passion and achievements.

About Oshea Herbals

Oshea Herbals, part of OJB Herbals Pvt. Ltd., was founded in 2009 with the vision of blending herbal wisdom and modern science to create safe, cruelty-free, and effective personal care solutions. Headquartered in Kolkata, with a growing presence across India, Oshea Herbals today offers an extensive portfolio of 450+ products in skincare, haircare, bath & body, and professional care. Each product is dermatologically tested, carefully crafted, and designed to bring consumers closer to nature.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

His statement, “I decide my own worth,” has particularly caught attention. The remark is being viewed as a reflection of his belief in self-respect, dignity and knowing one’s value.

Bigg Boss 20 Fee Buzz Adds to the Excitement

With Bigg Boss 20 generating considerable anticipation ahead of its premiere, speculation surrounding potential contestants and their participation fees has become a major talking point. Several names have been linked to the reality show, leaving fans eager to know which celebrities will ultimately enter the Bigg Boss house.
Aadeeanant’s reported stance on his fee has added another interesting angle to the ongoing discussions. While his name continues to generate buzz, his inclusion in the final contestant lineup remains a matter of anticipation.

 Greater Certainty Strengthens Real Estate’s Investment Outlook

For the housing market, the decision gives buyers more certainty while allowing developers to calibrate launches and execution schedules with demand. The impact is also expected to extend to commercial and mixed-use developments, where visibility into financing is an important factor in expansion plans, capital allocation and leasing activity.

Mrinal Mittal, Managing Director, Homeland Group, said, “The RBI’s decision is a welcome move as it provides policy stability and reinforces confidence across the real estate sector. A stable interest rate environment is crucial for homebuyers, as it preserves affordability and encourages long-term purchasing decisions. We are already witnessing strong end-user demand, particularly in Punjab and the Tricity region, where improved infrastructure, rising incomes and evolving lifestyle aspirations are driving the next phase of residential growth.”

This visibility assumes added importance in emerging residential markets, where end-user demand is closely linked to buyers' ability to plan their finances. A steady policy environment can also encourage developers to adopt a more calibrated approach to supply, ensuring that new projects are introduced in line with absorption levels and local economic opportunities.

Neeraj Gulati, Managing Director, Assotech, said, “Tier 2 markets, in particular, are likely to benefit from greater certainty around borrowing costs. Demand in such cities is end-user driven, and certainty around borrowing costs is an important factor in determining the long-term ownership decision. The current policy also allows developers to launch their projects in a more disciplined manner, keeping supply aligned with market needs.”

With financing conditions remaining steady, developers can plan project timelines with greater confidence, while investors and institutions gain improved visibility when assessing expansion plans. The neutral stance further supports a measured growth path as the sector responds to global uncertainties without losing sight of domestic demand.

Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments Ltd., said, “A stable interest rate environment enhances homebuyer confidence by ensuring that borrowing costs remain predictable while enabling developers to plan long-term investments with greater certainty. It also allows for long-term planning, enabling the sector to maintain a stable growth path in the context of global uncertainties.”

Karan Malik, Regional Director, Realistic Realtors, said, “Along with the upward revision in the GDP growth projection, the policy sends a reassuring signal for long-term investments across real estate. Stable borrowing conditions support homebuyers, while also providing businesses and institutional investors the confidence to pursue expansion plans across residential, commercial and mixed-use projects.”

The impact of the policy decision extends beyond the initial purchase decision. For developers, greater predictability in financing conditions can support the timely execution of ongoing projects and improve the planning of future launches.

Preksha Singh, CEO, Agrasheel Infra, said, “Housing purchases are long-term financial commitments, and consistency in borrowing costs helps buyers plan with greater confidence while allowing developers to move ahead with project execution and future launches. With the RBI expressing confidence in the economy, the residential market remains well placed to sustain its momentum.”

The rate decision has also been viewed in the context of inflation management and the need to protect domestic demand. With crude prices and other global factors remaining uncertain, a neutral policy stance gives the central bank room to monitor inflationary pressures. This balance is particularly relevant for real estate, where project execution, sales momentum and funding decisions are closely connected.

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, said, “In the current environment, where global crude prices remain volatile, a neutral stance allows policymakers to closely track inflation transmission without disrupting domestic demand cycles. Interest rate stability boosts homebuyers’ confidence and supports sales momentum while enabling developers to keep project execution timelines in sync with market conditions.”

The broader investment environment may also benefit from the greater predictability created by the RBI’s decision. A stable financing backdrop can encourage fresh investments, support enterprise expansion and strengthen capital allocation across growth-oriented sectors. This wider economic stability may reinforce business confidence and investment activity.

Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Biigtech, said, “A predictable financing environment encourages fresh investments, supports enterprise expansion and strengthens capital allocation across growth-oriented sectors. As technology continues to play a larger role in India’s economic transformation, such policy consistency will help sustain business momentum and investment activity.”

Commercial real estate is expected to remain another beneficiary, particularly as businesses evaluate expansion plans and investors assess office and retail assets through a long-term lens.

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “Greater clarity on borrowing costs allows developers to manage capital more efficiently, while businesses can move ahead with expansion plans more confidently. This policy direction is expected to support strong leasing activity across premium office and retail developments, strengthening institutional interest in India’s commercial property market.”

Taken together, the industry responses suggest that the RBI’s rate decision is supporting a more measured phase of real estate growth, marked by disciplined project launches, sustained end-user demand, stronger leasing prospects and greater confidence in long-term capital deployment.

HONOR Robot Phone brings an ambitious new concept to smartphones, combining innovative design, AI capabilities and advanced technology in one futuristic device

Specifications at a glance

The HONOR Robot phone is built around a motorised camera arm, a feature that no other mainstream phone currently offers. This alone makes it one of the more talked-about launches of the year, and here is what is expected on the specifications sheet.

• Display: 6.71-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1256x2808 resolution, protected by Giant Rhino Glass

• Chipset: flagship-grade octa-core Snapdragon platform

• RAM and storage: 12GB RAM with 512GB storage

• Rear camera: 200MP main sensor with a 50MP ultra-wide lens, mounted on a motorised gimbal

• Front camera: 50MP

• Battery: 7,000mAh with 120W fast charging and wireless charging support

• Build: IP68 rating for dust and water resistance

• Software: Android 16 with MagicOS

What makes it stand out

The headline feature is a mechanical gimbal with four degrees of motion, built around what HONOR describes as its smallest micro motor yet. This arm can track a subject automatically and hold steady through handheld video. It also rotates for creative angles using AI Spinshot, and it can tilt to keep every participant in frame during a video call. Rather charmingly, it even responds to music, moving in time with the beat.

Beyond the gimbal, the phone also leans on AI for everyday tasks. Object tracking helps with cleaner action shots, and wide-angle group photos no longer require anyone to shuffle into position. Paired with a 7,000mAh battery and 120W charging, the HONOR Robot phone suits people who create as much content as they consume. Those keen to browse HONOR's wider portfolio can also look at HONOR mobile phones for current models available today.

Pricing in India

Early estimates place the HONOR Robot phone in the higher flagship price band, reflecting its unusual hardware and camera system. Current reports suggest a starting price of around Rs. 99,990, though this figure remains unconfirmed until HONOR confirms Indian availability.

• HONOR Robot phone: expected from around Rs. 99,990

Disclaimer: Prices may change based on availability, offers, and location. Please check the latest price before buying.

Offers on HONOR phones

The HONOR Robot phone will soon reach Indian stores. Buyers looking to bring the phone home on Bajaj Finance Easy EMIs can look forward to these benefits:

• Zero down payment on select models

• Easy EMI Loan options starting from Rs. 830

• Flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months

• Up to 60% off the price of select phones

How to shop on Easy EMIs

The phone will soon launch in India and getting it through Easy EMIs should then be a straightforward process.

• Pick the HONOR Robot phone at a Bajaj Finance partner store

• Check Easy EMI Loan eligibility and choose a repayment tenure that suits, anywhere between 3 and 60 months

• Provide the required KYC details for verification

• Accept the loan offer amount and take the phone home the same day

The HONOR Robot phone marks a genuine departure from familiar smartphone design. Its camera moves, tracks, and reacts almost on its own. For buyers keen to be among the first to own one, an Easy EMI Loan from Bajaj Finance offers a practical way to manage the cost once Indian pricing and availability are confirmed.

India has emerged as one of the world's leading exporters of education, technology, and skilled talent. Building on this momentum, Edubex Learning, an Indian global edtech company headquartered in Kerala, is expanding access to internationally recognised education across Africa, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and other international markets through AI-enabled learning, globally accredited qualifications, and industry-focused career development.

Edubex’s India-based operations support its growing global education ecosystem, connecting learners with internationally recognised programmes and career-focused learning

Founded in 2020, Edubex has grown from a small educational initiative into one of the leading international education providers serving Africa, with more than 10,000 learners, 1,000+ graduates, and a comprehensive portfolio of over 200 programmes spanning undergraduate degrees, postgraduate qualifications, professional diplomas, executive education, workforce development, artificial intelligence, business management, healthcare, logistics, digital technologies, and industry-specific short courses.

At a time when employers increasingly value practical skills alongside academic qualifications, Edubex is helping bridge the gap between higher education and employability by combining internationally recognised curricula with personalised mentoring and technology-driven learning experiences.

Strengthening India's Global Education Presence

India has earned worldwide recognition as a hub for technology, innovation, and higher education. Edubex is extending this reputation by connecting learners in Africa and beyond with internationally recognised qualifications through strategic partnerships with globally respected universities and awarding organisations.

Its academic collaborations include UCAM (Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Spain), Chartered Management Institute (CMI), United Kingdom, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), together with other internationally recognised universities and academic institutions. These partnerships allow learners to earn globally respected qualifications while studying from their home countries, creating opportunities for career progression without geographical barriers.

By providing globally accredited education and practical workforce-focused programmes, the organisation aims to help professionals strengthen their careers while contributing to economic development and knowledge exchange across regions.

Looking Ahead

With digital learning becoming central to workforce transformation worldwide, Edubex continues to invest in academic innovation, AI-enabled education, strategic university collaborations, and globally relevant curricula.

The organisation also looks forward to engaging with universities, policymakers, employers, and international education leaders through global initiatives and industry forums, including the forthcoming Diaspora Economic Forum (DEF) 2026, where education, skills development, innovation, and cross-border collaboration are expected to remain central themes.

As India continues to strengthen its position as a global knowledge economy, Edubex remains committed to exporting educational excellence while empowering learners to build internationally competitive careers.

About Edubex Learning

Edubex Learning is an Indian global edtech company headquartered in Kerala, delivering internationally recognised higher education and professional learning opportunities to students across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and other global markets.

Established in 2020, Edubex has supported more than 10,000 learners through a portfolio of 200+ programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, professional diplomas, executive education, AI and digital technology programmes, workforce development, and industry certifications.

Through partnerships with globally respected institutions including UCAM (Spain), Chartered Management Institute (United Kingdom), Scottish Qualifications Authority (Scotland), and other international academic partners, Edubex continues to expand access to affordable, globally recognised education that prepares learners for success in an increasingly connected world.

Website: www.edubex.com.

Google Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL compared, highlighting their expected design, display, camera and performance differences ahead of the 2026 launch

Key specifications
Both phones are expected to run on the same Tensor G6 chipset, yet they diverge in screen size, battery capacity, and camera balance. Here is what current information points to for each model.

Google Pixel 11 Pro (expected specifications):

• Display: 6.31-inch OLED, 144Hz refresh rate, 1280x2856 resolution

• Chipset: Google Tensor G6

• RAM and storage: 16GB RAM with 512GB storage

• Rear camera: Triple 50MP setup

• Front camera: 42MP

• Battery: 5,000mAh with 45W fast charging and 25W wireless charging

•  

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL (expected specifications):

• Display: 7.02-inch LTPO AMOLED, 144Hz refresh rate, with HDR and Ultra HDR support

• Chipset: Google Tensor G6 built on a 2nm process

• RAM and storage: 12GB RAM with 512GB or 1TB storage

• Rear camera: 50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto

• Front camera: 20MP

• Battery: 6,200mAh with 90W fast charging

Which one suits different needs
The Pixel 11 Pro suits buyers who prefer a phone that sits comfortably in one hand, without sacrificing flagship features to get there. Its 42MP front camera and triple 50MP rear system point towards strong portraits and low-light detail. Meanwhile, 25W wireless charging adds a welcome dose of everyday convenience.

The Pixel 11 Pro XL, by contrast, is built for buyers who want the largest possible screen for streaming, gaming, and multitasking. Its 7.02-inch display, larger 6,200mAh battery, and rapid 90W charging point towards a phone designed for longer sessions away from a charger. Its telephoto lens also adds useful reach for distant subjects that the standard Pro may not capture quite as effectively.

Pricing in India
Current estimates place both phones in a similar price bracket, though the final figures will likely depend on the storage and colour options chosen at launch. Both the Pixel 11 Pro and the Pixel 11 Pro XL are expected to start from around Rs. 1,19,999.

• Google Pixel 11 Pro: expected from around Rs. 1,19,999

• Google Pixel 11 Pro XL: expected from around Rs. 1,19,999

Disclaimer: Prices may change based on availability, offers, and location. Please check the latest price before buying. 

Offers on Google phones
Both phones are expected to launch in India soon, with Bajaj Finance extending Easy EMI Loan benefits to eligible models, including:

• Zero down payment on select models

• Easy EMI Loan options starting from Rs. 830

• Flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months

• Up to 60% off the price of select phones

How to get a Pixel phone on Easy EMIs
Shoppers can plan their purchase in a few simple steps once either phone goes on sale in India.

• Choose the Google Pixel 11 Pro or the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL at a Bajaj Finance partner store or on the Bajaj Finserv website

• Check eligibility for the Easy EMI Loan and select a tenure that fits, from 3 up to 60 months

• Complete the KYC verification, either online or in-store, whichever is more convenient

• Review the loan offer amount and place the order once everything is confirmed

Both the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL are set to deliver Google's latest camera and AI capabilities. Their size and battery differences will likely steer buyers towards the one that fits their lifestyle. Once pricing is confirmed, an Easy EMI Loan from Bajaj Finance can help spread the cost across a tenure that fits comfortably into individual plans.

About Bajaj Finance Limited
Bajaj Finance Ltd. ('BFL', 'Bajaj Finance', or 'the Company'), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

L to R.:Mrs. Achla Chawla - Brand Manager, Longines India, Ms. Sara Ali Khan - Friend of Brand Longines India, A. Jaleel Nawaz - Director Zimson, A. Jameel Nawaz - Director Zimson

This season, Longines presents a curated selection of its latest successful releases. From the refined elegance of PrimaLuna to the versatility of Conquest, the seaside confidence of HydroConquest, and the exploratory spirit of the Longines Legend Diver, each timepiece is created to accompany you across bustling cities and calming beaches, in all its forms.

Speaking at the event Sara said, “Given the fact that this is Longines third store in Bengaluru speaks volumes about the loyalty of its customers in this city. I hope this success story is replicated everywhere in India.” She further added that “Longines quietly marks every moment with effortless joy and elegance – that’s what makes it unique.”

Mirroring the brand’s universe, the boutiques showcase the latest product range from the refined shapes of PrimaLuna and DolceVita, to the sporty new HydroConquest and the watchmaking tradition of the Longines Master Collection and heritage timepieces.

About Longines

Established in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, Longines’ expertise is steeped in tradition, elegance and performance. With its lengthy experience as an official timekeeper of world sports championships and partner of international sports federations, the Swiss watch brand has forged solid, enduring links with the world of sports over the years. Famous for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the world’s leading manufacturer of timepieces. The brand Longines, with its winged hourglass emblem, is represented in over 130 countries.

vivo S2 First Look: Explore its design, features, camera and performance, and see how the latest vivo S2 compares with vivo smartphones in 2026

vivo S2: The first look
The vivo S2 will launch in India on 6 August 2026, and early reports point to a phone built around a bold display and all-day battery life.

The standout here is the pairing of a large, curved screen with a 7,050 mAh battery, a combination that should suit anyone who streams, scrolls, or games through the day without reaching for a charger too often. The dual rear setup, backed by 4K video on both cameras, gives it a genuine edge for casual content creation, while wireless charging is a rare addition at this segment.

vivo V80 5G: The next V-series contender
The V-series has built its reputation on camera performance, and the upcoming vivo V80 5G looks set to continue that trend with a sharper display and a bigger battery than its predecessor.

Where the vivo S2 leans on screen size and battery capacity, the V80 5G looks to bring a faster refresh rate and a Zeiss-tuned triple camera into the conversation, making it a strong pick for buyers who prioritise photography alongside everyday performance.

vivo X300 FE: The compact flagship benchmark

For a sense of where vivo's flagship ambitions sit, the vivo X300 FE offers a useful reference point. Launched on 6th May 2026, it brings a 6.31-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and 12GB RAM for smooth gaming and multitasking.

The X300 FE proves that a compact body needn't mean compromise, packing flagship silicon and a versatile triple camera into a phone that's easier to handle one-handed. It sets a useful benchmark for what buyers can expect as they move up vivo's 2026 lineup.

Pricing at a glance
Early pricing indications place these three phones across a wide spread, giving buyers options at different budgets.

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Shopping made easier with Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance
Whichever vivo smartphone catches your eye, spreading the cost makes it easier to own. With an Easy EMI Loan offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 5 lakh, or an Insta EMI Card offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 3 lakh, both with tenures between 3 and 60 months, upgrading your phone need not mean paying the full price upfront.

Buying on Easy EMIs from a Bajaj Finance partner store is straightforward:

• Check your loan eligibility online in a few minutes

• Visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India

• Pick your preferred vivo smartphone and confirm the EMI plan that fits your budget

• Complete the paperwork in-store and walk out with your new phone

This wide network means a partner store is rarely far away, whether you are in a metro city or a smaller town. Buyers can also look forward to zero down payment on select models, Easy EMIs starting from Rs. 830, flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months, and up to 60% off the price of select phones, making a display and camera upgrade far more accessible.

With three distinct phones on offer, from the design-led vivo S2 to the camera-focused V80 5G and the compact X300 FE, there is a vivo smartphone to suit most needs and budgets, all of them within easier reach thanks to Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance.

Ai+ Smartphone Partners with Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18

For over two decades, KBC and its legendary host Amitabh Bachchan have stood for credibility, knowledge and aspiration, earning the trust of generations of Indian audiences. For Ai+ Smartphone, the association reflects a shared belief that trust is not claimed, it is earned over time.

As a young Indian technology brand, Ai+ Smartphone is building its journey around transparency, privacy and consumer-first technology. Its association with KBC gives the brand an opportunity to take this vision to millions of households across India.

Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth, Ai+ Smartphone and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “KBC is more than a television show; it is a part of India’s cultural fabric. Over the years, KBC and Mr. Bachchan have built an extraordinary legacy of credibility and trust. As a young Indian brand, that resonates deeply with us. We are building Ai+ with the belief that trust has to be earned every day through our products, our actions and our transparency. This partnership brings together an established legacy of trust with a new Indian technology brand aspiring to earn the same confidence from consumers.”

The association marks another step in Ai+ Smartphone’s journey towards building an Indian technology brand rooted in trust, privacy and transparency.

About Ai+ Smartphone

Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company's Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India's first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

MAHE-IBM inaugurated the AI Lab in Bengaluru

The Lab was inaugurated by Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru & Nisha Gopinath, Vice President, Human Resources, IBM India and South Asia, in the presence of Shipra Sharma, CSR Leader, IBM India and South Asia, Dr. E. V. Ramana Reddy, IAS, Chairman, KSDA, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru and Dr. Dayanand, Dean, School of Computing & Engineering, along with senior leaders from IBM, faculty members, researchers, students, and industry representatives.

Powered by advanced GPU-enabled computing infrastructure, AI Lab will support cutting-edge research in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, intelligent systems and data analytics. The facility can simultaneously support 30 high-performance computing workloads. It will provide faculty members, researchers, innovators and students with world-class computational resources to develop next-generation AI solutions.

Beyond enabling advanced research, AI Lab has been envisioned as a collaborative platform/hub that bridges academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programmes, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation and collaborative technology development. Together, these initiatives will create an ecosystem where ideas can rapidly evolve into impactful solutions.

A defining feature of the initiative is its commitment to inclusive AI education. Through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM’s free technology education program, MIT BLRU will establish an AI Learning Initiative. The programme will offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IBM SkillsBuild digital credentials, mentorship from MIT BLRU faculty and student volunteers, and access to advanced computing infrastructure. By reaching students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and equip learners with industry-relevant skills for the AI-driven economy.

"I commend MIT, BLRU and IBM on launching the IBM-MIT, AI Lab and their shared commitment to advancing AI education and nurturing future-ready talent. This collaboration highlights the power of academia-industry partnerships in strengthening Karnataka's AI ecosystem. By providing access to advanced AI infrastructure, hands-on learning, and resources, the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth," said Priyank Kharge, Cabinet Minister for Home, IT & BT, e-Governance, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, said, "Artificial Intelligence must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future. Our collaboration with IBM is a significant step towards building an inclusive and globally competitive AI ecosystem."

Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia said, "India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation. Realising this potential requires stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry. Our collaboration with MIT BLRU reflects IBM's commitment to democratizing access to emerging technologies, enterprise-grade computing, and digital skills, empowering students and researchers to advance AI innovation. Together, we are strengthening India's AI research ecosystem and driving innovations that create meaningful impact for India and the world,"

Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, said the Centre would significantly strengthen the University's AI research ecosystem. "MIG provides our students and researchers with the computing power needed to solve complex challenges and accelerate AI innovation. By integrating advanced infrastructure with industry collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem that nurtures research excellence, hands-on learning and industry-ready talent."

MIG marks a significant milestone in Karnataka's higher education and innovation ecosystem. By combining advanced High-Performance Computing infrastructure with large-scale AI skilling, industry collaboration and community outreach, the Centre is expected to catalyse transformative research, innovation, entrepreneurship and talent development. As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape industries and societies, MIG positions MIT Bengaluru as a leading hub for AI research, talent development and responsible innovation. 

About MAHE
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM's breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM's long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Speaking on the evolving dynamics of the industry, the Founder of Opulence Abodez Realty India said that today's homebuyers and investors are looking beyond attractive brochures and premium amenities. They seek credible guidance, comprehensive market insights, and an advisory partner who understands both their financial objectives and lifestyle aspirations.

"The luxury real estate market has matured significantly over the past few years. Buyers today are highly informed and conduct extensive research before making a decision. They are not simply purchasing a home they are investing in a lifestyle, a legacy, and a long-term asset. In such an environment, trust becomes the most valuable offering any real estate advisory can provide," said the Founder.

Delhi NCR continues to establish itself as one of India's most dynamic luxury housing markets, supported by world-class infrastructure, expanding business districts, improved connectivity, and rising demand from entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, professionals, and non-resident Indians. This transformation has encouraged leading developers to introduce landmark residential communities that combine exceptional design with premium lifestyle experiences.

Developers such as Godrej Properties, Max Estates, DLF, Elan Group, Experion, County Group, Gulshan, Sobha, Emaar India, M3M India, Prestige Group, Birla Estates, L&T Realty, and Central Park are contributing to the region's evolving luxury landscape through thoughtfully planned developments that cater to discerning homebuyers.

