Axis Bank Brings Apple Pay To Credit Card Customers In India

* Axis Bank Credit Card customers across Mastercard and Visa networks will be able to make easy, secure and private payments with Apple Pay using their Apple devices.

Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, today brings Apple Pay to its Credit cardholders across the Mastercard and Visa networks, becoming the first Indian bank to offer Apple Pay to its customers. The launch marks a significant step in the Bank’s digital payments journey, leveraging the strength of its Credit Cards franchise and digital capabilities with Apple Pay’s easy, secure and private payment experience. Over the next few weeks, customers can make seamless payments across merchants in stores, in-apps and online using their iPhone, Apple Watch and iPad — with support for Mac coming soon — enabling greater choice, convenience and flexibility in how they transact.

Axis Bank Mastercard and Visa Credit Card customers can add their cards to Apple Wallet either through Axis Bank’s Mobile Banking App or directly through Apple Wallet. Once a customer adds a card to their Apple device, they can start using Apple Pay right away. Customers will continue to receive all the rewards and benefits offered by Axis Bank cards.

The launch further advances Axis Bank’s ambition to build a future-ready payments ecosystem. As customer preferences increasingly shift towards mobile-first, contactless and tokenised payments, the introduction of Apple Pay expands the Bank’s portfolio of digital payment solutions and broadens the ways in which customers can transact. Supported across the Mastercard and Visa networks, the offering reinforces Axis Bank’s focus on bringing relevant, technology-led innovations to customers and delivering differentiated payment propositions.

With digital transactions becoming increasingly sophisticated, security remains pivotal to Axis Bank’s payments strategy. Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay. When customers use a credit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device or on Apple servers, nor are they shared by Apple with the merchant. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip designed to store the payment information safely on the device.

Commenting on the landmark launch, Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO, Axis Bank, said, “We are at a significant inflection point in payments, where technology, intelligent security and changing customer expectations are reshaping how people transact. At Axis Bank, our aspiration is to remain at the forefront of this transformation by building payment experiences that are progressive, trusted and deeply relevant to our customers. The introduction of Apple Pay advances this ambition, bringing greater choice and flexibility to our Credit Card customers, with support across the Mastercard and Visa networks. As payments become increasingly embedded in customers’ everyday digital lives, our focus is on bringing together innovation and trust, while making every interaction more intuitive and relevant. More importantly, this reflects our vision of a more connected and sophisticated payments ecosystem, where technology enables convenience and confidence in every transaction.”

“India is home to a dynamic and digitally savvy population that continues to embrace a cashless future while expecting the highest standards of security and privacy, and we’re so excited to bring Apple Pay to users in India today,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet. “Apple Pay makes everyday payments with a card easy, secure, and private — from simply tapping to pay in stores without an extra app, PIN, or OTP to checking out online without repeatedly entering payment information.”

“India has built one of the world’s most dynamic digital payments ecosystems, and consumers increasingly expect payment experiences that are secure, seamless and embedded into their everyday lives,” said Gautam Aggarwal, President, India & South Asia, Mastercard. “The introduction of Apple Pay for Axis Bank-issued Mastercard credit cardholders ushers in a new era of secure contactless commerce, giving Indian consumers greater confidence and peace of mind with every transaction. Through Mastercard’s tokenization technology, every Apple Pay transaction is protected by a unique, cryptographically secured token, ensuring card details are never shared with merchants, safeguarding consumers against fraud.”

Suresh Sethi, Group Country Manager, India and South Asia, Visa, said, “Apple Pay's launch with Visa and Axis Bank marks a defining moment in India for digital payments. For consumers this brings together Visa's trusted global network and tokenization, Apple's intuitive experience, and Axis Bank's scale - delivering a simple, secure and seamless way to pay.

At Visa, we're committed to powering every shift that shapes the future of payments - with trusted infrastructure, global scale, and innovation that expands choice and enables the next generation of digital commerce in India." 

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Is Leading The Average Death Claim Paid To Families At ₹15 Lakh In FY2026

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance paid an average individual death claim of ₹15 lakh to families in FY2026, continuing to lead for a second consecutive year and underlining its commitment to timely financial support.

Publicly available industry data over the last six financial years indicates that the Company’s average individual death claim paid value has increased from about ₹10 lakh in FY2021 to ₹15 lakh in FY2026, with the average claim remaining consistent around ₹14-15 lakh over the last four years. As incomes, loans and family responsibilities change, these findings highlight why policyholders should periodically review their life cover to ensure it matches their evolving needs.

