ShikshaNext, the 3-year, INR 170-crore multi-donor initiative aimed at improving learning outcomes for children across India by leveraging EdTech and AI, today announced the next phase of its journey with the selection of 11 solutions across its EdTech ScaleX and EdTech Accelerator pillars.

A teacher demonstrates an EdTech app to her students, part of ShikshaNext's  market-shaping push to bring proven digital tools into Indian classrooms

The announcement moves the ShikshaNext initiative from vision to execution, aiming to bring evidence-backed and emerging EdTech and AI solutions closer to classrooms and state government systems by 2029. ShikshaNext is anchored by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, Reliance Foundation, and Gates Foundation as Founding Strategic Partners, with Central Square Foundation as the Managing Partner. The Initiative is also supported by Anthropic as a Supporting Partner.

This Initiative further brings together three interconnected pillars, each addressing a different stage of the EdTech innovation pipeline: EdTech ScaleX focuses on improving learning outcomes at scale by taking proven solutions into government systems and enabling their effective adoption; the EdTech Accelerator strengthens the pipeline of promising solutions as they are being built, tested and refined; and the EdTech and AI Innovation Hub tackles some of the unsolved problem statements that could shape the next generation of technology and AI-led education solutions.

Underpinning these three pillars is a sustained commitment to rigorous evidence generation: this involves not just building proof that a solution works, but also understanding how it performs in real government systems, what makes implementation effective for students, parents and teachers, and what it takes to translate promising solutions into sustained impact at scale.

Five solutions have been selected under EdTech ScaleX, serving children in the 4-10 age group:

1. Chimple by Sutara Learning: Teacher-directed, at-home gamified mobile learning solution; validated by a randomised controlled trial (RCT) by Prof. Kartini Shastry, Wellesley College and Prof. Sheetal Sekhri, University of Virginia (2024)

2. Rocket Learning: Playful, WhatsApp-based home-learning; validated by a J-PAL RCT (2023)

3. Top Parent by Nudged: Pan-India, parent-facing solution for at-home learning; validated by a quasi-experimental study under the guidance of Prof. Tarun Jain, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (2026)

4. Prakashak by ThinkZone: WhatsApp-based at-home learning programme validated by a quasi-experimental study under the guidance of Prof. Tarun Jain, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (2026)

5. Youth Impact: Phone-based remedial Math learning; validated by a five-country RCT by Dr Noam Angrist et al. (2025)

Through its portfolio of five solutions, EdTech ScaleX will aim to improve learning outcomes at scale by targeting 8 million+ students.

Six solutions have been selected under the EdTech Accelerator, serving children in the 4-10 age group:

1. Darsel: 1:1 personalised WhatsApp chatbot for math practice at-home

2. Eedi: AI native WhatsApp based socratic personal tutor for math remediation at-home

3. TARA ORF by Prosical Language Technologies: Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) assessment, analysis, and student remediation at-home

4. PadhAI by Pratham Education Foundation: Offline ORF assessment, analysis, and student remediation at-home

5. Vowels of the People Association (VOPA): ORF assessment, analysis and student remediation for both literacy and numeracy skills at-home

6. VallamAI by Madhi Foundation: AI-powered teacher-support tool for assessments, coaching, and lesson planning

Through the EdTech Accelerator, these six solutions will work on building the evidence and capabilities needed to translate promising innovations into solutions that can ultimately scale.

Together, these 11 solutions will forge a new pathway for EdTech and AI-enabled learning in India, strengthening learning outcomes for millions of children and building the evidence that turns bold ideas into lasting impact at scale.

Ishmeet Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Central Square Foundation, said, "Selecting these 11 solutions is where ShikshaNext's ambition starts to become tangible. Five of them are already backed by independent evidence and are ready to work with governments at scale; the other six are building the next generation of AI-enabled solutions for India's classrooms. Bringing proven, scale-ready solutions together with emerging AI innovations and generating the evidence needed to move both forward is what makes this more than a portfolio of grants. It is a pathway designed to help early stage innovations to travel to institutional state adoption and integration into the governance mechanism."

Prachi Jain Windlass, Head of India, The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, said, "Technology matters when it helps children learn better and opens pathways to future opportunity. Used effectively, technology and data can help educators understand student progress and act quickly when additional support is needed. ShikshaNext brings evidence, innovation, and government adoption together so proven EdTech can benefit more children, while the next generation of AI-enabled solutions is tested and strengthened responsibly.”

B Srinivasan, Executive Lead, Reliance Foundation said, “Reliance Foundation’s vision is simple yet profound that every child in India should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential and realise their dreams. The rapid expansion of digital connectivity and 5G over the past decade has unlocked unprecedented possibilities to deliver quality education to every corner of our country.

We have seen that when philanthropy, government, educators, and innovators come together with shared purpose, technology in education moves beyond promising pilots to achieving measurable learning outcomes at scale. ShikshaNext represents the next step in this journey - a collaborative platform to generate rigorous evidence, strengthen partnerships, and harness the power of AI responsibly and inclusively.

Our commitment is to ensure that the next generation of AI-enabled solutions is not only innovative, but equitable - designed to serve every child, everywhere, and to truly transform India’s educational future.”

Benjamin Piper, Director, Global Education, Gates Foundation, said, "The EdTech Accelerator solutions in particular reflect where we think the real opportunity with generative AI lies - not replacing good pedagogy, but strengthening it, in tools built specifically for low-resource classrooms. Pairing that work with ScaleX's evidence-backed solutions gives ShikshaNext a pipeline that spans from what we know works today to what could work tomorrow."

About ShikshaNext

ShikshaNext is a three-year, Rs 170-crore multi-donor initiative aimed at improving learning outcomes for children across India by leveraging EdTech and AI. Anchored by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, Reliance Foundation, and the Gates Foundation as Founding Strategic Partners, supported by Anthropic as Supporting Partner and led by Central Square Foundation as Managing Partner, ShikshaNext aims to enable more than 13 million children to access meaningful, technology- and AI-enabled learning opportunities by 2029. The initiative operates across three pillars — EdTech ScaleX, the EdTech Accelerator, and the EdTech & AI Innovation Hub — underpinned by a sustained commitment to evidence generation.

About Central Square Foundation

Founded in 2012, Central Square Foundation (CSF) is a non-profit committed to improving learning outcomes for school-going children across 14 Indian states through system-led reform. CSF works in close partnership with 11 state governments to design and deliver statewide missions on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), while strengthening Early Childhood Education. CSF also focuses on building a vibrant EdTech and AI ecosystem to enable equitable, high-quality learning at scale.

More at www.centralsquarefoundation.org

About The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation builds pathways that change lives for people and communities around the world. Through their philanthropy, Michael and Susan Dell have committed more than €10 billion to improve education, health, and economic mobility, with a focus on delivering measurable, long-term impact. These efforts reflect a belief that lasting change comes from investing in people – and in the potential of every child.

For more information, visit www.dell.org and follow the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation on LinkedIn.

About Reliance Foundation

Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Reliance Industries Limited, aims to play a catalytic role in addressing India's development challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions. Led by Mrs Nita M Ambani, Founder and Chairperson, Reliance Foundation works across rural transformation, education, health, sports for development, disaster management, women empowerment, urban renewal, and arts, culture and heritage, and has touched the lives of over 88 million people across India.

More at www.reliancefoundation.org

About Gates Foundation

The Gates Foundation is a global philanthropy working to reduce poverty, tackle preventable disease, and expand opportunity so more people can lead healthy, productive lives. Education is a core pillar of its work, with a Global Education Program focused on improving foundational reading and math for children in India and sub-Saharan Africa.

More at www.gatesfoundation.org

VELS honoured 2,000 outstanding teachers across Tamil Nadu at the Teachers Excellence Awards 2026, celebrated across Periyapalayam, Thiruvanmiyur and Pallavaram

As part of its Teachers’ Day celebrations, VELS organised a series of Teachers’ Excellence Award ceremonies across Thiruvanmiyur, Periyapalayam and Pallavaram, recognising thousands of educators for their dedication, commitment and tireless efforts in shaping the lives and futures of students.

The series began at the VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus, where Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The second edition was held at the VELS Periyapalayam Campus, with Dr. Sowmiya Anbumani, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Dharmapuri Constituency, as the Chief Guest. The celebrations culminated at the VELS Pallavaram Campus with Tmt. Premalatha Vijayakant, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Virudhachalam Constituency and General Secretary, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam, as the Chief Guest.

Celebrating the teachers who shape every profession

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice-President, VELS Group of Institutions, highlighted the unique role played by teachers in shaping individuals and society.

“Teachers work tirelessly for their students, often without expecting recognition or praise. Their contribution goes far beyond the classroom. They guide students, build their confidence, shape their character and help them find the right direction in life.

Our culture has always placed teachers in a position of great respect through the timeless words ‘Matha, Pitha, Guru, Deivam.’ The teaching profession is unique because it creates and nurtures every other profession. Every doctor, engineer, scientist, entrepreneur, administrator and professional begins the journey with a teacher.

Through the VELS Teachers’ Excellence Award, we wish to express our gratitude and recognise educators whose dedication continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of their students,” she said.

Tmt.Premalatha Vijayakant recalls teacher who shaped her journey

Speaking as the Chief Guest at the Pallavaram ceremony, Tmt. Premalatha Vijayakant said “Teachers have the responsibility of guiding students in the right direction. Education is one of the most important foundations of a person’s life. Captain Vijayakant strongly believed in the importance of education and supported thousands of students in pursuing their studies.

Behind every successful student, there is the contribution of a teacher. I still remember my teacher Mr. Loganathan, who moulded me and helped me become the person I am today. He is no more, but I continue to remember him with gratitude. I owe a part of all my success to the teacher who guided and shaped me during my formative years,” she said.

She also encouraged students to actively participate in sports and extracurricular activities, highlighting their role in building confidence, discipline and teamwork.

Congratulating the award recipients, she appreciated the immense contribution of teachers to society and extended her best wishes to the entire teaching community.

The Pallavaram event was attended by Dr. Arthi Ganesh, Pro-Chancellor (Administration); Dr. M. Bhaskaran, Vice-Chancellor (FAC), Dr. M. Chandrasekaran, Registrar,, along with university officials, educators and award recipients.

About Vels University

VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) continues to be recognised as one of the prominent deemed-to-be universities 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. With campuses across Pallavaram, Thalambur, Periyapalayam, Thiruvanmiyur and Adyar, VELS provides students with opportunities to pursue academic learning alongside research, innovation, industry engagement, sports, cultural activities and experiential learning.

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

Quantum Technology Capabilities at MAHE Bengaluru Campus

Four faculty members and seven students completed the specialised programme across India and the Netherlands, gaining hands-on exposure to the complex hardware and engineering systems that support quantum computing. The initiative positions MIT Bengaluru to develop a trained academic and student talent base for Q-Hub from its inception.

The training was conducted in two phases. The first phase at MIT Bengaluru focused on quantum control systems, vacuum technologies, practical vacuum assembly and foundational quantum engineering concepts. The second phase was held at the QuantrolOx laboratory and QuTech at TU Delft, Netherlands, where participants received advanced training from experts working at the forefront of quantum technology.

Faculty members and students gained practical experience in microwave technologies, RF electronics, gas handling systems, dilution refrigerator assembly, cryocooling systems, superconducting quantum processing unit assembly, signal measurement and analysis, and the use of QuantumEDGE software and QBlox modules.

The programme has strengthened the ability of faculty members to teach, mentor and lead research in emerging quantum technologies. For students, it has created an opportunity to move beyond theoretical learning and engage directly with the hardware, control systems and experimental processes involved in quantum computing. The trained cohort will support laboratory instruction, research projects and the operation of critical infrastructure at Q-Hub.

Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, observed, “India’s quantum future depends on meaningful collaboration between academia and industry. At MAHE Bengaluru, Q-Hub will bring faculty, students, researchers and industry partners together to develop talent, address real-world challenges and advance quantum innovation in India.”

Commenting on the initiative and the upcoming launch of Q-Hub, Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, said, “The inauguration of Q-Hub marks a significant milestone in our journey towards building advanced technological capabilities that can contribute meaningfully to India's emerging quantum ecosystem. Q-Hub has been envisioned as much more than a conventional academic laboratory. It brings together quantum computing, superconducting quantum hardware, cryogenic systems, RF and control engineering, research, education, innovation and industry collaboration under a single platform. Our aspiration is to move from learning quantum technology to engineering quantum systems and ultimately creating quantum technologies in India.”

Participants described the programme as an important opportunity to connect quantum concepts with real-world engineering applications. Their exposure to international laboratories and advanced quantum infrastructure deepened their understanding of the design, development and manufacturing of quantum computing components.

Scheduled to be inaugurated on 13 October 2026, Q-Hub Lab will serve as an integrated platform for quantum education, faculty development, student training, research and innovation. By bringing together academia, industry, start-ups, government agencies and international partners, the centre aims to contribute to the development of a skilled quantum workforce and strengthen India’s ambition to build indigenous quantum technologies.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

SLM-MRIIRS has been placed in the 301+ global band, making it one of only five Indian institutions to enter the QS Global MBA Rankings for the first time this year. The School has also been placed 51st in Asia and 9th in India, while securing the 2nd position in India for Diversity.

A total of 19 Indian business schools feature in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2027. The five new Indian entrants this year include O.P. Jindal Global University, Jaipuria Institute of Management, School of Business and Management at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), School of Leadership & Management at MRIIRS, and Vikrant University Gwalior.

In the 301+ global band, SLM-MRIIRS features alongside several long-established names in Indian management education, including IIM Udaipur, IIFT Delhi, Management Development Institute Gurgaon, XLRI – Xavier School of Management, IMT Ghaziabad and K J Somaiya Institute of Management, among others.

The latest Global MBA ranking represents a further expansion of Manav Rachna’s presence across QS benchmarks—from international trade and online management education to the flagship global full-time MBA rankings. It’s Online MBA had gained global recognition through the QS Online MBA Rankings 2026, entering the 76–100 global band, securing the 9th position in the Asia-Pacific region, and being ranked 1st globally for Class Experience.

Dr. Prashant Bhalla, President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, said, “Our entry into the QS Global MBA Rankings is an important recognition of the direction in which management education at Manav Rachna has evolved. We have consistently worked towards creating a learning environment that brings together academic rigour, industry engagement, global exposure, research, entrepreneurship and diversity. This recognition encourages us to further strengthen an ecosystem that prepares our students for meaningful leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.”

Dr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, said, “Management education today must remain closely connected with the realities of industry and the changing nature of business. At Manav Rachna, we have consciously built mechanisms that bring practitioners, corporate leaders and academic experts into continuous dialogue with our students and faculty. The QS recognition is an encouraging validation of this approach.”

A distinctive pillar of this industry-integrated approach is the Strategic Mentoring Board of Manav Rachna, founded and first chaired by the late Padma Shri Dr. Pritam Singh, one of India’s foremost management thinkers and former Director of MDI Gurgaon and IIM Lucknow. The Board was conceived to deepen the interface between academia and industry and to ensure that management education remains continuously informed by changing business realities. Over the years, it has brought senior leaders and practitioners into academic deliberations, mentorship, curriculum inputs and industry engagement at Manav Rachna.

The Strategic Mentoring Board continues to serve as a critical bridge between academic direction and industry practice at the School of Leadership & Management. Its contemporary agenda includes deeper faculty-industry immersion, strengthening Professors of Practice and mentorship-led learning, building thought leadership, workforce readiness, knowledge partnerships and sustained institutional collaboration.

Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Srivastava, Vice Chancellor, MRIIRS, said, “Global rankings benchmark institutions not only on academic outcomes, but on their ability to create measurable impact across employability, research, entrepreneurship, international engagement and diversity. SLM’s debut in the QS Global MBA Rankings reflects years of sustained institution-building and an academic model that deliberately brings together scholarship and practice. We see this recognition as an impetus to raise these benchmarks further.”

The School of Leadership & Management follows an industry-integrated and globally oriented approach to management education. Its portfolio includes MBA programmes with specialisations and industry-linked learning, along with global pathways including the MBA Global dual-degree programmes with KEDGE Business School, France, and Queen Mary University of London. The School also offers programmes incorporating specialised academic and industry collaborations in areas such as business analytics, finance and emerging business domains.

The QS Global MBA Rankings assess programmes across key dimensions including Employability, Return on Investment, Entrepreneurship & Alumni Outcomes, Thought Leadership and Diversity. The strong performance of SLM-MRIIRS on Diversity, where it stands 2nd among Indian institutions, reflects the School's emphasis on varied perspectives and an inclusive management-learning environment. The 2027 ranking comes at a time when India's presence in global management education is expanding substantially. Nineteen Indian institutions now feature in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2027, pointing to the increasing international visibility of Indian business education.

For MRIIRS, the achievement also forms part of a wider global-ranking trajectory. The University made its debut in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is also ranked in the QS Asia University Rankings, further strengthening its international academic presence.

Representatives from In-Solutions Global Ltd, Visa, Indian Bank, Union Bank of India, and Indian Overseas bank

With Visa Payment Passkey, banks and merchants on ISG's payments platform can offer FIDO-based, phishing-resistant authentication for card-not-present transactions — replacing SMS OTPs with a faster sign-in built directly into the checkout flow. The approach is designed to reduce fraud and cart abandonment while aligning with card-network and regulatory direction on strong customer authentication. 

“Visa Payment Passkey gives control of the payment back in the cardholder's hands with additional benefits of higher success ratios and stronger security. That's what builds trust and trust is what drives inclusion. It's the first step into agentic AI in payments, enabling a truly seamless digital payments journey,” said Mrs. Adelia Castelino, Co-Founder & Managing Director, In-Solutions Global (ISG).

“Visa is proud to partner with ISG to enable Visa Payment Passkey for leading issuers in India, advancing a more secure, seamless and trusted digital payments experience. As commerce evolves, this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to embedding trust at the core of every transaction and helping issuers, merchants and consumers embrace the next generation of digital payments with confidence,” said Rishi Chhabra, Country Manager, India, Visa.

The launch reflects a broader industry shift away from OTPs toward passkey — a FIDO Alliance and W3C WebAuthn-based standard already adopted across major platforms — as networks and regulators push for stronger, more usable authentication in digital commerce. For a payments technology provider operating switches, gateways, issuing and acquiring platforms under standards such as PCI DSS and ISO 27001, embedding passkey support directly into the checkout journey lets issuing banks modernise authentication without rebuilding their existing infrastructure.

For ISG, Visa Payment Passkey builds on capabilities already embedded across its issuing and acquiring platforms — including tokenisation and existing authentication tooling — extending that foundation to FIDO Alliance-based passkey standards. The shift is designed to lift authentication success ratios and ease adoption for cardholders and merchants alike, while laying the groundwork for the next phase of digital commerce, in which software agents may initiate payments on a customer's behalf within secure, verifiable authentication frameworks. ISG and Visa see passkey as an early step toward safe, secure agentic payments — pairing Visa's network capabilities with ISG's payments infrastructure to advance security and customer experience together, as complementary priorities rather than a trade-off.

ISG and Visa intend to share further detail on rollout timelines and participating issuers. Consistent with ISG's practice, the companies are highlighting capabilities that are live or in confirmed delivery. Participating issuers include Union Bank of India, Central Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, Indian Overseas Bank and Indian Bank.

About In-Solutions Global (ISG)
In-Solutions Global (ISG) is a global payments technology and infrastructure company, founded in 2004 and headquartered in Mumbai, India. ISG enables banks, fintechs, merchants, corporates and governments with secure, scalable solutions across the payments value chain, spanning issuing, acquiring, reconciliation, payment orchestration, fraud and risk management, card management, digital payments and cross-border payments. With a growing presence across India, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, APAC and Europe, ISG combines deep payments expertise with regulatory capabilities and technology innovation. In India, ISG is authorised by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a Payment Aggregator for Online, Physical/Offline and Cross-Border payments, and also holds a Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) authorisation. Through its presence in GIFT City, Gujarat, and its IFSCA licence, ISG is also building capabilities to serve international and cross-border payment requirements. ISG is a recognised Technology Service Provider for RuPay, Visa and Mastercard and is certified to PCI DSS, PCI SSF, ISO 27001 and ISO 27701. Learn more at www.insolutionsglobal.com.

Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon hosts the Data, Governance & the SDGs: A Sustainability Symposium in New Delhi

The symposium was inaugurated by Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India; Ms. Eunsong Kim, Programme Specialist and Chief of Sector for Social and Human Sciences, UNESCO; and Ms. Anna Roy, Senior Advisor & Head, Women Entrepreneurship Programme, NITI Aayog.

Opening the symposium, Dr. Saurabh Garg emphasised the importance of making data more timely, granular and interoperable for effective policymaking. “If data is too dated, no one wants to use it. It's fresh data that everyone wants to use,” he said, adding that better data systems would be critical to making development decisions more targeted and effective as India works towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Ms. Eunsong Kim emphasised the need to ensure that technological progress contributes to inclusive and sustainable development. “The question before us is not simply how much AI we can develop, but whether and how AI can accelerate progress towards the SDGs without reproducing and deepening existing inequalities,” she said.

The symposium also marked the launch of Data Science for Sustainable Development Goals: Indian Case Studies, edited by Dr. Bappaditya Mukhopadhyay, Professor, Analytics, Great Lakes Gurgaon, and Dr. Avik Sarkar, Visiting Faculty & Senior Researcher, ISB. The book brings together Indian case studies demonstrating how data science can be applied to address development challenges and support evidence-based decision-making.

The event featured a session on data-driven governance, with experts from government, academia, philanthropy and civil society examining how data can improve public policy and service delivery. Ms. Anna Roy highlighted the need to make public data more accessible and usable, saying, “Data is a whole ecosystem. We get enamoured by the platforms and the nice tools, but we forget the tragedy of data collection and the drudgery of maintaining quality.”

The newly launched ESG whitepaper is based on a closed-door CXO roundtable held on May 22, 2026, on International Biodiversity Day, in collaboration with Development Alternatives and knowledge partner Pierag Consulting. The subsequent ESG fireside chat, moderated by Dr. Sanghamitra Bhattacharyya, Great Lakes Gurgaon, brought together Kunwar Himmat Singh, Director – Corporate Affairs, ESG & CSR, Nestle India, and E. Nagachandran, Deputy Director, Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The discussion examined the evolution of ESG beyond compliance and disclosure, with a focus on business resilience, responsible governance, sector-specific approaches and long-term value creation.

Kunwar Himmat Singh highlighted the growing business relevance of ESG, saying, “ESG is no longer a gesture of compliance. It is a business resilience agenda, it is about the very survival of an organization.” E. Nagachandran emphasised the need for a calibrated regulatory approach, noting, “You cannot have the same set of guidelines governing a company that manufactures plastic and one that mines coal.”

Dr. Sanghamitra Bhattacharyya, Great Lakes Gurgaon, said: “The discussion reinforces the need for multiple actors to work in partnership national and civil society organisations, ministries and corporates so that we can work together in synergy to achieve these outcomes.”

The Sustainability Index, developed by the Great Lakes Gurgaon Data Lab, uses satellite data to map three indicators – nightlight, GHG emissions and soil moisture - with economic activity and regional development across India. The underlying datasets and code have been made publicly available, enabling researchers and users to analyse other environmental indicators and contribute to the repository.

The symposium concluded with a panel on “Importance of Data in Driving Sustainability,” bringing together experts from academia, industry, government affairs and the energy and climate sector to discuss how reliable data can strengthen sustainability measurement and decision-making.

Through the symposium and its research initiatives, Great Lakes Gurgaon continues to build collaboration between academia, government and industry to apply data and technology to real-world sustainability and development challenges.

About Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon
Established in 2010, Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon is a premier business school dedicated to shaping business-ready leaders for the dynamic corporate landscape. In 2019, Great Lakes Gurgaon received the AMBA UK accreditation and in 2026 it received the AACSB US accreditation - making it the youngest B-school in India to receive this 'double crown' of global accreditations. The institute has swiftly risen to prominence by being the first in India to introduce full-time specializations in Analytics, AI, and Machine Learning, preparing professionals to lead effectively in today’s evolving global business environment.

Learn more at www.greatlakes.edu.in./gurgaon.

Welcoming the inaugural Class of 2029

Two things anchored the orientation: a hands-on AI session that ran identically at all four campuses, and a guest programme of senior industry practitioners built city by city. Students at every campus began their degree having done the same practical work, with the same tools, in the same week.

The hands-on session was led by Priteesh Joshi, Associate Director, AI Learning, Stride School of Business, and put students to work across NotebookLM, Gamma and Gemini Canvas. They researched a topic and turned the output into images, mind maps, a video, a podcast and a set of quizzes. Then came the real test: building a presentation on the same brief across Claude, Gemini and Gamma, presenting it to the class, and arguing out which tool suited which task. At Delhi NCR, students also built a working website inside the session. In Jaipur, students built an app, then shot, edited and presented vlogs about their first days at the school. Priteesh Joshi also walked each batch through the three-year academic plan, laying out what each year covers and how AI threads through it.

On the ground, the guest programme ran campus by campus. At Delhi NCR, Mayank Agarwal, VP/Head of Marketing at The Man Company (a part of Emami Group), spoke in a fireside conversation on building a D2C brand from scratch, including which parts of brand-building AI has already taken over. Aditya Malhotra, DGM Product at Airtel Digital, ran a masterclass on how product teams decide whether to pursue or kill an idea.

Pune’s fireside conversation, “The Face of Business and Entrepreneurship Changing with the Evolution of AI,” featured Sudarshan Mahabal, AI and Technology Leader at Xoriant, and Prayag Dwivedi, Community Manager at Emergent. Girish Chhabra, VP and Global Practice Head for Data and AI at Atos, led a masterclass on agentic AI and set students an assignment to complete afterward. Jayesh Atal, Strategy, Marketing and Operations at KPIT, made the case for why AI won’t replace them, and walked through the practical reasoning behind it.

Bangalore brought together Aastha Shree, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, and Laveena Lobo, Partner at Insist Consulting, for a fireside chat on AI, careers, leadership and the changing nature of work in a world of AI. Uttaran Nayak, Co-Founder & CEO of Alchemyst AI, led a masterclass asking “What does a business look like when AI is built into everything?” And Gaurav Ranjan, Principal at Prime Venture Partners, joined a fireside chat on entrepreneurship and why investors and venture capital matter to the companies students may one day build.

At Jaipur, Radhesh Sirohiya, Co-Founder of Shyle, joined a fireside conversation on entrepreneurship and e-commerce, fielding questions on the practical challenges of building a business.

The four campuses sit at HiTech Group of Institutions (Delhi NCR), Rathinam School of Business (Bangalore), Ajeenkya DY Patil University (Pune) and Jagannath University (Jaipur). Students earn their BBA from the partner institution at each campus, while the programme, curriculum and learning model belong to Stride School of Business.

Every student received a personal Apple MacBook in their welcome kit on day one. Each campus carries an identical set of spaces: AI Launchpad, Collab Zone, Podcast Studio, Pitch Tank, AI Forum and Smart Classrooms, used for classes, project work, presentations and collaboration.

Piyush Nangru, Founder, Stride School of Business, said, “A school’s first batch usually takes years to build. Ours came together in four cities at the same time, around a straightforward argument: business education should now be taught with AI inside the work, not alongside it. The appetite for that has moved faster than the sector has. ASCENT ’26 was built to match it, which is why the same programme ran in all four cities in the same week rather than as four separate welcomes.”

Anmol Jain, Founding Director, Stride School of Business, said, “We could have spent three days telling this batch what Stride School of Business is. We decided to show them instead. They sat with people whose own jobs are being changed by AI and then we put them in front of the same tools and asked them to make something. By the third day every student had built something of their own. For a first batch, in a first week, that is exactly the beginning we wanted them to have.”

With ASCENT ’26 behind them, the Class of 2029 begins a three-year programme where AI runs alongside business fundamentals, practical projects and industry exposure, as part of how students learn concepts, develop ideas and solve problems, not a layer on top of it.

