Swiss watch brand Longines opened its second boutique in Hyderabad today at Inorbit Mall. The boutiques were inaugurated by Longines Friend of the Brand Sara Ali Khan. The actress later also visited the boutique at Jubilee Hills to meet with some select customers.

Achla Chawla, Brand Manager – Longines India with Longines Friend of the brand Sara Ali Khan and Mr. Niraj Totla, Director – Kamal Watch Co. at the launch of Longines Boutique at Inorbit Mall, Hyderabad

During the event, a fashion show was organised at Inorbit’s atrium to showcase the brands latest Longines PrimaLuna. Sara Ali Khan with her effortless charm and elegance walked the ramp in style wearing her favourite PrimaLuna model from the collection. She also interacted with the media, describing elegance as “timeless and evolving,” a philosophy that is intrinsic to Longines.

Longines Friend of the brand Sara Ali Khan at Longines Boutique, Inorbit Mall, Hyderabad

The line is a complete reimagination that embodies the brand’s philosophy that true elegance evolves while remaining fundamentally timeless. Inspired by the spirit of its first iteration, every element has been thoughtfully designed, from refined case proportions and brand-new date display in the moonphase complication to the mastery of gem-setting techniques. This artisanal expertise reaches its peak in the extraordinary model, featuring a blue mother-of-pearl dial, encircled by a bezel adorned with 48 carefully selected sapphires that together create a celestial celebration of Swiss horological artistry.

The Longines boutique at Inorbit Mall is one of the most preferred destinations for Longines clientele. Mirroring the brand’s universe, it showcases the latest product range from the feminine refined shapes of PrimaLuna and DolceVita, to the sporty new HydroConquest and the watchmaking tradition of the Longines Master Collection and heritage timepieces. 

About Longines 
Established in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, Longines’ expertise is steeped in tradition, elegance and performance. With its lengthy experience as an official timekeeper of world sports championships and partner of international sports federations, the Swiss watch brand has forged solid, enduring links with the world of sports over the years. Famous for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the world’s leading manufacturer of timepieces. The brand Longines, with its winged hourglass emblem, is represented in over 130 countries.

DOT School of Design, one of the leading design institutions in the city, fostering innovation in design education, announced the exceptional performance of its students across TN Skills and IndiaSkills competitions, marking a significant milestone in their journey from state-level recognition to the global stage.

L to R: Rudra JS, Insiya M. Dhorajiwala and Reshma J display their medals after their achievement at the IndiaSkills Competition 2025-26

The achievement journey spanned multiple stages, with all participating DOT students successfully clearing TN Skills, a state-level initiative led by the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation. The cohort went on to secure 2 Gold Medals and 1 Bronze Medal at the TN Skills Regional Competition, followed by a Gold Medal at the IndiaSkills National Competition.

At TN Skills, Reshma J and Rudra JS were awarded Rs. 25,000 each, while Insiya M Dhorajiwala received Rs. 10,000. The awards were presented by Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu recognising their performance at the state level and encouraging young talent to pursue excellence in skill-based domains.

At the IndiaSkills Regional Competition, Reshma J secured a Gold Medal in Digital Interactive Media, and Rudra JS won Gold in Industrial Design Technology. Insiya M Dhorajiwala earned a Bronze Medal in Graphic Design Technology. Continuing this performance at the national level, Reshma J secured the Gold Medal in Digital Interactive Media at the IndiaSkills National Competition and has qualified to represent India at the prestigious WorldSkills Competition.

The multi-stage competition framework from TN Skills to IndiaSkills regionals and nationals tested students across concept development, technical execution, and presentation, requiring them to perform in time-bound, high-pressure environments aligned with industry standards. Participants were evaluated on their ability to translate ideas into practical solutions, demonstrate precision in execution, and present their work effectively to expert juries.

The competitions also provided students with exposure to real-world problems, encouraging them to think critically, innovate, and adapt to evolving design challenges. From ideation and prototyping to final execution, each stage demanded a high level of discipline, creativity, and technical proficiency.

Faculty members at DOT School of Design played a key role throughout the journey, supporting students with structured training, technical mentorship, mock evaluations, and continuous feedback to ensure competition readiness at every stage. The institution’s focus on hands-on learning and industry-aligned training enabled students to approach each level with confidence.

In his comments, Dr AR R Raammnath, Chairman of DOT School of Design, said, “Our goal is to create an environment where students can apply their learning beyond the classroom. Platforms like TN Skills and IndiaSkills provide the right exposure for them to test their abilities, understand industry expectations, and grow into confident professionals ready for global opportunities.”

Mr Rizvi, Vice President – Strategy at DOT School of Design, added, “This achievement reflects a consistent progression across stages and the ability of our students to perform under competitive conditions. Our focus has been on preparing students holistically so they can adapt, execute, and present their ideas effectively at every level.”

