Virohan Announces ₹2 Crore Scholarship To Promote Healthcare Education Among Women

* Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative opens pathways for female students to pursue healthcare programs across 20+ top universities and colleges in India

Virohan, India's leading healthcare education company, today announced the launch of the Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative, a ₹2 Crore scholarship pool designed to bring more women into India's growing healthcare sector.

Every eligible female applicant whether enrolling in a 4-5 year bachelor’s degree or a 1-year university certificate program through Virohan will receive a ₹50,000 scholarship. Students with 75% or above in Class 12 would qualify for ₹1,00,000 and those with 90% or above for ₹2,00,000 scholarship, applied upfront against the program fee.

Commenting on the initiative, Nalin Saluja, Co-founder and CTO, Virohan, said: "Healthcare is a profession of respect, stability, and purpose and one where women have always played a central role. The Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative is built on the belief that more women should have access to it. The world is facing a significant shortage of healthcare professionals and India has the talent to meet that demand, both at home and globally. What we have found is that awareness is the biggest barrier. Students don't know allied and healthcare paths exist, and parents don't know the industry demand and career progression these roles offer. This scholarship is our way of saying: the opportunity is real, the universities are ready, and we want more women to seize it."

The launch comes amid a growing shift in how students and parents are approaching healthcare careers. While medical degrees continue to attract significant interest, industry stakeholders are witnessing increased curiosity around allied and healthcare programs that offer structured career pathways across patient care, diagnostics, medical technology, rehabilitation, and healthcare operations.

Indian allied and healthcare graduates are also finding themselves increasingly sought after beyond domestic borders. Countries such as Australia, Germany, and Japan are grappling with ageing populations and acute healthcare workforce shortages and trained professionals from India are emerging as a natural fit for these markets, adding an international dimension to what has traditionally been seen as a domestic career path.

With Virohan, students can apply for programs at UPES (Dehradun), MIT University (Shillong), CMR University (Bengaluru), KIET Deemed to be University (Ghaziabad), HRIT University (Ghaziabad), Lingaya's Vidyapeeth Deemed-to-be-University (Faridabad), Silver Oak University (Ahmedabad), and Vikrant University (Gwalior), among many others.

The initiative marks a significant step by Virohan to expand access to healthcare education for women at a time when the sector's demand for trained professionals is outpacing supply both in India and abroad.

Admission Now Open

Female students and parents looking to explore healthcare programs and apply for the Virohan Women in Healthcare Initiative scholarship can call +91 8448299435 or visit www.virohan.com/scholarship. Applications are open now.

About Virohan

Virohan is India's leading healthcare education company with 13,000+ success stories, 20+ university and college partners, and a network of 2,000+ healthcare employers across the country. With a 98% placement record, Virohan prepares students for job-ready careers across the healthcare sector through its university and industry partnerships and industry-aligned education.

IISc Study Finds Namma Metro Yellow Line Can Improve Bengaluru Commuters' Health And Quality Of Life

Biocon Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Biocon Group, today announced the findings of a landmark study conducted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Sustainable Transportation Lab on the potential impact of the Namma Metro Yellow Line corridor connecting RV Road and Bommasandra on public health, wellbeing, and urban liveability.

The study demonstrated strong potential to improve the public health and overall quality of life of Bengaluru residents, while also signalling a scalable model that could deliver similar benefits across other Namma Metro lines.

The study, titled Assessing the Impact of Yellow Line Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) System on Public Health and Quality of Life: A Sustainable Urban Mobility Perspective, was supported and funded by Biocon Foundation, with follow-on support from the Electronics City Industries Association (ELCIA), and enabled by the Bengaluru Science and Technology Cluster (BeST Cluster) anchored at IISc. This collaboration underscores the growing role of cross-sector alignment in advancing evidence-based, sustainable urban mobility solutions.

The study represents the first rigorous, longitudinal evaluation of its kind for any Metro rail corridor in India. Its findings position urban transit not just as an infrastructure investment, but as a high-impact lever for advancing health outcomes, liveability, and sustainable urban growth.

Dr. Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, said, “At Biocon Foundation, we have consistently believed that access to sustainable public transport is fundamental to building healthier, more equitable cities. This study reinforces the broader value of investing in mass transit systems, not merely as mobility solutions, but as powerful enablers of public health, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life. The findings also highlight the need for an inclusive mobility ecosystem through stronger last-mile connectivity and safer pedestrian infrastructure. Public transport must remain at the centre of Bengaluru’s long-term urban development agenda.”

Prof. Ashish Verma, Principal Investigator, IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab, said, “This study on the Yellow Line Metro Rail Corridor has the potential to serve as a benchmark for understanding how shared, electric, and active mobility modes contribute not only to sustainable transportation but also to broader development goals such as liveability, public health, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability. The findings demonstrate the importance of viewing public transport investments as critical interventions for improving air quality, health outcomes, and overall quality of life.”

Shri Anantharaman, Chief Executive Officer, Foundation for Bengaluru Science and Technology Cluster (BeST Cluster), said, “The BeST Cluster was established to bring science and evidence-based research to address Bengaluru’s most pressing urban challenges. This study exemplifies that mission by integrating transportation engineering with public health research to generate actionable insights for policymakers. We hope these findings will guide Metro authorities, urban planners, and public agencies in building a healthier and more sustainable Bengaluru.”

The study was led by Prof. Ashish Verma, Professor of Transportation Systems Engineering at IISc and Convenor of the IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab. Using a robust longitudinal research design, the team surveyed 600 commuters and residents along the Yellow Line corridor through baseline assessments conducted in September 2025, followed by a post-implementation survey conducted in March 2026, six months after the commencement of metro operations.

The findings also indicate strong public willingness to adopt Metro-based transportation, with 83% of respondents expressing readiness to shift to the Yellow Line. The study further demonstrates that Metro usage can contribute to increased physical activity through additional walking, reduced exposure to air pollution and heat, improved mental wellbeing, stronger social connectivity, enhanced workplace productivity, and lower road accident risk through reduced dependence on two-wheelers.

The study recommends a series of policy interventions to strengthen Metro adoption and maximise public health outcomes. These include strengthening last-mile connectivity through feeder services and shared mobility options, as well as upgrading pedestrian infrastructure for safer station access. It also recommends integrating public health considerations into transport planning and promoting Metro systems as a sustainable mode of transport that reduces pollution exposure while enhancing mental and social wellbeing.

The research was conducted by the IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. The research team comprised Prof. Ashish Verma, Dr. Priyanka Das, and Ms. Ann Das, with advisory support from Prof. Prabhdeep Kaur of the Isaac Centre for Public Health, IISc, and Prof. Aruna Sivakumar of Imperial College London.

About Biocon Foundation:

Biocon Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of Biocon Limited and Syngene International Limited, has been advancing social and economic inclusion since 2005. Its programs focus on healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and civic infrastructure, with strong partnerships across government and civil society.

DevX Scales Bengaluru Portfolio With Prestige Group, Adds 1.11 Lakh SqFt

* Expansion adds 1200 seats across two Grade A+ developments in one of India’s most active office corridors

* DevX Partners with Prestige Group for Prestige Lakeshore Drive Development

Dev Accelerator Limited, among India’s leading premium managed workspace providers and one of the country’s fastest growing companies, as recognised by Hurun India, has strengthened its Bengaluru presence with the acquisition of two premium Grade A+ office assets in partnership with the Prestige Group, marking a significant scale-up in the city’s high-demand Outer Ring Road (ORR) micro-market. The expansion, spanning 1.11 lakh Sq ft, will add over 1,200 seats to DevX’s portfolio and is expected to generate approximately ₹2.2 crore in monthly revenue.

The first asset, located at Lakeshore Drive opposite Bellandur Lake, sits within a sprawling 90 acres corporate campus that houses global occupiers Establishing a presence in this elite corporate ecosystem allows the company to offer unparalleled networking and infrastructure advantages. The premium asset, exclusively designed to cater to evolving enterprise requirements, is expected to launch on 1st August 2026, with an investment of approximately ₹10 crore towards fit-outs and infrastructure development.

