Sony India Celebrates 10 Years Of 1000X Series With The Launch Of The 1000X THE COLLEXION & WF-1000XM6

Sony India has announced the launch of the exclusive 1000X THE COLLEXION and the new WF-1000XM6, commemorating 10 years of the acclaimed 1000X Series. Since redefining premium personal audio with industry-leading noise cancellation, the 1000X Series has set the benchmark for immersive listening worldwide. Building on this legacy, Sony's latest offerings combine sophisticated design, intelligent features and exceptional audio performance to deliver the next evolution of premium listening experiences.

1000X THE COLLEXION

Luxury design & Premium comfort: Designed with a refined, minimalist aesthetic, the headphones seamlessly blend premium materials with exceptional comfort for an elevated listening experience. It features premium metal accents, luxurious leather finishes, a slim profile and sophisticated colour options. Built for extended listening sessions, the headphones offer a wider headband, spacious ear cushions, lightweight construction, and a comfortable around-the-neck fit to minimise fatigue throughout the day.

Thoughtfully engineered for convenience, the WH-1000XX also comes with a magnetic carrying case and intuitive physical controls, ensuring effortless portability and ease of use.

Ultimate listening experience: Engineered to deliver an immersive and authentic listening experience, the headphones combine advanced hardware and intelligent software to faithfully reproduce every detail of the creator's intent. A bespoke driver unit, powered by HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 and Integrated Processor V3, works in harmony with sound tuning developed in collaboration with award-winning mastering engineers under Sony's "For the Music" initiative to deliver smooth vocals, clear instrument balance and nuanced dynamics, faithfully conveying the creator’s intent.

The listening experience is further elevated with 360 Upmix for Music, Cinema and Gaming, dedicated listening modes, Sound AR and support for 360 Reality Audio. With DSEE Ultimate, Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless certification along with a 10-band equaliser featuring dedicated Game EQ and BGM modes, users can enjoy exceptional sound fidelity tailored to their personal preferences.

Legendary 1000X series Noise Cancelling: WH-1000XX powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, noise cancelling is optimised in real time. The headphones leverage Multi Noise Sensor technology with 12 precision microphones to detect and suppress ambient noise with remarkable accuracy.

The Adaptive Noise Cancelling Optimiser intelligently adjusts to the user's environment and wearing conditions, while the Wind Noise Reduction Structure ensures uninterrupted, crystal-clear listening even in outdoor settings, allowing users to immerse themselves in their music wherever they go.

Ultra Clear calls: Powered by an AI-optimised noise reduction algorithm, the headphones isolate your voice while reducing surrounding noise. Beamforming microphones and Precise Voice Pickup Technology deliver crystal-clear calls, even in challenging environments.

Additionally, Refined microphone placement and an optimized structural design minimize wind interference, delivering clearer calls and a more comfortable listening experience. Stay in control of your calls by muting or unmuting instantly with a double press of the NC/AMB button, without needing to access your device.

Intelligent Controls for a Seamless Listening Experience: Designed for effortless everyday use, the headphones integrate intelligent features that make listening more intuitive and personalised, such as

Google Gemini Integration

Quick Access & Smart Voice Controls

Adaptive Sound Control

Personalised Listening Experience with Sound Connect App

Scene-based Listening and Auto Play

Intelligent Everyday Features (Wearing Detection, Head Gestures, Speak-to-Chat, and Quick Attention)

Seamless Multi-Device Connectivity

WF-1000XM6

Best Noise cancelling: WF-1000XM6 delivers the world’s best noise-cancelling performance, with a further 25% reduction in noise compared with its predecessor, the WF-1000XM5. Sony's newly developed Auto Noise Cancelling Optimizer intelligently adapts to the user's wearing conditions and surrounding environment to deliver its best-ever noise-cancelling performance. Additionally, Auto Ambient Sound mode adapts to surroundings in real time, balancing music and external sound. Its multiple microphones filter noise or let in what matters: announcements, conversations, or the world around.

Premium Sound Quality: Built on Sony's legacy of audio innovation, the WF-1000XM6 deliver an elevated premium sound experience through enhancements in core acoustic performance and close collaboration with renowned music creators. Tuned to reproduce every nuance with exceptional clarity, depth and precision, they enable listeners to experience music exactly as the artist intended. It is powered by the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, with an improved DAC and amplifier, to delivers cleaner, richer sound that reveals every nuance. It’s audio that feels true to the moment.

Designed for all day comfort: Designed with comfort at its core, the new earbuds feature a further evolved ergonomic design that delivers a secure, comfortable and personalised fit for extended listening sessions. The refined surface design enhances wearability and creates an improved seal around the ears, helping maximise both comfort and noise isolation, so users can enjoy an immersive audio experience throughout the day.