Sharing her experience, Reshma J said, “Each stage challenged me to improve and perform better. Winning at the national level and moving on to WorldSkills is a proud milestone in my journey.” Rudra JS and Insiya M Dhorajiwala highlighted the learning and exposure gained through the competitions.

With strong performances across TN Skills and IndiaSkills and a pathway to WorldSkills, DOT School of Design continues to enable students to translate their skills into impactful achievements on national and global platforms. As Chennai’s pioneering exclusive design college, it offers regular and global programs in Fashion Design, Communication Design, Industrial Design and Interior Design. With industry-expert faculties, DOT commits to hands-on projects, competitions, and pathways like WorldSkills equipping students to thrive in the creative industry.

SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading general insurance companies, delivered a strong performance in FY26, growing significantly ahead of the industry and reinforcing its market position. Continuing its growth trajectory, the Company reported a Gross Direct Premium (GDP) of INR 15,904 crores, registering a YOY growth of 14.5% and crossing the significant milestone of INR 15,000 crores since inception.

SBI General Insurance posts robust performance and consistent growth in FY26, supported by improved underwriting and a diversified portfolio

SBI General Insurance continues to focus on maintaining a balance between growth and profitability in a dynamic operating environment. The Company grew at 1.6 times the industry growth rate, further strengthening its market position. Additionally, the Company gained 27 basis points improvement in private & SAHI market share from 6.90% in FY 25 to 7.17% in FY26, reflecting sustained growth momentum and strong execution capabilities. Growth during the year was supported by key segments, with Health 27%, Motor 16%, Personal Accident (PA) 40%, and Fire 10%. The diversified business mix continues to support resilience and consistent performance. SBI General Insurance continued to lead the Personal Accident (PA) segment, maintaining its position as the No. 1 in private and SAHI insurer.

This year, the Company demonstrated improved underwriting performance, with the loss ratio improving to 78.3% in FY26 from 82.4% in FY25. Profit After Tax (PAT) stood at INR 553 crores, compared to INR 509 crores in FY25. In terms of financial position, the Company’s solvency ratio stood at 1.90 times, well above the regulatory requirement, highlighting its strong capital position.

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Mr. Naveen Chandra Jha, MD & CEO, SBI General Insurance, said, “Our FY26 performance reflects our continued focus on growing faster than the market consistently while strengthening our core business & growing profit responsibly. At SBI General Insurance, we are focused on improving accessibility to insurance solutions and making protection more inclusive and easier to access for customers across segments and geographies. As we move forward, we remain committed to expanding reach, deepening insurance penetration, and building a future-ready organization.”

Mr. Jitendra Attra, CFO, SBI General Insurance, added, “Our financial performance reflects strong underwriting discipline and continued focus on operational efficiency. The improvement in loss ratio demonstrates the effectiveness of our risk selection and claims management practices. We will continue to focus on capital efficiency, prudent risk management, and delivering consistent financial performance in a dynamic operating environment.”

SBI General Insurance continues to build on its growth trajectory through targeted investments in technology, product innovation, advanced analytics, and customer-centric solutions. The Company is also expanding its presence across India by strengthening distribution networks, deepening reach in Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, and enhancing accessibility through various channels. Backed by a diversified business mix and disciplined execution, SBI General Insurance is well positioned to sustain profitable growth and further consolidate its standing in the Indian general insurance sector.

About SBI General Insurance

SBI General Insurance, one of the fastest-growing private general insurance firms, backed by the robust support of SBI, upholds a legacy of trust and security. We position ourselves as India’s most trusted general insurer amidst a dynamic landscape. Since our establishment in 2009, our expansion has been substantial, growing from 17 branches in 2011 to a nationwide presence in 146 branches.

The company received numerous prestigious accolades, showcasing its excellence across various domains. Key honors include being named as the Domestic General Insurer of the Year – India and Claims Initiative of the Year – India at Insurance Asia Awards 2025 Singapore, Large General Insurance category at the Mint BFSI Summit & Awards, the 3rd InsureNext Awards 2024 for Best Claims Settlement, and India’s Best General Insurer of the Year at the 7th Insurance Conclave Awards. At the India Insurance Summit & Awards 2024, the company secured titles for General Insurance Company of the Year and Leading Implementer of Analytics Technology in Insurance. Additionally, it was honored as the Best BFSI Brand at the ET NOW Best BFSI Brands Conclave 2024 and included in BW BusinessWorld’s India’s Most Respected Companies. Certified as a Great Place to Work in 2024, the company also excelled at the ETBFSI Exceller Awards 2024 with recognition for Best Claims Management in Insurance and Best CSR Campaign of the Year, further highlighting its commitment to social responsibility and innovation.