The second development, Prestige Featherlite Tech Hub, is an integrated Grade A+ asset that champions the Walk to Work model. The asset caters to occupiers prioritising reduced commute times, improved employee experience, and operational efficiency.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Umesh Uttamchandani Managing Director of Dev Accelerator Limited stated that “Expanding within Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road is a strategic step aligned with where we see long-term demand consolidating. Our collaboration with Prestige Group allows us to bring institutional-grade workspaces to a market that continues to attract GCCs and enterprise occupiers at scale. Furthermore, we are witnessing strong demand from AI-native GCCs, particularly those operating in the manufacturing and retail sectors. These additions strengthen our ability to offer high-quality, flexible environments that are both growth-ready and operationally efficient.”

Mr Juggy Marwaha – CEO & Executive Director of Prestige Group added “We are pleased to partner with DevX for our premium commercial developments on Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road. At Prestige Group, our focus has consistently been on creating sustainable Grade A+ ecosystems that support the evolving needs of global enterprises. DevX’s enterprise-led approach and operational expertise align well with the positioning of Prestige Lakeshore Drive and Prestige Featherlite Tech Hub. We believe this collaboration will further strengthen the value proposition of these developments for companies seeking agile, future-ready work environments in one of Bengaluru’s most strategic offices.”

Securing prime real estate on the Outer Ring Road strengthens the DevX footprint in one of Asia largest IT corridors. The dual acquisition caters to the rising demand for flexible institutional grade workspaces among global capability centers and large enterprises.

About Dev Accelerator Limited

Dev Accelerator Limited is an enterprise-focused, full-solution managed workspace platform and has been recognised among the “India’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2026” by Hurun India. The company designs, builds, and operates custom offices end-to-end covering site selection, bespoke fit-outs, technology integration, and facility management under a single SLA.

With one of India’s largest Tier-2 footprints by operational flex stock, DevX serves enterprises, startups, and global corporations with collaborative, customizable work environments across the country. The company operates 28 centres across multiple Indian cities with over 17,000 seats and 1.2 million sq. ft. under management. This is complemented by design-and-build and allied services that ensure fast handovers and consistent standards.For more information, visit www.devx.work

SAP Technology Powering Global Businesses Is Now Accessible To Students In India

In college campuses across India, students are familiar with companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra. What many do not realize is that behind most of the world’s leading businesses lies a common technology: SAP.

To help students gain exposure, SAP is offering free access to SAP Learning Hub, student edition. The platform helps learners certify in enterprise technologies.

“Businesses need talent that understands digital operations across functions like finance, supply chain, HR, and customer experience,” said Tine Vandenbreeden, Global VP SIX Partner Solution Enablement, SAP.

SAP Learning Hub, student edition includes access to learning resources, expert-led sessions, real SAP practice systems, and two free SAP Certification attempts. Students from various academic streams can explore SAP Learning Journeys mapped to business roles.

For more information on the free SAP Learning Hub, student edition, visit https://learning.sap.com/free-student-edition.

An Evening Stirred by Kaitlyn Stewart at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru

Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru invites connoisseurs to an extraordinary evening at SHIMMER, as globally acclaimed bartender Kaitlyn Stewart takes over the bar for an exclusive, one-night experience. Recognised as Diageo’s World Class Bartender of the Year and among the world’s most influential voices in mixology, Kaitlyn brings over two decades of mastery, artistry, and storytelling to every pour.

Guests can experience an immersive bar takeover, where each cocktail reflects Kaitlyn’s signature style and global influences, set within an atmosphere of refined elegance. Evolving from award-winning creations to an influential presence across the world’s most distinguished bar circuits, Kaitlyn’s craft embodies innovation, precision, and an enduring passion for elevating the art of mixology. Her illustrious journey spanning international guest shifts, acclaimed seminars, and global recognition including the Drinks International Bar World 100 culminates in an unmissable expression of modern cocktail artistry.

Details
Venue: SHIMMER, Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru
Date: Friday, 5th June 2026
Time: 8:00 PM onwards

Reservations: +91 76250 72899

Indulge in an evening where world-class craftsmanship meets understated sophistication, exclusively at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru. 

Air India’s Maharaja Club Named ‘Program Of The Year’ At The Freddie Awards 2026

* Wins ‘Program of the Year’ in the Middle East & Asia Pacific region at the Freddie Awards 2026

Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced that its loyalty programme, Maharaja Club, has been named ‘Program of the Year’ in the Middle East & Aisa Pacific region at the prestigious Freddie Awards 2026.

The award marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Maharaja Club and follows its recognition as the ‘Up and Coming Program of the Year’ at the Freddie Awards 2025, marking its rapid evolution into one of the region’s leading airline loyalty programmes.

In addition to winning 'Program of the Year', Maharaja Club was recognised as the runner-up in four key categories, ‘Best Promotion’, ‘Best Elite Program’, ‘Best Redemption Ability’ and ‘Best Customer Service’. The strong showing across multiple categories reflects the programme's continued commitment on delivering a rewarding and differentiated experience for its members.

Voted for by millions of travellers worldwide, the Freddie Awards recognise loyalty programmes that deliver outstanding member experience, value, customer service, redemption opportunities and innovation.

The Freddie Awards, introduced in 1988, are a highly respected global benchmark for travel loyalty programs, having grown in stature and importance to become the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry. Today, over 7 million voters worldwide cast the Freddie Award ballots annually, with the balloting available in 13 languages, including Hindi.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said: “This title is a strong validation of the direction we have taken with Maharaja Club. Our focus has been on creating meaningful value for members and building a programme that extends beyond travel into everyday experiences. We are grateful for the trust our members have placed in us, and we remain committed to making Maharaja Club even more rewarding in the years ahead.”

Redesigned in 2024, Maharaja Club moved away from the legacy model of miles-based collection of points to a fairer, more equitable spend-based approach. With a simplified structure, a host of customer-friendly features, renamed tiers, and an updated identity, the programme has added millions of new members over the two years.

Recently, Air India announced several enhancements to the Maharaja Club programme, including reduced redemption levels across at least 90% of the routes served by the airline, a new tier-based structure for rescheduling and cancellations of Award Flights, and reduced flight count thresholds for tier progression.

Air India has now also enabled its Maharaja Club members to earn and redeem Maharaja Points on flights operated by Air India Express, a value-carrier of the Air India group, serving 55 destinations across South, Southeast, and West Asia, with a fleet of more than 100 aircraft.

Additionally, Maharaja Club has significantly expanded its partner ecosystem to more than 100 partners across categories, including airlines, hospitality, retail, lifestyle and financial services, enabling members to earn Maharaja Points across a broad range of travel and everyday spends.

Maharaja Club members can earn and redeem points across 25 Star Alliance partner airlines, enjoy tier privileges worldwide, and access over 1,100 lounges across the globe.

About Air India Group

The Air India Group – comprising full-service global airline, Air India, and value carrier, Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India Group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries travellers to 60 domestic and 51 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India Group is in the midst of a five-year transformation programme, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India has placed orders for 600 new aircraft. In addition to taking new aircraft deliveries, Air India is progressively retrofitting all its legacy aircraft.

The Air India Group operates South Asia’s largest aviation training academy in Gurugram, India. The construction of a new flying school and a greenfield maintenance base is in progress.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.For more news on Air India, visit http://www.airindia.com/newsroom

Ranveer Singh Co-Founded ABD Maestro Brings Its Luxury & Premium Spirits portfolio To Odisha

*Celebrating modern luxury and craftsmanship, the debut introduces AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Indian Malt, YELLO Designer Whisky, and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka to Odisha

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers Limited (ABD), today announced its entry into the Odisha market with the launch of AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, YELLO Designer Whisky and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka in Bhubaneswar.

