August 2026

Danube Properties, who pioneered the iconic 1% per month payment plan, has unveiled another attractive homeownership opportunity aimed at making property ownership in Dubai more accessible than ever. Bayz 101 by Danube and Bayz 102 by Danube, two landmark residential developments in the prestigious Business Bay district, are now available for a limited-time offer with 0% down payment and affordable instalments of just 2% per month, giving buyers an exceptional opportunity to own a home in one of Dubai’s most sought-after locations.   Rizwan Sajan announces Danube Properties’ latest initiative, offering 0% down payment and 2% monthly instalments at Bayz 101 and Bayz 102 Rising over 100 storeys, the Bayz by Danube towers are set to become iconic additions to Dubai’s skyline. The developments feature more than 50 world-class lifestyle amenities, a rooftop helipad, and premium residences designed for contemporary urban living. Strategically located in the heart of Business Bay, the towers are just two minutes from Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa, and within walking distance of the Business Bay Metro Station, offering residents seamless connectivity across the city. Commenting on this latest offering, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said, “Our objective has always been to make homeownership more accessible while creating long-term value for our customers. With zero down payment and affordable monthly instalments of just 2%, Bayz by Danube offers buyers an opportunity to own a premium home in one of Dubai’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Business Bay continues to be a high-growth destination, offering an exceptional lifestyle, excellent connectivity, and strong investment potential.” As demand for centrally located homes continues to rise, properties in Business Bay have consistently demonstrated strong capital appreciation and some of Dubai’s highest rental yields, making Bayz by Danube an attractive proposition for both end-users and investors. Danube Properties continues to strengthen Dubai’s position as one of the world’s leading real estate investment destinations by delivering high-quality developments backed by innovative payment plans. The emirate’s visionary leadership, sustained economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and business-friendly environment continue to attract investors from around the world. About Danube Properties Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is one of the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. Renowned for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company develops fully furnished homes with more than 40 lifestyle amenities and has built a strong reputation for quality construction and timely delivery.

At a time when industries are demanding more reliable and efficient fluid handling solutions, Meet Jain, Founder of Antlia Engineering Works, is building one of India’s emerging industrial pump manufacturers by focusing on engineering excellence rather than reinventing proven technology. Specializing in Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pumps, Antlia Engineering Works has grown by delivering dependable pumping solutions for industries including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, paints, wastewater treatment, mining, and oil & gas.   “Some things aren’t disrupted because they’re already perfect. The AODD pump is one of them—and Meet Jain has built a business on that foundation.”   Antlia Engineering Works, a leading AODD Pump Manufacturer in India, provides reliable industrial pumps for chemical processing and fluid handling applications   The Call That Started Everything In 2017, a young entrepreneur in Mumbai picked up the phone and called India’s biggest Air Operated Double Diaphragm (AODD) pump manufacturer. Meet Jain was excited, ambitious and ready to build something significant. What he heard on the other end of that call would define the next decade of his life.   “What value addition will you bring to my company?” the owner asked. Then: “What’s your MOQ?” That was the end of that conversation.   Rather than being discouraged, Meet made a different call to a mid-level manufacturer who gave Antlia Engineering Works the importance a new business deserved. Best pricing. Excellent after-sales service. And crucially, a willingness to co-develop products. Together, they developed a flap-type AODD pump that would become a cornerstone of Antlia’s product range.   Within three years, Antlia became that manufacturer’s top purchaser. The foundation was set.   The Decision That Changed Everything Growth, however, rarely travels in a straight line. When their supplier raised prices by 30–35% overnight, Meet faced one of the most consequential decisions of Antlia’s journey: absorb the cost, or rebuild the supply chain from scratch.   He chose the harder path. Antlia shifted its entire aod pump manufacturing operation from Vasai to Gujarat, a move that initially demanded significant investment, coordination, and patience. The result was transformative. Better quality. Better after-sales service. A stronger partnership built on mutual respect rather than dependency.   Five years on, India’s biggest AODD pump manufacturer has been actively approaching Antlia for over a year, hoping to win back their business. The student had become the standard.   Building One of India’s Leading AODD Pump Manufacturers Today, Antlia Engineering Works is recognised as one of India’s largest AODD Pump manufacturers. Founded in 2017 and ISO 9001:2015 certified, the company manufactures a comprehensive range of Air Operated Double Diaphragm pumps available in Polypropylene (PP), Stainless Steel 316 (SS316), PVDF and Aluminium alongside barrel pumps and centrifugal pumps, serving the chemical, pharmaceutical, paint, oil & gas and automotive industries.   