Among the projects attracting significant interest are M3M The Cullinan, Max Estates 105, M3M (Jacob & Co), Trump Tower, County 107, Experion Elements, ACE Parkway, along with several premium communities across Noida, Greater Noida, Gurugram, and Delhi. These developments reflect the increasing preference for spacious residences, wellness-focused amenities, concierge services, smart-home technologies, and integrated lifestyle ecosystems.

According to the Founder, while the market continues to evolve, the role of a real estate advisor must evolve as well.

"Our responsibility extends far beyond introducing properties. Every recommendation should be backed by thorough research, developer credibility, legal due diligence, market performance, and a clear understanding of the client's goals. We believe that honest advice creates long-term relationships, and those relationships ultimately define the reputation of a real estate advisor," Mr. Vivek Gupta (Founder, Opulence Abodez Realty India)

Opulence Abodez Realty India follows a consultative approach that emphasizes personalized advisory over transactional selling. By understanding each client's investment objectives, preferred locations, lifestyle expectations, and long-term financial plans, the company aims to provide carefully curated property solutions across Delhi NCR's premium residential market.

Looking ahead, the company intends to strengthen its presence in the luxury housing segment while continuing to enhance its advisory capabilities through market intelligence, digital innovation, and customer-centric services. The focus remains on helping clients make informed real estate decisions with confidence and clarity.

"Luxury is no longer defined solely by architecture or amenities. It is defined by confidence in the investment, the credibility of the developer, and the quality of guidance received throughout the buying journey. At Opulence Abodez Realty India, we aspire to redefine trust by delivering expertise, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to our clients' success," Ms. Tushita Jain (Co-Founder, Opulence Abodez Realty India)

As Delhi NCR continues to emerge as a preferred destination for luxury living and high-value real estate investment, Opulence Abodez Realty India remains committed to building enduring relationships and setting new benchmarks in professional real estate advisory through integrity, expertise, and client-first service.

Ai+ Smartphones Independence Day Sale is now LIVE on Flipkart

Here’s a curated pick of Ai+ Smartphones worth adding to your cart this Flipkart Freedom Day Sale:

Nova 2 Neo 5G: The Perfect First 5G Phone
For anyone stepping into the 5G world for the first time, the Nova 2 Neo 5G is the ideal welcome gift. It's powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset and features a 6.745-inch HD+ 120Hz display, a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI camera, and an 8MP front camera for everyday selfies. A 6000mAh battery which supports up to 18W charging keeping it running through long days, while up to 2TB of expandable storage, dual-SIM 5G, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65 dust and water resistance, and a slim 8.5mm profile round out a genuinely practical package. It runs on Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and AI Key support. Starting at INR 12,999*

Nova 2 Pro 5G - Performance on a Budget
Built for consumers who want performance first without breaking the bank, the Nova 2 Pro 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset and a 6.9-inch FHD+ 144Hz punch-hole display with up to 800 nits HBM brightness, backed by a multi-layer cooling system for smooth performance during extended use. Its camera setup includes a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 13MP front camera for content creation and video calls. Nova 2 Pro comes with  customisable back-panel lights, a premium 2.5D glass finish, dual stereo speakers and microphones, up to 1TB of expandable storage, and a 6000mAh battery which can support 33W fast charging — all running Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and advanced AI Key customisation. Starting at INR 14,999*

Nova 2 Ultra 5G - The Ultimate Freedom Day Upgrade

For those who want the best of everything in one device, the Nova 2 Ultra 5G is this sale's flagship pick. It's powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset with an octa-core CPU clocked at 2.6GHz and a Mali-G615 MC2 GPU, paired with VC cooling for sustained performance and a stunning 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1800 nits peak brightness. Its 50MP Sony IMX752 primary camera with OIS and 8MP wide-angle lens, powered by Matrix AI Camera processing, captures every moment in sharp detail, while the 13MP front camera makes group selfies and video calls effortless. The IP68-rated build comes with dynamic customisable back-panel lights, customisable action keys, up to 1TB of expandable storage, and a 6000mAh battery with 40W fast charging support. It ships with an 18W charger, a transparent TPU case, and a screen protector in the box. Available in Blue, Green, Purple, Black, and Red. Starting at INR 16,999*
 

Nova 2 5G - Your Everyday, Ride-or-Die Companion

Reliable, dependable, and built for everyday use, the Nova 2 5G features a 50MP camera for natural, sharp images, a 6000mAh battery for all-day power, and full dual-mode 5G support to keep you connected wherever you go. Available in five colours — Purple, Green, Pink, Blue, and Black — it runs on Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard. Starting at INR 11,999*

Pulse 2 4G: The Ideal First Smartphone

For first-time smartphone buyers who don't want to spend heavily, the Pulse 2 4G is the perfect companion. Powered by the Unisoc T7250 chipset and running on Android 16-based on NxtQuantum OS, it's built to make everyday tasks effortless, backed by a 6000mAh battery. It also features a best-in-segment 50MP AI rear camera for razor-sharp images, an 8MP selfie camera, and a spacious 6.75-inch 120Hz HD+ display for smooth, easy-on-the-eyes viewing. Its Available in Pink, Purple, Green, Blue, and Black, starting at INR 9,499*

*All prices are inclusive of INR 1000 bank offers available across all banks

About Ai+ Smartphone

Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company's Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India's first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to help customers manage both planned and unexpected expenses. Whether the requirement is for home renovation, higher education, travel, weddings or medical emergencies, the loan offers a convenient and collateral-free financing solution through a simple online application process.

What is new in Loan Utsav 2026?

Loan Utsav 2026 introduces an exclusive reward bundle for eligible customers who apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan during the campaign period. Extended until 10 September 2026, the campaign provides eligible customers an opportunity to access flexible financing along with additional lifestyle and entertainment benefits.

Customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed within the campaign period can avail of the reward bundle, which includes OTT subscriptions, music memberships, dining benefits, and vouchers. The rewards are applicable only on successful loan disbursal during the campaign period and are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

The reward bundle includes:

• Zee 5, Sony Liv & 14 other OTTs – 6 months free membership

• JioHotstar membership – 3 months

• Free 3-month Zomato Gold Membership

• Free 3-month JioSaavn Pro

• Free 45 Day Gaana membership

• Free 40+ Vouchers

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is a collateral-free financing solution that helps customers manage both planned and urgent expenses. Customers can apply online without pledging any asset as security.

The loan offers financing from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, making it suitable for different financial requirements. Borrowers can choose a repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months, helping them select an EMI that aligns with their financial situation.

What is new in the loan offering?

Along with the Loan Utsav reward bundle, the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan now offers a repayment tenure of up to 108 months.

The extended tenure provides customers with greater flexibility when planning repayments. Instead of opting for shorter repayment periods, eligible borrowers can spread repayments over a longer duration, which may help reduce monthly EMI obligations.

This feature is particularly useful for customers borrowing larger loan amounts or planning significant expenses.

Why does the extended tenure matter?

A longer repayment tenure gives borrowers more flexibility in managing their monthly finances.

Customers can choose a repayment period between 12 months and 108 months, depending on their eligibility and financial requirements. A longer tenure may result in lower monthly EMIs, making it easier to balance loan repayments with other household expenses.

This flexibility supports better financial planning while allowing customers to borrow according to their needs.

Who can benefit from the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is suitable for customers who require funds for various personal financial needs.

It can help finance:

• Wedding expenses

• Medical emergencies

• Home improvement projects

• Higher education

• Travel plans

Customers looking for flexible repayment options and quick access to funds may find the product suitable for managing both expected and unexpected expenses.

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?

The personal loan interest rate for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, depending on the applicant's eligibility and credit assessment.

The final interest rate may vary based on several factors, including the applicant's financial profile and applicable lending criteria.

Customers are encouraged to review the applicable personal loan interest rate before submitting their application to understand the expected borrowing cost.

How does the application process work?

Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to be simple and convenient.

Customers can complete the application online by providing basic personal and financial details and uploading the required documents. After verification and approval, eligible applicants can receive the loan amount within 24 hours*.

The process involves minimal documentation and does not require any collateral, making it easier for eligible customers to access funds.

Key features of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers several features designed to support different borrowing needs:

• Loan amount from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh

• Repayment tenure from 12 months to 108 months

• Personal loan interest rate ranging from 10% to 30.5% per annum

• Collateral-free financing

• Quick approval process

• Minimal documentation

• Disbursal within 24 hours* for eligible customers

• Limited-period Loan Utsav reward bundle for eligible applicants

A customer-focused lending approach

Bajaj Finance continues to focus on providing accessible and convenient lending solutions through a simple digital application process, simple eligibility criteria, and flexible repayment options. The addition of the Loan Utsav reward bundle further enhances the value available to eligible customers while supporting their financial goals.

Customers interested in a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan can check their eligibility and apply online through the official website or the app.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

The selected workers will get opportunities to work in the growing delivery sector, including delivery platforms such as Yandex and Uzum.

According to FedStartX Global Services, the company is mainly looking for hardworking and disciplined Indian workers who are ready to work regularly and responsibly in Tashkent.

Workers can earn around USD 600 to USD 800 per month, depending on their working hours, number of deliveries completed, incentives and overall performance. The actual income may be different for each worker based on the work completed.

The main work will include picking up and delivering food, groceries, parcels and other orders to customers across Tashkent.

Workers should know how to use a smartphone, Google Maps or other navigation applications. They should also be ready to follow local traffic rules, safety requirements and delivery instructions.

Previous delivery experience will be helpful. However, candidates without previous delivery experience who are ready to learn, work sincerely and maintain discipline can also apply.

FedStartX Global Services plans to recruit the 300 workers in different batches. Candidates will first go through a screening and selection process. Their documents and eligibility to work in Uzbekistan will also be checked before deployment.

The company said the recruitment is part of its plan to create more international work opportunities for Indian workers and support the growing delivery and logistics sector in Uzbekistan.

Interested Indian candidates can submit their applications online through the application form below.

Apply here:https://forms.fillout.com/t/3EnAGWyRWSus

Location: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Requirement: Around 300 Indian workers
Work: Delivery / Courier
Expected Earnings: USD 600–800 per month, based on work and performance
Recruitment: FedStartX Global Services

Real estate developers welcomed the RBI's decision to keep the repo rate unchanged, saying it has boosted confidence among stakeholders.
 

Real estate leaders welcomed the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, citing greater policy stability and stronger confidence across the sector
 

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “The decision by the RBI to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% would bring much-needed stability to the housing market, especially for first-time home purchasers. Predictable borrowing costs make long-term financial planning more practical and help buyers take ownership decisions with greater assurance.“
 

Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, said, “India's resilient economic outlook continues to provide a strong foundation for real estate, and the RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% adds further certainty to that trajectory. A measured monetary policy encourages long-term capital deployment across residential and commercial assets alike. This approach is expected to deepen investor participation and sustain the sector's growth over the coming quarters.”
 

Tejpreet Singh Gill, Managing Director, Gillco Group, said, "The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% provides much-needed stability for the housing market. With home loan rates expected to remain stable, buyers can plan their purchases with greater confidence, while developers can continue investing in project execution and future developments.”
 

Manoj Garg, CEO, Northwind Estates, said, “If 2025 was defined by successive reductions in interest rates, 2026 is increasingly emerging as a year of stability. The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% reinforces a policy environment that allows both homebuyers and developers to plan with greater certainty.”
 

Kushagr Ansal, Director, Ansal Housing, said, “Long-term homeownership decisions are closely linked with financial certainty, making the RBI's decision to retain the repo rate at 5.25% a welcome development for the residential market. The current interest rate environment allows housing demand to progress steadily while giving the sector greater visibility for future growth.”
 

Dr. Annkit A. Jayant, CEO, HP Global Infrra, said, “The RBI's decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% is a positive step that reinforces stability in the housing market. For emerging destinations like Haridwar, where demand is increasingly driven by end-users, retirees, second-home buyers, and wellness-focused investors, a stable interest rate environment enhances purchase confidence and supports long-term investment decisions.”
 

Sanchit Jain, Director, Sarvottam India, said, “The RBI's decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is an encouraging development for the real estate sector. It will strengthen the confidence of prospective homebuyers and enable developers to move forward with new projects with greater clarity. Housing demand continues to rise across several cities, including the NCR, driven by improved road connectivity, metro expansion, and other infrastructure developments.”
 

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Spectrum Metro, said, “Organised retail benefits greatly from a financing environment that offers clarity and consistency, making the RBI's decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% particularly encouraging. Expansion plans by leading brands, stronger leasing activity and growing consumer spending continue to shape quality retail destinations.”
 

In conclusion, this move by the RBI can be seen as a positive sign for the real estate industry, since the industry leaders are optimistic about the future of growth and policy stability that will promote homebuyers’ confidence, investments, and development.

• Successfully repositioned the company as a global Media-Tech and AI-powered platform, expanding beyond digital publishing into high-growth physical retail, commerce, and experiential ventures.

• Following the successful launch of media vertical of Time Out India, we are advancing toward the launch of India's first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi (targeted in early Q3 FY2026-2027), marking a significant milestone in our experiential media and hospitality growth strategy.

• Delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance, led by the Media-Tech business, with revenue surging to Rs. 35 Cr.—a remarkable 336% year-on-year growth over Q1 FY2025–26.

• Quintype remains the Group's key growth engine, delivering robust operational and financial performance while reinforcing its leadership in Media-Tech.

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance

Consolidated Financial Highlights

Revenue from Operations: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 35 Cr. | YoY Growth: 336%
Adjusted Profit Before Tax*: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 4.93 Cr.

* Post adjustment of interest cost and non-cash expenses viz. depreciation and stock option charge. This also includes adjustment of one-time pre-operating expenses of Rs. 1.04 Cr in relation to the launch of Time Out Media and Time Out Markets

Strong Operational Performance: Delivered an adjusted PBT of Rs. 4.93 Cr in Q1 FY2026–27, with the Company on track to achieve its strongest full-year operating performance to date.

Strategic Partnership with Time Out: Quint Digital set to launch India's first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi, with opening expected before Diwali.

Entry into the high-growth, scalable digital media-led commerce vertical is expected to significantly increase operating revenue and create a strong new growth engine for the Company.

Strong Media Tech Performance: Quintype's Media Tech operations delivered robust consolidated revenue of Rs. 33 crore, reflecting the strength and scalability.

Strategic Investment in Lee Enterprises

• Potential for value creation: Increased stake to 14.59% through the acquisition of additional shares @ USD 3.25 per share in Q4 FY 2025-2026. Stake valued at USD 29Mn#

• QDL recognized a mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 10.58 Cr. on its investment in Lee Enterprises in the current quarter. Overall mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 129 Cr.

• Strategic Synergy Potential: Lee Enterprises' ownership of BLOX Digital creates significant strategic synergy opportunities, strengthening QDL's ability to expand its footprint across the global media technology ecosystem. This partnership enhances QDL's long-term growth potential through the joint scaling of AI-powered newsroom solutions, enterprise digital publishing platforms, and next-generation media technologies.

# Closing price as on June 30, 2026 - USD 8.96 per share

# Mark-to-Market gains represent unrealized gains arising from the shareholding in Lee Enterprises. The reported value is subject to fluctuation based on movements in the underlying share price of Lee Enterprises on the NASDAQ.

About Quint Digital Limited

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) (QUINT, BSE 539515) is India’s leading digital and media-tech, AI-focused company. QDL creates innovative ideas in the digital space with cutting-edge technology and engaging formats to propel meaningful change. QDL holds a significant minority stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: “LEE”), a leading American media company that provides trusted local news and advertising services across 72 markets in 25 American states through nearly 350 digital platforms and print publications. QDL’s conglomerate offers various solutions ranging from news to tech innovations, recently strengthened by the acquisition of ListenFirst Media, a premium social media and digital analytics platform headquartered in New York, which enhances QDL’s capabilities in AI- driven audience insights and engagement strategies. Its flagship platform, The Quint, launched in 2015, delivers trusted, innovative journalism, while Quintype’s AI-powered editorial platform enables seamless content creation for over 300 publishers worldwide. QDL’s suite of brands also includes The News Minute, known for independent journalism from Southern India; Youth Ki Awaaz, a citizen media platform that amplifies the voices of India’s youth; and Kisan India, dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Indian agriculture. Quint Digital Limited is listed on the BSE Limited. The equity shares of Quint Digital Limited have been admitted to the permitted to trade category of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

Property Expo to be held at Noida
 

The showcase will feature a curated portfolio of premium apartments, luxury villas and lifestyle plots, with prices starting from Rs. 60 lakh*. Designed to simplify the home-buying journey, the event will enable visitors to compare multiple projects in a single visit while benefiting from exclusive event-only offers, home loan assistance and personalised consultations with SPRE's sales experts.
 

Speaking about the initiative, Ms. Rima Kirtikar, Chief Marketing Officer, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, said, "The enthusiastic response to our property showcases in Gurugram and Mumbai reaffirmed that today's homebuyers value the convenience of exploring multiple destinations and asset classes under one roof. We are delighted to bring this experience to Noida, a market with a discerning buyer base that actively evaluates investment opportunities across India's leading residential destinations. Through this showcase, we aim to simplify the home-buying journey by presenting a diverse portfolio that caters to varied aspirations and budgets while delivering the trust and quality associated with the Shapoorji Pallonji legacy."
 

The Noida showcase is expected to attract both end-users and investors looking to diversify their real estate portfolios across high-growth markets. Visitors will be able to evaluate projects spanning established metropolitan centres and emerging residential destinations, while receiving personalised guidance on pricing, financing and investment potential.
 

In addition to project presentations, the event will feature dedicated consultation zones, exclusive event-only offers and limited-period benefits, creating a comprehensive platform for buyers to discover, compare and invest in SPRE's residential developments.
 

Event Details

Date: 9th August 2026

Location: Fortune Hotel By ITC, Sector 27, Noida

Portfolio: 15 premium residential projects across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Gurugram and Howrah

Starting Price: Rs. 60 lakh*

About Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE)

Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate is a well-regarded, reputed player in the Indian real estate sector owing to its cutting-edge design innovation, construction quality, and architectural excellence. It constitutes a significant segment of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, an enormous multi-business conglomerate. The group has more than 160 years of legacy that bridges the earliest celebrated structures of India and the modern marvels. SPRE has made inroads into most Indian cities – Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune, Bengaluru, Gurugram, Howrah and Kolkata – with a variety of developments, from luxury apartments and opulent residences to aspirational homes for mid-income homebuyers, as well as one of the largest mass housing projects in India.

Ai+ Smartphone commits Rs. 100 crore through Project Trust+ to enhance security through community participation

Through the initiative, the company is inviting independent researchers to actively test its systems, challenge its security architecture and highlight vulnerabilities that can be addressed before they impact consumers. 

Project Trust+ is driven by the belief that security is an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. As digital landscapes become more interconnected, Ai+ emphasizes that building secure smartphones requires collaboration, transparency, and active participation from the community. This initiative aims to go beyond traditional bug bounty programs, fostering an open environment where developers, security researchers, and ethical hackers can collectively contribute to the safety and resilience of Ai+ products.

Commenting on the announcement, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, "Most companies tell users their devices are secure. We want to prove it. The reality is that no smartphone, no platform, and no technology ecosystem can claim security as a finished destination. It evolves every day. Project Trust+ reflects our belief that trust should be built transparently and collaboratively. We are opening our doors to India’s technology community because we believe the safest products are built not in isolation, but together."

The initiative further strengthens Ai+’s broader philosophy around transparency, privacy, and user ownership, values that also sit at the centre of NxtQuantum OS, the company’s sovereign mobile operating system initiative.

With Project Trust+, Ai+ Smartphone aims to shift the conversation around smartphone security from claims and promises to continuous improvement and public accountability.

Because when it comes to trust, the work is never complete.

To apply for the programme, visit the link in bio on Madhav’s IG handle

Project Trust+ Because Trust Is Built Together.

About Ai+ Smartphone
Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company's Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India's first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Among the notable winners, Dr. Nechupadam Dental, Kochi was honoured with the "Best Dental Clinic" award for providing exceptional dental care through advanced technology, patient-centric treatment, and a commitment to oral healthcare excellence.

SSB Properties received the "Best Property Consultants in Bengaluru" award in recognition of its trusted real estate advisory services, transparent business practices, and dedication to helping clients make informed property investments.

Kolkata Meat, represented by Mr. Mohammed Sharik Alam, was awarded "Best Fresh Meat" for maintaining superior quality standards, freshness, hygiene, and customer trust in the meat industry.

Bhimboys Cold Foods earned the award for "High Quality Machines for Ice Cream", recognizing the company's excellence in manufacturing reliable, innovative, and efficient ice cream machinery that supports businesses across the food and beverage sector.

In the education category, VedaVihaan The Global School (Navdip Educational Trust) was honoured with the "Best Pre-Academic Innovative Curriculum" award for its progressive approach to early childhood education, nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and holistic development among young learners.

Ms. Prachi Dilkar was recognized as the "Best Yoga & Meditation Coach" for her dedication to promoting physical wellness, mental health, and mindful living through transformative yoga and meditation practices.

Adding to the list of distinguished awardees, Raap's Digital Studio received the "Most Trusted Photographer in Hyderabad" award for delivering exceptional photography services, creative excellence, and consistently capturing memorable moments with professionalism and artistic vision.

Speaking on the occasion, the organizers at NEWZFACTS stated that these awards recognize organizations and professionals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment, innovation, and excellence in serving their customers and communities. The recognition serves as an inspiration for businesses across industries to continue striving for higher standards and meaningful impact.

The NEWZFACTS Excellence Awards continue to honour visionary leaders, outstanding enterprises, and dedicated professionals whose achievements contribute significantly to India's growing business ecosystem. By recognizing excellence across diverse sectors, the platform reinforces the importance of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in shaping the future of Indian industry.

The event brought together distinguished personalities from across the country and served as a platform to recognize individuals and businesses that have consistently demonstrated excellence, innovation, customer satisfaction, and ethical business practices.

Among the distinguished award recipients, Dr. Faiz Alam received the "Best Physiotherapist in North India" award in recognition of his exceptional contribution to physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and patient care.

J Joshi Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. was honoured with the "Best Real Estate Developer in Gujarat" award for its excellence in infrastructure development and commitment to delivering high-quality real estate projects.

Mumbai-based Indigloo Softwares Pvt. Ltd. was recognized as the "Leading Software Development Company in Mumbai" for its innovative technology solutions and significant contribution to digital transformation across industries.

In the healthcare category, Dr. Gaurav Jaswal was honoured as the "Most Promising Radiation Oncologist – Maharashtra" for his dedication to advancing cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes through modern radiation oncology.

Gujarat Bullion Refinery Limited earned the title of "Gujarat's Most Trusted Bullion Refinery" for maintaining exceptional standards of purity, transparency, and trust in the precious metals industry.

Recognizing excellence in the digital sector, Dr. Janmejay Sahu, CEO of Rebecca Digital, received the "Most Promising Digital Marketing & Web Development Agency in Mumbai" award for leading innovative digital marketing and web development initiatives that help businesses achieve sustainable growth in the digital era.

Gandharva Finchart Enterprises LLP was honoured as the "Most Leading Finance Broker in Mumbai" for delivering reliable financial advisory and brokerage services with professionalism and a customer-centric approach.

