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.

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 ( 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.

• Digital-first marketing campaign designed to connect with Gen Z and younger audience

• Celebrates with smart lighting and the iconic ‘Yaar Bina Chain Kahan Re’ song

• Transforms every moment into a celebration with the Philips Smart and Deco lighting range

Striking a chord with the younger audience, Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world’s leading lighting company has launched its new festive campaign featuring actor and brand ambassador Sanya Malhotra, spotlighting its latest Philips Smart and Deco lighting range.

‘Light Up Every day’, featuring Sanya Malhotra

This festive season, Signify taps into the vibrant trend of celebrating with music, an experience that deeply resonates with Gen Z and younger audience, who are now becoming significant buyers of premium products. They are vibing to classic tunes, enjoying cultural experiences and creating home decor trends in their own style.

The campaign shows a day in the life of a young couple, who enjoy music, ambient lighting and celebrate every moment. By capturing this fusion of sound, light, and energy, Signify highlights how lighting today is much more than functional, it is a vital part of how people express themselves, set their mood and celebrate life every day. ‘Light Up Every day’, is a celebration of how light is becoming an expressive, emotional and integral part of our lives across generations.

Speaking on the campaign launch Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs and CSR said, “As the festive season lights up homes across the country, Signify celebrates the spirit of togetherness, joy, and vibrant moments. Our campaign, ‘Light Up Every Day,’ reflects the changing consumer landscape, where Gen Z is emerging as a key buyer with a strong preference for personalization, mood-setting, and memorable experiences. Through lighting, we are not just enhancing spaces, we are shaping moments, moods, and memories. This campaign embodies our commitment to delivering lighting solutions that resonate with contemporary lifestyles and celebrate the joy of livingevery day because when light speaks your vibe, every day becomes a celebration“.

Sanya Malhotra said, “Festivals have always held a special place in my heart. This is a time when every Indian home comes alive with warmth, joy, and togetherness. Light is at the core of these celebrations, and that is why I am so excited to be part of this campaign with Signify. I have always admired Philips products especially the Smart and Deco lighting range. The lighting sets the mood, expresses style, and creates lifetime memories. Hope you love this campaign as much as I did in making it.”

To help customers experience the full range firsthand, over 500+ designs are available in 300+ Philips Smart Light Hubs across India. These hubs are experiential retail destinations where consumers can explore different lighting setups, get expert recommendations, and experience how Philips smart lighting solutions can enhance their homes.

The campaign highlights how lights can transform everyday spaces into joyful expressions, featuring Rohan Gurbaxani, choregraphed by Karishma Chavan and music by Aman Pant, and a host of energetic talented professionals. The conceptualization of the campaign is done by the creative agency FCB Kinnect.

The campaign will be available across YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, OTT and social media channels.

Link to the video campaign: www.instagram.com/reel/DPRADoSDDsS/igsh=MWRzbm5mMnpvbTVhZA==

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems and data-enabled services deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2024, we had sales of EUR 6.1 billion, approximately 29,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for eight consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for five consecutive years, placing Signify in the top one percent of companies assessed. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

Market fluctuations are part and parcel of the investment journey. Yet, many investors find it difficult to deal with them and react impulsively when markets shift. Whether they’re investing in stocks, mutual funds or any other investment avenue, downturns and volatility make investors jittery and lead to decisions that may not be favourable for their long-term goals.

The role investor behaviour plays in finance

This article will explain the reasons why investors panic when markets fall, why it is useful to look at behavioural patterns and psychological triggers, and how one may stay more balanced in such situations.

The role of emotions in investment decisions

Investing is believed to be about logic, but emotions may often play a role in financial decision-making. This interplay between emotions and money is at the heart of behavioural finance, a field of study that combines psychology and economics to explain how people make financial decisions. Instead of assuming investors are always rational, it looks at how emotions, biases, and social influences may affect choices about saving, spending, and investing.

