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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced numerous surprises and none of them would have shocked the international footballing world as two European giants, Germany and the Netherlands, crashed out of the tournament at the Round of 32 stage.   Julian Nagelsmann’s men lost to Paraguay on penalties   While teams like Egypt, Cape Verde, and Paraguay, along with co-hosts USA and Canada, have punched above their weight continuously in the ongoing World Cup, several teams have underachieved given their past achievements and on-paper strength of the squad.   Let’s have a look at the top five teams which failed to make it to the Round of 16 stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup:   #5 Senegal’s late meltdown causes their elimination In their first three matches of the ongoing World Cup, Belgium looked like a shadow of the team that achieved a third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In fact, Senegal was leading Belgium 2-0 when the second hydration break of the match was taken around the 70th-minute mark.   While the players were walking out, Belgium’s key players Youri Tielemans and Leandro Trossard were involved in a verbal spat as the two were caught on camera arguing about a potential chance.   With five minutes to go and the Red Devils still two down, substitute Romelu Lukaku found the back of the net, followed by Trossard and Tielemans combining for the equalizer as Belgium extended the game to extra time.   There was late drama yet again as the match extended past the 120th minute and Tielemans was fouled inside the Senegal penalty area, followed by his second goal of the evening, which helped Belgium make it to the Round of 16.   #4 Croatia ended up losing in a toe-to-toe contest Two Real Madrid legends, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, were captaining their respective nations, Portugal and Croatia in the Round of 32 clash. The match was being touted as the farewell fixture for one of the legendary players and the action on the field did not disappoint.   After a drab first half, Ivan Perisic opened the scoring for the Croats early in the second half followed by Cristiano Ronaldo scoring his first World Cup knockout stage goal from the spot. In injury time, Goncalo Ramos headed in the goal that completed the comeback for Roberto Martinez’s men.   In the dying embers of the game, Croatia had a goal disallowed for offside as one of the Croatian players headed on the free kick to the far post which was ultimately headed in before VAR stepped in and chalked off the goal, handing Portugal an Iberian Derby in the Round of 16.   #3 Uruguay crashed out of the group stage Marcelo Bielsa came into the tournament with hopes of leading Uruguay to new heights, but the veteran manager failed to even get them out of Group H. After a 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener, Bielsa’s men drew 2-2 with Cape Verde, followed by a crushing defeat to Spain, which sealed their fate in the tournament.   Uruguay made it to the World Cup courtesy of a strong showing by Darwin Nunez in front of goal in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, but the former Liverpool striker blanked at the main stage, leaving the South American nation wanting more from its best players.   Bielsa is famous for making his sides play attacking football, but the failure to keep a clean sheet against all three teams in their group ultimately cost La Celeste as they crashed out of the World Cup group stage for the second consecutive time.   #2 The Netherlands endured another poor tournament campaign The Netherlands remained unbeaten throughout the group stage and topped their group, but had to face Group C runners-up Morocco in the Round of 32, which turned out to be the most closely contested encounter in the whole round.   In a battle of defensive stars, Morocco fielded skipper Achraf Hakimi, Issa Diop, Chaddi Riad, and Noussair Mazraoui while Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman decided to change the formation and field five defenders in Denzel Dumfries, Paul van Hecke, Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, and Micky van de Ven.   With Cody Gakpo’s opener cancelled out by Diop and later the Dutch losing on penalties, the decision to change the formation for a crucial fixture was criticised heavily by fans and pundits alike.   #1 Germany’s disappointing showings at major tournaments go on After winning their first two matches of the ongoing World Cup, Germany was exposed by Ecuador as they came back from a goal down to win against the Germans and qualify for the knockout stage.   Paraguay qualified for the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed sides, finishing behind Australia on goal difference in Group D, and was the clear underdog against Germany.   Julio Enciso shocked everyone at the cusp of half-time as he opened the scoring, giving his side the lead. Leroy Sane equalized for the 2014 FIFA World Cup winners in the second half and Jonathan Tah seemed to have given them the lead in the first half of extra time, but his goal was controversially ruled out for a debated foul by Waldemar Anton on the goalkeeper.   The match went down to the penalties and sudden death, where none of the back-up penalty takers, including the experienced Leon Goretzka, stepped up to take responsibility, and ultimately central defender Tah blasted over to send his team packing towards Europe.   In the immediate aftermath of the defeat, Julian Nagelsmann accepted that big changes are needed to help German football flourish, and the former Bayern Munich manager followed up with his resignation soon after the debacle.   Former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool icon Jurgen Klopp is being touted as the favorite to fill the German hot seat ahead of a crucial four-year period for Die Mannschaft, where they would be competing at the