With a team of over 9,000+ employees and our multi-distribution model covering Bancassurance, Agency, OEM, Broking, Retail Direct Channels, and Digital collaborations, we are committed to providing both Suraksha and Bharosa to all our consumers. Leveraging a vast network that includes over 22000+ SBI branches, plus agents, financial alliances, OEMs, and digital partners, we extend our services to even the most remote areas of India. Our offerings cater to Retail, Corporate, SME and Rural segments, and our diverse product portfolio ensures accessibility through both digital and physical channels.

Crietor Group, a purposeful investment holding company and a dynamic platform for investments across real estate and retail, continues to shape meaningful change in the lives of its stakeholders by elevating lifestyles with intent and clarity. Rooted in its philosophy, “Going, growing and glowing together,” the Group goes beyond transactions to create environments that inspire aspiration, growth, and a deeper sense of living.
 

O. Asher, Managing Director of India Operations at Malabar Gold and Diamonds, unveiled the SKYE project in the presence of Iflu Rahman, Founder and Managing Director, Crietor Group
 

In line with this vision, Crietor Group has unveiled its marquee residential development, The Skye – Private Residences for Visionaries, at a spectacular evening hosted at Kashmir Kunnu, Calicut. O. Asher, Managing Director of India Operations at Malabar Gold and Diamonds, unveiled the project. Ms. Reshmi Bhatt, Munees Mustafa and Ajnas C V, Executive Directors of Crietor Group, were also present at the event. The event witnessed the presence of over 300 aspiring visionaries from diverse walks of life.

The evening was further elevated by a strategic collaboration with Lamborghini, which showcased two of its latest icons, the Lamborghini Urus and the Lamborghini Temerario, reinforcing the spirit of aspiration and performance that defines The Skye.

Mr. Iflu Rahman, Founder & Managing Director of Crietor Group, shared his perspective, “I believe there is a home behind every visionary. A shift in space is not just emotional, it is scientific. The right environment has the power to unlock deeper clarity, sharper thinking, and greater potential. Visionaries like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates chose serene, intentional settings to shape their ideas and lives. Because every visionary is meant to fly, and to truly fly, they need the sky.”

The Skye stands as one of India’s first intent-based residential developments for visionaries. Located at Kashmir Kunnu, a rare tabletop terrain overlooking sweeping, mist-laden valleys, the project offers a setting that is both elevated and deeply connected to nature, while remaining just 12 minutes from the city centre.

“The Skye cannot be replicated, for it is nature’s singular and spectacular gift,” he added.

Spread across 10 acres, The Skye comprises 62 private luxury residences, with individual land parcels ranging from 7 to 12 cents. Built-up areas range between 3,200 sq. ft. and 5,700 sq. ft., offering expansive living formats tailored for elevated lifestyles. Pricing starts from INR 2.6 crore onwards, excluding GST and statutory charges, with a total project value of approximately INR 250 crore.

Mr. Derriel John, COO of Crietor Realty, noted, “The project is futuristic in its essence, defined by a rare location, timeless architecture, thoughtfully designed amenities, and seamless access to key utilities. It is more than a home; it is an investment in a living work of art that continues to appreciate through its rarity and lasting relevance.”

The development features a 22,000 sq. ft. clubhouse and penthouse facility, complemented by a host of premium amenities, including a 20-metre swimming pool, a 150-seater conference hall, a putting mini-golf course, a pickleball court, a 1.5 km cycling and jogging track, a valley-view deck, and a functional helipad, among others.

Accessibility has been carefully planned, with a direct 600-metre access from a 7-metre-wide highway leading into well-laid 9-metre-wide internal roads, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the development.

The architecture of The Skye is designed to dissolve the boundary between the built form and its surroundings, allowing residents to experience the landscape not as a backdrop, but as an integral part of everyday living. Even from within the home, the outside flows inward, creating a continuous interaction between space, nature, and self.

Ms. Dadu Iflu, Executive Director, Crietor Group, added, “The Skye is already a meeting place of visionaries. Shriya Saran, known for her pan-Indian appeal and associations with leading brands such as Pantene, Lux, Coca-Cola, and Colgate, joins as The Skye’s brand ambassador. Zeba Tommy, the voice behind ‘Queen of the Night’ from Lokah, has sung the anthem of The Skye.”

The Skye is not just a residential development. It is a curated environment for those who seek to expand the horizons of their vision. At Crietor, it is said: “The Skye is the limit.” The Group invites visionaries to own their piece of the sky and be part of a new growth story.

Galgotias University hosted the annual Parisamvad 3.0, A Human Capital Symposium, bringing together more than 100 senior human resource leaders and representatives from over 80 companies for a high-level dialogue on employability, hiring trends, and the changing future of work.

More than 100 top HR leaders from leading companies convened at Galgotias University’s annual Human Capital Symposium

The participants included CHROs, Vice Presidents, Talent Heads, and senior professionals from sectors such as financial services, technology, IT services, artificial intelligence, consulting, manufacturing, and digital enterprises, further strengthening industry relations and partnerships with Galgotias University. The symposium created a valuable interface between industry leaders, university leadership, faculty, and students, reinforcing the university’s consistent placement performance and strong recruiter engagement.