About Stride School of Business
Stride School of Business is an AI-first undergraduate business school with campuses in Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Pune and Jaipur. Its three-year programme is built around a learning-by-doing model combining business fundamentals, AI, practical projects and industry exposure. Students earn an AICTE-approved and UGC-recognised BBA degree from the partner institution at their campus.

Impact Focused Entrepreneurship workshop for educators with NCERT Expert and Entrepreneurs at ARCH Campus, Jaipur

As part of the international initiative, ARCH is bringing its expertise in design education, design-led innovation, creative entrepreneurship and sustainability to a collaborative European education ecosystem. The programme brings together partners from four countries — Belgium, Finland, Denmark and India — involving eight higher education institutions, creating opportunities for cross-border knowledge exchange and collaboration around new approaches to entrepreneurship education.
 

A key responsibility for ARCH within Co-LIFE is its leadership of Work Package 4, which focuses on developing a collaborative network involving businesses, non-academic organisations and other stakeholders. Through this role, ARCH is contributing to stronger connections between education, industry, entrepreneurship and the wider creative ecosystem, with a focus on developing learning approaches that can create meaningful impact.
 

As part of its Co-LIFE engagement, ARCH recently hosted an Entrepreneurship & Industry Interaction Workshop for Teachers, bringing together 45+ teachers and academics from 25 schools. The workshop focused on Impact-Focused Entrepreneurship (IFE), Design Thinking and the role of industry-linked learning in school education, exploring ways to make learning more creative, practical and connected to the real world.
 

The workshop brought the concept of Impact-Focused Entrepreneurship to life through real-world case studies. ARCH facilitated case studies of Jaipur Rugs, Kalpana Handmade Paper, Neeraja Blue Pottery and Jaipur Bloc, enabling participants to understand how design, innovation, sustainability, traditional knowledge and entrepreneurship can come together to create meaningful impact. The case studies also demonstrated how real business experiences can be translated into practical learning frameworks for students.
 

The workshop was led by Dr. Shipra Vaidya, Co-head, Faculty of Commerce, NCERT, who travelled from Delhi to Jaipur to conduct the session. The workshop encouraged educators to explore multidisciplinary approaches to entrepreneurship education and consider how Design Thinking can help students identify problems, ask meaningful questions, explore possibilities and develop innovative solutions.
 

Ms. Archana Surana, Founder, ARCH College of Design & Business, highlighted ARCH’s continuing Design Culture Initiative, which focuses on bringing Design Thinking and design sensibilities into school education. She encouraged educators to explore diverse design domains, including Service Design, Sustainable Design, Emotional Design and Systems Design, while introducing young learners to design-led problem-solving.
 

The programme also brought together entrepreneurs and education practitioners, including Nishant Patni, Founder, Hello English–CultureAlley; Divya Arora, Co-Founder, Kesar Sweets, Jaipur; Shekhar Gattani, Founder, Imlee Jaipur; and Sandeep Sethi, creator of the Jaipur Educational Festival. Their experiences provided educators with practical perspectives on entrepreneurship, employability, innovation, adaptability and problem-solving.
 

The workshop further explored the transformative potential of NEP 2020, particularly its emphasis on multidisciplinary and flexible learning. Educators were encouraged to connect industries with NCERT subjects, develop emerging business ideas, products or job roles, and identify ways in which such real-world connections could be integrated into classroom learning.
 

ARCH’s involvement in Co-LIFE reinforces its larger vision of making design education more relevant, interdisciplinary and impact-oriented. By bringing together design thinking, entrepreneurship and sustainability, ARCH aims to encourage learners and educators to move beyond conventional classroom approaches and engage with real-world challenges.
 

Through its leadership of Work Package 4, ARCH is contributing to the development of stronger networks between higher education institutions, businesses, non-academic organisations and other stakeholders. This international collaboration reflects ARCH’s broader purpose of connecting design, education, entrepreneurship, industry and sustainability to prepare learners for a rapidly evolving world.
 

As part of the ongoing Co-LIFE international engagement, Ms. Archana Surana, Founder, ARCH College of Design & Business, will travel to Finland as both a speaker and panellist, representing ARCH in the programme’s international academic engagements. On 21 September 2026, she will be at Laurea University of Applied Sciences as a speaker, presenting ARCH’s perspective and work around design-led education, impact-focused entrepreneurship and creative innovation. On 22 September 2026, she will participate in engagements at Laurea University of Applied Sciences, Vantaa, and LAB University of Applied Sciences, Lahti, including a panel discussion. Her participation will further strengthen ARCH’s contribution to the Co-LIFE programme and facilitate knowledge exchange between Indian and European higher education institutions.
 

Through its participation in Erasmus+ Co-LIFE, ARCH College of Design & Business continues to strengthen its international engagement while contributing an Indian perspective to the evolving global conversation around design-led education, impact-focused entrepreneurship, creative innovation and sustainability.

Become a B2B Partner with a Leading EdTech Platform

The program allows educators, career counsellors, alumni networks, coaching institutes, colleges, and companies to refer students to EasyShiksha's catalog of over 1,500 active courses and earn a commission on resulting enrollments — without taking on any responsibility for course delivery, certification, or student support, which remain entirely EasyShiksha's own.

A Commission Model Built to Compound
Commission under the program scales with referral volume, starting at 15% for partners referring up to 100 paid students per month and rising to 30% for partners exceeding 1,000 referrals monthly.

The program's central feature, according to the company, is that commission attribution does not expire after a student's first purchase. Once a student is linked to a partner's referral code, any future enrollment that student makes — a second certification, an internship, or a subscription — continues to generate commission for the original referring partner, with no requirement to refer that student again.

"We've always believed the best way to reach students isn't more advertising — it's people who are already trusted by the students who need us. Building a commission model that pays for the long term, not just the first referral, was our way of actually committing to that belief instead of just stating it," said Sunil Sharma, CEO, EasyShiksha

Open to Individuals and Institutions Alike
The program is structured to accommodate two categories of partners on identical commercial terms: individuals — such as educators, counsellors, and alumni with an existing network — and institutions, including coaching centres, colleges, placement offices, and companies referring in bulk. Applications are free, and the company states that approved partners typically gain access to their referral dashboard within one to two business days of applying.

Partners are provided with a real-time dashboard showing referral activity, current commission tier, and payout history, along with marketing materials and message templates intended to reduce the effort required to begin referring students.

Availability
The B2B Partner Program is open for applications now, for both India-based and international applicants, with payouts available via bank transfer or PayPal depending on the partner's location. Full program details, commission tiers, and the application process are available at www.easyshiksha.com/b2b-partners.

About EasyShiksha
EasyShiksha is an online education platform offering certification courses, internship programs, and certifications in association with partner universities, spanning technology, business, and professional-skills subjects. EasyShiksha is operated by EdSpectra Global Private Limited.

Kaziah Liz Mejo was honoured for her inspiring journey from the law classroom to the national pageant stage

The felicitation took place during the inauguration of ERAYA’26, the cultural festival of MLS at MAHE Bengaluru, celebrating talent, creativity and culture. Kaziah was honoured for her inspiring journey from the law classroom to the national pageant stage. She is now preparing to represent India at the global Miss Universe competition later this year.

At nineteen, while pursuing her legal education, Kaziah made history as the first woman from Kerala to win the Miss Universe India title. As she prepares to compete on one of the world’s most recognised stages, her journey is a striking example of how ambition can take many forms. Her achievement has brought immense pride to her peers, faculty members and the wider MAHE Bengaluru community.

Currently in the third semester of the BA LLB programme, Kaziah has balanced her academic commitments with her passion for fashion and public engagement. At MLS, she has been an active member of the RUBARU fashion team and is known among her faculty members and peers as a polite, studious and approachable student. Her faculty members also recognise her as a strong team player with excellent communication skills, qualities that have helped her navigate both her academic journey and the competitive world of pageantry.

Reflecting on her journey, Kaziah Liz Mejo said, “My journey has taught me that success is not just about wearing a crown, it is about perseverance, overcoming challenges and continuously striving to become the best version of yourself. As a student of Manipal Law School at MAHE Bengaluru, I have learned the value of resilience, discipline and confidence. I am proud to carry these lessons with me as I represent India on the global stage.”

Speaking at the felicitation, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, said, “A crown brings attention. Character decides what that attention can become. Kaziah’s journey tells every student that confidence is not the absence of uncertainty, it is the decision not to let uncertainty have the final word. Her achievement enlarges the horizon of what the next young woman may permit herself to imagine.”

Commenting on her achievement, Prof. Dr. Sarasu Esther Thomas, Director, Manipal Law School, said, “Manipal Law School is proud of Kaziah’s achievement. She epitomises our law students, studying and playing hard, whether on the sports field, in moot courts or in pageantry.”

Kaziah’s journey challenges the narrow idea that a young person must choose only one version of herself. As a law student, performer, model and public representative, she has pursued her diverse interests with preparation, courage, discipline and a strong sense of purpose. Her achievement reflects the belief that education should give students intellectual confidence and moral courage to realise their potential without limiting their talents to a single field.

For Manipal Law School, the crown represents more than a title. It is a celebration of a student who dared to pursue a dream beyond the conventional boundaries of a law classroom. Her achievement also reflects the spirit of holistic development encouraged at MAHE Bengaluru, where students are given the space to discover their strengths, pursue diverse interests and build confidence alongside their academic and professional journeys.

As Kaziah prepares to represent India internationally, the Manipal Law School and MAHE Bengaluru communities celebrate this significant milestone and extend their best wishes to her for the journey ahead.

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

Dr Ranjan R. Pai, President, MAHE Trust, with the beneficiary family at the launch of the housing initiative for families of economically weaker students in Manipal

MAHE has joined hands with Yakshagana Kalaranga to construct 50 affordable homes for economically disadvantaged families of deserving students across Udupi district in next five years.

The project reflects MAHE’s commitment to extending its charitable activities beyond education and to supporting the well-being of deserving members of the community. The initiative will identify eligible beneficiaries based on defined criteria, with priority given to economically weaker families of deserving students. MAHE will oversee the construction of the houses and hand over the completed homes to the selected beneficiaries without any financial burden on them.

Launching the initiative, Dr. Ranjan R. Pai, President of MAHE Trust, reaffirmed MAHE’s commitment to inclusive community development through social impact initiatives. To mark the launch, house construction confirmation letters were handed over to two families on Thursday.

Speaking on the initiative, Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Education can transform lives, but meaningful social development also requires us to address the basic needs that enable families to live with dignity and security. Through this initiative, the MAHE seeks to extend its commitment to social responsibility by providing deserving families with a safe, permanent home.”

The initiative reflects the MAHE’s continuing commitment to community welfare and inclusive development, extending its charitable efforts beyond education to address the essential needs of economically disadvantaged families.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

MUJ Excellence Awards 2026 - Dignitaries inaugurating the ceremony

A total of 376 awards were presented across nine categories, recognising individuals for their academic contributions, research achievements, professional excellence, long-standing service and exceptional commitment to the University. Of these, 123 employees were honoured with the prestigious Dr. Ramdas M. Pai Award for Professional Excellence (9 Box).

The other award categories included the Academic Excellence Award, Research Excellence Award, Young Researcher Award, Young Teacher Award, Standing Ovation Award for Longest Serving Employees, Key Enabler Award, Incredible Service Award, and Research Track Faculty Award.

The ceremony was graced by President, Manipal University Jaipur, Dr. N. N. Sharma; Pro-President Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana; Registrar Dr. Amit Soni; Provost Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar; Head HR Ms. Kananjeet Kaur, Ms. Manju Sharma and Ms. Sikha Rana along with the University’s Deans, Directors and Heads of Departments. Their presence reflected the University's collective appreciation of the people whose sustained efforts contribute to its academic, research, administrative and operational excellence.

The day marked another significant milestone for the University as Manipal University Jaipur received the prestigious QS 5-Star Rating, adding a global dimension to the celebrations. The University community welcomed the recognition with enthusiasm, spirit and jubilation. The achievement marked an important moment in MUJ’s continuing journey towards global academic excellence and institutional recognition.

This recognition reflects excellence across the breadth of the university experience, with every dimension measured against global benchmarks — from Teaching and Research to Online Learning, Employability, Facilities, Good Governance, Environment Impact, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer, Academic Development and Global Engagement.

Congratulating the University community on the occasion, Dr. N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, appreciated the collective efforts of the faculty members, researchers, staff, students and University leadership. He congratulated the entire MUJ community for their tireless efforts and commitment that have contributed to the University’s continued growth and its global recognition.

The celebration also featured vibrant cultural performances by faculty members and students, adding colour and spirit to the occasion. The performances reflected the creative energy and strong sense of community that characterises campus life at MUJ.

The Excellence Award Ceremony thus became a celebration of both people and progress—honouring the individuals who drive the University's success while commemorating a major global achievement. The convergence of the Founder Chancellor’s 91st birthday, the recognition of 376 members of the MUJ family and the University’s QS 5-Star Rating made the occasion a memorable celebration of excellence, dedication and collective achievement.

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit – jaipur.manipal.edu.

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham secured 2nd place nationally at ISRO Robotics Challenge 2026, winning a Rs 7 lakh cash prize

The award was presented on August 23 in Ahmedabad during the National Space Day celebrations. The team received the prize from Gujarat Cabinet Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia and ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan, in the presence of Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

The 10-member student team includes Tanush J, Shakti Sree Kumaran, Sanjay Sree, Ram Sreekanth, Kevin Victor, Kavish V, N. Sunil Varma, Manoj Gangadharan, Rahothaman M, and Dharmadashan. They were guided by mentors Dr. Piyush Pratap Singh and Dr. Abhishek Jha.

Nearly 600 teams from across India participated in the competition, with only 20 making it to the final stage. The final field evaluation took place from July 21 to 23 at the UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru.

For the final challenge, the students had to design autonomous drones and base stations capable of surveying, navigating, landing, and transmitting data in areas without GPS access. Their technology was designed to help support future space and planetary exploration missions.

Launched in 2024 to honor the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, the annual IRoC-U competition aims to encourage scientific and technological talent among young innovators across the country.

About Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a multi-disciplinary, research-intensive private university with a student strength of over 31,000, supported by more than 2,150 faculty members. Accredited with the highest ‘A++’ grade by NAAC, Amrita offers more than 300 undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs spanning diverse fields, including Engineering, Management, Medical Sciences, Ayurveda, Life Sciences, Physical and Agricultural Sciences, Law, Arts & Humanities, and Social & Behavioral Sciences.

With a network of ten campuses located in Amaravati, Amritapuri, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Kochi, Mysuru, Nagercoil, NCR Delhi (Faridabad), and Haridwar, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham stands among India’s leading private universities. Spanning over 1,200 acres with more than 10 million square feet of built-up area, the university is distinguished for its commitment to academic excellence and consistently ranks among the top private institutions in the country, reinforcing its reputation as a premier center for quality education.

Aditya Birla Capital unveils ‘Agentic AI for Bharat’s BFSI: A Practitioner’s View’

Click here to download the whitepaper

The whitepaper presents a fundamental shift in financial inclusion, from providing access to the depth of offering. With access to financial services having expanded significantly, the next frontier lies in helping customers understand, adopt and appropriately use products that are relevant to their financial needs.

The whitepaper also explores how Agentic AI can make personalised guidance, engagement, onboarding and servicing more economically viable at scale, enabling financial institutions to reach wider customer segments and serve them better.

Mr. Pankaj Gadgil, MD & CEO, Aditya Birla Housing Finance Limited and Head, Digital Platforms and Payments Strategy, Aditya Birla Capital, said, “Our vision is to build a future-ready, scalable enterprise where intelligence, foresight, and customer-first approach drive decision making. Through our AI-first strategy, we are simplifying customer journeys, accelerating product innovation, automating underwriting, enhancing service delivery, and delivering greater operational efficiency. Responsible AI is a core enterprise capability for us to drive sustainable scale, trust, and resilience. As we evolve from individual AI use cases to enterprise-wide connected intelligence, robust governance, human accountability, and customer trust will remain fundamental to how we innovate, grow, and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Drawing from Aditya Birla Capital’s experience, the whitepaper presents eight areas of Agentic AI deployment across the enterprise, from orchestration of customer journeys, tele-sales and cross-sell, top-of-funnel engagement, customer service and retention, sales coaching, marketing and personalisation, software development, and audit, finance, investment and compliance. Several of these initiatives are already operating in production and demonstrate how AI can be embedded into end-to-end workflows rather than deployed as standalone point solutions.

Agentic AI in Action: Areas of Deployment at Aditya Birla Capital

A central proposition of the whitepaper is that the value of Agentic AI should be measured not just through efficiency gains, but through its ability to deepen financial participation and augment human capacity to potentially serve more customers. It examines what it takes to move from AI experimentation to responsible enterprise-scale deployment. It highlights the importance of trusted data, connected systems, workflow redesign, workforce readiness and clearly defined human decision rights. It also highlights responsible AI practices including traceability, monitoring, accountability, security and data protection by design.

At the Global Fintech Fest 2026, Aditya Birla Capital won the ‘Best Digital Transformation Program’ award under Excellence in Banking Technology for its use of Generative AI, intelligent automation and real-time data insights to streamline processes, enhance customer experience, and make finance simpler, smarter and more connected.

Through ‘Agentic AI for Bharat’s BFSI: A Practitioner’s View,’ Aditya Birla Capital brings together its experience and learnings from scaling AI across the enterprise, offering a practitioner’s perspective on how financial institutions can build the capabilities required to move from individual AI use cases to responsible, scalable deployment, with customer outcomes and human judgement at the core.

Aditya Birla Capital Limited and its subsidiaries/JVs provide a comprehensive suite of financial solutions across Loans, Investments, Insurance, and Payments to serve the diverse needs of customers across their lifecycles. Powered by over 66,500 employees, the businesses of ABCL have a nationwide reach with over 1,759 branches and more than 200,000 agents/channel partners along with several bank partners. ABCL and its subsidiaries/JVs manage aggregate assets under management of about Rs. 7.53 Lakh Crore, and the consolidated lending book crossed Rs. 2.19 Lakh Crore as of June 30, 2026 www.adityabirlacapital.com.

This AI integration is a ready-to-use plugin, rather than a developer tool. So far, connecting a demat and trading account to an AI assistant typically meant opening advanced or developer settings and manually adding server configuration details. Bajaj Broking's plugin sits directly inside ChatGPT's built-in plugin directory, where any user can find it, connect their demat and trading account securely using two-factor authentication, and start asking questions in under a minute.
 

The solution is expected to benefit a wide range of users, including active retail investors and traders seeking quicker access to portfolio information, technology-savvy investors exploring AI-powered tools, young professionals looking for smarter ways to track investments, and developers or algo traders looking to use market data.
 

"Investors today expect information on their own terms, instantly, in plain language, wherever they already are," said Anurag Misra, Chief Technology Officer, Bajaj Broking.

“Technology is most powerful when it removes friction rather than adding another layer of complexity. This launch is about making an emerging technology relevant to the everyday investor and creating a more intuitive way to access information that already belongs to them,” he added.

The Bajaj Broking plugin is now available for customers and can be connected directly through ChatGPT.

Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Registrar, SRM University-AP, with TechnoSmile leadership, university leaders and students from the Placement Drive
 

Techno Smile conducted a two-day job fair on SRM AP campus, on September 10 and 11. Through this initiative, seventeen engineering students from the University's 2027 Destination Japan graduating batch were selected for international career tracks, the first tangible milestone toward the fifty opportunities promised for 2028. This success stems from a collaboration formally set in motion on June 2, when a delegation from Techno Smile visited the SRM AP campus to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the University, signed on behalf of the institution by Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Registrar of SRM University-AP. It laid the foundation for what both sides described as a long-term collaboration, with Techno Smile setting out an ambitious vision, to create fifty career opportunities for SRM AP engineering students by 2028.

That commitment was carried forward on August 6, when Mr Sankar Karunanidhi, Country Manager at SRM Global Consulting Pvt Ltd, travelled to Techno Smile's Aichi Head Office in Nagoya to meet Mr Ryoma Yoshinaga, Managing Executive Officer of the company's Technology Business Division, and Mr Syuntaro Suzuki, Deputy Head of the same division. Their discussions centred on the practical steps needed to turn the partnership's early promise into a functioning hiring pipeline for SRM AP students.

TechnoSmile’s senior management interacts with 1,000+ engineering students on career opportunities in Japan
 

On campus, the University's Corporate Relations and Career Services team, led by Dr M S Vivekanandan, Director of Corporate Relations and Career Services, along with Mr Jotish Kumar, CEO of SRM Global Consulting, as part of the Destination Japan programme, undertook the task of preparing students for a recruitment process shaped by Japanese hiring conventions. Led by the CRCS team, the programme combines Japanese-style interview training, technical readiness, and communication coaching, equipping graduating batches to compete confidently for international placements and reflecting the University's commitment to global careers. Over the following weeks after the visit, students were trained in the technical competencies the industry expects, and the finer points of self-introduction and communication, training meant to make them genuinely ready for these roles.

The partnership's reach, however, extends well beyond those directly selected. During their visit on September 10th and 11th, Techno Smile's senior management engaged with over a thousand first- and second-year engineering students, introducing them to the possibilities that a career in Japan might hold and encouraging them to weigh the option seriously as they progress through their studies, an exercise in early awareness as much as recruitment.

The University remains committed to building similar pathways that place its students within international industries and careers extending past national borders: from SRM University-AP to Japan, building careers without borders.

PaisaBack Credit Card offers 7.5% cashback on eligible online and offline grocery purchases, across leading supermarkets
 

The card was launched by Paisabazaar, Federal Bank and NPCI at the Global Fintech Festival in Mumbai. The Paisaback Credit Card offers 7.5% cashback on eligible online and offline grocery purchases, across leading supermarkets such as Reliance Fresh, DMart, Star Bazaar and Nature's Basket, as well as quick-commerce platforms including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket.

The credit card would be available on the RuPay network, and offers 1% cashback on eligible POS and e-commerce transactions and 0.5% cashback on eligible UPI transactions above Rs. 2,000. Cashback is credited as Cash Points directly to the customer's account, which can be redeemed conveniently.

The card comes with a joining and annual fee of Rs. 500, which is waived on annual spends of Rs. 1.5 lakh or more.

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, "Credit card rewards are most valuable when they translate into meaningful savings on expenses consumers make every month. Grocery spending is a significant and recurring expense for households, but card rewards around it have been traditionally limited. The Paisaback Credit Card makes everyday shopping more rewarding, while additional cashback on other purchases and UPI transactions enhances the value further. Our partnership with Federal Bank brings together our understanding of consumer spending behaviour to co-create a product that’s built around how consumers actually spend."

Saugata Basu, Senior Vice President and Head, Retail – Cards and Personal Loans, Federal Bank, said, “At Federal Bank, we believe the most impactful financial products are those that seamlessly fit into customers' everyday lives. The Paisaback Credit Card has been crafted to reward customers where they spend most often, particularly on essential categories such as groceries, while extending value across a broader range of everyday transactions. In partnership with Paisabazaar, we are bringing customers a proposition that is built around convenience, relevance, and meaningful savings. We believe this product will redefine how customers perceive value from their everyday spending.”

Key Features of Paisaback Credit Card

• 7.5% cashback on eligible grocery purchases made online and offline at merchants such as Reliance Fresh, DMart, Star Bazaar, Nature's Basket, Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket

• 1% cashback on eligible POS and e-commerce spends

• 0.5% cashback on eligible UPI transactions above Rs. 2,000, excluding grocery, fuel and travel categories

• Cashback credited as Cash Points, with a validity of one year

• Maximum cashback benefit of Rs. 1,000 per month across eligible transactions

• Fuel surcharge waiver of up to Rs. 100 per billing cycle

• Annual fee waiver on annual spends of Rs. 1.5 lakh or more

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s leading marketplace for financial products and a free credit score platform. Over the last 12+ years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust and goodwill of over 58 million consumers from 850 cities and towns across India. Paisabazaar has built wide and deep partnerships across the ecosystem, to offer a broad range of financial products, ranging from loans and cards to investments and savings along with bill payments and mobile recharge. The platform also enables consumers to check their free credit score from all 4 CICs (Credit Bureaus) in India. Paisabazaar is an ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

In Picture: Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi (L); Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost, Education and Student Experience, UCL
 

The extension was formally signed in Mumbai on 20 August 2026 by Professor Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost (Education and Student Experience), UCL, and Vanita Uppal OBE, Director of The British School New Delhi.
 

Since its inception in 2024, the UCL India Summer School has grown into a distinctive academic experience for students from across India. Hosted at The British School New Delhi, the programme brings UCL academics and pre-university students together for an immersive week of research-led teaching, high-level critical thinking and multidisciplinary learning.
 

Over the past three years, students have engaged with academics from ten UCL faculty through lectures, workshops and discussion-based learning, exploring disciplines ranging from law and psychology to technology, urban studies and sustainability. With small class sizes and direct interaction with UCL faculty, the programme gives students a rare opportunity to step beyond the school curriculum and experience the intellectual rigour and excitement of a high-quality university education.
 

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director of The British School New Delhi, said, “The UCL-TBS partnership is fuelled by our shared values and a passionate commitment to bring a stellar pre-university academic experience to students from across the country here in New Delhi. Over the last three years, I have seen first-hand the phenomenal impact the summer school has had on participating students, both in terms of the academic challenge they experienced and equally in their thorough enjoyment of the pedagogical approaches adopted by the faculty. It is a unique and thoughtfully curated opportunity and a ‘must do’ for students who are curious, academically ambitious and ready to be challenged and inspired.”
 

In picture: The 2026 cohort of the UCL India Summer School at The British School New Delhi
 

The partnership takes on added significance in 2026 as UCL celebrates its bicentenary, marking 200 years of advancing knowledge, driving innovation and expanding access to education. The Summer School reflects a shared vision between UCL and The British School New Delhi, of education that opens doors, broadens perspectives and empowers young people to engage meaningfully with the world around them.
 

Professor Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost (Education and Student Experience), UCL, said, "The UCL India Summer School “is an opportunity for high school students from across India who are looking to apply to world-leading universities to be exposed to high-level critical thinking and research-led teaching delivered by UCL staff.”
 

With the partnership now extended to 2029, students across India will continue to have the opportunity to learn from leading academics, explore new fields of study and experience the curiosity, rigour and multidisciplinary thinking that define the UCL academic experience.
 

The next three years promise to build on an already successful partnership, creating new opportunities for young people to broaden their academic horizons and understand what their future might hold.

About University College London (UCL)

UCL is a global top 10 university, set up in London 200 years ago to offer education for all. Today, we gather 60,000 staff and students, from over 150 countries, to create a unique city within a city – a research and innovation powerhouse that leads the world in subjects spanning the arts, sciences, technology and the humanities. We’ve nurtured 33 Nobel Prize winners, because here, brave ideas have the scale and the support they need to succeed. We are University College London. And here, it can happen.
 

For more information, please visit ucl.ac.uk.
 

About The British School New Delhi

The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award-winning school offers high-quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. 
 

For more information, please visit www.british-school.org.

Haus of Intelligence, an AI education technology company powered by LanceMart AI, today announced that it has crossed 1,000 enrolments in the first cohort of its Agentic AI Mastery Program. This milestone further establishes it as Bharat's Biggest Agentic AI Program. It also reflects the growing recognition among learners across the country that Agentic AI is no longer optional knowledge, but a foundational skill for the future of work.
 

Over 1,000 learners enrolled for the 28-week Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program

The Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program is a structured 28-week regime built around three progressive cohorts, AI Builder, AI Architect and AI Operator, all included in a single enrollment priced at less than Ten thousand Rupees, paid once and accessible for life. Unlike most AI education available today, which focuses on single-tool automations such as chatbots or voice agents, HOI's program is built around orchestrated, multi-agent AI systems, the kind of infrastructure that businesses actually need to run real operations.

Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Aryaman Upmanyu, Founder & CEO, Haus Of Intelligence, commented, "This program did not start as a business plan. It started because I kept meeting people who were terrified of being left behind by AI and had nowhere honest to go for help. Working across D2C and real estate through LanceMart, I saw firsthand how a handful of well-built AI agents could quietly replace entire teams of manual work, and I also saw how little of that knowledge was reaching ordinary people outside of tech circles. That gap is what led to Haus of Intelligence. The vision was never to teach one automation trick or one chatbot build. It was to give someone with zero technical background the same command over AI systems that a trained AI architect would have, and to do it in a way that respects their time, their age and their profession. Crossing 1,000 learners across 13 to 70 year olds, students, working professionals, business owners, tells me that vision was not just personal to me. It is a need that Bharat has been carrying quietly, waiting for someone to build the right door into it. We built that door, and this is just the beginning of walking people through it."

Behind this milestone is an engineering core that turns the program's vision into daily practice. Ojas Kulshrestha, Head of Engineering at LanceMart AI, and Satyam, Director of Engineering at LanceMart AI, lead the design of the very multi-agent systems that learners study inside the program, ensuring the curriculum is built on architecture that is already running in live businesses, not theory borrowed from elsewhere. Their work translates directly into how confidently HOI's learners implement agentic AI in their own work and daily lives.

The program continues to operate on a bundled structure, where a learner enrolling in Cohort 1.0 automatically receives Cohort 2.0 and Cohort 3.0 at no additional cost, all under the single price tag. This is paired with weekly live sessions held every Saturday, where new automations are built live with the community, along with dedicated Q&A access to the HOI team.

About Haus of Intelligence

Haus of Intelligence (HOI) is an AI consultancy, automation and training company building agentic AI infrastructure for individuals and businesses across Bharat. Its flagship offering, the Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program, is a 28-week structured regime spanning three progressive cohorts, AI Builder, AI Architect and AI Operator. The program includes 56 modules, 120+ lessons and 10+ hours of recorded content, delivered through the HOI Dashboard alongside an active community on WhatsApp and Discord. HOI's learner base spans age 13 to 70+ across cities and states throughout the country, reflecting its mission to make agentic AI accessible to people of all ages and all professions.

About LanceMart AI

LanceMart AI is the parent AI Infrastructure company behind Haus of Intelligence, building the intelligence layer that runs entire businesses through orchestrated, multi-agent AI systems rather than single-tool automations. The company operates across two core service lines: the D2C Agent as a Service Operating System (AaaS OS), a roster of 110 specialized AI agents that run acquisition, sales, retention, and operations for direct-to-consumer brands, and the Real Estate Multi-Agent AI Infrastructure, an 11-system suite that automates lead management, client communication, and commission tracking for real estate teams and brokerages.

LanceMart AI serves lean and scaling D2C founders in India and global markets, alongside independent real estate team leads and boutique organisations in the US and UAE, giving each customer a dedicated bench of AI specialists rather than a generalist tool. Haus of Intelligence operates as LanceMart AI's education and training arm, extending this same agentic AI infrastructure expertise into a structured learning program for individuals and businesses across Bharat.

6th Convocation of Online Degree Programs at MUJ - President Dr N N Sharma felicitates Chief Guest Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava in presence of dignitaries

The convocation also witnessed the participation of learners residing outside India, reflecting the expanding global reach of MUJ’s online degree programmes and the growing acceptance of flexible, digitally enabled models of higher education.

The ceremony was graced by Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava, Managing Director, Haver & Boecker India, as the Chief Guest, and Mr Ambrish Sinha, CEO, UNext Learning, as the Guest of Honour. The academic procession was led by the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour along with Dr N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur; Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana, Pro-President; Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar; Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar, Provost; Dr. Mallikarjuna Gadapa, Director, Centre for Distance and Online Education; Mr Dasari Nagaraju, Controller of Examinations, and members of the Academic Council.

The ceremony commenced with the rendition of the University Kulgeet, followed by the ceremonial welcome of the Chief Guest and other distinguished guests. In his welcome address, Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana congratulated the graduating students and highlighted the perseverance, self-discipline and resilience demonstrated by online learners. He emphasised that the success of students pursuing education through digital platforms is supported by families, faculty members and technology-enabled learning, which together help overcome geographical and professional barriers.

Delivering his presidential address, Dr. N. N. Sharma highlighted the University's achievements in research, rankings, academics, SWAYAM MOOCs and sports. He underlined the importance of online degree programmes in enabling learners to gain specialised knowledge and enhance their professional competencies, thereby improving their suitability for careers across diverse sectors. He also noted that the graduating cohort represented the true spirit of lifelong learning, with students ranging in age from 19 to 78 years.

Addressing the graduating students, Chief Guest Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava appreciated Manipal University Jaipur's emphasis on combining academic learning with practical and industry-oriented education. He encouraged the graduates to continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills to remain relevant in a rapidly changing professional environment. He observed that online degree programmes offer learners the opportunity to acquire specialised knowledge while strengthening competencies required for careers across a wide range of sectors.

Presenting the graduating students, Dr. Mallikarjuna Gadapa, Director, CDOE, said that online education is closely aligned with the demands of the digital age. He highlighted that technology-enabled education provides learners with greater flexibility and independence while helping them become familiar with emerging technologies and develop essential digital skills.

The Sixth Convocation reaffirmed MUJ's commitment to creating inclusive learning opportunities for students and working professionals seeking to pursue higher education without geographical or professional constraints. The diversity in the age and location of the graduating cohort further reflected the role of online education in supporting lifelong learning and continuous professional development.

Concluding the ceremony, Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar, Manipal University Jaipur, expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, distinguished guests, parents, faculty members, University management and staff for their contribution to the successful conduct of the convocation. He extended his best wishes to all the graduating students for a successful and bright future.

The convocation was also live-streamed through the University's official channel, enabling students and parents who could not attend the ceremony in person to participate virtually and share in the milestone.

Piston co-founders Vikram Sekhon and Shivam Shah raise USD 15M in Series A funding, led by FPV Ventures, to scale cardless payments and logistics infrastructure across the U.S.

The round follows a year of rapid growth for Piston. Payment volume increased 8x year over year, while its merchant network grew 40x and customer retention remained at 98%. Piston is now deployed at more than 2,000 stations across 48 states. Its point-of-sale integrations are also certified and live across systems covering more than 95% of U.S. merchant fuel sites.

"Commercial fuel still runs on payment technology built for another era," said Vikram Sekhon, Co-founder and CEO of Piston. "Fleet fuel fraud is a physical card problem, disguised as a detection issue. We removed the card and built a network that authorizes every purchase for a specific driver and vehicle at the point of sale. This round lets us expand that infrastructure until no commercial driver has to ask whether a station accepts Piston."

The more than USD 900 billion trucking industry still relies heavily on payment infrastructure built around physical cards. For fleets, that can mean persistent fraud, limited visibility into spending, and time-consuming reconciliation. Now, Piston offers fleet owners real-time visibility into fuel spending as it happens, without issuing or managing physical cards. And merchants gain direct access to commercial fuel demand, lower transaction costs, and the opportunity to capture the in-store purchases that come with repeat fleet traffic.

The two-sided network was built from firsthand experience. Vikram and co-founder Shivam Shah previously operated fleets and dealt directly with fuel-card fraud, hidden costs, and administrative burden. Sekhon's fleet remains the first environment in which Piston validates and tests new features.

Piston's India presence has also grown alongside the company's expansion in the U.S. Its Kolkata office, which was launched in April 2023 with a team of five, has since grown into a 25+ member hub and is home to the company's entire engineering team. The Kolkata team plays a central role in building and scaling the technology infrastructure that powers Piston's payments network across the U.S.

"Fuel is one of the largest B2B spend categories in America, and every transaction still runs through decades-old card infrastructure,” said Nikunj Kothari, Partner at FPV Ventures. “Piston moves that money over its own rails, with no card networks or intermediaries in between. Vikram ran hundreds of trucks and felt this pain every day, and Shivam recruited thousands of drivers before they wrote a line of code. This is a new payment network in a massive market, built by the people who actually lived the problem."

Piston is also extending its real-time controls with two AI products. Piston Guard evaluates each transaction for anomalies and can flag or block suspected fraudulent spending before it is completed. The Piston Analytics Agent allows fleet owners to better understand their spending data and uncover patterns without spending hours on manual analysis.

"Vikram and Shivam understood this market from the operator's seat before they ever approached it as founders," said Shravan Reddy, Partner at Pear VC. “Piston has translated that insight into exceptional growth, strong retention, and a network that creates value for both fleets and merchants. We are proud to continue backing the company in its next growth phase."

Piston will use the new capital to accelerate the national build-out of its payments network, advance product development, and add senior leaders across key areas of the business. Over the next 18 months, the company aims to establish coverage across every U.S. region. The expansion will also lay the groundwork for Piston to move beyond fuel into broader logistics payments infrastructure.

The Series A also marks the next phase of Piston's India story: a company serving a highly specialized U.S. logistics market while building its core technology from Kolkata. As Piston scales its payments network nationally, its Kolkata engineering team will continue to be central to the product and technology roadmap.

About Piston

Piston is a fully cardless payments network connecting commercial fleets with gas stations and convenience stores. Its secure mobile authorization technology is built directly into the point of sale, eliminating skimming fraud and lowering transaction costs on both sides of the pump. Merchants gain access to high-margin commercial fuel volume and increased in-store sales, while fleet owners receive real-time visibility into every gallon purchased, tied to a specific driver and vehicle. Piston is live at more than 2,000 stations across 48 states and is backed by FPV Ventures, Spark Capital, and Pear VC. The company is headquartered in Cupertino, California.

Learn more at www.piston.com.

Surge in international payments today is accompanied by its share of sophisticated AI frauds, including chargebacks. While stronger fraud controls can add authentication friction and affect legitimate payment conversions, lighter controls can increase exposure to fraud and revenue losses. Designed specifically to address both these challenges, PayU’s Fraud Liability Protect solution combines three core capabilities:
 

• AI/ML-powered risk assessment that evaluates every international card payment against multiple transaction and behavioral signals.

• Dynamic risk-based authentication that determines the appropriate level of authentication needed. Low-risk transactions are generally processed without friction, but higher-risk transactions are routed through stringent authentication

• Fraud liability protection that covers merchants from unwarranted fraud chargebacks, in turn protecting their revenues from international card fraud
  ​

“Fraud protection should not come at the cost of payment acceptance, especially as Indian merchants scale across geographies. With scams becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect amid the rise of AI, PayU’s Fraud Liability Protect is designed to safeguard Indian merchants against both human-initiated and AI-enabled fraud. By combining AI and risk-based decisioning, FLP helps identify genuine and risky international transactions, protecting merchants from cross-border payment scams and fraud chargebacks while helping secure their revenues and reputation. Across PayU merchants, we’re already seeing an approx. 4–5% improvement in international card payment success rates, alongside a significant reduction in fraud exposure,” said Manas Mishra, Chief Product Officer, PayU and Wibmo.
 

PayU’s Fraud Liability Protect is particularly relevant for Indian SMB merchants operating in segments like travel and online travel agencies, airlines, e-commerce, quick commerce and food-tech, where cross-border payment decline and frauds can have direct impact on revenue, due to loss of customer trust and experience. The solution has already begun witnessing positive outcomes for PayU merchants, given its seamless integration capabilities with PayU Checkout. A prominent online travel merchant recorded a 14% improvement in payment success rates alongside an 83% reduction in fraud-to-sales ratio, after PayU’s FLP adoption. Also, Zomato, one of India’s food ordering and delivery platforms, uses PayU’s FLP solution to offer customers a more reliable payment experience while maintaining appropriate controls for higher-risk international transactions.

About PayU

PayU, India's leading diversified fintech platform with Prosus as an investor, operates businesses that are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and offers advanced solutions to meet the digital financial services needs of customers (merchants, banks, and consumers). PayU provides payment gateway solutions to online businesses through its cutting-edge and award-winning technology and has empowered 4.5 lakhs+ businesses, including India’s leading enterprises, e-commerce giants and SMBs. It enables businesses to collect digital payments across 100+ online payment methods such as Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Net Banking, EMIs, pay-later, QR, UPI, Wallets, and more. It’s a preferred partner in the affordability ecosystem, offering the maximum coverage of issuers and easy-to-implement integrations across card-based EMIs, pay-later options and new-age cardless EMIs. PayU offers e-commerce brands best-in-industry success rates while ensuring a seamless checkout experience.

Chitkara University and Chandigarh Angels Network ink MoU to empower student-led Deep-tech  & innovative Startups

The collaboration will provide aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs with greater access to experienced mentors, investors and industry practitioners. As part of the partnership, quarterly pitching sessions will be organised for deep-tech and AI focused student startups, giving emerging founders a regular platform to present their ventures, demonstrate their solutions, receive investor feedback and explore potential funding opportunities.

Through these structured engagements, student founders will gain exposure to the expectations of the investment community while developing their ability to articulate their business models, market opportunities, technology propositions, scalability and growth potential.

With a network of more than 70 investors, a portfolio spanning 46 companies and over seven successful exits, Chandigarh Angels Network brings considerable investment and operating experience to the partnership. Its engagement with Chitkara University will add an important investor-facing dimension to the University's entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Commenting on the collaboration, Dr Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, said, “A strong entrepreneurial ecosystem is built by creating meaningful opportunities for young founders to learn, test, present and grow. Our collaboration with Chandigarh Angels Network will help our student and alumni entrepreneurs move beyond developing promising ideas towards building ventures that are capable of creating sustained value. The quarterly pitching sessions, particularly for our deep-tech and AI innovators, will give them an opportunity to engage directly with investors, understand what makes a venture investment-ready and learn from experienced professionals. We believe that access to the right ecosystem at the right stage can significantly shape the journey of a founder.”

The quarterly pitching sessions will serve as a recurring founder–investor interface, enabling promising deep-tech and AI ventures from Chitkara University to showcase their work to members of CAN's investor network. The sessions will also create opportunities for constructive feedback, mentorship and potential investor engagement.

The partnership will further focus on structured mentorship, investor interactions, pitch opportunities and exposure to market-oriented perspectives. It will enable entrepreneurs to better understand the fundamentals of building scalable and sustainable ventures while giving investors greater visibility into emerging technologies and solutions being developed within the University ecosystem.

The collaboration reflects Chitkara University's continued emphasis on entrepreneurship as an integral part of higher education, where students are encouraged not only to develop ideas but also to validate them, build viable ventures and engage with the larger innovation and investment ecosystem.

Through CCIE, the University has been building an ecosystem that brings together student innovators, founders, mentors, industry experts and investors. The association with Chandigarh Angels Network further strengthens this ecosystem by creating a direct interface between emerging founders and the investment community.

The partnership is expected to contribute to a more connected entrepreneurship ecosystem at Chitkara University, enabling student and alumni founders to move with greater clarity from idea to venture, venture to market, and market to investment.

About Chitkara University

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

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

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

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

Representatives of the NSW Government and MAHE at the NSW Government’s India Mission reception in Mumbai
 

The New South Wales (NSW) Government’s India Mission, held from 31 August to 3 September 2026, strengthened the state’s engagement with India across the economy, education, research, innovation, and culture, and created new opportunities for sustained partnerships among governments, institutions, industry, and communities.
 

Led by The Honourable Chris Minns MP, Premier of NSW, and The Honourable Daniel Mookhey MLC, NSW Treasurer, the mission convened senior government officials, policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and other stakeholders from New South Wales and India to explore opportunities for stronger bilateral cooperation.
 

As part of the mission, the NSW Government hosted a special reception at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, convening the Premier and Treasurer of NSW with government leaders, senior officials and policymakers from India, along with members of the official NSW delegation. The reception provided an important platform for dialogue and identifying opportunities for greater cooperation across priority sectors.
 

A significant institutional outcome of the mission was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MAHE and the University of Sydney (USYD) on 2 September 2026 to strengthen cooperation in education, research, innovation and international mobility. The MAHE and USYD delegations subsequently attended the Mumbai reception, where the partnership was formally announced in the presence of the NSW Premier and Treasurer.
 

The partnership aligns with the broader objectives of the NSW Government’s India Mission by translating government-level engagement into tangible institutional collaboration. It also demonstrates universities’ role in building sustained connections between New South Wales and India through academic exchange, collaborative research, innovation and mobility.
 

Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The NSW Government’s India Mission provides an important platform for strengthening the longstanding ties between New South Wales and India. Education, research and innovation can play a defining role in building deeper, more sustainable relationships between our two regions. MAHE’s growing partnerships with universities in NSW reflect our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students, faculty and researchers to collaborate and exchange knowledge. We look forward to contributing to a stronger India-NSW partnership through sustained academic, research and innovation-led engagement.”
 

The NSW Government’s India Mission also focused on strengthening economic and industry engagement and on identifying opportunities for investment, trade, innovation, and knowledge exchange. It underscores the importance of higher education and research partnerships in supporting the long-term objectives of the NSW-India relationship.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

Held on 07 September 2026, the event sought to raise awareness of Unveiling India: An Incredible Journey, an existing school club that encourages students and members of the wider school community to explore and celebrate India's diverse cultural heritage. The evening marked an opportunity to bring the initiative to a wider audience and build greater engagement around its vision.

Timothy Curtis, Director, UNESCO Representative, New Delhi Office (L); Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi

Timothy Curtis, Director and UNESCO Representative of the New Delhi Regional Office, and an esteemed TBS alum, attended the event as Chief Guest, joining students, families, staff and members of the school community for an evening of music, fashion and food.

A highlight of the evening was a special performance by renowned artist Sonam Kalra and The Sufi Gospel Project. Their distinctive musical repertoire, bringing together Indian folk and Sufi traditions with contemporary influences, offered a powerful celebration of India's rich musical heritage.

The evening also featured a fashion showcase presented by members of The British School community, highlighting traditional and contemporary ensembles representing different states of India. Guests were also treated to a selection of Indian refreshments, celebrating the country's diverse culinary traditions.

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi said, “The curtain raiser for ‘Unveiling India: An Incredible Journey’ revealed the deep resonance of the values and ethos of The British School with the core of what defines India - Vasudeva Kutumbakam (The world is one family). Our deep appreciation and respect for diversity coupled with our belief in a shared humanity underpinned the spectacular showcase of India’s rich cultural heritage. The school community came together in a dazzling display of the exquisite fabrics, weaves and costumes from across the country, followed by a mesmerising and soulful concert by the ever-so-talented Sonam Kalra and the Sufi Gospel Project. The story of incredible India will continue to be unveiled in our classrooms and events.”

Sonam Kalra and The Sufi Gospel Project

As an international and multicultural school, The British School New Delhi recognises the importance of developing a meaningful connection with the country in which its students live and learn. Unveiling India: An Incredible Journey provides a platform for the community to discover the country's history, traditions, arts and diverse cultural expressions, while fostering greater appreciation for the richness of India's heritage.

About The British School New Delhi

The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award-winning school offers high-quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. www.british-school.org 

Prof. Arindam Ghosh is felicitated by M. R. Sampangi Ramaiah, Honorary Director, RIT, M. R. Kodandaram, Director, RIT, and others

The seminar brought together academicians, industry experts and students to discuss the growing convergence of technology and the importance of multidisciplinary learning in preparing engineering students for the future. The discussions focused on how circuits, control, communication and computing, while traditionally viewed as distinct areas of engineering, are increasingly interconnected and playing a significant role in shaping emerging technologies.

Addressing the students, Prof. Arindam Ghosh emphasized that engineers of the future need to look beyond their individual areas of specialization and develop an understanding of multiple disciplines. He said that the rapid pace of technological advancement has created a need for professionals who can understand the connections between different fields and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

“It is extremely important for future engineers to possess interdisciplinary knowledge rather than specializing in just one field. Our students should not view technology merely as a means of securing employment, but should use it as a powerful tool to find solutions to the problems faced by society,” he said.

He pointed out that technology has the potential to address a wide range of challenges, including those related to rural development, healthcare, agriculture, environmental protection and transportation. He encouraged students to develop a problem-solving mindset and use their technical education to create solutions that can have a meaningful impact on society.

“Circuits, Control, Communication and Computing are not merely four separate technical fields. They are four important pillars that are interconnected and are shaping the technology of the future. Let us learn technology, foster research, promote innovation and use knowledge for the betterment of society,” Prof. Ghosh said.

Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Gnanapriya Chidambaranathan, Associate Vice-President, Infosys and Chair, IEEE Bangalore Section COM, highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary research and encouraged students to pursue research with a clear focus on addressing societal challenges.

“There is a need to encourage multidisciplinary research. Research should be conducted with the objective of finding solutions to the problems faced by society. On behalf of IEEE, we organize seminars, interviews and soft-skills training programmes for the benefit of students. These initiatives are highly beneficial to students,” she said.

The seminar also highlighted the changing nature of career opportunities for engineers. With developments in areas such as renewable energy, semiconductors and other emerging technologies, the demand for engineers with diverse technical capabilities and an understanding of sustainability is expected to grow.

M. R. Kodandaram, Director, Ramaiah Institute of Technology, said that the evolving technology landscape would create significant opportunities for engineering graduates, while also requiring them to continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills.

“There will be plenty of opportunities in the future. We expect significant changes in several sectors, including renewable energy and semiconductors. As a result, employment opportunities are also expected to increase. There will be a growing need for sustainable engineers in the future, and students need to prepare themselves accordingly,” he said.

The seminar provided students with an opportunity to interact with experts and gain insights into emerging technological trends, research opportunities and the skills required to remain relevant in a rapidly changing professional environment. The emphasis on interdisciplinary learning also reinforced the importance of combining technical expertise with research, innovation, communication and problem-solving capabilities.

The programme was attended by M. R. Kodandaram, Director, RIT; M. R. Sampangi Ramaiah, Honorary Director, RIT; Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Indian Institute of Science; Smt. Gnanapriya Chidambaranathan, Associate Vice-President, Infosys and Chair, IEEE Bangalore Section COM; Dr. Karisiddappa, Education Advisor; Dr. B. Satish Babu, Principal, RIT, along with faculty members, experts and students.

The seminar reaffirmed the importance of creating an engineering education ecosystem that encourages students to think across disciplines, pursue meaningful research and apply technology towards building sustainable and innovative solutions for society.

Wibmo, a PayU Company, Wins at the Global Fintech Awards 2026

Wibmo emerged as the winner following a rigorous evaluation process and strong competition. The recognition was presented for Wibmo Intelligent Authentication Suite with Risk-Based Authentication (RBA) Step-Up Authentication, acknowledging its contribution to advancing digital banking security and enabling trusted payment experiences.
 

Wibmo IAS is an integrated authentication suite that encompasses RBA. The capability enables banks to apply step-up authentication when risk indicators require stronger verification, while allowing trusted transactions to proceed with minimal friction.
 

As digital banking continues to evolve, financial institutions are navigating increasingly complex security requirements, changing customer expectations, and a growing need for real-time protection. Wibmo IAS with RBA-based Step-Up Authentication is designed to help institutions address these priorities through intelligent authentication and risk-aware decision-making across digital payment journeys.
 

The recognition highlights Wibmo’s continued focus on helping banks, fintechs and financial institutions strengthen security while maintaining convenience and ease of use for cardholders and end users. By combining authentication and real-time risk assessment within an integrated suite, Wibmo helps client partners build secure, seamless and adaptable digital payment experiences.
 

Commenting on the recognition, Shailesh Paul, Chief Executive Officer, Wibmo, said, “This recognition at the Global Fintech Awards 2026 underscores the immediate case for strong risk intelligence in authentication. Wibmo's RBA-based Step-Up Authentication helps banks strengthen digital payment security through risk-aware authentication by stepping up transaction authentication when needed and in real-time. Security is central to building trust in our evolving payments landscape, and this achievement reflects the dedication of our teams, the confidence of banks and our commitment to advancing innovation across digital payments.”
 

The recognition reinforces Wibmo’s position as a trusted technology partner for institutions seeking to strengthen payment security, improve customer experiences, and support the continued growth of digital banking.
 

About Wibmo

Wibmo, a PayU company, operates across entities in India, the US, and Indonesia. As a global full-stack PayTech company and an industry leader in payment security and digital payments in emerging markets, Wibmo stands out for its innovation and impact.
 

In addition to being India's largest authentication service provider in one of the leading digital payment markets globally, Wibmo offers comprehensive fraud and risk management solutions, digital financial services, prepaid solutions, and a broad range of merchant-acquiring services.
 

For more information, visit wibmo.com.

Esri India Launches Digital Atlas Program for Schools

With curriculum-relevant content and ready-to-use resources, the program is aimed to help teachers create learning experiences that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and connect classroom concepts to real-world situations. It will enable students to ask questions and find answers, discover the world beyond the textbook, and turn their discoveries into creative projects. By exploring relationships between people, places, and the environment, students will develop a deeper and more connected understanding of geography. The aspiration is to move students from being map users to map investigators, and eventually, knowledge creators.

Agendra Kumar, Managing Director, Esri India, said, “Through the Digital Atlas Program, we want to make geography learning more engaging for school students. The vision is to have students see geography differently. Instead of simply asking, ‘Where is it?’, students can start asking, ‘Why is it there?’, ‘What is connected to it?’, ‘What does this pattern tell me?’, and even, ‘What could happen next?’ For example, while learning about urban flooding, their questions can become more inquiry-driven, such as, ‘Where did the flooding take place?’, ‘Why did it happen?’, ‘How many people were impacted?’, ‘What could cause flooding to happen again?’, ‘What can be done to prevent it?’, and so on. The Digital Atlas Program brings together maps, data, and context to drive this kind of inquisitiveness. Importantly, since the program is curriculum-linked, it makes learning geography exciting right in the classroom.”

GIS is becoming increasingly integral to how we understand and address the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Today’s students are the future of our country, and nurturing spatial thinking through school education can enable them to view real-world challenges from a geographic perspective from an early age. The Digital Atlas Program is not just about teaching students to use maps. It is about developing spatial thinking. It builds on Esri India’s experience of working with schools, colleges, and universities to introduce students to GIS and geospatial technologies. 

Pluxee India, a leading provider of employee benefits and engagement solutions, has received authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA) for both online (PA-O) & physical point-of-sale (PA-P). This marks another significant milestone in Pluxee’s evolution as a technology-led employee benefits and payments platform in India.
 

The PA authorisation, received on 3 August 2026, complements Pluxee India's existing Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) authorisation, which the company received in 2009 and subsequently expanded in 2020 to enable the issuance of General Purpose PPIs beyond Meal PPIs. Together, these regulatory capabilities strengthen Pluxee India's ability to operate across the payment value chain, while continuing to deliver compliant, secure and seamless payment experiences to its clients, consumers and merchant partners.
 

The Payment Aggregator authorisation was necessarily required by Pluxee India to continue onboarding merchants directly as the Merchant Acquiring business was placed under mandatory licensing requirement by RBI. This authorisation will empower Pluxee to collect payments on behalf of its merchants across payment instruments, manage payment settlements and refunds, and further expand its Merchant footprint across India.
 

With almost 3 decades of presence in India, Pluxee's journey has evolved alongside the country's digital payments landscape. The company, which began operations in India in 1997, moved from a traditional paper-based meal voucher model towards digital payments with the launch of its electronic Meal Card in 2016. Its evolution has continued over time with Pluxee today supporting 11,000+ companies, 3.5 million+ consumers and 150,000+ meal merchant partners across 2,200+ cities in India. Pluxee operates on the Rupay Card network of 5 million+ merchants for benefits like Fuel, Telecom, Health & Wellness etc.
 

Pluxee's payments journey has been closely linked to its broader innovation agenda. In 2019, the company introduced the Multi-Benefit Pass, bringing multiple employee benefits together through a single digital proposition. Its payment ecosystem has evolved offering mobile-led experiences and digital reimbursement solutions. Pluxee's merchant platform supports multiple payment modes, including card payments, Mobile QR, NFC-based proximity payments and on-line payments.
 