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in mother and child care, today announced the launch of the Philips Avent Sterilizer and Dryer Premium (SCF293/00) in India, a compact all-in-one appliance designed to help parents sterilize, dry and store baby feeding essentials with greater convenience. The launch builds on Philips Avent’s recent science-led infant hygiene awareness campaign(1) featuring actor and new mother Yami Gautam Dhar, which encouraged parents to rethink traditional boiling and adopt sterilization as an important step in infant bottle hygiene.   Philips Avent Launches Sterilizer and Dryer Premium in India   With this new innovation, Philips Avent is addressing a clear parent need: trusted hygiene support that fits into daily feeding routines. Survey findings from the campaign indicated that the Philips Avent Sterilizer delivers up to 2x better germ protection than boiling(2), with infants falling ill less often in households using the sterilizer versus boiling(3). The new Sterilizer and Dryer Premium enable drying functionality by combining sterilization and filtered air drying in one appliance.   The launch reflects Philips Avent’s continued commitment to supporting informed parenting through consumer education and meaningful innovation. The new product is designed to make infant hygiene routines easier to adopt every day, bringing together effective sterilization, filtered-air drying and convenient storage in one appliance.   Commenting on the launch, Smit Shukla, Country Head – Philips Personal Health, Philips Indian Subcontinent, said, “Philips Avent as a brand has always believed in being an ally to parents and help them in their parenting journey. This also means we have to stay close to the consumer and listen to them. After an overwhelming response to our sterilizer campaign, many consumers reached out to us and asked for a drying function as well. We are therefore introducing the new sterilizer and dryer from Philips Avent which not only gives 2X better germ protection vs boiling but also dries baby essentials making parent’s life easier and protect babies from germs.”   Philips Avent Sterilizer and Dryer   Philips Avent Sterilizer and Dryer Premium helps simplify daily hygiene routines Baby essentials hygiene is one of the routines parents repeat every day. Designed to make that routine easier to sustain, the Philips Avent Sterilizer and Dryer Premium (SCF293/00) combines sterilization, drying and storage in one compact appliance. Using pure steam technology, it helps eliminate 99.9% of harmful germs without chemicals(4), giving parents a trusted and convenient way to care for baby feeding essentials. Sterilizes and dries in 40 minutes: The appliance completes a full sterilization and drying cycle in 40 minutes, helping bottles and accessories be ready for the next feed. Keeps contents sterile for up to 24 hours(5): When the lid remains closed, contents can remain sterile for up to 24 hours, giving parents more flexibility throughout the day. Designed for everyday capacity: The Sterilizer and Dryer can hold up to six Philips Avent bottles, along with accessories such as teats, soothers and a manual breast pump. Compact all-in-one design: Its compact footprint, spacious capacity and combined sterilization, drying and storage functionality help simplify bottle hygiene without adding extra steps to parents’ daily routines. Available starting at Rs. 7,495   About Royal Philips Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people’s health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips’ patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home.   Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2025 sales of EUR 18 billion and employs approximately 64,300 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter.   (1) In April 2026, Philips Avent launched a science-led infant hygiene awareness campaign featuring Yami Gautam Dhar, blending cultural insight with science-backed claims to encourage parents to rethink traditional boiling and champion sterilization as an important step in infant bottle hygiene. (2) “2x better germ protection” refers to comparative contamination rates for Klebsiella pneumoniae observed in survey samples collected immediately after sterilization/boiling. Based on analysis from a multicentric real-world survey conducted by IQVIA across 120 participants in four major Indian cities during July – August 2025 to compare the efficacy of the Philips Avent sterilizer versus traditional boiling for sterilizing baby feeding equipment. Actual germ protection depends on proper usage, maintenance, and hygiene practices. Individual results may vary. (3) Based on analysis from a multicentric real-world survey conducted by IQVIA across 120 participants in four major Indian cities during July – August 2025 to compare the efficacy of the Philips Avent sterilizer versus traditional boiling for sterilizing baby feeding equipment, comparing contamination rates, frequency, severity and recovery period of infant illness. Individual results may vary. This information does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. (4) Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureas, Streptococcus agalactiae, Cronobacter sakazakii, Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes. The test results are provided by an independent test lab. (5) Subject to sterilizer lid remaining unopened after one full 10 minutes cycle of sterilization.

VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) inaugurated its landmark Thiruvanmiyur Campus, envisioned as India’s First AI-Integrated Vertical University Campus, marking a significant milestone in its mission to build a future-ready higher education ecosystem.   Padma Shri Sridhar Vembu with H.E. Ahmed Mir Hashim Khoori, Mr. M. F. Rawoof Ali, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, and Dr. Preethaa Ganesh during the inauguration of the VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus The campus was inaugurated by Padma Shri Sridhar Vembu, Chief Scientist and Co-Founder of Zoho Corporation, in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Mir Hashim Khoori, Member of the Federal National Council, UAE, and Board Member of the Emirates Airline Foundation, who attended as the Guest of Honour. The function was presided over by Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder-Chancellor, VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), along with Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, VELS Group of Institutions. Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh Unveils VELS’ Vision for Future-Ready Education Welcoming the distinguished guests, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh highlighted the remarkable contributions of Padma Shri Sridhar Vembu in advancing indigenous technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and nation-building. He also acknowledged the outstanding leadership of His Excellency Ahmed Mir Hashim Khoori in strengthening educational, aviation, and international partnerships between India and the UAE. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ganesh emphasized that universities must continuously evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing technological landscape. He described the AI-Integrated Vertical University Campus as a smart, sustainable, and innovation-driven institution designed to nurture research excellence, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and globally competent professionals. Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, VELS Group of Institutions, said, “Technology transforms every industry, higher education must also transform the way students learn, think, and prepare for the future. Guided by this philosophy, VELS has established India’s First AI-Integrated Vertical University Campus, a campus designed not only for today’s learners, but for tomorrow’s leaders.” Dr. Preethaa Ganesh further stated that every aspect of the campus has been built with one purpose: to put students first. From AI-enabled classrooms and collaborative innovation hubs to industry-connected laboratories, digital learning environments, and world-class student amenities, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create the best possible learning experience. She added that the vision behind the campus is not merely to create one of India’s most technologically advanced university buildings, but to develop one of the country’s finest learning ecosystems, one that nurtures graduates who are future-ready, globally competent, ethically grounded, and committed to making a meaningful impact on society. Global Partnerships to Strengthen Industry Integration A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Aspin Holding LLC Group, and MH Cockpit to establish a Flying School in the UAE. The partnership aims to promote collaboration in aviation education, pilot training, faculty exchange, internships, skill development, research, and international career opportunities for students. VELS also announced that it will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zoho Corporation to collaborate in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, emerging technologies, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, digital skill development, and industry-academia initiatives. A major highlight of the campus is its Industry–Academia Centres of Excellence, established in collaboration with Intel Unnati, TCS iON, Microsoft, and Oracle Academy, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing, high-performance computing, and other emerging technologies. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through live projects, internships, research, startup incubation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving global workforce. Addressing the audience, His Excellency Ahmed Mir Hashim Khoori congratulated VELS on its remarkable growth and compared the institution’s journey with the phenomenal expansion of Emirates Airline. He observed that India and the UAE continue to strengthen their relationship through education, aviation, technology, innovation, and economic cooperation. Delivering the inaugural address, Padma Shri Sridhar Vembu appreciated the vision behind the new campus and emphasized the importance of building indigenous technologies. “The VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus is a beautifully designed institution with excellent architecture. India must build technologies from the ground up—from atoms to bits—to remain globally competitive. We must aspire to build next-generation technologies and strengthen our innovation ecosystem. Zoho looks forward to collaborating with VELS in the near future,” he said. Following the inauguration, Sridhar Vembu engaged in an interactive session with VELS students on Artificial Intelligence, entrepreneurship, research, technology, rural innovation, and nation-building. He encouraged students to develop deep technical expertise, embrace lifelong learning, solve real-world challenges through innovation, and contribute meaningfully to India’s technological advancement. The inauguration of the VELS Thiruvanmiyur Campus marks another defining milestone in the institution’s journey towards redefining higher education through Artificial Intelligence, innovation, industry collaboration, global partnerships, and cutting-edge technology. More than the inauguration of a new campus, it represents the beginning of a future-focused academic ecosystem where students are empowered to become innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and leaders capable of shaping the world of tomorrow. To Apply : velsthiruvanmiyur.com

