August 2026

When the skies turn grey and the rain begins to fall, cravings inevitably turn towards something warm, comforting and delicious. This monsoon, give those rainy-day favorites a wholesome twist with California walnuts. Their satisfying crunch, rich flavour and versatility make them an easy addition to everything from crispy snacks and hearty bites to comforting treats. So, put the kettle on, gather around the table, and make the most of the season with these delicious walnut-inspired recipes made for rainy-day indulgence.   Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Aioli   Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Aioli   Ingredients California Walnut-Crusted Mozzarella Bites 2 cups California walnuts 14-15 mozzarella balls (bocconcini) 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs 1 ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons onion powder 2 teaspoons garlic powder 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning 4 eggs, beaten 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Vegetable oil for frying, about 4 cups Sun-Dried Tomato and California Walnut Aioli ½ cup finely ground California walnuts ½ cup water 1 cup mayonnaise 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 6 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped   Preparations For the Ground California Walnuts 1. Place walnuts into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped and texture is similar to breadcrumbs. 2. Measure 1 cup of ground walnuts for use in mozzarella bites and reserve remaining ½ cup for use in aioli. For the Mozzarella Bites 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2. Dry mozzarella balls with paper towels to remove excess moisture. 3. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup ground walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and spices. 4. In a shallow or medium-sized bowl, beat eggs together until combined. Add flour to a separate shallow or medium-sized bowl. 5. One at a time, dredge each mozzarella ball in the flour, followed by dipping in the egg, coating completely. Shake off excess egg, then roll in the walnut and panko mixture until fully coated. 6. Transfer the mozzarella bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes prior to frying. 7. Heat oil in a large, deep skillet to 180 – 190°C. 8. Remove mozzarella bites from the freezer. While still cold, fry bites in small batches until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove fried mozzarella bites from the oil and place onto a paper towel-lined tray. 9. Serve immediately. Mozzarella bites can be kept warm in a 120°C oven until ready to serve.   California Walnut Loaded Roast Potatoes   California Walnut Loaded Roast Potatoes   Ingredients 1.2 kg potatoes, cut into chunks 8 tablespoons oil 100g California walnuts, chopped 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 3 sprigs rosemary, leaves chopped 50g Parmigiana Reggiano, finely grated ½ x 25g pack parsley, chopped   Preparations 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. 2. Cook the potatoes in boiling salted water for 8-10 minutes until they begin to soften round the edges. Drain and return to the pan. Toss in 3 tablespoons oil. 3. Place half the walnuts in a food processor and blitz to give a fine crumb texture, mix in the garlic, rosemary, Parmesan and half the remaining walnuts, season well. 4. Toss into the potatoes and transfer to a large roasting tin, spreading them out evenly. 5. Drizzle over the remaining oil and roast for 30 minutes. Turn the potatoes and add the remaining walnuts and cook for a further 5-10 minutes until golden. 6. Sprinkle with parsley to serve.   Dahi Walnut Kebab   Dahi Walnut Kebab – Chef Abinas Nayak Ingredients 1 cup hung curd 1 teaspoon of brown onion paste 1 teaspoon of roasted California walnut paste (Blend handful of roasted walnuts with little bit of water and a teaspoon of walnut) 3 teaspoons of grated paneer 2 teaspoons of grated cheese 1/2 teaspoon of chopped coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of mint leaves 1-2 chopped green chillies 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin and fennel 1/2 teaspoon of finely chopped ginger. Salt as per taste   Preparations 1. Mix everything to make a thick paste. Keep it in fridge for half an hour. 2. To make walnut crust or crumb, roughly blend roasted walnuts and spread in a flat tray. 3. To finish take a dollop of Dahi Kebab mixture and coat it with prepared walnut crust. In hot seasoned tawa, shallow fry the Dahi Kebabs with ghee. 4. Enjoy hot with chutney of your choice.

