RBL Bank Launches ‘Humsafar’ RuPay Prepaid Card At Global Fintech Fest 2025

• RuPay On-The-Go NCMC enabled with Tap & Pay features

• Seamless loading and usage across Travel, Food, Fuel, Entertainment and More

RBL Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has launched its new RuPay prepaid card ‘Humsafar’ at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) in Mumbai.

 

The National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) enablement will streamline public transportation across cities in India. Customers can conveniently load their ‘Humsafar’ Prepaid Card instantly and securely. Humsafar enables seamless payments across travel, food, fuel, shopping, entertainment, and more – all through one easy-to-use prepaid solution.

 

With this launch, RBL Bank aims to provide a smarter and more secure way to manage daily expenses, while giving customers the freedom to control and track their spending effectively.

 

Key Benefits of the Humsafar RuPay Prepaid Card:

• Smooth Travel Experience: Customers can skip long queues at metros and buses

• Seamless Transactions: Enabled through RuPay’s secure and robust infrastructure.

• Smart Spending: Customers can pre-load the card with a desired amount and enjoy hassle-free transactions without the need to carry multiple cards or cash.

• Enhanced Control: Better visibility of expenses and budget management through prepaid functionality.

Speaking on the launch, Ravi Pichan, CIO & Head – Digital Banking, RBL Bank, said, “With the increasing adoption of digital payments in India, customers today are seeking simple, secure, and versatile solutions for their daily expenses. The Humsafar prepaid card has been designed to address this need, allowing users to manage travel, food, fuel, and shopping expenses conveniently with a single card. Through this launch, we aim to strengthen our prepaid offerings and bring greater flexibility and control to our customers’ everyday transactions.”

 

Commenting on the launch, Sohini Rajola, Executive Director, NPCI said, “NPCI has always been at the forefront of driving interoperable, inclusive, and secure digital payment solutions in India. The launch of RBL Bank’s ‘Humsafar’ RuPay On-The-Go Prepaid Card, enabled with NCMC functionality, is another step towards creating a seamless and connected payment experience for consumers across mobility and everyday spends. As digital transactions continue to evolve, such innovations play a key role in advancing India’s vision of a cashless and connected ecosystem, making payments simpler, faster, and more accessible for all.”

The launch of Humsafar further strengthens RBL Bank’s retail offerings and reiterates its commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric payment solutions for India’s growing digital-first consumers.

AIFI Positions India As A Global Forging Powerhouse At The 24th International Forging Congress In Frankfurt

The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) prominently showcased India's industrial prowess at the 24th International Forging Congress (IFC 2025) in Frankfurt, Germany. Representing the nation's robust forging sector, AIFI President Mr Yash J. Munot delivered a keynote presentation detailing India's advanced manufacturing capabilities, technological advancements, and a strategic vision for global partnerships. Addressing a distinguished gathering of global industry leaders, Mr. Munot underscored India's standing as the world's second-largest producer of forgings and its position as an indispensable partner in the global supply chain. 

In his keynote address titled “Forging India’s Future – Partnering with the World,” Mr. Yash Munot presented India’s forging journey as one of rapid modernisation, global integration and sustainable growth. He highlighted India’s emergence as the world’s second-largest producer of forgings, driven by a robust industrial base, a highly skilled workforce, and a future-ready ecosystem. Mr. Munot said, "India has transformed from being a land of opportunity to a land of action. The forging industry stands as a true reflection of this transformation, built on the pillars of scale, skill, and sustainability and ready to co-author the future of global manufacturing. We have evolved from a labour-intensive past to a capital-intensive, technology-driven present, powered by significant investments in Industry 4.0, AI, automation and smart manufacturing practices. In an era shaped by geopolitical shifts, fluctuating material costs and the global call for sustainability, India’s forging industry offers reliability, quality, and resilience. We are not here merely as suppliers, but as partners and collaborators, committed to forging a stronger, more innovative and sustainable industrial future for the world”.

India’s forging industry currently produces 2.9 million metric tonnes annually, with an installed capacity of 4.8 million MT, representing investments worth USD 3.8 billion and providing direct employment to over 300,000 people. The industry caters to both domestic and international markets, supplying critical components to sectors including automotive, railways, aerospace, defense, construction equipment and general engineering. Around 30% of total production is exported to markets across Europe, North America, and Asia, reinforcing India’s role as a trusted global partner.