Trident Group, a global conglomerate and a leading name in the home textiles industry, today outlined its next phase of growth at Bharat Tex 2026, anchored on an innovation-led strategy, manufacturing excellence and sustainable value creation. This year’s theme, ‘The Expression of Living,’ reflected the company’s vision for the future of home textiles, highlighting textile innovation, contemporary design and evolving consumer lifestyles.    Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Textiles, with Padma Shri Dr. Rajinder Gupta, Rajya Sabha MP & Chairman Emeritus, Trident Group, and Neha Gupta Bector, Chairperson, myTrident, at Bharat Tex 2026   Building on a resilient FY27 performance, the Group is sharpening its focus on unlocking the full potential of its existing assets, embedding digitalization across operations and scaling a robust research and development engine to power its next wave of growth. On growth, Trident delivered a resilient performance in FY27 despite global headwinds, maintaining a stable revenue base.     Strengthening its innovation architecture, the company has established a dedicated Innovation Cell and invested over INR 100 crore towards advanced R&D and environmental performance. Backed by 17+ patents and 147 trademarks, this innovation engine is driving next-generation advances in advanced fibre blends, functional finishes and high-performance yarns tailored to premium and niche markets.    Padma Shri Dr. Rajinder Gupta, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha and Chairman Emeritus Trident Group, sharing his vision, said, “As the global textile industry converges at Bharat Tex 2026, India is no longer simply participating in the conversation. It is helping shape the future of global textiles. In just three editions, Bharat Tex has emerged as one of the world’s most significant textile platforms. By bringing together the entire textile value chain, it has created unparalleled opportunities for global brands, buyers, innovators and manufacturers to connect, collaborate and build the future together. At Trident, we believe that the future of the industry lies at the intersection of innovation, design and craftsmanship. Through ‘The Expression of Living,’ we are proud to showcase how purposeful innovation and world-class design can redefine modern living while carrying India’s rich creative heritage to the world. Our partnership with NIFT is central to this vision; together, we are nurturing India’s design talent, strengthening the country’s design ecosystem, and taking Indian creations to global markets.”   As part of this larger vision, myTrident, the flagship home decor brand from the Trident Group, unveiled its upcoming festive collections and new home decor ranges, while also introducing Torani for myTrident, Karan Torani’s first home décor collaboration, alongside the second edition of Shivan & Narresh for myTrident. Together, these launches reflected myTrident’s growing focus on design-led collaborations that bring together contemporary creativity, Indian craftsmanship and cultural storytelling to shape the future of premium home decor.   Commenting on the launch of the new collections and working with the designers, Neha Gupta Bector, Chairperson, myTrident, said, “The theme, ‘The Expression of Living’, reflected our belief that the home is an extension of who we are, and every space should tell a story. Through this showcase, we brought together thoughtful design, craftsmanship and creativity to demonstrate how home decor is evolving beyond functionality into a form of personal expression. Our collaborations with Karan Torani and Shivan & Narresh, alongside our latest festive collections, reflected our vision of creating spaces that celebrate individuality while remaining rooted in Indian design and craftsmanship.”   Rajneesh Bhatia, CEO of myTrident, “Bharat Tex 2026 signals India’s growing textile footprint, with this year’s exhibition being comparable to others across the world that’ve been around far longer. “We are increasing our retail touch points from the current 7,000 to 10,000. This expansion will solidify our position as a leading home furnishings brand in India and broaden our footprint across domestic market. To drive further growth, we’re focusing on key opportunities in HORECA & institutions, where we aim to capture the largest market share, and also focus on expanding our gifting solutions portfolio.”   With ‘The Expression of Living,’ Trident Group brought together innovation, design and craftsmanship under one vision at Bharat Tex 2026, reinforcing its position as one of India’s leading home textile players and its commitment to shaping the future of modern living. As it enters its next phase of growth, Trident remains focused on purposeful innovation, world-class design and sustainable value creation, carrying India’s rich creative heritage to homes and markets across the world.   About the Trident Group  Trident Limited is the flagship company of Trident Group, an Indian business conglomerate and global player. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Limited is a vertically integrated textile (Yarn, Bath & Bed Linen) and Paper (Wheat Straw-based) manufacturer. Trident’s towels, yarns, bedsheets, and paper businesses have earned global recognition and are delighting millions of customers across India and the world. Trident is one of the largest players in home textiles in India.   Supplying national, captive, and retailer-owned brands; the organization is highly decorated with awards from its customers, vendors, and various government entities in recognition of advancing the highest standards in product quality, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The company operates in three major business segments: Textiles, Paper, and Chemicals, with its manufacturing facilities in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.   About myTrident myTrident is Trident Group’s flagship brand specializing in luxurious & premium home furnishings. The company caters to all segments across luxury, premium to everyday. From designs, innovation and sustainability, the brand has been setting benchmarks in the home textile industry. With a sharp focus on customer demands, myTrident offers a range of exquisite products including bed sheets, towels, pillows, bathrobes, top of bed, and much more. Each item is crafted with precision and attention to detail, to offer customers an unparalleled sense of comfort, style, and elegance. myTrident products can be found across all leading hotels of the country. The brand also offers an easy online shopping experience at www.mytrident.com.