Adpro Engineering And Power Pvt. Ltd. received the "Best Service Providers for Fire & Safety Manpower" award for its significant contribution to industrial safety through skilled manpower solutions and dependable fire and safety services.

Mistry Bhejo was recognized as the "Most Trusted Construction & Home Improvement Platform of the Year" for its commitment to connecting customers with trusted construction and home improvement professionals while delivering transparent, reliable, and customer-focused services.

Completing the list of distinguished honourees, SSB Properties received the "Best Real Estate Services in Karnataka" award for its excellence in providing trusted, transparent, and customer-focused real estate solutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, a spokesperson for Eminent Research said:

"The NATIONAL ICON AWARDS are dedicated to recognizing organizations and professionals who continuously raise industry standards through innovation, quality, and integrity. Every award winner represents the spirit of excellence that drives India's growth story, and we are proud to honour their remarkable achievements."

Addressing the gathering, Bollywood actor Sanjay Kapoor congratulated the winners and applauded their dedication to excellence.

"Success is built through passion, perseverance, and commitment. It is inspiring to witness so many outstanding individuals and organizations being recognized for their hard work and meaningful contributions. I congratulate every award recipient and wish them continued success in the years ahead."

The evening concluded with a celebration of achievement, networking, and inspiration, reaffirming Eminent Research's commitment to recognizing India's most deserving professionals and enterprises. The NATIONAL ICON AWARDS 2026 once again highlighted the vital role of innovation, leadership, and excellence in shaping the nation's future while providing a prestigious platform for businesses and professionals to gain national recognition.

Hyderabad just got India's first 8K, largest anamorphic DOOH screen, built on Absen A25 LED panels for deep-perspective 3D without glasses. The company eyes Gurugram next
 

DOOH is emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments within the advertising ecosystem, driven by its ability to deliver data-driven, real-time, and visually striking brand experiences at scale. With this launch, Hyderabad joins a select group of global cities investing in next-generation digital infrastructure for advertising and public engagement.
 

Spanning 586.14 square meters of continuous L-shaped display area (roughly the size of eight pickleball courts, or two basketball courts), the installation at SAS iTower in Nanakramguda is India's largest cinematic digital screen and Hyderabad's first-ever 8K DOOH display. It is powered by advanced Absen A25 series LED panels and programmed for deep-perspective anamorphic content, creating hyper-realistic 3D visual effects, without the need for 3D glasses, that make objects appear to leap off the flat panels. The display has already become a landmark media wall in Hyderabad's Financial District, drawing crowds and generating viral attention for its high-definition cinematic content and brand activations.
 

To put its scale in context: the average DOOH screen across India measures roughly 20ft x 10ft, and the largest screen in Hyderabad prior to this installation stood at 80ft x 10ft. The new display at SAS iTower significantly surpasses both benchmarks, positioning Hyderabad among a small set of Indian cities with large-format, 8K-capable cinematic DOOH infrastructure.
 

Screen and Technology Specifications

• Size: 586.14 sq. m of continuous L-shaped display area (~8 pickleball courts / 2 basketball courts)

• Resolution: Hyderabad's first 8K DOOH display

• Technology: Absen A25 series LED panels

• Visual Effects: Deep-perspective anamorphic content enabling realistic 3D depth without glasses
  ​

"Outdoor advertising in India is at an inflection point. Brands don't just want visibility anymore, they want screens that make people stop, look up, and remember what they saw. That's the space Iconic by ONE VISION was built for," said Abhinav Reddy, Founder, Iconic by ONE VISION. "We set out to build large-format, cinematic-grade DOOH infrastructure across India's growing cities, and today we're present in five: Bangalore, Bhopal, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram and Bhubaneswar. Hyderabad is our biggest canvas yet, but it's far from the last. We're entering Gurugram by the end of this year, with more states to follow in 2027. This is just the start of what we're building."
 

Strong Brand Traction from Day One

Since going live, Iconic by ONE VISION's screens have already attracted major national brands, including Apple's iPhone 17 launch campaign on the company's Bhopal screen and Prestige Group's apartment launch campaign in Bangalore. The Hyderabad installation is off to a strong start of its own: three campaigns already booked within its second week of operations, an early signal of demand for large-format, high-impact DOOH in the city. Across its network, Iconic by ONE VISION works with leading names in real estate, jewellery and hospitality, the categories most drawn to the format's scale and visibility.
 

With premium ad slots filling up quickly, the company is inviting brands in real estate, jewellery, automotive and financial services to plan campaigns ahead of the festive season, as slots around Dussehra are expected to sell out.
 

A Growing National Footprint

The Hyderabad launch adds to Iconic by ONE VISION's presence across six cities: Bangalore, Bhopal, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar and Hyderabad. Its screen at DB Mall in Bhopal holds a similar distinction locally, as the largest anamorphic display in Madhya Pradesh. In its first year of operations, the company crossed Rs. 1 crore in overall business, a milestone Reddy credits to growing brand appetite for large-format, immersive advertising formats across India's metro and emerging urban markets.
 

Key highlights of the launch include:

• A landmark for Hyderabad's advertising ecosystem: the vision behind bringing India's largest DOOH display to the city and its significance for local brands and businesses.

• A technological first: Hyderabad's first 8K DOOH display, over 7x the size of the city's previous largest screen.

• The future of outdoor advertising: how DOOH is transforming static formats into dynamic, data-driven, and immersive brand experiences.

• A premium channel for brand visibility: why digital outdoor media is becoming essential for brands seeking stronger recall and engagement.

• A national growth story: five cities, Rs. 1 crore in first-year business, and expansion into Gurugram and new states on the horizon.
  ​

A glimpse of the installation can be viewed here: Instagram Reel
 

About Iconic by ONE VISION

Founded by Abhinav Reddy in July 2024, Iconic by ONE VISION builds large-format, cinematic-grade digital out-of-home (DOOH) infrastructure, including some of India's most technically advanced anamorphic 3D screens. The company operates across six cities, Bangalore, Bhopal, Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar and now Hyderabad, and has run campaigns for national brands including Apple and Prestige Group. In its first year of operations, Iconic by ONE VISION crossed Rs. 1 crore in business, and continues to expand nationally, with Gurugram set to go live by the end of 2026.

DS Group's Pulse Candy Collaborates with the Recent Spider-Man Movie with A 360-Degree Consumer Engagement Campaign

The campaign comes alive through a high-impact creative narrative that reimagines Spider-Man's iconic persona and Pulse’s irresistible flavour, celebrating the candy's irresistible appeal. The co-branded film depicts the superhero using his signature web to capture Pulse, while innovative outdoor installations extend the storytelling with larger-than-life visuals of Spider-Man reaching across adjoining billboards to grab the candy. Running from the last week of July to August 30 across digital, outdoor, cinema, retail and social media touchpoints, the integrated execution seamlessly blends entertainment with brand storytelling to reinforce that the candy is so compelling even a superhero cannot resist it. At the heart of this nationwide 360-degree initiative are limited-edition co-branded packs, which transform the product itself into a powerful medium that maximizes visibility and gives consumers a memorable, immersive way to take the collaboration home.

Commenting on the collaboration, Arvind Kumar, Senior General Manager, Marketing, Confectionery, DS Group, said, "Pulse Candy has consistently built strong consumer connections by creating experiences that are innovative, culturally relevant and groundbreaking. Spider-Man is one of the world's most iconic entertainment franchises, with exceptional relevance among Gen Z while also enjoying immense cross-generational appeal. This collaboration reflects our continued focus on building Pulse Candy at the intersection of entertainment and popular culture. Through this campaign, we aim to deepen consumer engagement, strengthen brand affinity and create memorable experiences that celebrate the irresistible appeal of Pulse Candy."

Speaking about the partnership, Shony Panjikaran, General Manager and Head, Sony Pictures Releasing International, India said, "Spider-Man has remained one of the world's most loved superheroes, captivating audiences across generations with his enduring appeal and inspiring stories. We're delighted to collaborate with Pulse Candy, one of India's most loved confectionery brands, on a campaign that creatively extends the excitement of Spider-Man: Brand New Day beyond the big screen. This collaboration offers fans a fun and engaging way to celebrate the film while creating memorable experiences through innovative consumer engagement."

About Spider-Man: Brand New Day

It's a BRAND NEW DAY for Peter Parker. Fighting crime full-time as Spider-Man in a world that doesn’t remember him—and the pressure of seeing his old friends move on without him—sparks a change in Peter he may not have the power to control. But that transformation might also be the only thing that can stop a shocking new threat to the city and those he loves - a powerful villain no one can even see. The world may have forgotten Peter Parker, but he hasn’t forgotten them.

About Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. Sony Pictures Television operates dozens of wholly-owned or joint-venture production companies around the world. SPE’s Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, 3000 Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, Sony Pictures International Productions, and Sony Pictures Classics.

For additional information, visit www.sonypictures.com/corp/divisions.html

About DS Group

The DS Group (Dharampal Satyapal Group) is a one of the leading FMCG conglomerates and a multi-business Corporation with a strong Indian and International presence. Founded in the year 1929, it is an inspiring and successful business story that blends a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. It has an extensive and diverse portfolio with presence in Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Freshener, Hospitality, Agri, Luxury Retail businesses, and other investments. Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Silver Pearls, Ksheer, Rajnigandha, Ovino, L’Opera, Le Marche, Birthright, LuvIt, Chingles, Golmol, Namah are some of the leading brands, the Group proudly shelters today.

As a corporate, DS Group is guided by a clear set of values that are built on a strong foundation of collective good to give back to society and protect the planet. The DS Headquarters has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, under the USGBC (US Green Building Council) existing building O&M (Operation and Maintenance) program version 4.0. The DS Headquarters has also received LEED Zero Carbon Certification, by the USGBC. DS Group has aligned its financial performance with global ESG priorities with the launch of a pioneering Double Materiality Assessment across all businesses. Further demonstrating its environmental leadership, the DS Group has a water positivity index at 1.8 across its business units in 30 locations of India.

For additional information, visit www.dsgroup.com

Stable EMIs and borrowing costs support sustained housing demand across India

Amidst this, the Reserve Bank of India’s decision to retain the repo rate at 5.25 per cent will aid the ongoing momentum in the Indian residential real estate industry. It is a sign of policy stability in a world of global uncertainty.

Abhishek Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan IRIS, said, “The RBI's announcement to maintain the status quo on the repo rate was largely expected. More importantly, it reflects the fact that the market has now adjusted well to the current interest-rate environment. Homebuyers are increasingly taking a long-term view of their purchase decisions, while developers continue to plan investments with greater visibility. The steady demand witnessed over recent quarters suggests that purchase decisions are increasingly anchored in economic confidence and product value.”

The central bank’s calibrated approach implies continuity, not disruption, as energy prices and geopolitical concerns keep stoking inflation. Such stability is important in a sector like real estate to keep buyer sentiment and developer confidence. This impact is particularly significant for homebuyers who are highly dependent on home loans to fund their purchase. Keeping the repo rate unchanged with keep loan EMIs stable, and there will be no pressure from rising borrowing costs, placing buyers in a better position to plan for the long term.

Sehaj Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC Group, said, “The announcement reinforces an important message: the RBI remains confident about the resilience of the Indian economy and has decided to maintain the status quo on the repo rate. This approach is well suited to a sector like real estate, where buying decisions are rarely driven by short-term interest-rate movements alone. Strong domestic demand, improving economic prospects and a stable financing environment should continue to support healthy momentum across the residential market.”

The unchanged rates provide continuity in financing conditions, enabling developers to better plan project timelines and pricing strategies. This is relevant in mid-income and upper mid-income housing, where both construction financing and buyer affordability are closely linked to interest rates.

Mitul Jain, Managing Director, SPJ Group, said, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% while retaining a neutral stance is a balanced approach amidst the evolving dynamics of inflationary pressures and global uncertainties, which continue to shape the economic outlook. For homebuyers, it brings stability and positivity as home loan interest rates and EMIs are expected to remain largely unchanged. While we believe a rate cut could have further improved affordability and encouraged first-time homebuyers, policy continuity provides confidence to both buyers and developers, enabling informed long-term decisions.”

The policy stance keeps liquidity conditions supportive without triggering excessive demand-side pressure. This balance is critical at a time when the sector is witnessing healthy, end-user-driven growth rather than speculative activity.

Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group, said, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% amidst inflationary risks stemming from global crude price movements shows a continued commitment to a patient and data-driven policy approach. This stance helps to keep borrowing costs steady and keep liquidity conditions accommodative for homebuyers and developers. A rate cut might have given housing demand a further boost, but staying the course looks like a reasonable approach amid the evolving macro picture.”

Mayank Jain, CEO, KREEVA, added, "Consistency in interest rates has quietly become one of the biggest contributors to the housing market's resilience. By keeping the repo rate unchanged, the RBI has ensured that buyers and developers can continue making long-term decisions without having to revisit their financial assumptions. The strength of the residential market over recent quarters suggests that demand is increasingly being driven by product quality, location and long-term value. Stable borrowing conditions simply allow those underlying drivers to remain in focus."

Beyond the metro cities, stable interest rates are also supporting demand in emerging regional markets, where end-user purchases are rising alongside infrastructure development and urbanisation.

Gurinder Bhatti, Chairman and Managing Director, GB Realty, said, “By maintaining the repo rate at 5.25%, the RBI has ensured stability at a time when the housing sector continues to benefit from healthy end-user demand and improving buyer sentiment. Punjab is no longer solely an NRI-driven market as we are witnessing a growing base of local homebuyers looking to upgrade to organised, high-quality developments. Stable interest rates provide predictability in borrowing costs, strengthen buyer confidence, and encourage long-term investment in housing.”

Overall, the RBI’s decision has reinforced a stable operating environment for the residential real estate sector. Predictable financing costs and stable EMIs continue to support purchase decisions among mid-segment homebuyers, helping sustain momentum in residential demand over the coming months.

Chitkara University hosted the AIKosh University Engagement Programme under the IndiaAI Mission, where 250 CSE (AI) students participated in the workshop

The IndiaAI Mission, approved by the Government of India in March 2024 under the aegis of the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), aims to establish India as a global leader in artificial intelligence by fostering technological self-reliance, enabling ethical and responsible AI development, and ensuring that the benefits of AI reach diverse sections of society.

As part of the IndiaAI Mission, AIKosh has been established as a comprehensive platform to facilitate access to datasets, AI models, tools, and other critical resources. Through the University Engagement Programme, AIKosh seeks to deepen AI adoption in academia, nurture emerging talent, and create opportunities for students and researchers to contribute to India’s growing AI landscape.

As part of this engagement, 250+ students from the Computer Science Engineering (Artificial Intelligence) programme at Chitkara University participated in the programme on August 6, 2026, gaining exposure to national-level AI resources, industry-relevant tools, and emerging practices in artificial intelligence.

Chitkara University is now onboarded with AIKosh as a contributor.

Speaking on this milestone, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-founder, Chitkara University, said, "Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way we learn, innovate, and solve complex challenges. At Chitkara University, we have always believed in preparing our students for the technologies that will shape the future. Being selected for the AIKosh University Engagement Programme under the IndiaAI Mission is a recognition of our commitment towards creating future-ready professionals equipped with knowledge, skills, and a responsible understanding of AI. This collaboration will empower our students to engage with cutting-edge AI resources and contribute meaningfully to India’s vision of becoming a global AI leader."

Speaking on the initiative, Shri Md. Y. Safirulla K IAS, Director, IndiaAI Mission, said: "Guided by the vision of our Honourable Prime Minister to democratize AI, we are committed to ensuring its transformative benefits reach every individual across the nation. This commitment rests upon three foundational pillars—People, Planet, and Progress—a philosophy prominently showcased during the IndiaAI Impact Summit in February 2026. As part of our University Engagement Programme, we will work to showcase the multifaceted elements of India's thriving AI ecosystem across educational institutions nationwide this year."

The participation of Chitkara University in the AIKosh University Engagement Programme aligns with its continued focus on emerging technologies, interdisciplinary learning, and industry-oriented education. The University has been actively strengthening its AI ecosystem through advanced academic programmes, research initiatives, innovation-driven learning, and collaborations aimed at preparing students for the evolving digital economy.

Through this association, Chitkara University continues to advance its mission of nurturing technology leaders who can leverage artificial intelligence for responsible innovation and contribute towards building a digitally empowered India.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.

The association marks an exciting chapter in FLITE's evolving style journey as the brand continues to strengthen its connect with today's style-conscious consumers. Together, Ali Fazal and Sanya Malhotra embody confidence, effortless style, and individuality, making them the perfect duo to represent the FLITE Buckle Collection.

At the heart of the association is the FLITE Buckle Collection - a range that reflects FLITE's vision of contemporary style. Created for today's fashion-conscious consumers, the collection celebrates confidence, self-expression, and effortless style, inspiring them to embrace every occasion with A Naya Andaaz. The campaign will unfold through three films, beginning with the Monsoon season, followed by Festive & Wedding celebrations, and concluding with an Eid-themed film. While each film captures a distinct consumer moment, they are united by a single thought—' Style Ka Naya Andaaz'—encouraging consumers to embrace footwear as an extension of their personal style. 

Watch the campaign film here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dbf7EW-yNV7/?igsh=MWV4aWc2b2NkanN3Yw%3D%3D

Mr. Gaurav Kumaar Dua, Co-Chief Executive Officer & Whole Time Director, Relaxo Footwears Ltd., said: "Today's consumers see style as an expression of who they are, and at FLITE, we are continuously evolving to meet these aspirations. The Buckle Collection embodies this vision by bringing together contemporary style with everyday comfort. We are delighted to welcome Ali Fazal to the FLITE family alongside our Brand Ambassador, Sanya Malhotra. Together, they bring the spirit of 'Style Ka Naya Andaaz' to life, inspiring consumers to embrace confidence, individuality, and effortless style for every occasion."

With Ali Fazal joining Brand Ambassador Sanya Malhotra, FLITE continues to strengthen its connect with consumers through 'Style Ka Naya Andaaz,' bringing the Buckle Collection to life across seasons and occasions.

About Relaxo Footwears Ltd.

Incorporated in 1984, Relaxo is the largest footwear manufacturer in India and has been serving the nation for four decades. Ranked among the top 500 Most Valuable Companies (Fortune 500 India), Relaxo is synonymous with quality products and affordable prices. It manufactures slippers, sandals, and sports & casual shoes.

Its most popular brands – Relaxo, Sparx, Flite, and Bahamas – each lead their respective segments. Relaxo, an iconic brand known for its rubber slippers, is a versatile choice for all sections of society. Flite offers a stylish range of fashionable and semi-formal slippers. Sparx reflects the attitude, style, and energy of young India through its sports shoes, sandals, and slippers. Bahamas captures the spirit of freedom, fun, and youth through its vibrant flip-flops.

With a pan-India distribution footprint, Relaxo also operates a strong network of 400+ exclusive retail outlets, and its products are widely available across major e-commerce platforms, large-format stores, and global markets.

 Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

Fodxpert is far more than a conventional advertising platform. It operates as a curated, premium DOOH network featuring AI-powered digital kiosk screens installed at eye level near dining tables in over 500 top-tier restaurants across key metro cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. This unique placement ensures uninterrupted, non-skippable visibility for brands targeting affluent, high-spending urban professionals, decision-makers, and lifestyle influencers in a relaxed, contextual dining environment,an advantage traditional outdoor or digital ads simply cannot match.

The platform’s effectiveness stems from deep consumer insights: while not every mobile scroll translates into a potential customer, every visitor to a premium restaurant represents a high-intent, receptive audience. Diners enjoy extended dwell times in a premium setting, making them more open to lifestyle, luxury, financial, and aspirational messaging. Brands benefit from contextual relevance, superior recall, measurable performance tracking, and stronger conversion potential at a fraction of the cost of mass-market impressions.

Within five years, Fodxpert has earned the trust of India’s leading corporations, executing impactful campaigns for names such as Mastercard, HDFC Bank, Adani Group, Godrej Group, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Airtel, Croma, IDFC, Sony, Colgate, Maybelline, and many others.

Qureshi’s leadership has been instrumental in navigating early challenges. Onboarding premium restaurants required building deep trust, addressing concerns around brand identity, ambiance preservation, and customer experience. Working closely with Co-Founder Khushi Singh, the team developed a mutually beneficial revenue-sharing model that allows restaurants to monetize their space without any intrusion — installing high-quality 55-inch HD screens at no cost to partners while enabling them to showcase their own promotions alongside brand content. This win-win approach turned initial hurdles into a robust, scalable network.

Alongside the founder, the journey of Fodxpert has also been strongly driven by Co-Founder and CEO Khushi Singh, whose dedication over the last five years has played a major role in transforming the vision into reality. From onboarding leading restaurants and major brands to building strong industry relationships, she has consistently focused on expanding the network and maintaining year-on-year growth for the organization. Her leadership, operational strength, and commitment towards the brand have helped Fodxpert establish itself as one of the emerging names in the DOOH advertising space across India’s metro cities.

A defining milestone in Fodxpert’s evolution has been the successful development and deployment of its proprietary, in-house screen management software. After three years of dedicated development by an internal tech team, this platform now delivers centralized real-time control, dynamic ad scheduling, performance analytics, and seamless integration across multiple cities. This technological backbone has unlocked efficient scaling and positioned the company for its next aggressive growth phase.

With strong foundations in place, Fodxpert is now accelerating expansion. Plans include deepening presence in existing metros while targeting a nationwide network of 10,000 screens within the next three years, followed by entry into the GCC market. The self-funded model underscores Qureshi’s confidence — drawing on his personal investment and entrepreneurial vision across ventures like Inbox Pictures, Buzzzooka, T3 Streaming, and B3 Hospitality. This diversified portfolio, spanning film production, digital entertainment, and hospitality, creates powerful synergies that enhance Fodxpert’s access to premium networks and innovative storytelling.

Sajid Qureshi’s journey reflects a broader philosophy of building enduring, evergreen businesses. Restaurants will always thrive as social and experiential hubs, brands will continually seek premium visibility, and consumers will favor authentic physical moments. Fodxpert capitalizes on this reality by creating a lifetime-value advertising infrastructure where dining seamlessly meets brand storytelling.

As Qureshi looks to the future, his vision remains clear and ambitious: to establish Fodxpert as India’s dominant restaurant DOOH powerhouse and a globally respected premium audience platform. With five years of proven execution, proprietary technology, an enviable brand roster, and disciplined expansion strategy, Fodxpert is not merely participating in the evolution of out-of-home advertising, it is redefining it, one premium dining table at a time. Under Sajid Qureshi’s leadership, this innovative media venture stands poised to transform how brands connect with India’s most valuable consumers.

Distinguished industry representatives at the 20th edition of India’s premier marketing conference, Marketing Conclave (MarCon), organised by the IAMAI, powered by Google, in Mumbai

“In the emerging agentic era, the marketing opportunity shifts from search visibility to providing the precise answers and context that enable AI agents to act on a consumer’s behalf—always with explicit permission. We are working with the industry to lay the foundation of agentic commerce with open standards like the Universal Commerce Protocol to help brands thrive and build deeper, more valuable customer relationships. As we see, agentic capabilities are redefining how people search, discover, and shop," he added.

AI has become the talking point for the entertainment industry. At a session on ‘The Producer’s Paybook: TV, OTT and What Comes Next’, Goldie Behl, Filmmaker & Founder, Rose Audio Visuals, said, "AI is a tool that will enhance creativity. Ultimately, it will be human intelligence and AI working together. Human intelligence will always be driving storytelling.” Behl further added that AI should be viewed as a creative tool rather than a replacement for writers, while stressing the need for regulations around how AI learns from existing content and intellectual property rights.

