June 2026

A subsidiary of Germany-based profine GmbH — profine India Window Technology Pvt. Ltd. — manufacturer of the iconic Koemmerling uPVC and aluminium window and door systems — today announced a significant leadership transition, effective 1st June 2026.   Mr Farid Khan, CMD (left) and Mr Kamal Bajaj, CEO, profine India Mr. Farid Khan, who has served as Chief Executive Officer of profine India since its inception, will assume the elevated role of Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD). In this capacity, Mr. Khan will focus on long-term strategic direction, group-wide governance, and profine’s international expansion across South Asia, the Middle East, and non-EU global markets — roles he already leads as MD of profine Middle East and Head of the group’s global non-EU Aluminium Business. Succeeding him as Chief Executive Officer is Mr. Kamal Bajaj, who has been serving as Chief Procurement Officer and Business Head – Aluminium at profine India. Mr. Bajaj brings deep operational expertise, a thorough command of the Indian market, and a values-driven leadership approach that the organisation is confident will carry profine India into its next phase of growth. “Over two decades, I have had the privilege of building profine India from the ground up – establishing world-class manufacturing infrastructure, taking the Koemmerling brand to industry leadership, and driving our strategic expansion into aluminium. As I step into the Chairman cum Managing Director’s role, I do so with full confidence in Kamal’s ability to lead this organisation with vision and integrity. Our best chapter is still ahead,” said Farid Khan, Chairman cum Managing Director, profine India. “I am deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of leading profine India as CEO. The foundation that Mr Farid Khan built is exceptional – in terms of people, product and market presence. My focus will be to accelerate growth, deepen our partner relationships and ensure that profine India continues to set the standard for quality and innovation in the fenestration and façade industry,” said Kamal Bajaj, Chief Executive Officer, profine India. About profine India Window Technology Pvt. Ltd. profine India is a 100% subsidiary of profine group, offering premium uPVC  and aluminium windows, doors, aluminium façade systems and polymer composite sheet solutions to the market. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, profine India has established itself as a trusted partner for architects, fabricators, and builders across the country. About Farid Khan Farid Khan is a global business executive with over two decades of expertise in international market expansion, manufacturing scale-up, and strategic leadership within the building materials and fenestration industry. As CMD of profine India, MD of profine Middle East, and Head of the non-EU Aluminium Business for profine Group, he leads one of the industry’s most extensive multi-regional mandates. About Kamal Bajaj Kamal Bajaj has been a key member of the profine India leadership team, most recently serving as Chief Procurement Officer and Business Head – Aluminium. He brings deep institutional knowledge of profine’s Indian operations, strong cross-functional capabilities, and a people-first leadership philosophy to the role of Chief Executive Officer.

Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC), Jamshedpur, a constituent unit of the prestigious Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, today celebrated its First Graduation Ceremony at the MTMC Campus in Baridih, Jamshedpur as part of the 33rd Convocation of MAHE, marking a watershed moment in the journey of the college.   Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, awarded the Dr TMA Pai Gold Medal at the First Graduation Ceremony of MTMC, Jamshedpur   The ceremony marked a monumental milestone for the institution as the pioneer batch of 133 MBBS students graduated from the 2020–2021 academic session.   At the ceremony, Dr Sharath K Rao, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, formally conferred the medical degrees on the graduates, who are now poised to contribute significantly to the healthcare ecosystem of the region.   The ceremony was graced among others by the Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Gangwar as the Chief Guest, Shri K. Vijay Kumar, Senior Security Advisor, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, as Guest of honor, Shri Sundara Ramam, Vice President – Corporate Services, Tata Steel, Shri Somnath Das, Group President- Special Projects and Officer on Special Duty to MAHE, and Brig. (Dr) H S Bandhu, Dean of MTMC. Family members and friends of the graduating students attended the ceremony. It was also graced by other senior leadership from MAHE and Tata Steel Limited, senior MTMC administrators, distinguished academicians, faculty members, and invited dignitaries.   Delivering the convocation address, Jharkhand Governor Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar described the convocation as a celebration not only of academic achievement but also of the graduates’ future contribution to society. Reflecting on the vision of the institution’s founders, he noted that education and healthcare are powerful instruments for social transformation and emphasized the importance of creating a strong foundation for a healthier and more equitable society.   The Governor reminded the graduates that medicine is not merely a profession but a mission of service to humanity. He observed that while advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, and modern healthcare technologies are transforming medical practice, the essence of healthcare remains rooted in empathy, trust, and human connection.   Joining this august moment virtually Shri Irfan Ansari, Hon’ble Minister for Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare, Government of Jharkhand, said, “Our job is not limited to providing medical care to our patients. It also extends to advocating for them, earning their trust and to be a safe, serious and humanitarian support system for them in their hour of need. It is your responsibility to reassure your patients that they have a chance at a fulfilling and healthy life once they exit your care.”   Addressing the graduating students, Shri Vijay Kumar urged the young medical professionals to pursue their vocation with passion, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to learning. Emphasizing that healthcare is a collective endeavor, he highlighted the vital role of teamwork among doctors, nurses, paramedics, and support staff in delivering quality patient care.   