CGH Earth Wellness announced The Metabolic Reset, a thoughtfully designed 7-day wellness program at Prakriti Shakti, Clinic of Natural Medicine by CGH Earth Wellness, created to help guests pause, reset, and reconnect with their health. The program is tailored for first-time wellness seekers and offers a restorative introduction to naturopathy in a peaceful natural setting. The Metabolic Reset is positioned as a healing environment for metabolism, heart health, and overall wellbeing, with a focus on sleep, digestion, immunity, energy, and emotional balance.   Prakriti Shakti, CGH Earth Wellness   Many guests who have experienced Prakriti Shakti understand the value of a few days spent in nature, with wholesome food, yoga, rest and naturopathy. The metabolic reset program’s objective is that wellbeing should be accessible, restorative and rooted in nature. It is especially relevant for those who have been experiencing fatigue, stress, weight concerns, poor sleep or just feel the need to take care of themselves holistically. The 7-day Metabolic Reset Programme offers an immersive, physician-led wellness experience designed to rebalance the body’s metabolic health. Each day includes personalised medical consultations, two bespoke healing therapies, guided group yoga therapy, expert lifestyle and wellness coaching, and seamless airport transfers from Kochi—bringing together clinical expertise, holistic healing, and thoughtful hospitality in one restorative journey.   Dr. Cijith Sreedhar, Chief Medical Officer at Prakriti Shakti – “The Metabolic Reset is our way of helping people take a pause and reconnect with their health in a natural and sustainable way. Through personalized consultations, curated therapies, and doctor-prescribed diet guidance, we help guests begin a more mindful relationship with their metabolic health.”   Prakriti Shakti, the clinic of natural medicine by CGH Earth Wellness is set amidst a serene natural landscape designed to support healing, reset and renewal. The fan- cooled twin cottages have private balconies surrounded by lush foliage creating a calm and restorative environment for guests to slow down and reconnect with themselves.   The Metabolic Reset at Prakriti Shakti reflects a holistic approach to wellness, reminding us that wellbeing can begin with one thoughtful choice. This program can be a special wellness gift that you can share with someone you care about- a family member, friend, colleague who can benefit from a gentle reset of their health and lifestyle.   So, this monsoon, give the gift of wellness and make a difference to someone’s life. For more information on Prakriti Shakti please visit www.prakritishakti.com.   About CGH Earth Experience Wellness The art of healing meets the science of health at CGH Earth Experience Wellness – with experiences that heal your body, mind and soul. Combining the power of ancient medicinal systems and traditional therapeutic practices, CGH Earth Wellness offers holistic healthcare based on Ayurveda, Naturopathy and Yoga. It also addresses one’s overall state of wellbeing through experiences that are fulfilling and enriching for the self. All of the transformative experiences offered by CGH Earth Wellness are intrinsically nourished by the core values that are at the heart of all the group’s hospitality and healthcare. The CGH Earth Wellness Group believes that operating with environmental sensitivity, including and benefiting local community and adopting the local ethos are the only ways to revive, sustain and thrive as a global collective.   A pioneer in responsible tourism in India and with a credible background spanning over five decades in offering uniquely immersive travel experiences, CGH Earth Wellness diversified into wellness with the start of Ayurveda Healthcare 17 years back at Kalari Kovilakom, followed by Kalari Rasayana. Subsequently, Prakriti Shakti was started in 2018, which offers naturopathy healthcare, another system of holistic healing with roots in indigenous wisdom. These centres are certified and accredited by NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare providers). While the Ayurveda and Naturopathy healing centres primarily addressed the body, SwaSwara was CGH Earth’s quest towards redefining the meaning of a true holiday. Embraced by the wilderness on the seashore of Om beach, SwaSwara addressed the mind by offering rejuvenating and immersive experiences to release, re-focus and recalibrate the self.   For more information on CGH Earth Wellness, please visit www.cghearthwellness.com.

