The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council Awards were received by Mr. Sudhir Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, Frankfinn Group, from Mr. Rajan Bahadur, CEO, THSC

The institute was honoured for Highest Training Centre Affiliation, Private Funded Short-Term Training, and Highest Enrolment in Training of Trainers, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to skilling and training in the aviation and hospitality sector.

Mr. Rajan Bahadur, Chief Executive Officer of THSC, personally presented the awards to Mr. Sudhir Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer of Frankfinn Group, in front of an eminent gathering of industry leaders, government representatives and hospitality professionals.

The Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council recognised organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance in skilling and training across the tourism and hospitality ecosystem. Other award recipients at the conference included ITC Maurya New Delhi, Radisson Hotels, Sarovar Hotels and Compass Group, underscoring the calibre of institutions honoured alongside Frankfinn.

A Continuing Legacy of Excellence
This latest recognition adds to Frankfinn's long-standing association with THSC. The institute has previously received the Best Training Partner award from THSC on five occasions, in 2017-18, 2018-19, 2021-22, 2022-23 and 2023-24. Notably, in 2022-23, Frankfinn had also received three awards in a single year, a feat it has now repeated in 2026.

These accolades reflect the consistently high quality of training delivered by Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training through its network of training centres across India, including in smaller cities and towns, ensuring that quality aviation and hospitality education reaches aspiring students nationwide.

Incorporated in 1993, Frankfinn is a multinational company that celebrated 33 years of operations in 2026 and has announced ambitious plans for further expansion in the coming years.

Industry Partnerships and Training Infrastructure
Frankfinn has partnered with Air India to provide its students with detailed cabin service familiarisation training. On completion of their course, Frankfinn students receive a co-branded certificate from Air India, further strengthening their professional credentials.

Frankfinn training centres are equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, including well-equipped computer labs fitted with projectors and audiovisual aids, and classrooms designed to create a professional and conducive learning environment. Highly experienced trainers deliver top-notch instruction, and students are trained on the world's leading computerised reservation systems widely used across the airline, hotel and travel industries.

All Frankfinn courses are affiliated with the National Skill Development Corporation and the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council, ensuring that its curriculum meets national skilling standards.

Outstanding Placement Record
More than 10,000 Frankfinn students secured placements in the aviation, hospitality, travel and customer service industries in the past year alone, a testament to the calibre of training imparted by the institute. Frankfinn has been repeatedly featured in the Limca Book of Records for achieving the highest number of cabin crew placements year after year.

The highest salary package offered to a Frankfinn student currently stands at Rs. 2,45,000 per month. Frankfinn has also been the sole recruitment partner for the Emirates Group, including Emirates Airline, for an uninterrupted period of 14 years.

A Decade of Recognition
Frankfinn's achievements extend well beyond THSC. The institute has been awarded the Best Air Hostess Training Institute for eleven consecutive years by Assocham, and received the Assocham Gold Award for Best Higher Vocational Institute for Skill Development for four consecutive years between 2016 and 2019.

In 2021, Frankfinn received the award for Best Aviation Training Institute at the Assocham Knowledge Management Virtual Meet and Awards on Leadership Excellence. In 2019, the institute was felicitated for Outstanding Contribution in Cabin Crew Training by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and in January 2022, it was honoured as the Best Institute in Placement at the Assocham Education Excellence Summit cum Awards Ceremony.

Leadership Statement
“These three awards from THSC are a proud moment for the entire Frankfinn family. They reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class aviation and hospitality training to students across India, including in smaller towns and cities. We remain dedicated to building on this legacy and continuing to set new benchmarks in skill development for the aviation and hospitality industry,” said Mr. Sudhir Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, Frankfinn Group.

About Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training
Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training is a multinational company incorporated in 1993 and recognised as the World's No. 1 Air Hostess Training Institute. With a pan-India network of training centres, Frankfinn offers industry-aligned programmes in aviation, hospitality, travel and customer service, in partnership with organisations such as Air India and the Emirates Group. All Frankfinn courses are affiliated with the National Skill Development Corporation and the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council. The institute has been consistently recognised by leading industry bodies, including Assocham and the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, for excellence in training and placement.

Since inception, the fund has outperformed its benchmark, BSE 500 TRI, by 3.85 percentage points under the Regular Plan and 5.47 percentage points under the Direct Plan

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund follows a megatrend investing strategy, pairing this long-term lens with the freedom to invest across large cap, mid cap and small cap companies subject to minimum 65% investment in equity and equity-related instruments. The flagship fund of Bajaj Asset Management Limited (formerly known as Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Limited) completed three years since inception on 14 August 2026.

In its journey, the fund has regularly outperformed the benchmark. Since inception, the Regular Growth plan delivered 16.59% annualised returns and the Direct Growth plan delivered 18.21%, compared with 12.74% for its benchmark, BSE 500 TRI. Over the last year, the respective returns were 9.85% and 11.26%, against the benchmark’s 4.93%*.

The milestone marks three years of following structural change across sectors and company sizes.

*Source: Internal Analysis, MFI360 and Bloomberg. Data as of August 13, 2026. Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

What is a megatrend?

A megatrend is a deep and lasting change in how an economy or society works. It usually unfolds over many years, cuts across industries and can alter how businesses compete and how people live, work and consume. A trend may dominate headlines for a few quarters; a megatrend can reshape an economy for years.

For instance, digitisation has changed banking, shopping, entertainment, logistics and healthcare. Rising incomes and urbanisation can influence financial services, housing, travel and discretionary consumption. Manufacturing policies, cleaner energy and infrastructure development can open opportunities across industrial businesses and their supply chains.

These forces often reinforce one another. Electric mobility, for example, sits at the meeting point of technology, regulation, environmental priorities and consumer behaviour. Its effects can extend from vehicle makers to component suppliers and charging networks. Digital payments offer another example: smartphone adoption, affordable data, payment infrastructure and changing consumer habits have together altered how transactions are made.

Megatrend investing is therefore not one narrow sector call. It can cut across industries, markets and even geographies.

Six lenses for a changing economy

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund studies megatrends through its T.R.E.N.D.S. framework: Technological, Regulatory, Economic, Nature, Demographic and Social.

Each lens captures a different source of long-term change:

• Technological: Advances such as digitisation, automation and artificial intelligence can change how industries operate and deliver products or services.

• Regulatory: Policy and regulatory shifts, including manufacturing and infrastructure initiatives, can reshape industries or create new markets.

• Economic: Structural changes such as financialisation, rising consumption and infrastructure expansion can influence long-term business growth.

• Nature: Environmental priorities such as sustainability, clean energy and cleaner mobility are gaining momentum, and businesses responding to them may be aligned for future growth.

• Demographic: A large working-age population, rising incomes and urbanisation are supporting consumption and economic growth.

• Social: Evolving lifestyles and consumer behaviour, including urbanisation and the growing focus on health and wellness, are creating new patterns of demand across industries.

The portfolio process

Identifying a megatrend is the starting point. The next step is to determine whether that long-term change can translate into a viable opportunity at the company level. For fund managers, a company needs to meet the following parameters to be considered for the portfolio:

• It should be a beneficiary of the trend

• It should offer a monetizable opportunity

• It should have strong fundamentals

• It should be trading at favourable valuations

The investment process begins with a universe of roughly 1,100 stocks. Applying the megatrends lens narrows this to around 340 to 380 companies whose businesses may be positioned to participate in one or more of the structural shifts identified through the T.R.E.N.D.S. framework.

Top-down research examines how these shifts may affect economies, industries and value chains. Bottom-up analysis then assesses individual companies. The process also incorporates the AMC’s INQUBE philosophy, combining informational, quantitative and behavioural insights in investment decisions. From the screened universe, a portfolio of approximately 40 to 60* holdings may be constructed.

*The number of stocks mentioned is tentative and for understanding purposes only; the final portfolio may hold more or fewer names depending on prevailing market conditions. Source: Internal Analysis. The data provided in the communication is based on latest available information and is subject to change in future. The AMC is not responsible for any decision taken based on the data disclosed in the communication. 

Flexible approach

A megatrend does not arrive labelled large cap, mid cap or small cap. A large company may have the resources to scale a new market. A mid-sized business may gain share as an industry expands. A smaller company may own a specialised capability within a developing value chain.

A flexi cap mandate lets the fund manager follow opportunities without maintaining a fixed allocation across market-cap segments subject to minimum 65% investment in equity and equity related instruments. As of July 31, 2026, Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund held 44.17% in large cap companies, 23.02% in mid cap companies and 29.33% in small cap companies. The allocation reflects the opportunities identified through the investment process rather than a pre-set balance among the three market-cap segments.

The portfolio’s strategic choices extend beyond market cap allocation. Its active share against the BSE 500 TRI stood at 70% as of July 31, 2026. Active share measures how far a portfolio’s holdings and weights differ from its benchmark, offering an indication of how distinctly it is positioned.

Source: Internal Analysis | Active share is calculated vis-a-vis scheme benchmark i.e. BSE 500 TRI | Data as on July 31, 2026.

Conclusion

At three, Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund has established a distinct investment identity: megatrends provide the direction, while flexi cap investing provides the freedom to pursue their beneficiaries across company sizes and sectors.

For investors with a long horizon and the ability to accept equity market fluctuations, the fund brings several engines of structural change into one portfolio. Structural changes can advance unevenly, and the companies positioned to benefit from them can change over time. The fund’s flexi cap mandate allows the portfolio to adjust as those opportunity sets evolve.

Investors can invest in Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund through a lump-sum investment or a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). After completing the applicable KYC requirements and carefully reviewing the scheme-related documents, investors may invest through the official website of Bajaj Asset Management Limited, an authorised mutual fund distributor or an eligible third-party investment platform or app. Investors should consider their investment objectives, time horizon and risk appetite before investing.

Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund

For the performance of other schemes managed by the Fund Managers which have completed 1 year or more than 1 year since inception, please visit https://www.bajajamc.com/downloads?factsheet and download the latest Factsheet or click here.

Applications for the 10th N.S. Hema Memorial Awards, instituted by APD, are open until August 20, 2026

Carrying that vision forward, APD has announced that applications for the 10th edition of the N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are now open until August 20, 2026. The awards recognise organisations advancing disability inclusion across South India and Maharashtra.

Over the years, the awards have recognised organisations such as People with Hearing Impaired Network (PHIN), Saadhya Trust for Social Development, Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust, and Atchayam Trust, showcasing innovative, community-led models in disability inclusion.

This year introduces two award categories:

• Disability Inclusive Health

• Disability Inclusive Livelihood

With a total prize pool of Rs. 2.5 lakh, the awards go beyond financial recognition. Winners and selected high-potential organisations will gain access to strategic co-funding opportunities, capacity-building cohorts, and peer-learning networks designed to strengthen organisational resilience and amplify long-term impact.

“Organisations closest to the communities they serve often bring a deep understanding of what inclusion looks like in practice. Their work is shaped by lived realities, local needs and the aspirations of the people they work alongside. The N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are an opportunity to recognise this leadership and create pathways for organisations to access the resources, networks and opportunities they need to strengthen their impact,” said Sukanto Aich, CEO, Association of People with Disability (APD).

Applications are open to legally registered non-profit organisations (Trusts or Societies) that hold valid 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registrations, have 3–10 years of active field operations, an annual budget of up to Rs. 2.5 crore depending on the award category, and an active presence in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, or Maharashtra.

Entries will be evaluated by an independent jury on the basis of:

• Impact evidence

• Community-led model

• Innovation and scaling potential

• Governance practices

Nominate until August 20, 2026.

Apply here: events.apps.apd-india.org

For detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria, visit www.apd-india.org.

About the Association of People with Disability

APD is a pioneering non-profit organisation, established in 1959 by the late Ms N. S. Hema. APD has impacted over 6 lakh People with Disabilities from underprivileged communities from remote, rural, and poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Various programs by APD cover 18 out of 21 disabilities stated in the RPWD Act 2016. With a diverse and inclusive team of over 230 members (45% Women and 30% PwD’s), APD reaches out to over 60,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries annually. APD is managed by a professional team of developmental and technical experts overseen by an eminent Board of Governors and Trustees. The Association maintains the highest standards of governance, has been acknowledged by multiple donors and is accredited by independent agencies like the TISS, Credibility Alliance, RCI, and NIPMAN Foundation.

VELS Awards Rs. 3.5 Crore in Scholarships to 4,034 Meritorious Students at 'VELS Success Day 2026'

As part of the scholarship programme, this year, the university honoured 345 University Rank Holders, 849 students who secured positions among the top 10% of their respective programmes, 1,640 students who successfully completed SWAYAM and NPTEL courses, and 1,200 VELS scholarship beneficiaries. Altogether, 4,034 deserving students received scholarships and recognition during the event.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, VELS Group of Institutions, said that VELS Success Day is a celebration of determination, perseverance, and academic excellence. She stated that scholarships worth Rs. 3.5 crore had been awarded to encourage students who had gone beyond the ordinary in their pursuit of excellence.

She emphasised that "Success is not about being better than others; it is about becoming better than yourself every day." She urged students to strive for continuous self-improvement, reminding them that excellence is sustained only through consistency and dedication. Congratulating the awardees, she encouraged them to view the recognition as the beginning of greater achievements, advising them to continue learning, remain humble, and uphold the values that define true success.

Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. Krishna Balagurunathan, Chief Mentor & Associate Vice President – Early Careers, Hexaware Technologies, Chennai, inspired students to express gratitude to those who contributed to their success. He said that every achievement should first be dedicated to parents for their sacrifices, followed by teachers who shape young minds and friends who inspire individuals to become better every day.

Highlighting the qualities required to succeed in today's competitive world, he encouraged students to aspire to become the best versions of themselves rather than competing with others. He stressed that strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to express differing opinions respectfully are among the most valued attributes in the professional world. He further noted that organisations today increasingly recruit candidates based on their attitude in addition to technical competence and urged students to think big, remain optimistic, spread positivity, and become role models in society.

The programme was presided over by Dr. M. Bhaskaran, Vice-Chancellor (FAC), VISTAS; Dr. M. Chandrasekaran, Registrar, VISTAS, along with faculty members, parents, and students.

About VELS University
VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) continues to be recognised as one of the best deemed university in Chennai, distinguished by its prestigious NAAC A++ accreditation and UGC Category I status. 

Home to over 20,000 students and supported by a dedicated faculty strength of 1,220 members, VISTAS offers more than 150 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a wide spectrum of disciplines. These include Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Management, Law, Mass Communication, Maritime Studies, Aviation, Physiotherapy, and Computing Sciences, among others. With its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development, VISTAS remains a premier destination for quality higher education in India. 