AI Noise Reduction for crystal clear calls: The WF-1000XM6 delivers Sony's best-ever call quality, enabling exceptionally clear and natural conversations, even in noisy environments. Powered by advanced AI-driven voice pickup technology and enhanced microphone performance, it intelligently isolates the user's voice while minimizing background noise.

An optimized voice pickup system, featuring intelligently directed microphones and a bone conduction sensor that captures speech directly from the user, ensures every word is transmitted with remarkable clarity—whether you're at home, in the office, or on the move.

Intelligent Controls for a Seamless Listening Experience: The WF-1000XM6 is designed to deliver a smarter, more intuitive listening experience with intelligent features that adapt to your lifestyle. Scene-Based Listening automatically recognizes activities such as walking, running, or working out to personalize your audio experience. With hands-free access to Google Gemini, users can simply use their voice to get instant assistance, manage notifications, control music, and stay connected while on the move.

Intuitive head gesture controls allow users to answer or decline calls naturally with a nod or shake of the head, while Speak-to-Chat automatically lowers the music volume as soon as you begin speaking, enabling seamless conversations without removing the earbuds. Together, these intelligent features create a personalized, effortless, and truly connected listening experience throughout the day.

Designed for the flow of daily life: Designed for everyday convenience, the WF-1000XM6 is built to keep up with any lifestyle. Its sweat- and splash-resistant design provides confidence during workouts, commutes, and everyday activities. With up to 24 hours of battery life, including the charging case, and quick charging that delivers up to 50 minutes of playback from just a 5-minute charge, users can enjoy uninterrupted listening throughout the day.

Battery Care in the Sony | Sound Connect app helps extend long-term battery health by optimizing charging, while Qi-compatible wireless charging offers a convenient cable-free power-up experience. For added convenience during calls, users can instantly mute or unmute the microphone directly from the earbuds, ensuring seamless communication without reaching for their connected device.

Pricing and Availability: The newly launched 1000X THE COLLEXION and the WF-1000XM6 will be available 7th August 2026 onwards on Amazon, Flipkart, select Croma and Reliance Digital, Sony Center retail stores and ShopAtSC.com.

 

Model Name	Marketing Name	Colour	Best Buy (in INR)	Availability
WH-1000XX	1000X THE COLLEXION	Black & Platinum	59,990/-	7th August 2026 onwards
WF-1000XM6	WF-1000XM6	Black & Platinum Silver	29,990/-

 

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.

Nearly 74% Of Indian Adults Accessed A Loan At Least Once In The Last Decade

* The proportion of eligible Indians who have taken credit at least once has more than doubled from 35% in March 2017 to 74% in March 2026, with credit monitoring[1] jumping from 1% to 35% between March 2018 and March 2026

* Credit growth is being driven by women, younger borrowers and non-metro regions with growth in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar outpacing that of traditional strongholds of the west and south

* Study shows significant opportunity to bring more New-To-Credit (NTC) consumers as well as NTC commercial entities into the formal credit fold

India’s formal credit footprint has expanded significantly over the past nine years reveals TransUnion CIBIL’s new report, Unlocking Access: Journey of Credit Expansion in India. The report presents a study from March 2017 to March 2026 on how formal credit access has widened and how participation within the ecosystem has deepened through greater demographic diversity and credit awareness.

India’s credit-eligible[2] population increased from 79 crore in 2017 to 89 crore consumers in 2026. Of this group, the share of ever-credited[3] consumers, i.e., those who have accessed retail credit at least once, more than doubled from 35% in March 2017 to 74% in March 2026, demonstrating the wide progress and penetration of formal credit in India in the last few years.

The proportion of credit-active[4] consumers within the credit-eligible[5] population also increased during this period, from 11% in March 2017 to 28% in March 2026. However, the compounded annual growth rate of the credit-active consumer base moderated from 14% during the March 2017–March 2019 period to 9% during March 2024–March 2026 period. At the same time, the share of New-to-Credit (NTC) consumers in retail originations declined from 32% in March 2017 quarter to 13% in the March 2026 quarter. These numbers indicate significant opportunity to both deepen engagement with those already within the credit fold, and to bring new consumers into the formal credit ecosystem.