The company's innovation journey has also expanded beyond payments. In 2024, Pluxee introduced its AI-led bill-processing capability, helping digitise and streamline the reimbursement experience. In 2025, Pluxee further expanded its multi-benefit proposition through the acquisition of ProEves, an Indian corporate childcare benefits player, strengthening its presence in an important employee-benefits category.
 

The company has maintained a strong focus on regulatory compliance throughout this evolution. From operating under its PPI authorisation and adhering to RBI requirements around KYC, AML/CFT, and transaction controls, to securing the new PA authorisation, regulatory compliance remains integral to Pluxee India's approach to building trusted payment infrastructure.
 

The PA licence marks the next chapter in its journey - building on nearly three decades of experience in India, a deeply established merchant ecosystem and a digital-first operating model. It further positions Pluxee India to participate in the country's rapidly evolving digital payments ecosystem while continuing to focus on secure, compliant and convenient payment experiences for businesses, employees and merchants.
 

About Pluxee India

Pluxee is a leader in employee benefits and motivation, supporting businesses in attracting, engaging, and retaining talent through a broad range of solutions across Meal, Childcare, Wellbeing, Learning, Rewards & Recognition & whole range of other offerings. With 29+ years of expertise in India, Pluxee partners with 11,000+ companies across the public and private sectors also fostering a trusted network of 180,000+ merchant partners on meal and 5 million+ merchants on other benefits. Every day Pluxee India works to supports 3.5 million+ consumers in 2,200+ towns nationwide.
 

Powered by innovative technology and a dedicated team, Pluxee India delivers meaningful and personalized experiences through a single card and app to enhance the well-being of its consumers at work and beyond. Carrying forward a global legacy of over five decades, Pluxee is committed to creating a positive impact on local communities, promoting sustainability, and enabling its stakeholders to do what matters the most.

For more information visit www.pluxee.in.

M3M Foundation inaugurates two multi-activity resource centres in Lucknow

The new centres at SBI Colony–Sachivalaya Colony, near Engineering College Chauraha, and Vinayakpuram, Lucknow, were inaugurated by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation along with Sanjay Sharma, Director – Resource Mobilization & External Engagement, Bal Raksha Bharat. The centres will provide safe and inclusive spaces for children and adolescents, while facilitating access to education, health, nutrition, child protection, social entitlements and other essential services.

The collaboration will take the iMpower-MAC model to eight centres across Gurugram, Chandigarh and Lucknow, strengthening community-based support for migrant workers and their families.

Since its launch in 2019, iMpower has grown from an initiative focused on migrant communities into an integrated support ecosystem. Today, the programme reaches 35+ iMpower Clubs and Resource Centres, connecting more than 5,000+ families, 10,000+ children and 2,500+ women and adolescent girls, while more than 1,000 individuals have been mainstreamed through its interventions. The programme provides support across areas including early childhood care and education, after-school learning, nutrition, digital education and social entitlements.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “Seven years of iMpower have strengthened our belief that migrant families need an integrated ecosystem of support to build secure and dignified futures. The expansion to Lucknow, in partnership with Bal Raksha Bharat, is a step forward in taking this vision to more communities. Every new centre brings support closer to families and creates greater opportunities for children to learn, grow and thrive.”

The two Lucknow centres will serve communities facing challenges including irregular school attendance, school dropouts, child labour, risks of child marriage and limited access to essential services. The SBI Colony–Sachivalaya Colony centre will serve approximately 350 households and 1,650 community members, including 520 children, while the Vinayakpuram centre will cater to around 200 households and 1,200 community members.

The expansion reinforces iMpower’s growing focus on partnership-led, family-centric and community-based solutions, bringing together expertise and resources to create safer, more inclusive and resilient communities.

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.

CM Shri D.K. Shivakumar was welcomed by Dr. M.R. Jayaram, Dr. Seetharam and Dr. Havidan Rodríguez at the inauguration of RISM and the foundation laying of Nareyana Pragnalaya

The ceremony marked an important milestone in the Ramaiah Group’s continuing journey in education and brought together eminent academic and institutional leaders, including Dr. M.R. Jayaram, Chancellor, RISM; Dr. Seetharam, Chairman, Gokula Education Foundation; Dr. Havidan Rodríguez, President, University at Albany, State University of New York; Dr. M.M. Pallam Raju, Member, Board of Management; Prof. B.N. Raghunandan, Chairman, RISM Task Force; and Mr. Gurucharan Gollarkeri, IAS (Retd.), Chief Strategy Officer, GEF (Medical), among others.
 

Ramaiah Legacy of Building a Knowledge Society
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar appreciated the contribution of the Ramaiah Group of Institutions to education and the development of Bengaluru and Karnataka. He highlighted the role played by the institutions in creating generations of professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders and in contributing to the building of a knowledge-driven society.

He also emphasised the importance of educational institutions preparing young people not merely to seek employment, but to become entrepreneurs, innovators and job creators who can contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.
 

RISM: Global Knowledge Meets Technology
Dr. M.R. Jayaram, Chancellor, RISM, highlighted the vision behind the new institution and its focus on global academic engagement, research, innovation and emerging technologies.

A key pillar of RISM’s academic vision is its collaboration with the University at Albany, State University of New York. The partnership is intended to provide students with access to global academic expertise, knowledge, research and emerging technologies, while creating opportunities for international exposure and industry-relevant learning.

The collaboration brings together the educational legacy of the Ramaiah Group and the global academic strengths of the University at Albany, creating an environment designed to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
 

Nareyana Pragnalaya – Abode of Wisdom
Dr. M.R. Jayaram also highlighted the significance of Nareyana Pragnalaya, the name given to the new RISM campus for which the foundation stone was laid.

Nareyana Pragnalaya means ‘Abode of Wisdom’ and envisions a transformative space where knowledge becomes wisdom, learning inspires discovery, and education shapes enlightened minds.

Rooted in timeless values and driven by a vision for tomorrow, the campus is envisioned to nurture intellect, creativity, character and compassion, empowering generations to learn, lead and shape a better world.

The foundation laying therefore represents more than the creation of a new campus. It marks the beginning of a new academic environment where knowledge, technology, research and human values come together.

The inauguration of RISM and the foundation laying of Nareyana Pragnalaya extend the enduring legacy of the Ramaiah Group of Institutions and Gokula Education Foundation into a new generation of global, technology-enabled and future-ready education.

IIC 3.0- Chief Guest Mr Virendra Chaudhary was felicitated by Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar, Manipal University Jaipur

Organised by the Department of IoT & Intelligent Systems, AIC-MUJ, E-Cell MUJ and DoIC-MUJ, the challenge is co-powered by Unstop, mlHealth 360 Pvt. Ltd., Mahindra & Mahindra Pvt. Ltd., MongoDB, InterviewBuddy, Internshala and Code Crafters, with ICAR, Mysore as a partner.

The inaugural ceremony brought together university leadership, industry experts, mentors, partners and participating teams. The session was graced by Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar, MUJ, Prof. Vijaypal Singh Dhaka, Dean, IQAC, MUJ and Convenor, IIC 3.0 and Shri Virendra Choudhary, Director, 1^st India News as the Chief Guest.

Prof. Amit Soni, Registrar welcomed the guests and participants from across the country and introduced the rich legacy of Manipal University Jaipur.

The Chief Guest Shri Virendra Choudhary, Director, First India News, who opened the problem statement for IIC 3.0. Addressing the participants, Shri Choudhary emphasised the need to build a robust and future-ready agricultural ecosystem and encouraged young innovators to explore entrepreneurship and technology-led solutions in the agriculture sector.

Dr. Geeta Rani, HoD, IoT & Intelligent Systems and Program Chair, IIC 3.0, welcomed the mentors, partners and participating teams and outlined the journey ahead for the 36-hour challenge. Dr. G. L. Saini proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contribution of dignitaries, mentors, partners, volunteers, participants and the organising team.

The third edition has witnessed an impressive response, with 259 teams comprising more than 900 registered students participating in the first round out of these, 154 teams are from MUJ and 105 teams are from institutions outside the university, representing 15 states and more than 70 universities and colleges across India and globe. The participating institutions include premier institutes such as IIT Bombay, IIT Jodhpur and NIT Lucknow. The challenge has also attracted an international team from Italy, adding a global dimension to the competition.

The participating teams are working on solutions across 10 critical themes, including EdTech, HealthTech, FinTech, AgriTech, Cybersecurity, Women and Child Safety, Aerotech and Aerospace Innovation, Transportation and Mobility, and Smart Cities and Urban Development.

Building on the success of IIC 2.0, organised last year, IIC 3.0 has been expanded into a comprehensive innovation platform combining a 36-hour hackathon and expert-led panel discussions.

The challenge is supported by an experienced panel of mentors and judges, including Mr. Ankit Jha, Founder, Awarno Technologies; Ms. Swati Bansal, SDE, Amazon; Ms. Nandini Sharma, Founder, Aparajita Foundation; and Mr. Prince Yadav, SDE, GreyOrange, Dr Ester Zumpano, University of Calabria, Italy; Dr Eugenio Vocaturo, CNR-Nanotec, Italy, Dr Haiming Liu, Southampton University, UK. The discussions will explore contemporary issues and opportunities around artificial intelligence, industry requirements and career planning, innovation and entrepreneurship, higher education, and global opportunities, providing participants with perspectives beyond the competition itself.

The competition offers attractive rewards to recognise innovative ideas and promising solutions. The first prize carries a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh, the second prize Rs. 75,000 and the third prize Rs. 50,000. In addition, participants will receive goodies and opportunities for paid internships, providing them with avenues to further develop their skills and connect with industry.

With participation from across India and an international team, IIC 3.0 represents MUJ’s continued efforts to create a vibrant ecosystem for innovation, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable development. The 36-hour challenge provides young innovators with a platform to transform ideas into solutions while engaging with mentors, industry leaders and peers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

On the occasion of Teachers' Day, Tathastu ICS hosted GURU SAMVAD 2026, a distinguished gathering dedicated to honouring the teachers and mentors who shape young minds and contribute to nation-building. The programme brought together eminent educators, civil servants, entrepreneurs and thought leaders in a meaningful dialogue with Gen Z, encouraging young India to participate thoughtfully in building an empowered and inclusive future.

GURU SAMVAD Tathastu ICS

The institute was deeply honoured to welcome Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon'ble Union Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, as Chief Guest, and Hon'ble Mr. Justice J.K. Maheshwari, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, as Guest of Honour. The occasion was further graced by over 100 distinguished dignitaries — serving and retired IAS and IPS officers, entrepreneurs, academicians and teachers, including N.N.D. Dubey (Former Deputy Inspector General of the Border Security Force)  , Shri K.C. Jain  (Retired  Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax) and Shri Hemant Jain (Group Managing Director of the KLJ Group of Companies), Shri Rakesh Asthana (Retired IPS- Former Police Commissioner of Delhi),  Ms. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari (IAS-Principal Secretary, Food Processing) — who interacted freely with students through the day.

Addressing the gathering, Justice J.K. Maheshwari said India's greatest asset is not merely its demographic strength but the character of its young citizens, and urged students to build their lives on discipline and integrity. Constitutional values, he reminded them, are living principles carried into one's profession, family and community. He also placed the teacher at the centre of this journey, noting that behind every upright citizen stands a guru.

Hon'ble Union Minister Shri Chirag Paswan connected with students through the lessons of his own life journey. Adversity, he said, is not an interruption in life's plan but an essential part of it — difficult phases forge character, teach patience and reveal the depth of one's resolve. A setback, he emphasised, is only a pause, never a full stop. Speaking on how to face harsh conditions, he urged students to hold on to clarity of purpose, consistency of effort and the courage to begin again, adding that as India moves towards Viksit Bharat, the nation needs youth who are not only capable but resilient.

Hosting the programme, Dr. Tanu Jain, ex-Civil Servant, Founder of Tathastu ICS and author, celebrated a generation achieving extraordinary things at a very young age — clearing one of the world's toughest examinations in their early twenties and building enterprises. Talent, she said, does not wait for age; what students need is the right direction, structured guidance and an ecosystem that believes in them.

She highlighted how Tathastu ICS is built on one conviction — that a student should never have to choose between a degree and a dream. Its Integrated BA + UPSC (three-year), MA + UPSC and MBA + UPSC programmes, along with its GS Foundation Programmes, allow students to complete their graduation while building a strong, syllabus-aligned foundation in General Studies, Optional subjects, answer writing and personality development — saving precious years and giving aspirants a well-prepared mind by the time they graduate.

The programme also featured panel discussions, an interactive session with students and cultural performances, closing with the felicitation of teachers and a shared resolve — that as India walks towards Viksit Bharat, it will walk on the strength of its teachers and the courage of its youth.

About Tathastu ICS

Tathastu ICS is a leading Civil Services preparation institute founded by Dr. Tanu Jain, ex-Civil Servant and author, with campuses in New Delhi, Greater Noida and Indore. Known for its Integrated BA + UPSC, MA + UPSC and MBA + UPSC programmes and its Foundation courses, the institute has mentored 5,000+ aspirants, with 400+ selections through various programmes.

For more information, please visit tathastuics.com

Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, with Mr Sergio Gor, US Ambassador to India, and other dignitaries at the US-India TRUST Fellowship 2026-27 in Bengaluru

Mr Sergio Gor, US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy to South and Central Asia, launched the fellowship at a special ceremony in Bengaluru on Sunday. The launch was followed by the Freedom 250 United States National Day Reception.

Leaders from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, the three host institutions, joined the fellowship’s benefactors on stage to present certificates recognising their role in hosting the programme. The programme is facilitated through a public-private partnership involving the US Consulate General in Chennai, MAHE, IIT Madras and IISc, with philanthropic support from the founding sponsors, Pratiksha Trust and Mazumdar Shaw Philanthropy.

The US-India TRUST Fellowship is a structured 12-month programme that will bring outstanding postdoctoral researchers and early-career faculty members from the United States to the three leading Indian institutions. The fellowship will focus on strategically important areas aligned with the broader US-India technology partnership, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, biotechnology, energy, defence and space technologies.

Addressing the gathering, US Ambassador Mr Sergio Gor said, "Every single day, we see incredible American tech leaders expanding their presence in India, and the TRUST Fellowship highlights the strength of this bilateral connection…As we look ahead to the next 250 years, the closeness of the U.S.-India relationship will be defined by this kind of collaborative research, shared innovation, and enduring academic partnership."

Speaking on this feat, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, "MAHE is proud to serve as a host institution in India for the US-India TRUST Fellowship." This fellowship offers a valuable opportunity for researchers from both countries to collaborate. The programme provides a valuable platform for researchers from India and the United States to collaborate in emerging and strategic areas of science and technology. By fostering knowledge exchange and long-term institutional partnerships, the fellowship will contribute meaningfully to advancing research and innovation between the two countries.”

MAHE’s participation in the TRUST Fellowship enhances its internationalisation by providing a structured framework for inbound researcher mobility, collaborative research, and sustained institutional engagement with universities and research organisations in the United States. Additionally, the initiative will facilitate knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary research, and the development of new academic and scientific networks in critical and emerging technologies.

The event was graced by Consul General Mariana L. Neisuler, U.S. Consulate General in Chennai, Kris Gopalakrishnan (Pratiksha Trust), Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Mazumdar Shaw Philanthropy), Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director, IISc Bengaluru, and Prof. Preeti Aghalayam, Dean of Global Engagement, IITM, representing IIT Madras, underscoring the significance of the initiative and the collective commitment to advancing excellence in research and innovation.

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

Students preparing for the Common Admission Test (CAT) now have an additional reason to aim high. The Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), Hyderabad, one of India’s well-established management institutions, has announced merit-based scholarships for eligible candidates seeking admission to its two-year full-time PGDM programmes for the 2027–29 batch.

Academic Block, Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), Shamirpet, Hyderabad

Under its scholarship and financial-aid scheme, eligible students with strong CAT performance can receive scholarships of up to Rs 2 lakh, helping deserving candidates reduce the financial burden of pursuing a quality management education. The initiative reflects IPE’s commitment to recognizing academic merit and ensuring that talented students have greater access to professional management education.

For students in the General category, CAT scores of 80 percentile and above can qualify for a scholarship of Rs 2 lakh. Additional scholarships are available for candidates across other CAT percentile ranges and categories, subject to the Institute’s eligibility criteria and applicable terms. Special scholarship provisions are available for eligible candidates from OBC, SC/ST/Minority categories and designated regions like Northeastern States, Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. There is no limit on number of students who get scholarships. IPE offers more than Rs. 2 Crores of Scholarships each academic year. More information is available on IPE official website.

The CAT is among India’s most recognized management entrance examinations and is widely accepted by leading business schools like IIMs and IPE. Beyond serving as an entry route to management education, CAT tests a student’s aptitude in areas such as quantitative ability, verbal ability, logical reasoning and data interpretation. The preparation process itself helps students develop analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, decision-making skills and time management -competencies that are increasingly important in today’s competitive business environment.

Prof. S. Sreenivasa Murthy, Director, Institute of Public Enterprise, said that students should view their CAT performance not merely as an examination result but as an opportunity to make informed choices about their future.

“A good CAT score reflects a student’s aptitude, discipline and commitment. The next important step is to choose an institution that can transform this potential into managerial competence, professional confidence and leadership capability. At IPE, we focus on providing a rigorous and industry-relevant management education supported by our institutional legacy, experienced faculty and strong engagement with industry and the public sector.”

He added that financial constraints should not prevent talented students from pursuing their management aspirations. “Through our scholarship initiative, we seek to encourage meritorious students to pursue quality management education. We invite CAT aspirants to explore the opportunities available at IPE and to consider how their academic performance can translate into both financial support and a strong foundation for their professional careers.”

Prof. Murthy suggested that, “With the CAT 2026 application window closing on September 15, 2026, students aspiring to pursue management education are encouraged to apply for CAT 2026 and take the examination scheduled for November 29, 2026. A strong CAT score can not only expand their choice of management institutions but can also help eligible candidates access merit-based scholarships at IPE”.

Established in 1964, IPE has built a strong legacy in management education, research, consultancy and executive development. The Institute offers Six AICTE approved, NBA & SAQS Accredited full-time PGDM (General / Core), PGDM (Marketing Management), PGDM (Banking & Financial Services), PGDM (International Business), PGDM (HRM) and PGDM (Business Analytics). IPE PGDM programs are recognized as equivalent to MBA by Association of Indian Universities (AIU), Government of India.

With a blend of academic learning, industry interface, research orientation and professional development, IPE offers students an environment designed to prepare them for managerial and leadership roles across sectors.

Students with valid CAT scores are encouraged to explore the scholarship opportunities and apply for admission to the PGDM programmes at IPE Hyderabad.

For complete details about Scholarship and Financial Aid Details, please visit www.ipeindia.org/tuition-financial-aid

Apply for IPE PGDM Admissions: www.ipeindia.org

Admissions Toll Free Number: 1800-120-4473
Email: admissions@ipeindia.org

Institute of Public Enterprise
Institute of Public Enterprise, Survey No. 1266, Shamirpet (V&M), Medchal-Malkajgiri District, Hyderabad - 500101, Telangana, India.

Freelancing with AI Course

Founded in 2020 by Ritwiz Tiwari, Bizgurukul built its early reputation training Indian learners in digital marketing and freelancing skills before expanding its reach internationally. Over the past several years, the company says its learner and freelancer network has grown from a primarily domestic base to spanning in more than 180 countries.

The company frames that international growth as validation of its underlying model: structured, trainer-led courses paired with community support can move someone from complete beginner to working freelancer, regardless of where they're starting from. The regional-language launch is presented as the next logical step applying that same model to learners who are more comfortable training in their own language than in English or Hindi, rather than treating regional markets as an afterthought.

"We've spent the last few years proving this model works at scale, across very different markets," said Ritwiz Tiwari, "Now we're making sure it's not gatekept by language for learners closer to home. If someone in Madurai or Mysuru or Vijayawada wants to build a freelance career using AI, they shouldn't have to first get comfortable in a second language to learn how."

What It Means for Students

For a student or working professional in a tier-2 or tier-3 South Indian city, the course is designed to remove two barriers at once: the language barrier and the skills barrier. Rather than translating existing English or Hindi content, each regional edition is built as a standalone course so learners can absorb concepts in their first language instead of losing time and confidence working through a second one.

The promise is practical, not theoretical: learners will be able to actually offer AI-powered services to clients, build a portfolio, and start earning, not just understand AI conceptually. That's particularly aimed at beginners, students, and working professionals who may not have a formal tech background but want a realistic, low-barrier entry point into freelance income.

Learners who complete the course receive a Certification of Completion, and the program joins Bizgurukul's existing library of 100+ courses spanning digital marketing, video editing, and business fundamentals, delivered through pre-recorded modules and live training sessions.

Part of a Broader Language Roadmap

Bizgurukul says Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada are the first of several regional languages it plans to add to its catalog, alongside continued expansion of its AI-focused curriculum. The company frames the move less as entering a new market and more as widening access to a model it says has already proven itself at global scale.

"Reach means little if the training itself isn't accessible in the language someone actually learns in," Tiwari added. "We spent the last few years proving this model travels well across very different markets. Now the priority is making sure it travels just as well across languages closer to home starting with the South."

Availability

The "Freelancing with AI" course goes live this September on Bizgurukul's platform and through its network of freelance coaches.

Bizgurukul is India's leading digital freelance school, offering courses in digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and related skills, founded by Ritwiz Tiwari. The platform states its mission is to make practical, freelancing- and career-oriented skill education accessible to learners across India.

Bizgurukul Youtube Channel

Shree Niketan Schools’ #CallYourTeacher campaign invites people to call the teachers who shaped their lives and share the memories that still stay with them
 

We often think about them. We speak about them. But how often do we actually speak to them?
 

This Teachers’ Day, Shree Niketan Schools is encouraging people to change that with a simple call.
 

Through the #CallYourTeacher campaign, the school group is inviting everyone to pick up their phone, call a teacher who made a difference in their life, and tell them how they helped shape the person they became.
 

The idea is deliberately simple. People are encouraged to record themselves making the call, share what the conversation meant to them, and invite others to do the same. The call could be to a teacher who shaped their career, inspired a passion, gave them confidence, or made them believe in themselves at a crucial moment.
 

Participants can share their call and their experience on social media using #CallYourTeacher and tag @ShreeNiketanSchools, encouraging others to reconnect with the teachers who helped make them who they are.
 

At the heart of #CallYourTeacher is a belief that education goes far beyond textbooks and classrooms. The values, encouragement and sense of identity that teachers help instil can stay with a child for a lifetime. And sometimes, the people who shaped us simply deserve to know the difference they made.
 

About Shree Niketan Schools

Indian Roots; Global Outlook is at the heart of Shree Niketan Schools’ educational philosophy. The school believes that children with a strong foundation in their cultural heritage can reach unprecedented heights in a global future.
 

At Shree Niketan, India’s rich legacy of values, traditions and knowledge is brought into the context of a rapidly globalising world. Respect, prayer, festivals, family and the celebration of India’s diversity are viewed not merely as cultural practices, but as opportunities to nurture empathy, leadership, collaboration and a strong sense of identity.
 

With a vision to nurture students who are deeply connected to their Indian roots while being intellectually and emotionally equipped to thrive on the world stage, Shree Niketan Schools continues to build an education that prepares children for both where they come from and where the world is going.
 

Today, Shree Niketan Schools is a growing community of 700+ staff members and 12,000+ children across five campuses, with a presence in Thiruvallur, Tambaram East, Tambaram West and Nolambur.
 

For more information: Shree Niketan Schools – Call Your Teacher
 

Instagram: @ShreeNiketanSchools
 

Campaign Assets

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Canva, the global visual communication platform, has become the first international company to offer recurring subscription payments to South African customers via Capitec Pay, the account-to-account payment method built by South Africa's largest personal bank — Capitec. The milestone is made possible through Canva's ongoing partnership with EBANX, a global technology company specializing in payment services for emerging markets.

 

South Africa: a USD 23 billion e-commerce market, largely cardless

The announcement represents a shift in how global subscription businesses can reach South African consumers. Credit card penetration in the country ranges between 8% and 10% of the adult population, according to the South African Reserve Bank (https://www.resbank.co.za/content/dam/sarb/publications/media-releases/2024/payments/SARB%20Payments%20Study%20Report%202023%20Executive%20Summary.pdf) and the World Bank (https://www.worldbank.org/en/publication/globalfindex). This limitation has historically restricted the reach of traditional card-on-file subscription models, excluding 44 million people in South Africa who do not own credit cards.

Instead of needing a credit card, Capitec Pay lets clients approve a recurring payment once in the Capitec app (https://www.ebanx.com/en/insights/articles/south-africa-s-subscription-gap-has-a-bank-native-solution/). After that, participating businesses can collect future subscription payments automatically. Canva is the first international subscription service to offer recurring payments with Capitec Pay.

Capitec is South Africa's largest personal bank by customer base, with 26 million clients (https://www.capitecbank.co.za/blog/news/2026/annual-results/) and over 16 million app users. According to Capitec, one in three South African adults uses its mobile app. "For Canva, going live as the first global merchant on this infrastructure is a removal of a structural barrier that was preventing a large portion of South Africans from accessing our platform at all," said Bianca Sibiya, Canva Africa Lead.

The offering of recurring payments through Capitec Pay by Canva in South Africa is possible thanks to its partnership with EBANX, which helped enhance the solution and became the first global payment service provider (PSP) to integrate it into cross-border payment flows.

"For years, card-based billing has been treated as the default model for global subscription products, but that default was built around consumer behavior in the United States and Western Europe, not South Africa," explained Wiza Jalakasi, Commercial Lead for Africa and the Middle East at EBANX.

EBANX has become a leading enabler of recurring alternative payment methods (APMs) (https://www.ebanx.com/en/insights/articles/ebanx-expands-recurring-alternative-payments-offering/) in cross-border digital commerce across the world. Including South Africa, the company supports recurring APMs across 12 emerging markets, enabling global merchants to reach more than 1 billion consumers, many of whom lack access to credit or debit cards.

"Capitec's philosophy is to ensure that our clients experience simple, affordable and innovative services. Recurring payments through Capitec Pay is just one of the many ways we bring that simplicity to life, offering clients a payment experience they already know and trust. Through this partnership with Canva, we are expanding our trusted payment experience and giving clients access to international merchants in an accessible way," said Francois Viviers, Group Executive of Marketing and Client Experience at Capitec.

South Africa's digital commerce market continues to grow rapidly, reaching 74% of adults and annual growth projected at 20% through 2028, according to Payments and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) data analyzed by EBANX. By that year, South Africa's e-commerce market is expected to represent a USD 23 billion opportunity, based on PCMI insights featured in EBANX's Beyond Borders study (https://hubs.ly/Q040LdtF0).

https://www.ebanx.com/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx

About EBANX

EBANX is the leading technology platform connecting global businesses to the world's fastest-growing digital markets. Founded in 2012 in Brazil, EBANX was built with a mission to expand access to international digital commerce. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep market expertise, and robust infrastructure, the platform enables global businesses to offer hundreds of local payment methods and streamline cross-border payments across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. With a global footprint, it established a technology and regulatory headquarters in Singapore in 2026. More than just payments, EBANX drives growth, enhances sales, and delivers seamless purchase experiences for businesses and end users alike.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://www.ebanx.com/en/  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx

About Canva

Launched in 2013, Canva is a free online visual communications and collaboration platform with a mission to empower everyone in the world to design. Featuring a simple drag-and-drop user interface and a vast range of templates ranging from presentations, documents, websites, social media graphics, posters, apparel to videos, plus a huge library of fonts, stock photography, illustrations, video footage, and audio clips, anyone can take an idea and create something beautiful.