For more information kindly visit: www.vistas.ac.in

Union Minister Lalan Singh lights the ceremonial lamp at Sustainable Agriculture Summit 2026, with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Kumar Jha and NDDB Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah

Organised by Sustainability Matters, IndiAgri and Alliance for Change, Transformation & Innovation (ACTION), the Summit emerged as a national platform for dialogue on the future of Indian agriculture, focusing on sustainability, climate resilience, innovation, rural entrepreneurship, food security, natural resource management and farmer prosperity.

In his keynote address, Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj emphasised that the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047 can only be achieved through a strong rural economy and empowered farmers. He highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen agriculture and allied sectors through scientific interventions, infrastructure development, value-chain enhancement, technology adoption and sustainable rural enterprises.

"For India to emerge as a developed nation by 2047, our farmers must be empowered and our rural economy must become stronger and more self-reliant. Agriculture and allied sectors will continue to play a central role in driving inclusive growth and prosperity," the Minister said.

The Summit brought together a distinguished gathering of leaders and stakeholders including Sanjay Kumar Jha, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Dr Meenesh C. Shah, Chairman, National Dairy Development Board (NDDB); Manoj Kumar Dubey, Chairman & Managing Director, Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC); Dr Rajendra Prasad, General Manager, SIDBI; Gajendra Kumar, Joint General Manager (Marketing), KRIBHCO; senior policymakers, researchers, industry leaders and representatives of farmer organisations and cooperatives.

Addressing the Summit, Sanjay Kumar Jha, MP (Rajya Sabha) said, "The future of Indian agriculture lies in creating integrated and diversified rural economies. Agriculture, horticulture, dairy, fisheries, water conservation and rural enterprises must work together to generate sustainable livelihoods and strengthen rural India. The vision of Krishi Samridhi 2047 requires collaborative action from governments, institutions, industry and farmers alike."

Dr Meenesh C. Shah, Chairman, NDDB said, "India's agricultural future depends on creating strong and sustainable rural ecosystems where productivity, value addition, institutions and innovation work together. Cooperatives have demonstrated the power of collective action, and partnerships across sectors will be critical in building a resilient and globally competitive agricultural economy."

"As India advances towards Viksit Bharat 2047, investments in infrastructure, connectivity, logistics and financing will play a critical role in transforming rural economies. Sustainable agricultural growth requires long-term institutional support, and platforms such as this Summit help bring together diverse stakeholders committed to that objective," opined Manoj Kumar Dubey, CMD, IRFC.

Dr Rajendra Prasad, General Manager, SIDBI, said, "Innovation, entrepreneurship and access to finance are vital pillars of a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem. Strengthening agri-enterprises, startups, farmer producer organisations and rural businesses will not only create employment but also unlock new opportunities for value creation and inclusive growth across rural India."

Gajendra Kumar, Jt GM (Marketing), KRIBHCO, highlighted the need to make agriculture more attractive and future-ready for younger generations. He said, "One of the biggest challenges before Indian agriculture today is that many young people are moving away from farming. Rural India has been transformed by the communication revolution, and agriculture must evolve accordingly. At the same time, challenges such as climate change and excessive use of fertilisers require collective solutions driven by innovation, sustainability and responsible resource management."

Speaking on the occasion, Dr K.C. Ravi, Director General, Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards, said, "Krishi Samridhi 2047 is not merely a vision for agricultural growth; it is a roadmap for building resilience across the entire rural ecosystem. Sustainability, technology, water security, market access and farmer-centric policies must work together to create long-term prosperity and strengthen India's food and economic security."

"The journey towards Krishi Samridhi 2047 requires policy continuity, institutional innovation and stronger convergence between government, industry, academia and farming communities. Agriculture today is no longer confined to food production alone; it is intrinsically linked to livelihoods, sustainability, climate resilience, water security and rural economic growth. Building a self-reliant agricultural ecosystem will require integrated solutions that are scalable, inclusive and future-ready." said Dr Jayadev Sarangi, IAS (Retd.), Former Secretary, Government of Delhi and Goa.

Dr Navneet Anand, Executive Director, Sustainability Matters, said, "The future of Indian agriculture will be defined by partnerships. Governments, financial institutions, industry, academia, startups and farmers must collaborate to build an ecosystem that is productive, sustainable, climate-resilient and economically rewarding. This Summit seeks to catalyse those partnerships and contribute meaningfully to India's journey towards Krishi Samridhi 2047."

The Summit featured high-level discussions on climate-smart agriculture, digital innovation, sustainable farming systems, water stewardship, agricultural financing, cooperative development, rural entrepreneurship, natural farming, technology adoption and emerging opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

A major highlight of the event was the National Sustainable Agriculture Awards 2026, which recognised exemplary contributions by farmers, cooperatives, agribusinesses, startups, institutions, government agencies and development organisations from across the country for advancing sustainability, innovation and inclusive growth in agriculture and allied sectors.

The Summit was supported by IRFC, SIDBI, COMFED, OMFED, HURL, KRIBHCO and SIRA Seeds, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening India's agricultural ecosystem and advancing the vision of a resilient, self-reliant and prosperous rural economy.

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.

Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards 2026

With over 3.2 million votes cast across 60 award categories and 316 nominees spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, wellness, personal care, bath & body, gifting, and beauty tools, this year's edition showcased the remarkable breadth and diversity of India's beauty landscape. The final winners were determined through a combination of consumer participation and evaluation by an esteemed jury, creating a benchmark where consumer conviction meets industry expertise.

Catch all the winners here: Winners

This year's winners paint a compelling picture of a beauty industry being reshaped by increasingly informed, ingredient-conscious and globally connected consumers. Performance-backed efficacy is redefining purchase decisions, prestige beauty continues its upward trajectory, and homegrown innovators are earning their place alongside global icons. From Best Homegrown Beauty Brand and Cult Classic to Iconic New Launch of the Year, New & Now, and Brand Campaign of the Year, this year's honours reflect the ideas, innovations and cultural moments that resonated most with India's beauty consumers.

The panel featured Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty; Nykaa's brand icon Sharvari; make-up & hair artist- Elton Fernandez; make-up artist, educator and founder of Mokae Beauty-Sandhya Shekhar; hair expert- Hiral Bhatia; dermatologist- Dr. Aanchal Panth (MBBS, MD); founder of NAKED Coffee and luxury content creator- Radhika Seth; creator- Ankush Bahuguna; beauty creator- Tarini Peshawaria; and Nandini Bhalla, Editor at The Word Magazine.

NBiB 2026 Jury

Commenting on the awards, Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, "The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have evolved into more than an annual celebration of product excellence. It reflects the changing aspirations of India's beauty consumers and the innovations redefining the industry. This year's winners show that consumers are rewarding efficacy, authenticity and innovation in equal measure, while homegrown and global brands continue to raise the bar together. We're proud that NBIB has become a platform where millions of consumers and industry experts collectively define the benchmark for beauty excellence in India."

What the winners reveal about the next wave in Indian beauty:

• Efficacy is the new beauty standard: Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer, Sky High Mascara, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser prove consumers are choosing products that consistently deliver results over fleeting trends.

• K-Beauty continues to dominate: Korean beauty brands emerged as standout winners across multiple categories, with Beauty of Joseon, LANEIGE, COSRX, TIRTIR, and Dr. Althea taking home multiple awards, reinforcing K-Beauty's growing influence across both skincare and makeup.

• Healthy skin leads every routine: Barrier-care favourites from CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, TONYMOLY, and Dot & Key reflect the growing focus on ingredient-led, skin-first beauty.

• Homegrown brands are rewriting the rules of beauty: Kay beauty, Maison Moi, Foxtale, WishCare, and indē wild continue to win alongside global beauty icons, showcasing the strength of Indian innovation.

• Hybrid beauty is redefining makeup: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation, Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer, NYX, and e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter highlight the growing demand for makeup that works like skincare.

• Luxury beauty is becoming increasingly mainstream: From Charlotte Tilbury and NARS to Yves Saint Laurent, Estée Lauder, CHANEL, Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Dyson, and Jo Malone London, consumers are increasingly investing in premium beauty experiences.

Discover the complete list of winners on nykaa.com, from breakthrough launches and cult favourites to timeless icons, and shop the products that have earned India's highest vote of confidence.

With a community of over 60 million consumers, a curated assortment spanning 4,000+ brands and 3 lakh+ products, Nykaa continues to shape how India discovers, experiences and shops beauty. The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have become an annual barometer of India's beauty evolution, capturing not only the products that are loved by consumers, but the ideas and innovations that will define tomorrow.

Explore the full list of winning products and celebrate your favourites and discover some new ones! All award-winning products are available for purchase on Nykaa.com, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the best in beauty as recognized by the most discerning judges & beauty aficionados themselves!

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.

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.

Marking the 80th year of India's Independence, MMTC-PAMP, India's only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery gold and silver refiner, today officially launched MMTC-PAMP 'Virasat- Celebrating 80th Year of India's Independence,' a limited-edition 10g commemorative gold coin crafted entirely from 999.9+ pure recycled gold, at Taj Mansingh, New Delhi. The coin was unveiled by Champion Mirabai Chanu, Olympic silver medallist and three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, who also became the first recipient of the commemorative edition in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to Indian sport and her role in inspiring millions of Indians.

Mr. Samit Guha, MD and CEO, MMTC-PAMP, unveils the Limited Edition 10gm Virasat Recycled Gold Coin and presents the first coin to CWG 2026 Gold Medalist Mirabai Chanu

Fresh from creating history by becoming the first Indian weightlifter to win three consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medals, Mirabai Chanu embodies the spirit of resilience, perseverance and excellence that has shaped India's journey over the last eight decades. By presenting the inaugural MMTC-PAMP Virasat coin to one of India's most celebrated sporting icons, MMTC-PAMP pays tribute not only to the nation's achievements but also to the individuals whose dedication continues to elevate India's standing on the global stage.

Crafted in 10 grams of 999.9+ fine (24K) recycled gold, the coin features a premium minted finish and is presented in MMTC-PAMP's tamper-proof packaging with certified purity authentication. Limited to only 8,000 pieces, the exclusive edition coin will be available through MMTC-PAMP retail stores, authorised channel partners and the company’s website.

Product Link: www.mmtcpamp.com/shop/gold/10-gm-gold-999-minted-coin-virasat

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Samit Guha, Managing Director & CEO, MMTC-PAMP said, "As India celebrates the 80th year of Independence, Virasat is our tribute to a nation that continues to inspire the world through its resilience, innovation and achievements. We are honoured to present the first MMTC-PAMP Virasat commemorative coin to Mirabai Chanu, whose remarkable journey embodies the determination and excellence that define modern India. Just as MMTC-PAMP is committed to building a more responsible and self-reliant precious metals ecosystem through sustainable practices such as gold recycling, Mirabai's relentless pursuit of excellence reflects the same spirit of commitment and dedication towards the nation. Through Virasat, we celebrate not only India's glorious past but also the people who continue to shape its future."

The launch reflects MMTC-PAMP's commitment to responsible sourcing while supporting the Government of India's broader efforts to reduce dependence on imported gold, conserve foreign exchange, and advance the Hon'ble Prime Minister's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

India remains one of the world's largest consumers of gold and imports over 90 per cent of its annual requirement. As demand for precious metals continues to rise, responsible recycling has emerged as a critical pillar in building a resilient and self-reliant ecosystem. By refining and reintroducing existing gold into the formal economy without compromising purity or quality, MMTC-PAMP is helping create a more sustainable supply chain while reducing dependence on imports. India's gold imports touched nearly USD 72 billion in FY2025-26, highlighting the growing importance of strengthening domestic recycling infrastructure.
 

The launch of Virasat further reinforces MMTC-PAMP's long-term commitment to creating an organised ecosystem for precious metals recycling in India. The company currently operates 17 gold recycling stores across the country and continues to expand responsible recycling infrastructure to make recycling more accessible and transparent. 
 

The product was unveiled in the presence of Mr. Samit Guha, Managing Director & CEO, MMTC-PAMP, along with Mr. Gaurav Nijhawan, Head of Marketing, MMTC-PAMP and Mr Kashish Vasishtha, DGM – Marketing, MMTC-PAMP.
 

Earlier this year, MMTC-PAMP also introduced the industry's first organised buyback programme for silver coins, bars and jewellery across select retail stores in India. The initiative enables consumers to securely sell their silver holdings through an organised channel while encouraging recycling and supporting a more circular economy for precious metals.
 

As India enters its ninth decade of Independence, MMTC-PAMP Virasat- Celebrating 80th Year of India's Independence stands as a timeless tribute to the nation's remarkable past, dynamic present and sustainable future. More than a commemorative collectible, the coin celebrates the enduring values of resilience, innovation and responsibility that continue to define India's progress.
 

Every MMTC-PAMP product undergoes a rigorous purification process to ensure the highest standards of purity and quality. Each product carries a unique identification number and is packaged in an Assayer-certified minted card, assuring authenticity and trust. Additionally, every product purchased from MMTC-PAMP offers positive weight tolerance, ensuring customers receive more than the stated weight and maximum value with every purchase.

About MMTC-PAMP
A joint venture between Switzerland-based bullion refinery, MKS PAMP SA, and MMTC Ltd., a Miniratna and Government of India Undertaking. MMTC-PAMP is the only LBMA-accredited gold & silver good delivery refiner in India. The company seamlessly marries Swiss excellence with Indian insights. MMTC-PAMP India Pvt. Ltd. is internationally recognized as an industry leader in bringing global standards of excellence to the Indian precious metals industry.
 

MMTC-PAMP has received several awards since its inception from local and global industry bodies for Refining, Brand and Sustainability. Notably, MMTC-PAMP is India's First Precious Metals Company to have Science-based Emissions Reduction Targets Approved by SBTI. Recognized by the Asia and India Book of Records, MMTC-PAMP is acclaimed as the country’s only brand providing the purest gold and silver coins and bars with 99.99%+ (999.9+) purity levels and positive weight tolerance to consumers. Adding to its laurels, MMTC-PAMP was honoured as India’s Most Trusted Brand of the Nation at The Brand Story- Indian Brand and Leadership Conclave & Awards, 2024.

www.mmtcpamp.com

Dr. Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, with fellow dignitaries at the 2nd Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards 2025

The theme draws on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for value addition in India's dairy sector, spotlighted recently through India's four-medal debut at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, and Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah's cooperative renaissance, which is adding 75,000 new dairy cooperatives under White Revolution 2.0 and 6,000 new fisheries cooperatives under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
 

The Summit is the ninth in a series of national and regional dialogues Sustainability Matters and IndiAgri have convened since 2024: two previous national editions in Delhi and six regional consultations across states including Bhopal, Chandigarh, Nagpur, Patna, Baraut and Alwar. Together, these editions have brought together over 1,000 delegates and 120+ speakers, spanning policymakers, scientists, cooperative leaders, industry executives, startups and farmers, and have generated 190+ documented best practices and award-winning initiatives from across India's agricultural ecosystem. Each edition has fed grassroots insights into formal policy recommendations submitted to central and state governments, positioning the platform as a sustained channel between the field and the policy table rather than a one-off conference.
 