HDFC Life has enabled an expedited claim settlement framework for families that have been impacted by the recent floods in Assam. A life insurance claim can be initiated by nominees or legal heirs of policyholders by simply providing proof of death issued by the Local Government, Police or Hospitals.    Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life   For further support, claimants can connect with HDFC Life via the below touch points:   Dedicated claim helpline: 022-68446529 Call Centre Number: 022-68446530 WhatsApp: +91 8291890569 Email:service@hdfclife.com Nodal Officer: Ruma Konwar | 8876517557   Claimants may also choose to visit any of HDFC Life’s branch offices. The branch addresses for affected areas are given below:   Jorhat: 2nd Floor, Sneha Heights, New Balibat, Jorhat, Assam  Sivasagar: 2nd Floor, Jagannath Plaza, Transport Tiniali Sivasagar, Assam  Golaghat: Ground Floor, Om Arav Building, Thana Road, Golaghat, Assam   Sameer Yogishwar, Chief Operating Officer, HDFC Life said, “We at HDFC Life are committed to stand by our policyholders’ families who are impacted by this calamity. We will ensure that each claim request, received from anyone impacted by the floods in Assam, is treated as priority to ensure a smooth and hassle-free payout.” For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn

VinFast‘s new Total Cost of Ownership Calculator helps buyers compare the long-term costs of EVs and gasoline vehicles, turning one of electric mobility’s biggest promises into personalized figures that support smarter purchasing and financial decisions.   VF 6 Earth delivers significant potential savings in total ownership costs compared with a comparable gasoline vehicle in India   In this day and age, a car buyer comparing models can find horsepower, cargo space, and safety ratings in minutes. What is much harder to see is which vehicle will actually cost less to own after years of loan payments, fuel bills, and maintenance. Those factors make up a vehicle’s total cost of ownership (TCO), a metric that encompasses all expenses incurred throughout the ownership period.   That information gap has become increasingly important as electric vehicles move into the mainstream. While EVs are widely promoted for their lower operating costs, consumers can still struggle to translate those promises into their own finances. For example, how much can an EV really save after five years? The answer depends on how far people drive, how long they keep the vehicle, and even how they choose to finance it.   VinFast is betting that making those calculations easier and more transparent could help more buyers make the switch.   The Vietnamese EV maker has introduced a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator, initially across its Asian markets, giving consumers a way to compare the long-term economics of electric vehicles with gasoline cars and even rival EVs based on their own driving habits. Rather than comparing sticker prices alone, consumers can see the cumulative financial impact of ownership, including financing and running costs, over several years.   On the web-based tool, users simply enter basic information such as the vehicle model, monthly mileage, battery ownership option, and expected ownership period to receive a personalized cost projection. Within seconds, the calculator estimates monthly payments, monthly energy costs, and total ownership costs before showing how much an owner could save over the chosen period compared with comparable internal combustion vehicles and even other EVs.   For example, a buyer in the India selecting a VF 6 Earth, driving 2,000 km per month over five years, would see an estimated total ownership cost of INR 1,782,655. Under the same assumptions, the calculator estimates a comparable gasoline vehicle would cost INR 2,464,371 over the same period, representing potential savings of INR 681,716, or about 28%.   Beyond product marketing, the TCO tool also functions as a financial planning tool, helping households, commuters, and commercial users forecast transportation expenses before making a purchase. That approach is particularly relevant in emerging EV markets, where energy-saving technologies often face adoption challenges because of higher upfront purchase prices despite offering long-term financial benefits. Consumers may not always realize that, over time, reduced energy consumption can offset much or even all of that initial price premium.   Research suggests that making those savings more transparent can influence purchasing decisions. One survey found that simply showing consumers five-year fuel savings had little effect on vehicle preferences, whereas providing total cost of ownership information increased the likelihood that buyers of small and mid-sized cars would choose hybrid and battery electric vehicles over gasoline models.   More recently, Deloitte’s 2026 Global Automotive Consumer Study found that 52% of U.S. consumers considering an EV cited lower fuel costs as their primary motivation, while 40% said overall vehicle cost remains one of their biggest concerns. The findings suggest buyers are increasingly evaluating vehicles based on lifetime ownership economics rather than purchase price alone.   For automakers, that means helping consumers understand lifetime ownership economics may become as important as communicating battery range or performance.   For VinFast, the calculator reflects that evolution. Instead of asking consumers to take its claims of lower ownership costs at face value, the company is giving them a tool to test different scenarios themselves, turning one of the industry’s most common selling points into something measurable, personalized, and easier to act on.

