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India Risks Losing its Workforce Advantage, India’s First Workforce Health Index by Loop Reveals

Loop, India’s leading Group health insurance and health benefits provider, today announced the launch of the Workforce Health Index (WHI), India’s first national-level benchmark report on the health of working professionals. Built on 214,142 lab test parameters and lifestyle surveys from 3,437 professionals across major cities, the report provides unprecedented insights into the biological and lifestyle health of India’s urban workforce.

Loop Health Survey Report

The WHI uncovers systemic health risks that threaten long-term productivity:

  • Metabolic health: 37.2% of professionals show abnormal glucose metabolism-early signals of diabetes risk in prime career years.

  • Sleep & stress: 27.3% sleep less than 6 hours nightly, while 33.9% report high stress. Women report 17% higher stress levels than men.

  • Gender health gap: 36.5% of female professionals are clinically anemic compared to 8.2% of men, a 4.5x difference.

  • City hotspots: Delhi NCR shows 34.8% liver dysfunction, while over 82% Mumbai have HDL cholesterol below the protective level of 50 mg/dL.

India’s workforce is running on borrowed health,” said Mayank Kale, Co-founder & CEO of Loop. “The Workforce Health Index gives leaders measurable proof of what’s at stake. Without timely interventions, organizations risk shorter careers, rising claims, and lost productivity. But with the right policies, we can extend healthy working years and strengthen our growth story.”

Health experts note that many risks stem from systemic and workplace drivers, not just personal choices. “These are not isolated lifestyle lapses,” said Harpreet Singh, President, Healthcare, Loop. “The data shows patterns shaped by work culture, access to preventive care, and benefit design. This means employers have the power to change the trajectory.”

The WHI is designed as a decision-making tool for CFOs, CHROs, and policymakers, helping them shape benefits, workplace design, and preventive health strategies. Loop plans to update the index annually, enabling leaders to track trends and measure progress.

The full Workforce Health Index report, along with city and industry-level insights, can be accessed here: bit.ly/3VjYvil

About Loop
Loop, India’s leading Group health insurance and healthcare provider, is on a mission to add 20 healthy years to the Indian workforce. By uniting best-in-class insurance, unlimited primary care, and data-led prevention, Loop empowers over 850,000 lives at 1,250+ companies to live longer, healthier lives. Backed by global investors including Y Combinator, Khosla Ventures, Elevation Capital, and General Catalyst, Loop is redefining corporate healthcare for enterprise companies by making prevention profitable, outcomes measurable, and vibrant health possible for every team in India.

HSBC India Unveils a State-of-the-art Branch in Hyderabad’s HITEC City Targeting Affluent Indians

  • Marks a significant milestone by establishing its Raj Bhavan Road branch at a new location in HITEC City, spanning 5,600 sq.ft

  • The HSBC Premier Lounge is designed by renowned interior designer Gauri Khan~

  • Additionally, HSBC has taken up 12,000 sq.ft. in the same premises to serve as corporate office, strengthening its footprint in the region

HSBC India today announced the opening of its branch office in HITEC City, Hyderabad, marking a strategic move to strengthen its presence in one of India’s most dynamic economic hubs. Spanning approximately 5,600 sq. ft., the relocated branch in HITEC City from Raj Bhavan Road marks a significant milestone as HSBC India continues to strengthen its presence to serving the financial needs of India’s growing affluent and internationally-oriented customer base as the leading international bank in the country.

Mr. Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, inaugurates new branch in HITEC City, Hyderabad

HITEC City, a prominent technology and business hub, is home to leading multinational corporations, IT parks, and SEZs, making it one of Hyderabad’s most sought-after micro-markets. Its strategic location and excellent connectivity have positioned it as a magnet for global businesses and talent. Hyderabad has been emerging as a preferred destination for new corporate entrants to India1, boasting 16% of the Grade-A office space among India’s top six cities2. Home to many multinational corporations and 16% of Global Capabilities Centers (GCCs) in the country, Hyderabad is considered one of the fastest-growing GCC hubs in the country3. Driven by technology, pharmaceutical, and real estate sectors, Hyderabad houses 19,800 millionaire households, making up 38% of Telangana’s total millionaire households4. Currently HSBC banks 46% of all MNCs present in India and over 500 GCCs.