For more information:

Website: https://www.canva.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canva-africa/

About Capitec 

Capitec Limited (JSE: CPI) is South Africa's largest retail bank by active client numbers, serving 26 million active clients. It is recognized as the country's leading digital bank, with 16 million active app users. Capitec offers simple, affordable and transparent banking solutions through innovative technology and personalized service via its app, online banking, and a network of 866 branches and 8,771 ATMs and cash-accepting devices. The Group uses data and technology to understand client needs and provide tailored solutions across Personal Banking, Business Banking, value-added services, insurance, and international consumer lending through its subsidiary AvaFin. Capitec aims to make a meaningful difference and unlock growth opportunities for all.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://www.capitecbank.co.za/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/capitec-bank/

Razorpay, India’s Omnichannel Payments Platform for Businesses, today launched RAY, an AI Account Manager on WhatsApp, in partnership with IndusInd Bank, with Bajaj Finance among the first businesses live on the platform. Built for businesses of every size, RAY gives founders an always-on, intelligent way to manage their payments and get support whenever they need it, day or night. Businesses have already had 20,000+ conversations with RAY, an early signal of how readily they are shifting to conversational, AI-led resolutions over dashboard-based ones for faster, more accessible support.

Razorpay Launches AI Account Manager on WhatsApp, with Induslnd Bank

Starting today, businesses can send RAY, Razorpay's AI Assistant, a simple message or voice note saying, “Show me a summary of my payments from yesterday” or go deeper with a request like, “Analyse my payments from the last two months and project my sales for the next two months.” RAY responds in natural language, without founders having to navigate dashboards or multiple screens to find the information they need. For India’s small businesses, getting help from their payments provider has just become as simple as texting a friend.

But the bigger shift is what happens next. For years, the largest businesses have had someone they could call to help them manage their payments and business needs. Most small and growing businesses haven't. Whether it’s checking the status of a settlement ahead of an urgent payout, sending a payment link to a customer, or issuing a refund while on the go, Razorpay is now putting that experience inside WhatsApp, the app most MSME’s already use for their business.

RAY is designed to do more than answer questions. It proactively tracks a business’s payment health and shares useful insights and actions before a business owner has to ask. From recommendations such as “Here’s how you can improve your payment success rate,” to flagging an upcoming settlement with a message such as, “Your Rs 94,600 settles Wednesday. Tuesday is a bank holiday. Would you like to get it settled today?”, RAY helps businesses stay ahead of issues and make faster decisions.

The launch marks the next evolution of RAY, Razorpay's AI-powered merchant assistance technology. While RAY was originally built to help businesses access information and support by leveraging AI, it no longer just answers questions when businesses reach out - it independently triggers actions across Razorpay’s systems. Where businesses once had to log into a dashboard to issue a refund or generate a payment link, they can now simply ask RAY to do it - on WhatsApp, in the middle of a conversation. 

The idea behind RAY started with a simple insight. Razorpay’s systems can already detect the early signs of a merchant needing support - from improving payment success to staying ahead of settlements. The opportunity was in how to act on those signals at scale. Manual outreach, however well-intentioned, depends on someone picking up the phone, one merchant at a time - a model built for hundreds of businesses, not millions. RAY was built to close that gap: turning real-time signals into real-time action, reaching every business on time, automatically.

Khilan Haria, Chief Product Officer, Razorpay said, “We’ve been thinking about how AI can fundamentally change the way businesses interact with their payments infrastructure. Millions of businesses across India are building and growing every day, and we wanted to make it easier for them to access the information, intelligent insights, and support they need along the way. With RAY, an AI Account Manager on WhatsApp, a business owner can simply ask for what they need in the most natural way possible and have it acted upon.”

He added, “More importantly, we are moving towards a world where they may not even need to ask us first. If we see an opportunity to help, whether it’s improving payment success, staying ahead of a settlement, or taking an action at the right moment, RAY will proactively reach out and help. Every founder, regardless of the size of their business, should feel like they have someone looking out for them.”

Amitabh Saraff, Head – Institutional and Government Coverage, IndusInd Bank said, "At IndusInd Bank, we are committed to making banking simpler, faster, and more accessible for businesses. Our partnership with Razorpay reflects this focus by bringing account management capabilities to a familiar platform like WhatsApp, helping make business support more immediate, intuitive, and convenient."

Bajaj – Tanaji Khot – Senior Head Banking, Bajaj Finance said, “When you're running a business, you don't always have the time to open another dashboard or follow up on multiple support channels. You just want to know what's happening and get an issue resolved quickly. Being able to simply send a message on WhatsApp makes the experience much more natural. It feels less like using another business tool and more like having someone available when you need help.”

Razorpay’s AI Agent Platform is built around a single intelligent agent that can handle a wide range of business needs end-to-end. Instead of building separate AI agents for payments, settlements, refunds, and other functions, the platform allows a single agent to draw on different capabilities, tools, knowledge, and memory depending on what a business needs in the moment. It holds full 360-degree context for each merchant, and an extensive evaluation system validates every response in real time, keeping hallucinations in check without compromising latency. The result: RAY moves seamlessly within a single conversation - from understanding what a business needs, to finding the right information, to recommending the next step, to taking the action itself.

With this launch, Razorpay is taking another step towards a future where AI doesn’t just help businesses understand what is happening, but helps them act on it. Built on Razorpay’s growing intelligence layer across payments, risk, and business operations, RAY is part of the ecosystem the company is building to make running a business simpler, more proactive, and increasingly intelligent.

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.

Decentro Earns Three Industry Recognitions, reinforcing its Leadership in Fintech Infrastructure and Embedded Finance

Two different juries, evaluating three different things, landed on the same company and the same founder in the same season. Decentro was judged as a business, as a category innovator, and for the leadership behind it. Recognition that points to something more fundamental: an infrastructure stack that most players in the space simply don't have.

The "boring" part is the actual innovation
Decentro's approach combines product infrastructure with regulated operating capabilities. The company holds RBI Payment Aggregator (PA) authorisations for online and physical payments, an IFSCA Payment Service Provider licence through its GIFT City entity, and UIDAI Offline Verification Seeking Entity certification. This stack enables enterprises to access bank-grade payment acceptance, identity verification and related financial workflows through a unified integration layer.

The company serves more than 2,000 enterprises across banking, lending, marketplaces, fintech and consumer internet, including large platforms such as AU Small Finance Bank, BharatPe, CRED, Meesho, MakeMyTrip and Muthoot Finance. Decentro's Payment Aggregator platform supports online and offline payment acceptance, including UPI, bank transfers, recurring mandates and QR-based in-store payments. Public company materials also describe its PA-Physical (PA-P) authorisation as enabling offline payment acceptance alongside its online capabilities.

Decentro processes more than USD12 billion in annual payment volume and 120 million-plus identity verifications a year, with integration timelines cut from months to days and roughly 30% lower operational costs for enterprises building on the stack. The company has also expanded its collections capabilities through Neowise, its conversational AI platform for lending collections. Neowise supports multilingual borrower engagement and human-assisted resolution workflows for lenders, and now handles close to 3 million borrower conversations a month across 12-plus Indian languages, working with lenders including Tata Capital and L&T Finance. Three physical delivery centres and 400+ trained human debt callers support the cases that need a person rather than a bot.

The leadership behind the platform
Rohit Taneja is a two-time fintech founder. Before Decentro, he co-founded Mypoolin, an early social payments platform backed by Accel, which Wibmo later acquired; PayU subsequently acquired Wibmo. He then led product and engineering for Wibmo's payment gateway business, working with financial institutions across India, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Dubai.

Founded in 2020 by Rohit Taneja and Pratik Daudkhane, Decentro is backed by Y Combinator and offers more than 150 APIs across payments, identity verification, banking and AI-led collections. Under their leadership, the company has secured its PA licence, acquired Neowise, and expanded into cross-border payments infrastructure through its IFSCA licence and GIFT City presence. Decentro's continued focus is to make financial infrastructure simpler to adopt, so businesses can spend more time building differentiated customer products.

"Being recognised at the company, innovation and leadership levels in the same year is deeply meaningful for all of us at Decentro," said Rohit Taneja, Co-founder and CEO, Decentro. "We set out to build the infrastructure behind financial products, not another standalone financial product. For our customers, that means faster launches, fewer fragmented integrations, and regulated capabilities that can be embedded directly into their customer experience. These honours reinforce the value of building compliance and reliability into the platform from day one."

Decentro was named Fintech Company of the Year for its efforts across payments, identity and collections, achieved while staying profitable on a lean ~USD10 million raised to date. Separately, the Bharat NBFC & FinTech Summit recognised Rohit for building a mechanism that lets Decentro's infrastructure operate seamlessly behind complex banking and financial products.

About Decentro
Decentro is a full-stack banking and fintech infrastructure platform founded in 2020 and backed by notable funds including Y Combinator. It enables businesses to launch and scale financial products through a unified API layer spanning payments, identity verification, banking and AI-led collections. Decentro holds RBI Payment Aggregator authorisations for online and physical payments, an IFSCA Payment Service Provider licence through its GIFT City entity, and UIDAI Offline Verification Seeking Entity certification for offline Aadhaar verification. The platform serves more than 2,000 enterprises across banking, lending, marketplaces and consumer fintech.

GoCredit's free Loan App Checker names the RBI-regulated lender behind any lending app, from RBI's official directory of 1,024 digital lending apps

A borrower types the app’s name. The free loan app safety checker searches it against the Reserve Bank of India’s public directory of Digital Lending Apps deployed by Regulated Entities - 1,024 apps as of 1 September 2026 — and against more than 9,200 RBI-registered entities. Where there is a match, the borrower sees the regulated entity behind the app, that entity’s grievance redressal officer, and the escalation route to the RBI Ombudsman. Where there is no match, the tool does not accuse: it hands the borrower a verification checklist and the official reporting channels.

Why the “not found” answer matters most

Google Play’s India policy requires personal loan apps to appear in the RBI’s DLA directory before they can be distributed. An app absent from that directory is therefore an app that should not be offering personal loans on the store at all.

That distinction is the tool’s core design decision. Lists of banned loan apps circulate widely on Indian social media, but no official public list of banned apps exists: blocking orders issued under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act are confidential by law. In a written reply to Parliament in July 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology stated that 87 illegal loan lending applications have been blocked to date; the names in those orders are not published.

“Every viral ‘fake loan app list’ is somebody’s guess, and borrowers are making decisions about their money based on those guesses. The verifiable question isn’t which apps are banned — it’s which regulated entity is behind the app in front of you. RBI publishes that. We made it searchable,” Anupam Acharya, Co-founder and CEO, GoCredit.

How to check if a loan app is RBI registered

The company outlined the verification sequence any borrower can follow, with or without the tool:

1. Search the app name in RBI’s DLA directory. Every legitimate digital lending app in India is reported to the RBI by the bank, NBFC or housing finance company that deploys it.

2. Open the app’s About or Compliance screen. RBI rules require a lending app to name the regulated entity behind it. If no lender is named anywhere, treat that as the first red flag.

3. Read the loan agreement or sanction letter. The legal lender is named at the top; it is frequently different from the app’s brand name.

4. Never pay an advance “processing fee”. Registered lenders deduct charges from the disbursed amount; they do not collect fees by UPI before disbursal.

5. Report what does not check out. Unauthorised lending apps can be reported to the RBI at sachet.rbi.org.in, or to the national cybercrime portal at cybercrime.gov.in and helpline 1930.

What the tool deliberately does not claim

The checker never describes an app as “RBI-approved”. The RBI compiles its DLA directory from information submitted by regulated entities on its CIMS portal and publishes it, in the regulator’s own words, without further validation. A listing is a disclosure by a regulated entity, not an endorsement by the RBI — and the tool’s language reflects that distinction on every verdict it returns.

Built on regulatory architecture, not around it

The tool is a consequence of the RBI’s Digital Lending Directions, under which regulated entities must report the apps they deploy. That reporting requirement is what makes an app-level public check possible at all. GoCredit renders the resulting directory in the form a borrower can act on: searchable by the name on their phone screen, with the grievance contact attached.

Alongside the checker, GoCredit has published the complete list of RBI-registered loan apps in India, with a dedicated safety page for each app naming the regulated entity or entities that deploy it.

The company operates an AI Loan Agent that matches borrowers to lenders through a single consent-based application, rather than repeated applications across multiple instant loan apps that each trigger a credit bureau inquiry. The safety checker extends the same premise to the step before borrowing: establishing who the lender actually is.

Availability

The loan app safety checker is free, requires no signup, and is available now at gocredit.money/loan-app. The underlying directory data is refreshed from the RBI’s published source.

About GoCredit

GoCredit is a personal loan platform operated by Vijayalakshmi Technology Infinity NKB Private Limited, offering an AI Loan Agent that matches borrowers with RBI-registered lending partners through a single consent-based application.

Website: gocredit.money

Sources Referenced

1. Reserve Bank of India - public directory of Digital Lending Apps deployed by Regulated Entities (rbi.org.in, Citizen’s Corner), accessed 1 September 2026.

2. Press Information Bureau - Release ID 2287195, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology reply to the Rajya Sabha, 21 July 2026.

3. Google Play Developer Policy - personal loan app requirements for India.

The shift is transforming how Paisabazaar builds and scales technology, significantly improving development velocity and enabling teams to take on a larger product and technology roadmap.
 

CTO Mukesh Sharma says as AI capabilities scale, Paisabazaar is able to build, test and deploy products faster and more efficiently
 

Mukesh Sharma, Chief Technology Officer, Paisabazaar, said, “AI has fundamentally changed the way our engineering teams build. But the objective is not to replace engineers—it is to make them significantly more productive, taking away repetitive development work and allowing them to spend more time on architecture, problem-solving and innovation. As AI capabilities scale, we are able to build, test and deploy products faster and more efficiently.”
 

Paisabazaar is also expanding its technology team even as AI takes on a larger role in development, reflecting the company's focus on using productivity gains to expand its technology ambition rather than simply reduce resources. As AI enhances productivity, the company sees an opportunity to build more, experiment faster and address more problems simultaneously.

AI-assisted development is now integrated across the engineering lifecycle at Paisabazaar, from writing and testing code to debugging and documentation. Engineers continue to provide human oversight across critical stages, while AI enables teams to accelerate development and focus their efforts on higher-value technology and product challenges. As the role of engineers evolves, greater emphasis is placed on systems thinking, complex problem-solving, architectural decision-making and the ability to work effectively with AI tools.

“We are not looking to build the same things with fewer people; we want to use AI to expand what we can build. AI will not reduce our ambition—it will expand the surface area of what we can build,” added Sharma.

The broader AI strategy at Paisabazaar extends beyond engineering, with the company using AI across consumer-facing experiences to simplify complex credit information, generate personalised credit insights and enable more contextual interactions. AI and machine learning are also being used across product discovery and lending journeys to enhance personalisation and decision support.
 

The company expects AI adoption across engineering and consumer experiences to deepen as the technology evolves, focusing on expanding innovation, improving productivity and delivering simpler, more personalised financial experiences at scale.

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s leading marketplace for financial products and a free credit score platform. Over the last 12+ years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust and goodwill of over 58 million consumers from 850 cities and towns across India. Paisabazaar has built wide and deep partnerships across the ecosystem, to offer a broad range of financial products, ranging from loans and cards to investments and savings along with bill payments and mobile recharge. The platform also enables consumers to check their free credit score from all 4 CICs (Credit Bureaus) in India. Paisabazaar is an ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers loan amounts ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, subject to applicable eligibility criteria. Customers can choose a repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months. The applicable interest rate ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, depending on the customer's profile and applicable terms.

What is new in the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offering?
The key update is the availability of a repayment tenure of up to 108 months. Eligible customers can select a tenure between 12 months and 108 months based on their financial requirements and repayment capacity.

The extended tenure gives customers more time to repay the borrowed amount. This can be useful for customers managing larger or long-term expenses and looking to spread their repayments over a longer period.

The applicable tenure remains subject to eligibility, loan terms and other applicable conditions.

Why does the extended tenure matter?
A longer repayment tenure can reduce the monthly EMI for a given loan amount and interest rate because the repayment is spread across more months. This may help customers manage their monthly cash flow more comfortably.

However, a longer tenure can also increase the total interest payable over the loan period. Customers should therefore compare different tenure options and consider their income, existing commitments and repayment capacity before selecting a repayment schedule.

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan allows eligible customers to consider different repayment periods based on their financial needs.

Who can benefit from the extended repayment tenure?
The extended repayment tenure can benefit customers managing larger or long-term expenses. It may be relevant for customers who prefer to spread their repayments across a longer period instead of choosing a shorter tenure with potentially higher monthly EMIs.

Customers planning expenses such as education, home improvements, medical requirements, travel or other personal needs can assess the available loan amount and repayment options based on their requirements.

What rewards are available during Loan Utsav 2026?
Loan Utsav 2026 offers a limited-period reward bundle to eligible customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period. 10 September 2026 is the last day of the campaign.

The reward bundle includes benefits across entertainment, music, dining and shopping categories:

• 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 rewards are available after successful loan disbursal within the campaign period. Eligibility, reward fulfilment and other conditions are subject to the applicable Loan Utsav 2026 terms and conditions.

Customers should review the campaign terms before applying and consider their financial requirements and repayment capacity when choosing a personal loan.

What are the key features of a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?
A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers a loan amount ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh. The available repayment tenure ranges from 12 months to 108 months.

The loan is collateral-free, so eligible customers do not need to pledge an asset as security. Funds can be disbursed within 24 hours*, subject to fulfilment of applicable conditions and documentation.

The offering also provides quick approval and requires minimal documentation, subject to applicable eligibility and verification requirements.

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?
The applicable personal loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, depending on the customer's profile and applicable terms. Customers should review the applicable rate and other loan terms before accepting an offer.

The interest rate is an important factor when assessing the overall cost of borrowing. Customers should consider the interest rate along with the loan amount, tenure, EMI, processing charges and other applicable costs before accepting a loan offer.

An EMI calculator can also help customers estimate their monthly repayment based on the loan amount, interest rate and selected tenure.

How does the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process work?
Customers can begin the application process online by checking their eligibility and providing the required details. The application is assessed based on applicable eligibility criteria and verification requirements.

Eligible customers can select a suitable loan amount and repayment tenure based on their financial requirements. The process involves minimal documentation, subject to the customer's profile and applicable requirements.

Once the required checks and documentation are completed, the loan amount can be disbursed within 24 hours*.

Customers should review all applicable loan terms and repayment obligations before proceeding with the application.

Why consider a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan during Loan Utsav 2026?
Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers eligible customers access to funds for a range of personal needs, along with flexible repayment tenures that can be chosen based on their financial requirements and repayment capacity. The loan is collateral-free, with funds disbursed within 24 hours*, subject to applicable conditions and documentation.

During Loan Utsav 2026, customers can enjoy additional value through a limited-period bundle of attractive rewards. Eligible customers whose personal loan is successfully disbursed during the campaign period can access a wide range of benefits, subject to applicable terms and conditions. Loan Utsav 2026 is available until 10 September 2026.

A simple and customer-focused borrowing journey
Bajaj Finance focuses on providing a structured and convenient borrowing process for customers exploring personal finance options. The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan combines flexible loan amounts, repayment tenures and collateral-free borrowing to support different financial requirements.

The availability of a repayment tenure of up to 108 months provides eligible customers with an additional option for managing monthly repayments. Customers should compare the available tenure and interest rate options and select a repayment schedule that suits their financial circumstances.

Customers can check their eligibility online and review the applicable terms for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan.

*Terms and conditions apply

About Bajaj Finance Ltd. 
Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), 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 serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its 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 BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

Galgotias University Stages Galgotias G20 Summit, Putting Students in the Chair of World Leaders

The Summit ran five committees over two days. The G20 Leaders’ Summit addressed strengthening global economic resilience amid geopolitical fragmentation. The IMF Board of Governors Committee examined global debt distress and financial stability, drawing on Special Drawing Rights, discounted cash flow analysis and high-frequency trading data. The Climate and Sustainability Working Group covered net zero targets, climate financing and green energy investment. The United Nations Security Council debated emerging global conflicts, including the South China Sea, Strait of Hormuz, Israel-Iran-Palestine and Russia-Ukraine, alongside proposals for Security Council reform under UN Charter Articles 23, 108 and 109. The International Press Corps reported on proceedings throughout.

Delegates engaged through formal debate, moderated and unmoderated caucuses, and engagement groups including B20, Y20, T20 and W20. All five committees raised motions, submitted resolutions and drafted position papers following negotiations and voting.

The Summit closed with an Awards Ceremony. UNSC awards went to Denmark (Best Delegate), Tuvalu (High Commendation) and Finland (Special Mention), with Verbal Mentions for the United Kingdom, Saint Lucia and Saudi Arabia. In the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Angola won Best Delegate, Italy High Commendation and Belgium Special Mention. In the IMF Committee, Japan won Best Delegate, Malta High Commendation and the USA Special Mention.

Speaking on the Summit, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “Platforms like the Galgotias G20 Summit give our students a real understanding of how global decisions are made. Watching them negotiate on climate finance, security reform and economic policy over these two days, it is clear they are ready to engage with complex, real-world problems well before they step into the workforce.”

Simulations such as the Galgotias G20 Summit give students hands-on experience in negotiation, policy research and public speaking, skills that extend well beyond the classroom. By engaging directly with issues such as debt distress, climate finance and security reform, participants build the perspective and confidence to contribute as informed global citizens in their future careers.

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.

L-R: Nikhil Mathur, Delhi State Lead, Azim Premji Foundation; Sudheesh Venkatesh, Chief Communications Officer at the Azim Premji Foundation

Launched in 2024, the scholarship is now open to girls who have completed their schooling in any of 21 States and Union Territories: Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Delhi (NCT), Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

To be eligible, a student must have completed Classes 10 and 12 in a government school in one of these States/UTs and secured admission to the first year of an undergraduate degree or diploma course at a recognised institution anywhere in India.

The Foundation aims to support up to 5 lakh girls across India every year. Since most undergraduate programmes last around three years, and students continue to receive the scholarship throughout their course, nearly 15 lakh girls could have an active Azim Premji Scholarship at any given time. Since the scholarship was launched in 2024, more than 1.9 lakh girls have received support.

The Azim Premji Scholarship application process is completely online and free. Applications can be submitted only through the official Azim Premji Foundation website.

Anurag Behar, CEO, Azim Premji Foundation, said, “Girls will have a greater influence on the future of our country and our society’s well-being — more than any other demographic group. So, we must ensure equitable opportunities for them in all spheres. Higher Education is one the most important of these spheres — it is an enabler of lifelong empowerment. Our scholarship directly addresses some of the barriers that girls continue to confront in accessing Higher Education.”

About Azim Premji Foundation

Azim Premji Foundation works towards a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society. The Foundation works across education, health and other areas of social development. It partners with governments, institutions, civil society organisations and communities across India.

Build Credit Awareness with a Free Credit Score Check from Bajaj Finance

Regularly reviewing this information can help individuals identify changes in their credit profile and address potential inaccuracies.

How the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report can help?

The Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report provides customers with insights into their credit profile beyond the credit score. It brings together key credit indicators that can help customers understand their current credit health.

• Credit score

• Credit history

• Credit age

• Credit mix

• Credit card utilisation

• Repayment history

• Account summary

• Credit enquiries

Reviewing these details can provide a broader understanding of how credit behaviour is reflected in the credit profile.

How to check credit score online?

Customers can complete a free credit score check online through Bajaj Finance and access their Credit Pulse Report.

The process involves a few simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the Credit Pulse Report page

Customers can visit the official Bajaj Finance website and open the Credit Pulse Report page. The option to check the credit score can then be selected.

Step 2: Verify the mobile number

The registered mobile number needs to be entered, followed by OTP verification.

Step 3: Enter the required details

Customers need to provide details such as their name, PAN, date of birth, email address, mobile number and PIN code.

Step 4: Check the credit score

After successful verification, the available credit score is displayed on the screen.

Step 5: Review the Credit Pulse Report

Customers can access the Credit Pulse Report to review their repayment history, active credit accounts, recent enquiries and other credit information. The report can also be downloaded for future reference.

What can a credit report tell customers?

A credit score is useful as a quick indicator, but it does not provide the complete picture. A credit report contains additional information that can help customers understand their credit profile.

Looking at these indicators together can give customers a more complete view of their credit health.

How can a credit score check help identify changes?

A periodic credit score check can help customers notice changes in their credit profile.

For example, a change in the score may prompt a review of:

• Recent repayment activity

• Changes in outstanding balances

• New credit accounts

• Credit card utilisation

• Recent credit enquiries

Reviewing the underlying credit information can help customers understand whether a change is expected or requires further attention.

Why is repayment history important?

Repayment history is an important part of a credit profile. It reflects how previous credit obligations have been managed.

Customers reviewing their credit report can look for:

• Missed or delayed payments

• Overdue amounts

• Incorrect repayment entries

• Payments that may not have been updated

Consistently managing EMIs and credit card dues on time can support responsible credit behaviour.

How does credit utilisation affect a credit profile?

Credit utilisation refers to the amount of revolving credit being used compared with the available credit limit.

For example, if a credit card has an available limit of Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 30,000 is outstanding, the utilisation is 30%.

Using a large portion of available revolving credit may affect a credit profile. Reviewing utilisation regularly can therefore form part of responsible credit management.

Why should customers monitor their credit health regularly?

Credit health can change as individuals take on new credit, repay existing obligations or change how they use their available credit.

Regular monitoring can help customers:

• Keep track of their credit score

• Review active credit accounts

• Monitor repayment information

• Check recent credit enquiries

• Identify unfamiliar credit activity

• Spot potential reporting errors

A periodic review can provide greater awareness of changes in the credit profile.

How can Credit Pulse Report support credit awareness?

Credit awareness is not limited to knowing a credit score. Understanding the information behind the score can help individuals develop better visibility into their credit behaviour and overall financial profile. This is also useful when understanding creditworthiness meaning, which refers to an individual's ability and likelihood to repay borrowed money based on factors such as repayment behaviour, credit history, existing obligations and other relevant information.

Customers can use their Credit Pulse Report to review key indicators and identify areas that may need attention. For instance, an unfamiliar account or incorrect repayment entry can be investigated, while consistently high credit utilisation can prompt a review of credit usage.

What habits can help maintain a healthy credit profile?

Maintaining a healthy credit profile generally requires consistent financial behaviour over time.

Customers can consider the following practices:

• Pay EMIs and credit card dues on time.

• Keep credit utilisation under control.

• Avoid unnecessary credit applications within a short period.

• Review credit reports periodically.

• Check that reported account information is accurate.

• Borrow within a manageable repayment capacity.

There is no instant way to establish a strong credit history. Consistent and responsible credit management remains important.

Build better credit awareness with regular monitoring

A credit score can provide a quick view of credit health, but reviewing the information behind the score can offer greater context. Repayment history, existing accounts, credit utilisation and recent enquiries can all provide useful insights into an individual's credit profile.

A free credit score check through Bajaj Finance can serve as a starting point for building credit awareness, while the Credit Pulse Report can help customers review key aspects of their credit profile. Regular monitoring and responsible credit habits can help individuals remain informed and make more considered financial decisions.

*Terms and conditions apply.

About Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), 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 serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its 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 BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

SAP Learning Hub, student edition

“When I first heard about SAP, it felt huge and out of reach,” says Mishra, who studied at DBS Global University, Dehradun, and is originally from Prayagraj. Then she found SAP Learning Hub, student edition, a free program that gives final-year students in India access to the same systems those companies run on. “Practicing on real SAP systems changed everything for me.” By the time she took her SAP Certification exam, the platform had turned an intimidating acronym into a credential. She was placed on campus soon after. “Going from ‘What is SAP?’ to ‘I’m globally certified and placed’ still feels surreal,” she says.

For students heading into one of the toughest job markets in years, that feeling is becoming familiar. Across campuses, students who once assumed SAP was an engineer’s domain are discovering it’s a certification that doubles as career validation.

The offer is simple—eligible final-year students get no-cost access to SAP Learning Hub, student edition, including expert-led sessions, learning journeys, and two SAP Certification exam attempts.

Aayan Kumar, an MBA Finance graduate from DBS Global University, says SAP Certification gave him an edge. “It added substantial value to my profile during campus placements and played an important role in securing my position at BP (British Petroleum),” he says.