The launch marks a significant milestone in ABD Maestro’s strategic market expansion as the company strengthens its presence in high-potential markets. The move reflects the company’s vision of building a future-forward portfolio of culturally resonant premium spirits for evolving Indian consumers.

With superstar actor and entrepreneur Ranveer Singh as Co-Founder and Creative Partner, ABD Maestro brings a fresh perspective to modern luxury. The focus is to offer brands that are rich in craftsmanship, with and distinct and authentic narratives.

The ABD Maestro portfolio in Odisha brings together four distinct brands, each with a unique identity. AODH Irish Whiskey offers its smoothness and craft through a triple distillation process; WOODBURNS Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, is already winning the world’s most respected and recognised awards; YELLO Designer Whisky, is a bold cross-continental fusion of Scotch and Indian Malts created for modern Indian palates; and RANGEELA Contemporary Indian Vodka, celebrates our country’s vibrant spirit through a playful and expressive brand experience.

Announcing ABD Maestro’s Odisha debut at a launch event held in Bhubaneswar, Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said: “Odisha always understood craftmanship and has shared with the world its Patta Chitra, applique from Pipli, silver filigree, Kotpad or Ikat among many others. The consumer in Odisha has the finesse to understand unique experiences. In our world of spirits and experiences, Odisha is a priority. We’ve designed our portfolio to blend world-class craftsmanship with modern luxury. Whether it’s the smooth refinement of AODH or the playful energy of RANGEELA, the exploration of WOODBURNS or the boldness of YELLO, our goal is to elevate everyday celebrations and match evolving tastes.”

With its Odisha debut, ABD Maestro continues to build one of India’s most distinctive premium spirits portfolios, while expanding the reach of its nationally recognised brands across cities within the Odisha market.

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a super-premium and luxury spirits company, and a subsidiary of Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited, the largest domestic Spirits company in India, in terms of annual sales volumes. Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh is a co-founder and creative partner at ABD Maestro.

The ABD Maestro portfolio include The Collective Limited Edition, Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Aodh Irish Whiskey, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Yello Designer Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.

ULCCS Cooperative Development Model Showcased At United Nations Symposium In New York

* Representatives from multiple countries express interest in studying and adapting the ULCCS model for sustainable economic development and employment generation

Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS), one of the world's leading cooperative enterprises, showcased its community-led development model at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. ULCCS participated as a panellist at the International Symposium on Cooperative Financial Institutions held on May 28-29, 2026. The symposium was jointly organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), the International Cooperative Banking Association (ICBA), and the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). Held under the theme "Fuelling Inclusive and Equitable Growth," the event brought together policymakers, cooperative leaders, financial institutions, and development experts from across the world.

Representing ULCCS, Mr. Kishor Kumar T K, Chief Project Coordinator of ULCCS and Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment (ICAE) under the International Cooperative Alliance Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP), shared the organization's journey of transforming a labour cooperative into a diversified development institution. During his address, he highlighted how ULCCS has successfully responded to social, economic, and global transformations by converting challenges into opportunities for employment generation and inclusive growth. He explained how the organization has expanded beyond infrastructure into sectors such as Information Technology, tourism, arts and crafts, skill development, and advanced technology adoption, while remaining firmly rooted in cooperative values.

Showcasing initiatives such as UL CyberPark, Kerala Arts & Crafts Village, Sargaalaya Arts & Crafts Village, and the Indian Institute of Infrastructure and Construction, Mr. Kishor Kumar highlighted how these projects have created sustainable livelihood opportunities for youth, artisans, skilled workers, and rural communities. He also emphasized the importance of inter-cooperation, decentralized development, community ownership, and cooperative consortium financing in strengthening regional economies.

Mr. Kishor Kumar T K, Chief Project Coordinator of ULCCS "ULCCS has always believed that development becomes truly sustainable when communities are at the centre of the process. Our journey demonstrates how cooperative values, combined with innovation and partnerships, can foster lasting economic opportunities while promoting social inclusion. The interest shown by international delegates reaffirms the relevance of the cooperative model in addressing today's development challenges.” He also shared the organization's journey of transforming a labour cooperative into a diversified development institution. During his address, he highlighted how ULCCS has successfully responded to social, economic, and global transformations by converting challenges into opportunities for employment generation and inclusive growth..

The discussion generated considerable interest among delegates from various countries, with several expressing interest in studying and adapting elements of the ULCCS model within their own regional contexts. ULCCS officials stated that the opportunity to present at the United Nations further reinforces the role of cooperatives as powerful instruments for inclusive economic development, employment generation and community empowerment. They added that as governments and institutions worldwide seek sustainable and people-centric development solutions, the ULCCS experience offers a practical example of how cooperative enterprises can drive economic progress while ensuring social equity and community participation.

About ULCCS:

The century-old Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS) is Asia's largest labour co-operative and the third largest co-operative in the Industries and Utilities segment. As a Total Solution Provider (TSP) for infrastructure development and management projects, ULCCS has completed over 7500 projects in its illustrious history. While ULCCS has a strong foothold in the construction sector, having undertaken prestigious projects for Kerala State government departments such as Finance, Co-operation, Local Self Government, Labour, Information Technology, Tourism, and Public Works Department (PWD), the organization has also diversified its presence across multiple domains including Information Technology, IT & ITeS, Tourism & Craft, Material Testing, Education & Skilling, Agriculture, Residential. This diverse expertise has allowed ULCCS to win international accolades and position itself as a leader in delivering comprehensive, multi-sectoral solutions for infrastructure development. In 2018, the ULCCS Foundation, in collaboration with Atmavidya Sangham, established Madithattu, a geriatric and day care initiative in Vatakara, Kerala.For more details, visit https://ulccsltd.com/home

Ascendion Named An AI Leader By ISG For Integrated Platform And Application Services

* Ascendion has been named a Leader in the Integrated Platform and Application Services quadrant of the ISG Provider Lens® Digital Engineering Services 2026 report.

* The recognition reflects Ascendion’s leadership in unlocking value from agentic AI in enterprise production.

Ascendion, an AI-native software engineering company, has been named a Leader in the Integrated Platform and Application Services quadrant of the ISG Provider Lens® Digital Engineering Services 2026 report.

ISG's report captures an industry at a turning point. Enterprises are moving beyond fragmented modernization efforts, pilots with limited impact, and purely technical change versus changing how work gets done. Now, leaders are seeking operating model transformation to reduce technical debt, accelerate delivery, drive growth, and move from pilot to production without breaking. That is exactly where Ascendion succeeds.

“This is what’s possible when AI moves from an experiment to being responsible for outcomes,” said Karthik Krishnamurthy, Chief Executive Officer, Ascendion. “Using our Engineering to the Power of AI method, AI agents and our engineers work together at enterprise scale to deliver the impact enterprise leaders need. Companies that will lead the next decade will operationalize agentic AI securely and at scale. We’ve designed the company to ensure that clients thrive in the era of AI operating models. We’re honored that ISG’s recognition reflects the outcomes our clients are seeing.”

Ascendion is deploying AI solutions to deliver production outcomes to enterprises globally.

For a digital-first banking pioneer, Ascendion reverse-engineered 900,000+ lines of 1980s code in three weeks using AAVA, Ascendion’s agentic AI platform, finishing a modernization program in half the time and a third of the cost of traditional methods.

For a 200-year-old UK bank, Ascendion mapped the architecture in weeks, protected 5.2 million customers, and delivered 50–75% velocity gains on the platform rebuild.

For a U.S. healthcare payer, 650+ AAVA agents went into a regulated environment with zero downtime, giving 39 million Americans across all 50 states better access to care, lifting CSAT 25%, and cutting support volume 30%.

In one of the largest enterprise agentic AI implementations, Ascendion deployed 4,000+ agents across 2,500+ workflows for a Fortune 100 technology company, freeing thousands of engineers to focus on innovation, accelerating time-to-market by 40%, and unlocking $500M+ in projected savings.

