May 26, 2026

Group Legrand India today inaugurated the Legrand Institute for Training & Education at Thane, marking the launch of its first dedicated training centre in Maharashtra. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde, as the Chief Guest, along with the Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development, Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Government of Maharashtra, and Ms. Agnès Silva, Deputy Consul de France, Mumbai.   Thane Institute Inauguration   Established as part of Group Legrand India’s social commitment towards skill development and youth empowerment, the institute aims to strengthen industry-ready technical talent and enhance employability across the electrical and allied technology sectors.   Developed in collaboration with SkillSonics, an NSDC-accredited implementation and knowledge partner, the 8,000 sq. ft. world-class standalone facility has been designed to provide industry-oriented technical training for ITI students, diploma and engineering students, technicians, and electricians. The institute will offer completely free-of-cost training programs with a strong emphasis on practical learning, industry exposure, and employability enhancement aligned to evolving technological and market requirements.   The initiative is expected to train and upskill more than 1,000 students and electricians annually, creating a stronger pipeline of skilled talent for India’s growing infrastructure, energy, and electrical ecosystem. The initiative further strengthens Group Legrand India’s broader CSR framework, which is built on five key pillars: education, healthcare, environment, skill development, and disaster relief; through impactful interventions across communities nationwide.   Speaking on the occasion, Tony Berland, CEO & Managing Director, Group Legrand India, said, “The inauguration of our training centre in Thane marks a significant milestone in Legrand’s journey of empowering youth through skill development and enhancing employability. Through this initiative, we aim to provide accessible, high quality technical education that equips students and electricians with future ready capabilities while contributing meaningfully to India’s skilled workforce development.”   Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra said, “Maharashtra has been actively focusing on strengthening skill development and creating employment opportunities for youth through industry partnerships and practical learning initiatives. The Legrand Institute for Training & Education aligns well with the State’s vision of building a future-ready skilled workforce and will contribute meaningfully towards Maharashtra’s larger skill development mission and industrial growth.”   Abida Aneez, VP – CSR & Sustainability, Group Legrand India, shared, “The Legrand Institute for Training & Education has been developed as a first-of-its-kind advanced technical training facility with modern labs and the latest technologies in electrical and UPS systems. The customised curriculum, designed jointly by Legrand’s subject matter experts and SkillSonics’ technical specialists, aims to equip students and electricians with practical skills and industry-ready capabilities aligned to current and future technological needs.”   The inauguration of the training centre marks another important step in advancing Group Legrand India’s long-term vision of inclusive growth through accessible skilling and community development.   About Group Legrand India Legrand is a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, dedicated to supporting technological, societal, and environmental change around the globe. Legrand’s core purpose is to improve lives by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet, with electrical and digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable.   For over two decades, Group Legrand India has maintained its leadership position in power protection business, utilizing its global expertise to tailor the offering to local market needs. The Group has strategic acquisitions which further solidified its commitment to delivering complete solutions, making it the preferred partner across diverse market segments.    Group Legrand India has several brands under its umbrella who are leaders in their respective product domain, namely IndoAsian, Numeric, Valrack, Adlec and NetRack. With a diverse workforce of 5000+ employees across India, Group Legrand India has 7 state of the art manufacturing facilities, 3 R&D centres and a wide distribution network with over 870 distribution partners and 19000+ retailers.   Legrand’s purpose guides its responsible commitments to a more sustainable world for all. Legrand’s CSR commitments actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the UN for a better and more sustainable future.   Legrand has laid out its CSR /Sustainability commitments in 4 main areas of actions to improve lives: Promote diversity and inclusion Reduce its carbon footprint Develop a circular economy Be a responsible business   As a specialist in electrical and digital infrastructure, reducing the carbon footprint and developing a circular economy approach within its activities are Legrand’s priorities at all times. In addition, Legrand is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, while being a responsible player in its day-to-day relationships with all the stakeholders, especially its employees, customers and suppliers.   Legrand has set the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 throughout the Group’s value chain.