The industry’s evolution is marked by the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, digital simulation and data analytics, making Indian forging more competitive, efficient, and sustainable. The focus on energy-efficient furnaces, renewable integration, and circular manufacturing further reflects the sector’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Mr. Munot also highlighted AIFI’s key initiatives to enhance industry capability and global competitiveness. A major milestone is the upcoming Forging Simulation Centre in Pune, designed to help especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs) improve productivity, optimize processes, and minimize environmental impact through digital and simulation technologies.

Reinforcing India’s global engagement, Mr. Munot announced the 4th edition of Forgetech India, AIFI’s flagship biennial exhibition and conference, scheduled for October 2026. The event will serve as a powerful platform for international collaboration, technology exchange and knowledge sharing, bringing together stakeholders from across the global forging community.

Soothe And Help Protect Your Baby’s Sensitive Skin With Aveeno Baby Dermexa Range

 ~ Skincare products formulated with Prebiotic Oat Complex and Ceramides to help relieve very dry, itchy, eczema-prone baby skin ~

-Colloidal oatmeal-based emollients are the cornerstone for managing Atopic Dermatitis

 

A baby’s skin barrier is still maturing during infancy, making it more vulnerable to moisture loss, dryness, irritation, and flare-ups of eczema. Infant skin is approximately 20-30% thinner than adult skin and has an immature acid mantle and fewer protective lipids. A compromised barrier function leaves the skin susceptible to external irritants, causing redness, dryness, and itchiness, especially in babies with eczema-prone or sensitive skin .

 

Causes of Eczema

Conditions like Atopic Dermatitis, which is the most common form of Eczema, occurs in genetically predisposed children with impaired epidermal barrier function and immune dysregulation. Changes in weather, such as cold, dry air during winter, over-bathing or using hot water, dust mites, pet dander, certain fabrics, or harsh soaps and detergents can further irritate the skin and trigger flare-ups.

 

Sensitive skin conditions on the rise

Over the last decade, the prevalence of sensitive skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis (AD), eczema Xerosis, and Diaper Dermatitis in Indian children have increased owing to urbanization, pollution, and climate changes, including rising temperatures and humidity. According to a recent Indian expert consensus with inputs by IAP, Indian children suffering from AD has increased ranging between 20-39%.[2] 60% (approx.) of children with AD develop symptoms within the first year of life, and 90% show signs by the age of five.   

 

Yet, there is lack of awareness around preventive strategies as well as myths around effective management of sensitive skin conditions which results in delayed care and prolonged discomfort for babies. This Eczema Awareness Month (observed in October), it is important to strengthen awareness about sensitive skin conditions and the highlight the role of colloidal oatmeal-based skincare practices to prevent and better manage such conditions. 

 

Sensitive skin needs special care: Power of Oat for sensitive skin

The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) guidelines advocate for emollients containing ceramides, lipids, n-palmitoyl ethanolamine, and natural colloidal oatmeal.  Oat is a leading, multi-benefit skin ingredient ideal for sensitive skin. Oat contain proteins, vitamins B and E and nourishing lipids that lock in moisture for rough, dry skin. Infact, colloidal oatmeal is the only OTC skin protectant indicated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for the relief of eczema

 

Kenvue, makers of Aveeno Baby released standardized consensus recommendations which reinforce the role of colloidal oat-based skincare in management of sensitive skin in children. With expert inputs and review by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), the consensus panel emphasized the therapeutic benefits of moisturizers containing colloidal oatmeal for the management of sensitive skin conditions

 

Enriched with the goodness of oats, Aveeno Baby Dermexa Wash and Cream are developed with Dermatologists and Pediatricians to bring advanced daily care for very dry, irritated, and eczema-prone baby skin. Powered by Prebiotic Triple Oat Complex (Oat Extract, Oat Flour & Oat Oil) and Ceramides, the range works to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier while restoring moisture balance. Both products are clinically tested, fragrance-free, and suitable for newborns and sensitive skin conditions.

Aveeno Baby Dermexa Moisturizing Wash (236ml)

·         Gently cleanses without disrupting skin’s natural barrier

·         Contains Prebiotic Oat Complex to soothe dryness while cleansing

·         Soap-free, tear-free, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free

·         Suitable for daily use on eczema-prone, sensitive baby skin

Aveeno Baby Dermexa Moisturising Cream (206g, 100g)

·         Provides 24-hour intense hydration to relieve dryness and itching

·         Enriched with Ceramides to help restore and strengthen skin barrier

·         Clinically proven to reduce flare-ups of very dry, eczema-prone skin

·         Non-greasy, fast-absorbing, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free

Why Choose Aveeno Baby Dermexa for Your Baby’s Sensitive Skin

·         Dermatologist and Pediatrician tested for safety and efficacy

·         Clinically proven to soothe very dry, itchy, eczema-prone baby skin

·         Combines natural oat science with ceramides for optimal barrier repair

·         Free from fragrance, parabens, dyes, and alcohol to minimize risk of irritation

·         Gentle enough for daily use, effective enough to provide lasting relief

Whether facing the dry heat of winter or the dampness of the monsoon, the Aveeno Baby Dermexa range offers gentle yet effective care that keeps your baby’s skin hydrated, smooth, and irritation-free. Choose Aveeno Baby for comfort and protection, and let your little one enjoy soft, nourished skin every day.

