Vande Bharat Sleeper Train From Bengaluru To Mumbai From October

Indian Railways has approved a new overnight Vande Bharat Sleeper service connecting Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) with Bengaluru’s KSR station, offering a faster and more premium travel option between the country’s financial and tech hubs.

The decision, confirmed in an April 5 letter from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan, paves the way for a journey time of approximately 16-17 hours, with the train expected to pass through major cities in Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Here’s a complete breakdown of what this new service means for travellers.

Overview

The Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper is expected to be India’s second Vande Bharat sleeper service, designed specifically for long-distance overnight journeys. It aims to significantly cut travel time while offering modern, high-comfort travel.

Mumbai – Bangalore Vande Bharat Train: Travel Time

Currently, Uday Express, the primary rail link between the two cities, takes about 22 hours to complete the journey. Additionally, the bus journey takes about 16 hours. The proposed Vande Bharat is set to cover the distance in about 17 hours.

Some reports even suggest the journey could be completed in as little as 15 hours, depending on final scheduling and stops.

This puts rail travel much closer to bus travel times, while offering far superior comfort.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Features

The Vande Bharat Sleeper is designed for overnight comfort and modern travel:

Fully air-conditioned sleeper coaches
Ergonomic berths for better sleep
Automatic doors and vestibules
Advanced suspension for smoother rides
Modern toilets and onboard amenities

Bengaluru – Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Current Status

Approved by Indian Railways

Likely to operate with dedicated sleeper rakes from both cities

Final timetable, stops, and launch date yet to be officially announced

Operational details:

Unlike the existing Vande Bharat Express trains that operate with chair car seating, the sleeper version will feature dedicated berths designed for overnight journeys, with a strong emphasis on comfort, safety, and modern design.

Passengers can expect upgraded interiors, more ergonomic sleeping arrangements, and enhanced onboard facilities compared to traditional sleeper trains.

The Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper is part of Indian Railways’ broader push to modernise long-distance travel. With more sleeper variants planned, travellers across the country are likely to benefit from faster, more comfortable overnight train options in the near future.

600+ Fitness Enthusiasts Complete Kauvery BEATS Circuit As Hospital Takes Heart-Health Campaign Beyond The Marathon Format

* Continuing the support for the Sankalpa 2.0 initiative, the new functional-fitness race, curated for active health seekers, combines performance with cardiovascular-risk awareness

More than 600 gym-goers, runners, cyclists and functional-fitness enthusiasts completed the inaugural Kauvery BEATS Circuit at Sports Garden, Embassy TechVillage, Bellandur, on Friday morning, as Kauvery Hospitals, Bengaluru expanded its annual heart-health campaign beyond the familiar marathon and walkathon format.

Curated specifically for people who already exercise regularly, the Circuit combined six 200-metre runs with six functional-fitness stations: Farmers Carry, Goblet Squats, Walking Lunges, Push Press, Front Carry and Dumbbell Snatch. This format is the first hospital-led functional-fitness event in India designed specifically for active health seekers, creating a new engagement model for preventive heart health beyond conventional mass-participation runs.

Before entering the Circuit, participants underwent a pre-participation physical fitness assessment. Cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and medical teams from Kauvery Hospitals supervised the event, with emergency-response preparedness in place throughout. The race design drew from large-format international functional-fitness events, with structured stations, prescribed loads and controlled participation.

The event was attended by Sri Shankar Mahadev Bidari, IPS (Retd.), former Director General and Inspector General of Police, Karnataka. “Fitness is built through discipline and consistency, but responsible fitness also means knowing one’s limits and paying attention to health. It was encouraging to see hundreds of people take on a demanding challenge while also engaging with the larger message of prevention,” said Sri Bidari.

Looking fit does not reveal every heart risk

The Circuit was built around a question increasingly relevant to Bengaluru’s growing fitness community: does being able to train hard necessarily mean the heart is free of risk?

Dr Manjunath Pandit, Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, Kauvery Hospitals, Marathahalli, said regular exercise remains one of the most important contributors to cardiovascular health, but physical performance cannot reveal every underlying risk factor. Dr Pandit’s clinical practice includes complex coronary interventions, structural heart disease and prevention of sudden cardiac death.

“A person may train regularly, look fit and perform well, yet still have hypertension, abnormal cholesterol, diabetes, a strong family history or an underlying cardiac condition. The message is certainly not to exercise less. It is to exercise intelligently, know your numbers and understand your own cardiovascular risk,” said Dr Pandit.

The Circuit formed the second leg of Kauvery BEATS 2026 Edition 6, following the September 27 Run, Walk and Cycle event in Electronic City that brought together more than 6,000 people.

Dr S. Vijayabaskaran, Executive Director, Kauvery Hospitals, Bangalore, said the two formats were intentionally created for different audiences.

“BEATS began six years ago as a community heart-health initiative. The Run, Walk and Cycle format makes movement accessible to everyone. With BEATS Circuit, we wanted to engage people who already consider fitness part of their lifestyle and take the conversation further. For them, the issue is not simply becoming active but understanding that fitness and cardiovascular risk are not always the same thing. We believe this opens a new direction for healthcare-led preventive engagement.”

Fitness with a larger purpose

Kauvery BEATS 2026 also supported Sankalpa 2.0, Kauvery Hospitals’ initiative to enable complex surgical care for eligible children from economically disadvantaged families in Karnataka.

The programme aims to support 25 children requiring surgery for congenital heart conditions and 25 children requiring complex spine surgery. Participants and supporters at the Circuit were invited to make voluntary contributions towards the initiative. The hospital did not disclose the amount raised.

With the completion of the Circuit, Kauvery BEATS 2026 brought together two distinct approaches to one idea: encouraging Bengaluru to stay active, while reinforcing that preventive heart health goes beyond outward fitness alone.

About Kauvery Hospitals

Kauvery Hospitals Bengaluru delivers tertiary care through its hospitals at Electronic City and Marathahalli. Its six Centres of Excellence are supported by critical care, advanced diagnostics, multi-organ transplantation, robotic and minimally invasive surgery, and robotic joint replacement. The Bengaluru region is part of the Kauvery Hospitals network, founded in 1999 with a mission to make great healthcare affordable.

Beyond clinical care, Kauvery Hospitals undertakes community-health initiatives focused on prevention, awareness and improving access to specialised treatment. 

East Point College Of Engineering & Technology Celebrates VTU Gold Medal Achievement

East Point College of Engineering & Technology (EPCET) has added another glorious chapter to its legacy of academic distinction as B Likitha Sree secured the prestigious VTU Gold Medal. A student of the Computer Science & Engineering (IoT & CSBT) batch (2022–2026), Likitha achieved top academic honors under Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU).