VinFast Auto India, a subsidiary of global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has secured multiple honours across leading automotive platforms in India, reflecting the company’s accelerating momentum in one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets and the growing confidence in its long-term electric mobility vision.   VinFast continues to make its mark in India, earning multiple prestigious awards from leading automotive media outlets across the country   At the Motoring World Awards 2026, a respected editorial-driven automotive platform in India, VinFast was honoured with the “Disrupter of the Year” award, recognising the company’s bold market entry, differentiated approach to electric mobility, and efforts toward building a comprehensive EV ecosystem in India.   The recognition underscores how VinFast has approached India differently from many new entrants in the EV space. Rather than entering the market gradually, the company has simultaneously advanced product launches, manufacturing investments, charging partnerships, retail expansion, after-sales development, and ownership support initiatives. The jury particularly acknowledged VinFast’s willingness to develop vehicles, charging infrastructure, and service capabilities in parallel, reflecting a long-term and execution-driven strategy designed around how electric mobility needs to function at scale in India.   Further reinforcing the strength of its product portfolio, the VF 7 secured “Electric SUV of the Year” at the Car India Awards 2026, presented by one of India’s leading automotive magazines, and “EV Car of the Year” at the Innovation Technology and Imaging Awards 2026 by T3, the Indian edition of the globally-recognised UK technology magazine T3.   The dual honours for the VF 7 reflect the model’s growing reputation as one of the most compelling premium electric SUVs in the Indian market. Across both awards platforms, the vehicle stood out for combining striking design, refined driving dynamics, advanced safety systems, and a technology-rich cabin experience with strong relevance to Indian driving conditions and ownership expectations.   Specifically, at the Car India Awards 2026, the VF 7 was recognised for delivering a notably mature and well-rounded driving experience. The jury highlighted the SUV’s smooth and linear power delivery, intuitive ergonomics, and balanced ride quality, while also acknowledging the speed at which VinFast has evolved as a relatively young automaker.   The T3 award further reinforced the VF 7’s positioning as a technology-forward premium electric SUV developed with a clear all-electric focus. For the jury, the VF 7 represented not only VinFast’s strong product execution, but also a broader commitment to advancing a sustainable and fully electrified mobility future.   Positioned in the premium C-SUV segment, the VF 7 combines VinFast’s “Asymmetric Aerospace” design philosophy with advanced driver assistance technologies, connected features, and comprehensive safety systems. The model, along with the B-SUV VF 6, has also secured a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, reinforcing VinFast’s emphasis on safety as a core pillar of its product strategy in India. Together, these elements have helped the VF 7 establish a strong product-market fit among Indian consumers seeking premium electric mobility solutions that balance design appeal, technology integration, practicality, and long-term ownership confidence.   The recognitions further add to the list of accolades VinFast has received in the Indian market, including “EV Manufacturer of the Year” award at the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026, “Breakthrough Brand of the Year” at the Car&Bike Awards 2026, along with product honours such as “EV SUV of the Year – Editor’s Choice” for the VF 7 at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026 and “Value for Money Car of the Year” for the VF 6 at the Autocar India Awards 2026, reflecting continued positive evaluation from industry experts toward the company’s product direction and long-term investment strategy.   Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said, “These recognitions reflect the positive response to VinFast’s vision and product strategy in India. Being named ‘Disrupter of the Year’ acknowledges our bold approach to accelerating EV adoption, while the VF 7’s recognition as ‘Electric SUV of the Year’ and ‘EV Car of the Year’ reinforces our focus on delivering world-class electric vehicles for Indian consumers. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to building a strong EV ecosystem and seamless ownership experience.”   