The AODD pump invented by Jim Wilden in 1955 has remained fundamentally unchanged for 70 years, and for good reason. It requires no electricity, is intrinsically safe near flammable fluids, self-primes, runs dry without damage, handles abrasive slurries and operates submerged. No other pump technology replicates this combination of capabilities. Antlia has built its reputation on mastering and manufacturing this irreplaceable technology.   The company’s client roster reflects the trust it has earned: Ministry of Defence, Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), Asian Paints, ITC, Godrej, Adani Solar, Coca-Cola, and 3M  a global brand that found Antlia through a Google search and reached out directly, without a single cold call.   Thinking Global From a Mumbai Factory With exports to over 20 countries  including the USA, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Kenya, South Africa, Australia, Ghana, Nigeria, Nepal, Chile, and beyond.  Meet’s vision for Antlia has always extended beyond Indian borders. In 2024, that global thinking took a concrete digital form.   Antlia became one of the first Indian industrial pump manufacturers to launch a fully multilingual website available in English, French, and Arabic. The reasoning was strategic: over 300 million French speakers across Africa and Europe search and buy in their language, not English. The Middle East, home to some of the world’s largest oil and gas companies relies on Arabic-language search. Google’s algorithm rewards local-language content with higher rankings in local search results. If your website doesn’t speak your customer’s language, it effectively doesn’t exist for them.   Antlia also holds GeM (Government e-Marketplace) seller registration, Ministry of Defence approval, and has exhibited at industrial trade expos in Indore, Hyderabad, and Delhi with international exhibition plans in the pipeline.   Redefining How Industrial Equipment Is Bought in India In a sector still largely defined by phone calls, distributor networks, and long procurement cycles, Meet made a move that no Indian AODD pump manufacturer had attempted before: he launched a direct diaphragm pump e-commerce website where customers can purchase AODD pumps online, directly from the manufacturer.   Platforms like Amazon, IndustryBuying, and Moglix list double diaphragm pumps but as third-party sellers. Antlia’s e-commerce platform is different in a fundamental way: the company that designs, manufactures, tests and services the pump is the same company taking your order. No resellers. No markups. No middlemen. Accurate specifications, application guidance, and after-sales support are built into the purchase, not bolted on after.   This manufacturer-to-customer direct model, rare anywhere in the world for industrial pump equipment, is a signal of where Antlia is headed: a modern, digitally-native industrial company that happens to make world-class pumps.   The Man Behind the Machine Meet Jain is the founder and owner of Antlia Engineering Works. With over a decade of experience spanning B2B sales, strategic partnerships, manufacturing operations, and international trade, he brings a rare combination of technical depth and commercial sharpness to industrial manufacturing.   Meet Jain holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from NMIMS-MPSTME and an MBA from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) one of India’s most prestigious business schools while simultaneously building Antlia Pumps.   At Antlia, he personally oversees product quality, customer delivery and technical support ensuring that every pump leaving the factory meets the stringent

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, has announced its limited-edition bottles celebrating ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day,’ bringing the fun and excitement of one of the most anticipated superhero blockbusters in recent times to consumers across the country. The special-edition packs feature three of the movie’s stellar cast, Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Sadie Sink, and are now available nationwide.   Bisleri Brings the Magic of Spider-Man: Brand New Day to Consumers with Limited-Edition Packs and Merchandise   Timed perfectly with the film’s theatrical release, the exclusive range transforms everyday hydration into a collectible experience. ‘The Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ association will feature across Bisleri’s 250ml, 500ml, and 1-litre water bottles.   Commenting on the launch, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri International, said, “We are thrilled to associate with ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day,’ the next chapter of one of the biggest and most iconic global movie franchises, and a significant part of today’s global pop culture. The association will be brought to life through our limited-edition bottles, which will be an exciting collectible for our consumer base.“   The launch will be supported by a high-octane, 360-degree marketing campaign spanning digital engagement and vibrant in-store retail visibility. Taking the excitement directly to the streets, a spectacularly branded Spider-Man x Bisleri Truck will traverse Mumbai, generating massive out-of-home (OOH) buzz and creating high-impact visibility in the lead-up to the film’s release.   The limited-edition water bottles are now available across general and modern trade outlets pan-India.     About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd  With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.    Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.    The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.   For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com. 