East Point College of Engineering & Technology - An Autonomous Institution Affiliated to VTU, approved by AICTE, accredited by NBA (CSE, ECE, & ISE), and a NAAC Grade 'A' accreditation continues to foster high standards of technical education and student accomplishment.

Applauding the gold medalist, Sri S.V. Pramod Gowda, CEO & Trustee of East Point Group of Institutions, said "Securing a VTU Gold Medal is a stellar landmark that highlights what can be achieved when talent meets grit and rigorous academic training. Likitha has set a benchmark of excellence for her peers and future generations of East Point students”.

Extending his warm congratulations, Sri S.V. Rajiv Gowda, CEO & Trustee of East Point Group of Institutions (EPGI), said "Likitha’s extraordinary achievement brings tremendous pride to the entire East Point family. Her success is a reflection of hard work, discipline, and an unwavering passion for learning. We wish her immense success as she steps out to make a meaningful mark on the technology landscape."

“Securing the VTU Gold Medal is a dream come true. This achievement is a tribute to my parents and teachers at East Point. The supportive learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and practical exposure at EPCET gave me the confidence to aim high and achieve academic excellence,” said B Likitha Sree who secured the prestigious VTU Gold Medal.

Likitha’s specialization in Internet of Things (IoT) and Cyber Security including Blockchain Technology (CSBT) highlights the institution's emphasis on emerging, technology-driven sectors. By providing an environment focused on research, innovation, and industry alignment, EPCET continues to empower its graduates to lead and excel in complex, global technological environments.

The entire East Point community wishes B Likitha Sree continued success and outstanding achievements in all her future academic and professional pursuits.

About East Point Group of Institutions

Established in 1997 under the visionary leadership of Dr. S.M. Venkatpathi and under the auspices of the M.G. Charitable Trust, the East Point Group of Institutions (EPGI), Bengaluru, has emerged as a beacon of excellence in higher education. Today, it is one of Karnataka's leading multidisciplinary academic ecosystems comprising 12 premier institutions, with over 10,000 students pursuing programmes in Medicine, Engineering, Management, Commerce, Computer Applications, Pharmacy, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Allied Health Sciences, and other disciplines. Spread across a sprawling 100+ acre lush green campus, EPGI is supported by a state-of-the-art 1,200-bed Multi-Specialty Hospital within the campus, providing an integrated environment for quality education, research, innovation, and healthcare.

As Young Indians Plan For Families, SBI General’s Health Alpha Brings A Holistic Health Cover Under One Plan

* From family planning to preventive care, active lifestyles and critical illness, Health Alpha is designed to support the evolving health needs of young, growing families.

The healthcare needs of Indians are changing, shaped by longer working lives, more active lifestyles, evolving family-planning choices and a growing focus on preventive care. What customers seek from health insurance today can be very different from what they may need as they move through different stages of life. This is driving a shift towards health protection that can adapt to changing priorities and provide comprehensive coverage rather than being limited to hospitalization alone.

As lifestyles and life circumstances change, the nature of health risks and the protection customers seek can change as well. For a younger individual, health protection may need to account for an active lifestyle and fitness-related needs; as customers enter family-building years, maternity and family-planning needs may become more relevant; while with age, the focus may increasingly shift towards preventive healthcare, specialized treatment and protection against critical illnesses. This changing pattern of healthcare needs is creating greater relevance for health insurance solutions that can offer protection across different life stages and adapt to the priorities of customers over time.

Against this backdrop, SBI General Insurance’s Health Alpha brings together comprehensive health protection under one product, reflecting the changing healthcare needs of today’s customers. Designed to adapt to different life stages and priorities, the product combines a range of benefits that go beyond conventional hospitalization-led coverage, offering customers a more holistic approach to health protection.

Key Health Alpha features include:

Assisted Reproduction Treatment & Maternity and New Baby Care: Recognising the evolving healthcare and family-planning needs of customers, Health Alpha includes Assisted Reproduction Treatment, particularly relevant to the 26–30 age group, along with Maternity & New Baby Care expenses, addressing healthcare needs particularly relevant to customers in the 30–45 age group.

Preventive Health Check-up & e-Opinion: As customers become more conscious of managing their health proactively, preventive healthcare is becoming relevant across life stages from younger adults looking to establish healthier habits to older customers seeking to monitor and manage evolving health risks. Health Alpha includes Preventive Health Check-up and e-Opinion benefits, supporting customers in taking a more proactive approach to their health and making informed healthcare decisions.

Adventure Sports, Gym & Sports Injury Cover: Designed to support customers aged 25 years and above with active lifestyles, particularly those in their working years, this benefit extends protection to hobby sports and daily fitness activities. It covers common sports and fitness-related injuries such as fractures, stress fractures, sprained ankles, shin splints, muscle pulls/groin pulls and sprains. The cover also supports associated healthcare expenses, including specialist consultations, diagnostics, medicines and physiotherapy.

Global Cover & Critical Illness: Health Alpha provides broader protection through Global Cover, supporting eligible healthcare requirements beyond India. Particularly relevant for working professionals aged 30–50 who travel internationally for work or other commitments, the benefit extends eligible healthcare protection overseas. The product also includes Critical Illness protection, addressing significant health risks that become increasingly relevant with age, particularly for customers aged 50 and above.

Unlimited Sum Insured Reinstatement & 10X Cumulative Bonus: Designed for long-term protection across life stages, Health Alpha offers unlimited restoration of the base sum insured after the first admissible claim. Customers can also build their health cover over time with a cumulative bonus of up to 10 times the base sum insured for every claim-free year.

Customisable Health Protection & Plan Ahead Benefit: For customers aged 25 years and above, as they begin taking on greater financial and personal responsibilities, the need for health protection can evolve over time. Health Alpha offers flexible coverage aligned to individual needs and life stages. Through the Plan Ahead Benefit, eligible new policyholders can upgrade to a higher sum insured at key milestones without fresh medical underwriting, allowing their coverage to grow with their changing healthcare needs.

The future of health insurance will be shaped by its ability to evolve alongside the people it serves. As India's health priorities shift towards prevention, wellness and personalised care, insurers have an opportunity to redefine their role from being financial risk protectors to long-term health partners. Through Health Alpha, SBI General Insurance continues to advance this vision by developing customer-centric solutions that reflect the changing realities of healthcare and the aspirations of a more health-conscious India.

About SBI General Insurance

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

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

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

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

Binance Launches Incentivized Learning Program ‘Academania Skill-Up’ Across South Asia, Rewarding Users For Blockchain Learning

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and users, announced ‘Academania Skill-Up’, a free, six-month learning campaign for users across South Asia. Each month, participants can complete a selected Binance Academy course, earn a certificate and enter a draw for rewards. The campaign aims to support beginners in building foundational knowledge of blockchain and digital assets through accessible, self-paced courses.