Behl noted that OTT has undergone its own evolution, with the next wave of opportunities coming from brand-backed storytelling. “But, creators must understand and authentically communicate a brand's ethos,” he added.

The second day of the conference saw participation from notable industry experts, including Prashant Gutch, Head, Search & Shopping, Ads Marketing, Google; Poorva Bhatikar, Industry Head - Mobility, Google; Archit Goyal, Search & Performance Specialist, Google; Aviral Chandra, President Marketing, Shriram General Insurance; Pankaj Sharma, Chief Executive Officer & Director, MGID; Arpit Mankar, Senior Vice President – Head – NonBollywood, Shemaroo Entertainment; Somnath Mukherjee, Head of Programmatic and Performance Marketing, Reliance Retail, and Vinay Bhartia, Director - MEA & West Asia, Semrush, who shared insights on the evolving digital marketing landscape. MarCon featured an expo with participation from more than 30 leading marketing and technology companies. Over two days, the conference witnessed a footfall of more than 2,000. 

Among the partners of Marketing Conclave 2026 are Affinity Global Advertising, Consumr.ai, Connect Network, DoubleTick, Google, Helo.ai, mFilterIt, PubLive, Vonage, BC Web Wise, LS Digital, Truecaller, Semrush (An Adobe Company), ORIGIN8, Exotel, Shemaroo and many more.

About Internet and Mobile Association of India  
The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) is a not-for-profit industry body with more than 800 members, including Indian and multinational corporations, as well as start-ups. IAMAI has been instrumental in shaping India’s digital economy. IAMAI advocates free and fair competition, and progressive and enabling laws for businesses as well as for consumers. The overarching objective of IAMAI is to ensure the progress of the internet and the digital economy. Its major areas of activities are public policy and advocacy, business to business conferences, research, promotion of start-ups and promotion of consumer trust and safety. 

Internationally acclaimed model, celebrity, and influencer Usha Gururajarao is all set to captivate the global fashion industry as the Celebrity Showstopper for Label Nimisha at New York Fashion Week on September 13, 2026.

Fresh from her remarkable appearance on the Cannes Film Festival 2026 Red Carpet, Usha continues her impressive international journey by taking center stage at one of fashion’s most prestigious events. Known for her elegance, confidence, and influential presence, she has become an inspiration to aspiring models and fashion enthusiasts across the globe.

The runway presentation by Label Nimisha, founded by Indian fashion designer Nimisha Singh, is expected to showcase a collection that celebrates timeless craftsmanship blended with contemporary luxury. Usha’s presence as the celebrity showstopper marks another milestone for the designer, further strengthening the brand’s growing international recognition.

Speaking about the collaboration, the Label Nimisha team expressed excitement over welcoming Usha Gururajarao to headline the showcase, describing her as a perfect representation of grace, empowerment, and modern glamour.

Having recently represented glamour on the global stage at Cannes, Usha’s appearance at New York Fashion Week reflects her continued rise as an internationally recognized personality in fashion and entertainment. Her participation also highlights the increasing global influence of Indian talent in the luxury fashion industry.

The highly anticipated runway show on September 13, 2026, promises an unforgettable celebration of couture, creativity, and international excellence, with Usha Gururajarao leading the finale as the Celebrity Showstopper for Label Nimisha, creating yet another defining moment in the brand’s global journey.

This season marks a significant milestone in her global fashion journey—her fifth showcase at New York Fashion Week and third showcase at Paris Fashion Week—further establishing her growing presence on some of the world’s most prestigious runways.

Renowned for blending contemporary luxury with the richness of Indian craftsmanship, Nimisha Singh continues to present collections that celebrate creativity, confidence, and individuality. Her latest creations promise a fresh artistic direction, featuring refined silhouettes, intricate detailing, luxurious fabrics, and modern designs inspired by empowerment and self-expression.

“Every international runway has shaped my journey as a designer,” says Nimisha Singh. “Returning to New York for the fifth time and Paris for the third time is both an honour and a responsibility. With every collection, I strive to showcase the beauty of Indian craftsmanship while creating fashion that speaks to a global audience.”

Over the years, Label Nimisha has steadily expanded its international footprint, earning recognition for its distinctive aesthetic and commitment to excellence. Each showcase reflects the brand’s vision of bringing Indian design to the forefront of global fashion while embracing innovation and timeless elegance.

Fashion editors, buyers, celebrities, influencers, and international media are expected to witness Label Nimisha’s newest collections as they debut on two of the industry’s biggest stages. The upcoming showcases are anticipated to highlight the evolution of the designer’s creative vision and reinforce the growing influence of Indian designers in the global luxury fashion landscape.

With five successful appearances at New York Fashion Week and three at Paris Fashion Week, Nimisha Singh continues to build an inspiring international legacy. Her journey stands as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the limitless potential of Indian fashion on the world stage.

Bajaj AMC’s new SIP journey

How to start an SIP with Bajaj AMC

Before you begin, keep your PAN and registered mobile phone with you. You will also need access to the bank account from which your SIP instalments will be paid. Then, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Sign in and choose a fund

Click on “Invest Now” or the user icon at the top of the Bajaj AMC website (www.bajajamc.com). This will take you to the transaction portal.

There, enter your PAN and complete the required verification using the OTP sent to your registered mobile phone number or email address. You will also need to enter or set a four-digit PIN for enhanced security.

This will take you to the account home page, where you can browse the available mutual fund schemes.

Step 2: Enter and review your SIP details

Once you choose a fund, click on ‘Start SIP’. Then, enter the amount that you want to invest, the investment frequency, the start date, and the duration. You will also see an “Investment Mode” drop-down menu. Here, you can choose between a Direct Plan and a Regular Plan.

A Direct Plan is purchased directly from the mutual fund, while a Regular Plan is purchased through a mutual fund distributor. The two plans invest in the same underlying portfolio but have different expense ratios – the cost of the Regular Plan is slightly higher because it accounts for a distributor commission. Consider whether you prefer to make and manage your investments independently or with distributor assistance.

Before continuing, review all the details carefully. Then, read and accept the terms and conditions and click on “Invest”.

Step 3: Set up AutoPay

The final step is to create an AutoPay mandate. This authorises your bank to debit the SIP amount on the scheduled dates.

Choose an AutoPay method, such as UPI, net banking or debit card. You will then be redirected to your payment app or bank’s page. Review the mandate details and approve the request.

Consider choosing a sufficiently high mandate amount to give you room to add or increase SIPs later. The mandate amount only sets the maximum debit limit; the actual deduction will be based on your SIP instalment.

For the duration, if you have a fixed date in mind, you can select the number of instalments. If not, select “Until I stop” to keep the SIP active until you cancel it.

After the mandate has been successfully registered, your SIP setup is complete, and the money will be debited from your account on the scheduled date (subject to applicable processing timelines). You can also view the transaction and SIP details in your Bajaj AMC account.

For investors who already have an existing mandate with Bajaj AMC, the investment process is even simpler and quicker. Investors who are new to Bajaj AMC will need to create their account and folio through a convenient and guided onboarding journey. Those who are not KYC Validated will also need to complete their Know Your Customer process.

Bajaj Asset Management Limited or Bajaj AMC was formerly known as Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Limited.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.
This document should not be treated as endorsement of the views/opinions or as investment advice. This document should not be construed as a research report or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. This document is for information purpose only and should not be construed as a promise on minimum returns or safeguard of capital. This document alone is not sufficient and should not be used for the development or implementation of an investment strategy. The recipient should note and understand that the information provided above may not contain all the material aspects relevant for making an investment decision. Investors are advised to consult their own investment advisor before making any investment decision in light of their risk appetite, investment goals and horizon. This information is subject to change without any prior notice.

Captain Rahul Bali & Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi
 

The conclave organised by Interview Times, brought together dignitaries like Honourable Member of Parliament Shri R.N. Behera, CEO of Startup Odisha Sh. S.R. Pradhan IAS, Consul General of India in Auckland Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Mahapatra, CEO of TPCODL Sh. Gajanan S. Kale and Chairman Kiri Industries Sh. Manish Kiri as well as distinguished policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, diplomats, academicians and business executives from across India to deliberate on Odisha’s growth trajectory and its vision for becoming a developed and globally competitive state.
 

Addressing the gathering, Captain Rahul Bali presented his keynote titled “Celebrating Odisha – Building a Global Destination Through Culture, Art & Tourism”, highlighting how Odisha’s extraordinary cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, artistic excellence, natural beauty and tourism assets can be strategically leveraged to drive economic growth, investment and international visibility.
 

Captain Bali commended the Government of Odisha under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi for its commitment towards accelerating economic development, infrastructure creation, tourism promotion and investment attraction.
 

He also lauded the efforts of Dr. Dibyajit Sahu in making the National CEO Conclave Odisha a distinguished platform for showcasing Odisha's potential to national and global audiences.
 

“The National CEO Conclave is a visionary initiative that brings together government, industry and thought leaders to collectively shape the future of Odisha. Such platforms play a vital role in showcasing the state’s immense potential and positioning Odisha as a destination for investment, innovation, tourism and cultural excellence,” said Captain Rahul Bali.
 

During his keynote address, Captain Bali emphasized that Odisha possesses all the ingredients required to emerge as one of Asia’s most compelling tourism destinations. He said, “Odisha is one of India’s greatest untold stories. The state already possesses world-class heritage, spirituality, culture, art, nature and authentic experiences. The opportunity lies in creating greater visibility, stronger storytelling and impactful global positioning.”
 

Drawing on his international experience in filmmaking and destination promotion, Captain Rahul Bali highlighted how cinema has become one of the world's most effective tools for tourism marketing. Citing global examples and his landmark Indo-Vietnam feature film Love in Vietnam, he explained how films, festivals and the creative economy—including media, arts and cultural experiences—can boost tourism, attract investment, generate employment and strengthen a destination's global brand. “Culture is no longer merely a heritage asset to be preserved. It is economic capital that can create jobs, generate tourism revenues, attract investment and build a strong global identity.”
 

Captain Rahul Bali further advocated the need to position Odisha as a preferred destination for domestic and international film productions by promoting filmmaker-friendly policies, streamlined permissions and stronger engagement with the global film industry.
 

He proposed a long-term vision that includes a Global Film Odisha Mission, an internationally recognized Odisha International Film Festival, enhanced destination branding initiatives under an Experience Odisha Campaign and a greater integration of culture, tourism and creative industries into the state’s economic development strategy.
 

His keynote received an enthusiastic response from visionary business leaders, policymakers and delegates who appreciated the practical roadmap presented by him for leveraging Odisha’s cultural and tourism strengths as engines of economic transformation around the core theme of "Viksit Odisha 2030" and nation-building.
 

Meeting with Chief Secretary of Odisha

Following his keynote address, Captain Rahul Bali held a meaningful interaction with the Chief Secretary of Odisha, Ms. Anu Garg, IAS, in the presence of the Honourable Consul General of India in Auckland, New Zealand, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi.
 

During the interaction, Captain Rahul Bali shared his vision of positioning Odisha as a premier destination for domestic and international film productions, highlighting the role of cinema in promoting tourism and destination branding. He discussed showcasing Odisha's rich heritage, culture and natural beauty through films and expressed his interest in exploring the state as a location for one of his forthcoming film projects in collaboration with the film industry.
 

Ms. Anu Garg appreciated the potential of film-led destination promotion and welcomed the exchange of ideas on how the creative industries can contribute to tourism development, investment attraction and economic growth. The discussion reflected a shared interest in exploring opportunities that could further strengthen Odisha’s positioning as an attractive destination for filmmaking, tourism and cultural engagement.
 

The presence of Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Honourable Consul General of India in Auckland, added an international perspective to the discussions and underscored the growing importance of cultural diplomacy, tourism promotion and creative collaborations in strengthening India’s global outreach.
 

A Vision for Odisha’s Global Future

Concluding his address, Captain Rahul Bali expressed confidence that Odisha is uniquely positioned to emerge as one of India’s leading destinations for tourism, culture, film production and investment.
 

“Tourism is not built by monuments alone. It is built through stories, experiences, festivals, films and emotional connections. Odisha has all the ingredients necessary to become a globally admired destination. With visionary leadership, strategic collaboration and effective storytelling, the state can create a powerful model of sustainable and inclusive growth,” said Bali.
 

The keynote and subsequent discussions reinforced the growing recognition of culture, tourism and creative industries as important pillars of economic development and highlighted the significant opportunities that lie ahead for Odisha in the years to come.
 

About Captain Rahul Bali

Captain Rahul Bali is an Indian Army Veteran, Film Producer, Entrepreneur, Festival Curator and Cultural Diplomat. He is the Producer of Love in Vietnam and the upcoming international feature film SILAA, and has played a significant role in strengthening cultural, tourism and economic ties between India and several countries through cinema, festivals and international collaborations.

An Achievement That Reflects Patients’ Trust

Dr. Navnit Haror, a gold medalist dermatologist and international hair transplant surgeon, and Dr. Vineeta Pathak, Chief Aesthetician and hair transplant surgeon, have been a driving force behind making Dr. Haror’s Wellness one of the most popular hair transplant clinics in India. This landmark of 20,000 procedures reflects its commitment to excellence in surgical hair restoration. 

Dr. Navnit Haror, founder of Dr. Haror’s Wellness, said, “Performing over 20,000 successful hair transplant surgeries is really a proud moment for us and our team. For us, this is not just a number; it reflects the belief of thousands of patients who trusted us for something which is very personal to them. It also shows our hard work, dedication, and commitment to providing patients with safe, natural, and long-lasting hair restoration solutions. This achievement will inspire us to do even better in the coming time.”

Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Vineeta Pathak, co-founder of Dr. Haror’s Wellness, added, “This accomplishment is a testament to the faith our patients place in us, encouraging us to carry on providing world-class patient care, safety, and surgical precision to help more individuals regain their lost hair and confidence.”

Trusted by Patients Across the World

Over the years, Dr. Haror’s Wellness has built its reputation across a diverse range of patients, from Bollywood celebrities to famous public figures as well as international patients from countries such as the USA, the UK, Australia, the UAE, Canada, and other European and American countries. The clinic had the chance to treat hair loss problems of various Hindi film actors like Ashmit Patel, Pradeep Ram Singh Rawat, Aman Verma, Sudesh Berry, etc. The availability of experienced and skilled hair transplant surgeons, advanced techniques, US-FDA-approved surgical equipment, international surgical guidelines, and expert care make the clinic one of the most sought-after destinations for hair transplant in Delhi, India

Advanced Techniques and Customized Planning

Advanced techniques and tailored treatment planning have been the main factors in this success. “You can’t have a one-size-fits-all when it comes to hair loss; that’s why we create a hair loss treatment plan that is unique to each patient’s hair loss problem so they can get natural, permanent results,” says Dr. Haror. Dr. Haror’s Wellness team of experienced hair transplant surgeons, headed by Dr. Navnit Haror and Dr. Vineeta Pathak, specializes in different hair transplant techniques such as FUE, Sapphire FUE, DHT, and URHT that are minimally invasive, without visible scarring, and deliver natural and long-lasting results. 

As the demand for high-quality hair transplant procedures is rising, Dr. Haror’s Wellness is looking to tap into this evolving sector with a wider presence in the national and international markets. The clinic wants to strengthen its position with investment in innovation & research in the hair restoration sector and training & knowledge sharing. Riding high on its latest achievement, the clinic is looking forward to breaking and setting more new records in the coming years.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

Aster DM Quality Care (Combined Proforma) Performance for Q1 FY27 

• Revenue for Q1 FY27 grew by 20% YoY to INR 2,597 Cr

• Operating EBITDA grew by 30% YoY to INR 576 Cr; (excl. Kasargod up by 31% Cr).

• Operating EBITDA margin at 22.2%, increased by 170bps YoY 

• Excl. Kasargod Op. EBITDA margin stood at 22.4%, increased by 190bps YoY 

• Kasargod Hospital achieved Monthly EBITDA break-even within 9th month of operations 

• ROCE stood at 22.9%, increased by 246 bps YoY

• The merger became effective on July 1, 2026

Dr. Azad Moopen, Executive Chairman, Aster DM Quality Care

Commenting on the merger, Dr. Azad Moopen, Executive Chairman, said, “The coming together of Aster DM Quality Care marks a defining milestone in our nearly four-decade journey of building world-class healthcare institutions. We aspire to create one of India’s leading integrated healthcare platforms, bringing together Aster, CARE, KIMS India, and Evercare into a unified network with over 10,800 beds across 28 cities, positioning Aster Quality Care among the top three hospital chains in India. Over the coming years, we expect to expand this network to more than 15,000 beds."

Varun Khanna - Group Managing Director & CEO, Aster DM Quality Care

As we embark on this new chapter, our philosophy is simple: greater scale, greater clinical excellence, and greater impact. By combining exceptional medical talent with advanced technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, research, and innovation, we will redefine the future of healthcare delivery.
 

Above all, remains to provide world-class, compassionate, and affordable healthcare, while advancing medical education, research, and innovation. Our purpose is to touch and improve millions of lives across India and beyond - “*We’ll Treat You Well”.

Commenting on the performance for Q1 FY27, Mr. Varun Khanna, Managing Director & Group CEO, said, “The recent merger and formation of Aster DM Quality Care, marks a significant moment for the companies, our patients, our doctors and clinical staff, and for the industry overall. In this new chapter we are committed to keeping our core and value system unchanged, with continued focus on patient care, enabling doctors and hospital operations through technology, and best-in-class clinical outcomes. 

Aster DM Quality Care on a combined proforma basis achieved a revenue of INR 2,597 Cr, a growth of 20% YoY, with an EBITDA Margin expansion of +170 bps at 22.2%, on the back of an operating EBITDA increase of 30% to INR 576 Cr. We had the privilege of serving 2 million people in our OP and IP in Q1 FY27, which is 13% more people than in the previous year. Our focus in the coming quarters is on disciplined execution - enhancing patient care, unlocking the full potential of our combined platform, and driving long-term value through operational excellence.”
 

Aster DM Healthcare Key Highlights for Q1 FY27

• Revenue for Q1 FY27 grew 22% YoY to INR 1,311 Cr

• Operating EBITDA (ex-Kasaragod) grew 30% YoY to INR 279 Cr in Q1 FY27 

• Operating EBITDA Margins (ex-Kasaragod) stood at 21.7% in Q1 FY27 Vs. 20.0% in Q1 FY26 

• Normalised PAT1 (ex-Kasaragod) grew 46% YoY to INR 131 Cr in Q1 FY27

• ARPP IP rose 10% YoY to INR 1,30,352 in Q1 FY27

• Total patient volume grew by 16% YoY 

• Matured hospitals saw a revenue growth of 19% YoY in Q1 FY27

• Emerging hospitals revenue grew by 95% YoY in Q1FY27

Quality Care Key Highlights for Q1 FY27

• Revenue for Q1 FY27 grew 19% YoY to INR 1,287 Cr

• Operating EBITDA grew 32% YoY to INR 299 Cr in Q1 FY27 

• Operating EBITDA Margins stood at 23.2% in Q1 FY27 Vs. 21.1% in Q1 FY26

• ARPP IP rose 9% YoY to INR 1,44,064 in Q1 FY27

• Total patient volume grew by 10% YoY 

• Matured hospital registered revenue growth of 18% YoY in Q1 FY27

• Emerging units noted revenue growth of 47% YoY in Q1 FY27

About Aster DM Quality Care
Aster DM Quality Care Limited is one of India’s leading integrated healthcare providers, formed through the merger of Aster DM Healthcare Limited and Quality Care India Limited. The merged entity brings together four leading healthcare brands - Aster DM Healthcare, CARE Hospitals, Evercare and KIMSHEALTH, creating a scaled and diversified healthcare platform with a network of 39 hospitals across 28 cities and over 10,890 beds. With a strong presence across South and Central India, the merged entity will deliver comprehensive healthcare services spanning primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary care, supported by centers of excellence across key specialties including oncology, cardiac sciences, neurosciences, gastro sciences, orthopedics, nephrology, organ transplantation, mother and child care, and critical care.For more information about us, please visit www.asterqualitycare.com 
 

Disclaimer
Certain statements in this document that are not historical facts are forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties like government actions, local, political or economic developments, technological risks, and many other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statements. Aster DM Quality Care Limited will not be in any way responsible for any action taken based on such statements and undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. Quality Care numbers are indicative and subject to statutory audit adjustments. Proforma numbers for merger entity are also subject to finalization and audit of the merged accounts. Actual amounts, losses or impact on net profit could materially differ from those that have been estimated. In addition, other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated include harmonization of accounting policies and practices.

Saya Group unveils its Great Grand Property Carnival with exclusive festive offers on Saya Gold Avenue, Saya Piazza and Saya South X

The carnival brings together premium and limited inventory across Saya Gold Avenue in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad, Saya South X in Greater Noida West, and Saya Piazza at Jaypee Wish Town, Noida, providing buyers and investors an opportunity to own ready-to-move-in homes as well as high-potential commercial assets at special carnival prices.

The Great Grand Property Carnival has been curated to celebrate the festive season while enabling customers to make informed real estate investments backed by attractive offers and value-added benefits. During the carnival, customers will receive assured gifts on every booking, special festive pricing, exclusive carnival benefits, attractive booking schemes on selected inventory, along with surprise rewards and giveaways throughout the campaign.

The commercial offerings are expected to generate significant interest from investors. Pre-leased commercial investment opportunities with assured rental income are available from approximately Rs 17.5 lakh, offering an affordable entry point into premium commercial real estate.

Investors can also own retail spaces within some of NCR's most premium retail destinations, including food courts designed to cater to a large residential and office catchment. With leading national and international brands already committed and a vibrant retail ecosystem taking shape, these developments are expected to witness strong footfalls and offer attractive long-term appreciation and rental potential.

The carnival showcases premium inventory across three flagship developments:

• Saya Gold Avenue, Indirapuram – Ready-to-move-in luxury residences with premium amenities and one of the tallest residential towers on NH-24.

• Saya South X, Greater Noida West – A mixed-use commercial destination featuring premium retail shops, food courts, restaurants, entertainment zones, business suites, and pre-leased commercial investment opportunities.

• Saya Piazza, Jaypee Wish Town, Noida – A high-street retail destination strategically located within one of Noida's largest integrated townships, offering retail and commercial investment options.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikas Bhasin, Managing Director, Saya Group, said: “Real estate continues to be one of the most preferred asset classes for wealth creation, and festive periods have traditionally been considered an auspicious time to invest in property. Through the 'Great Grand Property Carnival', we aim to provide genuine value to both homebuyers and investors by bringing together our finest residential and commercial offerings under one platform with exclusive festive benefits. Whether someone is looking for a ready-to-move-in luxury home or a commercial investment with rental income and long-term appreciation potential, this carnival offers compelling opportunities across every budget. We expect an encouraging response from buyers looking to make the most of the festive offers available for a limited period.”

Saya Group has established a strong presence in NCR with developments that combine quality construction, timely delivery, strategic locations, and modern amenities. The company believes the Great Grand Property Carnival will enable both end-users and investors to capitalise on attractive pricing, exclusive schemes, and premium real estate opportunities across its marquee projects.