Greaves Cotton Limited reported consolidated revenue of INR 974 crore and standalone revenue of INR 629 crore for Q1 FY27, driven by disciplined execution across its businesses. The company further strengthened its international footprint with the incorporation of Greaves International Trading FZE in Dubai, UAE, while reaffirming its commitment to Greaves Electric Mobility through a INR 331 crore rights issue subscription.   Greaves Cotton posts a steady start to FY27, backed by resilient execution and its GREAVES.NEXT strategy   Greaves Cotton Limited, one of India’s leading diversified engineering companies, announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, delivering a steady performance across its diversified businesses. During the quarter, the Company continued to execute its Greaves.Next strategy by strengthening its core businesses, expanding its international footprint and making strategic investments to support future growth. These actions reflect Greaves’ commitment to prudent capital allocation, portfolio diversification and building a globally relevant engineering enterprise positioned for sustainable long-term value creation. Financial Performance Consolidated Revenue for Q1 FY27 stood at INR 974 crore, up 31 percent YoY.  EBITDA stood at INR 56 crore.  Operating PBT stood at INR 27 crore.  Standalone Revenue for Q1 FY27 stood at INR 629 crore, up 16 percent YoY.  EBITDA stood at INR 71 crore.  Operating PBT stood at INR 67 crore.  Parag Satpute, MD & Group CEO, Greaves Cotton Limited, said, “We have begun FY27 on a strong note, delivering a solid performance on the back of disciplined execution across our businesses, while strengthening our strategic foundations under Greaves.Next. During the quarter, we expanded our international footprint with the establishment of a subsidiary in Dubai, UAE, enhanced our manufacturing capabilities through advanced automation, and continued to grow across our domestic and international businesses despite commodity price and supply chain pressures. We also reaffirmed our commitment to future-ready businesses through investments in Greaves Electric Mobility and Greaves Finance. Supported by a strong balance sheet, we are well positioned to drive organic growth, invest in our portfolio companies, and capitalise on emerging growth opportunities. Demand across segments remains encouraging and we remain focused on executing our strategy with discipline to build a stronger, more future-ready Greaves.”  Business Highlights Energy Solutions continued its growth momentum during the quarter, delivering revenue growth of 21 percent YoY, supported by healthy demand across infrastructure, manufacturing and industrial applications. Domestic sales of the Medium Horsepower (MHP) genset portfolio grew by 32 percent on a YoY basis, and we commissioned a BESS pilot towards strengthening our integrated solutions portfolio. The Mobility Solutions business delivered 18 percent year-on-year revenue growth, supported by strong performance across key segments. Automotive engines recorded robust growth of 36 percentYoY, while the Engineered Components businesses grew 14 percent YoY, driven by healthy domestic demand and steady export momentum. Demand for Euro V+ compliant engines remained encouraging in export markets. The Engineered Components domestic business also secured new orders from large OEMs such as Caterpillar UK and TAFE. Industrial Solutions witnessed sustained demand across defence, marine and agriculture applications, strengthening engagement with OEM customers across specialised industrial applications. Supported by strong market execution, the international business continued to contribute 13 percent to core business revenue. The Company incorporated Greaves International Trading FZE in Dubai, UAE establishing a regional hub to strengthen customer engagement and distribution capabilities across the Middle East and Africa. Greaves Electric Mobility business strengthened its market position through sustained network expansion and portfolio enhancements. In electric two-wheelers, VAHAN volumes more than doubled, growing 101 percent year-on-year in Q1 FY27, while market share increased from 4.3 percent in FY26 to 5.6 percent in June ‘26. In three-wheelers, L5 VAHAN volumes grew 39 percent year-on-year, with electric L5 volumes nearly doubling, reflecting strong demand and continued market penetration across key segments. The Company has informed that its INR 530 Crore rights issue has been fully subscribed with its Board approving the allotment of equity shares to all eligible shareholders. Greaves Cotton Limited has subscribed to its full entitlement of approximately INR 331 Crore, and our shareholding in GEML remains unchanged at 62.48 percent. Greaves Finance continued its growth trajectory with Assets Under Management crossing INR 560 crore, an increase from INR521 crore in Mar’26; and expanded its reach by 12 more locations. During the quarter, Greaves Cotton subscribed to the rights issue of INR 50 crore to support the company’s next phase of growth. Outlook The Company remains focused on strengthening execution across its core businesses while continuing to invest in technology, international expansion and future-ready opportunities under the Greaves.Next strategy. Supported by a strong balance sheet, disciplined capital allocation and a diversified engineering portfolio, Greaves Cotton remains well positioned to deliver sustainable long-term growth while navigating an evolving macroeconomic environment. The Company will continue to focus on operational excellence, innovation and customer-centric solutions to create long-term value for all its stakeholders.