In his address, Dr Sharath K Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “MTMC has emerged as a strong academic institution with a growing reputation for excellence in medical education, research, and innovation. We are confident that our first graduating batch is well prepared with the competence, confidence, and values needed to excel in the evolving field of medicine.”   He added, “Our continuing focus is on preparing doctors who can make a meaningful contribution to healthcare in India and beyond. We will also remain committed to advancing research and academic development at MTMC as part of our long-term vision.”   Speaking on the occasion, Shri Somnath Das said, “The Realisation of the government’s policy vision for a private–private consortium in medical education has been successfully translated into reality at MTMC. The graduation of the first batch stands as a testament to the strength of this pioneering partnership and its long-term value for society.”   Shri D B Sundara Ramam, Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel, said, “Tata Steel has always believed in contributing meaningfully to society, and MTMC reflects that commitment in a deeply impactful way. This institution represents an enduring investment in education, healthcare, and community development for the region.” Brig. (Dr) Bandhu, Dean of MTMC, welcomed the gathering and Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE, proposed a vote of thanks.   About Manipal Academy of Higher Education Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

India has over 1 million government schools, 121 million children who depend on them, and nearly 9.4 million teachers working within the system every day. Most of them work without recognition, without visibility, and often without institutional support. The Shikshagraha Awards exist to change that, and the evidence shows it is working.    Nominations for the 3rd Shikshagraha Awards, instituted by SFPI, are open until July 31, 2026 Shikshagraha, the people-led movement to improve public schools across India, has announced that nominations for the 3rd edition of the Shikshagraha Awards, instituted by The Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives, are now open until July 31, 2026. The awards recognise educators, community leaders, and grassroots changemakers who are reshaping public education from the inside out. “India’s public education system is the single greatest lever we have for an equal society. For too long, the educators doing extraordinary work in the most difficult conditions have gone unrecognised. When we celebrate these leaders, we inspire a thousand more to step forward,” SD Shibulal, Co-founder, Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiative. Now in its third year, the awards have already proved that recognition is not symbolic; it is a catalyst. Past winners have used the financial support, credibility, and network that come with the award to scale their work in measurable ways. In Bihar, Kumari Guddi expanded her work beyond her school to create a community helpdesk, a scholarship fund, and a supply store for girls in neighbouring communities, now supporting 50 to 100 children across multiple schools.  In Andhra Pradesh, Nellore Subhrahmanyam used the award to fulfil a two-decade-old dream: a mobile science bus that has now reached nearly 50 rural schools, up from 20. His work was featured in the March 2026 edition of Samagra Shiksha, and a documentary team from Pune is set to film his journey.  In Madhya Pradesh, Muskan Ahirwar grew her community library Kitaabi Masti from 2,000 to 3,500 books and watched children begin showing up on their own, without being pushed. In Meghalaya, Batskhem Thabah saw media coverage of his award inspire teachers across the state to come forward with their own ideas. “For nearly 20 years, I spent much of my own salary on this work. The award reassured my family and my community that this work was meaningful,” Nellore Subhrahmanyam, Shikshagraha Award Winner, Andhra Pradesh. “Every child deserves the chance to step into the future with confidence and dignity, and across India, there are communities working every day to make that possible. Across two editions of the Shikshagraha Awards, we have seen proof that the solutions already exist — in teachers, community leaders, and youth who refuse to accept that some children deserve less. When we recognise these leaders, we are saying clearly that every child who walks out of a government school must walk out ready — with the foundations to learn, the confidence to lead, and the skills to navigate a world being reshaped by technology and climate,” Khushboo Awasthi, Co-Weaver of the Shikshagraha movement & Co-Founder of ShikshaLokam. Winners of the Shikshagraha Award receive financial support, national media coverage, access to a network of changemakers and civil society organisations, and the institutional credibility that opens doors to government departments, NGOs, and funders. The 2027 awards will be presented at InvokED, an annual global dialogue on education leadership where experts, educators, and changemakers come together to shape the movement towards education equity. The next InvokED is scheduled for February 26 & 27, 2027. Nominations are open to educators, school leaders, community volunteers, and anyone driving meaningful change within India’s public education system, across all geographies, disciplines, and types of work. Nominate by July 31, 2026, at: shikshagraha.org/awards. About Shikshagraha Shikshagraha is a people-powered movement to improve all 1 million public schools in India, so that every child experiences enriching learning and is ready for the future. Real change begins with the child at the centre — their learning, confidence, well-being, and aspirations, and with those closest to the child. The movement enables parents, women and youth to demand and support quality education, and equips teachers, school leaders, and officials with tools for micro-improvements towards systemic change. Currently, 35+ civil society, industry and philanthropic partners in the Shikshagraha network are collectively strengthening 1,17,000+ schools across 33 districts across 14 states & UTs. This includes enabling education leaders to lead need-based school improvements and amplifying women, youth and community participation in the public education system. Shikshagraha works towards improving schools where the need is greatest, supports leadership on the ground, and shifts the norms that hold education back. Through visible practice change and collective action by communities, governments, civil society, and markets, it reimagines what public schools can and must deliver.   Visit shikshagraha.org for more details.