AAVA and the Engineering to the Power of AI method are being put to work every day across banking, healthcare, retail, and technology sectors. ISG highlighted three Ascendion strengths in particular: accelerating legacy modernization through AI-led engineering, operationalizing the SDLC through its AAVA platform, and applying QualityAI in regulated environments where reliability and governance are critical.

“Ascendion differentiates through its agentic AI-led engineering approach, combining rapid product innovation with platform-driven modernization. Its AAVA accelerator and integrated AI capabilities enable faster design, prototyping and legacy transformation, delivering measurable productivity gains and positioning the firm as a high-velocity, experience-led digital engineering enabler” said Shirish Kulkarni, Senior Lead Analyst, ISG

About Ascendion

Ascendion is the AI-native disruptor reinventing how global enterprises build software for impact. Its engineering teams, powered by AAVA™, the company's proprietary agentic AI platform, deliver measurable business outcomes: accelerating growth, unlocking capital, and de-risking transformation. With 11,000+ engineering professionals and 10,000+ AI agents working across 12 countries, Ascendion delivers the promise of AI to more than a third of the Fortune 500. Learn more at https://www.ascendion.com.

Engineering to the Power of AI™, AAVA™, EngineeringAI, Engineering to Elevate Life™, Enterprise PlatformsAI, Data & InsightsAI, ExperienceAI, GCCAI, OperationsAI, Platform EngineeringAI, ProductAI, and Quality EngineeringAI are trademarks or service marks of Ascendion®. AAVA™ is pending registration. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

Tata Motors Launches The All-New Intra V40; Strengthens Alternate Fuel Leadership In Small Commercial Vehicles & Pickups

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, today accelerated its push in alternate fuel mobility with the launch of the all-new Intra V40, reinforcing its leadership in the fast-growing small commercial vehicle and pickup segment. Designed for high-load, high-efficiency operations, the Intra V40 combines CNG + petrol bi-fuel technology with a best-in-class payload of 1,525 kg and a 2,960mm (9.7ft) long load body, enabling operators to maximise earnings while ensuring uninterrupted operations across varied routes.

Powered by a 1.2-litre engine delivering 58 bhp of max power and 106 Nm of max torque, the Intra V40 is engineered to deliver strong performance with superior fuel efficiency for demanding last-mile applications. Its 110-litre CNG tank supports extended range, while the bi-fuel architecture ensures flexibility across fuel types and uninterrupted operations. Built on Tata Motors’ proven platform, it features a modern walk-through cabin, car-like driving dynamics, and front disc brakes for enhanced safety, control, and driver comfort over long operating hours. The vehicle is underpinned by a hydroformed chassis, delivering superior strength, stability, and refinement to ensure consistent, reliable performance in real-world conditions.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Pinaki Haldar, Vice President & Business Head – SCVPU, Tata Motors Ltd., said, “The shift towards alternate fuels in last-mile cargo transport is accelerating, driven by the need for lower operating costs and greater flexibility. Tata Motors is at the forefront of this transition, with a clear focus on building the strongest and most comprehensive alternate fuel portfolio in the small CV and pickup segment. With the all-new Intra V40, we further strengthen our bi-fuel range and consolidate our leadership in alternate fuel mobility, while our expanding electric portfolio supports a calibrated transition towards greener last-mile transportation.”

With this launch, Tata Motors offers India's widest bi-fuel portfolio: Ace Pro Bi-fuel, Ace CNG 2.0, Intra V20 Gold, and the all-new Intra V40, spanning the full range of payload segments. Complemented by a rapidly expanding electric range — Ace Pro EV, Ace EV 1000, and Intra EV Pickup, this gives customers unmatched choice across fuel types, payload needs, and operating conditions, positioning Tata Motors as the most comprehensive provider of alternate fuel solutions in the segment.

The Intra V40 is backed by Tata Motors’ robust ownership ecosystem, including Sampoorna Seva 2.0 for end-to-end lifecycle support and Fleet Edge telematics for real-time insights, predictive maintenance, and uptime optimisation — enabling operators to maximise productivity and returns.

About Tata Motors Ltd (Formerly TML Commercial Vehicles Ltd):
Part of the USD 180 billion Tata Group, Tata Motors Ltd., (BSE: Scrip code 544569; NSE: Scrip code TMCV) is India’s largest and a globally renowned manufacturer of utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks, and buses. With over eight decades of leadership in commercial mobility, the company is known for its innovation, reliability, and performance. Its advanced powertrains, connected technologies, and intelligent fleet solutions support a wide range of applications—from last-mile delivery to public transport while seamlessly driving the wheels of the nation’s economy. Guided by its brand promise Better Always, Tata Motors delivers future-ready solutions that enhance customer experience and drive sustainable growth. The company operates in India and South Korea, with a global presence across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and SAARC countries.

As per the Composite Scheme of Arrangement sanctioned by the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench—amongst Tata Motors Limited, TML Commercial Vehicles Limited (the Company) and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited—the Company’s name was changed to Tata Motors Limited from TML Commercial Vehicles Limited (effective 29 October 2025), and its equity shares are listed on the BSE Ltd and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

Uber Invests In ONDC, Deepens Commitment With India's Digital Public Infrastructure

● First strategic investments by a global technology company in ONDC

● Strengthens collaboration to expand multimodal access from metro and bus ticketing to logistics

Uber, one of India’s leading ridesharing apps, today announced a strategic investment in the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) deepening its commitment to India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and its vision of building mobility and logistics solutions at population scale through open, interoperable networks.

The investment marks one of the earliest strategic investments by a global technology company in ONDC and underscores Uber’s growing confidence in India’s pioneering approach to digital infrastructure. The investment builds on Uber’s earlier integration with ONDC and signals a deeper alignment to unlock new avenues for how mobility and logistics are discovered, accessed, and delivered. As part of this investment, Uber will work closely with ONDC to expand access to multimodal transportation, including public transit integrations, while also strengthening its logistics capabilities to better serve businesses and independent earners on the network.

As India rapidly builds population-scale digital networks, Uber’s investment in ONDC reflects a long-term commitment to supporting open, inclusive platforms that empower consumers, drivers, and businesses alike.

Commenting on the investment, Prabhjeet Singh, President, Uber India and South Asia, said, "India has been at the forefront of building Digital Public Infrastructure that is inclusive, interoperable, and transformative at scale. Our ongoing partnership with ONDC and now this investment puts us at the heart of that innovation journey. By investing in this network, we're helping more people move, more businesses grow, and more earners thrive harnessing the power of the ONDC network.”

Adil Zainulbhai, Independent Director, ONDC, said, "ONDC is a key pillar of India’s efforts to democratize digital commerce and create a level playing field for businesses of all sizes. Uber’s investment is a strong endorsement of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure and its potential to drive innovation, efficiency, and inclusive growth."

Metro ticketing on Uber is live across 5 cities. More than 10 million metro rides have already been booked through the Uber app via ONDC network across India, underlining the growing popularity of integrated public transit solutions. Built through ONDC’s interoperable network, these integrations are part of Uber’s broader effort to bring public transport and last-mile mobility together in one seamless experience.

As India continues to build one of the world's most ambitious digital infrastructure ecosystems, Uber's investment in ONDC reflects its long-term bet on open networks as the foundation for the next generation of mobility and logistics services - ones that work for consumers, earners, and businesses across every corner of the country.

About Uber

Uber came to India in 2013 with a simple promise: press a button, get a ride. Over a decade later, Uber is live in more than 125 cities and has become #IndiaKiRide - helping millions move the way they need to, every day. From Bikes and Autos to Cars, Metros, and even Buses, Uber brings together India’s diverse mobility options on a single app. Whether it’s a short trip across town or a journey between cities, with a single swipe Uber makes everyday mobility seamless for millions - while enabling more than 2 million Indians to earn a sustainable income behind the wheel. As we continue to reimagine how the world moves for the better, our ambition keeps expanding, and our commitment remains unwavering: to keep India moving forward.