The new branch is designed to cater to the unique financial needs of the tech-savvy, affluent and globally connected community in Hyderabad. It offers a comprehensive suite of services, including bespoke wealth solutions, specialized relationship managers, global private banking expertise, and access to HSBC’s extensive international network. The branch also provides commercial banking and global banking and markets capabilities.

Adding a touch of luxury, the Premier Lounge within the branch has been designed by celebrated interior designer Gauri Khan, offering an exclusive and sophisticated banking experience.

Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India, said, “Innovation is driving wealth creation in India, and at HSBC, we are committed to supporting this growth by expanding our footprint in key markets. HITEC City is the ideal location for our ultra-modern branch, which combines HSBC’s world-class offerings, international network, and personalized services. For multinational companies, GCCs and international-minded affluent Indians, HSBC remains the preferred bank. By nurturing and supporting the financial aspirations of globally-minded individuals and businesses in Hyderabad, we aim to contribute to the broader prosperity of India’s evolving economy.

Located in the RMZ Spire building, the branch features a Premier area, retail banking space, and back-office facilities for HSBC employees. Designed with luxurious interiors and a dedicated coffee lounge, the branch offers a range of services, including banking transactions, wealth management solutions, international account opening assistance, lending services, and ATM facilities.

To celebrate the inauguration, HSBC India will host a two-day event featuring an exciting lineup of celebrities from Bollywood and the hospitality industry, bringing together customers and employees for a memorable experience.

The branch will operate from Monday to Saturday (excluding 2nd and 4th Saturdays) between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

With this new relocated branch, HSBC India reaffirms its position as the leading international bank in the country, committed to delivering exceptional services and solutions to its customers.

Note to editors:

1.Asia Commerical Real Estate- Why we are bullish on India office HSBC Global Research 20 Sep 2024

2. ICRA Commercial Real Estate – Office- Hyderabad report Jan 2025

3. Zinnov-Nasscom Report

4. Hurun Wealth Report

HSBC India

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited in India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 26 branches across 14 cities.

HSBC is one of Indias leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country.

HSBC Holdings plc

HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 57 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,214bn at 30 June 2025, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

Loan Network & Navanc Launch India’s First AI Enabled QR Code for Instant Home Loan

Navanc, which is building India’s first comprehensive AI-enabled property creditworthiness stack and score, has joined hands with Loan Network. Loan Network, a digital-native fintech platform that simplifies the home loan journey through AI-powered technology and has partnered with 70+ top lenders to help homebuyers find the best loan offers instantly. Powered by AI, the entire process from credit check to final application is completed online in under 10 minutes. Loan Network has also introduced India’s first builder on-site QR code, enabling walk-in buyers to discover the right lender in just 60 seconds. Unlike competitors, Loan Network delivers not just financial eligibility, but accurate final eligibility by conducting legal and valuation checks upfront.

Loan Network & Navanc Launch India’s First AI Enabled QR Code for Instant Home Loan

Navanc has partnered with Loan Network to revolutionize the approval process for developers and projects involved in home loans. More than 50% of home loans are approved project-driven, and hence, project evaluation is a basic necessity for any financier. By leveraging advanced technology and data-driven insights, this strategic collaboration aims to enable faster evaluations and approvals while broadening access to approved projects for homebuyers.

This partnership offers significant benefits to homebuyers, including quicker home loan processing, foolproof due diligence on the project, and an end-to-end digital loan journey for a home loan customer, while empowering Loan Network to extend its network of certified project developers and its end customer outreach.

Developer and project evaluation is a crucial component of the home loan journey, ensuring investment security, project feasibility, and stakeholder protection. Through the adoption of cutting-edge digital tools, this partnership enhances efficiency, fosters trust, and delivers a superior experience for all involved.

Nagachethan S M, Founder and CEO of Navanc, said, “It has always been Navanc’s vision to create data-driven decision-making for the Financiers and Bankers when it comes to secured lending. Navanc, from day zero, believes in the power of data coupled with cutting-edge technology and Machine Learning (ML) models. Partnering with Loan Network is an honor in this journey. As lending enablers, the whole team at Loan Network is tech-first and understands the way tech could revolutionise the lending industry. This partnership is a testimony that Navanc’s products build more efficient, seamless, and accurate customer experience.”

Navanc Data Sciences Private Limited is a Bengaluru-based start-up with a mission to be India’s most comprehensive, trustworthy AI-powered property creditworthiness stack in the Banking and Financial ecosystem. The company has built a wide range of products and has a wide base of financial institutions as its customers. Navanc has its presence in 11 states across tiers of cities. Navanc was founded in 2021 by Nagachethan S M and Byom Kesh Jha.