The Great Grand Property Carnival will be held for a limited period, with all offers applicable on selected inventory and subject to terms and conditions.

About Saya Group

Established over 25 years ago, Saya Group has evolved from developing low-rise floors and villas to creating landmark high-rise residences and premium commercial destinations. The company’s extensive portfolio spans 4.99 lakh sq. m. of delivered and ongoing residential and commercial developments.

Its signature residential projects—Desire Residency, Saya Zenith, Saya Zion, and Saya Gold Avenue—are home to over 4,000 families. On the commercial front, Saya Piazza (Noida) and Saya SouthX (Greater Noida West) collectively cover 2.20 lakh sq. m., attracting top retail, dining, and entertainment brands. Occupancy Certificate (OC) applications for both have already been submitted.

With a debt-free growth outlook, strong brand equity, and multiple launches planned across the NCR, Saya Group is entering an exciting new phase—poised to further strengthen its leadership in the luxury and lifestyle real estate segment.

Tata Gluco+ joins the 135th Durand Cup as Official Beverage Partner, energising players, officials and fans at one of India's oldest football tournament

As part of the association, Tata Gluco+ will keep players, officials and fans refreshed throughout the tournament while engaging with football-loving communities across the country. The partnership reflects the brand's commitment to connecting with consumers through shared experiences and the growing popularity of football in India.

A popular glucose based instant energy drink from Tata Consumer Products Limited, Tata Gluco+ is available in refreshing flavours including Orangy Burst, Lemony Zing and Lychee Zap. Through the Durand Cup, the brand strengthens its presence across football-loving markets, from the passionate fan bases of West Bengal and the Northeast to emerging football hubs across the country.

The 135th Durand Cup promises another exciting season of football, featuring top clubs, emerging talent and passionate fan engagement across multiple host cities. As Asia's oldest football tournament and one of India's most celebrated sporting events, the Durand Cup has played a defining role in shaping Indian football since 1888.

The 2026 edition features 24 teams, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, Jamshedpur FC, Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC, alongside clubs from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, Services and international teams. Hosted across multiple cities, the tournament continues to bring top-tier football closer to fans while strengthening India's football ecosystem.

By partnering with the 135th Durand Cup, Tata Gluco+ continues to strengthen its connect with football-loving communities across India, bringing refreshing energy to fans through one of the nation's most enduring football legacies.

About Tata Consumer Products Limited

Tata Consumer Products Limited is a focused consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests of the Tata Group under one umbrella. The Company’s portfolio of products includes tea, coffee, water, RTD, salt, pulses, spices, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat offerings, breakfast cereals, snacks and mini meals. Its key beverage brands include Tata Tea, Tetley, Organic India, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Tata Coffee Grand, Himalayan Natural Mineral Water, Tata Copper+ and Tata Gluco+. Its foods portfolio includes brands such as Tata Salt, Tata Sampann, Tata Soulfull, Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones. In India, Tata Consumer Products has a reach of 290 million households, giving it an unparalleled ability to leverage the Tata brand in consumer products. The Company has a consolidated annual turnover of ~Rs. 20,290 crores with operations in India and International markets.

Success in today’s payment landscape requires issuers to enhance both the customer experience and the efficiency of their internal operations. 

For cardholders, payment experiences are expected to be instant, seamless, and connected across both physical and digital channels. Customers increasingly demand faster card delivery, premium personalization, instant activation, real-time card controls, instant digital issuance, push provisioning to mobile wallets, and secure frictionless payments—all directly accessible through their banking applications.

For issuers, these expectations require modern infrastructure that supports real-time issuance, production, tracking, digitization capabilities, and API-driven issuance operations to support stock and forecast management. Banks and fintechs require standardized APIs to support instant issuance and digital use cases and simplify integration by minimizing connections to third-party platforms and mobile apps.

Personalization as a Service: The digital backbone of modern payment card journeys
Since March 2025, IST has rolled out a new suite of APIs that modernize how issuers, IST personalization centers, and delivery systems interact. These APIs enable every step of the card issuance process—from order to delivery—to be tracked in near real-time. Card personalization APIs redefine what’s possible by converting a static production step into a dynamic, connected service. This shift creates the digital backbone that powers real-time issuance, automated workflows, and an entire ecosystem of real-time digital services throughout the payment credential lifecycle.

“The shift to API-based personalization is about unlocking new value potential for our customers. It unlocks operations from batch constraints, real-time innovation for customer experience teams, and frees up workflows from manual silos. Issuers don’t just become more efficient; they become more agile, more responsive, and better equipped to deliver the personalized experiences customers now expect. That’s the real power of this transformation,” said Elyette Roux, EVP Payment Services, IST.

A comprehensive API suite covering the full card lifecycle
Building on its personalization capabilities, IST is expanding its offering with a new suite of APIs that spans from physical card personalization to full digitalization services and beyond. These modular building blocks enable issuers to easily access, combine, and scale a comprehensive set of payment capabilities, accelerating innovation while reducing integration and operational complexity.

Designed to connect seamlessly with issuer back-end systems (including Card Management Systems and Authorization Servers) as well as mobile applications, the IST APIs are organized into five core service families aligned with the card lifecycle.

• Issuance APIs: Enables issuers to orchestrate and automate the complete card issuance lifecycle covering the creation, personalization, provisioning, and delivery of physical and digital payment cards. For physical cards, these APIs support card pulls, inventory management, PIN/CVV generation etc.

• Lifecycle APIs: Allow issuers to manage the full physical and digital card lifecycle in real-time, including production and shipment status updates, PIN services, renewals, replacements, and tokens and wallet management. Issuers can also securely process and orchestrate proximity and remote digital payment transactions and card services in real-time, including wallet interactions, workflow authorizations, tokenized payment transactions, and fraud controls.

• Authentication APIs: Enables strong and secure end-user FIDO-based authentication, especially in the context of online operations and agent-initiated payments.

• Customer Experience APIs and Mobile SDKs: Exposes mobile-first card services designed to enhance cardholder experiences directly within banking applications, including card art selection, card delivery tracking, access to digital inserts, card activation, secure display of card details and PIN, virtual card generation, push provisioning to mobile wallets, mobile authentication, and tap-to-pay enablement.

• Payment Cryptography & Key Management APIs: Enables banks to secure their payment card issuance infrastructure with our HSM-as-a-Service, managing cryptographic keys, encryption, and transaction signing. Issuers can also access the IST test environment to explore the quantum-ready cryptographic library and build future-proof applications.

With more than 700 million physical payment products issued in 2025, IST combines proven expertise in large-scale physical card issuance with advanced digital payment capabilities. As a major independent tokenization provider, the company has now provisioned more than 500 million payment tokens across a wide variety of digital payment use cases. Built on PCI-certified, resilient, secure, and scalable SaaS platforms, IST’s API-driven services enable issuers to accelerate innovation while benefiting from a flexible business model and modular approach, allowing issuers to select and consume only the services they need.

Rizwan Sajan announces Danube Properties' latest initiative, offering 0% down payment and 2% monthly instalments at Bayz 101 and Bayz 102

Rising over 100 storeys, the Bayz by Danube towers are set to become iconic additions to Dubai's skyline. The developments feature more than 50 world-class lifestyle amenities, a rooftop helipad, and premium residences designed for contemporary urban living. Strategically located in the heart of Business Bay, the towers are just two minutes from Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa, and within walking distance of the Business Bay Metro Station, offering residents seamless connectivity across the city.

Commenting on this latest offering, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said, "Our objective has always been to make homeownership more accessible while creating long-term value for our customers. With zero down payment and affordable monthly instalments of just 2%, Bayz by Danube offers buyers an opportunity to own a premium home in one of Dubai's most desirable neighbourhoods. Business Bay continues to be a high-growth destination, offering an exceptional lifestyle, excellent connectivity, and strong investment potential."

As demand for centrally located homes continues to rise, properties in Business Bay have consistently demonstrated strong capital appreciation and some of Dubai's highest rental yields, making Bayz by Danube an attractive proposition for both end-users and investors.

Danube Properties continues to strengthen Dubai's position as one of the world's leading real estate investment destinations by delivering high-quality developments backed by innovative payment plans. The emirate's visionary leadership, sustained economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and business-friendly environment continue to attract investors from around the world.

About Danube Properties
Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is one of the UAE's leading private real estate developers. Renowned for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company develops fully furnished homes with more than 40 lifestyle amenities and has built a strong reputation for quality construction and timely delivery.

Bisleri Brings the Magic of Spider-Man: Brand New Day to Consumers with Limited-Edition Packs and Merchandise

Timed perfectly with the film's theatrical release, the exclusive range transforms everyday hydration into a collectible experience. 'The Spider-Man: Brand New Day' association will feature across Bisleri's 250ml, 500ml, and 1-litre water bottles.

Commenting on the launch, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri International, said, "We are thrilled to associate with 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day,' the next chapter of one of the biggest and most iconic global movie franchises, and a significant part of today's global pop culture. The association will be brought to life through our limited-edition bottles, which will be an exciting collectible for our consumer base."

The launch will be supported by a high-octane, 360-degree marketing campaign spanning digital engagement and vibrant in-store retail visibility. Taking the excitement directly to the streets, a spectacularly branded Spider-Man x Bisleri Truck will traverse Mumbai, generating massive out-of-home (OOH) buzz and creating high-impact visibility in the lead-up to the film's release.

The limited-edition water bottles are now available across general and modern trade outlets pan-India.  

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd 

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water. 

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. 

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com. 

Greaves Cotton posts a steady start to FY27, backed by resilient execution and its GREAVES.NEXT strategy

Greaves Cotton Limited, one of India's leading diversified engineering companies, announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, delivering a steady performance across its diversified businesses. During the quarter, the Company continued to execute its Greaves.Next strategy by strengthening its core businesses, expanding its international footprint and making strategic investments to support future growth. These actions reflect Greaves’ commitment to prudent capital allocation, portfolio diversification and building a globally relevant engineering enterprise positioned for sustainable long-term value creation.

Financial Performance
Consolidated

• Revenue for Q1 FY27 stood at INR 974 crore, up 31 percent YoY. 

• EBITDA stood at INR 56 crore. 

• Operating PBT stood at INR 27 crore. 

Standalone

• Revenue for Q1 FY27 stood at INR 629 crore, up 16 percent YoY. 

• EBITDA stood at INR 71 crore. 

• Operating PBT stood at INR 67 crore. 

Parag Satpute, MD & Group CEO, Greaves Cotton Limited, said, "We have begun FY27 on a strong note, delivering a solid performance on the back of disciplined execution across our businesses, while strengthening our strategic foundations under Greaves.Next. During the quarter, we expanded our international footprint with the establishment of a subsidiary in Dubai, UAE, enhanced our manufacturing capabilities through advanced automation, and continued to grow across our domestic and international businesses despite commodity price and supply chain pressures. We also reaffirmed our commitment to future-ready businesses through investments in Greaves Electric Mobility and Greaves Finance. Supported by a strong balance sheet, we are well positioned to drive organic growth, invest in our portfolio companies, and capitalise on emerging growth opportunities. Demand across segments remains encouraging and we remain focused on executing our strategy with discipline to build a stronger, more future-ready Greaves." 

Business Highlights
Energy Solutions continued its growth momentum during the quarter, delivering revenue growth of 21 percent YoY, supported by healthy demand across infrastructure, manufacturing and industrial applications. Domestic sales of the Medium Horsepower (MHP) genset portfolio grew by 32 percent on a YoY basis, and we commissioned a BESS pilot towards strengthening our integrated solutions portfolio.

The Mobility Solutions business delivered 18 percent year-on-year revenue growth, supported by strong performance across key segments. Automotive engines recorded robust growth of 36 percentYoY, while the Engineered Components businesses grew 14 percent YoY, driven by healthy domestic demand and steady export momentum. Demand for Euro V+ compliant engines remained encouraging in export markets. The Engineered Components domestic business also secured new orders from large OEMs such as Caterpillar UK and TAFE.

Industrial Solutions witnessed sustained demand across defence, marine and agriculture applications, strengthening engagement with OEM customers across specialised industrial applications.

Supported by strong market execution, the international business continued to contribute 13 percent to core business revenue. The Company incorporated Greaves International Trading FZE in Dubai, UAE establishing a regional hub to strengthen customer engagement and distribution capabilities across the Middle East and Africa.

Greaves Electric Mobility business strengthened its market position through sustained network expansion and portfolio enhancements. In electric two-wheelers, VAHAN volumes more than doubled, growing 101 percent year-on-year in Q1 FY27, while market share increased from 4.3 percent in FY26 to 5.6 percent in June ‘26. In three-wheelers, L5 VAHAN volumes grew 39 percent year-on-year, with electric L5 volumes nearly doubling, reflecting strong demand and continued market penetration across key segments. The Company has informed that its INR 530 Crore rights issue has been fully subscribed with its Board approving the allotment of equity shares to all eligible shareholders. Greaves Cotton Limited has subscribed to its full entitlement of approximately INR 331 Crore, and our shareholding in GEML remains unchanged at 62.48 percent.

Greaves Finance continued its growth trajectory with Assets Under Management crossing INR 560 crore, an increase from INR521 crore in Mar’26; and expanded its reach by 12 more locations. During the quarter, Greaves Cotton subscribed to the rights issue of INR 50 crore to support the company's next phase of growth.

Outlook
The Company remains focused on strengthening execution across its core businesses while continuing to invest in technology, international expansion and future-ready opportunities under the Greaves.Next strategy.

Supported by a strong balance sheet, disciplined capital allocation and a diversified engineering portfolio, Greaves Cotton remains well positioned to deliver sustainable long-term growth while navigating an evolving macroeconomic environment. The Company will continue to focus on operational excellence, innovation and customer-centric solutions to create long-term value for all its stakeholders.

Born as Suman Mishra, popularly known by her stage name Jugnu Ishiqui, she has built a multifaceted career as an actress, model, dancer and live performer. Over the years, Jugnu has appeared in films including Crazy Cukkad Family, Ammaa Ki Boli, A Game Called Relationship and Bongu, while also featuring in promotional songs and music projects. Apart from acting, she has continued to establish herself as a global performer, travelling internationally with stage shows and musical performances, reflecting her passion for entertainment across multiple creative mediums.

Her husband, Ryan Balchand, is a distinguished technology entrepreneur, software architect, and the Founder & CEO of 3ANGLE Corp, a New York-based technology company specializing in artificial intelligence, cloud platforms, enterprise software, mobile applications and digital transformation. Since establishing the company in 2012, Ryan has led the development of hundreds of technology solutions for startups, Fortune 500 companies and rapidly growing businesses, earning recognition for combining cutting-edge innovation with practical business strategy. Under Ryan's leadership, 3ANGLE Corp has evolved into an AI-driven technology company with proprietary platforms including InventaCloud.ai, delivering intelligent solutions that help businesses automate workflows, improve operational efficiency and accelerate digital transformation. His team has worked with several globally recognized brands and organizations, including Nutrafol, Trek Bikes, Catalyx.ai, Frank & Eileen, State Farm and Pantone, among others, across industries such as healthcare, retail, manufacturing, e-commerce and enterprise technology.

"Life has a beautiful way of bringing two souls together when the time is right. Ryan and I come from two very different worlds, yet we are united by the same values of love, respect and ambition. This is the beginning of our forever, and my heart is filled with gratitude for everyone who has been a part of our journey," says Jugnu.

Both Jugnu and Ryan will do a small intimate ceremony soon in India on August 6, 2026, on their 1-year anniversary.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

Sameer Gupta, Director, Shikhar Realty Services Pvt. Ltd., with investors at the ‘Gateway to Office’ initiative

The initiative aimed to create greater awareness about the role a well-located and thoughtfully planned office space plays in business growth, brand perception, employee productivity and client confidence. Throughout the event, visitors explored a range of commercial office options and interacted with experienced real estate consultants to better understand how different workspace solutions can support businesses at various stages of expansion.

Office options presented during the event ranged from compact suites for startups to larger configurable office spaces for established organisations. Visitors were introduced to spaces offering modern business amenities, including conference facilities, dedicated parking, 24/7 security, furnished and shell options, flexible layouts and high-speed internet connectivity.

Speaking about the initiative, Sameer Gupta, Director, Shikhar Realty Services Pvt. Ltd., said, “Selecting an office is no longer just a real estate decision—it is a business decision. A company’s workplace reflects its identity and ambitions. Through Gateway to Office, our objective was to help business owners understand the long-term value of choosing the right commercial address while providing transparent guidance throughout the property selection process.”

The event also highlighted the increasing interest in organised commercial office spaces across Faridabad as businesses continue to look for strategically connected locations that support long-term operations and future expansion. Along with showcasing office spaces, the company offered one-on-one consultations, property shortlisting, site visit assistance and transaction guidance to help visitors make informed decisions.

Established in 2005, Shikhar Realty Services has been assisting homebuyers, investors and businesses with residential and commercial real estate across Faridabad and the NCR region. Through its advisory-driven approach, the company provides verified property options, market insights and end-to-end support throughout the buying process.

As part of the Gateway to Office initiative, interested businesses can schedule consultations, explore suitable commercial office options and arrange guided site visits with the company’s advisory team. The objective is to simplify the commercial property selection process while helping organisations identify office spaces that align with their operational and growth requirements.

Shikhar Realty Services Pvt. Ltd. is a Faridabad-based real estate advisory company established in 2005. The company specialises in residential and commercial property consulting across Faridabad and the National Capital Region, offering professional guidance, verified property solutions and end-to-end transaction support for homebuyers, investors and businesses.

There is a particular kind of exhaustion that comes with searching for answers after a leukaemia diagnosis. You read everything. You ask everyone. You look up treatments that keep appearing in articles and wonder whether they are real, whether they are available, whether they are something your family could actually reach.

For a long time, the honest answer for many Indian families was no. The most advanced options sat behind flights, visas, foreign hospital admissions, and costs that put them out of reach for all but a small number of people. That is beginning to change.

Why Some Leukaemia Cases Are Harder to Treat

Most patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia begin treatment on a standard chemotherapy protocol and for many, that protocol works. But leukaemia does not always follow the expected path. Some patients relapse. Some stop responding to the drugs that once worked. For those families, the question of what is still possible becomes the only one that matters and until recently, the answers available in India were limited.

The Treatment That Is Changing the Odds

Over the past two years, a small number of Indian centres have begun offering CAR-T cell therapy for leukaemia, a treatment that was largely unavailable in the country before that.

The way it works is straightforward to explain, even if the science behind it is not. The patient's own immune cells are collected, reprogrammed to find and attack the leukaemia cells that chemotherapy could not reach and returned to the body. The immune system then does what it was never able to do before. In patients with relapsed B-cell leukaemia, this approach has produced remission in 80 to 90 percent of cases, a number that means everything to families who had been told there was nothing left to try.

India now has its own approved product for this therapy. India now has an approved indigenous CD19 CAR T-cell therapy , making this advanced treatment more accessible for eligible patients within the country.

SunAct Cancer is among the handful of Indian centres currently equipped to administer it.

What the Treatment Journey Looks Like

The process spans several weeks. Cells are collected in a short-stay procedure that most patients find far less daunting than they expected. Those cells are then engineered over two to four weeks in a lab. When they are ready, the patient goes through a short course of conditioning treatment before the infusion itself, which takes only a few hours. After that, the medical team monitors the patient closely for about two weeks as the immune response builds.

What happens after discharge matters as much as what happens during treatment. Check-ins, blood tests, and bone marrow assessments typically continue for years, this is not a therapy where a family is handed a discharge summary and left to manage the rest on their own.

Understanding the Side Effects

Centres delivering this therapy are upfront with families about what to expect. The main side effects are well documented and are watched for closely from the moment of infusion. Most patients manage them without serious complications when the treating team has handled these responses before, which is precisely why the therapy is currently offered at only a small number of specialised centres rather than every hospital.

What Families Should Look for in a Treatment Centre

Because CAR-T therapy is still available at only a handful of hospitals in India, the details of where it is delivered matter almost as much as the therapy itself. A few things consistently come up when families and doctors discuss what makes a difference:

• Continuity of care. The specialists who assess a patient are ideally the same ones who treat them through every stage, rather than passing the case between departments.
• Integrated facilities. CAR-T therapy, bone marrow transplantation and other blood cancer treatments are best delivered under one roof, so families are not moving between hospitals for different parts of the same treatment plan.
• Multidisciplinary approach. CAR-T therapy involves more than a single specialist. A coordinated team of   doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals works together to support patients from evaluation and treatment through recovery and long-term follow-up.
• Purpose-built infrastructure. Sterile environments and specialised isolation rooms are not something a general hospital ward can simply add on, they need to be designed for this kind of work from the outset.
• Long-term follow-up. Because outcomes are monitored for years after treatment, centres with a structured follow-up programme tend to catch complications earlier.

Why This Matters for Indian Families

Two years ago, a family considering CAR-T therapy for leukaemia had little choice but to look abroad. That is no longer true. The expertise now exists within India, the infrastructure to deliver it safely has been built, and the cost is a fraction of what international treatment would have required without the added burden of travel, visas, and unfamiliar hospital systems during an already difficult time.

The Families Who Come to SunAct

They come from Mumbai and from cities much further away. Some come after months of searching. Some come because another doctor referred them. Some come because someone they knew went through treatment here and told them about it.

What they find is a centre where the doctors know their names, where the conversations are honest, and where the treatment available is genuinely among the best in the world. Not among the best in India. Among the best in the world, delivered here in Mumbai, by people who built this place because they believed it was possible.

To learn more about acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, explore the educational resources in our Information Centre:

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 Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

Morepen Q1FY27 Results Highlights

Key Q1’FY27 Highlights

• Revenue: Rs. 575.31 Cr, up 34% YoY 

• EBITDA: Rs. 87.72 Cr, up 207% YoY 

• EBITDA Margin: 15.25%, improved from 6.65% in Q1 FY26 

• PAT: Rs. 56.35 Cr, up 394% YoY 

• Export Revenue: up 111% YoY 

• API Growth:31%; API exports up 42% 

• Medical Devices Growth: 19% 

• CDMO order: Rs. 825 Cr CDMO mandate enters full scale commercialization phase 

• CDMO dispatches: Rs. 58 Cr commercial supply already completed in Q1’FY27

• Regulatory:Fourth consecutive USFDA inspection with Nil Form 483 observation 

The first quarter also marked a major strategic milestone as Morepen’s previously announced Rs. 825 Cr CDMO mandate entered full scale commercialization phase, with Rs. 58 Cr worth of commercial CDMO dispatches already completed during the quarter. This marks the commercial validation of the Company’s Morepen 2.0 strategy, focused on moving from traditional commodity APIs toward innovation-led manufacturing, long-duration CDMO partnerships, recurring customer programs and a scalable operating platform.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Sushil Suri, Chairman & Managing Director, Morepen Laboratories Limited, said, “Q1 FY27 marks an important validation of Morepen’s transformation journey. The Company has delivered its highest-ever quarterly revenue, strong profitability improvement and meaningful operating leverage. More importantly, our Rs. 825 Cr CDMO mandate has now entered full scale commercial execution, reinforcing our shift from a transaction-led API business to a more focused, manufacturing-led platform built around long-duration global partnerships.”