The impact extends beyond business students. Ananya Agrawal, studying Computer Science at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, sees SAP Learning Hub, student edition as a foundation for the next wave of enterprise technology. “Elevating this foundation with an SAP Generative AI Developer certification has given me the tools to integrate advanced AI into the ERP landscape,” she says.

Different campuses and majors. The same conclusion. Understanding how the world’s largest companies operate is becoming table stakes for graduates.

For India’s final-year students in placement season, it’s the difference between a resume that lists a degree and one that proves, with a globally recognized certification, that the person is ready to work on day one.

Eligible final-year students in India can register for SAP Learning Hub, student edition at https://learning.sap.com/free-student-edition.

(L-R): Sujeet Tyagi, COO, Montran India; Shri Adv. Ashish Shelar, Hon' Minister, Government of Maharashtra for IT, Electronics, AI, and Cultural Affairs; Julie Esca, CEO, Montran India

The Summit focused on India’s evolving financial ecosystem and the next set of opportunities across payments, capital markets and emerging technologies. Discussions centred on how India can build on the scale achieved in digital payments while developing financial infrastructure that is faster, more resilient and equipped for an increasingly real-time economy. As part of the programme, Montran also showcased its work around AI-led Payment Intelligence, highlighting how artificial intelligence and greater automation can strengthen areas such as fraud and risk management across increasingly complex digital payment environments.

Speaking on the occasion, Julie Esca, CEO, Montran India, said, “India has already won the first phase of its fintech journey by achieving extraordinary speed, scale and adoption. The next phase will be defined by trust, built transaction by transaction through resilient infrastructure, stronger authentication and fraud detection, and technology that performs reliably every time. India’s regulatory landscape, transaction volumes and customer expectations are evolving at an unmatched pace, compelling the industry to continuously innovate. The solutions we are developing here are not only addressing the needs of one of the world’s most demanding financial markets but are also strengthening Montran’s global product capabilities. As financial infrastructure becomes increasingly real-time and intelligent, lasting partnerships between banks, regulators and technology providers will be critical.”

Shri Adv. Ashish Shelar, said, “India’s digital public infrastructure has demonstrated how technology can democratise access to financial services at an unprecedented scale. If the previous decade was about democratizing access, the next must be about democratizing intelligence through responsible AI. As India’s financial capital, Mumbai is well positioned to become a global centre for financial technology innovation, where companies can design in Maharashtra, build for India and scale for the world. As we move forward, security by design, accountability by design and inclusion by design must remain non-negotiable. By combining India’s scale with global expertise, we can build financial systems that are faster, more resilient and accessible, and help define the future of global finance.”

The Summit featured two panel discussions examining key developments across India’s financial infrastructure. The capital markets discussion highlighted how India’s successful instant payments revolution has helped pave the way for a rapid and seamless transition to T+1 securities settlement, while positioning the market for a future move to T+0. India’s securities market infrastructures also shared how their technology strategies are enabling progress on multiple fronts, notably tokenization and internationalization, with the resulting efficiencies and opportunities set to benefit the country’s large and fast-growing investor base. The second explored how banks and financial institutions can build more resilient, scalable and AI-enabled payment systems for an increasingly always-on digital economy.

The discussions pointed to a broader shift underway in India’s financial ecosystem: having built payments infrastructure at a scale few markets have matched, the industry is now turning to what comes next, from faster securities settlement to more resilient, AI-enabled risk management. Montran said the Summit will continue to serve as an annual platform for that conversation, as Montran India works with the industry to build the country’s next generation of financial infrastructure.

Senior representatives from NSDL, NSE Clearing Limited, IFSCA, Bank of India, Axis Bank and Montran participated in the panel discussions, sharing perspectives on the evolving payments and capital markets landscape.

About Montran India
Founded in 2013, Montran India is the largest subsidiary of Montran, delivering payment and capital market infrastructure solutions to India's banks and financial institutions. The company is a certified technology partner of NPCI and SWIFT, and holds ISO 27001/9001 certifications. It operates six offices across India, led from its head office in Mumbai. Discover more at www.montran.in

About Montran
Montran is the leading provider of Payment and Capital Market Infrastructure solutions, servicing the world's foremost financial institutions with mission-critical installations and operations in over 90 countries. Discover more at www.montran.com

Galgotias University launches an industry-integrated AI & ML programme with Microsoft and byteXL

Designed for the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, the four-year programme combines strong computer-science fundamentals with specialised, project-based learning. Students tackle real-world problems through live projects and case studies, building practical, job-ready capabilities beyond the classroom. The curriculum is continually aligned with industry needs, preparing graduates for high-demand roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, AI Application Developer, Data Scientist, MLOps Engineer and Cloud AI Specialist.

What the Programme Offers
The programme is structured around six core pillars: next-generation AI technologies, Microsoft certifications, career-launch support, high-demand AI roles, emerging AI domains and industry research. Together, these pillars are designed to give students an edge in a competitive, technology-driven job market.

Industry-collaborative research is central to the learning experience, covering Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Reinforcement Learning, Computer Vision, Speech Recognition and Robotics. Working alongside faculty and industry mentors, students gain exposure to cutting-edge tools, research practices and emerging AI domains.

Globally Recognised Microsoft Azure Certifications
A key feature of the programme is the opportunity to earn Microsoft Azure certifications recognised by employers worldwide. These include Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900), Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-901), Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900), Azure AI App and Agent Developer (AI-103), Azure MLOps Engineer (AI-300), Azure AI Cloud Developer (AI-200) and Azure SQL AI Developer Associate (DP-800). These credentials enable students to validate their skills and strengthen their profiles with recruiters from day one.

Placement Assistance from byteXL
Placement and career support are integral to the programme. Through byteXL's dedicated placement assistance, students receive structured, end-to-end career-launch support, including industry mentorship, internships, soft-skills and communication training, aptitude and technical interview preparation, mock interviews and access to byteXL's network of hiring partners. The support is designed to help students translate their skills and certifications into strong career outcomes and placements with leading technology companies.

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer, Galgotias University, said, “AI education cannot be limited to teaching tools that may be outdated by the time students graduate. Our focus is on helping students develop the judgement to frame problems, work responsibly with data and models, and take AI systems from experiment to deployment. By combining Microsoft's technology ecosystem with byteXL's applied learning and career support, the programme creates a structured path from computer-science foundations to industry-ready AI practice.”

Galgotias University is ranked 16th among India's top private universities, third among private universities in Uttar Pradesh and 46th among India's top private and government universities. It has also been globally ranked for three consecutive years. The NAAC A+ accredited university is now accepting applications for the programme.

Admissions are now open for the B.Tech CSE Specialisation in AI & ML, in collaboration with Microsoft and powered by byteXL. Prospective students can review eligibility and submit their application through the Galgotias University admissions portal: admissions.galgotiasuniversity.edu.in

L-R: Mr. Don Ward, Chief Executive, CIB UK; Mr. Jayanta Basu, Managing Director, Cemindia Projects Limited; Dr. Vijay Gupchup, President, NICMAR University Pune; Dr. Anil L Agarwal, VC, NICMAR University Pune; Dr. Rajni Kant Rajhans, Dean-R&D, NICMAR University Pune; Dr. Tapash Kumar Ganguli, Director General, NICMAR at the 10th Edition of ICCRIP 2026

The two-day ICCRIP serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, research and dialogue on emerging developments across construction, real estate, infrastructure and project management. The first day placed a strong focus on sustainable urban development, institutional capacity and effective project delivery as India responds to the growing scale and complexity of its infrastructure and urbanisation needs.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vijay Gupchup, President, NICMAR University Pune and Chief Patron, ICCRIP 2026, said, “India’s cities and infrastructure are expanding at a pace that demands new thinking around how we plan, build and deliver projects. The discussions at ICCRIP 2026 reinforced that sustainable development cannot be achieved through policy or technology alone; it requires skilled professionals, stronger institutional capacity and closer collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers. As an institution dedicated to the built environment, NICMAR University has a responsibility to help bridge this gap by creating knowledge, developing future-ready talent and providing platforms where research and industry experience can come together to address real-world challenges.”

A key highlight of Day 1 was the panel discussion on “Building Sustainable Cities: Bridging Policy, Capacity, and Project Delivery,” which brought together perspectives from industry and academia on translating India’s urban development ambitions into sustainable and effectively delivered projects. The discussion highlighted the need to bridge the gap between policy and on-ground execution, strengthen institutional and professional capacity, and foster greater collaboration among academia, industry and policymakers.

The inaugural session was graced by Mr. Jayanta Basu, Managing Director, Cemindia Projects Limited, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Don Ward, Chief Executive, CIB, UK, as the Guest of Honour, alongside Dr. Vijay Gupchup, President, NICMAR University Pune and Chief Patron, Dr. Anil L Agarwal, VC, NICMAR University Pune and Conference Patron, Dr. Rajni Kant Rajhans, Dean-R&D, NICMAR University Pune and Conference Convener, Dr. Tapash Kumar Ganguli, Director General, NICMAR and Conference Mentor,  ICCRIP 2026, senior representatives from industry and academia, NICMAR University leadership, faculty members, researchers and students.

The wider deliberations also focused on the changing nature of project delivery as infrastructure and urban development become increasingly complex. Speakers emphasised the importance of multidisciplinary capabilities, embedding sustainability across the project lifecycle, strengthening knowledge exchange between academia and industry, and preparing professionals for the evolving demands of the built environment.

In addition to the panel discussion, the conference featured keynote addresses, technical sessions and practitioner-led conversations, enabling researchers, academicians and industry professionals to exchange perspectives on emerging practices, research and evolving challenges across construction, real estate, infrastructure and project management.

The conference will continue on August 22 with further technical sessions, expert-led discussions and knowledge-sharing engagements. The second and final day will build on the opening day’s deliberations, bringing together researchers, academicians and industry practitioners to explore emerging developments and strengthen the connection between research and real-world application across the built environment.

ICCRIP 2026 features seven key segments: Research Papers, Case Studies, Practitioners’ Perspectives, Doctoral Colloquium, Hackathon, Paper Development Workshop and Editors’ Conclave, and an Industry Showcase. Now in its 10^th edition, the ICCRIP reflects NICMAR University’s continued focus on strengthening dialogue between academia and industry and creating a platform for research, knowledge exchange and conversations that respond to the evolving needs of the construction, real estate, infrastructure and project management sectors.

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

Students at Freshers’ Day 2026 Across Four Campuses in Chennai

The VELS Freshers’ Day 2026 celebrations brought together students, parents, faculty members, senior administrators and distinguished guests. The programmes featured formal inaugural ceremonies, inspiring addresses, cultural performances and student engagement activities, introducing freshers to campus life, academic opportunities, student activities and career-focused learning at VELS.

The VELS mascot Velu, was one of the highlights of the Freshers’ Day celebrations, creating excitement and enthusiasm among the students. Representing wisdom, strength, learning and perseverance, Velu added a vibrant and memorable element to the celebrations, with students enthusiastically interacting and capturing moments with the mascot.

Freshers’ Day 2026 at VELS Pallavaram Campus

The Pallavaram Campus, the flagship campus of the VELS Group of Institutions, hosted Freshers’ Day programmes on August 3 and 5, welcoming students from diverse academic disciplines.

The programmes introduced students to the University's academic ecosystem, research and innovation opportunities, student clubs, sports facilities, placement initiatives and co-curricular activities.

Dr. Irai Anbu, IAS (Retd.), Former Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, graced the August 3 Freshers’ Day programme as Chief Guest, while Mr. Sylendra Babu, IPS (Retd.), Former Director General of Police, Tamil Nadu, was the Chief Guest for the August 5 programme.

Both dignitaries shared valuable insights with the students on discipline, lifelong learning, leadership, goal-setting, personal development and the importance of making responsible choices during their formative years.

Freshers’ Day 2026 at VELS Periyapalayam Campus

The VELS Periyapalayam Campus hosted its Freshers’ Day programme on August 10 for students pursuing programmes in Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Pharmacy.

Dr. V. Ganesan, Academic Director, Vijaya Medical & Educational Trust, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and addressed the freshers on the importance of academic excellence, professional ethics, discipline and holistic development in building meaningful careers in the healthcare sector.

The programme highlighted the importance of professional knowledge, compassion, responsibility and continuous learning for students preparing to enter the healthcare profession.

Freshers’ Inauguration 2026 at VELS Thalambur Campus

At the VELS Thalambur Campus, VISTAS conducted the Freshers’ Inauguration on August 7 for students pursuing Nautical Science and Marine Engineering.

Shri K. Saravanan, Registrar, Indian Maritime University, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and addressed the students, encouraging them to embrace discipline, integrity, innovation and excellence as they prepare for careers in the global maritime industry.

The programme highlighted the campus's emphasis on academic learning, professional development, leadership, sports and extracurricular engagement, while introducing students to the opportunities and responsibilities associated with careers in the maritime sector.

Freshers’ Day 2026 at VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus

At the VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus, Freshers’ Day programmes held on August 12 and 14 reflected the University's focus on technology-driven education, industry exposure and AI-integrated learning.

Students were introduced to the campus's academic ecosystem, innovation initiatives, emerging technology opportunities and career-focused learning pathways.

The School of Aviation hosted Capt. Albert Tiong Kung Yung, Captain and Aviation Lead Instructor, Asia Aeronautical Training Academy, Malaysia, and Mr. Teng Keng Peh, Director, Alpha Aviation Group, Indonesia, as Chief Guests for the respective programmes.

The School of Computing Sciences welcomed Ms. Padma Jayaraman, Senior Associate Director, Movate, while the School of Management and Commerce hosted Ts. Dr. Suvarmani Subban, Chief Academic Officer / Administrator (DG), Malaysia, as Chief Guest.

The participation of experienced professionals from the aviation, technology and management sectors provided students with valuable industry perspectives and insights as they embarked on their higher education journey.

Guidance for the New Generation of VELS Students

Addressing the freshers, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder Chancellor, VELS Group of Institutions, emphasised the importance of discipline and maintaining a balanced college life. He encouraged students to learn with dedication, participate in sports and cultural activities, explore innovation and entrepreneurship, and make full use of the opportunities provided by VELS.

Addressing the parents, he assured them that “their children are in safe hands”, reaffirming VELS's commitment to nurturing students academically, professionally and personally and preparing them to become responsible citizens and future leaders.

Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, VELS Group of Institutions, highlighted VISTAS's academic standing as one of Chennai’s prominent deemed-to-be universities, with NAAC A++ accreditation and UGC Category-I status.

She encouraged students to make the most of their college experience by actively participating in academics, research, innovation, sports, cultural activities, clubs, internships and leadership initiatives.

She emphasised four essential investments for a successful life: Knowledge, Health, Relationships and Character and encouraged students to build meaningful friendships and make full use of the opportunities available on campus.

Freshers’ Day 2026 Marks a New Beginning at VELS

The VELS Freshers’ Day 2026 celebrations also enabled students to familiarise themselves with their respective campuses, interact with faculty members and senior students, and discover the wide range of academic, extracurricular and career-development opportunities available to them.

With a continued focus on academic excellence, industry integration, research, innovation, international exposure and employability, VELS Group of Institutions remains committed to creating an environment where students can discover their strengths, pursue their aspirations and prepare for a rapidly evolving professional world.

The Freshers’ Day celebrations concluded on an energetic note, with students embracing their new identity as members of the VELS community and looking forward to the academic journey ahead.

About VELS University

VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) continues to be recognised as one of the prominent deemed-to-be universities 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, visit: www.vistas.ac.in

M3M Foundation team and women entrepreneurs at the launch of the VyaPower Entrepreneurship Programme

The digital platform, being developed with the support of Fundink, represents the next phase of VyaPower, M3M Foundation's entrepreneurship development initiative designed to help individuals move from aspiration to enterprise and from enterprise to sustainable livelihoods.

Through the LMS, learners will be able to access structured, self-paced entrepreneurship training anytime and from anywhere. The digital format is particularly intended to overcome barriers of geography, time and access that often prevent aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women and youth in rural and underserved communities, from participating in conventional classroom-based programmes.
 

From Ideas to Sustainable Enterprises

VyaPower has been conceptualised as more than a training programme. It seeks to build an entrepreneurship development ecosystem that equips individuals with the practical knowledge, skills and confidence required to transform an idea, skill or livelihood activity into a viable enterprise.

The curriculum covers key stages of the entrepreneurial journey, including development of an entrepreneurial mindset, identification of business opportunities, business planning, understanding customers and markets, costing and pricing, financial management, marketing and branding, digital opportunities and strategies for managing and growing sustainable enterprises.
 

The initiative has already progressed through its capacity-building phase, including an intensive Training of Trainers (ToT) programme to create a pool of facilitators capable of taking entrepreneurship learning deeper into communities. The programme follows an idea-to-implementation approach, enabling participants to move beyond theoretical learning towards practically developing their business ideas.
 

The LMS will now allow this learning framework to be standardised, digitised and delivered at a much larger scale, while also enabling systematic learner engagement and progress tracking.
 

Empowering Rural Women and Grassroots Entrepreneurs

A key focus of VyaPower is to make entrepreneurship education accessible to rural and semi-urban women, including members of Self-Help Groups, community collectives, livelihood programmes and women already operating small or home-based enterprises.
 

Across communities, many women possess valuable skills, produce marketable products or have viable business ideas, but often lack access to financial literacy, business planning, branding, market knowledge and enterprise management support.

Through VyaPower, M3M Foundation seeks to help women transition from livelihood participants to entrepreneurs, producers and potential job creators, strengthening both household incomes and local economies.
 

Open to NGOs, Institutions and Community Organisations
Importantly, M3M Foundation is opening the VyaPower ecosystem to NGOs, educational institutions, SHGs, community-based organisations, livelihood organisations and other institutions that are working with aspiring entrepreneurs.
 

Such organisations can approach M3M Foundation to explore access to the VyaPower learning framework, capacity-building support and the Train-the-Trainer model, enabling them to take structured entrepreneurship education to their own communities and beneficiaries.
This collaborative model is expected to create a multiplier effect, where trained facilitators can support several aspiring entrepreneurs and, over time, successful entrepreneurs can create livelihoods and employment for others within their communities.
 

Technology to Take Entrepreneurship to the Last Mile

The LMS being developed with Fundink will serve as the digital backbone of VyaPower, enabling self-paced learning, structured progression across modules, standardisation of training content, learner progress tracking and integration of digital and community-based training.
 

Speaking on the launch, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, "India has tremendous entrepreneurial aspiration, particularly among its youth and women. What is often missing is access to structured knowledge, confidence, mentoring and the right ecosystem. Through VyaPower, we want to bridge this gap and enable people to translate their skills and ideas into sustainable enterprises."

"Digitalisation will allow us to take this knowledge far beyond the boundaries of a classroom. More importantly, we invite NGOs, institutions and grassroots organisations to partner with us and take VyaPower into their communities. Our larger ambition is to create a multiplier ecosystem of trainers, entrepreneurs and eventually job creators across India."

The launch on World Entrepreneurship Day reinforces M3M Foundation's belief that entrepreneurship can be a powerful driver of economic independence, dignity and local development. Through digital learning, capacity building and institutional partnerships, VyaPower aims to create a scalable platform that empowers individuals not only to seek opportunities, but to create enterprises, generate livelihoods and become job creators.
 

VyaPower — Powering Ideas. Creating Enterprises. Transforming Lives.
 

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic and social development arm of M3M Group, working towards sustainable and inclusive development through interventions spanning education, livelihoods and entrepreneurship, healthcare, environment, sports and community development. The Foundation works with communities and partners to build capabilities, create opportunities and enable people to become increasingly self-reliant.

Galgotias University today hosted a 200-strong high-level delegation from Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, led by His Excellency the Governor of Yamanashi Prefecture, Mr. Kotaro Nagasaki, along with senior members of the Prefectural Government and the business community. The visit marked a significant step forward in strengthening academic, research and workforce collaboration between India and Japan.
 

Galgotias University welcomes a 200-strong Japanese delegation led by H.E. Governor Kotaro Nagasaki; MoU & LoI signed on workforce mobility and green hydrogen
 

The delegation was warmly received at the University's AI Block, where the guests were welcomed with a traditional ceremony and the presentation of ceremonial stoles.
 

The proceedings on the dais were graced by a distinguished gathering of guests of honour, including His Excellency Mr. Kotaro Nagasaki, Governor of Yamanashi Prefecture; Hon'ble Mr. Junichi Ishidera, Vice-Governor of Yamanashi Prefecture; Hon'ble Mr. Neerendra Upadhyaya, Advisor to the Government of Yamanashi Prefecture; Hon'ble Shri Jaiveer Singh, Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Hon'ble Shri Dhirender Singh, Member of the Legislative Assembly (Jewar); and Hon'ble Shri Rakesh Kumar Singh, IAS, Chief Executive Officer of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA). They were joined on the dais by Hon'ble Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer, and Hon'ble Shri Suneel Galgotia, Chancellor, Galgotias University.
 

Landmark Agreements for Talent and Clean Energy

Together, the Memorandum of Understanding with the Yamanashi Prefectural Government and the Letter of Intent with the University of Yamanashi anchor a long-term collaboration spanning talent mobility and clean-energy research. A presentation by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) further outlined opportunities for deeper industry and talent partnerships between the two regions.
 

Focused Group Engagements Across Campus

Following the formal proceedings, a key highlight of the visit was a series of focused group engagements held in parallel across the campus. A dedicated group of delegates took part in an in-depth discussion on green hydrogen with Galgotias University faculty, exploring avenues for joint research, technology development and the exchange of students and researchers in clean energy and low-carbon mobility, a shared priority for both India and Yamanashi Prefecture.
 

Another group visited the University's Digital Nursing Skills and Simulation Centre for a session on nursing and the health sciences, reflecting the growing scope for collaboration in healthcare education and workforce development. Separately, members of the delegation took part in warm student-to-student interactions with Galgotias University students, exchanging perspectives on campus life, culture and career aspirations.
 

The delegation also toured the University's Centres of Excellence and advanced laboratories, including the iOS Development Centre, the L&T Centre of Excellence and facilities in artificial intelligence, drone technology and semiconductors, witnessing first-hand the University's industry-integrated approach to teaching and research.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer, Galgotias University, said, “Today marks the beginning of a lasting partnership between Galgotias University and Yamanashi Prefecture. Through these agreements we are creating real pathways for our students to build global careers, and for our researchers to work shoulder to shoulder with Japan on the clean-energy challenges of our time. We are honoured to welcome such a distinguished delegation to our campus.”
 

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Shri Suneel Galgotia, Chancellor, Galgotias University, said, “The friendship between India and Japan is built on shared values of knowledge, discipline and mutual respect. This partnership draws inspiration from the vision of the Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, for ever-stronger India-Japan ties, and from the leadership of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, in driving the growth and transformation of the state. It gives me immense pride to see Galgotias University become a bridge between our nations, and I am confident this association will open new opportunities for generations of young people.”
 

The Hon'ble MLA (Jewar), Shri Dhirender Singh, addressed the gathering and welcomed the growing India-Japan engagement in the region, noting the role of institutions such as Galgotias University in connecting local talent with global opportunities.
 

Both sides expressed their commitment to translating the day's agreements into concrete programmes of student exchange, faculty collaboration, skilling and joint research in the months ahead.

Dignitaries present at the ICAST 2026 inaugural session

Sponsored by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), ICAST-2026 has brought together around 250 participants and 18 keynote and invited speakers from academia and industry from India and across the world. The conference provides a significant platform for deliberations on translating emerging technologies and scientific research into scalable solutions to India’s environmental, industrial and developmental challenges.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Shri V. Srinivas, Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan, as the Chief Guest. Padma Shri Prof. G. D. Yadav, Emeritus Professor of Eminence and Former Vice Chancellor, Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, was the Guest of Honour, while Prof. N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, presided over the ceremony. Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar; Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar, Provost; Dr. Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dean, Faculty of Science, Technology & Architecture; and Dr. Ravi Kant Gupta, Associate Dean, were also present.

Addressing the gathering in the virtual mode, Shri V. Srinivas stressed the need to move beyond the conventional choice between development and sustainability. He emphasised that the goal must be to achieve development through sustainability, supported by scientific knowledge, technological feasibility, strong institutions and social responsibility.

Drawing upon his academic background as a Chemical Engineer, Shri Srinivas identified green hydrogen, sustainable energy, critical minerals, advanced energy storage and recycling, environmental remediation, circular economy, sustainable materials, biotechnology, artificial intelligence and digital technologies as critical areas that will shape India’s technological future.

He also highlighted Rajasthan’s immense potential in renewable energy, green hydrogen and sustainable industrial development in line with the State’s vision of Viksit Rajasthan 2047. Calling for deeper collaboration among academia, industry, government, entrepreneurs and young innovators, he emphasised the need to develop solutions to pressing challenges related to water, energy, waste, agriculture and climate resilience.

Padma Shri Prof. G. D. Yadav, in his inspiring address, highlighted the expanding role of Chemical Engineering in the era of sustainability and technological transformation. He said the discipline has moved well beyond conventional chemical industries and now has a crucial role in green chemistry, renewable energy, green hydrogen, advanced materials, biotechnology, energy transition, circular economy and sustainable manufacturing.

Encouraging young researchers and students to embrace interdisciplinary research and emerging technologies, Prof. Yadav underlined the role of Chemical Engineering in connecting science, engineering, industrial applications and sustainability. His message, “Pause, Ponder and Proceed,” urged researchers to understand problems deeply before developing solutions. He also shared his three-pronged philosophy, “Patent, Publish and Prosper,” calling upon researchers to convert knowledge into intellectual property, high-quality publications, innovation and societal impact.

In his Presidential Address, Prof. N. N. Sharma emphasised that challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, environmental degradation and energy security cannot be addressed within traditional disciplinary boundaries. He highlighted the convergence of engineering, biotechnology, materials science, environmental sciences, artificial intelligence and digital technologies as a powerful pathway towards sustainable development.

Prof. Sharma reiterated MUJ’s commitment to building an ecosystem where knowledge is transformed into innovation, innovation into technology, and technology into meaningful societal impact. He also stressed the importance of strengthening academia–industry partnerships to accelerate the translation of research from laboratories into real-world applications.

ICAST-2026 comes at a crucial juncture as India accelerates its transition towards green growth, energy security, circular economy, advanced manufacturing and technology-driven sustainable development. Through interdisciplinary research, expert dialogue and stronger academia–industry–government collaboration, the conference seeks to strengthen research networks and advance innovative solutions for a greener, more resilient and sustainable India.

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur, please visit the official website of Manipal University Jaipur: jaipur.manipal.edu

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.

From L-R: Dr. Beena G.; Dr. K.S. Narayanaswamy; Dr. Adishesha C.S.; Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Chancellor; Dr. M. Dhanamjaya; Dr. R.C. Biradar; Dr. Pramod Kulkarni at UPLINK 2026-27

Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Chancellor, REVA University, presided over the function, emphasising the University’s commitment to building a holistic educational environment that empowers students to dream big while ensuring a safe and nurturing space for their growth. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Adishesha C. S, Director – Technology & Innovation, Collins Aerospace, as the Guest of Honour.

Addressing the gathering, Dr P. Shyama Raju emphasised that educators and professionals have a responsibility to become role models for the next generation. Highlighting the importance of ownership, commitment and ethics, he said, “My role is to be a facilitator. Apart from what we teach at the University, we need to teach beyond that. We need to teach discipline, human values, respect for the nation and concern for elders.” Speaking about REVA University’s Educate to Enterprise philosophy, he said, “Through our Educate to Enterprise philosophy, we strive to nurture job creators rather than job seekers; leaders who inspire, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society.”

In his inaugural address, Dr. Adishesha appreciated REVA University’s efforts to create an environment that encourages students to push boundaries and develop their talent. “REVA University’s philosophy of giving back to society is truly inspiring. To facilitate this, they have incorporated a strong industry-academia connect,” he said.

Emphasising the growing importance of interdisciplinary learning, Dr. Adishesha observed that the boundaries between technologies, professions and academic disciplines are increasingly becoming fluid. “Interdisciplinary learning has become the norm of the hour. All professions and streams should come together, with a meaningful exchange of knowledge and ideas between them,” he added.