Prraveen Khumar N, CBO and Co-founder of Loan Network, said, “If a personal loan can be disbursed in 2 minutes, why shouldn’t a home loan be disbursed in 2 hours That’s the future we’re building. At Loan Network, we reimagine the home loan journey for our customers. We have introduced India’s first builder on-site QR code, which allows walk-in buyers to scan it and discover the right lender in under 60 seconds, enabling them to submit applications directly. Our QR code initiative has a dual advantage; it not only benefits buyers but also provides builders with insight into the financial appetite of potential customers, helping them pitch the right units and create efficiency within the ecosystem. Through our QR code journey and the LN app, we are taking charge of the market by putting the entire home loan process into the hands of our customers – ensuring it is simple, transparent, and digital-first.”

Kranti, CPTO and Co-founder of Loan Network, said, “Wiring Navanc’s valuation into our AI stack turns eligibility into final-eligibility at source; lender-ready eligibility, valuation-verified, and explainable. Buyers get instant clarity; lenders get first-time-right files.”

Manish Agrawal, Founder and CEO of Loan Network, said, “At Loan Network, our vision has always been simple yet powerful: get it right the first time, powered by technology. We are here not only to facilitate lending; our purpose is to transform how people approach borrowing. It’s about guiding them to understand why to borrow, when it makes sense, and how to do it responsibly. By reducing bias and limiting discretion, we ensure every decision is anchored in transparency and data, leaving no room for uncertainty. What we are building is a lending journey where customers feel informed, empowered, and confident in the choices they make.”

For more information, please visit www.navanc.com | loannetwork.app.

Tetra Pak Showcases World-class, Made-in-India Solutions at Indian Ice Cream Expo 2025

Tetra Pak, world’s leading food processing and packaging solutions company, is showcasing a portfolio of innovative and Made-in-India solutions at the Indian Ice Cream Expo (IICE) 2025 in Delhi. With a strong focus on making premium technology more accessible, Tetra Pak aims to empower local ice cream businesses to innovate, scale, and deliver high-quality products that resonate with evolving consumer tastes.

Designed and manufactured in India, Tetra Pak Rotary Moulder enables precise forming of stick and moulded ice creams

A key highlight is Tetra Pak’s Made in India portfolio of ice cream solutions. By combining global expertise with local manufacturing, Tetra Pak is enabling Indian producers, large and small, to scale operations, introduce new formats, and deliver premium ice cream experiences to consumers nationwide.

Tetra Pak Continuous Freezers support high-volume operations while maintaining quality

Parmod Kandwal, Processing Director, Tetra Pak said “Ice cream is one of the fastest-growing segments in India’s food and beverage industry, and nearly 80% of what the nation enjoys has one thing in common: Tetra Pak’s technology. This deep presence gives us both a responsibility and an opportunity to shape the future of ice cream in India. At IICE 2025, we are showcasing future ready and made in India solutions taking food innovation up a notch. By combining global expertise with local manufacturing, we are enabling businesses of every size to push boundaries, respond to consumer trends, and deliver delightful experiences to millions of Indians.”

With decades of trend leadership and a strong track record of supporting India’s food and beverage ecosystem, Tetra Pak continues to invest in solutions that balance food safety with quality, innovation and accessibility. From smart automation to varied capacities, the solutions are designed to meet evolving consumer demands and production challenges.

Tetra Pak’s showcase at IICE 2025:

  • Rotary Moulder – designed and manufactured in India, this unit enables precise forming of stick and moulded ice creams. It allows producers to experiment with shapes and formats while ensuring smooth, reliable production. Its affordability and local availability make it a strategic choice for businesses looking to expand creatively and cost-effectively.

  • Tetra Pak Continuous Freezers – high-performance freezers designed for consistent freezing, mixing, and air incorporation. Support high-volume operations while maintaining quality, making them ideal for producers scaling up without compromising on indulgence.

  • Tetra Pak High Shear Mixer – designed for optimal wetting and processing, the efficient mixing system produces homogeneous and lump-free products e.g. for dairy, ice cream, beverage and prepared food applications.

  • Tetra Pak Homogenizer – designed for high-pressure homogenization of emulsions and suspensions for a range of dairy products like milk, cream, yoghurt, ice cream mix, as well as beverages like fruit juices and nectars.