The growing preference for healthier cooking has made air fryers an increasingly popular choice in Indian kitchens. As expectations from the category continue to evolve, consumers are looking for appliances that combine healthier cooking with dependable performance and everyday convenience. Recognising these evolving needs, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., India’s trusted name in home innovation, introduces the Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer with Nutriguard Technology, designed to make healthier choices easier for modern households.   Crompton Ameo Edge Air Fryer   Air fryers have steadily found their way into Indian homes as a smarter alternative to traditional cooking. Today, consumers expect more than just low-oil cooking—they are looking for appliances that save time, simplify meal preparation and deliver dependable performance without compromising on taste. As awareness around healthier cooking continues to grow, preserving the nutrients of food has become equally important in shaping the overall cooking experience.   Built around Crompton’s Nutriguard Technology, the Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer features an innovative edge-to-edge design that maximises cooking space, delivering a spacious interior within a slim footprint. Separately, its metal interior enhances heat retention to help create golden, crunchy dishes while helping retain the food’s flavour and nutritional goodness and minimising residual odours during cooking. Complementing these are SilentPro Technology, an interactive digital display with 10 preset menus, a see-through window with lamp, and dishwasher-safe components that make everyday cooking quieter, simpler and more convenient.   Key Features of the Crompton Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer The Ameo Edge 5L comes equipped with thoughtfully designed features that support healthier and more convenient everyday cooking: Edge-to-Edge Design: Maximises cooking space with a spacious interior in a slim footprint, making it ideal for modern kitchens. Nutriguard Technology with Metal Interior: Delivers enhanced heat retention for crispier, evenly cooked food while helping preserve the nutrients of ingredients and reducing residual odours during cooking. Oil-Free Cooking: Enables healthier everyday meals with significantly less oil. SilentPro Technology: Operates at under 52 dB, making it suitable for use at any time of the day. Interactive Digital Display with 10 Preset Menus: Offers ease of use through intuitive controls and preset cooking options. See-Through Window with Lamp: Allows users to monitor the cooking process without interrupting it.   Speaking about the new launch, Anand Kumar N, Business Unit Head – Kitchen Appliances, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, “Air fryers have become an integral part of healthier cooking for many Indian households, but as the category evolves, consumers expect more than just low-oil cooking. At Crompton, we have developed the Ameo Edge to address these evolving expectations by combining healthier cooking with dependable performance and everyday convenience. At the centre of this innovation, is our Nutriguard Technology, designed to support superior heat and nutrient retention. Together with intuitive features that simplify everyday use, we are confident the Ameo Edge will become a valuable addition to modern kitchens while making healthier choices easier for consumers.”   The Crompton Ameo Edge 5L Air Fryer will be available across leading retail outlets (MOR/GT) priced at Rs.10,999/-. Designed for health-conscious families and working professionals, the appliance brings together dependable performance, healthier cooking and everyday convenience, making it a valuable addition to modern kitchens.   About Crompton With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers. Beyond its consumer portfolio, Crompton also has a robust B2B presence in the Lighting segment, delivering advanced and energy-efficient solutions for commercial and industrial applications. In 2025, Crompton became the first lighting company to receive the GreenPro certification for its B2B lighting solution, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Strengthening its foothold in the renewable energy space, the company has forayed into solar rooftops—representing a significant step forward in its contribution to India’s evolving clean energy landscape. With solar solutions spanning lighting, pumps, and rooftops, Crompton continues to lead as a responsible and future-ready brand in sustainable energy.   The company’s consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the company’s storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of India’s Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.