Mr. Bhavesh Jain, MD and CEO, TransUnion CIBIL, said, “The past decade has been a defining one for India’s credit ecosystem. In the 2016-17 period, the country saw momentous changes in the form of demonetization, the introduction of GST and the rapid adoption of Unified Payment Interface (UPI). Over the course of the decade, regulators, banks and lenders, NBFCs, fintechs, Credit Information Companies, technological advances and the digital public infrastructure collectively expanded pathways to credit. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated adoption of digital tools. Cumulatively, these developments are believed to have contributed to increased access to credit and financial inclusion, while enabling lenders to make more informed and timely credit decisions.”

Borrower Wallets Shift Towards Lifestyle-Driven and Entrepreneurial Credit

The deepening of borrower engagement was accompanied by a marked change in the composition of credit wallets, with consumers showing a clear preference for consumption and entrepreneurial credit.

Consumption credit[6], comprising personal loans, credit cards and consumer durable loans, emerged as the most widely held category. The share of credit-active consumers holding consumption products increased from 34% in March 2017 to 51% in March 2026, while the number of consumers holding these products grew fourfold in the same period.

Business-oriented credit[7] recorded an even sharper increase, with the share of credit-active consumers holding these products rising from 3% to 9%, while their number grew tenfold – registering the fastest expansion among the categories studied. In comparison, while gold loan[8] participation increased from 19% to 22%, growth in vehicle loans[9] and mortgage products[10] remained stable.

Mr. Jain added, “The changes in wallet composition point to how credit is being increasingly seen as a means to drive a lifestyle-driven approach today, compared to the asset-based approach seen a decade ago. Credit dispersion has travelled a long way thanks to consumption loans. At the same time, the sharp increase in business loans by individuals points to increased use of credit by individuals for entrepreneurial activity. This creates a great opportunity for lenders to take a holistic view of individual proprietors and their business together as part of their lending strategies.”

A More Diverse Borrower Base Expands Credit Participation

The widening of formal credit access was accompanied by a change in the composition of India’s credit-active population. Women borrowers increased their share from 22% in March 2017 to 30% in March 2026, while that of young borrowers[11] rose from 33% to 39% in the same period. The share of consumers from semi-urban and rural regions (SURU) went up from 53% to 63%.

Within these expanding segments, younger consumers from semi-urban and rural regions in particular increased their share from 47% to 61%. Among women, the share with more than five years of retail credit experience increased from 29% to 43%, while semi-urban and rural credit-active women consumers went up to 64% in March 2026, compared to 57% in March 2017.

As credit participation widened, the share of over-leveraged borrowers[12] originations increased from 5% in FY 2017 to 18% in FY 2024 before moderating to 15% in FY 2026. The study noted that industry action helped stem the increase over the last two years. Higher leverage was largely concentrated among high-momentum demographic groups such as younger consumers.

While expansion of the borrower base has led to wide credit penetration in the last nine years, rise in credit awareness has added depth to the credit landscape. From nearly non-existent credit monitoring in March 2018, the proportion of credit-active consumers who monitor their credit saw a big jump to 35% in March 2026[13]. The share of credit-experienced consumers[14], i.e., those with a longer credit history, increased from 38% to 54%.

Among the biggest findings of the study is the changing geographic credit inclusion map of India. A state-wise analysis of credit uptake reveals that growth in northern and central India has outpaced that of western and southern India between 2017 and 2026. Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, seen as traditional strongholds of credit uptake, remained among the country’s largest credit markets, although their respective shares moderated from 12% to 10% and from 11% to 9%. On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh increased its contribution from 8% in March 2017 to 11% in March 2026, Madhya Pradesh rose from 4% to 6%, Bihar from 3% to 5%, and West Bengal from 4% to 5%.

“Two factors have led to the strong growth of credit in India in the last decade – greater demographic diversity and credit awareness. The former has enabled expansion of the borrower base by bringing in newer demographic segments into the credit fold. The latter has added depth by allowing consumers to remain there and use credit as a means to fulfil life goals. Women are clearly becoming more financially aware, engaged, and driving sustainable inclusion. Thanks to digitization and heightened credit awareness, credit maturity among women borrowers has been impressive. For younger borrowers, mobile phones rather than two-wheelers and vehicles appear to be products of choice, as this mobile phone-native generation sees them as productivity tools.

“What also stands out is how India’s state-wise credit heatmap has undergone a gradual but clear shift. While the traditionally dominant states in west and south India continue their strong credit uptake, states in north and central India have seen a remarkable rise in credit participation. Our aspiration of Viksit Bharat depends in large measure on such a pan-India balance in credit growth, with more and more consumers moving from informal to formal credit”, Mr. Jain explained.