“With API profitability recovering, exports growing strongly and Medical Devices continuing to scale as a second growth engine, Morepen is entering the next phase with greater confidence. Our focus remains on disciplined execution, capacity expansion, customer diversification and building deeper scientific and compliance capabilities to create a stronger, more predictable and globally relevant Morepen.”

Morepen’s API business recorded 31% growth, supported by a healthy recovery in the base business, improved product mix, customer prioritisation and better operating discipline. API exports grew 42%, reflecting stronger traction in global markets. The Company believes that a stronger API base will support the transition toward a higher-quality CDMO platform.

The Company’s regulatory and quality track record continues to support its global manufacturing ambitions. Morepen has completed four consecutive USFDA inspections with Nil Form 483 observations, strengthening its credibility with global pharmaceutical customers and supporting long-term CDMO partnerships.

To support larger global CDMO opportunities, Morepen is expanding its manufacturing capacity in phases. The Company’s capacity roadmap envisages expansion upto 1,200 KL by FY30.

Morepen is also building the next phase of its CDMO-led growth around four strategic pillars: capacity augmentation, global partnerships, capability scale-up and global compliance. The company’s technology roadmap includes deeper capabilities in small molecules, process chemistry, complex chemistry, advanced intermediates, process intensification, high-potency manufacturing, specialty APIs, difficult-to-make molecules and, over time, peptides, oligos and new modalities.

The Medical Devices business continued to provide a second scalable growth engine, recording 19% growth during the quarter. The platform is focused on chronic-care categories including blood glucose meters, blood pressure monitors, consumables and future CGM / premium device opportunities. The business has a reported installed base of 20 million blood glucose meters and annual strip scale of 500 million strips, supporting recurring consumables revenue.

Looking ahead, Morepen’s near-term priorities include commercial CDMO supplies, API profitability recovery and capacity utilisation. Over the medium term, the Company will focus on capacity augmentation, new customer opportunities and operating leverage. Long term, Morepen aims to build an innovation-led manufacturing platform anchored in global partnerships and sustainable value creation.

About Morepen Laboratories Limited
Morepen Laboratories Limited is a vertically integrated pharmaceutical and healthcare company with over four decades of API manufacturing experience, globally approved facilities and exports across more than 90 countries. The Company has established leadership positions across key APIs, supported by regulated-market compliant manufacturing infrastructure and a strong global quality track record.

Morepen is progressively expanding from a traditional API business into an innovation-led manufacturing platform focused on long-duration supply contracts, CDMO partnerships, process scale-up, regulated-market customer programs and global pharmaceutical partnerships.

The Company is also developing its Medical Devices business as a scalable chronic-care healthcare platform across blood glucose monitoring, blood pressure monitoring, recurring consumables, CGM opportunities and connected health.

Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations, assumptions and estimates relating to the Company’s business strategy, growth plans, manufacturing expansion, CDMO opportunities, capacity augmentation, future financial performance, regulatory developments and market opportunities. Actual results may differ materially due to risks, uncertainties and factors beyond the Company’s control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable law.

boltt x Flipkart Freedom Sale 2026

Leveraging Flipkart's nationwide reach through this title sponsorship, boltt aims to establish itself as a trusted homegrown smartphone brand. Through the association, the brand will engage with millions of consumers across metros as well as Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, strengthening its visibility and reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Indian smartphone market.

Backed by the consumer insights, technology expertise, and scale built through Fire-Boltt's connected ecosystem, boltt represents the group's strategic expansion into the smartphone category. The collaboration with Flipkart forms an integral part of the brand's go-to-market strategy, providing a high-impact platform to build early consumer awareness and long-term brand recall in a highly competitive market.

The Freedom Sale 2026 will commence with early access for Flipkart Plus, Black, and VIP members on 7 August, before opening to all consumers on 8 August, and is expected to continue until 15 August. As the Title Sponsor, boltt will have a prominent presence throughout the sale, further strengthening its visibility during one of the country's most anticipated shopping events.

Speaking on the announcement, Arnav Kishore, Founder & CEO, boltt, said, "Partnering with Flipkart for the Freedom Sale 2026 is a significant milestone for boltt as we begin building our presence in the Indian smartphone market. Flipkart has been instrumental in shaping how millions of consumers discover technology, and this association gives us an opportunity to establish the boltt brand on a platform trusted by consumers across the country. We see this as the beginning of a long-term association that will help us build meaningful consumer connections and support our vision of establishing boltt as a trusted homegrown smartphone brand for India."

The partnership underscores boltt's long-term commitment to the Indian smartphone market while providing a powerful platform to build brand awareness and connect with consumers at scale. More details regarding boltt's smartphone journey will be shared in the coming weeks.

About boltt 
Boltt is a homegrown smartphone brand from the house of Fire-Boltt, built on the trust of over 4 crore users. Created for India’s evolving digital lifestyle, the brand brings together deep consumer insight and a consumer-first approach to design and innovation. BOLTT is focused on delivering dependable, relevant smartphone experiences tailored for modern India.

About Fire-Boltt
Fire-Boltt is India's No. 1 smartwatch brand and one of the country's leading homegrown consumer technology companies. With a growing ecosystem of connected devices and more than 4 crore users, Fire-Boltt is committed to creating innovative technology products that are accessible, relevant, and designed for Indian consumers.

Mr. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar, Chairman; Mr. Arun D. Mavinkurve, Vice Chairman; the Board, Board of Management, MD Mr. Ravinder Singh and senior executives at the Bank's 120th AGM

Chaired by Mr. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar, the Chairman of the Bank; all agenda items and meeting topics set out in the notice to members were transacted.

The Bank also presented its Audited Financials for the year ended March 31, 2026, reporting Total Business of Rs. 43,693 crore, a year-on-year growth of 11.03%. Deposits rose to Rs. 24,956 crore, a 11.51% year-on-year growth from Rs. 22,380 crore in the previous financial year, while Advances increased to Rs. 18,737 crore, a 10.40% year-on-year growth from Rs. 16,973 crore in the previous financial year. The Bank recorded a Net Profit of Rs. 205 crore for the financial year. Asset quality remained resilient with Gross NPA at 2.69% and Net NPA at 0.96%, and the Bank’s capital position strengthened with a Capital Adequacy Ratio (CRAR) of 15.48%.

During the AGM, Mr. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar, Chairman; and Mr. Arun D. Mavinkurve, Vice Chairman of the Bank; felicitated and honoured one of the Bank's most valued customers, Mr. Dinkar Bhavanishankar Burde, in recognition of his remarkable association with the Bank since 1958. A centenarian, Mr. Dinkar Bhavanishankar Burde was celebrated for his unwavering trust and loyalty spanning nearly seven decades, symbolizing the enduring relationships the Bank has built with its customers. The special felicitation served as a tribute to his lifelong association with the Bank and reflected the institution's commitment to recognizing and valuing the trust and support of its longstanding customers.

The financial year saw the Bank focus on digital transformation, reinforce risk management practices, and selectively expand its Branch network, while continuing to prioritise customer service and operational discipline.

“As SVC Bank holds its 120^th AGM this year, our focus remains on building an institution that combines strong governance, financial resilience and customer trust with a clear vision for the future. The progress we have achieved reflects the collective commitment of our Board, Management and Employees, and we will continue to pursue sustainable growth while creating long-term value for our Members and Customers," said Mr. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar, Chairman, SVC Co-operative Bank Ltd.

Looking ahead, SVC Bank plans to deepen its focus on retail and priority sector lending, including MSMEs, affordable housing, and institutional deposits, while further expanding its presence across the country.

About SVC Bank

Set up in 1906, SVC Bank is a 119-year-rich institution that has contributed significantly to the development of the co-operative movement in India for over a century. Today, the Bank is one of the oldest and most recognised names in the country’s co-operative banking space. SVC is a Multi-State Scheduled Co-operative Bank with its presence across 10 States & 1 Union Territory – Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. Total Business of the Bank is at Rs. 43,693 Crores as on March 31, 2026 and Net Profit stands at Rs. 205 Crores. Gross NPA stood at 2.69% while Net NPA stood at 0.96% and the Provisioning Coverage Ratio (PCR) at 65.16%, reflecting the Bank's strong financial fundamentals.

Headquartered in Mumbai, the Bank has a vast network of 203 branches, 220 ATMs and an employee strength of over 2,500. The Bank offers the entire gamut of services across Retail, Corporate and International Banking.

The Bank’s performance and innovation have been recognised through several recent industry awards.

• SVC Bank was honoured with three prestigious awards — Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Multi-State Urban Co-operative Bank and Best CTO/IT Head Of The Year — at the Bharat Ratna Sahakarita Samman Ceremony 2026, conducted at the Bharat Cooperative Banking Summit 2026, on June 6^th, 2026, in Lucknow.

• The Bank was also honoured with the 'Leading Bank Award' in Category Tier IV at the 10^th All India Co-operative Banking Summit & Awards 2026, conducted on May 8^th & 9^th, 2026, in Pune.

• The Bank was awarded Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Cyber Security Initiative and Digital Banking Innovation of the Year at the 3^rd Rashtriya Urban Cooperative Banking Summit & Awards 2026.

• SVC Bank received three distinguished recognitions at IBA's Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations 2024-25, conducted on January 9^th, 2026 in Mumbai: Best Fintech & DPI Adoption (Winner) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category, Best Tech Talent (Winner) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category and Best Technology Bank (Special Mention) in the Co-operative Sector Banks category.

• The Bank was awarded the Leader Award at the 9^th All India UCB Summit & Awards, 2025, the Best HR Transformation and Best Audit Transformation Awards at the FCBA Awards 2025, and the Gold Award for the Bank's Wall Calendar for the Year 2025 & Consolation Award for the Bank's Annual Report F.Y. 2024-25, at the 15^th PRCI Excellence Awards 2025. In addition, earlier honours include the Banco Blue Ribbon 2024 Award for excellence in the Urban Co-operative Bank category.

Other notable mentions:

• The Bank was also felicitated at the Rashtriya Coop Samman Samaroh 2025 with the titles of Best Urban Co-operative Bank, Best Multi-State Urban Co-operative Bank and Best Chairperson of the Year awarded to Shri. Durgesh S. Chandavarkar.

• SVC Bank was recently awarded the prestigious 'Most Innovative CFO' Award at the Silver Feather Awards 2025 - 6^th Edition and ET Now’s “Best Organisations to Work 2025”. These accolades reflect the Bank’s leadership in co-operative banking, commitment to technology and people, and its role in advancing financial inclusion.

SVC Bank website: www.svc.bank.in

BPTP launches WA-VANA; An Ikigai-Inspired sustainable residential enclave in Sector 80, Faridabad
 

True to its name, WA VANA embodies the essence of harmonious living, with "WA" representing harmony and "VANA" symbolising nature. Guided by the philosophy of "WA VANA - Harmony: A Zen Sanctuary in the Oasis," the development reinterprets the timeless spirit of Japanese gardens through contemporary minimalist design and locally adapted, drought-tolerant planting, creating an intergenerational sanctuary where elders can meditate and unwind while children explore, play and connect with nature.
 

Drawing inspiration from five Japanese philosophies-Kaizen (continuous improvement), Ichigo Ichie (cherishing every moment), Shokunin (craftsmanship), Osewa (care for others) and Gaman (resilience), WA VANA has been thoughtfully master planned as a holistic lifestyle ecosystem where green spaces become the foundation for wellness, meaningful social interactions and lifelong learning across generations.
 

Project Highlights:

• Approximately ~1 -acre Japanese forest in the heart of the community

• RERA Registration No.: HRERA-PKL-FBD-939-2026

The Japanese Forest – A Sanctuary for Everyday Living

At the heart of WA VANA lies an approximately ~1-acre Japanese Forest, conceived as an immersive landscape inspired by the Japanese philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Designed as a tranquil retreat for residents of all generations, the space brings together wellness, recreation and community experiences through a carefully curated collection of themed landscapes and activity zones.
 

The Japanese Forest features a Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) trail, Zen gardens, bamboo groves, meditation pavilions, yoga decks, walking and jogging trails, children's sensory play areas, community gardens, water features, an amphitheatre and shaded seating spaces creating an environment that encourages mindfulness, active living and meaningful social connections.
 

Speaking on this occasion Mr. Amaan Chawla, President, BPTP Limited, said, “Homebuyers today are looking beyond physical infrastructure, they seek communities that enrich their everyday lives, promote well-being and foster meaningful human connections. With WA VANA, we have reimagined residential living through the philosophy of Ikigai, creating a thoughtfully planned, sustainable neighbourhood where wellness, nature and community come together seamlessly. Every aspect of the development has been designed to encourage a balanced lifestyle while delivering long-term value for residents. As Faridabad continues to be a preferred residential destination in NCR, WA VANA reflects our commitment to developing future-ready communities that combine thoughtful planning, environmental responsibility and elevated living experiences."

Located in Sector 80, Faridabad, WA-VANA enjoys excellent connectivity to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, NH-19, the recently operational Jewar International Airport and other key infrastructure corridors. The surrounding ecosystem comprises established residential developments, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, retail destinations and commercial hubs, making it one of the city's emerging residential destinations.

The development has been conceptualised with the expertise of internationally renowned landscape design firm Coopers Hill, whose planning philosophy integrates landscape, wellness and sustainability into everyday living, creating a community that balances aesthetics, functionality and long-term environmental stewardship.
 

About BPTP
BPTP is one of NCR's defining real estate developers, with over 20 years of experience in shaping the region's urban landscape. With a portfolio of 50+ residential and commercial projects and over 25,000 units delivered, the company has consistently created thoughtfully planned developments that combine contemporary architecture, premium amenities, and sustainable design. Recognised among the Top 3 developers in the ET Now Real Estate North Survey 2026, BPTP continues to set new benchmarks through its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, transparency, and customer-centric development.

L to R: The Medium Sling in Black, The Medium Tote in Black

Centered on backpacks and small bags, AXIS reflects how today's professionals move. In an era shaped by hybrid work, outdoor influences, and multi-environment living, bags have evolved beyond accessories into essential components of a functional wardrobe. From daily commutes to travel and weekend movement, AXIS is designed for 24/7 adaptability.
 

Designed to engage a younger demographic, AXIS fosters early brand affinity through versatile silhouettes grounded in performance, quality, and design. As customers' needs evolve, TUMI continues to offer solutions for every phase of life.

L to R: The Medium Crossbody in Navy, Black Reflective and Black

The collection is offered in Black and Navy as core colorways, alongside a limited-edition option in Black Reflective. Every piece is crafted from lightweight nylon with a recycled lining, with clean structure and performance-led ease.
 

Key product features include a sporty cocoon silhouette, intuitive organization, and quick-access strap storage. An athletic, breathable back panel and side-wing design, inspired by performance running vests, are paired with angled leather accents. Together, these elements create a collection that feels technical, contemporary, and unmistakably TUMI.
 

Designed to move naturally with the body, AXIS delivers fluidity, comfort, and seamless organization through a refined technical aesthetic, balancing utility and restraint in every moment.

L to R: Large Backpack 25L, Medium Backpack 20L, Medium Tote, Medium Crossbody, and Medium Sling in Black
 

"AXIS was created for a generation that is always moving forward, inspired by technology, and modernity. It was designed for the new TUMI customer whose journey does not begin and end with traditional working hours, but is defined by everything happening in their life. With its minimalist design, architectural influences, and subtle technical details, AXIS offers a new perspective on what an essential bag can be. It represents the next chapter for TUMI and for a new generation of customers who are constantly on the move," said Victor Sanz, Global Creative Director at TUMI.

The Fall 2026 TUMI AXIS collection is available now at TUMI.com and in TUMI stores worldwide. For more on the collection, follow @TUMITravel.

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we're committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions.

For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com and follow on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2026 Tumi, Inc.

Crompton Ameo Edge Air Fryer
 

Air fryers have steadily found their way into Indian homes as a smarter alternative to traditional cooking. Today, consumers expect more than just low-oil cooking—they are looking for appliances that save time, simplify meal preparation and deliver dependable performance without compromising on taste. As awareness around healthier cooking continues to grow, preserving the nutrients of food has become equally important in shaping the overall cooking experience.

Built around Crompton's Nutriguard Technology, the Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer features an innovative edge-to-edge design that maximises cooking space, delivering a spacious interior within a slim footprint. Separately, its metal interior enhances heat retention to help create golden, crunchy dishes while helping retain the food's flavour and nutritional goodness and minimising residual odours during cooking. Complementing these are SilentPro Technology, an interactive digital display with 10 preset menus, a see-through window with lamp, and dishwasher-safe components that make everyday cooking quieter, simpler and more convenient.

Key Features of the Crompton Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer

The Ameo Edge 5L comes equipped with thoughtfully designed features that support healthier and more convenient everyday cooking:

• Edge-to-Edge Design: Maximises cooking space with a spacious interior in a slim footprint, making it ideal for modern kitchens.

• Nutriguard Technology with Metal Interior: Delivers enhanced heat retention for crispier, evenly cooked food while helping preserve the nutrients of ingredients and reducing residual odours during cooking.

• Oil-Free Cooking: Enables healthier everyday meals with significantly less oil.

• SilentPro Technology: Operates at under 52 dB, making it suitable for use at any time of the day.

• Interactive Digital Display with 10 Preset Menus: Offers ease of use through intuitive controls and preset cooking options.

• See-Through Window with Lamp: Allows users to monitor the cooking process without interrupting it.

Speaking about the new launch, Anand Kumar N, Business Unit Head – Kitchen Appliances, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, "Air fryers have become an integral part of healthier cooking for many Indian households, but as the category evolves, consumers expect more than just low-oil cooking. At Crompton, we have developed the Ameo Edge to address these evolving expectations by combining healthier cooking with dependable performance and everyday convenience. At the centre of this innovation, is our Nutriguard Technology, designed to support superior heat and nutrient retention. Together with intuitive features that simplify everyday use, we are confident the Ameo Edge will become a valuable addition to modern kitchens while making healthier choices easier for consumers."

The Crompton Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer will be available across leading retail outlets (MOR/GT) priced at Rs.10,999/-. Designed for health-conscious families and working professionals, the appliance brings together dependable performance, healthier cooking and everyday convenience, making it a valuable addition to modern kitchens.

About Crompton

With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers. Beyond its consumer portfolio, Crompton also has a robust B2B presence in the Lighting segment, delivering advanced and energy-efficient solutions for commercial and industrial applications. In 2025, Crompton became the first lighting company to receive the GreenPro certification for its B2B lighting solution, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Strengthening its foothold in the renewable energy space, the company has forayed into solar rooftops—representing a significant step forward in its contribution to India’s evolving clean energy landscape. With solar solutions spanning lighting, pumps, and rooftops, Crompton continues to lead as a responsible and future-ready brand in sustainable energy.

The company's consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the company's storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of India's Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.

The highly anticipated season is expected to premiere in September 2026, with Salman Khan returning as host. The reality show is expected to air on Colors TV and stream digitally on JioHotstar.

Record-Breaking Deal 

Aadeeanant's reported weekly remuneration of ₹20 lakh places him at the top of the contestant earnings list for Bigg Boss 20. Industry observers describe the signing as one of the biggest contestant deals in the show's history.
Before accepting Bigg Boss 20, Aadeeanant reportedly declined an offer worth ₹2.5 lakh per episode for the Indian adaptation of The 50. He had also previously turned down an opportunity to participate in Lock Upp Season 2, reportedly due to scheduling commitments.

Journey in the Entertainment Industry

Before gaining mainstream recognition through reality television, Aadeeanant worked as an Assistant Director in the film industry. His transition from behind the camera to the spotlight has been seen as an inspiring career journey, earning him attention for his determination and versatility.
Background and Education
Born on May 15 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Aadeeanant is the son of Kusum and S.N. Tiwari. He completed his higher secondary education in Bhopal before moving to Mumbai, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Acting.
Apart from acting, he is known for his interest in fitness, modeling, poetry, athletics, and singing traditional ghazals. He has often spoken about his admiration for the legendary ghazal singer Jagjit Singh, once saying, "Jagjit Singh was not just a singer, he was an emotion."

Personal Life

Aadeeanant's most well-known relationship has been with Naina Hiranandani, which attracted considerable public attention during his rise in the entertainment industry.

A New Chapter

With his reported entry into Bigg Boss Season 20, Aadeeanant is expected to become one of the season's most talked-about contestants. His reported record-breaking signing fee and growing popularity have positioned him among the prominent personalities entering the reality show.
Fans are now eagerly awaiting the expected September 2026 premiere to see his journey unfold inside the Bigg Boss house.

Actor Fardeen Khan features in Provogue's new three-film digital campaign 'OGs Ka Comeback', launched as the brand expands its presence in travel and luggage

The campaign unfolds over three films, each presenting a different shade of Fardeen Khan. In the first, his earnest young team briefs him on what Gen Z considers stylish, only to discover that some things never really go out of style. In the second, Khan reflects on a partnership that shaped an era while looking ahead to a new chapter. The third is a playful, innuendo-led teaser crafted to keep audiences guessing. Together, the films reintroduce one of Indian advertising’s most recognisable brand partnerships to a new generation of consumers and will be released across digital platforms, in keeping with Provogue’s digitally native approach.

‘OGs Ka Comeback’ bridges Provogue’s legacy with its future, reconnecting the brand with those who grew up with it while introducing it to a new generation through its renewed focus on travel, luggage and lifestyle.

YouTube link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9QoBTGEvCE 

Speaking on the campaign, Pravin Prabhakar, CEO, Provogue, said, “For an entire generation, Fardeen and Provogue were inseparable; he didn’t just endorse the brand, he embodied its attitude. When we acquired the Provogue brand, one thing became immediately clear: if we were going to write its next chapter, it had to begin with the person who had become such an important part of its story. There was no better way to honour that legacy than to bring the original duo back together. ‘OGs Ka Comeback’ connects the Provogue people remember with the Provogue we are building, reimagined for a new generation while staying true to the attitude it was born with. Going forward, we are committed to aggressive expansion across lifestyle categories, strengthening our travel and luggage presence while entering adjacent segments. Our vision is to make Provogue the most digitally native lifestyle brand in India, fusing timeless attitude with contemporary relevance.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Fardeen Khan said, “Life has a way of bringing the right people and journeys back into your life. After nearly two decades, reuniting with Provogue feels both familiar and completely new. Time has changed us both, and that’s what makes this partnership so meaningful. It’s not about recreating the past, but it’s about taking everything we’ve learnt and beginning a new chapter together. I’m genuinely happy to be back and excited to write this new chapter together. Some journeys deserve another chapter. You don’t go back to where you were. You come back as who you’ve become.”

The campaign follows a milestone first year for the relaunched Provogue, during which the brand entered the travel and luggage category with a fashion-first proposition. Its portfolio spans trolley bags, backpacks and travel essentials designed for everyday style, available across major e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, as well as the brand’s own D2C website. While anchored in travel and luggage, Provogue’s roadmap extends purposefully into adjacent lifestyle categories, with ‘OGs Ka Comeback’ setting the stage for the brand’s next phase of growth.

Audiences can watch the films on Provogue’s YouTube channel, Instagram and other digital platforms.

About Provogue

Provogue is one of India’s most recognised fashion brands. Originally established as a pioneer of contemporary menswear and youth fashion, the brand was relaunched in 2025 under new promoter ownership and has since expanded into the luggage and travel category with a fashion-led, digitally native business model. Today, Provogue products are available on Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Blinkit, Zepto and through the brand’s own D2C platform.