Panel discussions examined some of the most relevant workforce questions facing graduates and employers today, including whether artificial intelligence will replace jobs or redesign them, the balance between technical and human capabilities, student readiness for workplace feedback and rejection, and the growing move from degree-based hiring to skills-first recruitment.

The symposium comes alongside strong placement outcomes at Galgotias University, which has secured more than 4,700 placement offers for the Batch of 2026. Recruiters include Infosys, Capgemini, Cognizant, Accenture, EY, and several other leading organisations. Multiple students have secured offers ranging from INR 15 lakh to INR 26.6 lakh per annum.

The University has also recorded more than 80 dream offers across the Big 4 firms including Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC, reflecting sustained demand for Galgotias talent across leading employers.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer of Galgotias University said, “Top HR leaders at this year’s symposium gave our students and faculty direct access and advantage to real-time hiring priorities, industry insights, and evolving skill demands. This deep industry integration keeps Galgotias University’s curriculum aligned with employer needs, strengthens career readiness, and powers one of the strongest placement records in the country, with consistently higher and better outcomes year after year.”

The University’s Career Planning and Development Division played an instrumental role in conceptualising and executing the symposium, while continuing to build strong recruiter relationships and career pathways for students across disciplines.

Parisamvad 3.0 further strengthened Galgotias University’s position as an institution closely connected with industry and focused on preparing graduates for evolving professional environments.

Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Japan, has announced a new milestone under its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership with Manzil Mystics through its support towards overhauling the Musical Bus—India’s first mobile music classroom and recording studio. The initiative was unveiled recently at Gandhi Smriti, New Delhi, marking a significant step towards making structured music education more accessible and inclusive.

India’s First Mobile Music Classroom & Recording Studio – The Musical Bus

Following the successful pilot of the Learning Through Music project in Patna, this next phase under the Delhi Project strengthens Casio India’s role in expanding access to music education. The Musical Bus is a pioneering, on‑the‑move platform that connects children and young musicians with opportunities to learn, create, and perform, regardless of geographical or socio‑economic barriers.

As an all-in-one mobile solution, the Musical Bus is equipped with a professional-level music classroom, a fully functional recording studio, and a performance setup on wheels. The initiative is designed to foster creativity, build confidence, and provide hands-on exposure to the fundamentals of music production and performance. This bus aims to cover various schools, colleges and other community spaces, thereby bringing the musical experience and access to learning closer to the ground.

Through this association, Casio India and Manzil Mystics aim to empower underserved communities by enabling access to structured music education. The program builds a natural synergy by amalgamating Casio electronic keyboards into curriculum-based instrumental learning modules to facilitate practical skill development, while also creating pathways for livelihood opportunities in the music and creative industries. Currently, the Delhi Project is supporting 50 young musicians through structured upskilling, with plans to expand its reach in the near future.

Under this collaboration, the program will focus on providing structured musical training both vocal and instrumental including Casio electronic keyboards, alongside curriculum-based modules designed to develop practical skills that can translate into future music education. The initiative will particularly target underprivileged students studying in government schools and young musicians from low-income backgrounds, enabling them to access high-quality music education and professional development opportunities.

Casio India was honoured to welcome Mr Vijay Goel, former Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports and currently the Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, as the Chief Guest at the event. His presence underscored the importance of inclusive cultural initiatives and reinforced the role of music as a catalyst for education and social empowerment.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Akira Watanabe, Director, Casio India, “At Casio, we have always believed in the transformative power of music as a universal language that inspires creativity and builds confidence. By supporting the Musical Bus, we are reaffirming our commitment to making music education accessible to all. This initiative allows us to nurture talent and enable young musicians to explore sustainable opportunities in the creative ecosystem.”

The launch event at Gandhi Smriti brought together representatives from Casio India and Manzil Mystics, along with young musicians and community members. The event showcased the potential of the Musical Bus as a dynamic learning and performance space, reinforcing the role of music as a powerful medium for education, expression, and social change.

Through its continued partnership with Manzil Mystics, Casio India remains committed to building an inclusive ecosystem that promotes music education, supports aspiring artists, and enables individuals from underserved communities to pursue creative and sustainable career pathways.

About Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd.

Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd. (CIC) is the Indian subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Casio India has established a dynamic presence in the Indian market since 1996, emerging as a leading and cherished consumer goods manufacturer. Casio India’s range of products include sales and marketing of Timepieces, Electronic Musical Instruments, Desktop Calculators and Scientific Calculators.

Setting the benchmark for excellence, Casio India is dedicated to embodying the spirit of innovation and quality that defines the Casio legacy. With a strong commitment to its corporate creed of “creativity and contribution,” Casio has consistently translated this ethos into the creation of innovative products making a positive impact on society.