Celio Expands Presence In Karnataka With First-Ever Store In Hubballi

Celio, the premium French menswear brand, proudly announces the launch of its first-ever store in Hubballi. Located at Inorbit Mall, the store was inaugurated by renowned Kannada actor Sri Murali, reinforcing the brand’s strong retail footprint in the state.

This landmark opening marks Celio’s 11th store in Karnataka, making it the state with the highest number of Celio outlets in India.. The expansion reflects the brand’s commitment to bringing global menswear trends closer to Indian shoppers.

The new Hubballi store offers Celio’s signature range of Parisian-inspired fashion, including sharp casualwear, 100% Linen collection, versatile formals, trend-forward denims, and accessories. With its sleek layout, curated product zones, and welcoming design, the store has been envisioned as a space where modern men can discover wardrobe essentials that seamlessly balance comfort, sophistication, and style.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Mr. Rejoy Rajan, Head of Marketing, Celio India, said:
“Hubballi is an exciting market for us, one that truly embodies the dynamism and appetite for fashion that Karnataka is known for. The state has always shown remarkable acceptance of Celio, and with eleven stores here, it stands as our strongest market in India. Hubballi with its evolving urban culture and strong customer demand, was a natural choice for expansion. Through this store, we want to make Parisian fashion more accessible and inspire more men to embrace effortless style every day.”

Adding to the excitement, Sri Murali, celebrated Kannada actor and style icon, expressed:
“I’m really excited to welcome Celio to Hubballi! It’s always inspiring to see global brands recognizing the growing fashion potential of cities like ours. With Celio now opening its doors here, people of Hubballi can experience the essence of French fashion — effortless style, premium quality, and modern designs — all under one roof”

With this new launch, Celio continues its mission of expanding its retail network across India and creating immersive shopping experiences tailored to the modern Indian man. Hubballi marks yet another milestone in the brand’s journey of blending global style with everyday wearability.

Address:  Celio Retail Pvt. Ltd., Unit 21, Ground Floor, Inorbit Mall, Gokul Road, Hubballi - 580 030

Comfort Is The New Luxury: Marriott International Unveils Asia Pacific's Culinary Future

Marriott International’s Future of Food 2026 reveals how a shift towards comfort-driven luxury and experiences rooted in local culinary traditions are redefining a new era of indulgence

Marriott International has unveiled its latest report, The Future of Food 2026, which explores how dining habits and preferences are changing across the Asia Pacific region. The comprehensive study spotlights major trends reshaping the culinary landscape, including a shift away from traditional fine dining toward casual luxury, comfort-driven menus, immersive dining experiences and a renewed reverence for local flavors. Diners are increasingly prioritizing relaxed, personalized encounters where storytelling, entertainment, and thoughtful design are just as important as the food itself.

 

Drawing on insights from over 30 influential chefs, mixologists, industry insiders and regional food media, along with findings from Marriott’s inaugural regional survey of F&B teams in 270 properties across 20 Asia Pacific markets, the report explores how these emerging trends are redefining hospitality and guest expectations.

 

“The Future of Food 2026 showcases how Asia Pacific continues to shape the future of global dining,” says Petr Raba, Vice President of Food & Beverage, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “From the rise of casual luxury to experience-focused dining, today’s guests are seeking emotional connection as much as culinary excellence. This report reflects our ongoing commitment to evolving with the industry and delivering dining experiences that are culturally relevant, rooted in place, and reimagined for a new generation of travelers.”

 

He added, “Across Asia, a new culinary language is emerging, one where quality meets comfort, luxury meets experience, and a meal is no longer just about eating, but about engaging all the senses. As our report shows, food is no longer just fuel; it’s a form of storytelling, identity, and cultural connection.”

 

Key Trends Shaping the Future of Food

1. Comfort is the New Luxury

A new era of dining is emerging with the rise of "fine-casual" where comfort food meets creative refinement. From elevated takes on beloved classics, such as caviar-topped fried chicken, to à la carte menus offering more choice and personality, chefs from Singapore to Tokyo are embracing a more relaxed yet luxurious approach. As diners crave familiarity with a twist, high-profile chefs are reimagining everyday favorites with fine-dining finesse, creativity, and visual appeal. Traditional multi-course menus are giving way to faster, more flexible experiences. 59% of Marriott International properties surveyed across Asia Pacific said guests are opting for casual dining experiences over formal ones compared to last year.