Students from Galgotias University earned the top spot at EDVentures 2026, a global innovation and entrepreneurship competition hosted by The Education University of Hong Kong, where young innovators from universities across the world presented solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.   Competing against 19 teams from 10 countries, two student teams from Galgotias University represented India at the international platform and secured recognition for their innovation-led solutions focused on accessibility and immersive learning.   Project TACTO won the Top Prize, the AWS Championship Prize at EDVentures 2026, receiving total prize money and support worth USD 7,000   Only a small percentage of visually impaired students, especially in the Global South, currently have access to inclusive and interactive STEM learning tools, creating a significant accessibility gap in coding and technology education. To address this challenge, the team developed an inclusive learning solution that uses buttons, sensors, and audio feedback to help visually impaired learners understand foundational coding concepts through touch and sensory interaction. The project aims to make coding education more accessible, engaging, and experiential for learners with visual disabilities, contributing towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 focused on quality and inclusive education.   Project TACTO was represented by Gaurang Pant, third-year BTech Computer Science and Engineering student, Class of 2027; Shristi Mandoliya, second-year BTech Computer Science and Engineering with Data Science student, Class of 2028; and Kavya Singh, third-year BBA Financial Investment Analysis student, Class of 2026.   Another student startup, Tekurious Pvt Ltd, was also selected among the global finalists at the competition. The startup presented a virtual reality-based immersive learning platform designed to create more engaging and interactive educational experiences for learners.   Speaking about the achievement, the Founders of Project TACTO said, “Competing with teams from across the world and seeing our idea receive global recognition was an unforgettable experience. We wanted to build something that could make learning more inclusive and accessible for visually impaired learners, and this recognition has strengthened our belief that technology can become a powerful tool for meaningful social impact.”   Mr. Rachit Mathur, entrepreneur and mentor to Project TACTO, said, “What started as mentorship eventually felt like working alongside co-founders. We had debates, disagreements, and long discussions around the business model, pitching, and strategy, but the team’s hard work and belief in their idea stood out throughout the journey. The credit truly goes to them for building a powerful and meaningful innovation.   Over the past six months, we worked on refining their pitch, GTM strategy, founder mindset, and preparation for investor questions. Having spent over 15 years in the startup ecosystem, I tried to bring my experience into the process. When the results were announced, it felt deeply personal and emotional. The fact that Galgotias University fully sponsored the teams’ participation and international travel to Hong Kong also reflects the kind of strong support system and startup culture being built under the leadership of Dr. Dhruv Galgotia.   Universities and institutions participating in EDVentures 2026 included The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; National Institute of Education, Singapore; King Saud University, Saudi Arabia; East China Normal University, China; Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia; Ajman University, United Arab Emirates; Beijing Normal University, China; The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; and Mahidol University, Thailand.   Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer, Galgotias University, said, “Our students have made India proud by representing the country on a global platform. Their innovation addresses the challenge of inclusive education for visually impaired learners. Young people today are building solutions that require technology, empathy, and interdisciplinary thinking to come together. It is extremely encouraging to see our students competing confidently alongside leading international universities and receiving recognition for ideas that are socially meaningful and innovation driven. We are continuously strengthening an ecosystem that gives students access to technology, mentorship, global exposure, startup support, and opportunities to translate ideas into real-world impact.”   Galgotias University focuses on building a strong culture of innovation, research, global exposure, and problem-solving through interdisciplinary learning, industry engagement, startup incubation, and technology-driven academic initiatives.   About Galgotias University Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact.   In the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 15th among private universities and 43rd among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.   Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,100 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.   To know more, visit: www.galgotiasuniversity.edu.in