Every institution has defining moments, but the ones that leave a lasting legacy are shaped by a vision carried forward across generations. Long before athletes from 14 nations arrived in Mumbai for the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash, Shri K J Somaiya believed education should create opportunities that extended beyond the classroom. That belief shaped an institution where learning was never confined to academics alone, but embraced culture, sport and experiences that prepare students for life. Over the decades, that vision has been nurtured by people who believed in it, growing through shared dreams, collective effort and trust. As Somaiya Vidyavihar University inaugurated the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash, that journey reached another significant milestone.   Somaiya Vidyavihar University welcomes the world to the campus   Over the next seven days, Brazil, the People’s Republic of China, Czechia, Spain, France, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Hong Kong China, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, South Africa, Singapore, Switzerland and the host nation India will compete on Somaiya Vidyavihar University’s World Squash Federation-certified courts. Yet the significance of the championship extends beyond the competition itself.   For the athletes, it is an opportunity to represent their countries on one of the world’s premier stages for university sport. More than 120 student volunteers from colleges across India, including 60–70 from Mumbai, came together to support the championship alongside thousands of young people on campus. A world championship is no longer an event happening elsewhere; it is unfolding right here in Mumbai at their very own Somaiya Vidyavihar University. It is an opportunity to witness international competition firsthand, contribute to an event of global significance and recognise that a university campus can be a place where world-class sporting moments are experienced, organised and created.   Somaiya Vidyavihar University has consistently invested in sporting infrastructure, athlete development and competitive pathways that enable students to pursue excellence in both academics and sport. From hosting national university championships and developing World Squash Federation-certified courts to supporting the Indian university squash contingent, it has created an environment where aspiring athletes can compete at the highest levels while continuing their education. Hosting the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash is therefore not an isolated milestone, but the culmination of years of sustained institutional commitment to university sport.   For Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the championship carries an equally personal significance. Having played squash for more than four decades, including during his years as a student overseas, he has long believed that a sport often associated with private clubs and limited access should be accessible within a university campus. His conviction has shaped the University’s approach to sport, where every student is encouraged to participate in at least one sporting discipline and the world-class Somaiya Sports Academy, Eklavya, has been developed to ensure access and opportunity are available to all. Hosting the championship represents not only another institutional milestone, but also another step in fulfilling a promise that began decades ago.   “When I went abroad to study, my grandfather asked me to build a university like the one I wanted to study in. Hosting the FISU World University Championship Squash is one more step in fulfilling that promise. Sport teaches us far more than winning. It teaches us to compete with ourselves, to work together, to lead, to lose with grace and to grow as individuals. Those are opportunities every student deserves. That is why sport is an integral part of education at Somaiya.” – Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University.   As squash prepares for its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, events such as the FISU World University Championship create important pathways for student-athletes to compete internationally while continuing their education. They also reflect the increasingly important role universities play in developing sporting talent, investing in world-class infrastructure and strengthening the future of sport. Hosting the championship reinforces both Somaiya Vidyavihar University’s commitment to university sport and India’s growing stature as a destination for international sporting events.   Welcoming the athletes, officials and delegates, Professor Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, Association of Indian Universities, reflected on the role universities play in shaping not only accomplished scholars but responsible citizens. Drawing upon the story of Eklavya, he described education as a journey where determination triumphs over privilege. He reaffirmed that sport remains one of the greatest classrooms for resilience, teamwork and character.   In India’s ancient tradition, sport has always been far more than a means to stay fit or compete. It is a way to discover one’s potential, build character and realise one’s true purpose. Sport teaches us how to work together, grow together and achieve together, lessons that extend far beyond the playing field. That is why I believe every university should make sport an integral part of education, helping students develop not only as scholars, but also as responsible individuals and members of society.”   Representing FISU, Martin Dalton, Executive Committee Senior Member, reflected on the journey that brought the championship to Mumbai and acknowledged the partnership between Somaiya Vidyavihar University, the Association of Indian Universities and the many organisations that worked together to make the event possible. He commended the University’s commitment to delivering an international championship that reflects the highest standards of university sport and encouraged every athlete to embrace not only the competition but also the cultural experience that India has to offer.“Right from the onset of the event’s attribution, the organising committee, led by our gracious host, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, supported by the Association of Indian Universities and the many event partners, have shared one dream, epitomised by the slogan, ‘Smashing Barriers, Uniting Nations.’ My FISU colleagues and I truly appreciate the efforts taken to make the event one of the best FISU World Championships held this year.”   Declaring the championship officially open, Shri Venugopal Reddy, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher and Technical Education Department, Government of Maharashtra, welcomed the international contingent to Mumbai and described the event as an expression of India’s enduring philosophy