For more information, visit www.casio.com/in

As S.L. Raheja Hospital – A Fortis Associate marks its 45th year of delivering trusted healthcare, it reinforces its commitment to clinical excellence with the launch of two close-to-heart initiatives: a state-of-the-art Histopathology Department and the introduction of a robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery system. These developments were unveiled today at a special event at the hospital, graced by honourable trustees Mrs. Suman Raheja and Mrs. Jyoti Raheja.

S.L. Raheja Hospital Mumbai’s trustees & clinicians at the inauguration of advanced Histopathology Dept. & Orthopedic Robotic System, advancing precision & patient care in the city

The Histopathology Department, originally established by late Dr. Anita Borges, was relaunched in its upgraded form, seamlessly blending legacy, deep clinical, expertise & enhanced capabilities. Recognised as a coveted Centre of Excellence for Histopathology by leading cancer institutes across India and internationally, the department has, to date, analysed over 2,20,000 samples till date since its inception in 2003. The department receives samples from neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh and Nepal, as well as from across major Indian states, covering a wide spectrum of complex cancer diagnoses, including lymphoma, breast, soft tissue, gynaecological, bladder, prostate, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers. The upgraded department is equipped with advanced quality control measures and diagnostic protocols that will ensure accurate, prompt, and dependable results, which will facilitate better decision-making among healthcare providers.

In its continued efforts to leverage technology for better patient care, the hospital also introduced orthopaedic robot which will be a smart assistant to the surgeon and enhance accuracy, precision & patient outcomes. This version of robot that would be used for orthopaedic surgeries facilitates better implant positioning, decreased trauma, precise alignment, and faster recovery times for patients undergoing Unilateral Knee Replacement (UKR) and Total Hip Replacement (THR).

Highlighting the significance of these advancements, Dr Kunal Punamiya, CEO, S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate, added, “Over 45years into our journey of delivering exceptional healthcare, these two launches underscore our commitment to enhancing patient experiences across the continuum of care: from diagnosis to treatment. The upgraded Histopathology Department will enable clinicians to make faster, more informed decisions, while our robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery system will bring greater precision to surgical procedures. Through these advancements, we aim to deliver improved clinical outcomes and enhanced patient experiences.”

Dedicating this department to late Dr. Anita Borges, Dr Pravin Mahajan, HOD – Histopathology, S.L.  Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate said, “As a centre of excellence since its inception, our Histopathology Department has built its reputation on a simple promise, accuracy, integrity, and trust. Over the years, it has been called upon across the country to provide second opinions in complex cases, reflecting the deep confidence clinicians place in its expertise. At its heart, however, this journey has always been about patients. Every diagnosis carries a responsibility, and every report a human story.”

The department at S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim has been further reinforced with a dedicated team of specialist doctors like Dr Maria Alina DeSouza, Consultant – Histopathologist & Dr Vivek Parameshwar, Consultant – Histopathologist, adding to its strong capability of diagnostics and clinical precision.

Commenting on the launch of the orthopedic robotic system, Dr. Lalit Panchal, Senior Consultant – Orthopedic Surgery, S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate said, “Robotic-assisted surgery acts as an intelligent support to the surgeon, helping improve precision and surgical outcomes. It allows for better planning and execution of procedures. The system helps deliver safer, less invasive surgeries with natural results and faster recovery.”

The orthopaedic robotic programme at S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim is supported by a skilled surgical team, including Dr Vaibhav Kasodekar, Senior Consultant – Orthopaedic Surgeon & Dr Anoop Dhamangaonkar, Consultant – Joint Replacement and Orthopaedic Surgeon, who bring extensive experience in advanced joint replacement procedures.

With these launches, S.L. Raheja Hospital – A Fortis Associate reinforces its commitment to delivering quality healthcare, with a strong focus on outcomes, safety, and patient experience. 
 

About IHH Healthcare (“IHH”)
IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider shaping the future of care. Driven by our aspiration to Care. For Good., we unite medical excellence and innovation, pushing boundaries through our trusted brands such as Acibadem, Gleneagles, Fortis, Island, Mount Elizabeth, Pantai, Parkway and Prince Court. Across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, India and Greater China, our 70,000-strong team delivers world-class excellence every day, within and beyond our 140 healthcare facilities, including more than 80 hospitals. Our comprehensive services span the full healthcare continuum, from primary and ambulatory to quaternary care, complemented by diagnostics, imaging, rehabilitation, telehealth and home care. In partnership with our stakeholders, IHH is advancing value-based care, building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and creating meaningful impact, as we work towards our vision to become the world’s most trusted healthcare services network. www.ihhhealthcare.com 

Chitkara University hosted the 10th edition of its Research Excellence Awards, recognising outstanding contributions in research, innovation, and academic excellence across disciplines. The milestone edition marks a decade of advancing high-impact research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Celebrating brilliance, dedication, and the spirit of innovation at the 10th Research Excellence Awards held at Chitkara University

The awards recognised excellence in research publications, patents, sponsored research funding, technical consultancy, and academic event leadership. The initiative reflects the University’s continued focus on strengthening its research ecosystem and promoting innovation-led education.