JW Marriott Appoints Aishwarya Rai Bachchan As New Global Brand Ambassador

* Advancing The Brand’s Well-Being Philosophy Through India’s Cultural Lens

* Elevating the brand’s global “Stay in the Moment” platform through one of India’s most respected and internationally acclaimed voices

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 brands, today announces its collaboration with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as a Global Brand Ambassador. Through this, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will elevate and bring renewed expression to the brand’s global “Stay in the Moment” platform, bringing a thoughtful, globally resonant perspective that deepens its relevance across key international markets.

The appointment signals both continuity and evolution. “Stay in the Moment” remains central to brand ethos – rooted in the legacy of J. Willard Marriott and a belief in holistic well-being, where guests are present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit. As India continues to play an increasingly important role in global travel, the collaboration reflects a thoughtful recognition of its growing influence and connection to the brand’s global community.

JW Marriott currently operates more than 130 properties worldwide, with India representing one of its most dynamic portfolios and development pipelines. Indian travelers are the fastest-growing outbound luxury segments globally, while demand for premier domestic travel is steadily rising – driven by increased affluence, multigenerational journeys, and a growing appreciation for meaningful, experience-led stays. Within this context, the concept of staying present resonates deeply, reflecting a guest who seeks both refinement and a sense of purpose in how they travel.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s appointment as a Global Brand Ambassador reflects this shared alignment. For over two decades, she has represented India on the global stage with distinction across cinema, fashion, philanthropy and international cultural platforms. Her career is defined not only by enduring visibility, but by credibility, discernment, and a rare sense of gravitas that reflects a life grounded in balance, built on integrity, resilience, unwavering authenticity, and a strong sense of purpose.

In the way, she navigates a global stage while remaining anchored in what matters most, she reflects a way of living that is both intentional and graceful. This sense of composure and clarity resonates with the brand’s philosophy of intentional luxury.

“Aishwarya’s global stature, warmth, and authenticity make her a natural embodiment of JW Marriott and an ideal partner for the brand,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “She brings a thoughtful, grounded presence that reflects the way our guests seek to travel – with intention and a sense of connection. As we continue to expand in India and across markets shaped by Indian travelers, this collaboration reinforces our commitment to celebrating presence as the ultimate in luxury experiences.”

As a Global Brand Ambassador, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be featured across international brand campaigns and storytelling spanning film, print, and digital platforms, while also engaging in thoughtfully curated brand experiences in India and select global markets. The creative expression centers on moments of reflection, connection, and quiet sophistication within JW Marriott spaces – bringing to life environments intentionally designed to foster clarity, presence, and a sense of calm.

For Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the association reflects a shared sensibility with the brand’s approach to holistic well-being and meaningful connections. “Travel has always been an important part of my life, both personally and professionally,” she said. “The most meaningful experiences are often the quietest ones, when you are fully aware of where you are and who you are with. JW Marriott’s philosophy of being present and in the moment speaks to that awareness. I am honored to represent a brand that values presence and purpose in equal measure.”

India remains a strategic priority for Marriott International, with a strong and expanding footprint across gateway cities and resort destinations. Through this JW Marriott collaboration with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the brand continues to reinforce its long-term commitment to the region and its intention to engage a new generation of luxury travelers through relevance, credibility, and emotional resonance. In aligning with one of India’s most respected global figures, JW Marriott affirms a vision of luxury defined by depth, composure, and a meaningful sense of presence. The “Stay in the Moment” platform continues to evolve globally, strengthened by a partnership that reflects India’s growing influence on the global stage.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 130 JW Marriott hotels in 41 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Bhartiya Mall Of Bengaluru Strengthens Its Experiential Retail Portfolio With Sorele, Kameleo And Frido

Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru continues to strengthen its position as one of North Bengaluru’s premier lifestyle and experiential retail destinations with the addition of emerging D2C and innovation-driven brands Sorele, Kameleo, and Frido.

The latest additions reflect a larger shift in consumer preferences, as shoppers increasingly seek brands that combine individuality, comfort, wellness, and experience-driven retail. As digitally native brands continue expanding into offline spaces, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru is evolving its retail mix to offer immersive and community-driven shopping experiences tailored to Bengaluru’s young, aspirational, and fast-growing consumer base.

Among the newest additions is Sorele, a contemporary fashion jewellery brand known for its minimalist yet modern and versatile collections, crafted with 18K gold plating and lab-grown Moissanite diamonds. Catering to Gen Z, working professionals, and urban families, the brand offers conscious luxury designed to transition seamlessly from workwear to occasion wear.

Enhancing the mall’s fashion portfolio is Kameleo, a customised fashion footwear brand focused on creativity and self-expression. Kameleo allows shoppers to personalise footwear by mixing and matching soles and straps across collections such as Candy, Poppi, and Twin, combining vibrant aesthetics with lightweight, all-day comfort for younger consumers seeking personalised fashion experiences.

The launch of Sorele and Kameleo at Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru also marks the brands’ first-ever store within a mall format, reflecting a broader shift from high-street retail to destination-led experiential spaces.

Further strengthening the mall’s lifestyle and wellness offerings, Frido brings its ergonomics and comfort-led product range focused on posture support, mobility, and everyday wellness. As health-conscious living and functional lifestyle products gain traction among urban consumers, brands like Frido offering strongly aligns with the needs of today’s consumers, particularly young tech professionals within the Bhartiya Center of Information Technology ( a tech park within the Bhartiya City ecosystem), alongside families and wellness-conscious shoppers seeking comfort-driven innovations in their daily lives.

The addition of brands such as Sorele, Kameleo, and Frido highlights the growing momentum of digitally native and experiential brands expanding beyond online-first models to build stronger consumer engagement through physical retail environments. Increasingly, consumers want to physically experience and interact with the D2C brands they discover online, and Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru is enabling that transition by bringing these brands closer to customers within an integrated lifestyle destination.

As North Bengaluru rapidly evolves into one of the city’s most dynamic residential and commercial growth corridors, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru continues to build a future-ready retail ecosystem that seamlessly integrates fashion, lifestyle, wellness, dining, and entertainment experiences under one destination. With over 5,000 families moving into North Bengaluru every month, the region is fast emerging as one of Bengaluru’s most high-growth real estate markets.

“At Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru, we are seeing a strong shift in how digitally native brands approach offline retail. Today’s consumers discover brands online, but they increasingly want immersive physical experiences before making purchase decisions. Brands like Sorele and Kameleo choosing Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru for their first mall stores reflects the strength of our ecosystem and the kind of consumer community we cater to, from young residents and working professionals to families and aspirational shoppers across North Bengaluru. With additions like Frido, we are also strengthening categories centred around wellness, comfort, and lifestyle innovation, which are becoming increasingly relevant for modern urban consumers,” said Jermina Menon, Brand & Marketing Strategist, Bhartiya Urban.

With an expanding mix of fashion, lifestyle, wellness, dining, and entertainment offerings, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru remains committed to delivering curated retail experiences aligned with the aspirations of Bengaluru’s next-generation consumers.

20% Of NPS Investors Are Under 30, With The Highest Equity Allocation At 61%

* FY 26 Data From Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management Limited

FY26 data from Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management Limited highlights a significant gap in India’s retirement savings journey. While India has a median age of just 28, only 20% of NPS subscribers are under 30, underscoring the untapped potential to drive early participation among young earners.

The bulk of NPS participation is concentrated among older investors, with the 30–60 age group accounting for 76% of all subscribers. By the time many Indians begin planning for retirement, they have already lost the biggest advantage long-term investing offers, time. In contrast, the under-30 segment, where even small and consistent contributions can compound meaningfully over decades, remains significantly underpenetrated.

The contribution numbers make this even clearer. The average subscriber under 30 contributes around ₹2,500 a month, while those between 55 and 60 invest nearly ₹18,000. Part of this gap reflects income levels, but it also reflects perspective.

Younger investors still have time on their side, allowing smaller, consistent contributions to compound over decades. Older investors, on the other hand, often contribute larger amounts because retirement is closer and the window to build a meaningful corpus is far narrower.