The Ramaiah Group has partnered with the University at Albany, State University of New York, a leading public research university, to establish the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management (RISM) – India’s first distinct greenfield deemed‑to‑be university in Bangalore. Conceived as a next‑generation STEM and management university, RISM will offer a globally benchmarked, industry‑embedded engineering curriculum that prioritizes resilience and translational research. A distinctive mix of internationally reputed faculty, on‑campus industry mentors, and a three‑year capstone experience beginning in the second year will prepare graduates to meet and exceed the technology and enterprise needs of India’s next decade.   Dr. M. R. Jayaram, Chancellor, RISM, and other RISM members addressed a press meet organized on Monday, 1st June 2026 at the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management, Bengaluru   Building on more than six decades of excellence in education, research, and healthcare, the Ramaiah Group will extend its legacy through RISM, reimagining higher education with a global-first, industry-aligned model. RISM will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across engineering, business, and science, with initial courses including B.Tech in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Aerospace Engineering, and Electrical Sciences, alongside BBA (Technology Management) and MBA programmes. Its academic model is anchored in co-created curricula developed with industry and academic partners, and integrates interdisciplinary learning, industry-sponsored Centres of Excellence, internships, live projects, and multi-year capstone assignments to equip students with practical, real-world capabilities.   “Build. The Future.” is embedded across RISM’s curriculum and culture. Programs follow an integrated business- and management-led design that keeps learning applied and outcome-driven from day one. Every course includes real industry exposure, and students work with “Mentor Professors” — senior industry leaders appointed as formal faculty members — a first‑of‑its‑kind model. Translational research underpins the academic framework, informing curriculum design and driving measurable societal impact. Together, these elements create an ecosystem where industry context, academic rigor, and research converge to build the future.   Details about the Schools and Programmes at RISM The School of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence will equip students to operate at the forefront of technological change, building strong foundations in programming, algorithms, and data, with applied exposure to machine learning, automation, and human-robot interaction. The School of Aerospace Engineering will offer a rigorous pathway across aeronautical and astronautical domains, covering flight systems, spacecraft design, satellite technologies, and space exploration. The School of Business will focus on developing analytical, managerial, and strategic capabilities for modern enterprises, with industry-sponsored learning centres on campus enabling early, hands-on engagement with real-world business challenges. What differentiates RISM is how these disciplines are brought together within a globally connected, industry-embedded learning ecosystem, anchored in its knowledge partnership with University at Albany. Through year-abroad opportunities, immersive learning formats, and corporate-sponsored Centres of Excellence, students move beyond siloed education to continuously apply cross-disciplinary thinking in the real-world contexts.   The university’s main residential campus is being developed in Bengaluru’s Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) near Devanahalli, placing it in proximity to key industrial and innovation hubs such as the Aerospace Park, Special Economic Zone, Global Financial District and the upcoming Foxconn facility. This location is expected to foster strong industry-academia collaboration, particularly across STEM disciplines. RISM will commence academic operations from a transit campus in Yelahanka in August 2026, with the main campus expected to be fully operational by September 2028.   All programmes at RISM will follow a fully residential model designed to enable holistic student development beyond the classroom, including structured sports, cultural engagement, wellness initiatives, leadership development and entrepreneurship support, creating a well-rounded and immersive learning environment.   Dr. M. R. Jayaram, Chairman and Trustee of Gokula Education Foundation (Medical), today announced the inauguration of the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management (RISM). Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Jayaram said India requires higher-education institutions that prepare students for global knowledge environments rather than rely solely on traditional teaching models.   RISM will be uniquely focused on STEM and management disciplines, offering rigorous foundational science programs designed to develop transferable technology skills. The institute will emphasize industry-embedded capstone projects that follow the principle “doing is learning,” and will promote translational research that encourages students to apply knowledge for societal benefit.   “Our vision is to make RISM a truly distinct learning institution that delivers a globally benchmarked curriculum and resources,” Dr. Jayaram said. “We aim to enable students to acquire critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are transferable across technology, science, and management domains and meet the needs of modern enterprises.”   Present at the press conference were the Dean of the Governing Board and education expert, Dr. N. D. Gangadhar; former Dean of Aerospace Engineering at Indian Institute of Science and Chairman of RISM, Dr. B. N. Raghunandan; Executive Director and Chief Strategy Officer, Gurucharan Gollakeri; and Registrar of RISM, J. D. Desai.   “The Ramaiah​ Institute of Science and Management (RISM), established in collaboration with the University at Albany and the Ramaiah​ Group, will emerge as a unique deemed university in the country, equipped with all modern facilities. It is envisioned as a next-generation university for STEM and Management education.” – Gurucharan Gollakeri, Executive Director and Chief Strategy Officer.