"This platform exists because India's agricultural story cannot be told from one vantage point alone," said Dr Navneet Anand, Executive Director, Sustainability Matters. "Krishi Samriddhi 2047 brings dairy, fisheries and livestock into the same conversation as crops, inputs, technology and rural markets, because the transformation we are chasing runs across all of these value chains, not through any one of them in isolation."
 

The 3rd edition is supported by partners across sectors, including Indian Railway Finance Corporation (a Navratna CPSE), Bihar State Milk Co-operative Federation Limited (COMFED), Odisha Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation Limited, SIRA Seeds, Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL), Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), and Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO).
 

"Agriculture touches every one of us, whether we grow it, process it, fund it, regulate it, or simply eat it, and that shared stake is exactly why each of us carries a responsibility to be part of this discourse," said Dr K C Ravi, Director General, Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards. "The Summit exists to make that participation possible, bringing policymakers, cooperatives, scientists, industry and farmers to the same table so solutions are shaped collectively rather than in silos,” he added.
 

India's dairy output has grown 70% in eleven years - from 146 to 239 million tonnes - even as livestock and fisheries expand at nearly 7% and 8-9% a year, among the fastest-growing segments of the rural economy. Track 1 builds on this momentum, examining cooperative-led growth across dairy, nutrition, fisheries and livestock. Track 2 turns to the crops-and-value-chain economy - seeds and sustainable inputs, regenerative farming, and the technology and market infrastructure connecting farms to consumers.
 

The Summit is part of a continuing effort by Sustainability Matters and IndiAgri.in, India's leading digital platform for agricultural news and analysis, to drive sustained, solution-oriented conversations on the issues shaping Indian agriculture, from climate resilience to rural finance and cooperative governance, bringing diverse stakeholders into direct dialogue rather than parallel monologues.
 

The day includes an inaugural session and track-wise knowledge sessions, culminating in the Sustainable Agriculture Awards 2026, recognising individuals, institutions, cooperatives, companies and government bodies across 44 categories for measurable contributions to India's agricultural ecosystem.

Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center has been honoured as the "Premier Wellness Center in Asia" at the Asia Excellence & Leadership Awards 2026, marking a milestone in holistic wellness

The award was presented at the Asia Excellence & Leadership Awards 2026, organised by Insights Success and powered by the Insights Excellence Awards (IEA) 2026, during a grand ceremony held on July 24, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dwarka, New Delhi.
 

Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center has been honoured as the "Premier Wellness Center in Asia" at the Asia Excellence & Leadership Awards 2026, marking a milestone in holistic wellness

Renowned actress Bhagyashree Patwardhan presented the award as the Chief Guest in the presence of distinguished leaders from the healthcare, education, business, and corporate sectors.

The Asia Excellence & Leadership Awards recognise organisations and visionary leaders across Asia for their excellence, innovation, leadership, sustainability, and significant contribution to society. The recognition is conferred upon institutions that have set new benchmarks in quality, service, and transformative impact within their respective sectors.

Established under the visionary guidance of Padma Vibhushan Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, President of SDM Educational Society, Kshemavana has emerged as one of India's leading naturopathy and yoga-based wellness destinations. Spread across 23 acres of lush greenery on the outskirts of Bengaluru, the centre offers an integrated approach to healthcare through evidence-based naturopathy, yoga therapy, Ayurveda-inspired lifestyle practices, nutrition therapy, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and holistic wellness programmes designed to promote preventive healthcare and sustainable well-being.

Over the years, Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center has earned national recognition for its patient-centric care, personalised treatment protocols, experienced multidisciplinary medical professionals, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and commitment to scientific, drug-free healing. The institution has successfully helped thousands of individuals manage lifestyle disorders, stress-related illnesses, obesity, musculoskeletal conditions, metabolic disorders, and other chronic health concerns through non-pharmacological and integrative healthcare practices. It has also played a significant role in wellness education, corporate health initiatives, public awareness programmes, and research-driven holistic healthcare.

Receiving the recognition as "The Premier Wellness Center in Asia" reflects Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center’s unwavering commitment to excellence in holistic healthcare, innovation in wellness delivery, and its continuous efforts to position India's traditional systems of natural healing on the global wellness landscape.

Expressing his gratitude on the occasion, Dr. Narendra K. Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer, Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center, said, "This recognition is a proud milestone for the entire Kshemavana family. It reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class holistic healthcare rooted in India's timeless naturopathy and yoga traditions while embracing scientific evidence and global standards. We dedicate this honour to our visionary leader, Padma Vibhushan Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, whose guidance continues to inspire us to make preventive and lifestyle-based healthcare accessible to society. This award motivates us to further strengthen our mission of creating a healthier and happier world through natural healing."

The recognition further reinforces Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center’s vision of promoting integrative, preventive, and sustainable healthcare, while inspiring greater awareness of naturopathy and holistic wellness across Asia and beyond.

About Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center
Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center,  the flagship holistic wellness centre of SDM Educational Society, is one of India's leading destinations for naturopathy, yoga, lifestyle medicine, and integrative wellness. Located near Bengaluru amidst 23 acres of natural greenery, the institution offers comprehensive wellness programmes that combine evidence-based naturopathy, yoga, nutrition, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, and lifestyle modification therapies. With a strong focus on preventive healthcare, scientific natural healing, and patient-centred care, Kshemavana is committed to empowering individuals to achieve long-term health and well-being through sustainable lifestyle practices.

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.

5 Credit Profile Checks That Can Improve Financial Health

One of the easiest ways to assess overall credit health is by checking the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report, which brings together key details such as an individual's credit score, repayment history, credit utilisation, credit age and other credit-related information. Reviewing these insights regularly can help users monitor their credit health and work towards building a stronger credit profile.

Why maintaining a healthy credit profile matters

A credit profile provides an overview of an individual's borrowing and repayment behaviour. Lenders may consider this information, along with other eligibility criteria, when evaluating applications for loans, credit cards and other credit products.

A typical credit profile includes information such as:

• Credit score

• Repayment history

• Existing loans

• Credit card usage

• Credit enquiries

• Credit age

Monitoring these factors regularly helps individuals understand their credit health, identify areas that need attention and adopt better financial habits over time.

1. Monitor your credit score regularly

Knowing the current credit score is an important first step towards maintaining a healthy credit profile.

In India, credit scores generally range from 300 to 900, with higher scores typically reflecting stronger credit health. While lenders have their own eligibility criteria, maintaining a healthy credit score may improve eligibility for credit, along with factors such as income, repayment capacity and internal lending policies.

Individuals aiming for a good credit score in India should focus on responsible borrowing habits rather than quick fixes. Regularly checking the credit report allows users to monitor their credit score without affecting it and understand the factors that contribute to their overall credit health.

2. Stay consistent with repayments

Repayment history is one of the key factors that contributes to a healthy credit profile.

Missing EMIs or delaying credit card payments may negatively affect the credit score. Even after overdue amounts are cleared, repayment behaviour continues to remain part of an individual's credit history.

Simple habits that support timely repayments include:

• Setting up auto-debit instructions

• Paying EMIs before the due date

• Clearing at least the total amount due on credit cards

• Avoiding repeated late payments

Consistently making payments on time demonstrates responsible credit management and contributes to stronger credit health over time.

3. Keep credit utilisation under control

Credit utilisation refers to the percentage of the available credit limit that is currently being used.

Consistently high credit utilisation may indicate greater reliance on available credit and could influence a lender's assessment. Reducing outstanding balances and maintaining moderate credit utilisation can strengthen the overall credit profile.

4. Be selective when applying for new credit

Applying for several loans or credit cards within a short period can result in multiple hard enquiries.

While a single enquiry is generally not a concern, frequent credit applications over a short period may indicate a higher need for credit and could influence a lender's assessment.

To maintain a healthy credit profile, individuals should:

• Apply for credit only when required

• Avoid submitting multiple applications simultaneously

• Compare available credit options before applying

Being selective about new credit applications helps maintain a healthier credit profile over time.

5. Review your credit report for inaccuracies

A credit report may occasionally contain inaccuracies that should be reviewed and corrected promptly.

Reviewing the credit report regularly helps individuals identify discrepancies and initiate corrections wherever necessary.

How to check your credit score online

Checking a credit score online is quick and convenient with Bajaj Finance. Individuals can access their credit information by following these simple steps.

Step 1: Visit the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report page
Go to the official Bajaj Finance website and open the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report page. Select the option to check the credit score.

Step 2: Verify the registered mobile number
Enter the registered mobile number and complete OTP verification.

Step 3: Enter the required details
Provide details such as name, PAN, date of birth, email address, mobile number and PIN code.

Step 4: Access the credit score
Once the verification is complete, the available credit score is displayed on the screen.

Step 5: Review the detailed credit report
Review the report to understand repayment history, active credit accounts, recent enquiries and other credit-related information. The report can also be downloaded for future reference.

Tips to maintain a healthy credit profile

Good financial habits that support long-term credit health include:

• Pay every EMI and credit card bill on time.

• Keep credit utilisation under control.

• Apply for new credit only when necessary.

• Maintain older credit accounts, wherever possible.

• Monitor the credit report periodically.

• Resolve report discrepancies promptly.

Building a stronger credit profile

Building and maintaining a healthy credit profile is an ongoing process rather than a one-time exercise. Regularly reviewing credit information, making timely repayments and using credit responsibly can help individuals stay financially prepared for future borrowing needs.

The credit report offers valuable insights into credit score, repayment history, credit utilisation, credit age and other important aspects of credit health. By monitoring these factors consistently, individuals can work towards achieving a good credit score and make more informed financial decisions.

*Terms and conditions apply.

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.

Today marks that moment with the arrival of Hyeglo Beauty, a premium beauty brand built on one defining promise: Better Makeup, Built for Skin. Created for today's ingredient-conscious consumer, Hyeglo is reimagining makeup through skincare-first formulations that care for the skin as beautifully as they enhance it.

Kanupriya Ahluwalia, Founder of Hyeglobeauty

At its core is a simple philosophy: Better makeup, Built for Skin.

Not beauty that follows trends. Beauty that follows intention.

Founded by Kanupriya Ahluwalia, whose decade-long journey across India's beauty industry has shaped some of the country's most celebrated beauty brands, Hyeglo is the culmination of years spent understanding the modern consumer one who no longer separates skincare from makeup, efficacy from elegance, or  premium from purpose. With an MBA in  premium Brand Management and a career dedicated to building beauty brands from the ground up, Ahluwalia envisioned a beauty house that reflects the intelligence of today's woman.

"Beauty has evolved. Women understand ingredients, they understand formulations, and they expect more from the products they choose. Hyeglo was created for this generation, one that values intention as much as aesthetics. We don't believe makeup should simply sit on the skin; we believe it should work in harmony with it. That philosophy became Beauty with Brains," Kanupriya Ahluwalia, Founder & CEO, Hyeglo Beauty.

The world of Hyeglo is built around a deliberate duality.

Its signature pink reflects confidence, individuality and the quiet joy of self-expression. Silver represents precision, innovation and the scientific discipline behind every formulation. Together, they express the essence of the brand, a meeting point between emotion and intelligence, glamour and efficacy,  premium and credibility. Every detail, from product architecture to packaging, has been considered through this lens.

Nothing at Hyeglo exists without purpose.

Every formulation begins with research. Every ingredient is selected with intention. Every launch is introduced only when it contributes something meaningful to the evolving beauty conversation. Rather than following the cadence of trend-driven beauty, Hyeglo embraces restraint, creating products designed to become permanent fixtures in a woman's routine rather than fleeting moments in her collection. Innovation is not treated as novelty, but as responsibility.

The brand arrives as beauty enters a new era, one defined by informed consumers, ingredient transparency and the convergence of skincare and makeup. Hyeglo responds to this shift with formulations that are clinically informed, sensorially refined and uncompromising in performance, offering a vision of  premiumness that is both intelligent and deeply considered.

That philosophy has already found early recognition. Within weeks of launch, Hyeglo's Skin Tint received the Most Innovative Product of the Year award, while strong organic repeat purchases reflected a growing appetite for a more thoughtful approach to beauty.

Looking ahead, Hyeglo Beauty envisions becoming an Indian  premium house with global resonance, one that quietly reshapes expectations of modern makeup through craftsmanship, science and uncompromising quality. The ambition is not simply to build products, but to create a lasting beauty institution defined by purpose, precision and enduring design.

About Hyeglo Beauty
Hyeglo Beauty is India's first intelligent  premium beauty house. Founded by Kanupriya Ahluwalia, the brand is built on the philosophy of Better makeup, Built for Skin and Beauty with Brains creating skincare-informed makeup through clinically driven formulations, thoughtful innovation and elevated design. Every product is intentionally crafted to unite performance, sensorial  premium and modern simplicity, establishing a new language for beauty that is intelligent, purposeful and enduring.

Panasonic Washing Machines in 2026: Five Models with AI Connectivity, Built-In Heaters, and Smart Fabric Care

After narrowing down the right capacity and features, Panasonic washing machines can be compared on Bajaj Mall before purchase at a nearby Bajaj Finance partner store. The Easy EMI Loan offers financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh with repayment tenures from 3 to 60 months, while the Insta EMI Card provides a credit limit of up to Rs. 3 lakh. Select models may also be available with zero down payment offers. Both financing options require the buyer to be physically present at a partner store to apply.

Top 5 Panasonic washing machines with latest features in 2026

From AI-powered connectivity to built-in heaters and gentle fabric care, these five Panasonic washing machines cover a range of household sizes and laundry needs.

Panasonic NA-F65LF3CRB

Price: Rs. 23,500 | Capacity: 6.5 kg | Type: Fully Automatic Top Load
Why it works: A practical entry into Panasonic's fully automatic range, this model suits couples and small households. Its 5 Star rating supports lower electricity consumption, while Active Foam Wash improves detergent penetration for effective stain removal. Drynamic Spin removes more water after washing to reduce drying time, and 12 wash programmes cover everyday fabrics and delicates.