Expansion in Commercial Borrower Base Creates Further Headroom for Growth

Moving from consumer to commercial, the identified credit-eligible commercial entity base increased from 6.3 crore in March 2021 to 8.7 crore in March 2026. In the same period, the share of proprietorship and partnership-driven enterprises went up from 70% to 88%, low-risk entities[15] rose from 13% to 37% and credit-experienced entities[16] from 30% to 40%.

However, the share of entities that have accessed commercial credit declined from 50% to 41%, the credit-active share dipped from 10% to 9% and NTC also went down from 60% to 39% between quarter ended March 2021 and quarter ended March 2026. This indicates further capacity to bring eligible enterprises and medium, small and micro entrepreneurs into formal credit.

Mr. Jain added, “There are some big positives in the commercial story. The rise in proprietorships and partnerships indicates that individuals are now taking more business loans which in turn means increasing credit penetration at the grassroots level. The increase in the number of entities rated as low-risk points to the success of credit guarantee schemes in supporting borrowers. At the same time, the overall numbers suggest that the wide expansion in the MSME borrower base in the last five years has led to significant opportunity to onboard more commercial entities, especially those that are NTC, and to deepen engagement.”

“In essence, what this long-view study of India’s credit growth tells us is that the last decade was a defining one for the country. The last decade is the one in which India’s credit ecosystem came of age. If, at the start of this decade, the credit landscape was fragmented and collateral-led, then by the end of the decade, it had become diversified, data-driven, digitally enabled, and increasingly disciplined. As credit penetration and credit awareness deepened, the central question for many borrowers moved from ‘Can I access credit?’ to ‘How far can credit take me?’

“Looking ahead, there may be significant opportunities to build further on this strong period of credit expansion. By extending engagement with credit-active consumers, and tapping into new-to-credit consumers and commercial entities, our credit ecosystem can ensure balance between scale and quality of credit participation as we continue our journey of a credit-fit India” Mr. Jain concluded.

About TransUnion CIBIL

India’s pioneer credit information company, TransUnion CIBIL, ensures the credit history of each person and business entity is reliably represented.

We have developed technology and innovative solutions across core credit, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences, and personal empowerment for millions of people and MSMEs in India.

We serve the financial sector as well as commercial entities and individual consumers. Our customers in India include banks, credit institutions, NBFCs, housing finance companies, microfinance companies, telecom companies and insurance firms.

For more information visit www.transunioncibil.com   

Aurionpro Secures Additional MMRDA Order, Further Expanding Engagement In Mumbai

* For Automated Fare Collection Solution Deployment On Mumbai Metro Line 5

* This win reinforces Aurionpro's leadership in urban transit and mobility technology and further strengthens its Automated Fare Collection footprint across metro networks in India.

Aurionpro Solutions Limited (BSE: 532668) (NSE: AURIONPRO) is pleased to announce a significant order win in its Transit and Smart Mobility segment, securing an additional mandate from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to deploy its cutting-edge, end-to-end Automated Fare Collection (AFC) solution. Valued at approximately ₹50 crore, the order expands Aurionpro's existing engagement with MMRDA for Mumbai Metro Lines 4 and 4A, announced last year, and extends the deployment of its AFC system to six additional stations under Mumbai Metro Line 5 – Phase I.

MMRDA is developing one of India's largest metro rail networks, transforming urban mobility and enhancing connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Aurionpro is proud to partner in this landmark initiative by delivering its cutting-edge AFC solution and proven execution capabilities, enabling seamless ticketing, efficient fare management, and an enhanced passenger experience.

Commenting on the order, Sanjay Bali, President – Technology Innovation Group (TIG), Aurionpro Solutions, said:

"We are grateful to MMRDA for once again placing its trust in Aurionpro and extending our engagement. This order is a strong endorsement of our technology capabilities, execution excellence, and commitment to delivering world-class transit solutions. As metro networks continue to expand across India and globally, Aurionpro is steadily strengthening its position as a preferred technology partner for mass transit operators. Backed by a robust portfolio of next-generation mobility solutions and a strong market opportunity, we are well-positioned to accelerate our growth and expand our presence in both domestic and international markets."

About Aurionpro Solutions: Aurionpro Solutions Ltd. (BSE: 532668 | NSE: AURIONPRO) is a global enterprise technology leader pioneering intuitive-tech through deep-tech IPs and scalable products. With a strong presence across Banking, Payments, Mobility, Insurance, Transit, Data Centers, and Government Sectors, Aurionpro is setting new benchmarks for AI innovation and impact. Its B2E (Business-to-Ecosystem) approach empowers entire ecosystems – driving growth, transformation, and scale across interconnected value chains. Backed by 3,000+ experts and a global-first mindset, Aurionpro is built to lead the next. For more information, visit us at www.aurionpro.com.  