Pramerica Life Insurance announced financial results for the year ended March 31, 2026, marking its third year of double-digit growth. The milestone reflects not only the consistency of the company’s financial trajectory but the depth of its reach – across geographies, communities, and customer segments that require a more deliberate and sustained commitment to serve well.   Pramerica Life delivers third straight year of double-digit growth; Expands insurance reach across India   Last financial year, the company reported 19% year-on-year growth in New Business Premium (NBP), while Annualised Premium Equivalent (APE) grew 29% year-on-year, driven by healthy momentum across distribution channels. A Claims Paid Ratio of 99.29%, rising for three successive years, indicates towards the sound quality of the business.   The company also delivered strong growth in Retail New Business Premium, reflecting the continued expansion of its retail network into customer segments where the need for financial protection is high but availability has not always kept pace with that need. Notably, this growth was achieved with an average ticket size approximately 42% lower than the industry median – a measure of how deliberately the company has built its distribution to serve customers at varied income levels, not just at the higher end of the market.   Performance Snapshot for FY26: Total New Business Premium of Rs 1,471 crore, registering a 19% Y-o-Y growth Individual New Business Premium grew 30% year-on-year, 2.5x faster than the overall private industry A strong 3-year CAGR of 28% in Total New Business Premium, reflecting one of the most consistent growth trajectories among private life insurers in India Embedded Value grew 15% year-on-year 99.29% claims paid ratio, up from 99.18% last year   The company also continued to deepen its protection footprint, covering over 8.7 Cr+ lives including over 3.5 lakh defence personnel since inception. In line with its long-standing focus on developing solutions for insurance buyers with distinct protection needs, Pramerica Life was the first life insurer to develop specialised protection offerings designed around the service conditions and requirements of armed forces and paramilitary personnel, forging a deep and enduring association with these communities.   Over the years, this relationship has evolved beyond customer outreach into a wider people philosophy, with the company continuing to create meaningful second-career opportunities for veterans and ex-servicemen. Since inception, over 8,500 veterans have been employed by the company, with ex-servicemen today constituting nearly 17% of its employee base.   Pankaj Gupta, MD & CEO, Pramerica Life Insurance, said, “We are focused on building a business anchored in steady progression – and our third consecutive year of double-digit growth is a reflection of that intent. This record has been driven by a well-balanced mix of distribution channels, a sharp focus on the customer, a product approach built around genuine relevance and a strong risk management framework.   As we grow, our priority is to scale responsibly while staying grounded in what matters most to our customers: reliability and a strong claims experience. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding access to life insurance through wider market presence and delivering solutions that align with the evolving needs of new-age India, all while building a business that creates lasting value not just economically, but also through broader financial inclusion and community impact.”   The growth momentum in FY26 was bolstered by a diversified strategy, with strong contributions across both proprietary and newly seeded channels. These channels serve a wide spectrum of customers across geographies, income profiles, professions and life stages, enabling more inclusive insurance penetration across the country.   This commitment to serving a diverse set of customers has also shaped the way Pramerica Life thinks about its products, making accessibility and relevance in product design an extension of its customer-first philosophy. On the non-participating side, the company offers some of the most competitive propositions in the industry – products designed to deliver certainty in an uncertain market environment, which have found strong resonance with customers seeking reliable, long-term financial protection. In the market-linked segment, the company has been at the forefront of product innovation, with offerings such as Smart Invest 1Up – an industry-first ULIP proposition – reflecting Pramerica Life’s commitment to designing products that are differentiated in design and relevant to the evolving needs of today’s India.   