Panasonic NA-F70CH4CRB

Price: Rs. 24,500 | Capacity: 7 kg | Type: Fully Automatic Top Load
Why it works: This model adds a built-in heater for hot water washing, StainMaster+ for stain treatment, and MirAIe connectivity for smartphone control. Fifteen wash programmes provide flexibility across fabrics, while the 5 Star rating and 7 kg capacity make it suitable for small families.

Pro tip: MirAIe allows users to schedule washes remotely and receive maintenance alerts, making it worth setting up from the start.

Panasonic NA-F80CH4CRB

Price: Rs. 27,400 | Capacity: 8 kg | Type: Fully Automatic Top Load
Why it works: This 8 kg model combines a built-in heater, StainMaster+, MirAIe, and Drynamic Spin. The larger drum accommodates towels, bedsheets, and regular family loads, while the 5 Star rating supports efficient daily use. It is a practical choice for families of three to four seeking smart connectivity and hot water washing.

Panasonic NA-F100VF1CB

Price: Rs. 41,400 | Capacity: 10 kg | Type: Fully Automatic Top Load
Why it works: Designed for larger households, this model combines a 10 kg drum with Gentle Kizukai Wash for fabric care. Drynamic Spin reduces residual water to shorten drying time, while 15 wash programmes handle varied laundry requirements. A 5 Star rating adds energy efficiency for households running frequent, heavy loads.

Panasonic NA-149MR2L01

Price: Rs. 50,500 | Capacity: 9 kg | Type: Fully Automatic Front Load
Why it works: This front loader combines efficient washing with Panasonic's Gentle Kizukai Wash Lite for fabric care. Quick 15 handles lightly soiled clothes in 15 minutes, while Baby Care provides a dedicated programme for infant clothing. MirAIe enables remote monitoring and scheduling, and the 5 Star rating supports efficient regular use.

How to buy a Panasonic washing machine from a Bajaj Finance partner store?

Splitting the cost of a new washing machine into monthly instalments makes the upgrade significantly more manageable. Shoppers can follow these steps to complete the purchase:

1. Browse on Bajaj Mall: Compare Panasonic washing machine models by capacity, type, key features, and price before visiting a store

2. Check pre-approved eligibility: Verify the pre-approved loan limit on the Bajaj Finance website using a registered mobile number and OTP verification

3. Find a partner store: Shortlisted models can be evaluated at 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finance partner stores across 4,000+ cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales

4. Check the model in person: In-store staff can assist with comparing wash programmes, drum capacity, and smart features across models

5. Choose an EMI plan: Financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh is available through the Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan or Insta EMI Card, with zero down payment on select models and tenures from 3 to 60 months

6. Complete the purchase: Once approved, the transaction is processed immediately and the washing machine can be taken home the same day

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.

Amity Global School A Level Cambridge

The introduction of Cambridge A Level gives students the flexibility to choose the curriculum that best aligns with their interests, strengths and future aspirations. Offered by Cambridge International Education, Cambridge A Level is one of the world's most respected pre-university qualifications. The programme offers flexible subject combinations, in-depth subject specialisation, and fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent learning.

Building on an 18-years legacy of academic excellence in IBDP and IGCSE, Amity continues to broaden opportunities for future-ready learners.

Dr. (Mrs.) Amita Chauhan, Chairperson, Amity Group of Schools, said, "At Amity, we believe every child deserves an education that aligns with their aspirations and potential. The introduction of Cambridge A Level alongside the IB Diploma Programme reflects our commitment to offering globally benchmarked education and meaningful academic choices. By providing students with the flexibility to choose between two internationally acclaimed curricula, we are empowering them to pursue their ambitions with confidence while preparing them for future success."

A key advantage for students in India is the March examination series, which allows them to prepare for and appear in competitive entrance examinations such as IIT-JEE, NEET, CUET, IPMAT, and others. Furthermore, results announced in mid-May enable students to plan their next academic steps.

Students can now choose between:

• Cambridge A Level

• International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)

This initiative expands academic choices, enabling students to pursue the pathway that best aligns with their aspirations.

Boult Earbuds in India 2026: Five Reasons They Are the Smartest Budget Pick

After shortlisting a suitable Boult earbud model, shoppers can browse options on Bajaj Mall and compare battery life, calling features, gaming modes, and prices before visiting a Bajaj Finance partner store. A Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan offers financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh with repayment tenures from 3 to 60 months, while the Insta EMI Card provides a reusable credit limit of up to Rs. 3 lakh with zero annual fee. Select models may also be available with a zero down payment offer. Both financing options require shoppers to be physically present at a partner store to apply.

What makes Boult earbuds worth buying in 2026?

From long battery life to gaming-friendly features, Boult earbuds pack several premium features into accessible price points.

1. Long battery life for uninterrupted entertainment

Several Boult models offer up to 60 hours of total playback with the charging case. Fast charging delivers hours of listening time in just a few minutes -- useful for commuters, students, and professionals who cannot afford frequent recharging breaks.

2. Powerful bass and immersive sound

Boult earbuds use large dynamic drivers, including 13 mm BoomX drivers on several models, tuned for punchy bass and clear vocals. The sound profile suits music, movies, and podcasts without paying a premium price.

3. Low-latency mode for smoother gaming and streaming

Many Boult earbuds feature Combat Mode with latency as low as 45 ms, reducing the delay between on-screen action and audio output for a more responsive gaming experience and better lip-sync during video streaming.

4. ENC-powered calling with dependable wireless connectivity

Boult integrates Environmental Noise Cancellation across several models to reduce background noise during calls. Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4 on many recent models adds stable connectivity, faster pairing, and reliable everyday performance.

5. Wide range of affordable options

Boult earbuds are priced from under Rs. 1,000 to around Rs. 1,800, with ENC, low-latency gaming mode, large dynamic drivers, and long battery life available across the range.

Best Boult earbuds in the affordable segment in 2026

The models below highlight some of Boult’s best affordable earbuds in 2026, compared by battery life, audio, calling, and gaming features.

Boult W20
Price: Rs. 899

Why it works: Features 13 mm BoomX drivers, up to 32 hours of total playback, Zen ENC for clearer calls, and a 45 ms Combat Mode for gaming and streaming.

Boult Z40
Price: Rs. 1,099

Why it works: Offers up to 60 hours of total playback, 10 mm BoomX drivers, Zen ENC, adaptive low-latency mode, and fast charging that delivers around 100 minutes of playback from a 10-minute charge.

Boult Z40 Pro
Price: Rs. 1,299

Why it works: Delivers up to 100 hours of playback, Zen Quad Mic ENC for clearer conversations, Bluetooth 5.3, and 45 ms low-latency mode for gaming and entertainment.

Boult Klarity 4
Price: Rs. 1,299

Why it works: Brings active noise cancellation and quad microphones to the affordable segment, with Bluetooth 5.4 for improved wireless stability and a more immersive listening experience.

Boult x Mustang Torq
Price: Rs. 1,799

Why it works: Distinctive styling with LED lighting effects, up to 60 hours of playback, Bluetooth 5.4, 45 ms Combat Mode, Boult Amp app connectivity, and fast charging.

How to buy Boult earbuds from a Bajaj Finance partner store

Splitting the cost of a new earbuds into monthly instalments makes the upgrade significantly more manageable. Shoppers can follow these steps to complete the purchase:

1. Browse on Bajaj Mall: Compare earbuds brands across price segments by battery life, calling features, and gaming mode before visiting a store

2. Find a partner store: Visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finance partner stores across 4,000+ cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales

3. Check in person: Evaluate fit, comfort, and available models with in-store staff before deciding

4. Choose an EMI plan: Financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh is available through the Easy EMI Loan or Insta EMI Card, with zero down payment on select models and tenures from 3 to 60 months

5. Complete the purchase: Once approved, the transaction is processed immediately and the earbuds can be taken home the same day

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.

VAHDAM® India Ranks Among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces 2026

This prestigious recognition underscores VAHDAM® India’s unwavering commitment to fostering a progressive, people-first workplace culture. With a strong focus on empowering employees through continuous learning, leadership development, transparent leadership, and meaningful ownership, the company continues to set new benchmarks in employee experience and organizational excellence.

VAHDAM® India’s journey reflects sustained progress over the years, moving from Rank 71 among India’s Top Workplaces in 2024, to Rank 17 in 2025, and now securing a place among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces in 2026. This consistent upward trajectory reflects the trust, engagement, and shared purpose that continue to define the company’s culture.

Adding to this milestone, VAHDAM® India has also been recognized among India’s Best Workplaces™ in FMCG 2026, India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2026, and Best Workplaces in Manufacturing 2026. These accolades build upon the company’s previous recognitions, including Best Workplaces for Women, Best Workplaces in Asia, Best Workplaces for Millennials, and Best Workplaces in FMCG, reflecting a sustained commitment to creating an exceptional workplace rather than a one-time achievement.

Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO, VAHDAM® India, said, “This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people who make VAHDAM® what it is today. Our journey from Rank 71 to Rank 17 and now among India’s Top 5 Great Workplaces demonstrates what can be achieved when people feel trusted, empowered, and inspired by a shared purpose. From the very beginning, we’ve believed that building a truly global brand from India starts with building a workplace where people can do their best work and grow alongside the business. As we continue to scale globally, nurturing a culture rooted in ownership, innovation, and continuous learning remains at the heart of everything we do.”

Kalpesh Tiwari, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), VAHDAM® India, added, “We’re proud to be recognized among India’s leading workplaces once again. At VAHDAM®, our culture is built on collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth. We remain committed to investing in our people by strengthening leadership capabilities, fostering learning and wellbeing, and creating opportunities for every individual to thrive. This recognition reflects our belief that when our people succeed, the business succeeds with them.”

The recognition comes as part of a rigorous evaluation conducted by Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, which identifies organizations that create exceptional employee experiences through trust, pride, and camaraderie. VAHDAM® India continues to be recognized for its inclusive leadership, dynamic work environment, and people-centric culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

About VAHDAM® India

Founded in 2015 by Bala Sarda, VAHDAM® India is on a mission to build a homegrown Indian brand for the world. With direct sourcing from farms and estates across India, in-house manufacturing at its 100,000 sq. ft. BRC-certified facility, and a strong presence across more than 140 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, and Europe, VAHDAM® has grown into a leading global wellness brand.

Backed by strong customer love and organic endorsements from global icons like Oprah Winfrey, Mariah Carey, and Martha Stewart, VAHDAM® has raised over Rs 290 crore in funding. The company is Certified Plastic Neutral and Climate Neutral, and contributes 1% of its revenue towards supporting the education of tea growers’ children through Digital Learning Centres and scholarships.

Learn more at www.vahdam.in and follow VAHDAM® India on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The campaign aims to help customers finance both planned and unexpected expenses, including home renovation, higher education, weddings, travel, and medical emergencies. With minimal documentation, collateral-free borrowing, and a fully digital application journey, the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers a convenient solution for customers looking for quick and flexible financing.

Attractive rewards during Loan Fest 2026

As part of Loan Fest 2026, eligible customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period may receive an exclusive reward bundle. The bundle has been curated to provide additional value by combining entertainment, dining, music, and lifestyle benefits alongside the loan. These rewards are available only to eligible customers and are subject to the applicable campaign 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

The exclusive rewards complement the standard features of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan, making the borrowing experience more rewarding during the campaign period.

Why apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online?

Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online enables customers to complete the borrowing process conveniently without visiting a branch. The end-to-end digital application journey requires minimal documentation and allows eligible customers to check their loan offer, complete the application, and submit the required details online.

Eligible applicants may receive quick approval, and funds can be disbursed within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification. The digital process is designed to provide customers with a faster and more convenient borrowing experience.

Flexible borrowing with repayment tenure of up to 108 months

One of the key highlights of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is the flexible repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months.

The extended tenure gives customers greater flexibility to choose a repayment schedule that suits their financial goals and monthly budget. A longer repayment period may help reduce monthly EMIs compared with a shorter tenure for the same loan amount, enabling borrowers to manage larger financial commitments more comfortably.

The personal loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30% per annum, depending on factors such as the customer's eligibility, credit profile, income, and internal assessment.

Features of Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to support a wide range of personal financial requirements while offering a convenient borrowing experience.

Key features include:

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

• Repayment tenure from 12 months to 108 months

• Personal loan interest rate from 10% to 30% per annum

• Collateral-free loan

• Quick approval for eligible applicants

• Funds disbursed within 24 hours*

• Minimal documentation

• Fully digital application process

These features enable customers to borrow according to their financial requirements while choosing a repayment option that aligns with their budget.

Estimate your EMI before applying

Customers can use the personal loan EMI calculator available on the Bajaj Finance website before submitting an application. The calculator helps customers estimate monthly EMIs based on the selected loan amount, applicable interest rate, and repayment tenure.

It also enables customers to compare different repayment options, understand their repayment commitments, and make informed borrowing decisions before applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan.

How to apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online

Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is simple and can be completed in a few steps:

1. Visit the website: Customers begin by visiting the Bajaj Finance website and navigating to the Personal Loan page.

2. Check loan eligibility: Customers enter the required loan amount and select the preferred repayment tenure. They then click "CHECK LOAN OFFER".

3. Enter personal details: Customers provide their personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer.

4. Review the loan offer: Customers review the available loan offer and may adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure based on their requirements.

5. Complete KYC verification: Customers complete the KYC process and verify their bank account details to facilitate disbursal.

6. Application assessment: The application is submitted for assessment, following which a loan specialist contacts the customer regarding the next steps in the process.

Eligible applicants may receive funds within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification.

A rewarding digital borrowing experience

Loan Fest 2026 reflects Bajaj Finance's continued focus on providing customer-centric lending solutions through a seamless digital experience. By combining attractive rewards with flexible repayment tenure, competitive personal loan interest rate options, collateral-free borrowing, and quick access to funds, the campaign provides additional value for eligible customers applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan online.

Eligible customers can visit the Bajaj Finance website to check their loan offer and apply online during the Loan Fest campaign period.

Terms and conditions apply*

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.

Cashfree Payments, India’s leading AI-native payments company, today announced it is offering 0% payment gateway fees for all new businesses signing up on its platform, on the first Rs. 20 lakh of Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) until 31st March 2027. The offer targets early-stage and growing sellers across their own online channels.

Offer aims to provide a launchpad to SMBs ahead of the festive season

Through this offer, Cashfree Payments aims to give businesses a genuine launchpad ahead of the festive season. This period is when most small businesses do the bulk of their annual business, but it typically comes with its own cost pressures. Discounts and offers eat into margins just as sales peak, and payment gateway fees eat into that margin further. By removing its own fee from this window entirely, Cashfree is handing sellers back real margin and cash they can redirect into inventory, ads, or logistics instead.