As National Clean Beauty Day, observed on July 15, draws attention to the growing global movement towards more conscious beauty choices, consumers are becoming increasingly mindful of what goes into the products they use every day. The conversation around clean beauty is evolving—moving beyond simply asking what is left out of a formula to understanding what goes in, why it belongs there and how thoughtfully every product has been created.    Barely there Skin Tint – A 4-in-1 Skin Tint with SPF 35 PA+++ that combines skincare and makeup, delivering sheer, breathable coverage with a lightweight feel For Kiro, this has never been a trend. It has been the foundation of the brand since its inception. Part of the early wave of clean beauty brands redefining makeup in India, Kiro was built on a simple conviction: women should never have to choose between products that perform beautifully and products that respect their skin.   Velvet Souffle Lipstick: Rich colour meets care with CoQ10, Aquaxyl and Reishi Mushroom for hydrated, nourished lips. Vegan, cruelty-free and free from parabens and carmine “When we started Kiro, we kept coming back to one simple thought: if women are wearing makeup for hours every day, those products deserve the same level of thought and care that we expect from skincare. That belief became the foundation of everything we create—from the ingredients we choose to the way every formula is developed and tested,” says Vasundhara Patni, Founder and CEO, Kiro.   Airy Matte Lipstick: A lightweight, transfer-proof matte lipstick infused with Avocado and Apricot Oils to keep lips hydrated, comfortable and nourished all day Today, makeup is no longer reserved for special occasions. It moves through workdays, commutes, celebrations, meetings and everyday moments. It stays on the skin for hours and becomes part of a woman’s daily routine. For Kiro, that everyday relationship with beauty makes thoughtful formulation not just important, but essential. For Kiro, clean beauty has never been about creating a list of ingredients to avoid. It is about taking responsibility for every ingredient that goes into a formula—understanding its purpose, its role and ensuring every choice is made with the consumer’s skin in mind. Every ingredient should earn its place. Every claim should be backed by evidence. Every formulation should deliver on the promise it makes to the woman using it. This philosophy extends far beyond the product itself. For Kiro, clean beauty is a business responsibility that influences decisions across the organisation from ingredient selection and clinical testing to sourcing, packaging choices and transparent communication. The brand believes that responsible beauty cannot exist only inside the formula; it must be reflected in the way a company operates. “Clean beauty is not always the easiest path, and it certainly isn’t the cheapest one. Thoughtful formulations cost more. Rigorous testing costs more. Responsible sourcing and considered packaging choices require greater investment. These decisions impact costs, timelines and the way we build the business. But if we believe women should not have to compromise on the products they use every day, then we have to hold ourselves to that same standard. Responsibility cannot be a marketing layer; it has to be built into every decision we make,” says Patni. The same intentionality extends to sustainability. For Kiro, responsible beauty is not about claiming perfection; it is about making more conscious choices at every stage, including packaging decisions while balancing environmental responsibility, functionality and accessibility. Sustainability, like clean formulation, must be embedded into the business rather than treated as an occasional initiative. That no-compromise philosophy is reflected across Kiro’s portfolio, where skincare-first formulations meet high-performance makeup. The Barely There SPF 35 Skin Tint combines hydration, SPF protection and lightweight coverage in a single effortless formula designed for modern routines. The Velvet Souffle Hydrating Matte Lipstick, enriched with CoQ10 and Aquaxyl, was clinically tested to demonstrate a 59% improvement in hydration and a 23% improvement in skin barrier function while delivering up to eight hours of dermatologist-assessed wear. Innovations such as Pigment Drops further reflect the brand’s belief in personalised beauty and shades designed to feel intuitive and relevant for Indian skin tones. Equally important is creating products that work for the realities of women’s lives. Multifunctional formulations that simplify routines, textures designed for all-day comfort and shades developed for diverse Indian skin tones reflect Kiro’s larger belief that beauty should adapt to women, not the other way around. “We have always believed that products should work harder so women don’t have to. The modern woman does not need more steps; she needs better solutions. Our responsibility is to create products that fit into her life, products that perform, feel good on the skin and genuinely earn their place in her routine,” adds Patni. From clinically substantiated claims and ingredient-led storytelling to authentic campaign imagery featuring real skin and minimal retouching, Kiro continues to build trust through transparency, evidence and honesty. This National Clean Beauty Day, Kiro celebrates more than a movement—it celebrates a philosophy that has guided the brand since day one. By combining intentional ingredients, clinically backed formulations and transparent communication, Kiro continues to prove that women should never have to compromise between makeup that performs beautifully and makeup that cares for their skin.  