Star Health Strengthens Virtual Doctor Consultations And Home Health Care In Karnataka

* Policyholders can call ‘Talk to Star’ at 7200 222 333 for Home Health Care and planned hospitalisation support.

* Non-policyholders can access free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultations through the Star Health Customer app.

 

Quick media bites for Karnataka ·       In Karnataka, Star Health recorded a 3X increase in Home Health Care utilisation for fever and infectious diseases in FY26 compared with the previous year. ·       Telemedicine and Virtual Doctor Consultations are seeing strong adoption, with more customers choosing them as their first point of medical consultation. ·       Policyholders can ‘Talk to Star’ at 7200 222 333; press 1 for Home Health Care and 2 for planned hospitalisation. ·       Non-policyholders can access free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultations through the Star Health Customer app.

 

As Karnataka gears up for the monsoon season, when dengue, malaria, fever and other infectious diseases typically rise, Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH; BSE: 543412), one of India’s leading standalone health insurance companies, is stepping up its monsoon healthcare outreach in the state. Star Health’s FY26 Karnataka data shows a 3X increase in Home Health Care utilisation for fever and infectious diseases. Alongside this growth, the company has seen strong demand for its Virtual Doctor Consultation service across the state, with a growing number of customers choosing it as their first point of medical consultation.

Karnataka recorded a 3X increase in Home Health Care utilisation in FY26 compared with FY25. The state saw the highest number of Home Health Care cases for dengue, viral fever and lower respiratory tract infection.

The outreach focuses on early investigation and timely medical advice by connecting policyholders to ‘Talk to Star’ and Home Health Care support, while enabling the general public to access free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultations through the Star Health Customer app.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Aditya Omprakash Biyani, Business Head, Karnataka, Star Health Insurance, said:

“Behind every monsoon infection is a family managing uncertainty, disrupted routines and concern for a loved one. The threefold rise in Home Health Care utilisation in Karnataka during FY26 shows the growing need for timely support that is easier to access, particularly for children, senior citizens and patients who may find hospital visits difficult. Our responsibility goes beyond arranging treatment. We want patients and caregivers to feel informed, supported and confident about the next step in their care. Through ‘Talk to Star’, policyholders can receive guidance on Home Health Care or planned hospitalisation, while the public can access free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultations through the Star Health Customer app. Our focus this monsoon is to help people seek advice early, receive appropriate care and recover with less stress and disruption.”

Lower costs and rain-ready care: The case for Home Health Care

Data from the National Statistical Office’s 80th round survey on household health expenditure, released in 2026, highlights the financial burden of illness and hospitalisation on households. Private hospitalisation costs an average of ₹50,573 in rural Karnataka and ₹56,930 in urban Karnataka. Healthcare expenses remain high across the board, leaving many individuals and families to cover these costs out of pocket.

The initiative brings together three timely service interventions for the monsoon season:

Unlimited teleconsultations for policyholders: Policyholders can access unlimited teleconsultations during the policy period, encouraging timely medical advice at the first sign of fever or infection.

‘Talk to Star’ for policyholders: Policyholders can call 7200 222 333 for guided support. Press 1 for Home Health Care and 2 for planned hospitalisation. The service helps customers understand care pathways, cashless processes, network hospital options and documents to keep ready.

Cashless Home Health Care: For eligible policyholders whose conditions can be managed at home under medical supervision, Star Health covers doctor-prescribed home treatment. This may include professional nursing care, routine blood tests and monitoring, IV fluids and injections delivered at the patient’s home.

Free Virtual Doctor Consultation for the general public:

For non-policyholders and members of the general public, access is available through the Star Health Customer app, where users can book a free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultation for common monsoon symptoms.

To access the service, users can:

1. Download the Star Health Customer app on a smartphone.

2. Sign up with basic details, including name, email ID and date of birth, to access available health benefits.

3. Open the menu and select ‘Telemedicine’ within the app.

4. Book a free online consultation with experienced doctors across relevant specialties.

As part of the outreach, Star Health is encouraging households across the region, especially those with school-going children and senior citizens, to follow a monsoon-first health protocol: do not ignore persistent fever, seek early medical advice and choose the right access route.

About Star Health and Allied Insurance: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH; BSE: 543412), one of India’s leading standalone health insurance companies, commenced operations in 2006 as India’s first standalone health insurance company. Star Health provides Health, Personal Accident and Travel Insurance to its customers. The Company has grown to emerge as one of the preferred health insurance companies in India with several pioneering products and services to its credit. With customer-centricity at its core, the Company has developed superior and innovative product offerings, service capabilities and a seamless claims management process. Star Health offers tailor-made products to cater to needs such as cancer, diabetes and cardiac illnesses, as well as specific segments such as senior citizens, women and children. Star Health is India’s first health insurance company to settle over 1 crore claims.