Every Raksha Bandhan celebrates a bond built on memories, traditions and shared moments. While families may now live across different cities and states, the festival continues to bring siblings together through Rakhis, gifts and heartfelt gestures.   Blue Dart celebrates Raksha Bandhan with #YaadonKaBandhan campaign   This festive season, Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation and distribution company, is celebrating these cherished connections through its #YaadonKaBandhan campaign. As part of the campaign, Blue Dart has introduced special Rakhi Express shipping offers to help customers send festive packages conveniently across India.   Valid from 27 July to 28 August 2026, the offer provides special flat rates on Domestic Priority shipments weighing up to 2.5 kg and discounts of up to 50% on eligible international shipments weighing between 0.5 kg and 3 kg. Customers can use the service to send Rakhis, personalised gifts and festive packages across Blue Dart’s extensive domestic network.   Through the campaign, Blue Dart aims to make festive shipping more accessible while ensuring that every package is handled with care and delivered with the speed, reliability and precision associated with its express network.   Offer Details*: Period: 27th July to 23rd August 0.5 Kg → Rs. 200 1 Kg → Rs. 400 1.5 Kg → Rs. 600 2 Kg → Rs. 800 2.5 Kg → Rs. 1000   Period: 24th August to 28th August 0.5 Kg → Rs. 300 1 Kg → Rs. 500 1.5 Kg → Rs. 700 2 Kg → Rs. 900 2.5 Kg → Rs. 1100   *The offer is applicable only to Domestic Priority shipments. Taxes and other applicable charges, if any, will be additional. Terms and conditions apply.   International Shipments (27th July – 28th August) Campaign Discount → Up to 50% Weight Break → 0.5 Kg – 3 Kg   *Custom Duty, Taxes and other applicable charges, if any, will be additional. Terms and conditions apply.   As families increasingly celebrate festivals across distances, dependable logistics plays an important role in ensuring that traditions continue uninterrupted. Supported by its integrated air and ground network, Blue Dart continues to connect people, businesses and communities across the country through reliable and time-definite delivery solutions.   The limited-period offer is available across Blue Dart–DHL retail stores and Franchisee Collection Centres. Customers can also avail of free doorstep pickup by booking through Blue Dart’s website or Customer Care, subject to service availability.   For further details, customers may visit their nearest Blue Dart–DHL retail store, contact Blue Dart Customer Care at 022 4061 1234, or email customerservice@bluedart.com.   For more information or to book a shipment, visit www.bluedart.com.

Peter England today announced the launch of “VYBE”, a contemporary menswear sub-brand shaped by how a new generation dresses today. With modern fits, effortless styling and accessible prices, VYBE brings a more relaxed and individual expression to Peter England’s British-rooted, dressed-up sensibility. The result feels current and expressive, yet unmistakably Peter England.   From L-R: India’s Leading artist Tricksingh with Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England and THE IMBACHI   The launch introduces a range of overshirts, shackets, structured polos, oversized T-shirts, cargos, denim, Korean-fit trousers and coordinated separates. Designed with an emphasis on comfort, versatility and ease of styling, the range brings together elevated essentials that can be worn across multiple occasions. Starting at Rs 1,200, with every piece priced below Rs 2,000, VYBE makes contemporary fashion accessible without compromising on quality, craftsmanship or design.   To mark the launch, Peter England has introduced VYBE Verified, an original music-led campaign conceptualised by Ogilvy, featuring independent artists Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI. The campaign reimagines what it means to be “verified”, celebrating individuals who trust their own instincts, express themselves with confidence and define success on their own terms.   Commenting on the launch, Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England, added: “VYBE is an important step in further deepening Peter Englands’ relevance with Gen Z and bringing younger consumers into the brand. Contemporary product, accessible pricing and a culture-led campaign create a strong platform for future growth while keeping the proposition distinctly Peter England ”   The artists collaborated through a series of studio jam sessions to create an original track inspired by the brand’s creative idea. The partnership culminates in a music video that brings together fashion and music, positioning VYBE Verified as an expression of the confidence and creative energy that shape the brand.   Commenting on the vision behind VYBE, Priyank Karanam, Creative Director, Peter England, said: “The creative idea behind VYBE was simple: to make dressing well feel effortless. Relaxed fits, fresh styling and considered details create looks that feel young and individual, while retaining the put-together character of Peter England.”   Peter England created an immersive VYBE launch experience at its Indiranagar store in Bengaluru, bringing fashion, music and culture together. Designed as a content-friendly destination for creators and consumers alike, the space featured VYBE Verified branding across multiple touchpoints, inviting guests to engage with the brand and create their own interpretation of the campaign. The experience was brought to life through live performances by Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI as they unveiled the collection.   