SBI General Insurance launches its new motor insurance film with Pankaj Tripathi, reinforcing its promise of trust and dependable protection

The Motor Insurance film carries forward the core thought of ‘Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa’, into another important aspect of everyday life. Built around a simple yet relatable insight, the film highlights that just as people are careful about whom they trust with something as valuable as their vehicle, choosing the right motor insurance partner also deserves the same thought and confidence. Through a simple yet engaging narrative, the film encourages consumers to look beyond just a product and choose a partner who stands by them when it matters.

For most customers, buying a vehicle is a carefully considered decision, yet motor insurance is often treated as a routine purchase. Through the motor film, SBI General Insurance encourages consumers to make informed choices by looking beyond the policy and choosing a partner they can trust. Reinforcing its commitment to making insurance simpler, more accessible and more relevant, the company continues to deliver protection backed by trust and support when it matters most.

Commenting on the campaign, Mr. Naveen Chandra Jha, MD & CEO, SBI General Insurance, said, "Insurance is built on the confidence customers have in the partner they choose. As vehicles become an integral part of everyday life, customers are looking for protection that is simple, transparent and dependable. Through the Motor Insurance chapter of 'Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa', we continue our commitment to making insurance more relevant while delivering the support customers need throughout their ownership journey."

Adding to it, Mr. Rathin Lahiri, Head - Marketing & CSR, SBI General Insurance, said, “At the heart of this campaign is a simple idea: A car is an achievement, its private space, self-expression, gives independence and control, and is one of the most valuable assets one owns. When it comes to protecting something so valuable to you, why would you take a chance? It is better to go with the most trusted brand with its wide network of garages and documented claims support experience. Pankaj Tripathi's natural warmth and authenticity make this message resonate effortlessly across audiences. Through this campaign, we hope to encourage customers to view motor insurance not just as a policy, but provide assurance of having a dependable partner by their side."

Known for his relatable screen presence and effortless storytelling, Pankaj Tripathi continues to embody the values of trust, simplicity and dependability that define the 'Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa' campaign. His natural connection with audiences across geographies and demographics makes him an ideal ambassador for SBI General Insurance's customer-first philosophy.

The campaign will be amplified across a wide range of platforms including television, print, outdoor, OTT, and digital channels, allowing SBI General to connect with consumers through multiple formats and touchpoints.

Supporting the campaign is SBI General Insurance's comprehensive motor insurance proposition, designed to make vehicle ownership simpler and more secure. Backed by an extensive network of over 8,400+ network garages, cashless repair facilities, faster approvals and a transparent claims process, the company continues to enhance the overall customer experience while helping vehicle owners stay protected against unexpected situations with greater confidence.

View the film at -

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About SBI General Insurance

SBI General Insurance, one of the fastest-growing private general insurance firms, backed by the robust support of SBI, upholds a legacy of trust and security. We position ourselves as India's most trusted general insurer amidst a dynamic landscape. Since our establishment in 2009, our expansion has been substantial, growing from 17 branches in 2011 to a nationwide presence in 182 branches. In FY 2025-26, SBI General Insurance reported a Gross Direct Premium (GDP) of INR 15,904 crores, recording a YOY growth of 14.5%.

The company received numerous prestigious accolades, showcasing its excellence across various domains. Key honors include winning the Domestic General Insurer of the Year – India and Claims Initiative of the Year – India at the Insurance Asia Awards 2025 in Singapore, Smart Insurer for the year 2025 at the ETNOW Insurance Summit & Awards 2025, India’s Leading General Insurance Company (Mid) for its outstanding performance at the 18th edition of the Dun & Bradstreet BFSI & Fintech Summit 2026 and Best General Insurance Company of the Year at 4th Edition of Future of Insurance Summit 2025.

Certified as a Great Place to Work in 2025, the company also excelled at 8th ICC Social Impact Award 2026 for its commitment to CSR Activities in Project Mission for Vision in Meghalaya, and "ET NOW Champions of CSR" at the ET Edge ET NOW Champions of CSR 2025.

With a team of over 9,900+ employees and our multi-distribution model covering Bancassurance, Agency, OEM, Broking, Retail Direct Channels, and Digital collaborations, we are committed to providing both Suraksha and Bharosa to all our consumers. Leveraging a vast network that includes over 23000+ SBI branches, plus agents, financial alliances, OEMs, and digital partners, we extend our services to even the most remote areas of India. Our offerings cater to Retail, Corporate, SME and Rural segments, and our diverse product portfolio ensures accessibility through both digital and physical channels.

Held every year around India's Independence Day, the offer has become one of Glen's most anticipated shopping moments. This edition's core message is an upgrade: encouraging households still using conventional chimneys to move to BLDC technology, which delivers stronger suction, quieter operation and greater energy efficiency. Alongside the BLDC range, the sale also covers Glen's heat auto-clean and designer chimney collections.
 

Hero Products in the Sale

Three models anchor this year's campaign:

• CH6076HSRDCAC90 (Double Draft Auto-clean chimney with Heat Sensor & BLDC Motor

• CH6061LCDDCAC90 (Curved Glass Chimney with LCD Display and BLDC Motor

• CH6052LCDDCAC60 (T-shape Chimney with LCD Display and BLDC Motor
   

Commenting on the sale, Rintu Dasgupta, COO, Glen Appliances Pvt. Ltd., said, “Indoor air quality is one of the most overlooked aspects of kitchen wellness in Indian homes. Every year, the Independence Day Offer gives us an opportunity to encourage this shift, moving households from conventional chimneys to our BLDC range, which is quieter, more powerful and more energy-efficient. Smoke-free kitchens aren’t a luxury anymore; they’re fast becoming an essential part of how modern Indian families cook and live, and we’re glad to make that upgrade more accessible this festive season.”
 

Availability

The Glen Independence Day Offer is live on the Glen India website and across the brand's network of 200+ exclusive Glen Galleries nationwide.
 

Shop the sale: glenindia.com/pages/independance-day-offer-2026

About Glen Appliances

Founded in 1999, Glen Appliances Pvt. Ltd. is one of India's leading kitchen and home appliance brands, known for pioneering products such as auto-ignition cooktops and silent chimneys. With a growing focus on wellness-driven innovation, including smoke-free kitchen solutions that address indoor air pollution, Glen operates a nationwide network of 200+ exclusive Glen Galleries and 300+ service centres, supported by in-house manufacturing and a strong after-sales infrastructure.

As part of his upcoming international schedule, Balyan will begin his North American campaign at the Mexican International Future Series, a key tournament offering valuable BWF ranking points. Having previously achieved a career-best senior ranking of World No. 195, he is determined to surpass that milestone and continue his climb toward the highest level of international badminton.

A Journey Built on Sacrifice, Discipline, and Determination

Behind Gagan Balyan’s achievements lies a journey defined by years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the sport. Long before earning international recognition, he invested countless hours in rigorous training, overcoming challenges and making personal sacrifices in pursuit of excellence.

His perseverance paid off when he rose to become World Junior No. 26, establishing himself among the finest young badminton players in the world. A defining moment of his junior career came with his Gold Medal victory at the Bangladesh Junior International Series, where his aggressive style, tactical maturity, and composure under pressure showcased his immense potential on the international stage.

Rather than treating junior success as the destination, Balyan viewed it as the foundation for a much bigger ambition—to compete with the world’s best on the senior circuit.

Making His Mark on the Senior International Circuit

Transitioning from junior to senior badminton is one of the toughest challenges in the sport, but Gagan Balyan has adapted impressively through consistent performances against experienced international competitors.

His remarkable back-to-back quarterfinal finishes at the Bahrain International Series and the Telangana International Challenge demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure while competing against higher-ranked opponents.

These performances have reinforced his reputation as one of India’s fastest-rising men’s singles players.

Consistency Across Global Competitions

Balyan has continued to build valuable international experience through strong performances across multiple BWF tournaments.

His impressive campaigns at the Malaysia International Challenge, Nepal International Challenge, and Uganda International Challenge, where he reached the pre-quarterfinal stages, highlight both his adaptability and growing confidence on the global stage.

Each tournament has contributed not only valuable ranking points but also the experience required to compete consistently at the highest level of international badminton.

Success on the National Stage

While making steady progress internationally, Gagan Balyan has also delivered outstanding performances within India.

Competing against some of the country’s best players, he recently secured the Silver Medal at the Senior National Inter-State Team Badminton Championship, further strengthening his position among India’s leading men’s singles athletes.

His consistent results across domestic and international tournaments reflect his steady evolution into a complete and mature competitor.

Eyes Firmly Set on the Top 100

The upcoming Mexican International Future Series represents a significant opportunity in Balyan’s pursuit of a higher world ranking.

A strong performance in Mexico could provide a major boost to his BWF ranking while moving him closer to his long-term goal of entering the Top 100 in the world. The tournament also marks the beginning of an important international campaign that could define the next stage of his professional journey.

Representing the Future of Indian Badminton

As Indian badminton continues to expand its presence on the global stage, Gagan Balyan represents a new generation of athletes driven by perseverance, discipline, and an unwavering desire to succeed.

His journey—from a young player making sacrifices to become World Junior No. 26, to an emerging force on the senior international circuit—reflects not only talent but also years of relentless hard work and resilience.

With every international tournament, Balyan moves one step closer to achieving his dream of competing among the world’s elite while inspiring countless young athletes across the country.

Conclusion

Gagan Balyan’s rise in international badminton is a story of determination, perseverance, and continuous growth. From earning recognition as World Junior No. 26 to consistently delivering strong performances on the senior circuit, he has demonstrated the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level.

As he prepares for the Mexican International Future Series, the talented Indian shuttler remains focused on collecting crucial BWF ranking points and achieving his ambition of breaking into the Top 100 of the BWF World Rankings. With his commitment, experience, and competitive spirit, Gagan Balyan continues to emerge as one of India’s brightest badminton stars and a strong contender for future success on the global stage.

Bridging Academic Rigor and Real-World Execution

Traditionally, high-level financial engineering—such as multi-variable discounted cash flow (DCF) modeling, sensitivity analyses, and precise EBITDA enterprise valuations—has been reserved for large corporations with dedicated FP&A teams or accessible only through expensive financial consultants. For most scaling business owners, financial forecasting meant navigating brittle, easy-to-break spreadsheet matrices.

Parth Bhansali set out to change this paradigm. Driven by a deep-seated passion for financial markets and quantitative economics, Bhansali has actively contributed to the field through published research papers exploring corporate finance dynamics, capital structure optimization, and economic risk modeling.

Recognizing that sophisticated financial theory rarely trickles down into accessible software for small businesses, Bhansali channeled his research background into architecting VentureScale. The platform translates complex mathematical frameworks into a deterministic, zero-configuration web interface that requires no financial engineering expertise to operate.

"I built VentureScale because I saw a massive disconnect between complex financial theory and the practical, everyday tools available to founders and business operators," said Parth Bhansali, Founder and Architect of VentureScale. "Having spent years researching market mechanics and financial structures, my goal was to make institutional-grade modeling completely frictionless. Business owners shouldn't have to battle broken spreadsheet formulas just to understand their cash runway, evaluate sensitivity to pricing changes, or determine their enterprise value."

Core Capabilities of VentureScale

By simply inputting core unit economics, gross margins, and fixed overhead costs, VentureScale's underlying engine automatically calculates cascading financial statements and predictive metrics in real time.

Key features include:

●      Automated Projections & Institutional Valuations: Generates board-ready Profit & Loss (P&L) statements, cash flow forecasts, and automated enterprise valuations derived from industry-standard EBITDA multiples and DCF models.

●      Dynamic Multi-Scenario Stress Testing: Enables founders to test risk assumptions instantly by toggling between Base, Best, and Worst-case scenarios—modeling the downstream impacts of inflation, raw material price shifts, or hiring changes.

●      Visual Intelligence & Investor Reporting: Converts complex data tables into high-resolution, interactive visual charts designed for pitch decks, board meetings, and lender discussions.

●      Frictionless Capital Planning: Gives founders a real-time view of burn rates and runway horizons, helping businesses time their equity or debt financing rounds with precision.

Empowering the Next Generation of Scaling Businesses

For Bhansali, VentureScale represents the intersection of rigorous academic enquiry and practical entrepreneurial execution. By abstracting high-level financial modeling into an intuitive software layer, VentureScale aims to level the playing field for scaling enterprises worldwide.

About VentureScale

VentureScale is an institutional-grade, web-based financial modeling engine built specifically for SMEs. Designed for zero-friction usability, the platform allows founders and executives to project cash flows, stress-test business assumptions, and generate accurate valuations instantly.

It is a declaration of intent: India's next chapter in healthcare will not be written only in its metros, but in every pin code the country has to offer — and it starts with honest affordable pricing, a family-first membership model, doctor-explained reports, and a promise that quality diagnostics should never be a metro-only privilege.

Stepping into the centre in Gurgaon Fringes feels less like a clinical errand and more like stepping into a calm, considered space engineered to put people at ease long before the scan begins. It is diagnostics reimagined as an experience of care, not a transaction — and it is designed to travel to exactly the cities that have never had access to it.

Affordability and Accessibility, Engineered

Years spent running high-volume public-private partnership and institutional diagnostic operations across entire districts and states have taught the company how to deliver uncompromising quality at radically lower cost. That scale advantage is now being passed directly to the consumer — honest, transparent pricing with zero compromise on quality or turnaround time, built for markets that have long been priced out of branded, integrated diagnostics.

Every new TRUtest centre also becomes a local growth engine — creating jobs for technicians, phlebotomists, radiologists and support staff on the ground, while lifting local vendors, transport and allied services in the neighbourhoods it serves. This is not diagnostics arriving from outside a city; it is diagnostics built into the local economy.

Not Just a New Brand — A New Category of Care

TRUtest is entering the market with a suite of concrete, live innovations designed to move diagnostics beyond a one-time report and into a lifelong health relationship:

• Honest & Transparent Pricing — high-quality diagnostics at substantially lower rates than the market, with zero compromise on quality or turnaround time as we have acquired the knowledge & expertise of economies of scale in the ongoing PPP & B2B businesses serving the masses.
• TRU-Mitra Family Plan — one family, one membership, one relationship manager — a loyalty programme built around continuous care, not a one-off visit.
• Smart Reporting & Report Counselling — every report interpreted and explained by a doctor, with a complimentary consultation, turning results into actionable health insight.
• Genomic & Metabolic Integrated Panels — predisposition testing and metabolic deep-dives, combined with radiology, extending well beyond routine testing.
• Elderly & Chronic Care Reminders — a predictive Annual Health Calendar with proactive concierge check-ins, so a good report is never followed by silence.
• ABHA-Integrated Reporting & Low-Dose CT Screening — reports woven into India's national digital health record, alongside advanced early-detection scanning for lung and cardiac risk.

Leadership Commentary

“We are India's fastest-growing comprehensive diagnostics company — and that growth is built on the ethos and legacy of the Manipal Group, a heritage that has always put trust, accuracy and hygiene first.”

“But we believe trust today needs a new lens. India's healthcare story for the last two decades has been about building capacity — more hospitals, more beds, more labs. The next two decades will be about building trust at the individual level. And for us, that trust isn't only a promise — it's tangible innovation: transforming what it actually feels like to get tested and turning every result into a step in someone's journey toward longevity and wellness, not just a report filed away.”

— Dr. (Capt.) Sandeep Sharma, CEO, Healthmap Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd.

The Road Ahead: 50 Centres, ₹250 Crore, Five Years

With its first integrated centre now live in Gurugram, TRUtest Diagnostics will roll out four more centres across the Delhi-NCR region in FY26-27, before expanding into the fringe and Tier 2/3 cities that sit at the heart of its mission. Over the next five years, the company plans to build 50 such centres nationally, targeting an overall revenue of ₹250 crore by Year 5 — the same proven PPP and institutional economics that built its scale, now aimed squarely at the cities growing fastest.

TRUtest Diagnostics is not setting out merely to deliver accurate results. It is setting out to build India's most trusted, most accessible, end-to-end diagnostics experience — one that gives every individual, in every pin code, timely insight, a simplified path to care, and greater confidence in managing their health, for life.

Built Different, From Day One

India's diagnostics industry remains strikingly unorganised — listed players together account for barely 10-12% of the market — and even among organised players, most operate lopsided, heavy in either pathology or radiology, rarely both. TRUtest was conceived to break that mould: built from day one on an equal, 50:50 foundation of pathology and radiology, because accurate diagnosis cannot be delivered in isolated fragments.

Built Through Scale and Consolidation

HealthMap Diagnostics began its journey through public-private partnership (PPP) initiatives across Haryana and Jharkhand before expanding organically into pathology and radiology as distinct business verticals. The company's growth accelerated through the strategic acquisitions of Medcis Pathlabs, strengthening its routine pathology capabilities, and iGenetic, enhancing its specialty diagnostics portfolio. These milestones culminated in an NCLT-approved merger in 2023, alongside a significant expansion of its PPP footprint in Maharashtra. Today, HealthMap Diagnostics has established a strong presence across Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Odisha.

Scale, Trust and Recognition

The company has been recognised as the Most Renowned Diagnostic Chain in India (2024) and the Most Trusted Diagnostic Chain in India (2023), alongside FICCI and India Today Excellence in Healthcare honours (2018) and Express Healthcare's Best Radiology Chain award (2018 and 2019).

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. The publisher does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.

The launch introduces Hair Drama Co.'s handcrafted statement accessories to Nordstrom's premium retail ecosystem, introducing the brand to a discerning customer base that values craftsmanship, contemporary design, and elevated fashion.
 

Founded in 2015, Hair Drama Co. was built on the belief that hair deserves the same style attention as apparel, jewellery, and handbags. Today, the brand offers more than 1,000 products across 15 categories for women and children, spanning everyday accessories, handcrafted statement pieces, bridal collections, hats, scarves, gifting and hair perfumes.
 

Over the years, Hair Drama Co. has developed licensed collections for Disney, Barbie and Netflix's Emily in Paris, reinforcing its position as a design-led brand at the intersection of fashion, beauty and pop culture.
 

Today, Hair Drama Co. offers more than 1,000 products across 15 categories, from everyday pieces and wedding hair jewellery to hats, scarves and hair beauty products. The debut collection for Nordstrom has been curated to showcase Hair Drama Co.’s signature aesthetic through intricate embellishment, occasion-ready accessories and statement designs curated specially for the American customer.
 

“Seeing Hair Drama Co. launch on Nordstrom is an incredibly proud moment for us,” said Priyanka Sanghi, Founder, Hair Drama Co. “We have always believed that Indian craftsmanship belongs on the world’s leading fashion platforms. This launch gives our craftmanship the global visibility they deserve.”
 

To support the Nordstrom launch, Hair Drama Co. expanded its artisan team from 20 to 30 craftspeople, creating additional opportunities for skilled artisans while preserving intricate handcrafted techniques. Each collection is developed through a collaborative design process in which artisans contribute traditional techniques and creative interpretations. Some of the brand's most detailed accessories require six to seven hours of handcrafting, combining embroidery, crystals, beads, and intricate embellishments.

Beyond its ready-to-wear collections, Hair Drama Co. also creates bespoke accessories for brides, fashion campaigns, and editorial shoots, with several custom creations later evolving into commercial collections. Its designs have also been featured in global campaigns and music videos, including a custom accessory created for Nora Fatehi's FIFA music video.

The launch has already generated encouraging early demand, with select embellished pieces and wedding hair pins sold out within hours of launch, triggering immediate replenishment and accelerating Phase II inventory rollout.

The Nordstrom launch follows more than two years of selling through Amazon USA and represents an important step in Hair Drama Co.’s strategy to build a long-term premium presence in the US.
 

Hair Drama Co. currently serves customers across India, the United States, Europe, Dubai and Hong Kong. Its growing retail presence includes Nordstrom in the United States, Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Hamleys for its children's collections and one of India's leading fashion destinations, Myntra and Nykaa, alongside other premium retail partners. Hair Drama Co. products are regularly used by leading hairstylists and have been worn by several well-known personalities including Larissa Bonesi, Alia Bhatt, and Madhuri Dixit.
 

Looking ahead, Hair Drama Co. plans to deepen its U.S. retail presence, expand partnerships across Europe and continue growing its hair beauty portfolio with products such as hair perfumes and easy, on-the-go styling products.
 

“Today’s customer wants to know where a product comes from, who made it and what makes it distinctive,” Sanghi added. “Our ambition is to present Indian craftsmanship as contemporary, fashion-forward and globally relevant. Sometimes, the accessory really is the whole outfit.”
 

About Hair Drama Co.

Founded in 2015 by Priyanka Sanghi, Hair Drama Co. is an Indian hair fashion and beauty brand offering more than 1,000 styles across 15-plus categories. Combining trend-led design with detailed Indian craftsmanship, the brand creates expressive, contemporary accessories and hair beauty products for customers across India and international markets.

Class 12 Student Achievers Felicitated by Somaiya Vidyavihar University

The students represented Bhavishya Yaan NM Joshi School, Green Fingers Global School, GSPM's Rushikul Vidyalaya, Kanakia International School, Lodha World School, Mayor World School, Pace Junior Science College, Podar International School, Prabhadevi Municipal Secondary School, Reliance Foundation School, S M Shetty High School and Junior College, Scottish High International School, Shreeya Devi Bhagirath Rathi Maheshwari Vidyapeeth, St Xavier Global Academy, Vidya Devi Jindal School, Billabong High International School, and SIES College.

The cohort also included students from institutions within the Somaiya ecosystem, including The Somaiya School, S K Somaiya Vinaymandir, K J Somaiya College of Science and Commerce, and K J Somaiya Junior College of Arts and Commerce.

The ceremony was graced by Dr Bhavesh Patel, Professor and Principal, Shah & Anchor Kutchhi Engineering College, as Chief Guest. With over three decades of experience in teaching, research and academic administration, Dr Patel brought both academic depth and real-world insight to the occasion. 

Addressing the students, Dr Bhavesh Patel said, “Your HSC score is not your destiny, it is your launchpad. As we now live in the world of AI, keep learning and transforming with time. Always stay curious, be creative and remember that failure is just a part of your growth journey. Your intelligence is a national resource; use it wisely and generously.”

Dr Pradnya Prabhu, Principal, S K Somaiya College of Arts, Science and Commerce, attended as Special Guest, while Mr Ashish Tambe, Director, Public Relations, Somaiya Vidyavihar, was the Guest of Honour.

Prof Ajay Kapoor, Vice Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, said, “A Class 12 result is not merely a score; it is a sign of consistency, curiosity, discipline and determination. But more importantly, it is the beginning of a larger journey. As these young achievers enter higher education, they will have the opportunity to discover new disciplines, ask deeper questions, build new capabilities and imagine futures that are meaningful not only for themselves, but also for society. At Somaiya Vidyavihar University, we believe that education must open possibilities, and recognising excellence at this stage is one way of encouraging students to keep learning, exploring and growing.”

Aarathy Thampy and Swaraj Thampi, parents of Vedant from The Somaiya School, who scored 96.40% in the Commerce stream, said, “Seeing our son achieve 96.40% is a moment of immense pride for our family. The recognition he received today made the achievement even more special. We are grateful to the teachers at The Somaiya School for their dedication, support and the nurturing environment they created for students.”