One bright spot in the Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management data stands out. Under 30 investors allocate 61% of their NPS corpus to equities, higher than any other age group. The risk appetite is there. What is missing is consistency.

Furthermore, women represent just 23% of NPS subscribers. Given that women on average outlive men and face greater financial vulnerability in retirement, this is a gap with real consequences, not just for individuals, but for household retirement security across the country.

The NPS infrastructure is accessible and low cost. The awareness, clearly, still has a long way to go. What makes NPS particularly powerful for younger investors is the combination of compounding and disciplined investing. Even small monthly contributions, when invested consistently over long periods, can compound significantly.

The lock-in structure of NPS also plays an important role by encouraging long-term financial discipline and preventing premature withdrawals driven by short-term market movements or lifestyle spending. Over decades, these seemingly modest contributions can help solve for a much larger purpose: financial independence in retirement.

India is sitting on a demographic dividend with an expiry date. The young Indians who start now, contribute consistently, and stay invested may not see the real benefits for decades, but that is exactly what makes starting early so important, because time is the biggest driver of long-term compounding and retirement security.

Samarth E-Mobility Unveils Avore Electric, An Electric Mobility Brand Built On Intelligence Beyond Motion

* A fully in-house engineered electric vehicle brand, designed to bring the intuition and reliability of a connected device to every Indian rider

Samarth E-Mobility Pvt. Ltd. today announced the launch of Avore Electric, its electric mobility brand. Marking the debut with a brand film, website and social media platforms, Avore Electric introduces a new approach to electric mobility centred on engineering excellence in intelligence—a philosophy rooted in developing every critical technology system in-house.

Built on the belief that intelligence should not be a feature added to a two-wheeler but the foundation upon which it is envisioned, Avore Electric has been conceived around a single guiding principle: start with intelligence, then build the motorcycle around it. The brand's tagline, ‘Intelligence Beyond Motion’ reflects this vision.

Over the past three years, Samarth E-Mobility's team of more than 100 engineers has developed over nine critical systems entirely in-house at its dedicated R&D facility in Ahmedabad. These include a patented Battery Management System (BMS), battery pack, motor, motor controller, power control module, DC-DC converter, onboard fast charger, display system and proprietary operating system. The company has also filed more than 110 intellectual properties to date. This vertically integrated approach is powered by AVORE Source, the company's proprietary technology stack and the AVR platform, its purpose-built two-wheeler architecture. Together, they provide complete control over vehicle performance, reliability, software integration and the overall rider experience.

Built From the Ground Up

At the heart of Avore Electric, is a fully integrated technology ecosystem engineered and developed in-house. Built on AVORE Source and the AVR architecture, the platform brings together every major vehicle subsystem under a unified engineering framework.

More than nine critical systems have been designed, developed internally, enabling seamless integration across hardware and software. This approach allows for more intuitive response, peak performance, faster diagnosis, reduced downtime and continuous product improvements through software-led updates—delivering an ownership experience that evolves over time. With more than 110 intellectual property filings, Avore Electric is establishing a strong technological foundation in a market where many manufacturers continue to remain hardware dependent.

Targeting the Underserved Middle

Avore Electric’s first range of electric motorcycles is aimed at riders in the 125cc–200cc motorcycle segment, one of India's largest and most significant commuter and lifestyle categories. The motorcycles are being developed for riders seeking a practical electric alternative without compromising on performance, reliability, or everyday usability. Built on the AVR platform and engineered for real-world Indian riding conditions, Avore Electric's product portfolio is designed to address the evolving expectations of today's two-wheeler customers.

The brand plans to enter the market through a focused strategy built around product-led storytelling, consumer education, full stack component build and a differentiated ownership experience that reflects the intelligence embedded across every layer of the motorcycle.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Priyank Rakholiya, Co-founder, Samarth E-Mobility, said "For three years, we asked ourselves a simple question, why does India's most widely used personal vehicle incorporate so little intelligence. We realised the answer wasn't a missing feature, it was a missing commitment. True intelligence cannot be assembled from off-the-shelf components; it must be engineered from the ground up. That's why we built every critical system in-house. Engineering excellence in intelligence is not a claim for us; it's a methodology that shapes every decision we make."

What’s Next

Samarth E-Mobility is preparing to introduce Avore Electric's first range of electric motorcycles in the Indian market. The launch of the brand, supported by its brand film, website and digital platforms, marks the beginning of a broader market-entry roadmap, with product announcements and campaign reveals planned in the coming months.

About Samarth E-Mobility

Samarth E-Mobility Pvt. Ltd. is a technology-first, innovation-led electric mobility company accelerating the adoption of electric two-wheelers through reliable, intuitive, intelligently engineered products. Guided by a Make in India philosophy, the company has spent three years developing a 100% indigenous technology stack at its R&D facility in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Its 150+ member team has engineered more than nine critical components in-house — including a patented BMS, battery pack, motor, motor controller, onboard fast charger and proprietary operating system — and filed over 110 intellectual properties. Samarth E-Mobility’s first product range under the Avore Electric brand targets the 125cc–200cc ICE alternative segment and is designed to align with India’s clean mobility and Atmanirbhar Bharat priorities.

MAATI – The Crafts School will Organise A Two-Day Showcase From June 5-6 In Bengaluru

Dates: 5–6 June 2026

Venue: Flat Roof Building, SABHA, Bengaluru

Some art forms don’t belong in museums. They belong in homes, in daily conversations, and in the hands of people who appreciate the story behind the object.

MAATI – The Crafts School, an initiative by Kadam India supported by the Tata Trusts, is bringing an immersive two-day showcase to Bengaluru. The exhibition celebrates the living traditions of hand-painted Madhubani art alongside contemporary Bihar craftsmanship. This curated exhibit is designed for textile connoisseurs, art and culture tastemakers, conscious textile retailers, architects, interior designers, collectors, and anyone drawn to authentic legacy artistry.

The heart of the showcase is four women artisans traveling from MAATI’s clusters in Madhubani and Darbhanga. This is a rare opportunity to meet the makers and engage directly with their creative processes and explore handcrafted textile collections that bridge generations of visual memory with contemporary living.

Beyond design, the exhibition carries a real-world urgency. MAATI works in regions of Bihar where recurring climate and environmental challenges threaten traditional ways of life year after year. By creating direct market access and nurturing independent creative enterprises, the initiative supports artisan communities in building long-term, climate-resilient livelihoods.

We invite you to experience the work, meet the artisans, and join the conversation around handmade futures.

Exhibition Details & RSVP:

Dates: 5–6 June 2026

Venue: Flat Roof Building, SABHA, Bengaluru

Inquiries & RSVPs: info@maaticraftschool.com OR Simran Girish (SGirish@webershandwick.com/ 98206 21734)

Instagram: @maatithecraftschool  

PhysicsWallah (PW) Celebrates The Strong Performance Of Students From Bengaluru In JEE Advanced 2026

Education company PhysicsWallah (PW) has celebrated the strong performance of its students in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2026. Anukriti Jain (AIR 4617) and Nayanashri A C (AIR 4596), amongst others, were some of the high-performing students of PhysicsWallah in Bengaluru.

According to the official press release issued by the organising Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), a total of 1,79,694 candidates appeared in both papers 1 and 2 in JEE Advanced 2026, out of which 56,880 candidates qualified.

Alakh Pandey, Founder and CEO of PhysicsWallah, said, "I want to congratulate every student who cleared the JEE Advanced 2026 examination through their hard work and determination. For those who did not get the results they hoped for today, please remember that this single exam does not define your capabilities or your future success. Education is a long journey, and this is just one step, so keep your chin up and stay resilient because many new opportunities lie ahead for you."

PhysicsWallah provides test preparation courses for various competitive examinations, including JEE and NEET, as well as school curriculum support, operating through online platforms, hybrid centres, and offline coaching institutes across India. The offline Vidyapeeth centres in the city offer students structured test preparation, regular academic evaluations, and doubt-resolution support.