Mr. Sarang Gokhale, Chief - Underwriting and Retail Claims, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance, said, "Life insurance is built on a simple promise to provide financial security to families when they need it the most. In FY2026, we settled ₹ 5,149 crore of death claims. Furthermore, our claim settlement ratio of 99.3% in FY2026, with an average turnaround time of just 1.1 days for non-investigated individual claims from last document received date at the overall company level, reflects our commitment to fulfilling the promise made to our customers and their families.

We continuously simplify claim processes and offer tech-enabled servicing, so families receive the help they need without delay. We also encourage customers to review their cover regularly to make sure it reflects their changing life stages and goals.”

Notably, ICICI Prudential Life has consistently reported high claim settlement ratio over the years, honouring its commitment to pay timely claims. Policyholders seeking a review or support can visit www.iciciprulife.com or call the customer care number.

Seven Rivers Brewing Co. Celebrates 6 Years Of Craft Beer Excellence At Taj MG Road Bengaluru!

Seven Rivers Brewing Co., the acclaimed craft brewery at Taj MG Road Bengaluru, recently celebrated its 6th Anniversary, marking six years of pioneering brewing excellence, culinary innovation and memorable guest experiences in the heart of Bengaluru.

The landmark occasion was commemorated with an exclusive anniversary soirée that brought together esteemed patrons, industry leaders, corporate partners, media representatives, influencers and distinguished guests. The evening featured specially curated craft brews, gourmet culinary offerings, live entertainment and immersive experiences, reflecting the vibrant spirit and craftsmanship that define Seven Rivers Brewing Co.

Over the years, Seven Rivers Brewing Co. has established itself as one of Bengaluru's most sought-after destinations for craft beer enthusiasts and discerning diners alike. Renowned for its innovative brewing techniques, distinctive beer portfolio and contemporary dining experiences, the brewpub continues to set benchmarks within the city's dynamic food and beverage landscape while fostering a thriving community of loyal patrons.

The anniversary celebration served as a tribute to the guests, partners and team members who have been an integral part of the outlet's journey. Guests enjoyed an evening of camaraderie, signature experiences and exceptional hospitality while raising a toast to six years of innovation, creativity and memorable moments.

Commenting on the occasion, Ms. Sonali Prakashchandra, General Manager, Taj MG Road Bengaluru, said: "The sixth anniversary of Seven Rivers Brewing Co. is a celebration of the passion, creativity and dedication that have shaped its journey over the years. What makes Seven Rivers truly special is its ability to bring people together through exceptional craft beers, outstanding cuisine and memorable experiences. We are grateful to our patrons, partners and team members who have been a part of this success story, and we look forward to continuing to innovate and elevate the experience for our guests in the years to come."

As Seven Rivers Brewing Co. enters its next chapter, it remains committed to pushing the boundaries of craft brewing while creating meaningful experiences that bring people together. With a focus on innovation, quality and guest-centric hospitality, the brewery looks forward to strengthening its legacy as one of Bengaluru's most celebrated destinations for craft beer, dining and social experiences.

About Taj MG Road Bengaluru

An iconic address in the heart of the city, Taj MG Road Bengaluru seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with the timeless warmth of Indian hospitality. Overlooking the serene Ulsoor Lake, the hotel is renowned for its elegant accommodations, award-winning dining destinations, sophisticated event venues and personalised service. A preferred destination for business and leisure travellers alike, the hotel continues to create exceptional experiences through its commitment to service excellence, culinary innovation and the enduring legacy of Taj hospitality.

Sony India Unveils New 400mm And 600mm G Master™ Super-Telephoto Prime Lenses

* The World’s Lightest in Their Class

* Offering Excellent Control for Handheld Shooting and High Imaging Performance

* FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS and FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS

Sony India announces two new G Master™ super telephoto prime lenses for the Alpha™ full-frame E-mount system, the FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS with a focal length of 400mm and the FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS with a focal length of 600mm, both are the world’s lightest1 lenses in their respective categories.

The FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS weighs approximately 994g[i] and the FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS approximately 995g2, achieving the world’s lightest1 design in their respective categories. Their lightweight design makes them well suited to dynamic shooting styles that involve exploring the environment to identify and capture photographic opportunities and subjects. In addition, their carefully optimised weight balance enables excellent control during handheld shooting, including situations where photographers need to continuously keep subjects framed or track moving subjects. These features enhance the flexibility of super-telephoto photography across subjects such as birds, wildlife and sports.