  • Extrusion Line – a sophisticated system for crafting intricate ice cream shapes and layered textures, that enables the production of premium, artisanal-style products at scale, ideal for brands aiming to differentiate through visual appeal and mouthfeel.

From plant-based and protein-rich options to artisanal textures and global flavour fusions, Ice Cream Experts at Tetra Pak will share insights into emerging consumer preferences and how producers can stay ahead with flexible, future-ready solutions.

Read more about Tetra Pak’s Ice Cream Solutions at:Indian Ice Cream Expo 2025 | Tetra Pak India

About Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is a world leading food processing and packaging solutions company. Working with our customers and suppliers, we provide access to safe, nutritious food for hundreds of millions of people in more than 160 countries every day.

With over 24,000 employees worldwide, we commit to making food safe and available, everywhere, and we promise to protect what’s good: food, people and the planet.

More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak.com.

car&bike’s Revamped Website Puts the Joy Back into your Drive

car&bike by Mahindra First Choice Wheels, India’s most trusted automotive platform, has unveiled its newly revamped website, marking a significant milestone in its mission of Giving Wheels to Dreams. The upgraded platform introduces a refreshed outlook and a host of customer-centric features designed to make their ‘browsing to buying’ journey more seamless, transparent, and engaging.

car&bike has always been a distinguished platform that hosts different segments- new cars, new bikes and used cars or discovery, comparison and buying, under one roof. The new website aims to deliver simplified journeys, intuitive navigation, interactive graphics and a mobile-first experience, all focused on empowering customers to navigate with confidence and convenience.

The platform is designed to be welcoming and easy to use, avoiding complicated jargon and offering a smooth, enjoyable experience that feels like browsing in person.

Key highlights of the new platform include

  • A reimagined search and browsing journey to make finding the right vehicle effortless and intriguing.

  • Clean, simplified and intuitive product displays with easy navigation to ensure users can access all the necessary details quickly.

  • Authentic insights and trusted reviews and opinions from the car&bike auto experts help customers make informed decisions.

  • The Mobile-first design ensures a fast, responsive experience on the go.

  • Transparent on-road pricing available across all products and variants for greater clarity and trust, which are also competitive in terms of the market segment.

  • Tailored deals and offers from dealerships based on user preferences and location are updated regularly on the platform.

“The revamped car&bike platform reflects our renewed vision to be India’s No. 1 one-stop automotive destination. Every enhancement has been thoughtfully designed to simplify the vehicle buying and selling journey for the consumers, while staying true to our core values of transparency, trust, and innovation,” said Mohammed Turra, CEO, Mahindra First Choice Wheels.

The transformation sheds light on car&bike’s long-term commitment to customer-first innovation and data-driven growth, while reinforcing its position as a trusted destination for millions of vehicle buyers and sellers.

The upgraded car&bike platform is now live and available to users across India here www.carandbike.com.

About car&bike
car&bike by Mahindra First Choice Wheels is one of India’s most trusted auto-tech platforms, offering a comprehensive ecosystem for vehicle buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts. With a focus on transparency, trust, and technology-driven solutions, car&bike enables customers to discover, compare, buy, and sell vehicles seamlessly. From on-road prices and expert reviews to personalized dealer offers and resale options, car&bike continues to redefine how Indians experience vehicle ownership.

About Mahindra First Choice Wheels
Mahindra First Choice Wheels (MFCW), a part of Mahindra group, is India’s leading multi-brand used vehicle company, with a wide network of franchise dealerships across the country. Its services span organized used-car retail, vehicle auctions, certified car programs, financing, and warranty solutions. With its strong footprint and customer-first approach, MFCW has played a pioneering role in building trust and transparency in India’s pre-owned vehicle market.

About Mahindra
Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is a global federation of companies with a presence in over 100 countries. It is among the world’s largest tractor manufacturers by volume and a leader in utility vehicles, information technology, financial services, and renewable energy. Guided by its purpose of ‘Rise,’ Mahindra drives positive change by enabling communities to rise through innovative products and solutions that fuel progress and sustainability worldwide.

All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) Welcomes Maharashtra Government’s Landmark Initiative: Formation of State-Level ‘Dakshata Committee’ for Jewellers’ Security

The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), the apex body representing over 600,000 jewellers across India, heartily welcomes the Maharashtra Government’s historic step of establishing a state-level ‘Dakshata Committee’ (Vigilance Committee) to ensure the safety and security of jewellers.