This ecosystem is supported by dedicated research centres, industry collaborations, access to advanced laboratories, and a strong emphasis on mentorship, enabling faculty and scholars to pursue meaningful, application-oriented research that addresses real-world challenges.

The event was attended by Ravin Nair, Managing Director, QS I-GAUGE, and Cyril Benz, Associate Director, Client Partnerships, QS I-GAUGE, highlighting the importance of global quality benchmarks in higher education and research.

This year saw a significant rise in awardees, indicating the growing scale and impact of research activities at the University. The increase reflects a strong culture of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge creation.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Madhu Chitkara said, “At Chitkara University, research is not just an academic pursuit; it is a powerful tool to solve real-world challenges and create meaningful impact. The growing number of awardees this year reflects the passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit of our academic community. As we celebrate the tenth edition of the Research Excellence Awards, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing an environment where innovation thrives, and ideas translate into outcomes that benefit society.”

The Research Excellence Awards 2026 reinforce Chitkara University’s position as a leading research-driven university in India, contributing to global knowledge, innovation, and societal progress.

About Chitkara University
Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC A+ accredited private university with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, recognised among India’s leading institutions by NIRF, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality, and emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Machine Learning.

The University’s academic model integrates internships, live industry projects, and research into core curricula, supported by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry partners. Global Pathway programs, developed in partnership with leading universities in the United States, Australia and Canada, allow students to complete part of their degree abroad. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied learning, Chitkara University, prepares graduates for careers in India and internationally.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.

• Strong retail franchise with a Retail Book Size of Rs. 1,19,508 Crore, up 26% Year-on-Year (YoY) for the financial year ended March 31, 2026

• Highest ever annual retail disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 stood at Rs. 83,213 Crore, up 39% YoY

• Consolidated Book stands at Rs. 1,21,728 Crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2026

• Launches 5-year strategic plan Lakshya 2031

• Continuous improvement in credit cost and profitability trajectory

• Board recommends a dividend of Rs. 2.75 per equity share for financial year ended March 31, 2026

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded highest ever consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 3,003 Crore (before effect of Labour Code considered in the third quarter ended December 31, 2025) for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, up 14% Year-on-Year (YoY). The Company has posted a consolidated PAT of Rs. 807 Crore, up 27% YoY for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026. 

Highlights of L&T Finance Ltd.’s financial performance – FY26 and Q4FY26

The retail book now stands at Rs. 1,19,508 Crore, up 26 % when compared with retail book for the financial year ended March 31, 2025. Consolidated Book stands at Rs. 1,21,728 Crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2026. The Company has also recorded highest ever annual retail disbursements at Rs. 83,213 Crore, up 39% YoY and highest ever quarterly retail disbursements at Rs. 24,107 Crore, up 62% for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026. The Board recommends a dividend of Rs. 2.75 per equity share for financial year ended March 31, 2026.

The Company accelerates technology deployment momentum to fully transform to an AI-enabled lender. After successfully executing its strategic plan Lakshya 2026, the Company announced its next 5-year strategic plan Lakshya 2031. As a part of its Lakshya 2031 strategy, the Company aims to balance resilient growth with consistent returns and truly transform into a Risk-first, Technology-first, Multi-product Retail Financier of Choice. The Company will be focusing on tech-enabled granular execution and will work towards consistently achieving a Book Growth of 20%+, maintaining Credit Cost of <2%, achieving Return on Assets (RoA) between 3% – 3.2%, and Return on Equity (RoE) between 16% – 18%.

The Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, crossed more than 2.40 Crore downloads as of March 31, 2026, comprising more than 19.2 Lakh customers on the rural side. As of March 31, 2026, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 9,500 Crore while servicing over 12 Crore requests and has sourced loans of around Rs. 29,000 Crore.

Commenting on the financial results Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF, said, “FY26 has been a good year for us, despite significant headwinds in our microfinance business in the initial months of the year and the end of the year closing with geopolitical tensions. Through the course of the year, we remained steadfast in our approach—tightening credit and risk administration frameworks, strengthening collections infrastructure, accelerating our AI-led technology transformation and continuously focusing on growth across all our business lines. On the microfinance business, our focus was on navigating the cycle with prudence and our efforts have yielded results, with business parameters across both disbursements and collection efficiencies now reverting to near pre-crisis levels, giving us confidence that FY27 will be a stable and productive year for this segment. 