As part of the inauguration, every new student received a sapling, symbolising the beginning of their academic journey and their responsibility towards the environment. The initiative is part of REVA Vanamahotsava, the University's flagship green movement based on the principle of ‘One Student, One Tree’, encouraging students to plant and nurture a tree during their time at REVA.

Dr. M. Dhanamjaya welcomed the gathering and introduced students to the diverse REVA ecosystem, highlighting how the University’s Educate to Enterprise philosophy goes beyond academics to build holistic development, innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship. He said, “At REVA, education is not limited to the classroom. We want every student to discover their potential, develop the confidence to take ownership, and graduate with the knowledge and mindset to create an impact.”

Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. K. S. Narayanaswamy, Pro Vice Chancellor, REVA University, expressed his gratitude to the Guest of Honour, university leadership, faculty, students and parents for their presence at REVA UPLINK.

The programme was also attended by Dr. Beena G., Registrar (Evaluation); Dr. R. C. Biradar, Pro Vice Chancellor; and Dr. Pramod Kulkarni, Pro Vice Chancellor, along with deans, directors, faculty members, students and parents.

The inauguration also marked the commencement of a comprehensive student induction programme designed to help freshers transition smoothly into university life. Through interactive sessions, students will gain insights into their academic programmes, campus resources, industry exposure, student clubs, research opportunities, entrepreneurship initiatives, and the University's vibrant learning ecosystem.

Guided by its Educate to Enterprise philosophy, REVA University continues to build an academic ecosystem where students are encouraged not only to learn and excel, but also to create, lead and contribute meaningfully to society. The philosophy goes beyond creating entrepreneurs; it seeks to develop an enterprising mindset in every student, empowering them to identify opportunities, embrace challenges, take initiative and create value, irrespective of their chosen discipline. The new academic batch now embarks on a transformative journey of learning, discovery, innovation and enterprise.

Sakhi, built by students Karan Kumar and Arpita Gupta, is a menstrual health companion that combines cycle tracking with emergency assistance for women. AutiCare, built by Sudhanshu Kumar and Sourabh Singh, supports early autism screening for parents and caregivers. ToyVista, built by Madhav Sharma and Ansh Kalra, uses augmented reality to let shoppers visualise toys before buying. PrepLoop, built by a team led by Shams Tabrej Alam, simulates real interview environments with AI feedback to help students prepare for job interviews. Each began as a problem a student wanted to solve, not an assignment.

Galgotias University students build apps tackling societal challenges in women’s health, autism screening, retail and interview preparation, earning recognition by Apple

A few students in the programme are first-generation college goers, some the children of farmers, others from small towns where writing a line of code was unfamiliar territory before their first year at the university. With access to the right tools, training, and mentorship, they are among the students turning that opportunity into working software.

The programme has changed how these students learn. Swift and Xcode are built directly into coursework rather than taught as theory, and students move from writing code to shipping a working app, often the first time an idea of theirs has reached real users. That hands-on approach is reflected in the numbers, with Apple Swift Student Challenge wins from the programme grown from 10 in 2025 to 18 in 2026.

“This recognition belongs to our students. What they have built, and the effort behind it, underscores their innovation and determination to use technology for building socially relevant apps that solve real world problems, and it is a proud moment to see that hard work recognised on a global platform,” said Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University.

The work also feeds directly into career readiness. Students graduate with a portfolio of original, working software alongside their transcript, and the programme's links to industry partners including Infosys give some students early exposure to how their work applies commercially.

Galgotias University is featured on apple.com as part of Apple's coverage of student developer programmes at higher education institutions. Watch the video and read the full story at www.apple.co/galgotias.

Millennium Group of Schools - AI Championship 2026

With Times Now, the leading English news channel from The Times Network as the Official Broadcast Partner, the championship will bring together students from schools across India to explore the creative possibilities of AI through storytelling, music, and filmmaking. Built around the theme ‘Sustainable Cities. Intelligent Futures.’, the initiative encourages students to imagine how technology and human creativity can come together to build cleaner, greener, kinder and more inclusive cities.

The championship has been designed across three age-specific categories:

• Grades 5–7: Storytelling Challenge

• Grades 8–9: Song Creation Challenge

• Grades 10–12: Short Film Challenge

With nationwide outreach, the championship aims to engage over 25,000 students, 50,000 parents and 2,000 educators, while generating more than one million digital impressions. At this scale, the initiative is designed to create a powerful school-led platform for advancing responsible AI, creativity and future-ready learning across India. Registered participants will also receive complimentary access to expert-led sessions on prompt engineering, AI ethics and digital citizenship, equipping them with the knowledge and mindset to use AI responsibly while strengthening critical thinking, creativity and innovation.

Sharing her thoughts on the launch, Neha Vaz, Head of Events & Strategic Alliances, The Millennium Group of Schools, said, "Artificial Intelligence is redefining the way the next generation will learn, create and solve problems. At The Millennium Group of Schools, we believe children should not just learn about AI, but learn to use it responsibly, creatively and with confidence. The Millennium AI Creators Championship is our effort to provide young minds with a national platform where human imagination meets technology. Guided by the philosophy, 'Human Imagination Leads. AI Assists.', the championship encourages students to use AI as a creative partner while ensuring original thinking remains at the heart of every idea." 

The championship will be evaluated by an esteemed National Jury comprising renowned leaders from the fields of artificial intelligence, education, technology, design, media, innovation and the creative industries. Confirmed jury members include Mr. Vikas Kanungo, Dr. Sujitha Kurup, Dr. Amita Kapoor along with other distinguished experts, who will assess entries based on originality, creativity, storytelling, relevance to the championship theme, responsible use of AI and overall impact. The Top 15 National Winners will be awarded an exclusive, fully sponsored AI Fellowship powered by TechnoKids in association with Knowledge Hub,

providing advanced AI learning and coding opportunities to further strengthen their AI capabilities and future-ready skills. Winners will also be awarded with robotics kits by E-BOT Plus, a uniquely designed solution for Computer Science, Coding, AI, and Robotics, built around the core principles of simplicity, intuition, and practical approach.

Sharing her views on the educational significance of the initiative, Dr. Priyanka Jain, Head of Academics, The Millennium Group of Schools, said, "The Millennium AI Creators Championship reflects our belief that education must evolve alongside technology while keeping human imagination at its core. Rather than asking students to avoid AI, we want them to learn how to use it thoughtfully, ethically and creatively. Through this initiative, students will explore real-world challenges around sustainable cities while developing critical thinking, problem-solving and creative confidence. Our goal is to nurture young learners who see AI not as a shortcut, but as a tool to amplify their ideas and contribute meaningfully to society."

Beyond being a competition, the Millennium AI Creators Championship is part of a broader national AI literacy movement that encourages students to build with AI instead of depending on it.

About The Millennium Group of Schools
The Millennium Group of Schools is a prominent chain of K-12 schools across India that follows the CBSE curriculum. Known for its holistic, child-centric approach, the institution follows the award-winning, research-backed Millennium Learning System™ (MLS™), developed through 10+ years of action research, to create personalised, experiential learning experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, conceptual understanding and real-world application, while integrating global learning theories with the Indian education and value system.

To participate, please visit- www.aicreator.themillenniumschools.com/register

For enquiry: 87960 61075, 95950 82445

Mobius Foundation's ICSE 2026 to Bring Global Sustainability Leaders Together to Advance Education for Transformative Action

The two-day conference, themed “Sustainability Education for Transformative Action,” will bring together policymakers, educators, researchers, development practitioners, industry leaders and young changemakers to examine how education can move beyond awareness and knowledge to build the skills, leadership and capacities needed for systems thinking, innovation and collective action, for accelerating meaningful action on the SDGs.

“The road to 2030 is a race against time. Progress on every SDG depends, in some way, on education on what people learn, the skills they develop and how that knowledge is translated into action. ICSE 2026 seeks to move the conversation beyond awareness and intent towards practical, measurable and scalable solutions,” said Pradip Burman, Chairman, Mobius Foundation.

Since its inception in 2019, ICSE has evolved into a platform for dialogue and collaboration on Education for Sustainable Development, bringing together stakeholders from across sectors and countries.

Leading voices across sustainability, education and development

The conference will feature 10-12 eminent voices from across environmental action, education, policy, development, industry and civil society, reflecting the breadth of sustainability challenges that require an education-led response.

Opening addresses will be delivered by Sunita Narain, Director General, Centre for Science and Environment; Dr. Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI; and Kartikeya Sarabhai, Founder Director, Centre for Environment Education, alongside the leadership of Mobius Foundation.

Also participating in the deliberations will be Ravi Singh, Secretary General and CEO, WWF-India; Dr. Radhika Khosla, University of Oxford; Ms. Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director, Population Foundation of India; Mr. Arpit Sharma, CEO, Skill Council for Green Jobs; Mr. Pranshu Singhal, Founder and Director, Karo Sambhav; Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General, Agriculture Extension, ICAR; Dr. Janak Palta McGilligan, Padma Shri Awardee; Ms. Harshika Singh, IAS, Government of Madhya Pradesh; and Mr. Ashok Khosla, Founder and President, Development Alternatives, among other distinguished speakers from around the globe.

Together, these voices will bring perspectives from classrooms and universities to government, industry, grassroots organisations and communities reflecting the conference's central proposition that sustainability education must connect knowledge with real-world action.

Across ten plenary sessions, ICSE 2026 will examine some of the most pressing sustainability and development challenges confronting India and the world today, including:

• Green Economy, Green Careers, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation : building the skills and education pathways required for emerging green careers and enterprises;

• Sustainable Innovation at Scale : connecting research, technology and education with solutions that can move from laboratories to communities and markets;

• Recycling and Critical Minerals : understanding the role of circularity, resource efficiency and new skills in the evolving green economy;

• Sustainable Agriculture and Just Rural Transition : strengthening education and knowledge systems that can support farmers and rural communities in responding to changing environmental and economic conditions;

• Population Stabilisation and Health Systems : examining how government, philanthropy and civil society can work together to strengthen family planning and reproductive health outcomes;

• Women as Climate Change Makers : exploring the role of women's education, leadership and participation in driving climate action;

• Youth and Climate Action : recognising young people not simply as beneficiaries of sustainability education, but as creators of solutions through the Youth for Earth (Y4E) Conclave and Awards; and

• Environmental Education and Global Cooperation : examining how environmental education can support transformative action across communities, institutions and countries.

Why Sustainability Education Matters Now

With the need to accelerate India’s and the global energy transition, strengthen food security and health outcomes, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the natural ecological balance, healthy ecosystems and sustainable food sources, the challenge is no longer only about creating awareness of sustainability. It is about building the knowledge, skills, institutions and leadership needed to translate these priorities into action. From preparing young people for green jobs and supporting communities in responding to climate variability, to strengthening circular economy skills, reducing emissions and enabling informed decisions that can help address extreme weather events, education increasingly sits at the intersection of interconnected environmental, economic and social challenges.

ICSE 2026 will therefore focus on the shift from “knowing” to “doing”, showcasing experiences, examining what has worked, identifying gaps and exploring how successful approaches can be scaled through partnerships between government, academia, civil society and industry.

"Sustainability education cannot remain confined to classrooms or conference halls," said Priyanka Sharma, President & CEO, Mobius Foundation. "It has to become an enabler of the green economy building pathways for green careers and entrepreneurship, fostering green innovation at scale, and shaping decisions that contribute to a sustainable future. This requires engaging across the entire education continuum, from schools and undergraduate education to postgraduate, professional, technical and vocational learning, with a stronger focus on environment and sustainability. ICSE has grown into a platform where these conversations can move beyond panels and into partnerships, innovation and action."

The conference will conclude with the presentation and formal adoption of recommendations emerging from the two-day discussions, providing a framework for further policy and institutional engagement.

To register for the conference visit icse-esd.org/icse-2026-registration

About Mobius Foundation

Mobius Foundation works to promote sustainable development through sustainability education, environmental action, renewable energy, population stabilisation and youth engagement. Through its programmes and partnerships, the Foundation supports individuals, institutions and communities in developing sustainable practices and solutions for people and the planet.

Independence Day Celebration at MAHE Bengaluru Campus
 

Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, hoisted the National Flag, marking the ceremonial highlight of the celebrations. Senior officials, faculty, staff and students from across the constituent units of MAHE Bengaluru joined the occasion.
 

On the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru shared a message centered on “The Freedom to Build” and the responsibility that accompanies the freedom inherited by every generation. “Independence Day asks more of us than remembrance. It asks what we will do with the freedom we inherited. Nearly eight decades ago, India received the freedom to build, and Manipal has contributed to building the capabilities of that free nation through education, healthcare, research and service. As we look ahead, universities must convert education into inquiry, technology into human capability, access into belonging, and achievement into stewardship. Our task is not simply to celebrate what was built, but to ask whether we are building what the next eighty years will require,” said Prof. Veeraraghavan.
 

The flag hoisting was followed by the National Anthem, parade reporting, inspection and march-past by the participating contingents, bringing the MAHE Bengaluru community together in a moment of national pride and unity.
 

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, reflected on the significance of Independence Day and the role of the university community in contributing to the nation’s continued progress.
 

The celebrations continued with the presentation of awards recognising achievements in the march-past, followed by cultural performances that brought together students and members of the MAHE Bengaluru community in the spirit of patriotism and celebration.
 

The event was hosted by Manipal Law School, MAHE Bengaluru, under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Sarasu Esther Thomas, Director, Manipal Law School.
 

The 80th Independence Day celebrations at MAHE Bengaluru served as a reflection on the journey of a nation that continues to evolve through education, innovation, research and service. The occasion reaffirmed the responsibility of universities to contribute to India’s future by creating knowledge, nurturing responsible citizens and building the capabilities needed to address the challenges and opportunities of the decades ahead.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

MAHE, Microsoft & Hitachi Systems India leadership at the launch of the AI Lab at TAPMI Manipal

The Microsoft Labs will be established at T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal; T A Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Bengaluru; Manipal School of Commerce and Economics (MSCE), Manipal; Manipal Institute of Commerce, Finance and Economics (MICFE), Bengaluru; and Manipal Law School (MLS), Bengaluru. The labs will provide students and faculty with access to cutting-edge technologies and hands-on learning experiences, while supporting interdisciplinary research and industry-academia collaboration.

The labs will provide access to AI and other digital technologies, creating dedicated platforms for hands-on learning, experimentation, interdisciplinary research, and innovation. The initiative will also strengthen industry-academia engagement by enabling students and faculty to align academic learning with evolving industry requirements and real-world applications.

The event was attended by Mr Puneet Chandok, President and CEO of Microsoft India and South Asia; Mr Raj Kamal Singhal, CEO of Hitachi Systems India; and Mr Venkat Krishnan, Executive Director at Microsoft Corporation (India) Pvt. Ltd. Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, chaired the event.

The two-day programme included interactions between the leadership of Microsoft and Hitachi Systems India and the MAHE community. The discussions focused on emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital education, research, and the preparation for future skill requirements.

As part of the launch programme, MAHE also hosted a panel discussion titled “Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Reshaping Work, Business, and Society.” The discussion explored AI’s growing impact across workplaces, businesses, education, and society, and highlighted the need for responsible adoption and future-ready capabilities.

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, said, “MAHE has always believed in staying ahead of change rather than reacting to it. The launch of these AI Labs, in partnership with Microsoft and Hitachi, is a continuation of that founding vision, building an institution where innovation and ethics advance together.”

Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The MAHE-Microsoft Partnership marks an important step in our journey towards creating a technology-enabled and future-ready higher education ecosystem. Artificial intelligence and cloud technologies are transforming the way we learn, work, and innovate, and it is essential that our students and faculty engage with these technologies through meaningful, hands-on experiences. The establishment of Microsoft Labs across five of our constituent institutions will strengthen opportunities for experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and innovation.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India and South Asia, said, “India’s young talent has the potential to shape the next wave of AI-led innovation, and partnerships between academia and industry are critical to unlocking that potential. Our collaboration with MAHE will bring students and faculty closer to the technologies, tools, and skills that are shaping the future of work. The Microsoft Labs across five MAHE institutions will provide a platform for hands-on learning, experimentation, and innovation, helping learners move beyond understanding AI to applying it responsibly to solve real-world challenges.”

Mr Raj Kamal Singhal, CEO, Hitachi Systems India, said, “The convergence of technology, education, and industry is essential to building the workforce and solutions needed for a rapidly evolving digital economy. We are pleased to be part of this initiative with MAHE and Microsoft, which brings together academic expertise and industry capabilities to create meaningful opportunities for learning and innovation. As AI and cloud technologies continue to transform businesses, initiatives such as these can help students develop practical skills, embrace continuous learning, and apply technology to address problems.”

“As AI rapidly moves from experimentation to real-world application, building the right combination of technology capabilities, practical skills and industry understanding will be critical. Our association with MAHE and Microsoft provides an opportunity to bring industry perspectives closer to academia and help students understand how emerging technologies can address real business and societal challenges. At Hitachi Systems India, we believe such collaborations can play an important role in developing future-ready talent while fostering responsible and meaningful technology-led innovation.”              

The MAHE-Microsoft Partnership enhances technology-driven education and innovation, creating an environment where academic knowledge, industry insights, and emerging technologies converge to equip learners for the evolving needs of the global economy.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

About Microsoft India

Microsoft India enables individuals and organisations to achieve more through innovative cloud, AI, productivity, and digital transformation solutions. The company works closely with educational institutions, enterprises, startups, and government organisations to drive technology-led growth and innovation.

About Hitachi Systems India Pvt. Ltd.

Hitachi Systems India Pvt. Ltd. is a leading IT services and digital transformation company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Systems, Ltd., leveraging deep domain expertise, advanced technology capabilities, and the strength of the Hitachi Group. The company provides end-to-end services spanning cloud, cybersecurity, data centre, and network services, observability services, managed services, and enterprise technology solutions across India.

Axis Max Life Recognised for Workplace Inclusion and Safety with POSH Pioneer Award 2026

The conclave brought together over 250 delegates from government, judiciary, industry, human resources, law, academia and the wider POSH ecosystem for a day of insightful dialogue, knowledge sharing and recognition of organisations championing workplace safety and inclusion.

The POSH Pioneer Award honours organisations that have introduced innovative and impactful practices that strengthen workplace dignity, employee trust and POSH implementation. organisations that have moved beyond compliance to create workplaces where respect, inclusion and accountability are embedded into everyday culture inspiring others across India to follow. This recognition has been conferred after a comprehensive evaluation process by an independent Jury against pre-defined assessment criteria, considering the impact, innovation, sustainability, and contribution made towards creating safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. It recognises an organisation's commitment to advancing the principles and spirit of the POSH Act and moving beyond compliance towards building a culture of dignity and respect.

Priyanka Mitra, Head Distribution HR, Diversity & Inclusion Axis Max Life Insurance, said, "At Axis Max Life, fostering a workplace built on trust, respect and inclusion is fundamental to who we are as an organisation. Receiving the POSH Pioneer Award is a meaningful recognition of our continued commitment to creating a safe and equitable environment where every employee feels valued, heard and empowered to thrive. We believe that cultivating a culture of dignity and accountability goes beyond compliance, it requires sustained awareness, strong leadership commitment and collective responsibility. We will continue to strengthen our people practices and nurture a workplace where everyone can contribute with confidence and authenticity."

The conclave marked several significant milestones in advancing workplace safety and awareness across the country. The event commenced with an inaugural keynote address by Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, Secretary, Department of Women & Child Development, Government of NCT of Delhi.

The event culminated with the presentation of the National POSH Excellence Awards, recognising organisations and leaders that have set benchmarks in fostering respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplaces. The recognition of Axis Max Life as a POSH Pioneer Award recipient reflects the Company's continued focus on strengthening workplace policies, promoting awareness, and cultivating a culture where every employee is empowered to thrive with dignity, trust, and confidence.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (the “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a subsidiary of Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) with Axis Bank Limited and its affiliates also being shareholders of the Company. Axis Max Life offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party partners. The Company has built its operations on a need-based sales process, a customer centric engagement model and trained human capital. As per audited financials for FY2025-26, Axis Max Life recorded a gross written premium of INR 38,877 crore. 

IRDAI Registration. No – 104 
Company Identification Number - U74899HR2000PLC143012

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

TimbuckDo Partners with IdeaBaaz Startup Fest to Create Rs. 25 Lakh Worth of Earning Opportunities for 100+ Students
 

The partnership marks a significant milestone in TimbuckDo’s journey with IdeaBaaz. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now becoming a partner supporting one of its next major initiatives, TimbuckDo’s evolution reflects its growing role in India’s startup and youth employment ecosystem.
 

As the Workforce Partner, TimbuckDo will facilitate gig opportunities for 100+ students across various roles during the festival, enabling them to earn while gaining first-hand exposure to the startup ecosystem. Through the partnership, TimbuckDo has created Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for students in just five days, demonstrating the potential of gig work to connect young talent with large-scale business and ecosystem opportunities.
 

Through the initiative, students will work alongside startups, entrepreneurs, investors, and other ecosystem stakeholders, gaining a close view of what it takes to build, operate and execute within a large-scale startup environment. The experience will help students develop practical skills while creating a bridge between education and the professional world.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership extends its larger mission to champion student gig work and bring students into the mainstream economy through meaningful real-world opportunities. By enabling students to actively contribute to startup events and ecosystem initiatives, TimbuckDo aims to create a pathway where young talent can learn, earn, and participate in the growth of businesses and entrepreneurial communities.
 

The association also highlights the evolution of TimbuckDo’s relationship with IdeaBaaz. Having previously appeared on IdeaBaaz as a startup seeking funding, TimbuckDo is now contributing to the ecosystem as a partner creating opportunities for the next generation of talent through the same platform that was once part of its own entrepreneurial journey.
 

Commenting on the partnership, Mythri Kumar, Co-founder and CEO, TimbuckDo, said, “IdeaBaaz has been an important part of TimbuckDo’s journey. From appearing on the show as a startup seeking funding to now partnering on one of its next big initiatives is a very meaningful milestone for us. Through the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest, we are creating Rs. 25 lakh worth of earning opportunities for more than 100 students in just five days, allowing them to earn, work, and experience the startup ecosystem from the inside. We believe student gig work can play a powerful role in bringing young talent into the mainstream economy and entrepreneurship ecosystem. When students get the opportunity to work alongside startups and entrepreneurs, they get a close view of what it really takes to build and grow a business. This partnership is about creating meaningful value for students by giving them the opportunity to earn, gain practical experience, build confidence and understand the startup ecosystem from within. We see this as a strong reflection of what TimbuckDo stands for creating opportunities that enable students to learn, earn and grow. We see this as a great value proposition for student onboarding in September.”
 

Jeet Wagh & Mudit Kumar, Co-founders, IdeaBaaz, said, “Seeing TimbuckDo, one of the startups from Season 1, now come on board as the Workforce Partner for the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest is a full-circle moment for us. It reflects what we have always believed at IdeaBaaz our relationship with founders should not end when the show does. As we take IdeaBaaz from the screen to a live startup ecosystem in Delhi, it is exciting to have founders from our first season become partners in building what comes next. This partnership with TimbuckDo echoes our commitment to staying invested in the startup ecosystem and creating opportunities for founders beyond the show.”
 

The partnership makes students active participants in the IdeaBaaz Startup Fest rather than passive attendees. By contributing to the execution of the festival, students will gain exposure to the people, processes, and opportunities that shape the startup ecosystem.
 

For TimbuckDo, the partnership represents a broader vision for how student gig work can become an entry point into the professional world helping students build practical experience, understand entrepreneurship up close and develop the skills and networks needed to navigate the world of work.
 

The partnership brings together students, startups, entrepreneurs and the wider startup ecosystem, creating a model where young talent can earn, learn and contribute while businesses and ecosystem platforms gain access to a new generation of talent.
 

About TimbuckDo
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Bengaluru, TimbuckDo Innovations Pvt Ltd is a student gig and growth platform that empowers India's youth to earn, learn, and grow. Co-founded by Mythri Kumar and Apoorv Sharma Prasad, the company connects students with verified part-time gigs, internships, and project-based opportunities while also offering financial literacy tools, lifestyle benefits, and upskilling resources. TimbuckDo's mission is to bridge the gap between education and employability by creating a trusted ecosystem where students gain practical exposure, financial independence, and career readiness during their academic journey.

Chitkara University signs MOU with Paramotor Digital Technology Limited to establish the Sonia Asher Centre of Excellence in Future Technologies and Innovation

The Centre will bring together students and faculty across engineering, business, design, mass communication and law, providing exposure to emerging technologies, industry practices, real-world applications and interdisciplinary learning.

Through this initiative, Paramotor will bring its industry experience into the learning environment via mentorship, workshops, hackathons, practitioner interactions and industry projects. Students will gain practical exposure to areas such as digital payments, fintech platforms, AI, data science and technology-enabled financial services, helping bridge the gap between academic learning and industry applications.

Expressing her opinion at the inauguration, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co- Founder of Chitkara University, said, "Technology is reshaping the financial landscape at an unprecedented pace, and preparing students for this transformation requires more than academic knowledge; it demands meaningful engagement with industry, real-world problem-solving and an interdisciplinary perspective. The Sonia Asher Centre of Excellence in Future Technologies and Innovation reflects our commitment to creating learning ecosystems where students can engage with emerging technologies, understand their applications and develop the confidence to innovate. Through this collaboration with Paramotor Digital Technology Limited, we aim to equip our students with the skills, adaptability and future-oriented mindset needed to contribute meaningfully to the evolving fintech and technology ecosystem.”

Sonia Asher, Executive Chairperson and Whole-Time Director, Paramotor Digital Technology Limited, said, “Fintech needs talent that can connect technology with real-world problems. Through this Centre, we hope to help students build the skills and perspective needed to shape what comes next.”

The initiative will also support faculty development, student projects, innovation programmes and industry interaction. Internship and employment opportunities, where applicable, will remain subject to defined selection and performance criteria.

The Centre aims to bring academia and industry closer, giving students practical perspectives and exposure that can help prepare them for opportunities across the evolving fintech and technology landscape.

About Chitkara University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About EuroKids Preschool

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

The Group

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

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.

Super Giants vs Sunrisers: Jonty Rhodes Predicts Winner in Match 30

Old Trafford is known for extra pace and bounce, so the pacers who nail those hard lengths early are going to dominate the power set.

"For the batters, their power alone isn't enough on these big boundaries. You need smart placement, quick running between the wickets, and the composure to absorb pressure in those middle overs," Rhodes notes.

Jonty Rhodes thinks that players must force errors from the opponent.

"So, where does this game get won? Body language and field pressure," Rhodes says. "The team that creates panic in the inner ring and cuts off those boundaries will break the opposition."

Currently, both squads are tied on points in the table, making this match crucial for securing a top-three playoff spot. As The Hundred reaches its decisive stages, both franchises are eager to reach the finals after missing out on the trophy in recent seasons, adding extra stakes to this clash.

For more exclusive predictions from Jonty Rhodes, follow Parimatch's official social media channels for regular match analysis and expert insights.
 

Contributed by- Chief Cricket Analyst, Jonty Rhodes

The University climbed in three major categories led by a four-place jump to No. 2 in the country for placements. The placement result, up from No. 6 last year, was the University's sharpest gain in the survey.

Across the categories, Galgotias University now ranks:

• No. 2 in India for BBA placements, up from No. 6

• No. 8 among India's Top 70 BBA institutes, up from No. 9

• No. 5 among private BBA universities in India, up from No. 6

• No. 5 among BBA institutes in North India, holding last year's position

Galgotias University ranks #2 in India for Placements in the Times BBA Survey 2026

Placement results across the University

The BBA ranking rests on placement numbers that run strong across the University. In the 2026 drive, Galgotias University students secured more than 5,500 offers from over 1,250 recruiting organisations. The highest package reached INR 60 lakh per annum, the average package stood at INR 5.4 lakh per annum, and the top internship carried a stipend of INR 1.25 lakh per month.