For a long time, jewellers have faced harassment during investigations of theft and robbery cases involving gold and silver. In some unfortunate incidents, jewellers even lost their lives during the process. Taking cognizance of these grave concerns, on March 14, 2024, the Government of Maharashtra issued a circular under the Home Department, clearly instructing police officers regarding investigations under BNS 317 (formerly Section 411 IPC). The circular also recommended the establishment of a special Dakshata Committee.

This Vigilance Committee has been constituted by the State Government. Representatives from 36 districts of Maharashtra have been included, and in the near future, district-level committees will also be established with the support of GJC. The key objective of this initiative is to build a secure and reliable bridge between the government and trade bodies, ensuring the safety of jewellers and extending full support to honest business practices.

GJC expresses its sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis for this visionary step. The Council also acknowledges the special efforts of Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Pankaj Bhoyar and Hon’ble Smt. Chitra Wagh (MLC) in making this reform a reality.

GJC Chairman, Mr. Rajesh Rokde, said, “This decision marks a historic moment for the jewellery industry in Maharashtra. The formation of the Dakshata Committee reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe business environment in a safe state. We are deeply thankful to Hon’ble Shri Devendra Fadnavis for this far-sighted reform and appreciate the tireless efforts of Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Pankaj Bhoyar and Hon’ble Smt. Chitra Wagh. We congratulate all trade representatives included from various districts of Maharashtra. I urge jewellers across India to make similar efforts in their respective states so that a strong and secure national framework can be created. GJC remains committed to working hand-in-hand with the industry.”

GJC Vice Chairman, Mr. Avinash Gupta, added, “The jewellery sector has long grappled with serious security challenges. The Maharashtra Government’s decision is indeed a revolutionary step, reflecting both sensitivity and strong commitment towards the jeweller community. This initiative will instill confidence among jewellers. We appeal to all our pan-India members to actively engage with their respective state governments for similar committees, so that a safe ecosystem for jewellery business can be built nationwide.

As the national apex body, GJC also invites all state heads across India to replicate such initiatives in their respective states. GJC will extend full support and is preparing a detailed national Plan of Action to help implement this framework across India.

Members of the State-Level Dakshata Committee:

  • Shri Nitin Khandelwal, District Akola – Member

  • Shri Rajesh Rokde, District Nagpur – Member

  • Shri Shailesh Kharote, District Akola – Member

  • Shri Sudhakar Tank, District Nanded – Member

  • Shri Kiran Andilkar, District Pune – Member

  • Shri Mahavir Gandhi, District Solapur – Member

  • Shri Bharat Oswal, District Kolhapur – Member

  • Shri Subhash Vadala (Jain), Mumbai – Member

  • Shri Girish Devrmani, District Solapur – Member

  • Shri Ajit Pendhurkar, Mumbai – Member

  • Shri Rajendra Dindorkar, District Nashik – Member

  • Shri Amol Dhomne, District Wardha – Member

About GJC
The All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) is a national trade council with the objective of promoting and protecting the interests of the jewellery industry. For over 20 years, GJC has been acting as a strong bridge between the government and the industry, spearheading multiple progressive initiatives to elevate the sector to new heights.

Turning Global Shifts into Local Opportunities: Ingersoll Rand Powers India’s Growth

Ingersoll Rand, a global leader in mission-critical flow creation and industrial technologies is offering a comprehensive suite of solutions to the industries in India to maximize performance, efficiency, and reliability in a rapidly changing global industrial landscape.

Sunil Khanduja, Managing Director, Ingersoll Rand India

Instead of investing in new machinery, industries can now extend the life and value of their existing assets through Ingersoll Rand’s offerings like CARE Service which provides complete maintenance and predictive monitoring to maximize uptime, while Ecoplant ensures higher energy efficiency, optimized utility management, and reliability, even during power fluctuations. The company’s rental fleet capabilities introduce and enhance large-capacity centrifugal compressors, oil-free and contact-cooled segments, along with suitable air treatment solutions. Additionally, airend upgrades and retrofits boost machine performance without replacing the entire unit, and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) add-ons empower customers to reduce energy costs and carbon footprints.