About PhysicsWallah (PW)

PhysicsWallah Limited (PW), an education platform, was founded in 2020 by Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari. Headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, PW aims to facilitate education through online, offline, and hybrid platforms. Initially launched as a YouTube channel in 2014, PW now offers education to students through its native app, tech-enabled offline and hybrid centers, and YouTube channels. PW’s offerings span various educational segments, including test preparation, a skilling vertical, coaching for higher education, and facilitating education abroad, with programs available in multiple vernacular languages.

PhysicsWallah Limited was listed on the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) and BSE Limited (Bombay Stock Exchange) on November 18, 2025.

Sony Introduces Its True RGB TVs Powered By RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro™ With BRAVIA 7II Across India

* Sony debuts its first True RGB BRAVIA TV, featuring independently driven RGB LEDs, a new unique anti-glare and reflection screen and Google TV with Gemini for a truly immersive cinematic experience at home

Sony India today announced the launch of BRAVIA 7II, introducing True RGB technology to redefine home entertainment with richer colour, greater depth and more immersive viewing experiences. Pre-booking for select BRAVIA 7II models starts today. Bringing together Sony’s advanced display innovation and intelligent processing technologies, BRAVIA 7II delivers cinema-grade picture quality designed to transform everyday viewing into an extraordinary entertainment experience.

At the heart of BRAVIA 7II is True RGB, powered by RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro™, Sony’s proprietary backlight control technology that independently controls red, green and blue light to achieve exceptional colour precision, deeper contrast and remarkable realism. Combined with Cognitive Processor XR™, BRAVIA 7II reproduces content the way humans naturally see and hear-creating visuals with enhanced depth, vibrant colours and lifelike detail.

Key technologies powering the experience include:

· RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro™ – Sony’s advanced individual RGB backlight control technology delivers precise local dimming with deeper blacks, reduced blooming and stunning contrast.

· RGB Triluminos Max™ with Luminance Booster – Uniting QD-OLED-level colour richness with Mini LED brightness to achieve Sony’s richest colour volume and brighter brilliance.

· Smooth Color Gradation – Reveals every nuance across dark and bright scenes with ultra-fine tonal transitions and enhanced visual depth.

· X-Wide Angle Pro – Maintains consistent colour and contrast from wider viewing positions for an immersive cinematic experience from every seat in the room, available in select screen sizes.

Starting with a 55 (140 cm) model, the series extends across 65 (165 cm), 75 (190 cm) and 85 (215 cm) variants, and will further culminate in a stunning 98 (248 cm) model expected in June, bringing Sony’s vision of “Cinema is Coming Home” to more consumers across India.

Experience cinema-grade colour, highlighting true to life colour and depth with True RGB

Building on Sony’s legacy of innovation, the BRAVIA 7II introduces Sony’s first True RGB LED BRAVIA TV technology, using independently driven red, green and blue LEDs for precise colour reproduction in bright living room environments. Powered by RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro™, this advanced backlight control system drives each LED with high precision to improve brightness, reduce blooming, deliver deeper blacks and produce purer colour than conventional Mini LED displays.

With RGB Triluminos Max™, the television delivers Sony’s widest colour volume, reproducing a broader spectrum of colours with remarkable accuracy, while Smooth Colour Gradation enables seamless and ultra-fine tonal transitions across every scene. Powered by RGB Triluminos Max™ with Luminance Booster, it combines QD-OLED-like colour depth with the brightness of Mini LED technology to deliver Sony’s richest and most vibrant visual experience yet. On 65-inch and larger models, X-Wide Angle Pro maintains consistent colour and contrast from wider viewing positions, ensuring an optimal experience from every seat in the room.

Powered by Cognitive Processor XR™ for lifelike picture quality

At the core of the BRAVIA 7II is Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR™, which processes images in line with how humans naturally perceive sight and sound. This enables the TV to enhance depth, contrast, and clarity in real time, delivering more natural and immersive visuals.

XR Contrast Booster (20) intelligently balances light and dark elements for enhanced realism, while XR Clear Image reduces noise and upscales lower-resolution content to near 4K quality, while XR Motion Clarity™ analyses motion across multiple frames to ensure fast-moving scenes such as sports, movies, and gameplay remain smooth, bright, and blur-free

Experience cinematic HDR visuals and multidimensional surround sound powered by Dolby Vision and Atmos

With support for Dolby Vision®, HDR10, HLG and IMAX® Enhanced, BRAVIA 7II delivers a truly cinematic viewing experience with richer colours, deeper contrast, enhanced brightness and creator-intended picture quality. Studio Calibrated Modes for Netflix, Prime Video, and Sony Pictures Core automatically optimize picture settings to reflect the creator’s intent across different content environments.

On the audio front, Acoustic Multi-Audio+™ on 65 (165 cm) and above models positions sound precisely with on-screen action, creating a more immersive experience and sound positioning Tweeters further enhances the bass performance without compromising the slim design.

Voice Zoom 3 with AI Sound Separation technology ensures dialogue remains clear above background sound, while 3D Surround Upscaling transforms standard audio into an expansive 5.1.4 channel virtual surround experience. With Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X®, viewers can enjoy multidimensional, theatre-like sound with overhead effects that bring every scene to life.

Engineered for next-generation gaming with 4K 120Hz and intelligent gaming features

BRAVIA 7II supports 4K at 120fps via HDMI 2.1, delivering ultra-smooth and responsive gameplay. Features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) reduce input lag and eliminate screen tearing, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.

With Game Menu 2, users can quickly access and customise gaming settings, including crosshair, black equalizer, and motion blur reduction. Dolby Vision® Gaming enhances visual fidelity with richer colours and contrast, while PS Remote Play and dedicated optimizations for PlayStation 5, including Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode, make BRAVIA 7II an ideal choice for console gaming enthusiasts.

Discover effortless entertainment with Google TV and Gemini

Powered by Google TV, BRAVIA 7II offers access to over 400,000 movies and TV shows along with thousands of apps and games, delivering a personalized and intuitive content discovery experience. Supported by Hands-Free Voice Search and built-in Google Assistant, users can control the TV, search for content, or manage compatible smart home devices using voice commands. The TV also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Apple HomeKit, Google Cast, and works with Alexa-enabled devices for added convenience.

Additionally, Gemini for Google TV will be introduced via an over-the-air update, enabling more natural, AI-powered interactions and smarter content recommendations.

Experience studio-quality cinematic entertainment at home with Sony Pictures Core

BRAVIA 7II enables users to experience studio-quality entertainment at home with Sony Pictures Core, offering a curated library of blockbuster movies, including IMAX® Enhanced titles.

Powered by Pure Stream™, users can stream content at up to 80 Mbps, delivering picture quality comparable to 4K UHD Blu-ray. Customers will also receive an exclusive 10 movie credits with access to a curated selection of premium titles from Sony Pictures for 24 months.

Combining thoughtful design with enhanced accessibility and robust durability

Designed with Sony’s Harmonic Presence concept, the BRAVIA 7II blends seamlessly into modern living spaces with its Immersive Frame design and Mirage Stand for 55-inch to 85-inch models, while the 98-inch variant features a premium T-Shape Stand.

The television is built for durability with X-Protection PRO, offering resistance against lightning, power surges, dust, and humidity. With Eco Dashboard 2 and power-efficient RGB LED control by RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro™, users can monitor energy consumption and access power-saving recommendations.

The Inclusive Affordable Remote, developed in collaboration with people with disabilities, features optimized button design, tactile differentiation, and clear spacing for ease of use.

Price and Availability

The BRAVIA 7II will be available across all Sony retail stores (Sony Center and Sony Exclusive), the www.ShopatSC.com portal, leading electronic outlets and major e-commerce platforms in India starting 28th May 2026 onwards. Pre-booking for select BRAVIA 7II models also starts today, and customers can register their interest through this link.

About Sony India Pvt. Ltd.