The initiative reflects a broader industry reckoning: crypto adoption is outpacing crypto literacy. India ranks sixth globally for grassroots crypto adoption and second for transaction volume, according to Chainalysis' 2026 Global Crypto Adoption Index. Yet as millions of first-time users enter the market—often through social media hype or peer recommendations—many lack basic knowledge of wallet security, scam recognition, or blockchain mechanics. Binance is responding by making education a prerequisite through incentivised learning as crypto adoption continues to grow .

"The gap today isn't access—it's understanding," said SB Seker, Head of APAC at Binance. "For someone starting out, a two-hour course can mean the difference between recognizing a scam and losing savings. Academania Skill-Up is designed to reward that first step—building foundational knowledge so people can approach crypto with confidence, not just curiosity."

How it works

Learn: Complete the month's featured Binance Academy course (free and self-paced) within the submission window.

Share: Post your certificate on X and Binance Square by the deadline.

Win: Ten participants are randomly selected monthly to receive a 10 USDT spot voucher—a stablecoin credit applied directly to their Binance account.

The program runs six monthly editions, each featuring a different course. The first edition (live September 23) covers the Beginner Track: blockchain basics, DeFi, Web3, and trading concepts. Participants must submit certificates by October 5, with winners announced October 15. The second edition will feature 'AI Unlocked: Agents and Skills'. Users can follow @BinanceForIN and @BinanceDesi on X, and Binance South Asia Square channel for monthly course announcements.

Academania Skill-Up extends Binance's education footprint in India, which includes Binance Academy (self-paced courses), Binance Blockchain Yatra (community outreach), and the Binance Case Challenge (university partnerships). Unlike those programs, Academania targets absolute beginners and uses incentives to drive engagement—a model that mirrors "learn-to-earn" trends in Web3 but applies them to foundational literacy.

Terms & Conditions

By entering or participating, each entrant or participant (“Entrant”) agrees to these terms and conditions (“Terms and Conditions”) and the decisions of Binance, which are final and binding in all respects.

Complete all tasks to confirm your participation.

Only Verified Users from South Asia will be eligible to join this challenge

An eligible participant is someone that has completed all of the requirements listed in this announcement.

Winners will be announced within 30 days after the challenge ends.

Rewards will be distributed within 60 working days after the challenge ends.

Binance reserves the right to cancel or modify any activity or activity rule at its sole discretion.

Binance reserves the right to disqualify any participants who, in its reasonable opinion, are acting fraudulently or not in accordance with any applicable terms and conditions.

Binance reserves the right to cancel any reward(s) if it determines in its sole and absolute discretion that such user or winner has breached any applicable terms and conditions.

Binance reserves the right at any time in its sole and absolute discretion to determine and/or amend or vary these terms and conditions without prior notice, including but not limited to canceling, extending, terminating or suspending this Activity, the eligibility terms and criteria, the selection and number of winners, and the timing of any act to be done, and all Participants shall be bound by these amendments.

Binance reserves the right of final interpretation of this Promotion

Disclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up and you may not get back the amount invested. Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. You should only invest in products that you are familiar with and where you understand the associated risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance, and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

About Binance

Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 300 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.com.

Kotak Mahindra Bank's New MD And CEO As Anoop Kumar Also Appointment : RBI Approval

Private Stage Important Banking Institutional Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited New Manager Director ( MD ) and Main Executive Anoop as an officer ( CEO ) Kumar Also Them Appointment To do Indian Reserve Bank ( RBI ) official Approval Gave That Bank Thursday Published .

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Anoop Also They Banking And Non-bank Finance Including institutions ( NBFCs ) Finance Service In the zone 25 Years With experience Total 32 For years High Long Professional Background Owned by Kotak Bank Joining Before They Bajaj Finance In Limited Senior Leadership Important Positions Deal with it , finally. Manager Director And CEO As He had worked . That too Before ICICI Bank In Limited 14 Years Time Retail Secured Assets , Business Intelligence , Retail And Rural Collection , credit Cards And Retail Structured Finance Sections In charge He was in charge .

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Thrifting Hits An All-Time High On Google Search In Indian Market

Thrifting is having a moment in India; Google Search data shows that interest in second-hand and vintage finds has reached an all-time high over the past year.

Searches for “how to thrift” have jumped 850%, while people are also exploring everything from Y2K streetwear and vintage sarees to thrifted furniture. Interest is also growing across cities, with Guwahati and Jaipur seeing breakout interest.

Hand-me-downs, repurposed clothes, and giving everyday objects a second life have long been part of the fabric of Indian households. Today, this familiar habit has evolved into a vibrant subculture of its own.

Enter thrifting. From Delhi to Dehradun, Google Trends shows that more people are looking for unique second-hand and vintage pieces, from Y2K streetwear to vintage sarees and even furniture. Here are the latest trends and how Google's AI tools can help with your next find.

Thrifting 101: Searches for "thrifting" hit an all-time high on Google Search in India in the past year, with "how to thrift" and “thrift store near me” rising by 850% and 600%, respectively. Newcomers are curious too: "what is thrift store" jumped 1,000%, alongside rising interest in terms like "thrift meaning in Hindi."

Thrift hotspots: From Delhi and Mumbai to Kochi and Dehradun, people are searching for thrift stores across the country, with Guwahati and Jaipur seeing breakout interest. (Top 10 cities: Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, Dehradun, Guwahati and Jaipur)

From wardrobes to living rooms: Jackets were the most-searched thrift item in the past year, followed by tops, shoes, jeans and furniture. Thrift tops, jeans and furniture were breakout searches.

Y2K jorts to Vintage sarees: Retro and heritage styles are both trending. "Y2K streetwear" broke out in the past year, along with jorts, track pants and baggy jeans. Vintage clothing is also seeing incredible momentum. In the past month, searches for vintage jerseys, sarees, t-shirts, jackets, and bags have seen surges.

Thrift with a purpose: For many, the appeal extends beyond individuality and value to environmental consciousness. Searches for "circular fashion" rose 2,500% over the past year, while interest in "sustainable fashion" climbed 120%.

How Google’s AI tools can help you thrift

Whether you're scrolling for finds online or digging through racks in store, Google's AI tools can help at every step.

Plan your thrift trip with Ask Maps: For a day out thrifting in person, use Ask Maps to find stores that suit your plans. Try asking: "Suggest good thrift stores near me with a café close by for a day out with a friend."

Learn more about a find with Google Lens: When something catches your eye in store, like a vintage clutch, snap a photo with Lens and ask about it. Try asking: "I want to gift this vintage bag. Suggest what to pair it with for a party look."