Star Health and Allied Insurance Co. Ltd. has a strong multi-channel distribution network of 900+ offices, over 8 lakh agents and robust bancassurance and financial institution partners. The Company has 15,000+ network hospitals and 18,500+ employees.

Talk to Star: Helping policyholders plan care with confidence: Star Health offers guided support through 7200 222 333 for eligible policyholders seeking Home Health Care or planned hospitalisation assistance. Customers can call the number and press 1 for Home Health Care or press 2 for planned hospitalisation. The service helps customers understand coverage, network hospital options, the cashless process, required documents and care pathways before admission or home-based treatment. Non-policyholders can access free 24/7 Virtual Doctor Consultations through the Star Health Customer app.  

Teach For India Opens Door To ‘Something Bigger’

* Applications for the Teach For India 2027 Fellowship open on 1st August 2026 – an entry point into India's movement for educational equity.

Teach For India has opened applications for its 2027 Fellowship on 1st August. The two-year, full-time, paid teaching fellowship program is a call to become part of a nationwide movement of leaders working towards the day every child in India receives an excellent and equitable education. At the heart of this year's invitation is a simple idea — an opportunity to be a part of something bigger, more meaningful and something that can drive measurable change in the Education sector.

Each year the Fellowship recruits ~ 600 extraordinary candidates from a diverse pool of talent across 500+ colleges and 300+ companies. The Fellowship application process is rigorous and thoughtfully designed to identify and bring forward India's brightest and most promising individuals to this movement. The selected cohort is supported with extensive training and knowledge by experts to deliver high-quality, holistic education to children studying in low-income schools. Fellows are placed in schools in one of the 9 cities to teach, mentor and develop students, equipping them with the skills and confidence to shape their own futures.

The 2 years give Fellows an opportunity to understand and explore ways to navigate the country's deepest inequities in the education landscape, and a chance to work alongside students, partners, and key influencers to drive real change. Today, more than 1,000 Fellows teach over 32,000 students directly in classrooms across nine cities. Over 5,000 Alumni have gone on to establish or co-create more than 160 social-impact organisations, and together are able to consistently reach 50 million children across India.

Apply for the Teach For India Fellowship 2027| Know More about the Fellowship

About Teach For India

Teach For India is a nationwide movement running immersive programs that build and boost leaders working towards solving the educational inequity in our country. TFI’s programs cater to diverse stakeholders in the eco-system including teachers, entrepreneurs, youth leaders, student communities, Government partners and grassroot NGOs. Over the coming decade, the movement aspires to develop 50,000 powerful leaders who can collectively transform the lives of one in ten children from low income communities.  

Star Health Reports PAT Of ₹ 550 Crores In Q1 FY27, Up 25% YoY

* Underwriting Profit Increases Sharply To ₹ 111 Crores, Compared To ₹ 16 Crores In Q1 FY26

Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (“Star Health”), India’s largest standalone health insurer, today announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 (Q1 FY27). Under Ind AS Accounting Standards, the Company posted Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹ 550 Crores, an increase of 25% YoY, driven by healthy premium growth, disciplined underwriting and sustained operating efficiencies. Underwriting Profit for Q1 FY27 was ₹ 111 Crores, compared to ₹ 16 Crores for Q1 FY26.

The Company recorded Gross Written Premium (GWP) of ₹ 4,287 Crores during Q1 FY27, representing a growth of 19% YoY on Reported 1/N basis. On the same basis, Fresh Retail Health GWP for the quarter stood at ₹ 730 Crores, a 37% YoY increase.

Performance highlights for Q1 FY27

Business Performance

GWP (Reported 1/N basis) increased 19% YoY to ₹ 4,287 Crores

Retail Health fresh GWP (Reported 1/N basis) increased 37% YoY to ₹ 730 Crores

Financial Performance (Ind AS)

Underwriting Profit: ₹ 111 Crores (6x YoY growth | Q1 FY26: ₹ 16 Crores)

Profit After Tax (PAT): ₹ 550 Crores (25% YoY growth | Q1 FY26: ₹ 438 Crores)

Combined Insurance Service Ratio (CISR): 97.0% (improvement of 1.7% over 98.7% in
Q1 FY26)

The Company reports “Normalised PAT”, pegged at normalised investment yield (annualised) of 8%, to report profitability insulated from short-term mark-to-market volatility. Normalised PAT increased 44% YoY from ₹ 267 Crores in Q1 FY26 to ₹ 386 Crores in Q1 FY27.