Mr. Pablo Chaterji, Executive Editor, Motoring World, added, “VinFast has arrived in India with the kind of determination that often takes established players years to develop. There’s a full product lineup, aggressive pricing and a long-term commitment to the market. Its ecosystem—vehicles, charging infrastructure, and service network developed in parallel—reflects an OEM that has carefully studied electric mobility. Its intent is serious and bold, and everything it has done so far is worth paying attention to.”   Mr. Aspi Bhathena, Editor, Car India, added, “What struck me immediately after getting into the car and driving it is how smooth and linear the power delivery is. The interior is simple but well laid-out and the ergonomics are excellent. VinFast may have only started making cars less than a decade ago, but its learning curve is commendable. It has done its homework and has made driving its EVs as safe, relaxing and enjoyable as possible.”   Mr. Girish Mallya, Editor, T3, added, “VinFast’s VF 7 winning the EV Car of the Year at the T3 India Technology Awards 2026 is a powerful validation of their bold, uncompromising vision. As one of the world’s few pure-play EV manufacturers that has completely abandoned ICE technology, VinFast channels 100% of its focus, innovation, and resources into electric vehicles. This win celebrates not just engineering excellence but a genuine commitment to a sustainable, all-electric future.”   In 2026, VinFast continued to strengthen its momentum in India through rapid portfolio expansion and long-term ecosystem development. Following the launch of the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs, both awarded 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, the company further expanded into the electric MPV segment with the premium 7-seat VF MPV 7. VinFast also introduced a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the ownership experience, including assured resale programmes guaranteeing up to 90% vehicle value, free EV charging through V-Green-operated stations until March 2029, industry-leading warranty coverage, accessible financing

In a remarkable medical milestone for Puducherry, East Coast Hospitals has successfully performed what is believed to be the youngest kidney transplant carried out in the region so far, completely free of cost.   Youngest Free Kidney Transplant recipient in Puducherry   This achievement was made possible with the support of the Dr. Blue India Foundation and further strengthens East Coast Hospitals’ reputation as the private hospital in Puducherry that has performed the highest number of ethical, legally compliant, and fully transparent kidney transplants.   Eleven-year-old Guruprasad’s story is one of quiet resilience. Raised along with his two siblings by his mother—who herself lives with significant medical disabilities—the family has been surviving on her modest disability pension, facing life’s challenges with courage and determination. Their journey took a difficult turn when Guruprasad was diagnosed with severe kidney failure, bringing immense emotional and financial strain.   In a powerful act of maternal love, his mother chose to donate her kidney to save her son’s life.   The transplant was successfully performed at East Coast Hospitals under the guidance of Dr. N. Murugesan, a distinguished nephrologist who was part of the medical team that accompanied former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran to the United States for treatment. The hospital continues to maintain a strong track record in kidney transplants while adhering strictly to all legal and ethical frameworks.   Today, Guruprasad is recovering well and looking forward to a healthier future.   Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Venkatram, who headed the team, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the benefactors. “Their selfless act has brought new life to this young boy and immense relief to his family,” he said. He also acknowledged the support extended by others who have contributed towards the family’s ongoing needs, including medicines, food, and clothing.   The transplant was made possible through the generous support of Mr. Vinayagam, Chennai Silks, and a Malaysian business couple, Datuk Dr. Ravee and Datin Kavery, who contributed through the Dr. Blue India Foundation, enabling the procedure to be carried out free of cost.   Dr. Venkatram further added, “There are many more families like Guruprasad’s who need timely medical intervention and support. We welcome both deserving patients and compassionate individuals who wish to make a difference to come forward and connect with East Coast Hospitals.”   East Coast Hospitals is also in the process of expanding its transplant services under various government healthcare schemes, including CMCHIS, PMJAY, ESI, and ECHS, with the aim of making advanced treatments more accessible and affordable to a wider section of society.   This story stands as a testament not only to medical excellence, but also to the extraordinary power of human compassion—where science, sacrifice, and kindness come together to give life a second chance.