NIIT Foundation has earned the Great Place To Work® Certification in India for the June 2026 – June 2027 period, marking its third consecutive year of receiving this prestigious recognition. The certification reflects NIIT Foundation’s continued commitment to sustaining a workplace culture built on trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared sense of purpose.   NIIT Foundation has been Great Place To Work® Certified for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and purpose   The certification is based on an independent assessment conducted by the Great Place To Work®, which captures employee’s experiences and perceptions of their workplace. This year, NIIT Foundation recorded an overall Trust Index Score of 86%, with 458 employees participating in the survey. The organisation also performed strongly across key workplace dimensions, including Corporate Image (89%), Pride (89%), Leadership Behaviour (88%), Communication (88%), and Justice (87%), reflecting the confidence employees have in the NIIT Foundation’s culture and leadership.   Commenting on the recognition, Sapna Moudgil, CEO, NIIT Foundation, said, “This certification is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices and experiences of our people. It is a recognition of the culture we have built together, one rooted in trust, collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to our purpose. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, empowered to learn, and inspired to create meaningful social impact.”   The survey also highlighted several areas where NIIT Foundation scored above the Great Place To Work® benchmark. Employees appreciated the organization’s emphasis on professional development, fair and inclusive management practices, workplace safety, and its welcoming environment for new team members. Many also expressed pride in the NIIT Foundation’s contribution to society and the positive impact of its work, reinforcing the strong sense of purpose that defines the organization.   Established in 2004, NIIT Foundation works to bridge the digital divide by expanding access to education, digital literacy, employability, and skill development opportunities for underserved communities. Through partnerships with government agencies, corporate organizations, and civil society the NIIT Foundation delivers high-impact programs that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and stay true to its commitment of reaching the unreached.   The Great Place To Work® Certification is another milestone in NIIT Foundation’s journey of investing in its people while advancing its social mission. It reflects the NIIT Foundation’s ongoing efforts to foster a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to contribute to meaningful and lasting change.   About NIIT Foundation NIIT Foundation (NF) is a not-for-profit education society (NGO) established by the promoters of NIIT in 2004. The Foundation implements CSR programs for Corporates and Corporate Foundations and also builds strong partnerships with NGOs to drive sustainable and scalable development.   Its mission is to positively impact the underprivileged of the country through educational initiatives and skill development programs. NIIT Foundation has a mandate to reach the unreached, uncared and unattended to ensure inclusive development of India. With a strong pan-India footprint, NIIT Foundation reaches underserved communities across 28 states and 3 Union Territories.   Guided by its mandate to bridge the education and employability gap at the grassroots level, NIIT Foundation implements a wide range of programs and initiatives, including Career and Skill Development programs, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, Cyber Security, Community Awareness programs, the Digital Bus initiative, Hole-in-the-Wall Learning Stations, and AI-enabled programs in the IT–ITeS domain.   NIIT Foundation is a Great Place To Work® (GPTW) certified organization for three consecutive years and ISO 9001:2015 certified, reflecting its strong people-centric culture, robust governance, and commitment to quality and continuous improvement.   NIIT Foundation works on social development initiatives, including education, digital inclusion, and skilling for underserved communities. All programs and partnerships are undertaken solely by NIIT Foundation. Any reference to any other similarly named entity in relation to NIIT Foundation’s initiatives is incorrect unless explicitly specified.   To know more, please visit our website, www.niitfoundation.org, and follow us on our social media channels.   LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/niitfoundation/?originalSubdomain=in  Twitter: x.com/NIIT_Foundation  YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC0mLKG8oDG-sFWH2XhoDgMQ  Facebook: www.facebook.com/NIITFoundation 

India’s luxury residential market is witnessing unprecedented momentum, driven by rising incomes, increasing wealth creation, and evolving buyer aspirations. Today’s affluent homebuyers are no longer investing in premium residences merely as status symbols. Instead, they are seeking homes that offer curated lifestyles, wellness, exclusivity, and long-term value. This shift is reflected in the growing demand for thoughtfully designed developments such as MRG Crown, where contemporary design, premium amenities, and strategic location come together to meet the expectations of discerning buyers.   