FY26 also marks the successful completion of our Lakshya 26 strategic plan, achieving most of our stated objectives even amid volatility in the credit environment. This reflects the resilience of our diversified franchise, disciplined execution, and the strength of the digital and analytics capabilities that we built during the plan period. As we embark on our next five-year strategic roadmap, Lakshya 31, we are setting ourselves ambitious and measurable targets to drive consistent growth with improved profitability. While global geopolitical uncertainties persist, we remain confident that the solid foundation established during the Lakshya 26 period will enable us to deliver steady outcomes and create long-term value for all stakeholders and truly transform L&T Finance into a Risk-first, Technology-first, Multi-product Retail Financier of Choice.”

Key Highlights:

Building a diversified retail franchise:

Rural Business Finance:
Book size up 17% to Rs. 30,805 Crore vs. Rs. 26,320 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 25,882 Crore vs. Rs. 20,921 Crore, up 24% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 7,208 Crore vs. Rs. 5,114 Crore, up 41% YoY

Farmer Finance:
Book size up 12% to Rs. 16,970 Crore vs. Rs. 15,219 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 8,674 Crore vs Rs. 7,935 Crore, up 9% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 2,037 Crore vs. Rs. 1,755 Crore, up 16% YoY

Two-Wheeler Finance:
Book size up 17% to Rs. 14,372 Crore vs. Rs. 12,321 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 10,787 Crore vs. Rs. 9,285 Crore, up 16% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 2,930 Crore vs. Rs. 1,857 Crore, up 58% YoY 

Personal Loans:
Book size up 70% to Rs. 14,666 Crore vs. Rs. 8,648 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 12,220 Crore vs. Rs. 6,096 Crore, up 100% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 3,786 Crore vs. Rs. 1,915 Crore, up 98% YoY. Scaled up Personal Loans disbursements through Big Tech partnerships, contributing 38% to the total personal loan disbursements in Q4FY26 vs. 22% in Q4FY25 (38% in FY26 vs. 10% in FY25)

Housing Loans and Loan Against Property (LAP):
Book size up 20% to Rs. 30,009 Crore vs. Rs. 24,929 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 11,507 Crore vs. Rs. 9,582 Crore, up 20% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 3,134 Crore vs. Rs. 2,332 Crore, up 34% YoY

SME Finance:
Book size up 30% to Rs. 8,507 Crore vs. Rs. 6,524 Crore YoY. Annual disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 6,130 Crore vs Rs. 5,000 Crore, up 23% YoY. Quarterly disbursements for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 1,838 Crore vs Rs. 1,528 Crore, up 20% YoY

Gold Finance:
Book size reached Rs. 2,845 Crore in Q4FY26. Annual Disbursements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 at Rs. 6,700 Crore in FY26. Gained momentum in Gold Finance branches expansion, exiting Q4FY26 with 330 branches addition of 200 new branches since acquisition of the business in June 2025

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF):

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) ( www.LTFINANCE.com ), is a leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), offering a range of financial products and services. Headquartered in Mumbai, the Company has been rated ‘AAA’ — the highest credit rating — by four leading domestic rating agencies. In August 2025, S&P Global Ratings upgraded LTF long-term Issuer Credit Rating to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” and short-term issuer credit rating to “A-2” from “A-3”. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF Long-Term Foreign and Local-Currency Issuer Default Ratings of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. It has also received leadership scores and ratings by global and national Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating providers for its sustainability performance. The Company has been certified as a Great Place To Work® and has also won many prestigious awards for its flagship CSR project – “Digital Sakhi”- which focuses on women’s empowerment and digital and financial inclusion. Under Right to Win, being in the ‘right businesses’ has helped the Company become one of the leading financiers in key Retail products. The Company is focused on transforming into a Risk-first, Technology-first, Multi-product Retail Financier of Choice as part of the Lakshya 2031 strategic plan. The Company has over 2.8 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.
 

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In a spectacular celebration that blended sporting excellence, lifestyle innovation, and community spirit, Sumadhura Group unveiled Bengaluru’s first-ever Residential Branded Clubhouse at Folium, Whitefield—setting a bold new benchmark for luxury living in India. The grand unveiling event was marked by the presence of some of India’s most celebrated sports icons, including Saina Nehwal – Olympic medallist, former World No. 1 Badminton champion and Co-founder of Badminton Pros, Saurav Ghosal – Commonwealth Games medallist and Founder of Saurav Ghosal Squash, Puja Tomar- India’s only woman UFC fighter and Brand partner of UFC FIT. Their presence elevated the event into a truly iconic gathering, symbolizing the convergence of global sporting excellence with next-generation residential living.