Finkurve Financial Services Limited (NSE: FINKURVE; BSE: 508954), one of the leading tech-first gold loan NBFCs, announced its audited financial results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2026.   Priyank Kothari, Executive Director, Finkurve Financial Services Limited The Company reported strong growth across key business and financial parameters during FY26, driven by continued expansion of its technology-led phygital strategy, branch network growth, and increasing customer adoption across markets. During the year, Finkurve crossed the significant milestone of INR 1,000 crore in Assets Under Management (AUM), underscoring its growing presence in India’s secured lending ecosystem. Business Highlights: Q4 FY26 Finkurve continued to witness strong growth momentum during FY26, with Assets Under Management (AUM) growing 149% YoY to INR 1,096.1 crore, including off-book AUM of INR 21.03 crore, while AUM has grown nearly 10x compared to FY23. The Company expanded its branch network from 73 to 105 branches across India, with active gold loan customers standing at 28,506 as of March 31, 2026. During the year, Finkurve also raised approximately INR 111.5 crore to support expansion and strengthen its technology-led phygital strategy. The Company achieved several strategic milestones during FY26, including the listing of its shares on the National Stock Exchange, crossing 100 tech-enabled gold loan branches, and expanding into South India with the launch of its first branch in Chennai. The Board also approved the appointment of Naveen Kottala as Chief Executive Officer effective November 18, 2025. Further, Finkurve entered into a strategic co-lending partnership with Godrej Finance Limited under RBI’s co-lending framework, while Infomerics and CARE Ratings assigned/upgraded the Company’s rating to ‘BBB+ / Stable’. Financial Highlights: Q4 FY26 Finkurve reported a strong financial performance during Q4 FY26, with total income rising 71.21% YoY to INR 69.21 crore and Net Interest Income (NII) increasing 36.87% YoY to INR 47.44 crore. Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew 98.66% YoY to INR 10.42 crore, while Profit After Tax (PAT) increased 105.46% YoY to INR 8.04 crore. Basic EPS for the quarter stood at INR 0.58 compared to INR 0.31 in Q4 FY25. The Company continued to maintain healthy asset quality and liquidity, with Gross NPA at 0.13%, Net NPA at 0.09%, and Capital Adequacy Ratio at 30.96%. Cash and cash equivalents stood at INR 102.12 crore, representing 8.28% of total assets. Financial Snapshot: Q4 & FY26 (INR crore) Particulars Q4 FY26 Q4 FY25 YoY Growth Q3 FY26 QoQ Growth FY26 FY25 YoY Growth Total Income 69.21 40.43 71.21% 52.47 31.91% 209.86 141.09 48.75% PBT 10.42 5.25 98.66% 9.95 4.75% 34.60 23.65 46.31% PAT 8.04 3.91 105.46% 6.98 15.14% 26.03 17.43 49.33%   Basic EPS (INR) 0.58 0.31 87.10% 0.47 16.00% 1.89 1.37 37.96%   Key Metrics: Q4 FY26 Particulars Q4 FY26 Q4 FY25 YoY Growth AUM (INR crore)* 1,096 440 149.09% Branch Network 105 73 43.84% Avg. Gold Loan per Branch (INR crore) 9.9 5.3 86.79%   Includes Off-Book AUM Particulars Q4 FY26 Q4 FY25 Return on Average Loan Assets 3.33% 3.82% Return on Average Equity 9.45% 7.66% Capital Adequacy Ratio 30.96% 44.94% Debt to Equity Ratio 2.4 1.2   Commenting on the performance, Mr. Priyank Kothari, Executive Director said, “Q4 FY26 represents a defining chapter in Finkurve’s journey. Our Assets under Management crossed the INR 1,000 crore mark during the year and reached INR 1,096 crore as on March 31, 2026, reflecting a 149% year-on-year growth. This milestone reflects the momentum we have built across our gold loan franchise and the growing trust of our customers and lending partners. This growth has been supported by meaningful progress during the year. The expansion of our tech-enabled gold loan branch network and our co-lending partnership with Godrej Finance Limited are not just milestones, but important steps in building a stronger and more scalable business. As we look ahead, we remain focused on ensuring that our growth is sustainable and well-governed. Asset quality continues to remain strong with Net NPA at 0.09%, our Capital Adequacy Ratio remains healthy at 30.96%, and liquidity remains comfortable. We will continue to invest in technology, expand our branch network, and diversify our funding base, while keeping risk management, operational discipline, and customer centricity at the core of everything we do.” About Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog) Finkurve Financial Services Limited (NSE: FINKURVE; BSE: 508954), also known by its brand name Arvog, is a non-banking financial company (NBFC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a non-deposit-taking, Middle-layer NBFC. Established in 1984 as Sanjay Leasing Ltd., the Company obtained its NBFC license in 1998 and was acquired by the Promoters in the year 2010. Finkurve focuses primarily on gold loans, which form the majority of its Assets under Management (AUM), positioning it as a leading gold loan NBFC. The Company also offers personal loans and SME loans, expanding its financial solutions through partnerships with fintech companies. Finkurve also has a strategic tie-up with Augmont Goldtech, India’s largest fully integrated gold platform, serving as a one-stop destination for all gold-related needs. With a growing presence across India, Finkurve remains committed to providing accessible, technology-driven financial services to a broad customer base. For more details, please visit www.arvog.com.