This thinking extends to the company’s expanding fund portfolio as well. Recognising the growing investor appetite for India’s long-term growth story, particularly in the midcap segment, Pramerica Life introduced the Nifty Midcap 50 Correlation Fund and the Rising Bharat Fund as part of its market-linked offerings last financial year. Both funds have delivered strong performance relative to broader market benchmarks, reinforcing the company’s focus on identifying high-potential investment themes early and translating them into relevant customer propositions.   Grounded on these pillars, Pramerica Life Insurance has focussed on expanding its brand visibility through targeted, insight-driven marketing capabilities. At the forefront of this effort is This Is My Climb, a brand campaign that speaks to the aspirations and resilience of everyday Indians. The campaign’s most recent chapter made its presence felt on the front pages of national and regional dailies, extending the brand’s reach to a wide and diverse readership across the country.   This kind of engagement with customers does not emerge in isolation; it is the outward expression of an organisation that holds itself to the same standard of commitment internally. A culture of trust, inclusion and accountability – reflected in the company being Great Place To Work Certified for four successive years and recognised among the Top 25 Best Workplaces in the BFSI sector – forms the bedrock of how Pramerica Life grows from within. The company’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce is equally deliberate. Recognised among India’s Best Workplaces for Women and featured in India’s first DEI 100 Index by Team Marksmen and Ernst & Young, Pramerica Life believes that an organisation reflecting the diversity of the country it serves is best positioned to serve it meaningfully.   The steadiness of Pramerica Life’s growth story finds

The youthful entertaining drama Jeena Dil Se has emerged as one of the surprise performers of the weekend box office, collecting an impressive Rs. 3.36 crore gross worldwide in its opening weekend. Presented by ADR Media Production, the film has exceeded expectations for a small-budget youth-centric release and has delivered a highly encouraging start in cinemas. For a film led by a fresh ensemble cast and debutant talent, the opening weekend numbers are being seen as a strong result and a clear reflection of audience acceptance.   Audiences are embracing Jeena Dil Se, reflected in its encouraging opening weekend performance   Directed by Adhish Rana and produced by Amardeep Rana, Jeena Dil Se appears to have connected strongly with younger audiences through its relatable storytelling around love, friendship, relationships, dreams and the emotional complexities of today’s generation. The film has found particular appreciation among college-going audiences and young couples, with its grounded emotions, fresh performances, engaging chemistry and music contributing to strong word-of-mouth across urban centres. The screenplay by Anuj Kumar and Kiran Sharma, based on Sanjay Prajapati’s story, has struck a chord with Gen-Z viewers, while Adhish Rana’s treatment of modern relationships has also been receiving appreciation from audiences. The film’s honest and heartfelt presentation, without leaning into exaggerated commercial tropes, has helped it stand out among recent youth dramas. With Rs. 3.36 crore gross worldwide already on the board in its first weekend, Jeena Dil Se has given the makers plenty to celebrate. The strong weekend trend indicates growing acceptance among youth audiences, and with positive word-of-mouth continuing to build, the road ahead looks promising for the film in the coming days.   Driven by its heartfelt storytelling, fresh performances, and strong emotional appeal, the film has steadily gained momentum over the weekend, emerging as one of the most pleasant surprises at the box office this year.   Directed by debutant Adhish Rana, #JeenaDilSe has collected an impressive Rs. 3.36 crore GBOC over the weekend. Beyond the numbers, what makes this achievement truly special is the overwhelming audience appreciation and positive word-of-mouth that continues to fuel the film’s growth with every show.   Viewers have connected deeply with the film’s sincerity, relatability, and youthful energy, making it a favorite among moviegoers. Despite a competitive release window, #JeenaDilSe has successfully carved its own space, proving that authentic and emotionally resonant stories always find their audience.   More than just a weekend box office figure, this milestone reflects the genuine love and support of cinema lovers. With strong audience backing and growing momentum, #JeenaDilSe is only just beginning its journey.