Claims Excellence & Customer Trust

Star Health settled 9.6 lakh claims during Q1 FY27

Retail Claims Settlement Ratio improved by 1% and moved to 91% for Q1 FY27

Persistency improved by 3% YoY to 102%

Company Net Promoter Score (NPS) improved by 12 points and stands at 65 as on June 2026

Digital First approach

Digital continued to be a key growth and operating lever for the Company during Q1 FY27. During the quarter, the Company’s proprietary digital D2C Channel contributed 16% of fresh retail sales, with a YoY growth of 142%.

97% of fresh policies were sourced digitally, reflecting digital adoption at scale for a granular retail distribution franchise. The Company also strengthened its technology-led capabilities through ATOM PRO, its AI-enabled digital platform for business acquisition, which continued to witness increasing adoption. Designed as an end-to-end productivity platform, ATOM PRO enables advisors with intelligent product recommendations, instant quotations, policy comparisons, network hospital search, business dashboards and other digital servicing capabilities, helping improve customer engagement and advisor productivity. ATOM Pro was recognized by The Economic Times in the BFSI FinNext Awards 2026, under “InsurTech Product Excellence of the Year”.

The Star Health Customer App also continued to witness strong traction, with 14.7 million downloads and over 1.5 million monthly active users, and increasing adoption of self-service capabilities- such as, digital renewals, and claims submissions and wellness initiatives.

Artificial intelligence use cases are being deployed across the value-chain with dedicated management focus on measurable outcomes. Claims operations, for example, have been strengthened by an AI-ML analytics layer designed to enhanced precision and efficiency. The Company is now in the process of layering Generative AI capabilities to further improve outcomes. In-house capabilities on AI have been strengthened through global technology partnerships.

Distribution Strength

Star Health's robust distribution network and service infrastructure continued to support its growth momentum during Q1 FY27. As of June 30, 2026, the Company had a multi-channel distribution network comprising 900+ branch offices, 8.5 lakh+ agents, 16,000+ network hospitals, and 18,500+ employees. These capabilities, complemented by the Company's continued investments in technology, digital enablement, and customer service, position Star Health strongly to drive sustainable growth and expand quality health insurance access across the country.

CEO Commentary

Commenting on the performance of the Company, Mr. Anand Roy, CEO & Managing Director, Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited, said:

“Our performance in the first quarter reflects the strength of our fundamentals and the consistency of our execution. Sustainable growth, driving improvement in core underwriting profitability, and sustained operating discipline have enabled us to deliver a strong start to the year. We remain focused on expanding health insurance access across the country while maintaining prudent risk selection and delivering superior customer experience. Investments in digital capabilities, AI-led innovation, and distribution network continue to strengthen our ability to serve customers more efficiently and at scale. As health insurance adoption deepens in India, we remain committed to building a resilient, digital-first organisation that creates long-term value for our policyholders and shareholders."

About Star Health and Allied Insurance: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (NSE: STARHEALTH; BSE: 543412), one of India’s leading standalone health insurance companies, commenced operations in 2006 as India’s first standalone health insurance company. Star Health provides Health, Personal Accident and Travel Insurance to its customers. The Company has grown to emerge as one of the preferred health insurance companies in India with several pioneering products and services to its credit. With customer-centricity at its core, the Company has developed superior and innovative product offerings, service capabilities and a seamless claims management process. Star Health offers tailor-made products to cater to needs such as cancer, diabetes and cardiac illnesses, as well as specific segments such as senior citizens, women and children. Star Health is India’s first health insurance company to settle over 1 crore claims.

Star Health and Allied Insurance Co. Ltd. has a strong multi-channel distribution network of 900+ offices, over 8.5 lakh+ agents and robust bancassurance and financial institution partners. The Company has 16,000+ network hospitals and 18,500+ employees.

Talk to Star: helping policyholders plan care with confidence: Star Health offers guided support through 7200 222 333 for eligible policyholders seeking Home Healthcare or planned hospitalisation assistance. Customers can call the number and press 1 for Home Healthcare or press 2 for planned hospitalisation. The service helps customers understand coverage, network hospital options, the cashless process, required documents and care pathways before admission or home-based treatment. Non-policyholders can access free 24/7 Virtual OPD consultations through the Star Health Customer app.