Mr. Sunil Khanduja, Managing Director, Ingersoll Rand India, “The global industrial landscape is changing rapidly, with shifting tariffs, changing supply chains, and cautious capital investment. For India, however, this presents an opportunity: with the economy growing around 6%, industries are seeking smarter, more resilient, and cost-effective ways to boost performance.”

At Ingersoll Rand, we see this as the perfect moment to stand closer to our customers. When capex slows, service, efficiency, and upgrades step up. We are here to ensure that our customers achieve more with what they already have-while preparing for the futureSunil added.

With the Naroda manufacturing facility operational since 1965, Ingersoll Rand is further strengthening its Make in India commitment through the upcoming launch of the Sanand plant, further strengthens Ingersoll Rand India’s position as a global hub. “By localizing models previously imported, the company is reducing tariff impact, improving delivery speed, and enhancing supply chain resilience.
“These solutions mean our customers don’t just save costs-they unlock efficiency and sustainability while staying competitive
,” said Mr. Khanduja.

Ingersoll Rand India is leading with faster product launches, wider technology reach across industries with Helix, For FY 2024-25, the company reported a total revenue of INR 1336 crores in India, marking a 11% growth over the previous year. Its profit before tax has reached INR 360 crores-a significant increase over the previous financial year. These results reflect the company’s strategic discipline, local focus, agile supply chain, operational efficiency, and an optimized product mix and services.

These figures are not just numbers-they are the outcome of staying true to what we control: product innovation, customer relationships, service quality, and empowered teams,” Said Mr. Khanduja. “That’s what builds resilience and relevance in a fast-evolving market like India.”

Ingersoll Rand’s product portfolio is designed to perform in high temperature, cope with fluctuating grids and deliver value in cost sensitive settings. Its energy-efficient, oil-free, VFD-enabled technologies directly address the rising power costs, compliance norms, and sustainability mandates. Investments in local R&D, service networks, and IIoT-enabled predictive maintenance tools further ensure reliability and customer confidence across metros, remote belts, and tier-2 zones.

With India’s compressor market is set to grow at 8% CAGR, Ingersoll Rand is positioned to lead with solutions that deliver service, efficiency, and trust at the core.

We don’t just provide compressors-we provide uptime, performance, complete solution and peace of mind,” Mr. Khanduja concludes. “In today’s world, customers don’t need to spend more-they need to achieve more. And that’s exactly what we deliver.”

About Ingersoll Rand
Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR), driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and ownership mindset, is dedicated to helping make life better for our employees, customers, and communities. Customers lean on us for our technology-driven excellence in mission-critical flow creation and industrial solutions across 40+ respected brands where our products and services excel in the most complex and harsh conditions. Our employees develop customers for life through their daily commitment to expertise, productivity and efficiency.

For more information, visit www.IRCO.com.

VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7 Bring Smarter Driving To Indian Drivers

A man in Delhi once dismissed electric cars as little more than expensive appliances on wheels. He liked the idea of clean mobility but could not see himself behind the wheel of something he thought would feel dull. That opinion shifted the day he tried a new electric SUV with adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and a connected infotainment system that spoke to his phone as naturally as his home apps. For him, the switch was not about saving on fuel, although it’s still a significant amount. It was about discovering that driving could feel smarter.

With the arrival of affordable premium models like VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7, Indian car buyers are beginning to see electric vehicles less as frugal green machines and more as tech-rich companions that promise comfort, safety, and smarter driving

The New Priorities of Indian Car Buyers

For quite some time, Indian consumers are usually portrayed as a way to cut fuel costs and reduce emissions. That message still matters, but the market is showing signs of a different hunger. Electric cars made up only about 2.5 percent of India’s passenger vehicle sales in 2024. Yet momentum is building. In the first half of 2025, sales of electric cars and SUVs hit about 74,539 units, a 53 percent jump from the year before.

What drives this growth may not be just lower running costs, as was revealed by the shifting priorities seen in consumer surveys. A study shows that 72 percent of Indian buyers are open to switching brands, and a third point to technology and features as the deciding factor. Eighty-eight percent say they are willing to share personal data if it improves connected services. And 62 percent rank quality and features above price. These figures suggest Indian buyers are not content with bare-bones cars. They want vehicles that can adapt, connect, and protect.

That means the in-car experience now matters as much as range or charging time. Buyers expect a car to provide navigation that feels intuitive, assistance systems that watch the road, and cabins that keep the air clean. In short, the vehicle must feel intelligent, not just economical.