The first drop of VYBE is now available across 50 Peter England stores nationwide and is also available on Peterengland.com and Myntra.    About Peter England Peter England is one of India’s most loved and largest menswear brands, selling more than 14 million garments every year across 1000+ exclusive stores, 3,500+ multi-brand outlets, and 800+ towns, along with a strong e-commerce presence. Launched in India in 1997, the brand has evolved from its foundation in honest shirts into a complete lifestyle offering across formalwear, casualwear, denim, celebration wear, and accessories. Peter England is committed to making quality and style accessible for every occasion.   About Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited (ABLBL), a part of the Aditya Birla Group, is a leading branded apparel company with a comprehensive portfolio of marquee lifestyle brands. As of June 30, 2026, the Company operates a retail footprint of ~5 million sq. ft., comprising 3,362 exclusive brand outlets, presence across 39,500+ multi-brand outlets, and over 6,500+ shop-in-shops in department stores across the country. The Company’s brand portfolio includes India’s most established and trusted names – Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly and Peter England – each with a legacy of over 25 years. These brands have consistently delivered sustained growth, driven by a sharp focus on design-led innovation, category expansion and operational excellence across product lines spanning formal, casual and occasion wear. ABLBL has built a strong presence in the innerwear and athleisure market through Van Heusen Innerwear, which has rapidly scaled its distribution network across India. The Company’s portfolio is further enhanced through strategic partnerships with leading international brands including Simon Carter, American Eagle and Reebok. American Eagle has emerged as one of India’s most preferred premium denim brands, while Reebok – transitioned under the Company’s management in 2022 – has expanded its footprint across multiple channels. Simon Carter continues to strengthen its position in the premium menswear segment through its distinctive design language and curated collections.   For Further information, please contact: Janet Arole | AVP & Head, Corporate Communications, janet.arole@abfrl.adityabirla.com.

 The vivo S2 marks the return of the brand’s S-series to India after nearly seven years, arriving with a curved display, a large battery, and a design-first approach aimed at younger buyers. Ahead of its India debut, here is how the vivo S2 is shaping up against some of the latest vivo smartphones already turning heads in 2026, and how you can bring one home on Easy EMIs.   vivo S2 First Look: Explore its design, features, camera and performance, and see how the latest vivo S2 compares with vivo smartphones in 2026 vivo S2: The first look The vivo S2 will launch in India on 6 August 2026, and early reports point to a phone built around a bold display and all-day battery life.   Specification vivo S2 (expected) Display 6.83-inch 3D curved AMOLED, 120Hz, up to 3,000 nits Chipset MediaTek Dimensity 7360 Turbo RAM 8GB Rear camera 50MP + 2MP Front camera 32MP Battery 7,050 mAh with 44W fast charging and wireless charging   The standout here is the pairing of a large, curved screen with a 7,050 mAh battery, a combination that should suit anyone who streams, scrolls, or games through the day without reaching for a charger too often. The dual rear setup, backed by 4K video on both cameras, gives it a genuine edge for casual content creation, while wireless charging is a rare addition at this segment. vivo V80 5G: The next V-series contender The V-series has built its reputation on camera performance, and the upcoming vivo V80 5G looks set to continue that trend with a sharper display and a bigger battery than its predecessor.   Specification vivo V80 5G (expected) Display 6.59-inch AMOLED, 144Hz Chipset Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 RAM 8GB Rear camera 50MP + 50MP + 8MP (Zeiss optics) Front camera 50MP Battery 7,200 mAh with 90W fast charging   Where the vivo S2 leans on screen size and battery capacity, the V80 5G looks to bring a faster refresh rate and a Zeiss-tuned triple camera into the conversation, making it a strong pick for buyers who prioritise photography alongside everyday performance. vivo X300 FE: The compact flagship benchmark For a sense of where vivo’s flagship ambitions sit, the vivo X300 FE offers a useful reference point. Launched on 6th May 2026, it brings a 6.31-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and 12GB RAM for smooth gaming and multitasking.   Specification vivo X300 FE Display 6.31-inch AMOLED, 120Hz Chipset Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 RAM 12GB Rear camera 50MP + 50MP + 8MP Front camera 50MP Battery 6,500 mAh with 90W fast charging   The X300 FE proves that a compact body needn’t mean compromise, packing flagship silicon and a versatile triple camera into a phone that’s easier to handle one-handed. It sets a useful benchmark for what buyers can expect as they move up vivo’s 2026 lineup. Pricing at a glance Early pricing indications place these three phones across a wide spread, giving buyers options at different budgets.   