Prominent recruiters included top-tier technology, financial services and consulting firms. Infosys made 526 offers, Capgemini 228, Cognizant 205, City Union Bank 188, Accenture 91 and EY 61. The wider recruiter list includes Cisco, JPMorgan, Deloitte, KPMG and Tata Power. Hiring for the 2026-27 cohort is already underway, with early offers from Deloitte, EY and KPMG.

Industry connect

The placement record follows directly from how the University teaches. Galgotias University runs close to 20 industry-aligned Centres of Excellence and learning centres built with firms including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, Salesforce and IBM. These centres give students hands-on work with current technology, industry-certified learning paths and direct contact with practitioners, so graduates arrive at recruiters already familiar with the tools and expectations of the job.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, "Rising from sixth to second in the country for BBA placements tells our students and faculty that the approach is working. We built the programme around practical education, workplace skills and close industry engagement, and these results show up in where our graduates land. Our job now is to keep giving students the knowledge, experience and opportunities to build strong careers and lead as business changes around them."

Growing national and global standing

The Times BBA result follows a series of recent rankings for Galgotias University and its School of Business.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band, 16th among private universities in India and 46th among all Indian universities, public and private combined. It marks the third year in a row that the University has featured among India's top private institutions, and it ranks among the top three in Uttar Pradesh.

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed 27th among private universities in India and its Business and Economics discipline entered the 601-800 global band.

The India Today-MDRA Best Colleges Survey 2026 ranked the School of Business 3rd among BBA institutions in Uttar Pradesh.

Each survey uses its own methodology and criteria. Read together, they cover the University's performance across placements, academic quality, research and international standing.

Galgotias University ties management education to internships, live projects, entrepreneurship, technology-enabled learning and direct work with industry professionals. Students solve real business problems and build skills in decision-making, communication, teamwork and leadership. The University plans to expand its industry partnerships, hands-on learning and career-development programmes further.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Strengthening India's Global Education Presence

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

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

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

Looking Ahead

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

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

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

About Edubex Learning

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

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

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

Website: www.edubex.com.

MAHE-IBM inaugurated the AI Lab in Bengaluru

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parimatch Releases New TV Commercial Featuring David Warner

The video features the legendary cricketer in a series of surprising and humorous situations inspired by the moments that have made him a fan favourite. Warner breaks into a Bollywood-style dance, a nod to his viral TikTok videos inspired by Indian culture, rides a mechanical bull in a playful reference to his fan-given nickname, and delivers his signature cricket shot. The real fun, however, begins on Parimatch, where the brand's new philosophy comes to life: "We entertain. You win."

According to the Parimatch Press Office, David was the natural choice to lead the campaign. Charismatic, authentic, and fully dedicated to his craft, he perfectly embodies the brand's evolved positioning.

"David's openness to new experiences, combined with his genuine passion for the game, perfectly reflects the values that lie at the heart of Parimatch's brand. Alongside the innovative gaming approach, we offer our users endless opportunities for fun, thrilling wins, and lasting enjoyment," said the Parimatch Press Office.

The new video marks another milestone in the long-lasting and fruitful partnership between Parimatch and David Warner, united by a shared commitment to promoting sportsmanship and responsible gaming among millions of cricket fans worldwide.

Watch the new campaign video on Parimatch's YouTube channel.

Bisleri International Partners with Ultimate Table Tennis as Official Hydration Partner for the Second Year

Through this association, the brand aims to enhance fan engagement and visibility with an integrated presence across on-ground and media platforms. The partnership will feature prominent branding across LED boards & perimeter boards, showcasing brand film, television commercials, exclusive campaign shoots, visi coolers, iceboxes, and a robust digital campaign with amplification of videos across digital platforms, ensuring extensive engagement with audiences throughout the tournament.

Commenting on the association, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, said,"We're proud to partner with Ultimate Table Tennis as its Official Hydration Partner. The league has played a key role in growing table tennis in India, and we're excited to support its journey. By helping athletes stay hydrated and connecting with fans, this partnership reflects our commitment to Indian sport and the role hydration plays in performance."

Commenting on the partnership, Vita Dani, Chairperson Ultimate Table Tennis said, "We are pleased to welcome Bisleri International as the Official Hydration Partner of Ultimate Table Tennis. As a brand synonymous with trust and quality, Bisleri's association aligns with our commitment to delivering a world-class sporting experience for players and fans alike. We look forward to working together over the next three years to elevate the league through impactful fan engagement and integrated brand experiences."

The partnership begins with Season 7 of Ultimate Table Tennis, taking place from July 9 to July 26, 2026, at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. The long-term association reflects Bisleri's continued commitment to supporting Indian sport, promoting athlete wellness, and strengthening its presence across one of the country's premier table tennis leagues.

Link: www.instagram.com/reel/DbS5LF6zovc/?igsh=MWNkOWV6cTh0Mm9hMA==

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

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

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

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

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

DACE Athletic Club Launches in RK Puram

Spread across nearly one acre, the facility features dedicated infrastructure for padel, pickleball, football, yoga, table tennis, and other recreational formats, positioning itself at the intersection of sport, lifestyle, and social engagement. Built within the DTEA campus in Delhi, the club also follows a unique access model where the infrastructure is made available free of cost to thousands of school students during the day, while operating as a private sports facility during early mornings and evenings.

DACE Athletic Club Launches in RK Puram

DACE enters the market with a clear focus on accessibility, community engagement, and experience driven recreation. While sports like pickleball and padel continue to gain popularity among younger audiences and working professionals, Delhi has lacked integrated spaces that bring multiple formats together within a premium yet community-oriented environment.

Conceptualised and privately funded by entrepreneur Puranjay Katara, DACE Athletic Club reflects the growing cultural shift towards social sports and immersive wellness experiences in urban India.

“Across global cities, sports infrastructure is increasingly evolving into community infrastructure,” says Puranjay Katara, Founder & Director, DACE Athletic Club. “India is now entering a similar phase where consumers are looking beyond conventional gyms and transactional fitness formats. The opportunity lies in creating spaces people consistently engage with socially, recreationally, and culturally. DACE was built keeping that long-term behavioural shift in mind.”

Unlike standalone courts or traditional sports clubs, DACE has been structured as a long-format recreational destination with extended operational hours from 5 AM to 8 AM and 2:30 PM to 1 AM for members. Bookings are available exclusively through Huddle.

The facility offers multiple sporting formats across varying group sizes and playing preferences, with off-peak padel court bookings starting at INR 2200 per hour, pickleball at INR 1100 per hour, and football box formats beginning at INR 2400 per hour for 7v7 games.

As Delhi’s wellness landscape continues to evolve beyond routine workouts and conventional fitness spaces, DACE Athletic Club enters the city as a modern sporting destination built around movement, culture, and community.

About DACE Athletic Club
DACE Athletic Club is a next-generation private sports and wellness destination redefining how urban India experiences recreation. Built around the philosophy of community-led movement, the club brings together emerging sports, fitness, and social experiences within a premium, inclusive environment. Located in RK Puram, New Delhi, DACE seamlessly blends world-class sporting infrastructure with a unique community-first model, making movement, connection, and active living more accessible for both members and young students alike. 
 

FACT SHEET | DACE Athletic Club
Address: DACE Athletic Club,DTEA Campus, RK Puram, New Delhi

Operating Timings:

• Private Members Access: 5:00 AM to  8:00 AM & 2:30 PM to 1:00 AM

• DTEA School Student Access: 8:00 AM to  2:30 PM

Pricing Structure:

Padel Courts

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 2200 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 2400 per hour

Pickleball Courts

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 1100 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 1300 per hour

Box

7 vs 7

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 2400 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 2700 per hour

8 vs 8

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 2800 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 3100 per hour

9 vs 9

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 3200 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 3500 per hour

10 vs 10

• Off-Peak Hours: INR 3600 per hour

• Peak Hours: INR 4000 per hour

Bookings Available Via:
Huddle

Parimatch Sports Joins India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 as Official Co-Sponsor

More than just another bilateral series, the India Tour of Sri Lanka is a contest shaped by history, home advantage and the unique demands of Test cricket. India have won 22 of the 46 Test matches between the teams, while Sri Lanka's seven victories have all come on home soil, making every visit to the island a formidable challenge for India.

Cricket has always been at the heart of Parimatch Sports, and this partnership reflects the brand's long-standing connection with the game. From the opening ball to the final session, Parimatch Sports will be part of the India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 through the official Sony Sports Network broadcast and the Behind-the-Wicket Mat, bringing fans closer to the moments that make Test cricket unforgettable.

"The India Tour of Sri Lanka is one of the most exciting contests on the international calendar, and we're proud to be part of it. Through this partnership, we hope to make every day of the series even more engaging for cricket fans and add to the excitement of a series that means so much to millions of supporters," said the Parimatch Sports Press Office.

The India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network across television and digital platforms, giving fans the opportunity to follow every session, every spell and every turning point of the series.

Stay tuned to the India Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 and follow Parimatch Sports for exclusive cricket content and the latest highlights throughout the tour.

The action-packed basketball championship at Galgotias University brought together 800 athletes representing 56 teams from across Uttar Pradesh

The championship formed part of Galgotias University’s focus on integrating sport with academic and personal development. The University provides students with access to training, coaching, sports infrastructure, and competitive opportunities alongside their academic programmes. This approach supports physical well-being and helps students develop discipline, teamwork, decision-making, leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure.

The basketball championship followed the University’s recent success at the first World Yogasana Championship 2026, where Galgotias University students secured five gold medals. The two developments represent different aspects of the University’s sports programme - preparing its students for national and international competitions and providing the infrastructure required to host large state-level tournaments.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “Sport is an important part of education because it develops discipline, resilience, teamwork, and responsibility. Our objective is to ensure that students have access to the facilities, coaching, and competitive exposure required to develop their abilities. Hosting this championship, along with the recent achievement of five gold medals by our students at the World Yogasana Championship, reflects the importance we place on holistic student development.”

The closing ceremony was attended by Mr. Dileep Singh, Honorary General Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Basketball Association, as Chief Guest, and Mr. R. S. Bedi, Vice-President, Uttar Pradesh Basketball Association, as Guest of Honour.

Mr. Bedi appreciated Galgotias University for providing well-maintained sporting facilities and an organised competitive environment for the 56 participating teams. He noted that tournaments of this scale give young athletes sustained match exposure, help them improve their skills, and prepare them for higher levels of basketball. He also encouraged students to participate regularly in sports to develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

In the girls’ championship, Bulandshahr won the title, Meerut finished as runner-up, and Agra secured third place. Deepika Chauhan of Agra, Jersey No. 08, was named Best Player, while Sadhana of Bulandshahr, Jersey No. 13, received the Emerging Player Award.

In the boys’ championship, Meerut won the championship trophy, Triple Tec finished as runner-up, and Gautam Buddh Nagar secured third place. Tejas of Meerut, Jersey No. 07, was named Best Player, while Vedant Sidh of Gautam Buddh Nagar, Jersey No. 10, received the Emerging Player Award.

The championship provided young athletes with sustained competitive exposure and opportunities to play against teams representing different districts and sporting institutions. It also enabled coaches and officials to assess emerging basketball talent across the boys’ and girls’ categories.

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.

Parimatch Sports Becomes Official Sponsor of Colombo Kaps for LPL 2026
 

Representing Sri Lanka's capital, Colombo Kaps have established themselves as one of the league's strongest contenders since the Lanka Premier League was launched in 2020. Consistently reaching the knockout stages, the team has built a reputation for attacking cricket, competitive performances and a squad featuring some of the game's most exciting international and Sri Lankan talent, including James Neesham, Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Kusal Mendis.
 

Parimatch Sports and Colombo Kaps share the same competitive mindset — believing that success belongs to those willing to play boldly, embrace every challenge and keep striving for more. During the Lanka Premier League, Parimatch Sports will support the team and bring fans closer to their favourite players through memorable experiences on and off the field.
 

"Colombo Kaps are a team that perfectly reflects the qualities we admire in sport — confidence, ambition and the courage to play attacking cricket. We're excited to create unforgettable moments that connect fans with the players and the game they love," said the Parimatch Sports Press Office.
 

As part of the partnership, Parimatch Sports will organise fan activations during the Lanka Premier League. Fans can look forward to opportunities to meet Colombo Kaps players, collect signed merchandise and enjoy unforgettable experiences beyond match day.
 

The Lanka Premier League runs from 17 July to 8 August 2026. During the tournament, Colombo Kaps will face regional rivals Galle Gallants, Kandy Royals, Jaffna Kings and Dambulla Sixers, with their sights set on the play-offs and the championship title.
 

Follow Parimatch Sports on social media to be the first to hear about exclusive fan experiences, Meet & Greet events and the latest updates throughout the Lanka Premier League.

Somaiya Vidyavihar University welcomes the world to the campus

Over the next seven days, Brazil, the People's Republic of China, Czechia, Spain, France, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Hong Kong China, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, South Africa, Singapore, Switzerland and the host nation India will compete on Somaiya Vidyavihar University's World Squash Federation-certified courts. Yet the significance of the championship extends beyond the competition itself.

For the athletes, it is an opportunity to represent their countries on one of the world's premier stages for university sport. More than 120 student volunteers from colleges across India, including 60–70 from Mumbai, came together to support the championship alongside thousands of young people on campus. A world championship is no longer an event happening elsewhere; it is unfolding right here in Mumbai at their very own Somaiya Vidyavihar University. It is an opportunity to witness international competition firsthand, contribute to an event of global significance and recognise that a university campus can be a place where world-class sporting moments are experienced, organised and created.

Somaiya Vidyavihar University has consistently invested in sporting infrastructure, athlete development and competitive pathways that enable students to pursue excellence in both academics and sport. From hosting national university championships and developing World Squash Federation-certified courts to supporting the Indian university squash contingent, it has created an environment where aspiring athletes can compete at the highest levels while continuing their education. Hosting the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash is therefore not an isolated milestone, but the culmination of years of sustained institutional commitment to university sport.

For Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the championship carries an equally personal significance. Having played squash for more than four decades, including during his years as a student overseas, he has long believed that a sport often associated with private clubs and limited access should be accessible within a university campus. His conviction has shaped the University's approach to sport, where every student is encouraged to participate in at least one sporting discipline and the world-class Somaiya Sports Academy, Eklavya, has been developed to ensure access and opportunity are available to all. Hosting the championship represents not only another institutional milestone, but also another step in fulfilling a promise that began decades ago.

"When I went abroad to study, my grandfather asked me to build a university like the one I wanted to study in. Hosting the FISU World University Championship Squash is one more step in fulfilling that promise. Sport teaches us far more than winning. It teaches us to compete with ourselves, to work together, to lead, to lose with grace and to grow as individuals. Those are opportunities every student deserves. That is why sport is an integral part of education at Somaiya." - Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University.

As squash prepares for its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, events such as the FISU World University Championship create important pathways for student-athletes to compete internationally while continuing their education. They also reflect the increasingly important role universities play in developing sporting talent, investing in world-class infrastructure and strengthening the future of sport. Hosting the championship reinforces both Somaiya Vidyavihar University's commitment to university sport and India's growing stature as a destination for international sporting events.

Welcoming the athletes, officials and delegates, Professor Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, Association of Indian Universities, reflected on the role universities play in shaping not only accomplished scholars but responsible citizens. Drawing upon the story of Eklavya, he described education as a journey where determination triumphs over privilege. He reaffirmed that sport remains one of the greatest classrooms for resilience, teamwork and character.

In India's ancient tradition, sport has always been far more than a means to stay fit or compete. It is a way to discover one's potential, build character and realise one's true purpose. Sport teaches us how to work together, grow together and achieve together, lessons that extend far beyond the playing field. That is why I believe every university should make sport an integral part of education, helping students develop not only as scholars, but also as responsible individuals and members of society."

Representing FISU, Martin Dalton, Executive Committee Senior Member, reflected on the journey that brought the championship to Mumbai and acknowledged the partnership between Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the Association of Indian Universities and the many organisations that worked together to make the event possible. He commended the University's commitment to delivering an international championship that reflects the highest standards of university sport and encouraged every athlete to embrace not only the competition but also the cultural experience that India has to offer."Right from the onset of the event's attribution, the organising committee, led by our gracious host, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, supported by the Association of Indian Universities and the many event partners, have shared one dream, epitomised by the slogan, 'Smashing Barriers, Uniting Nations.' My FISU colleagues and I truly appreciate the efforts taken to make the event one of the best FISU World Championships held this year."

Declaring the championship officially open, Shri Venugopal Reddy, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher and Technical Education Department, Government of Maharashtra, welcomed the international contingent to Mumbai and described the event as an expression of India's enduring philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. He expressed confidence that the championship would foster lasting friendships and strengthen the bonds between young people from across the world through the spirit of sport.

"It is indeed a matter of pride, not only for Somaiya Vidyavihar University but also for Mumbai city, and I think I can include our department as well in taking pride in organising this event. I am sure the sporting event will build lasting relations between the sportspersons of the various nations and will bring lasting friendships in the course of the tournament."

The opening ceremony also celebrated the cultural exchange that lies at the heart of the FISU movement. Through an evocative sand art performance, acclaimed artist Nitish Bharati brought to life India's rich heritage, timeless traditions, spirit of learning, sporting excellence and warm hospitality, culminating in Somaiya Vidyavihar University's journey to hosting the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash in Mumbai. This was followed by The Golden Bird – A Journey Across Cultures, a vibrant cultural production celebrating India's diversity while reflecting the friendship and cultural exchange that define the FISU movement. Representatives from FISU also commended Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the Association of Indian Universities and the organising committee for delivering a championship marked by world-class facilities, dedicated volunteers and the warmth of Indian hospitality.

Behind the ceremony, however, was another story, one that unfolded long before the first delegation arrived in Mumbai. Months of preparation by the organising committee, coaches, staff and more than 120 student volunteers transformed an ambitious vision into an international championship. For many of the volunteers, it was their first experience of delivering an event of this scale. For the organising team, it was the culmination of years of planning, collaboration and belief that a university campus could successfully host the world.

That spirit found its most heartfelt expression during the ceremony itself. Stepping away from the prepared programme, Samir Somaiya invited Aazaz Khan, Director, Somaiya Sports Academy, onto the stage in recognition of the team behind the championship. It was a reminder that institutions are not built by individuals alone. They are built by people who choose to believe in a shared purpose and work together to realise it. Aazaz Khan acknowledged the collective effort that made the championship possible and thanked the Association of Indian Universities and FISU for placing their trust in Somaiya Vidyavihar University, describing the championship as the outcome of a shared vision realised through teamwork.

The University also acknowledged the support of its partners in bringing the championship to life. One8, the Official India Jersey Partner, proudly supports Team India as it competes on home soil. Taj The Trees, Mumbai, is hosting athletes, officials and delegates from around the world, reflecting the warmth and professionalism with which India welcomes international sporting events.

As the ceremony concluded, the celebrations gave way to competition. Over the coming week, champions will be crowned, and medals will be awarded, but the championship has already achieved something that will endure far beyond the final match. It has shown how a vision can be carried across generations, how dreams grow stronger when they are shared, and how trust between mentors and students, institutions and partners, organisers and volunteers, and universities and young athletes can create opportunities that inspire far beyond the boundaries of sport.

For one week, Mumbai becomes the meeting point of global university sport. Long after the final point is played, the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash will be remembered not only for the competition it hosted, but for the belief it reaffirmed—that universities are places where opportunity is created, where communities come together to build something greater than themselves, and where a single vision, shared across generations, can inspire countless futures.

Please Note: Fans around the world can watch the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and live championship matches across FISU TV, SquashTV, Prasar Bharati,, Waves OTT, and India Squash TV.
 

About FISU

Since its founding in 1949, the International University Sports Federation is the key driver to expand the role and reach of university sport around the world. FISU serves as the global platform for world university sport at all levels through sport events, educational initiatives and wellbeing. Together with its members and continental organisations, FISU supports students, connects universities and leads cultural exchange. FISU fosters academic-athletic balance and promotes wellbeing, respect, excellence and inclusion for generations to come. www.fisu.net

About Association of Indian Universities AIU

The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) is the apex National Sports Promotion Organization (NSPO) for university sports in India and one of the largest associations of universities in the world, representing 1,200+ member universities. For over nine decades, AIU has played a pivotal role in promoting university sports, identifying grassroots sporting talent, and providing a structured pathway for student-athletes to excel at the national and international levels.

As the country's largest organized university sports ecosystem, AIU conducts 230+ Inter-University Tournaments annually across 58 sports disciplines at the zonal and national levels. Through the active participation of 1,100+ universities, 47,000+ affiliated colleges, and 25,000+ colleges in inter-collegiate competitions, AIU provides competitive opportunities to more than 2.2 million student-athletes from a base of over one crore college students.

AIU serves as the primary feeder system for India's national and international multi-sport events by nurturing emerging talent, fostering excellence in sports, and strengthening the university sports movement across the country. In collaboration with its member universities, AIU continues to create opportunities for student-athletes to represent India with distinction on global sporting platforms. aiu.ac.in

About Somaiya Vidyavihar University

Somaiya Vidyavihar University (Accredited with an A Grade by NAAC), established in 2019, is a leading multidisciplinary university in India, built upon the 84-year legacy of Somaiya Vidyavihar. Its approach to education is centred on पेशा (profession), सोच (mindset), and चरित्र (character), preparing students to excel in their chosen fields while empowering them to embrace endless possibilities.

The University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programmes across disciplines including Engineering & Technology, Management, Commerce & Business Studies, Basic & Applied Sciences, Education, Humanities & Social Sciences, Design, Film, Music & Performing Arts, Sports, Dharma Studies, Civilisation Studies, Languages & Literature, and Library & Information Science. Through interdisciplinary learning, research, industry partnerships, experiential education, and a vibrant startup incubation ecosystem, Somaiya Vidyavihar University empowers students to transform knowledge into meaningful impact for society. www.somaiya.edu.

Ritu Phogat Shares Her Inspiring Journey on Parimatch Sports’ Inside the Game

Ritu Phogat’s career reflects the spirit that Parimatch Sports celebrates — the courage to step into the unknown, the discipline to keep improving and the resilience to keep moving forward. Her story shows how dedication and the willingness to grow can help athletes achieve more and pursue bigger goals.

After making her mark in wrestling, Ritu embraced a new chapter in MMA. In the episode, she explains that the opportunity to learn disciplines such as jiu-jitsu and kickboxing and constantly challenge herself made the transition a natural next step in her career. “I switched from wrestling to MMA because I wanted to become the first MMA world champion. I found it exciting because it gave me the opportunity to learn new skills and challenge myself,” said Ritu Phogat.

Ritu also shares more personal stories about her life beyond competition, including the people and experiences that continue to motivate her. “Champions have a responsibility beyond just winning. There are many things that happen in life — I am a mother, a wife, a sister and a daughter as well. When you have a goal, it gives you motivation, and that helps you continue moving forward,” explained Ritu Phogat.

Ritu reflects on the difficult moments behind every achievement, including losses and setbacks, “There have been times when you work very hard but still lose, and that is one of the most difficult moments for any athlete. But those moments teach you the most. My father and my elder sisters motivate me to work harder and come back stronger,” she added.

Watch the Inside the Game episode with Ritu Phogat on YouTube and get to know the champion behind the medals. Subscribe to the Parimatch Sports channel for more conversations with the world's top athletes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Tata Consumer Products Limited

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

Lucknow to host India's first women's volleyball league

The official unveiling took place at The Centrum, Lucknow, under the theme "Rising Queen of the Court." The high-profile ceremony was attended by senior government dignitaries, sports administrators, and business leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister Shri Swatantra Dev Singh, Sports Minister Shri Girish Chandra Yadav, Transport Minister Shri Dayashankar Singh, and UP State Commission for Women Chairperson Dr. Babita Singh Chauhan.

The inaugural edition of the tournament is scheduled to run from November 1 to November 11, 2026, at the Ekana Indoor Stadium in Lucknow. The 11-day competition will feature six city-based franchises with a combined playing roster of 84 elite professional athletes, bringing 14 players to each team.

Despite volleyball commanding a global following of over 800 million players and fans, Indian women athletes have historically lacked a sustained, long-term professional platform to pursue the sport as a full-time career. The WPVL has been conceptualized to bridge that structural gap, creating a commercially viable framework focused on private investment, long-term athlete development, and grassroots growth.

Speaking at the launch, WPVL Founder Mr. Bukhrat Ahmad highlighted the broader vision behind the league, emphasizing that talent requires structured opportunity, visibility, and professional backing to thrive. He stated that the objective is to build an ecosystem where women athletes can compete professionally and inspire future generations.

Details regarding franchise identities, player auction procedures, and broadcast partnerships are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

About the Women’s Pro Volleyball League (WPVL)

The Women’s Pro Volleyball League (WPVL) is a national franchise-based professional volleyball league promoted by Power Spike International Private Limited. Established with a vision to elevate women’s volleyball in India, WPVL is committed to creating a sustainable sporting ecosystem through professional competition, athlete development, commercial partnerships and fan engagement.

The inaugural season is scheduled from 1–11 November 2026 at Ekana Indoor Stadium, Lucknow.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/womensprovolleyball
Website: www.womensprovolleyballleague.com

Unitile has been named among India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces™ 2026 – Top 100, reflecting its strong culture, employee empowerment, collaboration and growth
 

Unitile (United Access Floors Private Limited. United Office Systems Private Limited & United Acoustics Private Limited) has been recognised among India's Great Mid-size Workplaces™ 2026 - Top 100 (Rank 61), while also being honoured for India’s Best Workplaces™ in Cement & Building Materials 2026 and India’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing 2026 (Top 30).
 

Presented under the Unitile brand, the recognition extends across the organisation's group companies - United Access Floors Private Limited, United Office Systems Private Limited and United Acoustics Private Limited, reflecting a shared culture that transcends individual business verticals. Evaluated as a single organisation, the recognition honours the shared employee experience and workplace culture across the group's businesses.
 

As workplace culture remains a core driver of innovation, collaboration and long-term success, Unitile’s triple recognition from Great Place To Work® India reaffirms its commitment to building a high-trust, people-first organisation.
 

For Unitile, India's number 1 raised access floor brand, this recognition validates their philosophy which has helped their growth over the years that exceptional workplace are formed only by a people-first approach. Alongside continuous expansion in sustainable manufacturing excellence and product innovation, the company has remained equally committed in fostering a workplace that allows its employees to voice their ideas, collaborate across departments and grow with the organisation. This approach has shaped a workplace where leadership is accessible, ownership is encouraged and collaboration extends beyond departments.
 

The recognitions are awarded by Great Place To Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviours that drive market-leading business performance, employee retention and innovation. Based on one of the world's most rigorous workplace assessment methodologies, the recognition primarily reflects confidential employee feedback, offering an authentic measure of how people experience their organisation.
 

Commenting on the achievement, Idris Rajkotwala, Executive Director, Unitile, said, “We are truly humbled to be acknowledged by Great Place To Work® India with these awards. What makes us truly humble is the recognition from our valued employees who have trusted us and dedicated themselves wholeheartedly. We at Unitile believe that the culture of the organization forms the basis for success. When people are respected and empowered, they perform to the best of their abilities.”
 

These latest honours build on Unitile's consistent recognition among India's leading manufacturing workplaces, reaffirms that its culture is grounded in a lasting commitment to its people. As the company strengthens its position in the building materials sector, it remains focused on an environment where people and performance advance together.
 

About Unitile
With over three decades of industry leadership, Unitile is India's leading raised access flooring brand and a prominent manufacturer of premium building material solutions. Renowned for its engineering excellence, advanced manufacturing capabilities and customer-centric innovation, the company serves a diverse range of sectors including commercial workplaces, data centres, healthcare, education and infrastructure. Guided by a philosophy of continuous innovation and operational excellence, Unitile continues to set benchmarks for quality while fostering a workplace where people remain central to its long-term growth and success.

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.

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.

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.

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