These lenses are also designed to deliver the exceptional resolution and beautiful bokeh that define the G Master series across the super-telephoto range, enabling photographers to capture distant subjects with fine detail. In addition, fast, precise and quiet AF performance allows photographers to quickly and accurately capture fast-moving subjects.

“Sony has always been committed to pushing the boundaries of imaging technology while understanding the evolving needs of photographers. With the new FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS and FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS, we are taking this a step further by making long telephoto reach more accessible in a lightweight form. At under 1 kg, these lenses bring 400mm and 600mm focal lengths into a form factor that photographers can realistically carry, handle and shoot with in the field. For wildlife, bird and sports photographers, this can make a real difference to how they approach and capture a shot.”— Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Imaging & Professional Solutions

Key Features of the FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS and FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS:

Offers Excellent Handling for Super-Telephoto Shooting with a Lightweight and Compact Design

The FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS measures approximately 108 mm in maximum diameter and 242 mm in length, while the FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS measures approximately 108 mm in maximum diameter and 263 mm in length. Their compact dimensions enhance portability while enabling comfortable handling and greater control during handheld shooting.

In addition, a weight balance is designed to position the centre of gravity closer to the camera body that makes it easier to maintain framing on subjects, track moving subjects and perform panning shots. The lightweight design and comfortable handling further enhance flexibility in super-telephoto photography, making it easier to identify and capture subjects while shooting handheld, particularly in environments where using a tripod or monopod may be challenging, as well as during extended handheld shooting sessions.

High Resolution and Beautiful Bokeh Characteristic of G Master

The latest optical design incorporates three Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and one ED glass element to effectively suppress chromatic aberration and other optical aberrations commonly associated with super-telephoto focal lengths, delivering high resolution from the centre of the image to the edges.

Sony’s proprietary Nano AR Coating II significantly reduces ghosting and flare, even in backlit conditions, helping to deliver clear and crisp imagery.

Additionally, it also comes with an 11-blade circular aperture, combined with the optimisation of spherical aberration during both the design and manufacturing processes, produces the beautifully smooth bokeh characteristic of the G Master series.

Offers Fast, Precise and Quiet AF Performance and Optical Image Stabilisation for Stable Super-Telephoto Shooting

Comes with two XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors and a control algorithm, optimised specifically for these lenses, to deliver fast, precise and quiet AF performance. This feature enables reliable tracking of fast-moving subjects such as birds, wildlife and sports and are fully compatible with Alpha 9 III continuous shooting at up to 120 fps with AF/AE tracking.[ii]

The lenses also incorporate built-in optical image stabilisation, helping to reduce camera shake during handheld shooting at super telephoto focal lengths.

It also supports the camera body’s Active Mode image stabilisation and coordinated image stabilisations control[iii], enabling high-quality still-image and movie shooting with reduced blur, even when shooting handheld. Furthermore, it supports the camera body’s breathing compensation function[iv], which corrects changes in angle of view caused by shifts in focus position during movie recording.

Operability, Reliability and Expandability for Super Telephoto Photography

For enhanced operability, four customisable focus hold buttons are positioned around the lens barrel. The lenses are also equipped with a function ring, focus range limiter, Full-time DMF switch, focus mode switch and image stabilisation mode switch, enabling intuitive operation according to different shooting styles.

Compatible with Sony's optional teleconverters[v], the FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS can achieve focal lengths of up to 800 mm, while the FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS can achieve up to 1200 mm.

The lenses feature a dust and moisture resistant design[vi] and a fluorine coating on the front lens element that helps resist contaminants, supporting use in a variety of outdoor shooting environments.

The FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS & FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS product video can be viewed HERE.

Pricing and Availability:

The FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS and FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS lenses will be available across all Sony Centers, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony authorized dealers, and major electronic stores across India, as well as on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart, starting from 24th September 2026 onwards.

Model	MRP (in INR)	Availability
FE 400mm F4.5 GM OSS	3,10,990/-	24th September 2026 onwards.
FE 600mm F6.3 GM OSS	4,28,990/-	24th September 2026 onwards.