Akash Sinha, Co-founder & CEO of Cashfree Payments, said, "An average SMB or D2C business makes 40% of their annual sales during the festive season. Getting the payments layer right during these weeks matters more than at any other point in the year. We've also seen that 90% of new sellers signing up ahead of the season record a GMV under ₹20 lakh during the entire period, which means this offer effectively covers their entire festive run. That's significant breathing room for a business to put money into offers, inventory, or wherever it's needed most. This is the kind of launchpad we want every SMB to have with us."

Alongside the fee waiver, new merchants can go live on Cashfree within minutes of signing up, against the industry norm of multiple days. They also get next-day settlement, against the standard two-day cycle, improving cashflow to fund the next round of ads or restocking during peak sale days. Every merchant onboarding under the offer is assigned a dedicated account manager from the point of signup, so sellers get support during the critical sale period. Taken together, the offer combines zero-cost onboarding with the fastest go-live and settlement cycle available to SMBs in India today, making it the strongest festive-season offers in the industry.

Businesses looking to go live ahead of the festive season can sign up on Cashfree Payments at cashfree.com to claim the 0% fee offer before it ends on 31st March 2027.

About Cashfree Payments

Founded in 2015, Cashfree Payments is India's largest payments platform, processing over USD 80 billion in transactions annually for more than a million businesses–from high-growth startups, ecommerce & D2C brands, SMBs, and enterprises.

Businesses use Cashfree Payments to collect payments across 180+ payment modes, provide seamless one-click checkout to their customers to improve conversions, and conduct cross-border payments across 176+ countries and 140+ currencies. Built for scale, Cashfree’s infrastructure handles an industry-leading 12,000 transactions per second, processing peak volumes without friction.

Alongside payments, Cashfree Payments offers Secure ID, an identity verification stack with a comprehensive suite of APIs and KYC components. Secure ID enables fintechs and startups to streamline compliant onboarding and KYC flows by minimising user inputs, thus reducing drop-offs, intelligently verifying identity documents, and detecting fraud and anomalies with high accuracy.

Cashfree Payments is India’s first AI-native payments platform, enabling AI agents to process invoices and conduct payments autonomously through its MCP server, and allowing businesses to embed payments natively within AI chatbots through Cashfree Here.

The company was one of the first fintech companies to hold all three RBI licenses of Payment Aggregator (PA), Payment Aggregator-Cross Border (PA-CB), and Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI). Cashfree Payments is backed by Silicon Valley investor Y Combinator, Apis Partners, State Bank of India (SBI), KRAFTON, and was incubated by PayPal.

The RAG Holdings Team celebrates its Great Place to Work Certification, recognizing a workplace culture built on trust, collaboration and shared success

Awarded entirely on confidential employee feedback, the Great Place to Work Certification recognizes organizations that consistently foster trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and professional growth.

For RAG Holdings, this recognition represents more than a workplace achievement—it reflects a philosophy that has guided the organization since its inception: Building great businesses starts with great people.

As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading destinations for entrepreneurship, innovation, and foreign investment, RAG Holdings believes that exceptional businesses are built on two foundations: an environment where companies can thrive and a culture where people can flourish.

Today, RAG Holdings has evolved beyond traditional business setup by creating a comprehensive business growth ecosystem. Through its network of premium business centres and flexible office spaces across Dubai, combined with integrated corporate services, RAG empowers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and multinational organizations with everything they need to establish, operate and expand successfully in the UAE.

Its ecosystem includes premium office spaces, coworking environments, meeting facilities, Mainland and Free Zone company formation, PRO services, Golden Visa support, accounting and bookkeeping, corporate compliance, trademark registration, and strategic business advisory-all delivered through a seamless, client-centric experience.

“At RAG Holdings, we have always believed that our greatest investment is our people. This certification is particularly meaningful because it comes directly from the voices of our employees. It reflects the culture we have built together-one founded on trust, collaboration, learning and shared success. As we continue expanding our Business Growth Ecosystem and supporting entrepreneurs from around the world, our people will remain our greatest strength.” Rassal Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, RAG Holdings.

The Great Place to Work® Certification™ marks another significant milestone in RAG Holdings' journey as it continues to redefine how businesses establish and grow in the UAE.

More than a provider of business services, RAG Holdings has built an integrated ecosystem that supports businesses throughout every stage of their journey, from securing premium office infrastructure and launching operations to managing compliance, accessing strategic advisory, expanding into new markets and building long-term business success.

The milestone was celebrated with employees, founder & CEO Rassal Ahmed and the leadership team, recognizing the people whose passion and dedication continue to drive the organization forward. The celebration was further made memorable with a congratulatory message from Dr. Shashi Tharoor to the entire RAG team.

The company believes that exceptional employee experiences create exceptional client experiences. By continuously investing in its people, leadership, and workplace culture, RAG Holdings strengthens its ability to deliver outstanding service while contributing to Dubai's vision of becoming the world's preferred destination for entrepreneurs and global businesses.

As RAG Holdings continues its regional expansion, the company remains committed to attracting exceptional talent, developing future leaders and building a workplace culture that inspires innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth.

About RAG Holdings

RAG Holdings is a leading business growth ecosystem enabling entrepreneurs and enterprises to establish, operate and scale in the Dubai, India, Qatar & Singapore.

At the heart of its ecosystem are three flagship business centres across Dubai:

• RAG Global Business Hub – Al Qusais

• RAG Biz HQ – Sheikh Zayed Road

• RAG Tower – Al Barsha

Together, these flagship business centres provide premium office spaces, flexible workspaces, coworking environments, meeting facilities and business infrastructure designed to help entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and multinational companies build a strong presence in the UAE.

Complementing its workspace ecosystem, RAG delivers an integrated portfolio of business solutions including Mainland and Free Zone company formation, PRO services, Golden Visa solutions, accounting and bookkeeping, corporate compliance, trademark registration and strategic business advisory,providing everything businesses need to establish, operate and grow under one roof.

Driven by innovation, operational excellence and a people-first philosophy, RAG Holdings is redefining how entrepreneurs and enterprises build, grow and expand in one of the world's most dynamic business destinations.

About Great Place to Work®

Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviours proven to drive business performance. Great Place to Work® Certification™ is awarded based entirely on confidential employee feedback and is recognised globally as one of the most credible employer recognitions.

Bangalore Watch Company - Peninsula Carbon

Following its debut at the GPHG in 2025, the brand returns this year with the Peninsula Carbon, introducing a world-first material innovation in mechanical watchmaking.

A first in the world, the Peninsula Carbon uses carbon captured from our atmosphere as the dial material. The brand has developed a proprietary material called ReforgeCarbon™ using industrial waste and atmospheric pollutants.

“This is a proud milestone for us,” said Nirupesh Joshi, Co-Founder of Bangalore Watch Company. “Last year, our participation at the GPHG was an important moment for Indian watchmaking. We were the first independent watch brand from India to be on the list. Returning for a second consecutive year is both encouraging and humbling. It reinforces our belief that contemporary stories from India can find appreciation around the world, when paired with thoughtful design and world-class craftsmanship.”

Inspired by India's rapidly growing cities, the Peninsula Carbon explores the relationship between human ambition, urban growth, and the traces they leave behind. Through ReforgeCarbon™, the watch offers a distinctly contemporary perspective on modern India.

In addition to the innovative dial material, the watch carries a 200 Meter water-tight case, a Swiss automatic movement for high-accuracy, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, making it fit for the same standards that would apply for luxury Swiss watchmaking.

The watch also features a display inspired by the Air Quality Index (AQI), replacing the traditional minute track with a scale that serves as a subtle reminder of the relationship between urban growth and its consequences.

“We have always believed that meaningful watchmaking begins with meaningful stories,” said Mercy Amalraj, Co-Founder of Bangalore Watch Company. “The Peninsula Carbon reflects a subject that is relevant not just to India, but to the world. By combining material innovation with a distinctly Indian perspective, we wanted to create a watch that remains true to our vision of bringing modern storytelling to high-quality watchmaking.”

Established in Geneva, Switzerland, the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève is considered the watch industry's highest distinction. Each year, an international jury evaluates watches from some of the world's most respected brands, recognizing excellence in design, innovation, engineering, and craftsmanship.

“India is becoming an increasingly important market for luxury watches,” added Joshi. “I believe India should not only be viewed as a consumer of luxury watches, but also as a place capable of producing brands that can be appreciated globally for our storytelling, design, and craftsmanship. This is perhaps the finest example of that thesis.”

About Bangalore Watch Company™
Founded in 2018, Bangalore Watch Company™ creates high-quality mechanical watches that tell stories of a 21st-century India. Drawing inspiration from Aviation, Cricket, Space, and the Great Outdoors, each collection captures modern Indian narratives that go far beyond stereotypes.

With several firsts to its name including watches made from recovered fighter planes and aircraft carrier materials, India’s first watch qualified for Spaceflight, and a proprietary Cerasteel™ material that is a fusion of Steel and Ceramic, the brand blends storytelling with technical innovation and contemporary design. Recognised by leading global publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, and Hodinkee for its originality and craftsmanship, Bangalore Watch Company™ stands at the forefront of modern Indian watchmaking.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Nirupesh Joshi and Mercy Amalraj who left their tech careers overseas to pursue a passion for modern Indian storytelling, the brand has built a quiet but enthusiastic following with customers in over 30 countries.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) has been ranked among India's Top 20 Most Valuable Brands in the Brand Finance India 100 Rankings 2026, reaffirming the Company's strong brand equity and leadership in the country's energy sector.
 

Compiled by Brand Finance, one of the world's leading independent brand valuation consultancies, the annual rankings evaluate brands using the internationally recognised Royalty Relief methodology. The assessment measures brand value by considering financial performance, brand strength, and consumer perception, making it one of the most credible global benchmarks for brand valuation.
 

HPCL's inclusion among India's Top 20 Most Valuable Brands reflects the Company's sustained focus on operational excellence, customer-centric innovation, and delivering reliable energy solutions. The Company had also featured among the Top 20 Most Valuable Brands in the 2025 rankings, demonstrating the consistency and resilience of its brand.
 

As India accelerates its energy transition, HPCL continues to strengthen its portfolio through investments in cleaner energy, digital transformation, and technology-driven solutions. Backed by decades of customer trust and a commitment to sustainable growth, the Company remains focused on creating long-term value while supporting the nation's evolving energy needs.

About HPCL

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), incorporated on July 15, 1974, is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) and one of India's leading integrated refining and marketing companies. With interests spanning refining, marketing, distribution, research and development, and renewable energy, HPCL is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions. Through innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centricity, HPCL continues to play a key role in strengthening India's energy security and supporting the nation's transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

   Galgotias University brings pride to India as Sahil Rana and Amaan Lone earn top honours at the GYDMUN in Malaysia

The prestigious international conference brought together delegates from more than 25 nationalities, creating a dynamic platform for young leaders to deliberate on pressing global issues. Participants engaged in discussions centred on diplomacy, international cooperation, the United Nations Charter and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Sahil Rana, a BA (Hons.) Political Science student from the School of Liberal Education, Class of 2027, won the Best Delegate Award. Amaan Lone, a B.Tech. Data Science student from the School of Computer Science, Class of 2028, received the Most Outstanding Delegate Award.

Competing alongside delegates from diverse cultural, national and academic backgrounds, Sahil and Amaan demonstrated exceptional research abilities, confident presentation, persuasive public speaking, diplomatic negotiation and critical thinking under pressure.

Throughout the conference, they articulated their assigned countries’ positions with clarity, responded thoughtfully to challenging questions and presented compelling, evidence-based arguments grounded in the principles of the United Nations. Their ability to engage constructively with participants from different cultures reflected the true spirit of Model United Nations and the importance of collaborative approaches to global challenges.

Sharing his experience, Sahil Rana said, “Winning the Best Delegate Award among participants from more than 25 nationalities is an incredibly proud moment for me. The experience taught me that success in diplomacy depends on thorough preparation and understanding perspectives different from one’s own. I am grateful to Galgotias University for encouraging me to learn beyond the classroom and giving me the confidence to represent India on an international platform.”

Reflecting on his achievement, Amaan Lone said, “Participating in GYDMUN was a transformative experience that challenged me to think critically, communicate with clarity and respond calmly under pressure. Receiving the Most Outstanding Delegate Award has strengthened my belief that students from every academic discipline can contribute meaningfully to conversations on global issues. I am thankful to the University and my mentors for their constant guidance and support.”

Dr Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer of Galgotias University, said, “Sahil and Amaan have made the University and the country proud through their exceptional performance on an international platform. Whether in diplomacy, technology or entrepreneurship, our students are proving that young Indians possess the knowledge, creativity and leadership needed to contribute meaningfully to the world. We remain committed to providing them with mentorship, resources and global opportunities that enable them to transform their potential into real-world impact.”

The honours earned in Malaysia add to a growing series of international achievements by Galgotias University students. At EDVentures 2026, hosted by The Education University of Hong Kong, student teams from the University represented India against 19 teams from 10 countries. Project TACTO secured the top spot for its inclusive, sensory-based coding education solution for visually impaired learners, while Tekurious Pvt. Ltd. was selected among the global finalists for its immersive virtual reality-based learning platform. Read about Galgotias University at EDVentures 2026.

The University also achieved remarkable success in Apple’s Swift Student Challenge 2026, with 18 students from its iOS Development Centre selected among only 350 winners worldwide. Their applications addressed challenges across accessibility, education, healthcare, artificial intelligence and augmented reality. Two students earned the distinction for the second consecutive year, demonstrating the consistency of the University’s innovation ecosystem. Read about the Apple Swift Student Challenge achievement.

Further strengthening its commitment to international academic exposure, Galgotias University selected and fully sponsored 16 students for a two-week Graduate Summer Programme at Girton College, University of Cambridge, under the memorandum of understanding between the two institutions. The immersive programme introduces students to frugal artificial intelligence, innovation and entrepreneurship, strategic thinking, global leadership communication, business modelling and executive storytelling. Culminating in a capstone venture pitch, the programme enables participants to learn from an internationally respected academic ecosystem, engage with multidisciplinary perspectives and develop solutions to contemporary global challenges. Read about the Cambridge Graduate Summer Programme.

Together, these accomplishments reflect Galgotias University’s expanding presence across international platforms in diplomacy, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology and academic excellence. They also underscore the University’s commitment to learning beyond the classroom and to nurturing socially responsible, globally aware and future-ready leaders.

About Galgotias University

Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.

Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

Piyush Tewari Conferred with the 2nd Cheistha Kochhar Good Samaritan Award 2026

Instituted in 2024 in the memory of Late Cheistha Kochhar, a public policy practitioner and behavioural scientist, the annual award celebrates individuals who dedicate themselves to creating lasting social impact. Inspired by Cheistha's belief that "what we create should last longer than we do," the award seeks to encourage acts of courage, empathy and selfless public service. 

Shri Piyush Tewari founded SaveLIFE Foundation following the tragic loss of a family member in a road accident, dedicating his career to making India's roads safer. Under his leadership, the organisation has played a pivotal role in strengthening emergency trauma response, training citizens and law enforcement personnel, and advocating for India's landmark Good Samaritan legal framework that protects bystanders who voluntarily assist road accident victims. Under his leadership, SaveLIFE pioneered India's Zero Fatality Corridor model, achieving over 50% reduction in deaths on high-risk highways.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) S.P. Kochhar, Father of Late Cheistha Kochhar, said, “As a father, it is comforting to know that Cheistha's memory continues to recognise and encourage people whose compassion creates a lasting impact on society. She believed that life is measured by the difference we make to others. Honouring Piyush Tewari this year is deeply meaningful because his work has saved countless lives and inspired an entire movement of ordinary citizens to become Good Samaritans.”

The Cheistha Kochhar Good Samaritan Award was instituted by C-DEP in 2024 to honour citizens whose actions inspire others to place humanity above hesitation. The inaugural award was presented to Shri Suraj Prakash Vaid, whose unwavering commitment over nearly four decades has helped save hundreds of road accident victims by ensuring they receive timely medical attention during the critical "Golden Hour". 

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan
 

Eligible customers who successfully receive a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan during the Loan Fest period may receive a complimentary voucher bundle.
 

Rewards available during loan fest

Eligible customers will receive an exclusive reward bundle on successful loan disbursal that 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
   

The reward bundle will be offered upon successful loan disbursal and is subject to customer eligibility and applicable terms and conditions.
 

Why choose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

Bajaj Finance continues to be a trusted provider of unsecured personal loans with a seamless application process. Key features include:

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

• Interest rates ranging from 10% to 30% per annum

• Quick approval based on eligibility

• Funds disbursed within 24 hours*

• Flexible repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months

• Minimal documentation

• No collateral required

• Fully digital application process
   

During Loan Fest, these benefits are complemented by an exclusive reward bundle, making the borrowing experience even more rewarding.
 

Estimate your EMIs before you apply

Applicants can use the personal loan EMI calculator available on the Bajaj Finance website before applying for a loan. The calculator helps applicants:

• Estimate monthly EMIs based on the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment tenure

• Compare different repayment options

• Select a repayment plan that suits their monthly budget

• Make informed borrowing decisions with greater confidence
   

How to apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan during loan fest

Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is simple:

1. Visit the website: Customers begin by visiting the Bajaj Finance website and navigating to the Personal Loan page.

2. Check loan eligibility: Customers enter the required loan amount and select the preferred repayment tenure. They then click "CHECK LOAN OFFER".

3. Enter personal details: Customers provide their personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer.

4. Review the loan offer: Customers review the available loan offer and may adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure based on their requirements.

5. Complete KYC verification: Customers complete the KYC process and verify their bank account details to facilitate disbursal.

6. Application assessment: The application is submitted for assessment, following which a loan specialist contacts the customer regarding the next steps in the process.

Eligible customers may receive funds within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification.
 

A rewarding borrowing experience

Whether the requirement is for home renovation, education, travel, medical expenses, or any other planned or unexpected expense, the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan provides quick access to funds without collateral. During Loan Fest, eligible customers can also enjoy an exclusive bundle of entertainment, dining, music, and shopping benefits, making successful loan disbursal even more rewarding.
 

Terms and conditions apply*
 

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.

KaarTech leadership and team at the Great Place To Work® India felicitation

The recognition comes during a landmark year for KaarTech. Earlier this year, the company consummated Series B funding led by Playbook Partners, accelerating investments in AI innovation, data and analytics capabilities, global AI Labs, and enterprise platforms. As KaarTech enters its next phase of growth, it continues to strengthen investments in its people and workplace culture, reinforcing its belief that exceptional businesses are built by exceptional teams.

Home to more than 2500+ professionals representing over 15+ nationalities, KaarTech has cultivated a workplace where learning, ownership, and collaboration drive both individual growth and business success. Employees work on complex enterprise transformation programmes spanning AI, SAP, cloud, and data technologies while developing deep technical expertise and global consulting capabilities.

Recognizing that the future of enterprise transformation will be shaped by AI, KaarTech continues to invest significantly in preparing its workforce for emerging technologies. Employees have access to structured learning pathways across Anthropic Claude, Microsoft Copilot, SAP Joule, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Amazon Web Services (AWS), alongside technical certification programmes, mentorship opportunities, internal career mobility, employee wellbeing initiatives, and the KaarTech Global Leadership Program (KGLP), the company's flagship leadership development initiative designed to nurture future leaders.

Commenting on the recognition, Maran Nagarajan, Founder & CEO, KaarTech, said, "At KaarTech, our growth has always been driven by one simple belief that great organizations are built by great people. As we continue to expand globally and shape the future of AI-led enterprise transformation, we remain committed to creating an environment where talent can thrive, ideas are encouraged, and innovation becomes a way of life. Being recognized among India's Top 100 Best Companies to Work For is a proud milestone because it reflects the culture our people have built together over the years."

Vignesh Ramesh Kumar, Chief HR Officer, KaarTech, added, "Being recognized among India's Top 100 Best Companies to Work For is especially meaningful because it reflects the experiences and voices of our employees. At KaarTech, we strive to create an environment where people feel trusted, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through continuous learning, meaningful career opportunities, and an inclusive workplace culture, we remain committed to helping every employee grow while contributing to our collective success."

Today, KaarTech has successfully delivered more than 3,300 enterprise transformation projects for leading organizations worldwide and has been honoured with 23 SAP Quality Awards. With women comprising 34% of its workforce, a globally diverse talent base representing 15+ nationalities, and an industry-leading single-digit attrition rate, the company continues to demonstrate that investing in people is fundamental to delivering customer success and building an enduring organization.

The India's Top 100 Best Companies to Work For 2026 recognition by Great Place To Work India is based on a comprehensive assessment of workplace culture and employee experience. It recognizes organizations that consistently build high-trust workplaces founded on credibility, respect, fairness, pride, camaraderie, and opportunities for employees to realize their full potential.

As KaarTech continues to scale its AI-led enterprise transformation business globally, the company remains committed to building an enduring institution where innovation is powered by technology and sustained by its people, enabling employees to grow alongside the company's next phase of global growth.

NIIT Foundation has been Great Place To Work® Certified for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and purpose
 

The certification is based on an independent assessment conducted by the Great Place To Work®, which captures employee’s experiences and perceptions of their workplace. This year, NIIT Foundation recorded an overall Trust Index Score of 86%, with 458 employees participating in the survey. The organisation also performed strongly across key workplace dimensions, including Corporate Image (89%), Pride (89%), Leadership Behaviour (88%), Communication (88%), and Justice (87%), reflecting the confidence employees have in the NIIT Foundation's culture and leadership.
 

Commenting on the recognition, Sapna Moudgil, CEO, NIIT Foundation, said, "This certification is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices and experiences of our people. It is a recognition of the culture we have built together, one rooted in trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to our purpose. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, empowered to learn, and inspired to create meaningful social impact."
 

The survey also highlighted several areas where NIIT Foundation scored above the Great Place To Work® benchmark. Employees appreciated the organization's emphasis on professional development, fair and inclusive management practices, workplace safety, and its welcoming environment for new team members. Many also expressed pride in the NIIT Foundation's contribution to society and the positive impact of its work, reinforcing the strong sense of purpose that defines the organization.

Established in 2004, NIIT Foundation works to bridge the digital divide by expanding access to education, digital literacy, employability, and skill development opportunities for underserved communities. Through partnerships with government agencies, corporate organizations, and civil society the NIIT Foundation delivers high-impact programs that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and stay true to its commitment of reaching the unreached.
 

The Great Place To Work® Certification is another milestone in NIIT Foundation's journey of investing in its people while advancing its social mission. It reflects the NIIT Foundation's ongoing efforts to foster a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to contribute to meaningful and lasting change.
 

About NIIT Foundation

NIIT Foundation (NF) is a not-for-profit education society (NGO) established by the promoters of NIIT in 2004. The Foundation implements CSR programs for Corporates and Corporate Foundations and also builds strong partnerships with NGOs to drive sustainable and scalable development.
 

Its mission is to positively impact the underprivileged of the country through educational initiatives and skill development programs. NIIT Foundation has a mandate to reach the unreached, uncared and unattended to ensure inclusive development of India. With a strong pan-India footprint, NIIT Foundation reaches underserved communities across 28 states and 3 Union Territories.
 

Guided by its mandate to bridge the education and employability gap at the grassroots level, NIIT Foundation implements a wide range of programs and initiatives, including Career and Skill Development programs, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, Cyber Security, Community Awareness programs, the Digital Bus initiative, Hole-in-the-Wall Learning Stations, and AI-enabled programs in the IT–ITeS domain.
 

NIIT Foundation is a Great Place To Work® (GPTW) certified organization for three consecutive years and ISO 9001:2015 certified, reflecting its strong people-centric culture, robust governance, and commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
 

NIIT Foundation works on social development initiatives, including education, digital inclusion, and skilling for underserved communities. All programs and partnerships are undertaken solely by NIIT Foundation. Any reference to any other similarly named entity in relation to NIIT Foundation’s initiatives is incorrect unless explicitly specified.
 

To know more, please visit our website, www.niitfoundation.org, and follow us on our social media channels.
 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/niitfoundation/?originalSubdomain=in 

Twitter: x.com/NIIT_Foundation 

YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC0mLKG8oDG-sFWH2XhoDgMQ 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NIITFoundation 

GTA 6 is set to arrive in India on 19 November 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S

Customers looking to upgrade their gaming setup can purchase consoles, televisions, and accessories on an Easy EMI Loan from Bajaj Finance. With financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and repayment tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months, customers can spread the cost into manageable monthly instalments without a large upfront payment. Customers can visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finance partner stores, check their pre-approved limit online using their mobile number and OTP, and take home their preferred products the same day. Select products also come with a zero down payment offer.

Five things to know about GTA 6 before it launches in India

1. Release date and platform availability

• Launch date: 19 November 2026

• Supported platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S

• Not available on: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One

• PC version: Not yet announced — a later release is widely expected

• Players who do not own a current-generation console will need to upgrade before launch day

2. GTA 6 price in India and available editions

GTA 6 is expected to launch in two editions in India.

• Standard Edition: Rs. 5,999 — includes the base game with all core features

• Ultimate Edition: Rs. 7,499 — includes additional in-game content and bonus items

3. How and where to pre-order GTA 6 in India

• Digital editions: GTA 6 pre-orders officially began on 25 June 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S

• Pre-order benefits: Select editions may include bonus in-game content

4. Key features and gameplay

• Dual protagonists: Players follow Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval across the fictional state of Leonida

• Expanded open world: Cities, beaches, highways, swamps, and rural regions — reportedly the largest map in GTA history

• Dynamic weather system: Weather changes dynamically throughout the game world

• Improved NPC behaviour: Non-playable characters react more naturally to player actions

• More interiors: Significantly more enterable buildings and activities than previous titles

5. Hardware requirements and gaming setup costs in India

GTA 6 launches on PS5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Rockstar has not confirmed PC requirements — industry estimates suggest the following minimum specifications.

• Processor: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

• RAM: 16 GB minimum

• Graphics card: NVIDIA RTX 3080 or AMD RX 6800 XT

• Storage: 150 GB SSD minimum

Estimated costs for a complete GTA 6 gaming setup in India:

• PS5 or Xbox Series X: Rs. 49,990 to Rs. 54,990

• 4K Smart TV, 43 to 55 inch: Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 65,000

• Gaming headset: Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 30,000

• Gaming controller: Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000

• Estimated total setup cost: Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 1,50,000

Disclaimer: EMIs and prices may vary by partner store, offer period, location, and variant. Please check the latest information at the partner store before purchase.

How to buy a gaming setup for GTA 6 from Bajaj Finance partner stores?

Indian gamers looking to build or upgrade their setup can follow these steps at any Bajaj Finance partner store.

1. Browse products on Bajaj Mall: Customers can explore gaming consoles, televisions, gaming headsets, and accessories, and compare specifications, prices, and features before visiting a store.

2. Find a nearby partner store: Customers can use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or Reliance Digital.

3. Check the products in person: At the store, customers can compare shortlisted products based on performance, display quality, and gaming specifications.

4. Opt for an Easy EMI Loan: Customers can finance purchases of up to Rs. 5 lakh with repayment tenures from 3 to 60 months. Select products may also come with zero down payment.

5. Use the Insta EMI Network Card: Existing cardholders can convert purchases into EMIs instantly through a paperless process.

6. Complete the purchase: Once financing is approved, the purchase is processed immediately, and customers can take home their gaming setup the same day.

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.

PNB MetLife recognized by Great Place To Work®
 

Commenting on this Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work®, said, “As we unveil India’s Best Companies To Work For 2026, we reflect on a journey that has, over decades, shaped how organizations understand and build workplace culture. In India, this study has become one of the most comprehensive workplace culture assessments, capturing the lived experiences of over 5.7 million employees across 20+ industries.
 

We observe that Best Workplaces outperform peers by scoring 89% on caring and inspiring, which are two of the nine key leadership behaviors as defined by Great Place To Work. Organizations that prioritize these behaviors see 14% higher experience of productivity, retention, and customer service scores. Leaders at Best Workplaces demonstrate that when people feel valued and heard, they bring their best selves to work.
 

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to PNB MetLife that has earned a place on this year’s list as well. This recognition belongs to every leader who leads with intent, every team that fosters belonging, and every employee who contributes to building a culture of trust. The journey to greatness starts with you."
 

Commenting on the recognition, Sameer Bansal, Managing Director & CEO, PNB MetLife, said, “Our people are our greatest strength, and this recognition celebrates the culture they help create every day. Being ranked among India’s Top 20 Best Companies to Work For 2026 inspires us to raise the bar further and continue building a workplace where innovation, collaboration, and purpose thrive. As we grow, we remain committed to creating opportunities that empower our employees to achieve their full potential and make a meaningful impact for our customers, communities, and the stakeholders.”
 