Marking 77 years of fragrance excellence, Cycle Pure Agarbathi, the world’s largest manufacturer of agarbathi, today unveiled its new festive product portfolio in Chennai, reinforcing its commitment to preserving India’s spiritual traditions while continuously innovating to meet the evolving aspirations of consumers.   Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, NR Group unveils Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s new festive portfolio as the brand celebrates 77 years of fragrance excellence With an annual production of over 12 billion incense sticks, Cycle Pure Agarbathi today carries the fragrance of faith to millions of homes across the globe, answering nearly 6 billion prayers every year. For over seven decades, the company has remained an integral part of India’s spiritual and cultural landscape, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to create meaningful fragrance experiences.   Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, NR Group, addresses the media during the launch of Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s new festive portfolio in Chennai The newly launched portfolio includes Cycle Stem Sambrani, Navin Puja Ghee, Good Luck Premium Incense (Lavender, Sandal, Musk and Kasturi) and Cycle Pure Cold Pressed Edible Gingelly Oil, reflecting the company’s diverse offerings across incense, puja essentials and wellness products. Designed to enrich everyday rituals and festive celebrations, the portfolio combines quality, authenticity and innovation while staying rooted in India’s timeless traditions. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, NR Group, said “For 77 years, our journey has been guided by a simple philosophy to honour tradition while continuously evolving with changing consumer expectations. Fragrance has always held a special place in Indian homes, and our responsibility is to preserve that emotional connection while creating products that are relevant for today’s consumers. Every innovation we introduce is built on the foundation of quality, authenticity and sustainability, ensuring we continue to remain a trusted part of everyday rituals and festive celebrations.” Highlighting the company’s growing relationship with Tamil Nadu, Mr. Ranga added that the state is not only an important market but also a key partner in Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s vision of creating meaningful social impact. Beyond business, the company has been actively supporting community development initiatives that empower lives and create lasting change. As part of its regional Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives in Tamil Nadu, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has been supporting the education and holistic development of differently abled girls for the past four years. What began as a meaningful partnership has today evolved into a milestone initiative, enabling 40 differently abled girls every year to pursue their education with confidence and dignity. The programme reflects the company’s commitment to building an inclusive society by creating opportunities for education, independence and self-reliance, while setting an inspiring example of empowerment through sustained community engagement. Tamil Nadu continues to be one of the company’s most significant markets, reflecting the state’s rich spiritual heritage, deep-rooted cultural traditions and discerning consumers. As part of its continued growth strategy, Cycle Pure Agarbathi is further strengthening its presence across the state through an expanding product portfolio and enhanced availability across traditional retail, modern trade, e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, ensuring consumers have easier access to products that enrich their daily rituals and festive celebrations. With a presence in over 75 countries, a legacy spanning 77 years, and a purpose-driven approach that blends innovation with sustainability, Cycle Pure Agarbathi continues to strengthen its position as a trusted household brand, taking India’s fragrance traditions to the world while positively impacting communities through meaningful social initiatives. About NR Group The Mysuru-based NR Group was founded by Shri N. Ranga Rao in 1948. A visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, Shri Ranga Rao created Cycle Pure Agarbathi, which has grown to become the world’s largest-selling incense stick brand. From a home-grown enterprise, NR Group has evolved into a diversified business conglomerate with a strong presence in India and international markets. The Group has diversified into functional air care products (Lia), wellness home fragrance products (IRIS), floral extracts (NESSO), and Rangsons Technologies. Today, it has evolved into an “Agarbathi to Aerospace” conglomerate, manufacturing components for defence helicopters. Through its philanthropic arm, NR Foundation, the Group continues to contribute meaningfully to society. Today, NR Group is managed by the third generation of the Ranga Rao family.