 

About Sony Alpha Community

In an effort to build a robust Alpha community with a strong network of amateur and professional photographers on one platform, a special initiative has been undertaken by Sony India where users can now avail several benefits by simply registering their Alpha cameras, lenses and accessories on the Alpha Community. Some of the benefits of registration include an extended warranty of 3 years (2-year standard warranty + 1 Year extended warranty) and free exclusive workshops by Sony experts and Artisans. Customers can also avail attractive discounts on photo tours (50% discount on photo tours for their first trip and 25% discount for the consecutive trips) and a chance to participate in photography/videography contests to win exciting prizes like cameras, lens and professional camcorders and a lot more. The platform will be a one-stop destination to get all the latest updates, firmware updates, free service camps, workshops and new launches for Sony Alpha. For more information, visit Alpha Community.

 

Explore the new Sony Alpha Community App. We invite you to download, experience, and share feedback on the app.

Register your Sony products with ease

Join expert-led Alpha Classroom sessions

Stay informed about upcoming workshops near you

 

Download Now:

 

Android: https://shorturl.at/2xvWn

iOS: https://apple.co/43EydLs

 

Alpha Classroom: Alpha Classroom is a series of tutorials where experts will take you through the nuances of photography & Videography, advise you on the right gear and help you explore your creative potential to reach its fullest expression. Come, learn with us and together, we will conquer the world of your dreams. https://alphacommunity.in/alpha-classroom/courses/

 

Ask an Expert: Ask an Expert is a one-stop platform to get all your questions related to cameras, lenses, gear and more answered by a Sony Alpha Expert. It’s easy, convenient, and free! Yup! You heard it right. Choose your slot and book an appointment with an expert today! https://alphacommunity.in/ask-an-expert/.

 

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 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.

 

Ireland Education Brings Top Higher Education Institutions To Bengaluru For Education Fair

Education in Ireland, the national brand representing Ireland’s higher education sector, is set to host its flagship Education in Ireland Fair i on 11th of October 2026 at 11.00 am onwards at Taj MG Bengaluru. The fair will bring together representatives and academics from 187 leading Irish universities and colleges, along with an official from the Irish Visa Office, offering students and parents the opportunity to engage directly with institutions and gain first-hand insights on studying in Ireland.

Positioned as a comprehensive guidance event, the fair will allow students to explore a wide spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered in Ireland- across technology, healthcare, sustainability, business and finance, arts and humanities, and emerging industries. Academics and faculty representatives will also be present to speak about academic pathways, industry trends, and the unique advantages of studying in Ireland. Attendees will also have access to information on, research opportunities, student life and personal development opportunities, factors driving the country’s importance as a preferred global destination for Indian students.

With personalised guidance and one-on-one interactions, the event aims to empower students with the knowledge, clarity and confidence needed to begin their higher education journey in Ireland. Representatives from the Irish Visa Office will also be present to guide students and families through the student visa process, key documentation requirements and timelines, helping them navigate the upcoming academic intakes with greater ease.

Ahead of the fairs, Ms. Elizabeth McHenry, Regional Manager – Asia & MENA, Education in Ireland, said, “We are pleased to bring 17 leading Irish universities and colleges to Bengaluru this year, giving students and parents the opportunity to engage directly with institutions and explore the academic and career opportunities available in Ireland. Bengaluru’s strong technology and innovation ecosystem has created growing interest among students looking to pursue globally relevant education, particularly across technology, engineering, business and emerging fields. We look forward to meeting students and families in Bengaluru, and helping them gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s internationally recognised programmes, research opportunities, and industry connections as they plan their higher education journey.”

 

List of Participating institutions
Dundalk Institute of Technology	Atlantic Technological University	Dublin Business School
Munster Technological University	Independent College	Maynooth University
South East Technological University	National College of Ireland	University College Dublin
Technological University Dublin	Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin	Technological University of the Shannon
University of Galway	University College Cork	RCSI: University of Medicine & Health Sciences
Dublin City University	University of Limerick

 

The Bengaluru fair will be the last stop of the five-city Education Fair that will visit New Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, and Chennai this October. The fairs are designed to provide trusted, transparent guidance for those aspiring to study and live in Ireland.  

Tata Trusts propose A Strategic Reorganisation For Tata Sons Private Limited

* Proposed structure is compliant with applicable laws and maintains the operating structure of the House of Tatas

The Tata Trusts today, as majority shareholders with a 66% stake in Tata Sons Private Limited (TSPL), outlined a strategic reorganisation plan for the Company which, when given effect to, would ensure that the reorganised entity would neither be a ‘Non-Banking Financial Company’ (NBFC) nor a ‘Core Investment Company’ (CIC). The proposed reorganisation of TSPL essentially entails the merger of ‘Tata Electronics Systems Solutions Private Limited’ (TESS) and ‘Tata Consulting Engineers ‘(TCE) with TSPL.