VF 6 and VF 7: Tailored Made for Indian Roads and Families

Into this landscape come the compact VF 6 and sporty VF 7, the ambitious Vietnamese EV maker VinFast’s first electric SUVs built in India at its new Thoothukudi facility. The VF 6 is a compact premium SUV, while the VF 7 is larger and sportier. Both carry technology that speaks directly to Indian preferences.

When it comes to safety, the list of technology is extensive. Each vehicle offers Advanced Driver Assistance at Level 2, a 360-degree surround view, and automatic emergency braking. The VF 7 adds a driver monitoring camera to keep attention on the road. On crowded streets, these systems can matter as much as horsepower.

Inside the cabin, the focus shifts to connectivity. A 12.9-inch infotainment display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with a coloured head-up display and several drive modes. Comfort is not overlooked, with ventilated seats, dual-zone air conditioning with PM 1.0 filtration, and panoramic glass roofs that make the cabin feel more open.

Range and charging speeds aim to cut daily hassles. A quick charge from 10 to 70 percent takes roughly 25 minutes, and certified ranges stretch as far as 468 kilometers for the VF 6 and 532 km for the VF 7. This mix of short charging stops and long distance capability tackles two of the biggest concerns for buyers: waiting at chargers and running out of power on the highway.

For Indian families, these features mean cleaner air inside the cabin and less time spent at service centers. Young professionals see seamless digital links and a design that feels in step with the times. Price-conscious buyers find value without giving up the conveniences common in global models. Together, they suggest these SUVs are built to deliver a premium smart experience that turns EVs from eco gadgets into everyday companions.

Back to the driver in Delhi. Once skeptical, he now notices how the car anticipates his needs, protects him in traffic, and eases the grind of long commutes. For him, and for many Indians entering the EV market, electric cars are no longer just about cutting costs or emissions. They are about driving smarter.

World Animal Day: Demand Change, Make Choices that Stop Animal Suffering, and Move the World to Protect Animals

On the occasion of World Animal Day, more than one hundred children of Cambridge School, Srinivaspuri have written to the Prime Minister of India to end cruel elephant rides in Jaipur in Amer Fort. These children support the campaign of World Animal Protection that has been going on for more than a decade to stop cruelty to elephant rides in Amer Fort in Jaipur. The children of Cambridge School, Srinivaspuri, have learnt, through the initiative of their school, their teachers and above all, themselves, came to the realization that elephants are wild creatures who should be cherished in the wild, where they belong, and not exploited in inimical surroundings in places like Amer Fort.

‘Elephant in Amer Fort’, photograph : Shubhobroto Ghosh

We are extremely pleased that children, the voices and representatives of India’s future, have taken the bold step of writing to the country’s most powerful decision maker,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India. “Children are the stewards of India’s biological diversity and it is so encouraging to see them taking this initiative to implore the Prime Minister of India to honour India’s National Heritage Animal.”

World Animal Protection is currently celebrating seventy five years of the founding of the organization. Over the years, the organization has helped animals in a diverse range of situations from rescuing animals in disasters, wildlife in entertainment, examination of the zoo establishment, sterilization and vaccination of street dogs, exposing inhumane and unhygienic conditions in factory farms and encouraging stakeholders, government and non government to adopt animal friendly policies.

Jaipur as a UNESCO World Heritage City offers tourists a whole range of opportunities to immerse themselves in history and culture, without harming animals. In fact the presence of captive elephants in Amer Fort is not in consonance with the dignity of the historical heritage of the pink city. There are some positive signs of creating a large elephant sanctuary in Kerala, and this model might be replicated for Rajasthan.

World Animal Protection has engaged with teachers and students of Cambridge School in Srinivaspuri and other schools to sensitise them to the needs of wildlife in entertainment and the plight of animals in food systems. World Animal Protection encourages food choices that take us away from meat based diets to plant based diets that are helpful for animals, human health and the environment. World Animal Protection also persistently highlights the risk of zoonotic diseases that can be an offshoot of wildlife exploitation in captivity and intensive factory farming. In this regard, World Animal Protection pays tribute to Jane Goodall for her stalwart efforts to protect animals all her life and mourns her death.