(L–R): Bharat Kumar Kandukuri, Srinivas Moramchetty, Ali Kasmani, Paresh Prabhakar, Puja Tomar, Saina Nehwal, Saurav Ghosal and Pavit Singh at Folium by Sumadhura launch, Bengaluru

The other dignitaries who graced the grand unveil included Paresh Prabhakar, Tiger Shroff’s mentor & Business Head at Matrix Dance Academy, Ali Kasmani, Head of Operations, Michael Phelps Swimming along with Mr. Srinivas Moramchetty, Director- Sales & Marketing, Sumadhura Group, Mr. Bharat Kumar Kandukuri, Director, Sumadhura Group and Pavit Singh, Founder, Ileseum Clubs.

Adding an unforgettable experiential layer to the evening, the event featured exclusive celebrity-led activities, where residents won a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience immersive sessions with sports legends at their respective branded academies within the clubhouse. Participants stepped onto the court with Saina Nehwal for an interactive badminton session, rallied with Saurav Ghosal on the squash court, engaged in an energizing MMA session led by Puja Tomar, and joined high-energy, professionally guided dance sessions conducted by Matrix Dance Academy—adding a dynamic layer of creativity, movement, and engagement to the experience.

The event drew an impressive turnout of 1000+ participants including residents and lifestyle enthusiasts, reflecting strong interest in this pioneering concept.

With this collaboration at Folium by Sumadhura, world-class academies such as Michael Phelps Swimming, UFC FIT, Saurav Ghosal Squash, and Matrix Dance Academy are entering Bengaluru, bringing global-standard lifestyle experiences to the city. Additionally, Badminton Pros is launching its first-ever residential community academy in Bengaluru at Folium.

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Mr. Srinivas Moramchetty, Director-Sales & Marketing, Sumadhura Group said, “Folium is one of our signature developments, and this Branded Clubhouse reflects how we are reimagining urban living in Bengaluru. In a city shaped by long commutes and traffic, access to quality lifestyle experiences is often limited. With this initiative, Sumadhura has redefined and elevated urban lifestyles by bringing professionally managed, world-class sports, fitness, recreation, and wellness experiences directly into residents’ everyday lives, bringing in global experiences to one’s doorstep, eliminating the need to travel, and giving time back to what truly matters. For us, curating Bengaluru and Hyderabad’s first residential Branded Clubhouse goes far beyond convenience; it reflects a conscious effort to elevate lifestyle standards, enabling healthier routines, nurturing talent, and fostering stronger community connections. We have gone above and beyond to deliver a future-ready lifestyle that is active, seamless, and truly world-class for our customers.”

Expressing enthusiasm, Saina Nehwal, Co-Founder of Badminton Pros Academy said, ”Partnering with Folium to bring my badminton academy into a branded residential clubhouse alongside other iconic academies is a very special opportunity. In a city like Bengaluru, where badminton is deeply loved and part of the sporting culture, this initiative feels especially meaningful. It allows residents to access structured coaching, professional training, and best mentorship within their own community, bringing the sport closer to everyday life. This can help nurture young talent, encourage more families to take up badminton, and strengthen the city’s already vibrant sporting ecosystem, shaping India’s next generation of badminton champions and elevating the country’s presence on the global stage. I am happy to be part of a vision that makes world-class badminton a natural part of daily living.”

Managed by Ileseum Clubs – one of India’s fastest growing lifestyle delivery companies, the Branded Clubhouse at Folium is not just an amenity—it is a fully integrated, professionally curated lifestyle ecosystem. Through strategic collaborations with six globally recognized academies at Folium, residents gain unparalleled access to world-class training, featuring global, Olympic-level methodologies, thoughtfully designed programs, and immersive experiences delivered in association with distinguished academies such as:

• Badminton Pros by Saina Nehwal

• Saurav Ghosal Squash

• UFC FIT

• Matrix Dance Academy

• Michael Phelps Swimming

• Mahesh Bhupathi Tennis Academies

With Ileseum Clubs overseeing program design, global partnerships, certified coach onboarding, and day-to-day operations, the Branded Clubhouse at Folium benefits from strong operational and experiential support. This ensures seamless, year-round engagement that sustains wellness routines, skill development, and continuous talent progression for residents.

Sumadhura Group plans to integrate Branded Clubhouses across select upcoming marquee residential projects in Bengaluru.

About Sumadhura Group

With three decades of legacy, Sumadhura Group is known for its prime locations, ahead-of-time delivery, high quality, and smart design in residential, commercial and warehousing projects, catering to a cross-section of home buyers and business entities in the real estate landscape of South India.

Sumadhura’s unique customer-centric approach and commitment to delivering excellence and superior products have earned the company-wide recognition as a credible and reliable entity in the industry, across Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The brand promise of “Foundation of Happiness” mirrors the group’s commitment to becoming the very foundation upon which happiness is built.

With over 56 projects delivered, spanning over 17 million square feet, and over 40 million square feet in the pipeline, Sumadhura has emerged as a prominent brand in the fast-evolving market of developers. Evolving beyond residential developments, the group has expanded its portfolio into commercial, warehousing, co-living, and other real estate verticals to cater to diverse customer needs.