The proposed strategic reorganization of the business and operations of TSPL is not a new pathway; TSPL

has, for almost 80 years out of its 100-year existence, always had operating businesses and operating revenues, which enabled it to fund its other, newer business ventures. To recall, as recently as 2004, Tata Consultancy Services was a business division of TSPL before it was demerged into a separate subsidiary.

This was also the case with other operating businesses of TSPL. Accordingly, the proposed reorganization will result in TSPL reverting to its previous operating model, with its own operations and revenues, in addition to being a holding company for the Tata Group. This will also be in line with the previous classification (after 2004) by RBI of TSPL as a “non-banking, non-financial company”.

The amalgamated entity, arising out of the merger of TESS and TCE with TSPL, shall have, as of March 31, 2026:

a. Operating revenues of INR 105,043 crores, far in excess of its income from financial assets (INR 40,072 crores) constituting 64.3% of the total income of the amalgamated entity;

b. Will not meet the “principal business criteria” of an NBFC and; 

c. Will also not meet the conditions applicable to a CIC (Net Assets aggregating INR 200,158 crores, out of which investment in Group Companies shall be INR 177,120 crores representing less than 90% of the aggregate net assets of the resultant entity).

An amalgamation of genuine operating, non-financial companies (such as TESS and TCE) with an NBFC (such as TSPL) will need to be undertaken in accordance with the provisions of the Reserve Bank of India (Non-Banking Financial Companies – Voluntary Amalgamation) Directions, 2025, including the requirement to obtain a prior ‘no objection certificate’ of the RBI. Given that TSPL will also cease to be a CIC upon the conclusion of the proposed reorganization, TSPL will require to surrender its certificate of registration.

The Tata Trusts believe that the proposed reorganization and action plan for compliance would be in the best interests of the Tata Group as well as its stakeholders, in addition to being a regulatory permissible and compliant form of reorganization of a CIC. The Tata Trusts have, accordingly, written to the TSPL Board to consider and approve the proposal, and to take necessary steps, including applying to the RBI for the necessary ‘no-objection certificate’ as required for the proposed merger and reorganisation of TSPL. The Tata Trusts, along with TSPL, will engage with the RBI on all aspects of the proposed reorganisation.

The proposed amalgamation and consequential steps are in line with regulatory compliance requirements and the unanimous resolutions passed by the Boards of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and Sir Ratan Tata Trust in July 2025 wherein it was agreed that all endeavours should be made to ensure that the status of TSPL as an unlisted private company should continue. It also has the advantage of preserving the more than 100-year-old distinctive and unique organisational structure of the Group, which has always focussed on long term strategic initiatives geared towards nation building and the welfare of the disadvantaged and the excluded.

About Tata Trusts

Established in 1892, the Tata Trusts are India’s oldest and amongst Asia’s largest philanthropic institutions.
They have played a pioneering role in bringing about an enduring difference in the lives of the communities they serve, advancing equity, resilience and shared progress.

Inspired by the vision of Founder Jamsetji Tata and guided by a legacy of proactive philanthropy, the Trusts
work to catalyse systemic and sustainable change across healthcare, nutrition, education, water, sanitation and hygiene, livelihoods, social justice and inclusion, environment and other areas of public interest.

For more information, please visit: www.tatatrusts.org

Bilanda – Walk Through Reminiscence,” A Solo Art Exhibition By Renowned Artist Ghazali Moinuddi

Event Details

What: Bilanda – Walk Through Reminiscence | Solo Art Exhibition by Ghazali Moinuddin
Calendar Launch: 1 October 2026 | 5:00 PM
Exhibition Dates: 1–5 October 2026
Timings: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Venue: Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi
Entry: Open to all

About the Exhibition:

Bilanda brings together Ghazali Moinuddin’s nature-inspired works, landscapes, and reminiscences, reflecting his distinctive artistic expression. Known for his unconventional technique, Ghazali creates his richly textured works using his fingers instead of paintbrushes.

About the Artist:

Renowned artist Ghazali Moinuddin, an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia, has exhibited extensively across India and internationally, with his works showcased in countries including Bulgaria, Japan, Qatar and Egypt.