Find the look with Circle to Search: When a retro outfit pops up on your feed, long-press the home button or navigation bar and circle it to find similar vintage and second-hand pieces online.

Preview the fit with Virtual Try-On: Before you buy a jacket or top online, upload a full-length photo to see how it could look on you.

Style your finds with Gemini Live: When you're not sure how to wear a piece, share your camera with Gemini Live, show it the piece and talk it through. Gemini can suggest styling tips and what to pair it with.

Axis Pension Fund Launches ‘Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme’ A Health-Linked Pension Solution For Medical Emergencies

• Designed to provide a financial safety net for healthcare expenses to subscriber and their family
• Enables access to 18,000+ hospitals across 1,000+ cities nationwide
• Features an industry‑first super top‑up healthcare solution within the National Pension System

Axis Pension Fund Management today announced the availability of ‘Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme’, a voluntary health-linked pension solution designed to help individuals build a dedicated corpus for medical expenses while continuing to grow their long-term retirement savings. The offering aligns with the formal launch of NPS Swasthya by the Hon'ble Union Finance Minister on NPS Diwas 2026. Introduced by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), NPS Swasthya seeks to bring together retirement savings and healthcare protection within a unified framework.

Earlier this year, Axis Pension Fund participated in the proof-of-concept phase of NPS Swasthya, enabling subscribers to experience a health-linked retirement solution within the National Pension System (NPS) framework.

Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme enables subscribers of the NPS to allocate up to 25 percent of their contributions towards a market linked medical emergency fund that can be used for hospitalisation, doctor consultations, medicines, diagnostic tests and outpatient care. The product is designed to act as a financial safety net for healthcare expenses, including co-payments and costs that may not be covered under standard health insurance policies. The scheme is designed to support medical expenses for subscribers, providing a structured way to build a healthcare safety net within long term retirement savings.

Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme is available to Indian citizens enrolled in NPS. The offering is available in partnership with Medi Assist and provides access to a network of over 18,000 hospitals across more than 1,000 cities, enabling seamless cashless medical payments for subscribers. The scheme follows a self‑funding model, where healthcare coverage is supported by the market‑linked growth of the invested corpus.

Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme is designed as a comprehensive healthcare feature within the NPS, and not just as a top-up. In addition, the scheme covers all day care procedures, with pre-hospitalisation expenses for 30 days and post-hospitalisation expenses for 60 days, offering wide-ranging support for medical needs.

Speaking on the launch, Sumit Shukla, MD & CEO, Axis Pension Fund, said: "India is witnessing a steady rise in awareness around healthcare and financial planning. As awareness and long-term financial planning continue to grow, customers are increasingly looking for solutions that deliver flexibility alongside protection. NPS Swasthya marks an important step towards integrating healthcare preparedness with retirement planning by enabling subscribers to build a dedicated healthcare corpus while continuing to pursue their long-term retirement goals. Axis Pension Fund welcomes PFRDA's initiative to bring healthcare protection and retirement savings together within the NPS framework. We believe this can play an important role in strengthening long-term financial resilience for subscribers."

Key Features of Axis NPS Swasthya Scheme include:

• Coverage for expenses often excluded by insurance: The scheme covers consumables and administrative charges such as gloves, masks, syringes, admission charges, documentation fees, among others

• Outpatient care support: Subscribers can use the fund for doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, dental treatments, medicines and pharmacy expenses

• Support for co-payments and uncovered costs: The fund can help pay for co-payments, non-medical expenses, medicines and diagnostic tests that are not covered under standard health insurance policies

• Market linked growth potential: Funds remain invested and have the potential to grow over time, providing returns if they are not utilised immediately for medical expenses

Subscribers also benefit from additional discounts through the NPS Swasthya ecosystem, including savings on diagnostics, medicines, health check packages, vision care and dental services.

About Axis Pension Fund

Axis Pension Fund is registered as a Pension Fund with PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority). Launched in October 2022, it is a subsidiary of Axis Asset Management Company Limited (AMC) and a step-down subsidiary of Axis Bank Limited. The company specializes in offering complete suite of retirement solutions to the citizens in India such as MSF (Multiple Scheme Framework), NPS Swasthya, and NPS Vatsalya.

You may view more information on https://www.axispensionfund.com/

The All-New Fitbit Air Now Comes To The Indian Market

* Our newest screenless wearable is lightweight and delivers our most in-depth health insights yet.

Fitbit has always been committed to making great wearable technology that works for as many people as possible, through the right form factors and the right price points. But even today, many people find wearable devices to be too bulky, too complicated or too expensive.

That’s where Fitbit Air comes in — it’s simple, affordable and comfortable enough to wear 24/7. It was designed to unlock the full power of the Google Health Coach, bringing personal health insights and recommendations to everyone. 1

All-day focus and all-night comfort

Don't let the size fool you. Fitbit Air is our smallest tracker yet — a proactive wellness partner that uses high-fidelity sensor technology in a tiny, discreet pebble that enables advanced health and fitness tracking like 24/7 heart rate, heart rhythm monitoring with Afib alerts, SpO2, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, sleep stages and duration, and more.

It sits silently on your wrist with a screenless design built so you can live in the moment. You have the freedom to explore deep insights from the Google Health app on your phone when you want them, and stay notification-free when you don’t.

With up to a week of battery life, Fitbit Air keeps up with your busiest schedule — from work to workout, a night out to a good night’s rest. The low, lightweight profile is so comfortable, you’ll forget it’s there. With comfort at the core, you’ll never miss out on the benefits of sleep tracking that are central to getting the most holistic view of your health. You can even swap between your Pixel Watch during the day for Fitbit Air for sleep without missing a beat.

And when you do need a boost, fast charging gives you a full day of power in just five minutes.
Seamless activity tracking

Fitbit Air and the Google Health app make activity tracking seamless. You can start a workout from the app, follow along with a coach-recommended guided workout or simply get going and Fitbit Air will detect and track common activities automatically, sending you a recap of your workout. The automatic detection gets better over time and is personalized to you. And of course, you can log your workouts manually anytime, or with the Google Health Coach you can even snap a photo of your cardio equipment, or the circuit training routine on the whiteboard at the gym.

Together with Google Health Coach, Fitbit Air is a bridge to a more holistic view of your health and wellness, which takes your health to the next level for personalized guidance.

Band styles designed for every mood and occasion

You can change your look in seconds, just by popping out the pebble and swapping the band with a variety of options to match your style:

Elevated Loop

Performance Loop Band: Made from recycled materials, this band is micro-adjustable for a flexible, breathable fit. It comes standard with every Fitbit Air in-box and is available in a variety of shades for a subtle look or pop of color.