Model Price in India Starting Easy EMI vivo S2 Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 45,000 (expected) Rs. 830/month vivo V80 5G Around Rs. 61,999 (expected) Rs. 830/month vivo X300 FE Rs. 79,999 onwards Rs. 830/month Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Shopping made easier with Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance Whichever vivo smartphone catches your eye, spreading the cost makes it easier to own. With an Easy EMI Loan offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 5 lakh, or an Insta EMI Card offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 3 lakh, both with tenures between 3 and 60 months, upgrading your phone need not mean paying the full price upfront. Buying on Easy EMIs from a Bajaj Finance partner store is straightforward: Check your loan eligibility online in a few minutes Visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India Pick your preferred vivo smartphone and confirm the EMI plan that fits your budget Complete the paperwork in-store and walk out with your new phone This wide network means a partner store is rarely far away, whether you are in a metro city or a smaller town. Buyers can also look forward to zero down payment on select models, Easy EMIs starting from Rs. 830, flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months, and up to 60% off the price of select phones, making a display and camera upgrade far more accessible. With three distinct phones on offer, from the design-led vivo S2 to the camera-focused V80 5G and the compact X300 FE, there is a vivo smartphone to suit most needs and budgets, all of them within easier reach thanks to Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance.

Ai+ Smartphone today announced its partnership with Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Season 18, bringing the new-age Indian smartphone brand together with one of the country’s most iconic and trusted television properties.   Ai+ Smartphone Partners with Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18   For over two decades, KBC and its legendary host Amitabh Bachchan have stood for credibility, knowledge and aspiration, earning the trust of generations of Indian audiences. For Ai+ Smartphone, the association reflects a shared belief that trust is not claimed, it is earned over time.   As a young Indian technology brand, Ai+ Smartphone is building its journey around transparency, privacy and consumer-first technology. Its association with KBC gives the brand an opportunity to take this vision to millions of households across India.   Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth, Ai+ Smartphone and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “KBC is more than a television show; it is a part of India’s cultural fabric. Over the years, KBC and Mr. Bachchan have built an extraordinary legacy of credibility and trust. As a young Indian brand, that resonates deeply with us. We are building Ai+ with the belief that trust has to be earned every day through our products, our actions and our transparency. This partnership brings together an established legacy of trust with a new Indian technology brand aspiring to earn the same confidence from consumers.”   The association marks another step in Ai+ Smartphone’s journey towards building an Indian technology brand rooted in trust, privacy and transparency.   About Ai+ Smartphone Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.   From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.   About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, today inaugurated the IBM–MIT AI Lab – MAHE Intelligence GPU (MIG) at its Bengaluru campus in collaboration with IBM. The Centre houses a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility and is designed to democratise access to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Lab will provide advanced AI computing resources, research infrastructure, and digital skilling opportunities to students, researchers, and institutions across India.   MAHE-IBM inaugurated the AI Lab in Bengaluru The Lab was inaugurated by Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru & Nisha Gopinath, Vice President, Human Resources, IBM India and South Asia, in the presence of Shipra Sharma, CSR Leader, IBM India and South Asia, Dr. E. V. Ramana Reddy, IAS, Chairman, KSDA, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru and Dr. Dayanand, Dean, School of Computing & Engineering, along with senior leaders from IBM, faculty members, researchers, students, and industry representatives. Powered by advanced GPU-enabled computing infrastructure, AI Lab will support cutting-edge research in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, intelligent systems and data analytics. The facility can simultaneously support 30 high-performance computing workloads. It will provide faculty members, researchers, innovators and students with world-class computational resources to develop next-generation AI solutions. Beyond enabling advanced research, AI Lab has been envisioned as a collaborative platform/hub that bridges academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programmes, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation and collaborative technology development. Together, these initiatives will create an ecosystem where ideas can rapidly evolve into impactful solutions. A defining feature of the initiative is its commitment to inclusive AI education. Through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM’s free technology education program, MIT BLRU will establish an AI Learning Initiative. The programme will offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IBM SkillsBuild digital credentials, mentorship from MIT BLRU faculty and student volunteers, and access to advanced computing infrastructure. By reaching students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and equip learners with industry-relevant skills for the AI-driven economy. “I commend MIT, BLRU and IBM on launching the IBM-MIT, AI Lab and their shared commitment to advancing AI education and nurturing future-ready talent. This collaboration highlights the power of academia-industry partnerships in strengthening Karnataka’s AI ecosystem. By providing access to advanced AI infrastructure, hands-on learning, and resources, the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth,” said Priyank Kharge, Cabinet Minister for Home, IT & BT, e-Governance, Government of Karnataka. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, said, “Artificial Intelligence must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future. Our collaboration with IBM is a significant step towards building an inclusive and globally competitive AI ecosystem.” Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia said, “India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation. Realising this potential requires stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry. Our collaboration with MIT BLRU reflects IBM’s commitment to democratizing access to emerging technologies, enterprise-grade computing, and digital skills, empowering students and researchers to advance AI innovation. Together, we are strengthening India’s AI research ecosystem and driving innovations that create meaningful impact for India and the world,” Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, said the Centre would significantly strengthen the University’s AI research ecosystem. “MIG provides our students and researchers with the computing power needed to solve complex challenges and accelerate AI innovation. By integrating advanced infrastructure with industry collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem that nurtures research excellence, hands-on learning and industry-ready talent.” MIG marks a significant milestone in Karnataka’s higher education and innovation ecosystem. By combining advanced High-Performance Computing infrastructure with large-scale AI skilling, industry collaboration and community outreach, the Centre is expected to catalyse transformative research, innovation, entrepreneurship and talent development. As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape industries and societies, MIG positions MIT Bengaluru as a leading hub for AI research, talent development and responsible innovation.  About MAHE Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across 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. About IBM IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Galgotias University has delivered an outstanding performance in the Times BBA Education Ranking Survey 2026, published in The Times of India, further strengthening its position among the country’s leading institutions for management education.   The University climbed in three major categories led by a four-place jump to No. 2 in the country for placements. The placement result, up from No. 6 last year, was the University’s sharpest gain in the survey.   Across the categories, Galgotias University now ranks: No. 2 in India for BBA placements, up from No. 6 No. 8 among India’s Top 70 BBA institutes, up from No. 9 No. 5 among private BBA universities in India, up from No. 6 No. 5 among BBA institutes in North India, holding last year’s position   Galgotias University ranks #2 in India for Placements in the Times BBA Survey 2026   Placement results across the University The BBA ranking rests on placement numbers that run strong across the University. In the 2026 drive, Galgotias University students secured more than 5,500 offers from over 1,250 recruiting organisations. The highest package reached INR 60 lakh per annum, the average package stood at INR 5.4 lakh per annum, and the top internship carried a stipend of INR 1.25 lakh per month.   Prominent recruiters included top-tier technology, financial services and consulting firms. Infosys made 526 offers, Capgemini 228, Cognizant 205, City Union Bank 188, Accenture 91 and EY 61. The wider recruiter list includes Cisco, JPMorgan, Deloitte, KPMG and Tata Power. Hiring for the 2026-27 cohort is already underway, with early offers from Deloitte, EY and KPMG.   Industry connect The placement record follows directly from how the University teaches. Galgotias University runs close to 20 industry-aligned Centres of Excellence and learning centres built with firms including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, Salesforce and IBM. These centres give students hands-on work with current technology, industry-certified learning paths and direct contact with practitioners, so graduates arrive at recruiters already familiar with the tools and expectations of the job.   Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “Rising from sixth to second in the country for BBA placements tells our students and faculty that the approach is working. We built the programme around practical education, workplace skills and close industry engagement, and these results show up in where our graduates land. Our job now is to keep giving students the knowledge, experience and opportunities to build strong careers and lead as business changes around them.”   Growing national and global standing The Times BBA result follows a series of recent rankings for Galgotias University and its School of Business.   In the QS World University Rankings 2027, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band, 16th among private universities in India and 46th among all Indian universities, public and private combined. It marks the third year in a row that the University has featured among India’s top private institutions, and it ranks among the top three in Uttar Pradesh.   In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed 27th among private universities in India and its Business and Economics discipline entered the 601-800 global band.   The India Today-MDRA Best Colleges Survey 2026 ranked the School of Business 3rd among BBA institutions in Uttar Pradesh.   Each survey uses its own methodology and criteria. Read together, they cover the University’s performance across placements, academic quality, research and international standing.   Galgotias University ties management education to internships, live projects, entrepreneurship, technology-enabled learning and direct work with industry professionals. Students solve real business problems and build skills in decision-making, communication, teamwork and leadership. The University plans to expand its industry partnerships, hands-on learning and career-development programmes further.   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 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th 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 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