Inside India’s Luxury Housing Boom: What the Wealthy Are Buying   The luxury residential sector has expanded significantly over the past few years. Alongside India’s robust economic growth, the increasing number of High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) and Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNIs) has fuelled demand for premium homes. Investors are also viewing luxury real estate as a resilient asset class that offers both capital appreciation and wealth preservation, signalling a clear shift in buyer preferences.   According to Mordor Intelligence, the Indian luxury housing market is expected to grow from USD 38.02 billion in 2024 to USD 101.92 billion by 2029, underscoring the sector’s immense growth potential. Recent market data also reflects this momentum. In the first quarter of 2024, nearly 28,020 new luxury homes were launched across India’s top cities. Luxury homes, typically priced above Rs 1.5 crore, accounted for around 21 percent of total residential sales, with approximately 27,070 units sold during the quarter. These numbers demonstrate the resilience of the premium housing segment despite global economic uncertainties.   What Affluent Buyers Are Looking For The definition of luxury has evolved considerably. Buyers today expect far more than expansive floor plans or premium addresses. They are seeking integrated lifestyle experiences centred around wellness, sustainability, privacy, technology, and community living.   High-end apartments and condominiums continue to witness strong demand, with their share in quarterly sales rising from 5 percent in Q1 2022 to 11 percent in Q1 2024. Developments in prime locations offering world-class amenities, wellness facilities, green spaces, concierge services, and smart home features are increasingly preferred by affluent buyers.   Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have also emerged as a significant force in India’s luxury housing market. Their investments in Indian real estate reached approximately USD 13.1 billion in 2023, and by 2025, NRIs are expected to account for nearly one-fourth of total real estate investments in the country. Their preference for branded, professionally managed, and future-ready residential developments continues to strengthen demand in the premium segment.   At the very top end of the market, ultra-luxury housing is witnessing remarkable growth. During the first eight months of 2024, 25 homes priced above Rs 40 crore were sold across India, generating sales worth Rs 2,443 crore. Mumbai accounted for 21 of these transactions, while Gurugram also emerged as a strong performer.   According to Anarock, properties priced above Rs 40 crore registered a 2 percent appreciation, while homes valued above Rs 100 crore recorded a 14 percent increase in prices. This reflects the growing appetite among India’s wealthiest buyers for exclusive, limited-edition residences that combine prestige with long-term investment potential.   Beyond primary residences, holiday homes, farmhouses, and luxury villas are becoming increasingly attractive. Approximately one-fourth of luxury buyers are investing in holiday homes, while nearly one-fifth prefer farmhouses, driven by the desire for spacious living, flexible work environments, and diversified real estate portfolios.   Emerging Luxury Investment Destinations India’s luxury housing growth story is no longer confined to a single city. Multiple destinations are attracting affluent buyers based on economic activity, infrastructure development, and lifestyle offerings.   Gurugram has firmly established itself as one of India’s most dynamic luxury real estate destinations. Strong corporate demand, world-class infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and a growing inventory of premium developments have propelled the city to the forefront of luxury housing. The city also witnessed landmark ultra-luxury transactions during 2024, including a residential deal valued at nearly Rs 95 crore.   Within this landscape, projects such as MRG Crown reflect the changing expectations of luxury homebuyers by focusing on quality construction, thoughtfully designed living spaces, premium amenities, and an elevated lifestyle experience that extends beyond the home itself.   Mumbai continues to dominate India’s luxury housing market, accounting for nearly half of the country’s luxury inventory. Prestigious neighbourhoods such as Altamount Road and Bandra remain preferred destinations for high-value residential investments. Hyderabad is also emerging as a strong luxury market, particularly in locations such as Jubilee Hills and Banjara Hills. Meanwhile, Goa and Alibaug continue to attract affluent buyers looking for luxury villas and second homes that combine lifestyle aspirations with long-term appreciation potential.   The Road Ahead India’s luxury housing market is entering a new phase of sustained growth. Rising disposable incomes, expanding entrepreneurial wealth, favourable demographics, infrastructure-led development, and increasing global confidence in India’s economy are creating strong fundamentals for long-term expansion.   Luxury homes today are no longer viewed solely as symbols of success. They have become strategic assets that offer financial security, lifestyle enhancement, and legacy creation. As buyer expectations continue to evolve, developers who focus on design excellence, wellness, sustainability, and customer experience will shape the next chapter of India’s premium housing story.   For projects like MRG Crown, this transformation presents an opportunity to deliver not just premium residences, but thoughtfully curated living environments that align with the aspirations of India’s new generation of affluent homebuyers. As cities such as Gurugram, Mumbai, and Hyderabad continue to lead this growth, India’s luxury real estate sector is well positioned to remain one of the country’s most attractive long-term investment destinations.