Active Band: Sweatproof, wetproof silicone is perfect for high-intensity training and can withstand the elements. Its subtle ribbed design adds sporty flair in vibrant hues to match your athletic look.

Elevated Modern Band: Discreetly smart and distinctly stylish, this band transforms your device from a fitness tracker into a fashionable bracelet with classic colors that blend with any style.

Availability

Fitbit Air will be on shelves at the Google Store and our retail partners on 2 October for ₹13,999. It comes in four colorways — Obsidian, Berry, Lavender and Fog — and includes a three-month trial of Google Health Premium, giving you full access to Google Health Coach right out of the box. 10 Visit the Google Store for more information on availability and product updates.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Receives RBI Approval To Appoint Anup Kumar Saha As Managing Director & CEO

Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (“Kotak” or “the Bank”) today announced that the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”) has approved the appointment of Anup Kumar Saha as the Bank’s Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (“MD & CEO”) for a period of three years, effective January 1, 2027. The Board of Directors of the Bank will initiate further steps in due course, to formalize the aforesaid appointment and also seek members' approval for the same.

Anup is currently Whole-time Director (Executive Director) of Kotak Mahindra Bank. He joined the Bank in January 2026 and since March 2026 has overseen the Retail Bank, Data Analytics and Marketing function.

C. S. Rajan, Chairman of the Board, Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “We welcome the Reserve Bank of India’s approval. Anup brings with him extensive experience across banking and financial services and has already been actively engaged with the Bank’s businesses in his current role. As the Bank continues to build on its strong foundations we look forward to Anup’s leadership in strengthening the franchise and in pursuing sustainable growth. On behalf of the Board, I wish Anup every success in leading Kotak into its next phase of growth.”

Ashok Vaswani, Managing Director & CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “Anup is a seasoned financial services leader with deep experience across businesses, customer segments and operating functions. Since joining Kotak, he has worked closely with our teams and demonstrated a clear understanding of the opportunities ahead. I am confident that Anup will build on Kotak’s strong foundations, deepen its customer relationships and lead the Bank forward with purpose and discipline. I wish him every success.”

Anup Kumar Saha said, “I am grateful to the Board for the trust placed in me and delighted to have the opportunity to lead Kotak Mahindra Bank. Kotak has a strong franchise, a trusted brand and talented teams across the organisation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to deepen customer relationships, tirelessly execute and build sustainable value for shareholders and all our stakeholders. We will remain firmly focused on doing the right thing and getting it right by the customer.”

Anup has over 32 years of professional experience, including 25 years in financial services across banking and non-banking financial institutions. Before joining Kotak, he held a series of senior leadership roles at Bajaj Finance Limited, culminating in his appointment as Managing Director & CEO. Earlier, during 14 years at ICICI Bank Limited, he led businesses and functions spanning Retail Secured Assets, Business Intelligence, Retail and Rural Collections, Credit Cards and Retail Structured Finance.

Earlier in his career, Anup worked with GE Capital across credit cards, sales and analytics and with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited in production engineering. He holds a B. Tech degree in Engineering from IIT Kharagpur and an MBA from IIM Lucknow.

HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G Launches On Flipkart, Building On The Strong Success Of HMD Vibe2 In India

HMD today announced the launch of the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G, the latest addition to its Vibe2 smartphone series, powered by the 5G-enabled MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset. Building on the strong success of the HMD Vibe2 5G in India, the new smartphone brings meaningful upgrades across performance, photography, display and battery, while continuing HMD’s focus on building durable, dependable devices with Indian consumers at heart.

Designed for everyday use across streaming, photography, gaming, multitasking and staying connected, the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G combines a capable 5G platform with an upgraded camera, FHD+ immersive 120Hz display and a large 6000mAh battery with 33W fast charging capability.

Performance at the Core

At the heart of the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G is the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, an octa-core 5G chipset featuring 2x Cortex-A76 cores clocked at up to 2.4GHz and 6x Cortex-A55 cores clocked at up to 2.0GHz. Designed to deliver responsive everyday performance across multitasking, browsing, entertainment and gaming, while supporting efficient 5G connectivity.

The device comes in two variants 6/128GB & 8/128GB with expandable memory support up to 512GB via microSD card. Together, the hardware is designed to provide users with the headroom they need for everyday apps, entertainment and multitasking.

Speaking on the launch, Ravi Kunwar, VP and CEO, HMD India and APAC, said, “India has shown us what it expects from our Vibe series, dependable technology, meaningful upgrades and experiences designed around everyday life. With the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G, we are taking that experience further with the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G platform, a 64MP Sony IMX 682 camera, FHD+ 120Hz display and a 6000mAh battery with 33W fast charging. Our ‘Indian at heart’ approach also goes beyond hardware. With Indus by Sarvam AI, designed to support 22 Indian languages and built with India’s cultural context in mind, we are bringing more relevant and accessible AI experiences to consumers. Building on the strong response to HMD Vibe2, the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G represents our commitment to creating technology that is capable, relevant and dependable for Indian consumers. We are excited to bring it to consumers across the country on Flipkart during the Big Billion Days, making this new Vibe experience accessible at one of India’s biggest shopping moments.”

Capture More with an Upgraded Camera

The HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G features a 64MP Sony IMX 682 rear camera sensor paired with a 2MP Micro sensor, designed to capture detailed photographs and videos across everyday scenarios. A 13MP front camera enables sharper selfies and video calls.

A Smoother, Brighter Viewing Experience

The smartphone features a 6.78-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 800 nits typical brightness. The high refresh rate enables smoother scrolling and navigation, while the display is designed to remain bright and legible across different everyday usage scenarios.

Power That Lasts

Backing the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G is a 6000mAh battery, designed to keep users connected and entertained through their day. The device supports 33W fast charging, with a compatible charger included in the box, offering added convenience for users.

Android 16 and Everyday Essentials

The HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G ships with Android 16, bringing a modern software experience alongside the device’s performance capabilities.

The smartphone features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, proximity and light sensors, dual speakers, dual Mic, USB Type-C connectivity and a 3.5mm audio jack, offering users a combination of modern connectivity and familiar everyday essentials.

Distinctive Design

The HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G is available in three finishes, Silver Mist, Aqua Green and Cosmic Purple. Each variant features a subtle rainbow effect around the camera deco, adding a distinctive visual element to the device while complementing its overall design.

Meanwhile, the HMD Vibe2 5G portfolio continues to expand with the addition of a new Wine Red colour, giving consumers another choice within the existing HMD Vibe2 5G lineup.

Built with India at Heart

Continuing HMD’s “Indian at heart” approach, the HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G brings together technology and services designed around the needs and context of Indian consumers.