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), Ministry of Ayush, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Habuild, India’s first habit-building platform to launch a nationwide digital yoga initiative in the lead-up to the International Day of Yoga 2026. This collaboration aims to encourage citizens across the country to adopt yoga as a simple daily practice through structured and accessible online programmes.    Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga at the signing ceremony between MDNIY and Habuild   As part of the yoga 365 initiative, Habuild and MDNIY, Ministry of Ayush rolled out a large-scale digital yoga movement (in March 2026) leading up to June 21, 2026, with the objective of encouraging people to practise yoga consistently every day for 100 days. The initiative has already seen participation from over 4 lakh active participants from 130+ countries and every Indian state and Union Territory and is expected to grow multifolds until June 21.    The initiative introduces participants to simple yoga practices that can be integrated into everyday life via the Youtube channel of the Ministry of Ayush. The guided sessions are led by Saurabh Bothra, Co-Founder  and Yoga Instructor of Habuild, whose approach to yoga focuses on habit formation, mindful movement, and building sustainable wellness routines rather than short-term fitness goals. The format has been designed to ensure that everyone can comfortably participate and gradually build a consistent yoga practice.   The initiative reflects a shared vision between MDNIY, Ministry of Ayush and Habuild to expand the reach of yoga through digital platforms while strengthening the culture of preventive healthcare in India.    Commenting on the initiative, Saurabh Bothra, Co-founder, Habuild, said, “Yoga becomes transformative when it moves from an occasional activity to a quiet daily discipline. India has always had a deep cultural relationship with yoga, yet modern lifestyles often make it difficult for people to stay consistent. Through this collaboration with MDNIY, Ministry of Ayush, we hope to create a simple pathway for people to begin and sustain that relationship again. When millions of people practise even a few minutes of yoga every day, the impact extends far beyond individual wellbeing and begins to shape a healthier society.”   Over the years, global observance of International Yoga Day on June 21 has helped introduce yoga to millions of people across the world. The new digital initiative seeks to deepen that engagement within India by encouraging people to move beyond symbolic participation and experience yoga as a consistent part of everyday living.   For Free Yoga until June 21, register here – moa.habit.yoga or call on the toll-free 1800-315-2008.   Link to Message from Sh. Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush in India – www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqezzyXjfkU

For many Indian aftersales partners visiting Vietnam in May, the biggest takeaway from the VinFast Global Business Conference was not just factory scale or new EV models. It was the realization that VinFast is investing heavily in the part of the EV business many consumers care about most: long-term ownership confidence. Electric vehicles have enormous potential in India. According to a survey conducted in late March, three in ten Indians say life would be unimaginable without a car, while 46 per cent prefer owning one even when it is not essential. At the same time, around 63 per cent of respondents said they are likely to adopt EVs, including both two-wheelers and four-wheelers, within the next five years(1).    VinFast is investing heavily in the part of the EV business many consumers care about most: long-term ownership confidence   Yet major concerns still remain. “There is still the question of battery life, resale value and long-term reliability. The perceived danger of the unknown can easily surpass the savings potential even in situations where the economics is obviously in favor of EVs,” said one industry insider(2).   Those concerns have become one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption in India, especially for newer brands still working to establish long-term credibility. That was why many discussions during VinFast’s Global Business Conference in Vietnam earlier this month focused less on horsepower or vehicle specifications and more on infrastructure, workshops, charging networks, and customer support.   For nearly a week, more than 200 partners, investors, and aftersales operators from markets including India toured VinFast’s manufacturing complex, visited service workshops, attended strategy sessions, and explored the broader Vingroup ecosystem.   What many delegates encountered was not simply an automaker expanding internationally, but a company trying to build the surrounding ownership ecosystem alongside vehicle sales.   “Being in the automobile sector, we work with many OEMs, but VinFast is one of the very few companies thinking about the complete ecosystem,” said Rishav Kumar Choudhary, Managing Director of JP Emobility India, after participating in the program.   Aftersales as part of the product While many automakers in India have accelerated EV launches in recent years, charging availability, maintenance accessibility, and long-term ownership support still vary widely across regions. For workshop operators and service partners, the challenge goes beyond customer demand. Investing in EV tooling, technician training, and service infrastructure carries significant risk if an OEM’s long-term commitment to the market remains uncertain.   “It is not only about selling cars. It is also about building the infrastructure those cars require and addressing customer concerns, from charging and aftersales to resale value and ownership confidence,” said Rishav.   That reality shaped much of the attention Indian delegates paid to VinFast’s aftersales strategy during the Vietnam visit. Rather than focusing solely on products or showroom expansion, the company used the conference to demonstrate how it plans to support EV ownership at scale.   During the conference, VinFast outlined plans to expand its global aftersales network to more than 1,100 service workshops in 2026, supported by standardized technician training, quality control systems, and spare parts supply commitments targeting rapid delivery in key markets.   