Backed by 30 years of data, Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Through its proprietary For All™ Model and Trust Index™ Survey, it gives organizations the recognition and tools to create a consistently positive employee experience. Its mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all, driving business growth, improving lives, and empowering communities. Through globally recognized and coveted Great Place To Work Certification™ and highly competitive Best Workplaces Lists, Great Place To Work enables employers to attract and retain talent, benchmark company culture, and increase revenue. Its platform enables leaders to truly capture, analyze and understand the experience of every employee, and compare outcomes with data collected from more than 100 million employees in 150 countries worldwide.
 

About PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited (PNB MetLife) is one of the leading life insurance companies in India that combines the financial strength of MetLife, Inc. with the credibility of PNB, one of India's oldest nationalized banks. PNB MetLife's positioning, Always Ready for Life, is demonstrated through empowering every individual to lead life with absolute confidence.
 

With a strong presence in 182 offices and access to customers in over 20,000 locations through bank partnerships, PNB MetLife offers a comprehensive insurance solutions portfolio covering Child Education, Family Protection, Long-Term Saving and Retirement. The company has a wide range of protection and retirement plans available through its sales channel of over 40,000 financial advisors and multiple bank partners and caters to over 585 group relationships in India.
 

For more information, follow us on:

Facebook - www.facebook.com/PNBMetLife

Instagram - www.instagram.com/pnb_metlife

Visit - www.pnbmetlife.com

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The collateral-free loan is designed to help finance planned and urgent expenses such as home renovation, higher education, medical treatment, travel, and weddings with minimal documentation, quick approval, and disbursal within 24 hours* after approval.

What affects the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?
Several financial and credit-related factors influence the personal loan interest rate offered to an applicant. Knowing these factors before applying can help customers better understand how their borrowing cost is determined and plan their repayments accordingly.

Some of the key factors include:

• Credit score and repayment history

• Monthly income and repayment capacity

• Employment type and job stability

• Existing financial obligations

• Loan amount requested

• Repayment tenure selected

• Overall eligibility assessment

For example, a salaried software engineer in Pune earning Rs. 90,000 per month with manageable financial commitments and a strong repayment history may apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan of Rs. 8 lakh. The applicable personal loan interest rate is determined after evaluating the applicant's complete financial profile and eligibility. This assessment enables the borrower to estimate the monthly EMI and select a suitable repayment tenure.

Understanding these factors before applying contributes to better financial planning and more informed borrowing decisions.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan: Key features at a glance
Bajaj Finance offers a collateral-free personal loan with features designed to support a wide range of financial requirements.

What is new in this offering?
One of the latest updates to the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is the extension of the maximum repayment tenure to 108 months.

The longer repayment period provides eligible customers with greater flexibility while managing larger loan amounts. By spreading repayments over a longer duration, monthly EMIs may become more manageable, supporting improved financial planning.

For example, an individual taking a Rs. 10 lakh loan may choose a longer repayment tenure to reduce monthly EMI obligations. While extending the repayment period may lower the monthly instalment amount, the total interest payable over the entire tenure may be higher. Comparing available tenure options can help identify a repayment structure that aligns with individual financial circumstances.

Why does the personal loan interest rate matter?
The personal loan interest rate directly influences both the monthly EMI and the overall borrowing cost throughout the repayment period.
Knowing the applicable interest rate before applying can help customers estimate their monthly repayments and choose a suitable loan amount and repayment tenure. Using an EMI calculator can further help compare different repayment scenarios and support better financial planning.

Who can benefit from the extended repayment tenure?
The extended repayment tenure can benefit eligible customers who prefer lower monthly EMIs or need greater flexibility while repaying their loan.

This feature may benefit:

• Homeowners planning renovation or repair work

• Parents financing higher education

• Individuals managing wedding expenses

• Customers facing medical emergencies

• Professionals investing in career development or skill enhancement

The flexibility to select a repayment tenure of up to 108 months allows eligible customers to choose a repayment schedule that aligns with their income, financial commitments, and long-term financial goals.

How does the application process work?
The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process is fully online and can be completed in a few simple steps.

• Visit the website: Customers begin by visiting the Bajaj Finance website and navigating to the Personal Loan page.

• Check loan eligibility: Customers enter the required loan amount and select the preferred repayment tenure. They then click "CHECK LOAN OFFER".

• Enter personal details: Customers provide their personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer.

• Review the loan offer: Customers review the available loan offer and may adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure based on their requirements.

• Complete KYC verification: Customers complete the KYC process and verify their bank account details to facilitate disbursal.

• Application assessment: The application is submitted for assessment, following which a loan specialist contacts the customer regarding the next steps in the process.

Eligible customers may receive funds within 24 hours* after approval and successful verification.

Making an informed borrowing decision
Understanding the factors that influence a personal loan interest rate can help customers estimate borrowing costs, compare repayment options, and choose a repayment plan that aligns with their financial requirements.

With loan amounts ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, interest rates from 10% to 30% per annum, and a repayment tenure of up to 108 months, the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers eligible customers a flexible, collateral-free borrowing solution for a wide range of planned and urgent financial needs. Eligible customers can check their loan offer online and complete the application process through a simple digital journey.

*Terms and conditions apply.

*Disbursal timelines and loan eligibility are subject to assessment and document verification.

About Bajaj Finance Ltd.
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.

Knowledgeum Academy’s Outgoing Class of 2024 - 2026

The graduating cohort achieved an average score of 32 points, with the highest individual score of 41. 

Leading the class are Jahnavi C T (41/45), who will be pursuing higher education at Krea University, India; Moksh Venkata Sai Yellapu (40/45) and Murali Madhava P (40/45), both heading to the University of Warwick, UK; and Ojaswin Tharan (40/45), who has secured admission to King's College London, UK. 

For the Knowledgeum Academy community, these results represent far more than academic statistics. They reflect the determination of learners who embraced challenges with confidence, as well as the unwavering support of a dedicated team of IB-trained educators, university counsellors, mentors, staff and parents who guided them throughout their two-year journey.

Dr. Chenraj Roychand, Founder Chairman of JAIN Group and Founder of Knowledgeum Academy, shared his congratulations:
"This class has shown what can be accomplished when education moves beyond the classroom and learners step beyond their comfort zones. Seeing our learners surpass global averages and achieve the prestigious 40+ milestone is truly inspiring.”

Reflecting on the learners' transformational journey, Ms. Aparna Prasad, Founder of Knowledgeum Academy, added, "Watching these young individuals walk into the academy in 2024 and seeing who they have become today is truly heartening. These results are a testament to the quiet hours of hard work, the courage to embrace challenging opportunities, and the unwavering support of parents and educators. They have transformed rigorous academic experiences into a future filled with limitless possibilities."

The achievements of the Class of 2024–2026 extend well beyond examination results. As a UCAS-registered centre, Knowledgeum Academy's personalised university guidance and mentorship have empowered learners to realise their global aspirations. Members of the graduating cohort have already secured offers from leading universities in India and internationally, including the University of California, the University of Melbourne, Singapore Management University, Krea University, Ashoka University, the University of Warwick, and King's College London, among others. Learners will be pursuing diverse disciplines spanning liberal arts, business, engineering, design, technology, and the sciences. Several have also been awarded attractive merit-based scholarships in recognition of their academic excellence and holistic achievements.

As Knowledgeum Academy celebrates another milestone, the success of the Class of 2024–2026 reinforces the institution's reputation as one of Bengaluru's leading IB World Schools. More importantly, it reflects the academy's enduring commitment to nurturing intellectually curious, compassionate, and future-ready global citizens who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to Bharat and the world.

To learn more about Knowledgeum Academy and its IBDP offerings, visit www.knowledgeumacademy.in.  
 

About Knowledgeum Academy
Knowledgeum Academy, an IB World School in Bengaluru and part of the well-known JAIN Group, offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12. 

Recognised as India's Top Emerging International School by Education Today in 2023, Knowledgeum Academy combines rigorous academics with personalised mentorship, university guidance, and experiential learning to prepare learners for success at leading universities in India and around the world. 

For media inquiries, please contact media@jgi.ac.in

National Institute of Construction Management and Research (NICMAR), India’s premier institution for Built Environment, Infrastructure, Real Estate, and Project Management (CRIP) education, hosted the Grand Finale of the inaugural Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge 2025-26 in JW Marriot Mumbai. The event, India’s premier innovation challenge for Civil Engineering, Architecture and Core Engineering students, was graced by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. The occasion brought together young innovators, industry leaders, academicians, and policymakers to celebrate student-led innovation for the future of India’s infrastructure.
 

Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, felicitating winners of the Inaugural Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge 2025-26 Grand Finale organised by NICMAR
 

Launched in December 2025, the Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge is NICMAR’s flagship nationwide innovation platform designed to encourage students to develop practical solutions for the country’s evolving infrastructure and built environment needs. Supported by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the inaugural edition engaged over 20,000 students from more than 500 institutions across the country. Following college-level rounds, city competitions across 11 cities and three regional finales, the top three teams advanced to the National Grand Finale.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, said, “For futuristic development, futuristic research is paramount and our young talented engineers are very capable of this; and NICMAR has done good work in this area & through Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge. Students and institutions should constantly focus on need based research that’s required to reduce cost of construction without compromising on quality of construction. Using technology, cost effective solutions can be made that can help reduce imports in the sector. Today, there’s immense scope for pre-cast and tunnelling in India. In line with the ongoing infrastructure developments and requirements, NICMAR should design pre-cast compound wall – one that’s the need of the hour. I would like to congratulate all the students for their research and invaluable contribution.”

The Grand Finale witnessed participation from regional winning teams representing IIT Delhi, Maturi Venkata Subba Rao Engineering College and Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering. Following a rigorous evaluation by an eminent jury comprising industry leaders and academicians, Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering bagged the winners title of the inaugural edition of Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge. The winning team received a Global Infrastructure Excellence Tour along with the overall prize pool worth INR 30 lakh.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Ajit Gulabchand, Chairman of the Board of Trustee’s and Board of Governors of National Institute of Construction Management and Research (NICMAR), said, “As India enters one of the most crucial infrastructure development phases, our greatest asset will not only be capital or technology, but also the quality of our talent. NICMAR’s, Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge is an initiative to transform students from learners into problem solvers by exposing them to real-world infrastructure challenges and encouraging interdisciplinary innovation. At NICMAR, we strongly believe that the nation can only be as strong as the people who build it.”

Alongside the competition, NICMAR hosted the Industry-Academia Conclave, bringing together leading industry professionals, academicians, and policymakers to deliberate on the future of India’s infrastructure ecosystem. The conclave featured insightful discussions on strengthening the collaboration between academia and industry, accelerating technology adoption, and promoting sustainable and resilient infrastructure. It also reiterated the importance of building a future-ready talent pipeline to support India’s infrastructure ambitions and the evolving needs of the Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure and Project Management (CRIP) sector.

“The Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge also exemplifies NICMAR’s commitment to strengthening the connection between academia and industry. By creating opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges and interact with industry leaders, we are nurturing future professionals who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to India’s infrastructure and urban development journey,” added Mr. Gulabchand.

With the successful completion of its inaugural edition, the Bharat Nav-Nirmaan Challenge has established itself as a national platform nurturing innovation, strengthening industry-academia collaboration and empowering the next generation of infrastructure leaders to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

About NICMAR
Established in 1983, NICMAR is an autonomous, non-governmental, not-for-profit and India’s only premier CRIP (Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure, Project) dedicated education institute. Backed by some of the largest and leading construction companies, NICMAR is recognised for academic excellence, industry relevance, and strong placement outcomes, with four campuses in Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR and Mumbai. The Institute is recognised globally for its contributions to the built environment.
 

For more information, please visit www.nicmar.ac.in.

Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Health Dept, and village Sarpanch

The recognition was presented during a programme organised by the Health Department in the presence of Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, as the Chief Guest. The event was Englishattended by Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Gurugram, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Gurugram, doctors, healthcare professionals, frontline health workers, community members and representatives of M3M Foundation.

The Health Department acknowledged the Foundation's continued support in strengthening public healthcare infrastructure and complementing government efforts to improve healthcare delivery at the grassroots. As part of its recent interventions, M3M Foundation renovated the Sub Health Centre, helping create a better-equipped and patient-friendly healthcare facility. The Foundation also distributed nutritional dry ration kits to 90 tuberculosis (TB) patients, supporting their treatment journey and contributing to the collective effort towards a TB-free India.

Further strengthening healthcare services, the Foundation provided essential infrastructure and medical equipment to the health centre, including a freezer, washing machine, almirah, water cooler, haemoglobin analyser, blood pressure monitoring machine, glucometer, height-weight machine and other diagnostic equipment, enabling healthcare professionals to deliver improved patient care.

These interventions have been undertaken through M3M Foundation's flagship Kartavya Programme, which focuses on preventive healthcare, community well-being and occupational health. As part of the initiative, the Foundation has reached over 2 lakh individuals through healthcare interventions and, during 2025-26 alone, organised 102 health camps, benefiting more than 14,280 people through medical consultations, health screening, medicines and preventive healthcare awareness.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, said, "Strong healthcare systems are built through collective responsibility. M3M Foundation's contribution towards strengthening health infrastructure and supporting community healthcare reflects the positive impact of partnerships between the government and responsible institutions. On National Doctors' Day, I extend my sincere appreciation to every doctor and healthcare professional for their dedicated service."

Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer, Gurugram, appreciated the Foundation's continued collaboration with the Health Department, said, "Quality healthcare becomes more effective when institutions work together. M3M Foundation has consistently supported the Health Department through infrastructure development, preventive healthcare and community outreach. Such collaborations help us strengthen healthcare services and reach more people."

The Appreciation Letter was received by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, on behalf of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation. 

Commenting on the recognition, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, "This recognition is a reminder that meaningful healthcare begins with strong partnerships and reaches its true purpose when quality services become accessible to every community. Through Kartavya, we remain committed to strengthening primary healthcare, promoting preventive care and supporting the public health system. As we move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, healthier communities will be the foundation of a stronger and more resilient nation."

On National Doctors' Day, M3M Foundation also paid tribute to doctors, nurses, frontline health workers and medical professionals whose unwavering commitment continues to strengthen India's healthcare system and improve countless lives.

The recognition further reinforces M3M Foundation's commitment to working alongside the Health Department to strengthen primary healthcare infrastructure, expand community health initiatives and improve access to affordable, quality healthcare, contributing to the shared vision of a healthier and Viksit Bharat.
 

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.

Vishal Mega Mart Outlet
 

Mr. Gunender Kapur, MD & CEO of Vishal Mega Mart, stated, “We are pleased to be featured in the 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 List. It reflects the trust that millions of customers across India place in us and the dedication and hard work of thousands of our employees in our stores, warehouses and offices across the country.”
 