Indus by Sarvam AI: The device features Indus by Sarvam AI, an AI assistant designed to support 22 Indian languages, with a focus on Indian cultural context. Its servers and data are hosted in India.

Sanchar Saathi: The HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G integrates Sanchar Saathi, the Government of India’s citizen platform, enabling users to access features such as checking mobile connections registered in their name, blocking and tracing lost or stolen phones, reporting suspected fraudulent communications and verifying the genuineness of their handset. This app remains optional for the consumers to install.

Service Support Across India: HMD’s service network includes 200+ care centres, with pickup-and-drop support covering 18,000+ pin codes across the country, helping users access support beyond the point of purchase.

Availability

The HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G & Wine Red colour of HMD Vibe 2 5G will go on sale from 8th October 2026 on Flipkart, alongside Flipkart’s Big Billion Days (BBD) sale. HMD Vibe2 Pro 5G 6/128GB & 8/128GB are priced at a special launch price of INR14,999 & INR 16,999 respectively.

For further information, please contact the HMD press office: hmd@adfactorspr.com

About HMD

We are HMD, Human Mobile Devices. At HMD, we start by tuning into what people really want. Our consumers are passionate about the planet, often feel swamped by digital overload, and are keeping a close eye on their budget. That’s why we are thrilled to be Europe’s largest smartphone maker, championing repair-at-home phones, and a go-to for much needed digital time out.

Coming this year, you can expect to see a new portfolio of HMD original mobile devices, as well as Nokia phones and exciting new partnerships. For further information, see www.hmd.com

For media inquiries, please contact: HMD Press Office: hmd@adfactorspr.com

Content Fingerprinting Holds The Key To India's Future AI Copyright Framework: Gracenote At FICCI

* Content provenance and attribution are the next vital frontiers for the industry

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded across the media and entertainment value chain, the industry is facing a new challenge: how to identify, understand and attribute the content being used by AI systems.

As policymakers and the creative industry examine how existing copyright frameworks should apply to generative AI, a recent Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) discussion paper examined questions around the use of copyrighted material for AI training, copyright and authorship of AI-generated works, moral rights and potential liability for infringement. These issues were discussed at the FICCI panel, The Great Content Race: Artificial Intelligence and Copyright, featuring Uday Singh, Motion Picture Association; Kaushik Moitra, Bharucha and Partners; Manasvi Sharma, Gracenote; and Anil Lale, JioStar, with the discussion moderated by Mihir Rale.

"The use of AI is inevitable across the content ecosystem. As AI becomes more integrated into content creation and discovery, we need to ensure that the underlying content can be identified, understood and attributed. This makes trusted content intelligence and provenance increasingly important," said Manasvi Sharma, Senior Vice President, Technology at Gracenote, speaking during the discussion.

A significant role AI is playing in media is understanding existing content not simply creating new movies or music, but understanding what is happening inside a movie, programme, sporting event or other media so that it can be discovered, distributed, engaged with and monetized more effectively. Creators want audiences to discover their content and the value of their intellectual property to persist as it moves through the ecosystem. This is where a neutral identity and data layer becomes important.

Media has historically been identified largely at the programme or title level. Increasingly, however, content can be identified at the level of scenes, moments and portions of the stream itself, an area Gracenote is actively working on. If identity can persist at that level, a clip, scene, short-form derivative or other piece of media derived from the original can potentially be associated back with the underlying programme.

Gracenote is already applying AI to content discovery, connecting AI models with trusted, source-verified content intelligence. Its recent research found that ungrounded AI models fabricated every tested metadata attribute for nearly one in five movie and TV titles examined, highlighting the importance of authoritative content data in AI-powered discovery experiences.

The discussion also highlighted the broader question of whether the emerging challenges around AI and copyright will require market-led mechanisms, technological solutions, statutory intervention or a combination of these approaches. Any framework for licensing or remuneration will ultimately require greater visibility into what content has been used and how it has contributed to AI systems and outputs.

Consistent identifiers can provide a foundation for tracking content across its lifecycle, while provenance mechanisms could help establish declared sources and licensed content within AI-driven workflows. Together, these can provide the visibility needed to support discussions around licensing and remuneration.

About Gracenote:

Gracenote is the content intelligence business unit of Nielsen. We standardize the way the global media and entertainment ecosystem indexes content and associated metadata, allowing it to flow between creators, distributors, platforms and advertisers. By providing unmatched depth across 50M+ titles and 80K+ channels and catalogs, we power the modern search, discovery and navigation experiences that connect people to the TV, movies, music and sports they love—in 70+ languages across 80+ countries. For more information, visit Gracenote.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Nike Debuts A Race-Day System Of Speed Designed For Every Runner

What is Nike’s race-day system of speed?

Nike’s race-day system of speed is a footwear lineup that gives runners a clear way to choose the footwear that best matches their goals, distance and experience.

What shoes are included?
Nike’s race-day system of speed includes Nike Apex, Alphafly 4 and Swooshfly. Each shoe serves a distinct purpose, creating a lineup of complementary innovations that make race day feel more possible, personal and powerful.

How do runners choose which shoe is best for them?
Nike designed its race-day system of speed to provide runners a choice, not a hierarchy. Nike Apex serves runners chasing every possible second, Nike Alphafly helps more runners experience marathon speed and Nike Swooshfly offers an invitation to race day.

When are the shoes available?
Nike Alphafly 4 will launch in October, followed by Nike Apex in January 2027 and Nike Swooshfly in February 2027. Each shoe will be available at nike.com and select retail locations.

Race Day Asks Different Things Of Different Runners.

A second that changes history. A personal best. A first starting line.

Just as every runner’s journey is different, their race-day needs are too. That’s why Nike is introducing a new race-day system of speed built around a simple belief: Race-day innovation should help runners pursue their own goals, not fit into a single definition of performance.

Rather than organizing racing footwear as a hierarchy, Nike designed its race-day lineup as a choice. Each shoe serves a distinct purpose, helping runners find a race-day experience that aligns with their ambitions, experience and preferences.

Together, Nike Apex, Alphafly 4 and Swooshfly create Nike’s most comprehensive race-day offering yet, giving runners more ways to access the brand’s decades of athlete insight and innovation. This system complements Nike’s road running footwear lineup with innovations built for any race day.

Nike Apex pushes the edge of what racing innovation can become, delivering Nike’s most advanced expression of speed for runners chasing the edge of marathon performance.

Nike Alphafly 4 unlocks speed for all, balancing responsiveness, comfort, stability and efficiency over distance.

Nike Swooshfly opens the door, offering an invitation to race day by helping runners feel confident, cushioned and ready to take on the unknown.

This system of speed is built around Nike’s fundamental belief that race-day speed should belong to all runners. Each shoe came from the same place: a runner’s problem, studied in the Nike Sport Research Lab, solved through product and proven through athlete testing before ever reaching a starting line.