Asset Vantage, an AI-led wealth-tech SaaS platform built by a family office for family offices and part of the UNIDEL Group, today announced the appointment of Nicole Eberhardt as its Global Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2026. Nicole, who previously served as Asset Vantage’s Managing Director, North America, will lead the company’s next phase of global growth, product innovation, and market expansion.   Nicole Eberhardt, Global Chief Executive Officer, Asset Vantage Today, Asset Vantage supports more than 400 families across 10 countries, helping manage over USD 400 billion in assets through a unified platform that brings together data aggregation, accounting, portfolio reporting and analytics, and document management. The platform provides family offices and their trusted advisors, including Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and Multi-Family Offices (MFOs), with a single source of truth across entities, currencies, and asset classes. By bringing together the general ledger and the investments book, it delivers secure, audit-ready data while ensuring clients retain complete ownership and control of their information. In addition, the platform safeguards highly sensitive financial information while supporting the governance needs of modern family offices. Nicole’s appointment comes as family offices navigate increasing complexity across global investments, governance, reporting and cross-border structures, while artificial intelligence reshapes the future of wealth management. She brings more than 25 years of experience in financial services technology. An accountant by training, Nicole has spent her career building and scaling the accounting and reporting platforms relied upon by family offices, alternative investment managers and their trusted advisors. Sunil K. Dalal, Founder & Chairman, UNIDEL Group, said, “Asset Vantage was founded on a simple belief – that family offices deserve technology built around their real-time financial operations needs. As we look to the future, our ambition is to evolve on the back of our deep domain expertise, continuous innovation, and enduring client trust. Nicole embodies these values. She brings the experience, judgement and leadership to guide Asset Vantage through its next phase of growth while remaining true to the principles on which it was built.”  Nicole Eberhardt, Global Chief Executive Officer, Asset Vantage, said, “Clients today expect more than technology – they need a trusted partner with stable ownership that helps them navigate increasing complexity with confidence. Our focus will be on continuing investments in a platform that gives clients greater clarity, control and agility as their needs evolve, and helping family offices, complex asset allocators, CPA firms, and MFOs, manage wealth with confidence across generations. I am excited to lead Asset Vantage into its next chapter, continuing to strengthen our capabilities and create long-term value for family offices around the world.” Originally developed to manage the family office of UNIDEL’s founder, Asset Vantage remains one of the few platforms built on a native general ledger architecture rather than disconnected reporting systems. By combining accounting and reporting in a single platform, it enables family offices to operate with greater transparency, efficiency, and confidence. About Asset Vantage Asset Vantage, a UNIDEL Company, founded in 2011, empowers families and their trusted advisors with integrated solutions that deliver deep insights into investments and enhanced control over their financial legacy. Powered by integrated general ledger capabilities and advanced performance reporting, the platform delivers a complete, real-time view of assets, liabilities, and overall wealth, enabling principals and their trusted advisors to make confident, informed decisions. Today, Asset Vantage supports more than 400 families across 10+ countries and helps oversee more than USD 400 billion in assets. For more information, visit www.assetvantage.com.

Inspired by the vision of our Hon’ble Prime Minister to promote organ donation across the country, and for the occasion of National Organ Donation Day on August 3, East Coast Hospitals, Puducherry, organised a large-scale Organ Donation Awareness Drive to inspire young people to pledge their organs and become ambassadors for this life-saving cause.    Address by Dr. Venkatram M, Director & Public Awareness Rally flagged off by Dr. N Murugesan, Founder Chairman   More than 600 students from the East Coast educational institutions participated in the programme, which combined awareness sessions, interactive discussions and a public rally.   Addressing the students, Dr. M. Venkatram, Director, East Coast Hospitals, spoke passionately about the importance of organ donation. He said that while the world marvels at Artificial Intelligence, robots and space technology, the most sophisticated machine ever created is the human body.   “After our lifetime, the greatest gift we can leave behind is the gift of life. One organ donor can save up to eight lives and improve the quality of life of nearly 100 others through the donation of tissues such as skin, bone, corneas and heart valves,” he said.   Dr. Venkatram also shared East Coast Hospitals’ experience in advanced kidney transplantation, including leading the team that performed on Puducherry’s youngest kidney transplant recipient, and urged students to become champions of organ donation within their own families and communities.   The interactive session concluded with students enthusiastically raising questions, which were answered by Dr. N. Murugesan, Founder Chairman of East Coast Hospitals and Founder of the Dr. Blue India Foundation. Widely regarded as the Father of Nephrology in Puducherry, Dr. Murugesan performed the region’s first ever kidney transplant and was instrumental in establishing nephrology and dialysis services in Government hospitals across the region.   Speaking to the students, Dr. Murugesan emphasised that awareness is the first step towards saving lives. He encouraged every student to understand the importance of organ donation and motivate family members and friends to take the Organ Donation Pledge.   He also spoke about his long-standing research on preventive kidney care, which has led to a range of patented low-sodium salt substitutes aimed at helping prevent lifestyle-related kidney, heart and blood pressure disorders.   Organ Donation Pledge forms were distributed to all the participants. Students who successfully motivate family members and friends to take the pledge will receive Certificates of Appreciation from East Coast Hospitals, while the Top Three participants will be recognised with special prizes.   The programme was also addressed by Dr. Rajan, Dean of the East Coast educational institutions, and the medical officer who has shifted to East Coast Hospitals from USA. Their engaging talks, enriched with real-life experiences and inspiring anecdotes, kept the students actively involved throughout the session.   The awareness programme included Dr. N. Murugesan flagging off an Organ Donation Awareness Rally, during which hundreds of students marched through the streets of Puducherry carrying placards and spreading the message that organ donation has the power to give many people a second chance at life.   As one of the leading centres for kidney transplantation in the region, East Coast Hospitals believes that creating awareness about organ donation is as important as performing successful transplant surgeries. Through initiatives such as these, the hospital remains committed to promoting kidney health, encouraging organ donation and helping build a more informed and compassionate society