Sony India Private Limited (Sony India), a private limited company with its ultimate holding company as Sony Group Corporation, Japan, has established itself as a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio, and professional solutions. The company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and maintains high standards in sales and services. Sony also prioritizes environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint throughout the lifecycle of its products and business activities to contribute to a healthier and enriched life for all of humanity and future generations.  

Shop, Save & Win Big: Joy Sale Unveils Up To 70% OFF, Assured Rewards & A Chance To Drive Home A Toyota Glanza

This June, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru invites shoppers to experience Joy Sale, a month-long retail celebration featuring exciting offers, rewards, and the chance to win big across fashion, footwear, beauty, electronics, home, accessories, dining, and entertainment.

Starting June 1, the sale transforms the mall into a vibrant lifestyle destination, bringing together leading brands and compelling deals designed to make every shopping trip more rewarding. Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 70% across categories, making it the ideal time to refresh wardrobes, upgrade gadgets, discover new beauty essentials, and explore a wide range of dining and entertainment experiences.

Adding to the excitement, customers who spend ₹10,000 or more during the duration of the sale will receive assured dining vouchers, enhancing the overall shopping experience with added value and rewards.

The highlight of Joy Sale is the grand prize , one lucky shopper will win a brand-new Toyota Glanza, making this much more than a seasonal sale and creating an opportunity for customers to shop, save, and celebrate.

With attractive offers, assured rewards, and the thrill of winning big, Joy Sale promises to deliver one of the season's most engaging retail experiences, reinforcing Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru's position as a leading destination.

Event Details: Joy Sale

Where: Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru

When: 1st June Onwards

Time: All Day

Oakley Unveils Players Collection Campaign Featuring Global Sports Icons Kylian Mbappe And Jaylen Brown

There was a time when the only thing a player wore that mattered was their uniform. That time is over. The game now begins before the spotlight, before the noise, there is a moment where everything locks in: the stage before the stage.

With latest chapter of the Players Collection, co-created with athletes shaping sports culture today, Oakley introduces signature eyewear from two athletes, each with their own co-created piece.

The Oakley Players Collection moves forward with new signature series from Team Oakley Athletes Jaylen Brown and Kylian Mbappé, icons who don’t just play the game, but shape the culture around sport by setting the tone, rewriting narratives, and building communities.

Jaylen Brown’s eyewear collection introduces an exclusive cocoa brown palette creating a distinct and recognizable identity, with Brown’s personal logo embedded across key pieces.

Part of the Oakley Highland Jaylen Brown Signature Series features Prizm™ Ruby Lenses, engineered to provide excellent coverage, offering superior protection from the sun. Inspired by Jaylen Brown’s off-field looks, this model features form-fitting lenses on a lightweight thermoplastic O-Matter ™ frame built to withstand from shifting or deforming over time
For me, everything is connected: performance, creativity, identity,” says Brown. “It’s how you prepare, how you think, how you show up.”

Next up in the Players Collection family is Kylian Mbappé’s signature eyewear, shaped by the mindset that propelled his rise, fearless and unapologetic. The Kylian Mbappé Signature Series Permian features a bold, deep-set lens construction, finished with Prizm™ Road Lenses. The frame is detailed with Mbappé’s logo embedded on the lens, while the coordinates of Bondy are etched along the temple, a subtle reference to his origins and journey. The result is a statement piece designed to express individuality with intent.

“Style is a signature. These glasses are more than an accessory - they carry my roots, reflect my journey, and define how I move forward” says Mbappé. “It starts before kick off: the way you arrive, the energy you bring, the presence you carry”.

Availability: the Players Collection is now available at leading optical stores, Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters and major e-retail platforms such as Amazon, Myntra, AJIO, Tata Cliq Luxury.

Pricing: starting at INR 11,690.

About Oakley, Inc.

Founded in 1975 in Foothill Ranch, Southern California, Oakley has built a global legacy in sport performance and culture. With over 900 patents and counting, Oakley is fueled by a legacy of delivering the unexpected, led by a collective of visionaries, pioneers, and mad scientists who elevate physics to an art form to push the boundaries of human potential. This relentless pursuit of innovation beyond reason has made Oakley one of the most iconic and inimitable brands in sport, trusted by world-class athletes globally who rely on the brand to perform at the highest level. Oakley is known for its High-Definition Optics and Prizm™ technology, offering optical clarity, precision, impact resistance, and UV protection in its range of eyewear, from sunglasses and prescription eyewear to premium goggles. The brand’s design philosophy extends to apparel, footwear, and accessories that deliver technical excellence and bold aesthetics. Proudly part of EssilorLuxottica, Oakley continues to design for the future and deliver to the present. Additional information is available at oakley.com. For more information on Oakley’s collection and Team Oakley, please visit: Oakley.com.  

SIA-India And SGAC Launch GEO-Niti, India’s First National Space Policy Ideathon

* A first-of-its-kind platform connecting Earth Observation, climate intelligence, and public policy to build India’s future space innovation talent pipeline.

As India accelerates its ambitions in space, climate resilience, and digital governance, a new platform is rising to match that momentum with talent. The GEO Niti Ideathon, jointly organised by the Space Industry Association of India (SIA-India) and the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), will make its debut as a landmark side event at the 5th Indian Space Congress (ISC) 2026, to be held in New Delhi from 15–17 June 2026.

Hosted as a partnered event at India Space Congress 2026, one of India's leading gatherings of policymakers, industry leaders, startups, academia, investors, and global space stakeholders, GEO-Niti will provide participants with a unique opportunity to showcase their ideas on a premier national and international platform and engage directly with leaders shaping the future of the space ecosystem.

Positioned as India’s first national Space Policy Ideathon, GEO Niti is not just a contest, it is a deliberate, structured effort to build a future-ready policy and innovation talent pipeline for the country.

Why Now, Why This?

India is entering a defining decade. Earth Observation satellites, digital public infrastructure, geospatial intelligence, and climate analytics are no longer niche technologies, they are fast becoming the backbone of how India plans cities, manages farmlands, responds to disasters, and governs its coastlines.

Yet a critical gap persists: the bridge between data and decision-making. Powerful satellite datasets go underutilised in policy corridors. Young professionals with the technical skills rarely get a structured pathway to engage with governance. GEO Niti is designed to close that gap.

“India has the data, the platforms, and the ambition,” said Mr. Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India. “GEO-Niti is about unlocking the potential of India’s young talent and empowering them to translate space-based insights into meaningful policy action. Through SIA-India’s flagship platform, India Space Congress, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their ideas on an international stage and engage with leaders shaping the future of the global space ecosystem.”

What is GEO Niti?

GEO Niti, meaning Earth Policy challenges student and early-career teams (ages 18–35) to develop integrated, implementation-ready policy proposals using Indian Earth Observation platforms including Bhuvan, MOSDAC, VEDAS, and NRSC products, alongside global datasets.

Participants are required to develop integrated policy proposals that combine governance mechanisms with practical implementation strategies across four national challenge themes:

* Air Pollution, Climate Change & Public Health

* Agriculture, Climate Risk & Rural Livelihoods

* Coastal Resilience & Blue Economy

* Space-Enabled Urban & Transport Infrastructure

Competition Format

The programme combines expert masterclasses, proposal submissions, mentorship, jury evaluations, and on-site presentations at India Space Congress 2026, culminating in a public finale and awards ceremony. Participants will be evaluated by an expert jury comprising leading practitioners from India's space, geospatial, and policy communities, ensuring that solutions are assessed not only for innovation but also for their practical relevance, feasibility, and implementation potential. 

Building a Talent Pipeline for India’s Space Age

GEO Niti is more than a competition. It is a platform for national capacity building at the crossroads of space technology, climate intelligence, and public policy. By encouraging participants to develop practical, implementation-oriented solutions to real-world challenges, the Ideathon seeks to cultivate a new generation of innovators, policymakers, and problem-solvers equipped to leverage space technologies for societal impact.

The initiative is designed to produce not just winners, but a cohort of young professionals who are fluent in both satellite data and governance, ready to contribute to India's space, climate, and development priorities in the years ahead.