QDL is India’s leading listed digital media-tech company, strategically positioned at the intersection of media, technology, hospitality and AI. In Q1 FY 2026–27, it:   Successfully repositioned the company as a global Media-Tech and AI-powered platform, expanding beyond digital publishing into high-growth physical retail, commerce, and experiential ventures. Following the successful launch of media vertical of Time Out India, we are advancing toward the launch of India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi (targeted in early Q3 FY2026-2027), marking a significant milestone in our experiential media and hospitality growth strategy. Delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance, led by the Media-Tech business, with revenue surging to Rs. 35 Cr.—a remarkable 336% year-on-year growth over Q1 FY2025–26. Quintype remains the Group’s key growth engine, delivering robust operational and financial performance while reinforcing its leadership in Media-Tech.   Quint Digital Limited (QDL) delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance   Consolidated Financial Highlights Revenue from Operations: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 35 Cr. | YoY Growth: 336% Adjusted Profit Before Tax*: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 4.93 Cr.   * Post adjustment of interest cost and non-cash expenses viz. depreciation and stock option charge. This also includes adjustment of one-time pre-operating expenses of Rs. 1.04 Cr in relation to the launch of Time Out Media and Time Out Markets   Strong Operational Performance: Delivered an adjusted PBT of Rs. 4.93 Cr in Q1 FY2026–27, with the Company on track to achieve its strongest full-year operating performance to date.   Strategic Partnership with Time Out: Quint Digital set to launch India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi, with opening expected before Diwali.   Entry into the high-growth, scalable digital media-led commerce vertical is expected to significantly increase operating revenue and create a strong new growth engine for the Company.   Strong Media Tech Performance: Quintype’s Media Tech operations delivered robust consolidated revenue of Rs. 33 crore, reflecting the strength and scalability.   Strategic Investment in Lee Enterprises Potential for value creation: Increased stake to 14.59% through the acquisition of additional shares @ USD 3.25 per share in Q4 FY 2025-2026. Stake valued at USD 29Mn# QDL recognized a mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 10.58 Cr. on its investment in Lee Enterprises in the current quarter. Overall mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 129 Cr. Strategic Synergy Potential: Lee Enterprises’ ownership of BLOX Digital creates significant strategic synergy opportunities, strengthening QDL’s ability to expand its footprint across the global media technology ecosystem. This partnership enhances QDL’s long-term growth potential through the joint scaling of AI-powered newsroom solutions, enterprise digital publishing platforms, and next-generation media technologies.   # Closing price as on June 30, 2026 – USD 8.96 per share # Mark-to-Market gains represent unrealized gains arising from the shareholding in Lee Enterprises. The reported value is subject to fluctuation based on movements in the underlying share price of Lee Enterprises on the NASDAQ.   About Quint Digital Limited Quint Digital Limited (QDL) (QUINT, BSE 539515) is India’s leading digital and media-tech, AI-focused company. QDL creates innovative ideas in the digital space with cutting-edge technology and engaging formats to propel meaningful change. QDL holds a significant minority stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: “LEE”), a leading American media company that provides trusted local news and advertising services across 72 markets in 25 American states through nearly 350 digital platforms and print publications. QDL’s conglomerate offers various solutions ranging from news to tech innovations, recently strengthened by the acquisition of ListenFirst Media, a premium social media and digital analytics platform headquartered in New York, which enhances QDL’s capabilities in AI- driven audience insights and engagement strategies. Its flagship platform, The Quint, launched in 2015, delivers trusted, innovative journalism, while Quintype’s AI-powered editorial platform enables seamless content creation for over 300 publishers worldwide. QDL’s suite of brands also includes The News Minute, known for independent journalism from Southern India; Youth Ki Awaaz, a citizen media platform that amplifies the voices of India’s youth; and Kisan India, dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Indian agriculture. Quint Digital Limited is listed on the BSE Limited. The equity shares of Quint Digital Limited have been admitted to the permitted to trade category of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.