2. Dining Becomes a Sensory Journey  

Throughout Asia, dining is turning into a feast for all the senses, with guests choosing to dine in the dark or indulge in edible art. Nearly half (48%) of Marriott International F&B associates report an increase in guests seeking interactive dining experiences compared to the previous year. From omakase journeys to themed environments, restaurants are embracing interactivity and theatricality to create immersive, multisensory experiences. As the lines between retail, hospitality, and entertainment continue to blur, food is becoming a powerful vehicle for identity and creative expression.

3. Plating Up Native Ingredients

Chefs are embracing indigenous ingredients as integral components of their culinary identity, drawing on heritage and personal expression. There’s a growing emphasis on sourcing local, foraged and often forgotten ingredients to tell richer, more authentic food stories. Among the Marriott International properties surveyed in Asia Pacific, 85% now incorporate locally sourced ingredients or dishes into their offerings, signaling a growing appetite for seasonal food.

4. AI Takes a Byte of the Industry

As AI becomes more embedded into the hospitality industry, it promises greater efficiency and highly personalized dining experiences. Advancements in technology will drive AI-powered menu engineering, leveraging real-time feedback and to optimize dish combinations and pricing. Of the Marriott International properties surveyed across Asia Pacific, 76% are adopting booking management technologies, while 75% report that social media influences guest decisions around restaurant and bar bookings. While operators embrace these tools to automate tasks and enhance service, a key challenge remains in maintaining the human connection that defines true hospitality.

5. Asia’s Culinary Hotspots

Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Mainland China are gaining international recognition for their vibrant and diverse food cultures. The report explores how these destinations are stepping onto the global culinary stage with renewed confidence and creativity.

6. Third-Generation Asian Chefs Stir the Pot

Trained in Michelin-starred kitchens, a new wave of third-generation chefs is revolutionizing Asian cuisines. Acting as cultural ambassadors, they employ modern cooking techniques and engage with native ingredients to elevate and refine the cuisine. They are not just cooking; they are preserving heritage while charting a new course, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously on the plate. This creative spirit extends to street vendors – or ‘hawkerpreneurs’ – who are adding luxe to laksa and sass to satays. 

 

Additional Report Highlights:

 

• The Flavor Spectrum: Survey results reveal a preference for both classic cocktails and modern, regionally-inspired mixes. The data also indicates a clear trend toward healthier eating. Across the Asia Pacific, Marriott International’s F&B associates are noticing guests increasingly seeking vegan (63%), vegetarian (64%), and gluten-free (54%) options. In addition, classic condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, hot sauce, and soy sauce remain popular across most markets.

• Raising the Bar: Bars throughout Asia are redefining the drinking experience, catering to a generation that values wellness, personalization, and immersive environments. From low- or no-alcohol menus to omakase-style cocktails, venues are moving beyond traditional drink service and attracting kindred spirits. Cocktail bars are also shaking up the scene, spilling the tea and spicing up flavors with native ingredients or a dash of Dashi. 

• The Future Larder: Bold new ingredients and long-forgotten favorites are driving a new era in Asian cuisine. From fermented condiments to artisanal salts and heritage vinegars, chefs are diving into traditional ingredients to create bold, sustainable flavors with deep cultural significance.

• Sustainability Pioneers: Local heroes are driving sustainable food movements in Asia by empowering local farmers and promoting biodiversity through social enterprises. Their grassroots campaign is inspiring a cultural shift in the hospitality industry and influencing the future of the region’s wider food ecosystem.

Croma Opens In Kadugodi, Bengaluru — Enjoy Up To 10% Off* On TVs, ACs & More!

Croma, India’s trusted omni-channel electronics retailer from the Tata Group, proudly unveils its newest store in Kadugodi, Bengaluru, further strengthening its presence in Karnataka. With this launch, Croma now operates 55 stores across the state, including 36 in Bengaluru, reaffirming its commitment to delivering a world-class tech shopping experience to customers in the region.

 

Strategically located at Survey No. 28, Whitefield-Hoskote Main Road, SH 35, Belathur Village, Bidarahalli Hobli, Kadugodi, Bengaluru - 560067, the expansive 7,856 sq. ft. store is designed for immersive browsing and hands-on demos of the latest gadgets. The Kadugodi area is known for its proximity to Whitefield’s IT corridor, thriving residential communities, and enhanced connectivity through the Namma Metro and major highways — making it an ideal destination for professionals, families, and tech-savvy consumers.