World Animal Day comes close on the heels of Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation who covered animals very deeply within his ambit of compassion. World Animal Protection has written to government and non government stakeholders to retire the riding elephants of Amer Fort in Jaipur to a suitable wildlife friendly sanctuary where they can be rehabilitated for the rest of their lives. “We are hopeful that the Prime Minister will heed the heartfelt pleas of the children who want elephants to live free and wild animals to live free on the occasion of this World Animal Day, in 2025,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India.

IIFL Capital Presents JITO Connect 2025: Celebrating Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Community Leadership

IIFL Capital ( www.iiflcapital.com/hni-wealth), one of India’s leading wealth management firms, has partnered with the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) to present JITO Connect 2025, a flagship initiative designed to foster networking, collaboration, and growth among Jain professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders. The three-day conclave, to be held from October 3-5, 2025 at Hitex, Hyderabad, is likely to draw over two lac participants from across India and overseas for a high-powered exchange of ideas, inspiration, and opportunities.

IIFL Capital presents JITO Connect 2025 in Hyderabad, a 3-day conclave celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation & legacy building

A Platform for Growth and Legacy
With its philosophy of “transforming wealth into legacy,” IIFL Capital brings its expertise in wealth creation, financial insights, and investment opportunities to JITO Connect 2025. As a firm managing $30 billion in assets under advice, management, and custody, IIFL Capital will engage participants through keynote sessions, panel discussions, and thought leadership around capital markets, innovation, and the future of wealth.

Commenting on the partnership Shri. Mr. R Venkataraman, Managing Director at IIFL Capital said, “JITO Connect has grown into one of the most impactful platforms for our community of entrepreneurs and investors and beyond-bringing together leaders, innovators, and change makers. At IIFL Capital, we believe that true wealth is built not only in financial markets but also through the values of entrepreneurship, integrity, and collaboration. Our goal is to empower families and entrepreneurs to convert wealth into a lasting legacy.”

Event Highlights

Day 1 – October 3, 2025

  • The inaugural session features Shri Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India, and Shri Anumula Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister of Telangana, alongside dignitaries from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

  • Leadership Insights by Smt. Smriti Irani, former Cabinet Minister, will set the tone on governance and policy.

  • IIFL Capital Session: A panel on “Capital, Conviction & the Last Decade” with market stalwarts Shri Nilesh Shah and Shri A. Balasubramaniam, followed by a keynote from Raj Narayanam (Zaggle).

  • Keynote addresses includes Shri Nirmal Jain (Founder, IIFL Group) and Shri Sridhar Vembu (Founder, Zoho Corporation), with insights on entrepreneurship and innovation.

  • Evening celebrations include special performance by Shankar Mahadevan & Sons.

Day 2 – October 4, 2025

  • Two sessions on markets & economy features leading investors and entrepreneurs – Shri Utpal Seth, Shri Vijay Kedia, Shri Atul Chordia, and Shri Vijay Darda, Shri Navneet Munot, and Shri R. Venkataraman, highlighting India’s growth trajectory.

  • Shri Daaji (Kamlesh D. Patel) will take a spiritual masterclass on conscious living.

  • Celebrated cricketer Suryakumar Yadav and actor Boman Irani will inspire audiences with personal journeys of discipline and creativity.

  • Smt. Rupali Ganguly and Smt. Bhagyashree will lead powerful engagements with women entrepreneurs.

  • Evening entertainment includes Pritam Live, delivering a memorable music experience.

Day 3 – October 5, 2025

  • Thought-provoking sessions like “India Towards 2047” by Dr. Anand Ranganathan will examine opportunities for India’s future.

  • IIFL Capital Sessions:

  • Business Opportunities with IIFL Capital” – keynote by Shri Praveen K, VP South, Franchise Acquisition & Development. and “Algorithmic Trading – Efficiency, Discipline and Investing” – keynote by Shri Saurav Sisodia.

  • Cultural evenings features poetry and music performances by Shri Manoj Muntashir and Dr. Kumar Vishwas.

About IIFL Capital

IIFL Capital is one of India’s leading wealth management firms with $30 billion in assets under management, advice, and custody. Guided by the philosophy of “transforming wealth into legacy,” IIFL Capital offers holistic solutions across wealth creation, preservation, and succession, empowering families and entrepreneurs to build enduring legacies.

About JITO Connect: JITO Connect is the flagship initiative of Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO), envisioned to unite professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders through global trade summits, youth programs, and business networking opportunities. Over the years, it has grown into a premier platform celebrating entrepreneurship, community service, and innovation.