At the same time, VinFast has been expanding its broader EV ecosystem through charging infrastructure partnerships, mobility services, and customer support programs designed to reduce ownership concerns over the long term. In India specifically, through partner V-Green, VinFast is expanding charging access via partnerships with HPCL and RoadGrid, leveraging HPCL’s network of more than 24,400 fuel stations across the country.   Alongside the infrastructure push, VinFast has introduced a range of ownership incentives, including free charging through March 31, 2029, three years of free maintenance, 10-year battery warranties, financial support for customers switching from gasoline vehicles to EVs, and a value assurance buyback program covering up to 75 per cent of vehicle value to help protect long-term resale confidence.   “The free charging, battery warranty, and vehicle warranty programs are extremely attractive offers that very few international brands provide,” said Sweta Choudhary, Director of JP Emobility India.   VinFast’s ecosystem vision became easier for delegates to understand once they experienced it firsthand in Vietnam. VinFast vehicles remained highly visible on the roads across Hanoi, Hai Phong, and other cities, operating not only as private vehicles but also in transportation services and fleet operations. Delegates also toured several of the more than 400 workshops in VinFast’s service network and attended discussion sessions focused on global service expansion and operational support.   The experience culminated at VinFast’s manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, where delegates saw one of the company’s largest operational pillars up close. With large-scale automation systems, robotics, and integrated production lines operating across the site, the facility became one of the highlights of the trip among international visitors.   “Seeing the factory was amazing,” said Shailesh Borse, Vice President at MyTVS India. “With more than 90% automation and the latest technology, it reflects a very modern infrastructure.”   At the same time, the visit also gave delegates a clearer understanding that while VinFast is building its own EV ecosystem, the company itself operates within the broader ecosystem of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate. Vingroup and founder-affiliated companies such as V-Green are helping build charging and mobility infrastructure around the VinFast brand not only in Vietnam, but increasingly in international markets as well.   In Vietnam alone, V-Green is developing a charging network of roughly 150,000 charging ports nationwide, averaging around 3.5 km between charging stations in urban areas and approximately 65 km across 106 national highways and expressways.   For Sweta, the impression extended well beyond the automotive business itself.   “I learned about Vingroup and how it is transforming Vietnam across healthcare, technology, robotics, and many other sectors,” she said. “Vingroup is present in almost every aspect of life, and now it has entered mobility, where we are proud to be partners.”   By the end of the conference, VinFast’s strategy had helped persuade nearly 30 new international aftersales partners to sign Memoranda

The Otters Club Squash Tournament 2026 concluded on a high note, bringing together talent, passion, and sportsmanship across six days of top-flight squash. Supported by Avaada Group, a diversified clean energy conglomerate, the tournament once again reaffirmed its standing as one of India’s premier squash events.   Winners and Runners-Up Across All Categories at the Avaada Otters Club Squash Tournament 2026   Held from May 25 to 30, 2026 at Otters Club, Bandra, the tournament saw 558 players competing across 16 categories. Participants converged from cities across India, bringing with them a vibrant mix of skill, ambition, and sportsmanship. The event featured competition across Men, Women, Boys, and Girls’ categories, with key highlights as follows: Total Categories: 16 Total Players: 558   The tournament bore witness to exceptional performances across all categories, setting new benchmarks and reaffirming India’s deep reservoir of squash talent. From emerging youngsters announcing their arrival on the national stage to seasoned competitors raising the bar, every match reflected the growing stature of the sport in the country. Adding to the excitement, the courts drew large, enthusiastic crowds each day, with spectators cheering loudly and keeping the energy high throughout the event.   Reflecting on the tournament’s success, Ms. Sindoor Mittal, Vice Chairperson of Avaada Group, said, “At Avaada, we have always believed that building a better future goes beyond clean energy. It is about investing in people, communities, and the next generation. This tournament has once again shown us the extraordinary power of sport to inspire and unite. Witnessing 558 players compete with such passion and determination has been deeply motivating, and we are immensely proud of our continued partnership with the Otters Club Squash Tournament. The energy on and off the courts over these six days was a testament to India’s growing talent & love for squash.”   Commenting on the successful conclusion of the tournament, Mr. Niraj Shirgaokar, President of Otters Club, said, “We are delighted with the tremendous success of this year’s Otters Club Squash Tournament. The event witnessed exceptional talent, competitive spirit, and sportsmanship from players across various age groups, reaffirming its position as one of the premier platforms for emerging squash players in India. It is gratifying to see young athletes embrace the challenge, showcase their skills, and continue to raise the standard of the sport. We congratulate all the participants, winners, coaches, and supporters who contributed to making the tournament a memorable celebration of squash and its growing future in the country.”   Avaada’s continued support for the Otters Club Squash Tournament reflects their unwavering commitment to nurturing youth through sport, aligning with their broader mission of promoting sustainable, inclusive growth across all spheres of society. As the 2026 edition draws to a close, the tournament looks ahead to continuing its role in developing squash talent across India.   About Avaada Group Avaada Group is a diversified clean energy conglomerate driving the energy transition across Renewable Power Generation, Solar PV Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen and Derivatives, Battery Storage, Pumped Hydro Projects, and Green Data Centres. With innovation and sustainability at its core, Avaada is powering the industries of tomorrow with solutions that are Always Clean, Always On.