 

Speaking about the new store, a spokesperson for Infiniti Retail Ltd said, “Karnataka has always been a high-priority market for us, and Bengaluru is one of our fastest-growing cities. With the launch of our new Kadugodi store, we are delighted to bring world-class technology even closer to our customers. At Croma, it’s not just about buying a product — it’s about experiencing technology with immersive demos, expert advice, and our trusted after-sales service. This opening reaffirms our commitment to being the first choice for every tech need of Bengaluru households. We invite all residents to enjoy our special inaugural deals and festive discounts.”

Launch Offers (Valid from 14th October to 13th November):

·         Home Appliances:

o   10% off* on select products:

§  TVs (55” & above)

§  Refrigerators (400L & above)

§  Washing Machines (≥ 9 kg)

§  Inverter/Split ACs

o   Brands: LG, Samsung, Croma 

• Digital Devices:

• 8% off* on select Android Smartphones and Windows Laptops priced above ₹50,000/-

• Brands:

• Android Smartphones – Samsung, Vivo

• Windows Laptops – HP, Lenovo, Dell

The store will be open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. For more information on products, services, and ongoing offers, please visit the new Croma store in Kadugodi, Bengaluru, or log on to www.croma.com.

 

*Offers valid on select brands, categories, and models only. Customers may avail either launch offers or festive offers; the two cannot be combined. Terms and conditions apply.

 

About Croma:

Infiniti Retail Ltd. is one of the first organised consumer durables and electronics retailers in India operating under the brand name Croma. With over 560+ stores across 200+ cities, the company continues to aggressively open new stores to expand its presence especially in suburban region of metro cities along with tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Croma offers its customers a world-class ambience to shop both in-store and staged at www.croma.com and allows for a seamless ‘omni-channel’ shopping experience that lets a customer enjoy the best of both worlds. Through its deep integration with the Tata Neu ecosystem, the products from Croma are also available on the Tata Neu app. Recently, Croma was featured among the 100 most valuable Indian brands by Brand Finance India 100 report.

Coca-Cola And Google Gemini Light Up Diwali With “Festicons” Where Tradition Meets AI Magic

This Diwali, Coca-Cola India is reimagining how India celebrates by fusing culture, creativity, and cutting-edge technology. Through a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Google, Coca-Cola has introduced Festicons Diwali greetings, enabling consumers to create and share personalized digital wishes using the Google Gemini app. 

Available on Coca-Cola’s limited-edition Utsav Packs, the initiative allows people to scan a QR code to create and share their own personalized festive avatars.right within the Gemini app using its advanced image generation capabilities. Through this innovative digital experience, Coca-Cola is giving consumers a unique way to share their festive vibe.

 

By scanning the festive pack, consumers are transported into an interactive Google Gemini experience, There, they can design their unique "Festicon" by choosing a fun, relatable festive persona that matches their own and a classic Diwali icon to customize. Leveraging its powerful image generation models, Gemini merges these selections to create a unique, shareable digital sticker. Users can download their creation and share it with friends and family, sparking a chain with the hashtag #MyFesticon.

 

Karthik Subramanian, Senior Director, Marketing, Coca-Cola Category said, “Coca-Cola has always been at the heart of India’s celebrations, and this Diwali we are delighted to offer people a new, creative way to express themselves. Our collaboration with Google for festicons comes from the simple insight that consumers want more personal and meaningful ways to celebrate. This initiative, powered by Google Gemini, weaves in AI, art and culture, reinforcing Coca-Cola’s belief that when people come together, they create lasting memories.”

 

The campaign builds on Coca-Cola’s successful activations with generative AI. Diwali Wali Magic, the brand’s previous campaign in collaboration with DALL-E enabled consumers to design personalized festive cards, an initiative that resonated strongly with households across India. With Festicons, Coca-Cola is taking this idea further by enabling real-time, interactive co-creation, making every Diwali wish as thoughtful, personal, and creative as the festival itself.

 

At its core, Coca-Cola has always stood for togetherness, connection, and celebration. Festicons serves as a  blend of the timeless warmth of a Diya with the endless possibilities of AI, once again proving that magic truly happens when tradition meets innovation.

 

About Coca-Cola India

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Thums Up XForce, Charged, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Sprite Zero, Kinley Soda, Rim Zim, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Kinley Copper, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water. Premium products constitute Schweppes’ range and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

 The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 5 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water and packaging initiatives, sustainable agriculture and emission reductions across its value chain.

 Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.