“Race day is one of the most meaningful moments in a runner’s journey, but that moment looks different for everyone,” says Bret Schoolmeester, VP, Nike Running Footwear. “With Nike Apex, Alphafly 4 and Swooshfly, we created a system that helps runners choose the experience they want on race day, whether that means finding the confidence to step onto a starting line for the first time or chasing every possible second in pursuit of a breakthrough performance.”

Nike’s advantage comes from decades of racing innovation shaped by athletes.

From co-founder Bill Bowerman’s earliest handcrafted spikes to the original super shoes that redefined racing more than a decade ago, Nike has consistently pushed running innovation forward for more than 50 years. Today, that commitment continues through a race-day system built around athlete insight, scientific research and breakthrough technologies designed to improve running economy and help runners unlock new levels of performance.

Nike’s contemporary system of speed brings together proprietary Air Zoom platforms, advanced foams and engineered plates to deliver distinct solutions for different runners, goals and race-day experiences. The easy-to-understand footwear lineup solves athletes’ most pressing needs of comfort, confidence, efficiency and speed –– whether they’re training for their first, fastest or farthest race.

Follow Swoosh.Racing to see Nike’s race-day system of speed come to life.

New Model Port Folio? Equity In Investment Private Assets Share At 30 Percent​ To Rise Reason Unveiled Renuka Ramnath

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Max India Foundation And ISB Launch ‘SCALE’ Initiative To Advance Research On Senior Care In India

* The SCALE initiative will bridge research and industry experience to enable evidence-based care models, informed decision-making and scalable solutions for an ageing India

The Max India Foundation (MIF) and the Max Institute of Healthcare Management (MIHM) at the Indian School of Business (ISB) today announced the launch of the SCALE (Senior Care Advancement Through Learning and Evidence) Initiative. Supported by a multi-year CSR grant from MIF, the initiative will generate knowledge and evidence to strengthen care propositions for India's rapidly growing senior population.

India is witnessing an increasing demand for senior care that is accessible, appropriate and sustainable. As the industry expands across senior living, healthcare, AgeTech, financing and insurance, organisations and experts are generating valuable insights through practice and innovation. But these learnings remain fragmented. The SCALE Initiative seeks to address this gap by generating evidence and translating it into insights that can assist industry stakeholders and policymakers to make informed decisions. The initiative will focus on consumer behaviour, workforce participation, social inclusion, operating and care delivery models and their financing, and technology adoption. Antara Senior Care will serve as a founding industry partner, supporting SCALE’s engagement with the senior care sector.

The MoU for the initiative was exchanged between Tara Singh Vachani, Managing Trustee, Max India Foundation and Executive Chairperson, Antara Senior Care, and ISB Dean Madan Pillutla, in the presence of Rajit Mehta, MD, Max India Limited and CEO, Antara Senior Care; Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services; Sarang Deo, Executive Director, Max Institute of Healthcare Management at ISB; Karthik Balakrishnan, Deputy Dean – Faculty and Research, ISB; and DNV Kumara Guru, Senior Director – Advancement, Alumni Engagement and External Relations, ISB.

Launched at ISB’s Hyderabad campus through a stakeholder roundtable, the SCALE Initiative will bring together researchers, senior care industry stakeholders and clinicians to examine the evolving care needs of seniors and identify priority action areas. The initiative will connect real-world industry challenges with research to impact service design, operating models, technology adoption, workforce planning, investment and innovation across the sector.

Tara Singh Vachani, Managing Trustee, Max India Foundation, said: “India's demographic transition presents an opportunity to build a deeper understanding of how seniors can lead healthier, more independent and fulfilling lives.

As lifespan improves, seniors are seeking greater health, independence, purpose, dignity and choice. Meeting these aspirations requires a deeper understanding of their diverse needs and experiences. The SCALE Initiative brings together research, practitioner insights and stakeholder perspectives to strengthen the evidence base around ageing and care. Our aim is to translate this knowledge into more effective care models, stronger support systems and better outcomes for seniors and their families. Through this initiative, we hope to contribute to the broader national conversation on how India can prepare for and respond to the opportunities and challenges of an ageing society.”

Professor Sarang Deo, Executive Director, Max Institute of Healthcare Management, ISB, said: “India is entering a phase where the growing needs and aspirations of a senior population will require us to rethink how we design systems, services and markets for seniors. SCALE brings a management and evidence-based perspective to this challenge, examining how businesses, healthcare organisations and public institutions can respond to these changes across financing, technology, workforce participation, consumer and producer behaviour, and social inclusion. Through SCALE, our objective is to build a stronger evidence base that can inform both private-sector practice and public policy to shape more effective and sustainable responses to India's growing senior population.”

SCALE at MIHM will serve as a sustained research and industry engagement platform, enabling research collaborations, data partnerships, pilots, evaluations and knowledge exchange. Over time, it aims to build an industry-level evidence base to help organisations innovate, respond to evolving consumer needs, make informed business and investment decisions, strengthen workforce strategies and scale effective approaches.

The initiative draws on Antara Senior Care’s experience of building an integrated continuum of care across senior living, care homes and services, wellness, and products and solutions for chronic disease management, bringing real-world insights to address the evolving needs of seniors and their families. This complements MIHM’s healthcare research expertise and ISB’s broader commitment to building knowledge and partnerships to address critical societal challenges.

About Max India Foundation

Max India Foundation (MIF) is the philanthropic arm of the Max Group, committed to advancing social impact through strategic philanthropy and partnerships. Guided by the Group’s vision of “Caring for Life”, MIF has worked across healthcare, education and community development to improve outcomes for underserved communities in India. Over the years, MIF has supported initiatives that enhanced access to quality healthcare, improved sanitation and waste management in rural communities, and strengthened the capabilities of nonprofit organisations driving systemic change in public education. Building on its legacy of touching millions of lives through collaborative impact, the Max India Foundation is now focused on addressing the opportunities and challenges arising from India's rapidly ageing population. In line with the Max Group's long-term strategic commitment to the senior care sector, MIF is evolving its philanthropic efforts towards advancing healthy ageing and improving the quality of life, healthspan, and wellbeing of senior citizens. MIF is now incubating a programme to address loneliness in elders. With its focus on knowledge creation, research, ecosystem partnerships, and evidence-based interventions, the Foundation seeks to catalyse solutions that enable seniors to live healthier, more dignified and independent lives.