The Somaiya Vidyavihar University Academic Excellence Awards celebrate Class 12 achievers not only for their scores, but for the discipline, resilience, curiosity and potential behind those scores. By bringing together students, parents, teachers, school leaders and academic experts, the initiative seeks to inspire young learners to see higher education as a space where knowledge opens minds, values shape choices and achievement grows into meaningful contribution.

Built on the 84-year legacy of Somaiya Vidyavihar, Somaiya Vidyavihar University is a multidisciplinary university that encourages students to learn across disciplines, engage with research and innovation, and grow as responsible individuals rooted in values. Guided by its motto, ज्ञानादेव तु कैवल्यम् — Knowledge Alone Liberates — the University believes that education must nurture both capability and character.

Through the Somaiya Campus Showcase, students and parents were introduced to the University’s vibrant academic ecosystem, research culture, innovation initiatives, interdisciplinary learning opportunities, entrepreneurship support and holistic campus life. The experience aimed to help students visualise the many pathways that open after Class 12 and understand higher education as a space of exploration, growth and purpose.

Over the past three years, the Somaiya Vidyavihar University Excellence Awards have grown into a meaningful platform for celebrating outstanding Class 12 students from schools across India. True to the University’s belief in the transformative power of education, the awards encourage students to move from achievement to aspiration, and from aspiration to purposeful action.

About Somaiya Vidyavihar University
Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Mumbai, established in 2019, is a private, self-financed university recognised by the University Grants Commission. Accredited with an ‘A’ Grade by NAAC, the University is built on the 84-year legacy of Somaiya Vidyavihar and is guided by the motto ज्ञानादेव तु कैवल्यम् — Knowledge Alone Liberates.

With a multidisciplinary academic ecosystem across management, engineering and technology, science, commerce and business studies, humanities and social sciences, education, design, dharma studies, civilisation studies, music and performing arts, art, film, language and literature, sports, library and information science, and allied areas, the University offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes. Located in Mumbai, Somaiya Vidyavihar University integrates academic learning with research, innovation, entrepreneurship, industry engagement, experiential learning and holistic development.

Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, announces the handover of 11 Danube Properties projects across Dubai over the next 12 months
 

The upcoming handovers include Elitz 1 & 3 by Danube in Jumeirah Village Circle, Sportz by Danube in Dubai Sports City, Viewz 1 & 2 by Danube in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Oceanz 1, 2 & 3 by Danube in Dubai Maritime City, Fashionz by Danube in Jumeirah Village Triangle, and Oasiz 1 & 2 by Danube in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
 

Commenting on the milestone, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said, "Over the next 12 months, we are proud to hand over 11 projects, reflecting our commitment to delivering quality developments on time despite the recent regional uncertainty. These handovers represent the trust thousands of families have placed in my company and the incredible city of Dubai."
 

Despite recent geopolitical developments in the GCC, which doubled the building material costs, Danube Properties remained committed to delivering every project as promised, supported by Danube Building Materials. "We absorbed the increased cost of procuring construction materials because keeping our promise to customers has always come first," Sajan added. "Delivering on time is part of our DNA, and we look forward to welcoming thousands of new homeowners to the Danube family in the months ahead."
 

With a strong pipeline of project deliveries, Danube Properties continues to contribute to Dubai's position as one of the world's leading real estate investment destinations, supported by visionary leadership, sustained economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment.
 

Dubai also offers attractive rental yields compared to many global cities, while eligible property investments provide access to the UAE's Golden Visa programme, offering long-term residency and enhanced lifestyle opportunities.

About Danube Properties

Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is one of the UAE's leading private real estate developers. Renowned for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company develops fully furnished homes with more than 40 lifestyle amenities and has built a strong reputation for quality construction and timely delivery.

Over 60 million consumers across 850+ cities and towns have now checked their free credit score on Paisabazaar

Since launching its free credit score platform in 2017, Paisabazaar has focused on making credit information simple, accessible and actionable for every Indian. Consumers on the Paisabazaar platform can instantly access their credit scores from all four credit bureaus, free of cost, in multiple Indian languages, making it one of the country's most comprehensive credit awareness platforms.
 

Over the last decade, Paisabazaar has consistently invested in technology, consumer education and brand initiatives to deepen credit awareness across India. The platform has played a pivotal role in taking credit awareness beyond metropolitan India, helping consumers across smaller cities, towns and underserved segments understand, monitor and improve their credit health.

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, "Crossing 60 million consumers marks an important milestone in our mission to build a more credit-aware and credit-fit India. Going forward, our focus is on helping every consumer navigate their credit journey with confidence—whether it's building a credit history, improving credit health, or accessing the right financial products. We will continue to leverage technology and data-driven insights to make credit more transparent, inclusive and empowering for millions of Indians."

The Paisabazaar platform, over the years, has evolved beyond providing free credit scores. Consumers on the platform receive personalised insights through the Credit Health Report, which highlights the factors impacting their credit profile and recommends actionable steps to improve it. For consumers with damaged credit aiming to rebuild their credit history, Paisabazaar offers a comprehensive Credit Improvement Program, including AI-led insights, expert guidance and personalized advice.

Credit Progression is another key aspect of Paisabazaar’s commitment to expanding access to credit, helping consumers build healthier credit profiles. This includes large yet credit-starved segments like new-to-credit consumers, who are offered builder products such as secured credit cards, helping them build strong credit profiles over time and access formal credit.

Credit healthy consumers, on the other hand, benefit from personalised and pre-approved offers from lenders, supported by Paisabazaar's proprietary Chance of Approval model, which helps them identify and apply for offers with certainty.

Paisabazaar continues to enhance the platform with technology-led innovations and data-driven insights, making credit management more intuitive and accessible. As India's digital credit ecosystem matures, the company remains focused on empowering consumers across every stage of their credit journey—from first-time borrowers building their credit history to experienced borrowers seeking the best credit opportunities—while advancing its larger mission of building a more financially aware and credit-fit India.

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s leading marketplace for financial products and a free credit score platform. Over the last 12+ years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust and goodwill of over 58 million consumers from 850 cities and towns across India. Paisabazaar has built wide and deep partnerships across the ecosystem, to offer a broad range of financial products, ranging from loans and cards to investments and savings along with bill payments and mobile recharge. The platform also enables consumers to check their free credit score from all 4 CICs (Credit Bureaus) in India. Paisabazaar is an ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

How Personalized Mantras Are Shaping the Future of Digital Spiritual Wellness in India

Traditionally, Vedic astrology has emphasized that spiritual remedies should be tailored to a person's unique horoscope. Factors such as planetary placements, ongoing Mahadasha or Antardasha, and specific life challenges often influence the remedies suggested by experienced astrologers. Yet, in the digital world, many users still rely on the same commonly recommended mantras without understanding whether they are the most suitable for their individual circumstances.

This changing mindset is encouraging astrology platforms to rethink how spiritual guidance is delivered in the digital age.

The Shift Towards Personalized Spiritual Guidance
For years, online astrology has largely focused on daily horoscopes, compatibility reports, and Kundli analysis. While these services remain popular, users are increasingly seeking actionable guidance that they can incorporate into their everyday lives.

Mantra chanting has always been one of the most widely recommended Vedic remedies for improving focus, emotional well-being, and spiritual discipline. However, astrologers believe that the effectiveness of a mantra often depends on its relevance to an individual's birth chart rather than its popularity.

As awareness around personalized astrology grows, many users are beginning to ask a different question - not "Which mantra is the most powerful?" but "Which mantra is right for me?"

This shift reflects a broader movement toward personalized spiritual wellness, where remedies are aligned with an individual's astrological profile instead of following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Technology Meets Traditional Astrology
Modern technology is making it easier for people to access experienced astrologers without geographical barriers. Rather than replacing traditional practices, digital platforms are helping make them more convenient and accessible.

Recognizing this trend, Neo Astro has introduced Personalized Mantra Plans, a new feature that recommends mantras based on a user's birth chart, planetary positions, and current Dasha.

Instead of offering a single mantra for everyone, the platform enables users to receive recommendations tailored to their individual spiritual journey.

The feature includes three different categories:

• Lifetime Mantra – Recommended for long-term spiritual growth and life path.

• Remedial Mantra – Suggested to address specific life concerns or planetary influences.

• Dasha Mantra – Based on the user's current planetary period to support different phases of life.

According to the app, these mantra plans are prescribed by experienced astrologers after studying the user's birth chart, bringing together traditional Vedic principles with the convenience of a digital platform.

Making Spiritual Practice More Meaningful
One of the biggest challenges many people face with mantra chanting is consistency. Users often struggle to decide which mantra to chant, how long to continue, or whether they are following a practice relevant to their personal circumstances.

Personalized recommendations help simplify this process by providing clearer direction. Instead of choosing from hundreds of popular mantras available online, users receive guidance designed specifically for their astrological profile.

This allows spiritual practice to become more structured and purposeful while encouraging users to develop a consistent daily routine.

A Growing Trend in Digital Spiritual Wellness
India's digital wellness ecosystem has expanded rapidly in recent years, with growing interest in meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and astrology. At the same time, users are increasingly expecting personalized experiences across digital services, from fitness plans and nutrition advice to financial recommendations.

Spiritual wellness is gradually following the same path.
Rather than consuming generic content, users are looking for guidance that reflects their personal goals, life circumstances, and belief systems. Personalized mantras represent one example of how technology can support this evolution without compromising the authenticity of traditional practices.

Looking Ahead
As digital spirituality continues to evolve, personalization is likely to play an increasingly important role in helping users build meaningful and sustainable spiritual habits.

By introducing birth chart-based Personalized Mantra Plans, Neo Astro is responding to this growing demand for individualized guidance. The feature reflects a broader shift within the digital astrology space-from offering information to providing practical, personalized spiritual recommendations that users can integrate into their daily lives.

As more people seek spiritual practices aligned with their own life journey rather than generic solutions, personalized mantras may become an important part of the future of digital spiritual wellness in India.

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies accelerates investments in R&D and engineering to build a globally competitive Indian technology brand

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies recorded over Rs 965 crore in revenue in its first shortened financial year and crossed Rs 1,650 crore in Q1 FY27. The company is now expanding investments across software, engineering, testing and R&D as part of its larger ambition to build a globally competitive Indian smartphone brand.

Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “India has already established itself as one of the world's largest smartphone markets and manufacturing hubs. The next opportunity is to build globally competitive technology brands from India. With Ai+, our focus is on taking global industry learnings and progressively building stronger capabilities across software, R&D, engineering and intellectual property within the country.”

The company has invested approximately Rs 60 crore towards software development, engineering and server infrastructure in India and plans to further strengthen its R&D capabilities, including building a team of over 150 engineers.

Ai+ believes the next phase of India's electronics growth will be driven not only by manufacturing scale but also by greater domestic ownership of technology, design, software and intellectual property.

Sheth added, “Our ambition goes beyond selling smartphones. We want to build deeper technology capabilities in India and contribute towards creating an ecosystem that can eventually compete at a global level.”

As Ai+ smartphone enters its next phase of growth, it remains committed to advancing indigenous technology, strengthening India's innovation ecosystem and building a globally competitive smartphone brand from India.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India's first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

The name change has been approved by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India, and reflects the company's evolving business vision while continuing to operate with the same legal entity, management, values, and commitment to its stakeholders.

As VERITASOURCE Private Limited, the company will continue to strengthen its presence across its existing business domains while exploring new opportunities driven by technology, innovation, and customer-centric solutions. The new identity represents the company's long-term vision of building trusted, value-driven businesses for customers, partners, and stakeholders.

Speaking on the announcement, Vivek Khanna, CEO & Executive Director, said, "Our transition from OKAYA Infocom Private Limited to VERITASOURCE Private Limited marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. While our name has changed, our commitment to excellence, integrity, innovation, and customer satisfaction remains stronger than ever. This new identity reflects our future aspirations while preserving the legacy and trust we have built over the years."

The company clarified that this is only a change in the corporate name, and there is no change in the company's legal status, ownership, operations, contractual obligations, or business relationships. All existing agreements, commitments, and services will continue uninterrupted.

Customers, business partners, vendors, financial institutions, and other stakeholders are requested to update their records to reflect the company's new name: VERITASOURCE Private Limited

The company will gradually implement the new corporate identity across all communication channels, digital platforms, branding materials, and official documentation.

About VERITASOURCE Private Limited
VERITASOURCE Private Limited (formerly OKAYA Infocom Private Limited) is committed to delivering innovative business and technology solutions with a strong focus on quality, trust, and customer satisfaction. Backed by years of industry experience, the company continues to evolve its capabilities to meet the changing needs of businesses and consumers while building sustainable value for all stakeholders.

While audiences applaud the films and celebrate the winners at the Emirates Film Festival (EFF), few know the story of the woman whose unwavering support helped shape the festival's journey from its earliest years.

That woman is Ayesha Zaki.

An aspiring filmmaker and producer herself, Ayesha founded Tinseltown Film Production with a vision to create films that resonate with humanity and social relevance. Her passion for meaningful cinema naturally aligned with the mission of the Emirates Film Festival, where she became involved from its formative years and has remained one of its strongest supporters ever since.

Since 2018, Ayesha Zaki has stood firmly beside the Emirates Film Festival, not for recognition, but for its vision.

As the festival navigated financial and logistical challenges, particularly during its formative years under founder Ron Awa, Ayesha understood the struggles of building an independent film movement with limited resources. Instead of merely offering words of encouragement, she became part of the solution.

Over the years, she quietly sponsored venues, trophies, plaques, transportation, and numerous operational expenses that are essential to running a successful international film festival. Beyond financial support, she leveraged her professional network to bring local and international brands on board and arranged extensive media coverage, significantly increasing the festival's visibility across platforms.

Many of these contributions happened away from the cameras.

They were never accompanied by press conferences, promotional campaigns, or public announcements. In an era where every contribution is often documented for social media, Ayesha deliberately chose a different path.

Her philosophy has always been simple:

"Work in silence. Let your success make the noise."

That philosophy became the driving force behind years of consistent support that helped the Emirates Film Festival grow into the respected platform it is today.

Her influence extended beyond sponsorship. Having submitted numerous films herself and actively encouraging emerging filmmakers, Ayesha inspired others to pursue independent cinema while continuing to strengthen the festival from behind the scenes. Her humble beginnings and commitment to socially relevant storytelling also earned her recognition within Dubai's independent film community and beyond.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, Ayesha Zaki was appointed the Brand Ambassador of the Emirates Film Festival- an honour that acknowledges years of dedication that largely went unnoticed by the public but never by those who witnessed the festival's journey firsthand.

Festival organisers acknowledge that much of the support that sustained the Emirates Film Festival during its most challenging years came from individuals who believed in its vision before the spotlight arrived. Among them, Ayesha Zaki remains one of the most influential.

The success of the Emirates Film Festival is the result of collective effort, but its continued growth has been significantly strengthened by Ayesha Zaki's steadfast commitment, generosity, and belief in independent cinema.

Her story is a reminder that the most powerful leaders are not always those standing on the stage.

Sometimes, they are the ones quietly building it.

As the Emirates Film Festival continues to expand its global footprint, Ayesha Zaki's legacy stands as a powerful testament that true impact is measured not by the attention one receives, but by the difference one makes.

Razorpay Recognized Among 'World's Top Fintech Companies,'  Payments Category, by CNBC & Statista

Compiled by CNBC in partnership with Statista, the annual ranking is based on company KPIs, desk research and CNBC’s editorial and compliance review. Of over 3,500 companies evaluated across more than 50 countries and territories, only 500 made the final cut - placing Razorpay among a truly select global cohort. This recognition reflects Razorpay’s continued innovation, product leadership and growing presence and impact across the global fintech ecosystem.

Harshil Mathur, Razorpay CEO & Co-Founder said, “India isn't just a fast-growing fintech market anymore - it's becoming ground zero for where the future of financial technology gets built. This recognition, year after year, only strengthens our conviction: products built for India's scale and complexity don't just work for India - they set the benchmark for the world. As AI reshapes financial services, our commitment stays the same - building the infrastructure that helps every business grow with more intelligence, more speed, and more trust.”

Driven by its mission to simplify money movement, Razorpay continues to build products that help millions of businesses manage payments and financial operations with greater ease and confidence - serving customers across India, Malaysia and Singapore. As the world looks to India as the next frontier of AI and financial innovation, Razorpay is proud to be building technology. This recognition reflects our belief that world-class fintech can be built in India, for India, and increasingly, for the world.

About Razorpay

Razorpay, an omnichannel payments platform for businesses, strives to help Indian businesses with innovative solutions built with technology to address the payment and banking journey for businesses. Established in 2014 by alumni of IIT Roorkee, Shashank Kumar and Harshil Mathur, the company strives to provide technology payment solutions to many businesses. A few angel investors have also invested in Razorpay’s mission to simplify payments and business banking.

RSB Group Celebrates 4th Edition of 'Ek Pahal' Annual Day

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. S.K. Behera, Vice Chairman, RSB Group, along with family members Mrs. Sangeeta Behera and Mrs. Nalini Behera, whose presence added great significance to the celebration.

The celebration marked a major milestone as the Ek Pahal community grew significantly larger this year, warmly welcoming over 200 women employees from Setco into the RSB Parivar. The event brought together female employees from Jamshedpur and all other RSB centres across India.

The highlight of the day was an enriching and deeply inspiring round-table panel discussion. Trailblazers from diverse fields, Dr. Rekha Panda, Ms Singo Mardi, Mrs Leena Adesara, and Ms Deboshri Dutta shared their profound life experiences. The discussion focused on the hard work, passion and commitment required to turn big ambitions into daily actions, offering the audience a masterclass on how to translate raw dreams into concrete reality. These powerful stories deeply moved the audience, inspiring all the female employees to not just dream big, but to chase those goals with unwavering grit and determination.

The celebrations also featured some mesmerising cultural performances by RSB employees. Through creative storytelling, music, and dance, the performers brought immense emotion and vibrant life to the stage, beautifully mirroring the spirit of the movement.

Sharing his pride on the occasion, Mr. S.K. Behera, Vice Chairman, RSB Group, "At RSB, our philosophy is simple: talent and excellence have no gender. Our approach remains strictly gender-neutral, focusing entirely on merit and capability. However, for potential to truly flourish, the environment must be right. We stand absolutely committed to creating a safe, respectful, and deeply inclusive workspace where our women colleagues feel empowered to step out, break barriers, and confidently march toward their highest aspirations."
 

Launched four years ago under the leadership of Ms. Nirmala Behera, Ek Pahal has matured from a heartfelt internal initiative into a massive, transformative movement. Operating through four core pillars - Health & Hygiene, Safety, Learning & Development, and Community Service; the ecosystem continues to drive structural, holistic growth both within the organization and the wider community.

Reflecting on the evolution of the initiative and this year's theme, Ms. Nirmala Behera, Executive Director, HR & Branding, RSB Group, said, "Our theme this year, 'EK Pahal- Sapno Se Aage', is a powerful reminder that dreams are merely the starting line. Real empowerment begins when we move past the stage of just wishing for equality and step into the reality of executing those dreams with our own hands. I am immensely proud of our teams; the work done across our four pillars is no longer just reflected in dashboards, but lives in the daily confidence, resilience, and growth of our women colleagues."

The event concluded with a strong focus on future impact, recognizing outstanding contributions from the past year. The Community Initiative Pillar leaders were awarded the top honours for leading projects with deep social impact, while the Health & Hygiene Pillar leader was recognised as the runner-up for setting exceptional operational benchmarks.

With this fourth edition of Ek Pahal annual day celebration, RSB Group strongly reaffirms its commitment to building a purpose-driven corporate culture where individual dreams are nurtured into collective milestones, setting a benchmark for the manufacturing industry at large.

Eveready Industries India Ltd., the country's leading flashlight and battery brand, today announced the launch of its all-new Eveready Shor Torch DL190, a rugged, rechargeable, multi-utility torch equipped with an integrated 100 decibel animal alarm, powerful illumination and UV strobe functionality designed specifically to help farmers protect crops from animal intrusion during the night.

The Innovative Eveready Shor Torch DL190, helping farmers protect crops from animal intrusion with a powerful 100 dBA animal alarm

The launch of Shor Torch further strengthens Eveready's expanding rechargeable flashlight portfolio, reflecting the company's continued focus on developing innovative solutions that cater to evolving consumer needs and diverse usage occasions. Designed specifically for agricultural use, the Eveready Shor Torch, along with an integrated 100 dB animal alarm and UV strobe, features a powerful 5W front torch for long range visibility and a 3W side light to support farmers during nighttime farm surveillance. It is powered by a 3600 mAh rechargeable Li ion battery with Type C fast charging support, enabling reliable performance during prolonged farm usage.

Designed to withstand demanding rural usage conditions, the Eveready Shor Torch combines durability with functionality. The product features a powerful 1 km long-beam front torch with up to 5 hours of lighting time and integrated animal deterrence capabilities. The thoughtfully engineered design ensures dependable performance during extended outdoor usage under challenging field conditions.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Anirban Banerjee, Chief Executive Officer, Eveready Industries India Limited, said, "At Eveready, innovation has always been rooted in solving real consumer challenges. Farmers across the country face persistent crop losses due to animal intrusion, particularly during the night. The Shor Torch reflects our commitment to developing practical and relevant solutions for Indian consumers. By combining powerful illumination with an effective animal alarm and UV strobe functionality, we have created a unique product that can make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of farmers while helping them protect their livelihoods."

The Eveready Shor Torch has been developed keeping in mind the unique requirements of India's farming community, where protecting crops often extends well beyond daylight hours. During critical crop cycles such as sowing and harvesting, farmers routinely undertake nighttime field surveillance to safeguard cultivated land from animal intrusion. While flashlights have long been an essential tool for activities such as irrigation, fertilizer application, crop monitoring and harvesting after dark, keeping animals away from cultivated fields remains one of the biggest challenges they encounter.

Recognising this challenge, Eveready developed the Shor Torch as a practical, humane and non-intrusive solution for nighttime crop protection. Designed for use in open farmlands, where sound and light can travel over longer distances, the product helps farmers safeguard their crops more effectively during early morning and nighttime surveillance, without causing harm to animals.

The Eveready Shor Torch, an innovation at the grassroot level, addresses this challenge through a powerful 100 decibel alarm that emits a sharp warning sound, combined with a red UV strobe light. When directed towards approaching animals, the alarm and flashing light create sufficient disturbance to drive them away, helping protect crops.

Eveready has been actively expanding its rechargeable flashlight portfolio in line with evolving consumer needs and usage occasions. The launch of the Shor Torch further strengthens Eveready's growing portfolio of innovative flashlights. The portfolio also includes the Siren Torch with Safety Alarm, designed to empower women, children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities with an added sense of personal security. Additionally, Eveready offers a first-of-its-kind Hybrid Torch featuring patent-applied dual-powered operation through rechargeable and battery-powered modes, providing consumers with enhanced flexibility and reliability across varied usage situations.

All of Eveready’s flashlight manufacturing facilities follow stringent quality parameters and are Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certified. The certification reinforces Eveready's long-standing commitment to product quality, safety, reliability and adherence to stringent industry standards.

Driven by feature-led innovation, consumer-focused product development and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Eveready continues to strengthen its position as India's leading flashlight, battery and lighting solutions brand through products designed to address evolving consumer needs.

The Eveready Shor Torch DL190 will be available at Rs. 1,099 across leading retail outlets and e-commerce platforms.