Ask most Indian car buyers whether they want a manual or an automatic and the answer is still the clutch pedal. Manual gearboxes account for 72 percent of used car sales in 2025, against 28 percent for automatics, according to the Gears of Growth 2025 report. It is roughly a three-to-one preference, and it has held even as automatics have become cheaper and more common in new cars.   But the single number hides the more interesting story. The report breaks transmission preference down by age, gender and region, and every one of those cuts shows the same thing: the manual majority is real, and it is also starting to erode from the edges.   Manual or automatic: what do used car buyers in India actually choose? Buyers under 35 show a higher preference for automatics than the market average. Buyers over 45 stay strongly with manuals. The 35 to 45 group sits in between, with no firm tilt either way. In other words, the younger the buyer, the likelier the automatic, which tells you where the market is heading as this cohort ages into its peak earning years.   Gender pulls in the same direction. Women buyers show a higher-than-average preference for automatics. Men skew manual, though the report notes automatic adoption among male buyers is rising too. Geography completes the picture. Metro markets have a significantly higher automatic share, while non-metro India stays firmly manual.     Source: Cars24 x Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 Report   Why do most used car buyers in India still choose manual? Three things keep the manual in front. Cost is the first. A used manual car is usually cheaper to buy and cheaper to keep running, and it matches the value-first mindset of the non-metro markets that make up the bulk of demand. Familiarity is the second. Most Indians learned to drive on a manual, and a first-time used car buyer tends to stick with what they can already handle. The third is resale. A manual sells to a wider pool of buyers across more of the country, so it moves faster when the owner decides to let it go.   The report links the metro automatic tilt to the same models that lead metro demand. Models like the Maruti Baleno and the Honda City sell strongly in cities partly because buyers there accept newer model years and convenience features, automatic gearboxes among them. Outside the metros, demand concentrates on cars built to be cheap and simple, the used Swift Dzire, Wagon R, i10, Grand i10 and Alto, most of which move as manuals.   Why are used car buyers switching to automatics? The change is being driven by how and where India drives today. The report points to traffic conditions, driving convenience and changing lifestyles as the forces pushing buyers toward automatics. Anyone who commutes daily in Bengaluru or Mumbai traffic knows the appeal of a car that does not need a clutch worked a thousand times a trip.   Younger buyers feel this most, and they are the ones entering the market in growing numbers. As the cars they bought new in the last few years cycle into the used market, automatic supply in the resale channel grows too. The 28 percent share looks more like a starting point than a settled ceiling.   Are used automatics riskier to buy than manuals? A manual gearbox and clutch are mechanically simple and cheap to inspect and repair. An automatic, whether a torque converter, an AMT, a CVT or a dual-clutch unit, is harder to assess and costs far more to rebuild if it fails. The fear is real and specific: you buy an automatic, it drives beautifully on the test drive, and weeks later you are handed a repair bill several times what the same fault would cost on a manual. A short drive will not reveal a unit that is a few thousand kilometres from trouble.   This is exactly the fear a proper inspection and warranty are built to remove, which is why they matter more on an automatic than on a manual. Cars24’s 300-point inspection tests full transmission operation inside a process that runs over 10 hours per car, refined across more than 1 crore inspections since 2015. Every car bought comes with a 30-day repair assurance that covers the transmission with no deductible, and the transmission also sits inside the lifetime warranty cover. Bought this way, a used automatic stops being a gamble on the gearbox and becomes a car whose costliest part has been checked and is covered.   Manual or automatic: which should you actually buy? There is no single right answer, only the right answer for how you drive. If most of your driving is stop-start city traffic, an automatic earns its slightly higher price through the daily comfort alone. If you cover long highway distances, drive mostly outside the big cities, or want the lowest running cost and the easiest resale, a manual still makes plain sense and comes with the widest choice of cars on the market.   One extra point for automatics: because the gearbox is the costly part to repair, weigh the inspection report and the warranty terms more heavily than you would on a manual. On a manual, a worn clutch is a routine, affordable fix; on an automatic, the equivalent failure is the expensive one, so ‘checked and covered’ is worth paying attention to.   Note: All figures in this article are drawn from Cars24’s own Gears of Growth 2025 report, original research based entirely on Cars24 first-party transaction data as of December 2025. Transmission preference refers to the manual or automatic split of used car transactions on the platform. No external data sources are used; the figures are proprietary to Cars24.