About MIHM

The Max Institute of Healthcare Management (MIHM) at the Indian School of Business (ISB) is an interdisciplinary research institute focused on improving the delivery, financing, and management of healthcare. MIHM brings together researchers and practitioners to generate evidence and develop practical solutions for complex challenges in healthcare systems. Its work spans healthcare delivery and quality, health financing and public policy, digital health, innovation and entrepreneurship, and patient-centric and behavioural health. Through research, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, MIHM seeks to strengthen healthcare systems and contribute to better health outcomes. 

Mithun K. Chittilappilly Appointed Chairperson & Managing Director Of V-Guard Industries Ltd.

The Board of Directors of V-Guard Industries Limited, one of India’s leading FMEG companies, has appointed Mr. Mithun K. Chittilappilly as Chairperson & Managing Director, effective September 27, 2026.

Mithun, who has served as Managing Director since 2012, will take on the additional responsibility of Chairperson following the completion of Ms. Radha Unni’s second and final term as Chairperson and Independent Director.

Mithun joined V-Guard in 2006 as Executive Director. When Mithun joined the company, the turnover was about 229 crores. It has increased 24x to Rs. 5966 crores in FY 2026. Over the past two decades, he has played a central role in the company’s transformation from a South Indian electrical brand into a strong diversified, pan-India consumer durables major.

Since joining V-Guard in 2006, Mithun has been instrumental in driving the company’s geographical expansion, portfolio diversification and manufacturing growth, significantly strengthening the brand in the Indian consumer electrical and electronics market.

During this tenure, V-Guard’s workforce grew from around 575 employees in 2006 to 11,350 as of August 2026, reflecting the scale of its growth and organisational transformation.

Today, V-Guard has 15 manufacturing facilities across 7 states in India and a diversified portfolio of 20+ categories reflecting the company’s evolution from a regional electrical brand to a broader consumer durables major.

His tenure has also seen organisation-wide transformation across brand, customer service, supply chain, sales & marketing, human resources and finance.

Through these transformational projects, V-Guard evolved from a people-dependent organisation into a process-oriented company, strengthening its systems, capabilities and processes. The company has also earned several national and global recognitions, including accolades for its workplace practices. V-Guard was recognised among the World’s Most Trustworthy Companies 2025 by Newsweek and Statista and was named India’s Best Employer 2025 by TIME magazine. The company has also been a four-time recipient of the AmbitionBox Employee Choice Award for Best Place to Work in the Mid-sized Consumer Electronics Company category. In design excellence, V-Guard won five Red Dot Global Design Awards, further reinforcing its focus on innovation and design. The company has also earned Superbrand status in the voltage stabilizer category for five consecutive years, reflecting the enduring trust and strength of the V-Guard brand. The company continues to maintain a low attrition rate, reflecting strong employee engagement and a positive workplace culture.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Mithun K. Chittilappilly, Chairperson & Managing Director, V-Guard Industries Limited, said: “It is an honour and a privilege to take on the responsibility of Chairperson & Managing Director of V-Guard Industries at a defining moment in the company’s journey. Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege to witness and contribute along with my team to V-Guard’s transformation from a regional brand into a strong growing pan-Indian organisation. As V-Guard moves towards its 50th anniversary, I see this milestone as an opportunity to build on our strong foundation and prepare the organisation for its next phase of growth.”

His journey from Executive Director in 2006 to Managing Director in 2012 and now Chairperson & Managing Director in 2026 mirrors V-Guard’s own evolution into a diversified, pan-India company. He assumed charge as Chairperson & Managing Director on September 27, 2026.

About V-Guard Industries Ltd.

V-Guard Industries Limited is India’s leading consumer electrical and electronics major based in Kochi. A publicly listed entity, the company recorded revenues of Rs 5577.82 crores in FY 2025 and is present across the country with 35 branches and over 1,00,000 channel partners. Founded in 1977 by Mr Kochouseph Chittilappilly to manufacture and market Voltage stabilizers, it has now become a force to reckon with in the Indian electric and electronic goods panorama. The company, in the last 48 years, has established a strong brand name and aggressively diversified into a multi-product company with a portfolio including Voltage stabilizers, Inverter & Inverter Batteries, Electric Water Heaters, Solar Water Heaters, Pumps & Motors, Domestic Switchgears, Wires & Cables, Fans, Modular Switches, Air Coolers and Kitchen Appliances. V-Guard not only exhibits market leadership in India in several categories but also product leadership through launching several ‘industry-first’ smart products such as Intelligent & Smart Water Heaters, Smart Inverters, Smart fans with LED lights and several other innovative and aesthetically superior designs in various product categories. 

Google Fitbit Air Hits Shelves In India On October 2, 2026 Across India

* Available starting at ₹13,999

* Google’s smallest, lightest Fitbit tracker delivers in-depth health insights, up to seven days of battery life, and personalized guidance with Google Health Coach.

Starting 2 October, people across India can get their hands on Google Fitbit Air – Google’s newest screenless wearable engineered to make 24/7 health tracking lightweight, distraction-free, and accessible. Packed with high-fidelity sensors, the compact pebble brings together advanced heart and sleep tracking with the power of Google Health Coach, helping users build healthier habits without the intrusion of constant screen notifications.

Discreet design, comprehensive health insights

Google Fitbit Air delivers advanced wellness metrics directly to the Google Health app on your phone, including:

Continuous heart tracking: 24/7 heart rate monitoring, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and irregular heart rhythm (Afib) notifications.

In-depth sleep analysis: Tracks sleep stages and duration in a form factor comfortable enough to wear all night.

Key vitals: Blood oxygen (SpO2) tracking and automatic activity detection that personalizes to your routines over time.

Up to 7-day battery life: Fast charging provides a full day of battery life in just five minutes.

Personalized wellness with Google Health Coach

Google Fitbit Air connects seamlessly with Google Health Coach, translating sensor data into actionable daily habits. Users can log workouts automatically, follow guided sessions, or snap a photo of gym equipment and workout routines to log their activity instantly.

Designed for every style

Google Fitbit Air features an interchangeable pebble design with three distinct band styles:

Performance Loop Band: Lightweight, breathable, and made from recycled materials (included in the box).

Active Band: Sweatproof silicone designed for high-intensity training.

Elevated Modern Band: A premium, stylish band for everyday wear.

Pricing, availability, and offers

Google Fitbit Air arrives in India on 2 October for ₹13,999 in four colorways: Obsidian, Berry, Lavender, and Fog. Every purchase includes a three-month trial of Google Health Premium, unlocking full access to Google Health Coach right out of the box. At launch, buyers can avail a ₹1,000 cashback on full swipe, or opt for a ₹1,000 cashback combined with a 6-month no-cost EMI on select HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank cards. Additionally, no-cost EMI options are available for up to 12 months on consumer loans. Fitbit Air will be available on the Google Store and through partners including Flipkart, Croma, Reliance Digital, Vijay Sales and others across India.