After A Landmark Sold-Out Keinemusik India Debut, Adam Port Returns For A Three-City India Tour This November

* Following unforgettable performances at Coachella, Burning Man, the Giza Pyramids and more, Adam Port returns to India for a three-city run across Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru~

* FAMFAM Pre-Sale goes live at 5:30 PM IST on Wednesday, July 29th and General On-Sale of tickets goes live at 5:30 PM IST on Thursday, July 30th exclusively on BookMyShow ~

Building on the phenomenal response to Keinemusik’s sold-out India debut, Sunburn is set to welcome back Adam Port, one of electronic music’s most influential artists and a founding member of the globally acclaimed Berlin-based collective. This November, the celebrated DJ and producer will embark on the Keinemusik presents Adam Port India Tour, bringing his signature fusion of deep house, techno and Afro-house to audiences in Delhi on November 13th, Kolkata on November 14th and Bengaluru on November 15th, 2026. Renowned for his genre-defying sound and captivating live sets, Adam Port’s return marks another milestone in India’s growing appetite for world-class electronic music experiences.

FAMFAM Pre-Sale goes live at 5:30 PM IST on Wednesday, July 29th followed by the General On-Sale of tickets at 5:30 PM IST on Thursday, July 30th exclusively on BookMyShow.

Known for producing some of the most influential electronic records in recent years, fans can expect a high-energy journey through Adam Port's biggest releases, including 'Move,' 'Positions,' 'Be The One,' 'Say What,' 'Thandaza,' 'Muyè,' 'Confusion,' alongside his celebrated remixes such as 'Houdini - Adam Port Mix,' 'Your Voice- Adam Port Remix' and 'Senhor Doutor - Adam Port Edit.' Every set promises a seamless blend of powerful rhythms, soaring melodies and infectious grooves that have become synonymous with the Keinemusik sound.

Karan Singh, CEO, Sunburn, said, "Keinemusik's India debut proved that the country's electronic music audience isn't just growing in size, it's becoming more discerning in what it seeks out. The overwhelming response showed us that fans are following the artists behind the collective just as passionately as the brand itself. Adam Port was one of the standout moments from that experience and the demand to see him return was impossible to ignore. This three-city tour is our way of building on that momentum, giving fans a deeper, more intimate experience while expanding access beyond a single market. It's another step in strengthening India's position on the global electronic music touring map."

Adam Port is widely recognised for his distinctive blend of house and Afro-house, which has earned him a devoted global following. As a founding member of Keinemusik, he has helped shape some of the most influential sounds in contemporary electronic music, with chart-topping releases and acclaimed performances at major festivals and venues worldwide.

Sunburn, known for bringing the world's biggest electronic music artists to India, continues to elevate the live music landscape with world-class production, immersive experiences and unforgettable performances.

Keinemusik presents Adam Port India Tour is produced and promoted by Sunburn, co-presented by RuPay and driven by Hyundai.

Stay tuned on BookMyShow and Sunburn’s official handles for more details on upcoming shows:

Instagram: @sunburnfestival

X (Formerly Twitter): @SunburnFestival

Facebook: @SunburnFestival

Website: https://sunburn.in/

About Sunburn:

Sunburn, is Asia’s Premiere Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Festival and is ranked amongst the world’s biggest music festivals. Started in 2007 as a 3-day music festival, Sunburn has grown to become an aspirational lifestyle brand boasting an eclectic mix of music, entertainment, experiences and celebration that has seeded music tourism in India. Over the past 18 years, Sunburn has brought together renowned International and Indian artists to entertain hundreds of thousands of dance music lovers across the country and overseas and positioned India as a prime dance festival destination to the world.

The Sunburn Festival, Sunburn Reload, Sunburn Arena and Sunburn Campus formats have enabled a wide geographical and demographic reach pan India and abroad. Sunburn has the distinction of having brought down to India the world’s top 10 DJs, including Swedish House Mafia, Martin Garrix, Tiesto, Avicii, Hardwell, Deadmau5, Armin van Buuren, David Guetta, Afrojack, Above & Beyond, The Chainsmokers, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Marshmello, Paul Van Dyk, Skazi, Pete Tong, Dash Berlin, and Nicky Romero. Sunburn has also made its successful debut overseas across Colombo, Sri Lanka; Kathmandu, Nepal; Dubai; Muscat; and Melbourne, Australia, thereby creating history to become the first successful indigenous Music IP to cross international shores. Sunburn secured the #8 spot on DJ Mag’s prestigious 'Top 100 Festivals in 2025' list alongside top music festivals globally. Sunburn is ranked as big as Tomorrowland and Ultra Miami festival as per the IMS APAC Business Report 2014 and has won numerous awards and accolades around the globe including the WOW Awards, BW Applause Awards and Palm Expo Awards.