The 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 list, a collaboration between Axis Bank's Burgundy Private and Hurun India, is a benchmark for corporate success in the Indian economy. It highlights the top 500 most valuable companies in India. Being part of this list puts Vishal Mega Mart among the elite group of companies that are shaping the narrative of India's growth and dynamism.

About Vishal Mega Mart

Vishal Mega Mart Limited is a one stop destination for making aspirations affordable for India’s young and middle-income group customers. The company strives to provide an aspirational range of high-quality fashion, general merchandise and FMCG products at prices that are affordable. The company curates a unique range of merchandise through its portfolio of 26 own brands which contribute to 75% of our revenue.
 

Vishal has a pan-India presence with 800+ stores across 535+ cities. Further, Vishal’s digital quick commerce initiative is now available in more than 500 cities with a registered user base of 14 million.
 

With 169 million customers, Vishal’s loyalty program is India’s largest customer loyalty program and ranks as the 12th largest globally. Vishal Mega Mart has also been featured in the Kantar BrandZ™ 2025 Most Valuable Indian Brands List (Top 100).
 

About Hurun India 500
The Hurun India 500 is an annual ranking published by Hurun India that recognizes India's 500 most valuable companies based on their market capitalization (for listed companies) or estimated valuation (for unlisted companies). The list serves as a benchmark of corporate excellence and reflects the strength, scale and resilience of India's business ecosystem across sectors such as retail, FMCG, technology, financial services, manufacturing, healthcare and consumer businesses.
 

The 2025 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500, published in collaboration with Axis Bank's Burgundy Private, showcases companies that have demonstrated sustained value creation, strong business performance and long-term growth. The ranking highlights organizations that are contributing significantly to India's economic development through innovation, employment generation and expanding consumer access. Being featured in the Hurun India 500 places companies among India's most valuable enterprises and recognizes their role in shaping the country's evolving corporate landscape.
 

The ranking is widely regarded by industry leaders, investors and policymakers as an important indicator of corporate performance and business leadership in India. It provides insights into emerging sectors, evolving consumer trends and the growing influence of Indian enterprises on both domestic and global markets. The annual list also celebrates companies that continue to build enduring brands, strengthen governance practices and drive sustainable growth while contributing meaningfully to India's expanding economy.

Trident Group Earns Great Place to Work Certification with 95% Employee Trust Score

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

“At a time of exceptional technological disruption and workplace uncertainty, Trident Group has demonstrated its commitment toward the wellbeing of all its employees by fostering a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.”

"While we've always been ahead of the industry on employee wellbeing, being recognised by Great Place To Work is truly rewarding and has set the standard for a high-trust, high-performance culture," said Pooja Luthra, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Trident Group India. "The 95% score matters most because it comes directly from our members. It tells us they feel part of a workplace where trust is high and performance is fairly rewarded.”

The certification follows years of forward-looking investment in policies built around the realities of a diverse, modern workforce. Trident's benefits include menstrual leave, paternity leave, adoption assistance, and flexible short leaves that help employees manage their health and personal commitments without trade-offs. These are paired with health and life insurance, regular health check-ups, and lifestyle benefits spanning rental, travel, dining, and shopping — signs of a company investing in its people's wellbeing both at work and beyond.

"Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Trident Group stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

About Trident Group

Trident Limited is the flagship company of Trident Group, an Indian business conglomerate and global player. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Limited is a vertically integrated textile (Yarn, Bath & Bed Linen) and Paper (Wheat Straw-based) manufacturer. Trident's towels, yarns, bedsheets, and paper businesses have earned global recognition and are delighting millions of customers across India and the world. Trident is one of the largest players in home textiles in India.

Supplying national, captive, and retailer-owned brands; the organization is highly decorated with awards from its customers, vendors, and various government entities in recognition of advancing the highest standards in product quality, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The company operates in three major business segments: Textiles, Paper, and Chemicals, with its manufacturing facilities in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.

About Great Place to Work

Great Place To Work Certification is the most definitive “employer-of-choice” recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience – specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified.

Best Atomberg ceiling fans for bedrooms, living rooms, and smart homes in India in 2026

During the Bajaj Finance Summer Sale, shoppers can purchase their preferred Atomberg ceiling fan at a highly competitive price, thanks to limited-time offers and discounts at Bajaj Finance partner stores. Models can be browsed on Bajaj Mall, compared by blade sweep, series, and smart features, and purchased at any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities. With an Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh and repayment tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months, the cost can be split into manageable monthly instalments. Select models also come with a zero down payment offer.

Top-selling Atomberg ceiling fans to explore in 2026
The following models cover a range of room sizes, design styles, and smart features available across the Atomberg lineup: 

1. Atomberg Renesa 1200 mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote

Price: Rs. 5,190
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: A practical option for bedrooms and medium-sized living rooms. The BLDC motor helps reduce electricity consumption, while the remote control makes everyday operation more convenient.

2. Atomberg Renesa 1400 mm 28 W BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote (Matte Brown)

Price: Rs. 5,590
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: The wider 1400 mm sweep provides stronger air circulation across larger rooms and halls while maintaining the energy efficiency associated with BLDC technology.

3. Atomberg Efficio Plus 1200 mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote (Sand Grey)

Price: Rs. 5,850
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: Designed for bedrooms, study rooms, and workspaces, this model combines quiet operation with practical features such as a timer and remote control.

4. Atomberg Erica 1200 mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote (Snow White)

Price: Rs. 6,750
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: A stylish option for modern interiors, combining a minimalist design with the energy-saving benefits of a BLDC motor.

5. Atomberg Studio Plus 1200 mm 32 W BLDC Ceiling Fan (Earth Brown)

Price: Rs. 7,410
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: Integrates LED lighting and cooling in a single fixture, making it suitable for rooms where both functions are required without additional fittings.

6. Atomberg Renesa Smart Plus 1200 mm BLDC Ceiling Fan with Remote (Pearl White)

Price: Rs. 8,860
EMIs starting from: Rs. 830 per month

Why it works: Adds app-based and voice control, allowing users to adjust speed, create schedules, and manage settings through a connected home ecosystem.

Disclaimer: EMIs and prices may vary by partner store, offer period, location, and variant. Please check the latest information at the partner store before purchase.
 

How to buy an Atomberg ceiling fan from Bajaj Finance partner stores?
Splitting the cost of a new Atomberg ceiling fan into monthly instalments makes the upgrade significantly more manageable. Shoppers can follow these steps to complete the purchase:

• Browse on Bajaj Mall: Compare Atomberg ceiling fan models by blade sweep, series, and smart features before visiting a store.

• Check pre-approved eligibility: The pre-approved loan limit can be verified on the Bajaj Finance website using a registered mobile number and OTP verification.

• Find a partner store: Shortlisted models can be checked at 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finance partner stores across 4,000+ cities.

• Check the model in person: In-store staff can assist with evaluating blade sweep, design, and key features.

• Choose an EMI plan: Financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh is available through the Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan, with zero down payment on select models and tenures from 3 to 60 months.

• Complete the purchase: Once approved, the transaction is processed immediately and the Atomberg ceiling fan can be taken home the same day.

With limited-time offers during the Bajaj Finance Summer Sale, now is an ideal time to upgrade to an energy-efficient Atomberg ceiling fan that matches both room requirements and design preferences.

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.

PayGlocal strengthens its international payment gateway with Google Pay Card Payments, giving Indian merchants access to trusted global payment experiences

With this launch, and Apple Pay already live on PayGlocal's gateway, Indian merchants can now collectively reach over one billion customers across the world's largest consumer markets - the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, the UAE, Singapore, and across Western Europe. This means, an Indian merchant's global customer can reach checkout and pay in a single tap, in their own currency, using Google Pay Card Payments on PayGlocal. 

Outside India, Google Pay is the card-linked NFC and online checkout wallet for hundreds of millions of Android users worldwide. It operates across 86+ countries, supports 60+ currencies, and is integrated with over 6.4 million merchants globally. In the US, 87% of merchants accept it at checkout. In the UK, Australia, and across Europe, it is the default tap-to-pay experience for a generation of consumers who have never reached for a physical card at checkout.

These are exactly the consumers Indian exporters have been trying to reach - high-intent, digitally native buyers in high-purchasing-power markets who, until now, often hit friction at an Indian merchant's checkout. A foreign card declined, a payment form that felt unfamiliar, a sale lost.

Google Pay Card Payments on PayGlocal eliminates that entirely.

"Google Pay is how hundreds of millions of people across the world's biggest markets pay every day. Bringing it to Indian merchants is not just a feature addition - it is a fundamental shift in who Indian brands can sell to and how seamlessly they can do it," said Yogesh Lokhande, Co-founder and CTO, PayGlocal. "Combined with Apple Pay, we have now built the payments stack that puts every major global consumer within reach of every Indian merchant on our platform. This is what it means to take India to the world."

PayGlocal anticipates a nearly 40% increase in merchant activations following the Google Pay launch, as Indian businesses move quickly to eliminate checkout friction for their global customers.

What This Unlocks for Indian Merchants

• One billion+ users reached: Google Pay and Apple Pay together span 90+ countries -both available through a single integration on PayGlocal's International Payment Gateway.

• Full Android coverage: Google Pay serves the hundreds of millions of Android users in key export markets, a segment complementary to Apple Pay's iOS user base.

• Up to 40% higher conversion: Payment methods like Google Pay and Apple Pay consistently outperform manual card entry at checkout - consumers are more likely to complete a purchase when their preferred payment method is available.

• Secure by design: Every Google Pay transaction is tokenized and biometrically authenticated at the device level - no card details are ever exposed, no credentials stored on merchant servers.

• 60+ currencies: Customers pay in their local currency. Merchants settle in theirs. PayGlocal handles everything in between.

The Checkout Experience Global Buyers Expect
For a shopper in London, Sydney, or San Francisco, buying from an Indian brand should feel no different from buying from a local one. With Google Pay Card Payments now live on PayGlocal's gateway, it does. PayGlocal's intelligent routing and fraud prevention layer works underneath every transaction, combining Google's global security framework with PayGlocal's deep expertise in cross-border payment flows, ensuring every checkout is fast, secure, and seamless, wherever in the world the customer is.

India Is Ready. The World Can Now Pay
India recorded over 208 billion digital payment transactions in 2024, among the highest of any country in the world. The country has not just adopted digital payments; it has set the global benchmark for what fast, seamless, and trusted payments look like.

PayGlocal exists to carry that standard across borders. Because the same trust, speed, and confidence that an Indian consumer feels tapping their phone to pay should be exactly what a customer in London or Sydney feels when they buy from an Indian brand. With Google Pay now live alongside Apple Pay, and a payments stack purpose-built for cross-border commerce, PayGlocal is giving India's best businesses everything they need to go global, and making sure the world can pay for them.

About PayGlocal
PayGlocal is India's leading cross-border payments platform, purpose-built for Indian businesses selling to global customers. Founded in 2021 by payments veterans from Visa, PayGlocal offers international card processing, multi-currency accounts, alternate payment methods, and advanced fraud detection - all engineered to maximize payment success rates for Indian businesses operating globally. PayGlocal is RBI-authorized as a Payment Aggregator, both cross-border (inward and outward), and domestic (online).

From the villages of Bihar to the global stage at Cannes—celebrating the courage of mothers transforming girls' education

The project, submitted by Bengaluru-based organisations Mantra Social Services and ShikshaLokam, both part of the broader Shikshagraha movement, stands alongside some of the world's most impactful campaigns driving measurable social change.

The recognition places a community-led education initiative from rural Bihar on one of the world's most prestigious stages for creativity and impact.

At the heart of the project is the Shiksha Chaupal, a community engagement model developed through years of grassroots work that brings together mothers, fathers, youth and local leaders to openly discuss the barriers preventing girls from completing their education. Through collective dialogue and public pledges, communities commit to ensuring girls remain in school and are protected from child marriage.

To date, the initiative has facilitated more than 28,000 community gatherings across 14 districts in Bihar, mobilising over 800,000 citizens around girls' education and gender equality.

The eight-minute documentary Mothers of Courage, directed by Vandana R and produced by Butterfly Effect Media, chronicles these conversations and the women leading change within their communities.

"The women featured in this film are not activists in the conventional sense. They are mothers and mothers-in-law who chose to challenge deeply entrenched social norms — some fighting for their daughters, others breaking convention to send their daughters-in-law back to school," said Khushboo Awasthi, Co-founder of Mantra4Change and Chief Curator, Shikshagraha.

"This recognition belongs to them and to the thousands of communities across Bihar that have demonstrated how collective action can create lasting change. To see that work acknowledged on a global platform like Cannes Lions is both humbling and encouraging."   

The Sustainable Development Goals Lions category recognises work that advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through demonstrable social impact. The category is among the festival's most competitive, with a strong emphasis on measurable outcomes and real-world change.

For director Vandana R, the power of the film lay in documenting an existing movement rather than creating a narrative around it.

"Everything audiences see in Mothers of Courage emerged from real conversations taking place in villages across Bihar," she said. "Our role was simply to listen, observe and document. The courage and conviction came from the women themselves."

The shortlist adds to a growing list of recognitions for the project, including the Best Inspirational Film award at the Los Angeles Film Awards 2026 and a Silver at the ABBY Awards 2026 in the Sustainable Development Goals category.

For Shikshagraha, the recognition highlights the growing visibility of community-led approaches to public education reform and gender equality.

Championed by S.D. Shibulal (Co-founder and Former CEO of Infosys) and Bengaluru-based non-profits ShikshaLokam and Mantra4Change, Shikshagraha works with more than 30 partner organisations across 16 states to strengthen public education systems and improve outcomes for children in government schools.

About Shikshagraha
Shikshagraha is a people-powered movement to improve all 1 million public schools in India, so that every child experiences enriching learning and is ready for the future.

Real change begins with the child at the centre — their learning, confidence, well-being, and aspirations, and with those closest to the child. The movement enables parents, women and youth to demand and support quality education, and equips teachers, school leaders, and officials with tools for micro-improvements towards systemic change.

Currently, 30+ civil society, industry and philanthropic partners in the Shikshagraha network are collectively strengthening 1,17,000+ schools across 35 districts across 16 states & UTs. This includes enabling education leaders to lead need-based school improvements and amplifying women, youth and community participation in the public education system.

Shikshagraha works towards improving schools where the need is greatest, supports leadership on the ground, and shifts the norms that hold education back. Through visible practice change and collective action by communities, governments, civil society, and markets, it reimagines what public schools can and must deliver.

Visit shikshagraha.org/ for more details.