Fear and anxiety are two of the most powerful emotions that may influence an investor’s decision-making when markets shift. In the context of a mutual fund scheme, these emotions may lead to premature withdrawals even when the investment was meant for the long term.

This is partly because losses feel more intense than gains of the same size, a tendency known as loss aversion. For example, losing Rs. 10,000 feels far more painful than the happiness experienced from gaining Rs. 10,000. This imbalance may push investors to act in haste, especially during a market downturn.

Herd behaviour and social influence

Another reason why investors may panic is herd behaviour. When investors see others exiting a mutual fund scheme or selling their holdings during market lows, they may feel the need to do the same. Following the crowd may be seen as a more suitable option for many investors instead of standing apart, even if long-term fundamentals remain unchanged.

Such herd behaviour may result in missed opportunities for potential growth if the market recovers.

Short-term focus versus long-term goals

Many investors begin investing in a mutual fund scheme with a long-term goal in mind, such as retirement planning or funding a child’s education. However, when markets turn volatile, the focus shifts from long-term goals to short-term movements. This may lead to impulsive decisions, such as redeeming units prematurely.

While market volatility may be temporary, impulsive decisions may lock in losses. When investors keep long-term objectives in mind and avoid frequent reactions, they may maintain their investment discipline.

The impact of past experiences

Sometimes, personal experiences may also shape investor behaviour. If an investor has experienced a previous downturn and faced losses, they may panic more quickly in future market declines. Similarly, if someone has seen markets recover after a downturn, they may be more comfortable about staying invested.

It is important to remember that decisions should be based on suitability, financial planning, and current circumstances rather than only on past experiences.

Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

The role of information and news flow

Investors are often influenced by constant news updates, market headlines, and commentary from peers or social media. Negative news may magnify fear, making it harder to stay patient. For instance, during a sudden market fall, headlines may focus on short-term losses without providing a balanced view of potential long-term prospects.

Filtering information and focusing on reliable sources may help investors avoid unnecessary panic. Instead of reacting to every headline, it may be useful to stay focused on your long-term goals.

Behavioural biases in investing

Several behavioural biases contribute to panic during market falls:

• Loss aversion: As discussed, losses feel more severe than gains of equal size.

• Recency bias: Investors tend to give more weight to recent events. A sudden fall may overshadow years of steady growth in a mutual fund scheme.

• Overconfidence bias: Believing one may time the market or predict exact outcomes often leads to disappointment when events do not go as expected.

Understanding these biases may help investors make more measured decisions instead of reacting purely on impulse.

Strategies to stay calm during market falls

While no strategy may remove uncertainty, certain practices may help investors manage their reactions:

• Review goals periodically: Ensuring that investments in a mutual fund scheme align with long-term goals may provide confidence during volatility.

• Diversification: Spreading investments across asset classes may potentially reduce the impact of market swings.

• Systematic approach: Approaches like Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) may help average out costs over time, though investors should assess if these are suitable for their financial needs.

• Consulting advisors: Professional advice may provide perspective and help investors avoid impulsive decisions.

These strategies may not eliminate risk, but they may provide structure and reduce emotional reactions during downturns.

The InQuBe philosophy of investing

Bajaj Finserv AMC’s InQuBe philosophy represents a disciplined framework for pursuing investment opportunities. Built on three pillars, gaining an information edge, applying analytical tools, and leveraging behavioural insights, it aims to guide investment decisions by focusing on companies with solid fundamentals and potential long-term value. By navigating market inefficiencies through this structured approach, Bajaj Finserv AMC seeks to help investors maintain a consistent, long-term perspective.

Conclusion

Markets will always move through cycles of ups and downs. The challenge for investors is not only in choosing a suitable mutual fund scheme but also in managing their own reactions when markets fall. Panic is a natural response, but understanding behavioural patterns, being aware of biases, and staying focused on long-term goals may help investors make more balanced decisions. By approaching investments with patience and discipline, investors may be able to navigate market volatility more calmly.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. 

India’s consumption patterns have been evolving, shaped by factors such as income growth, urbanisation, and changing lifestyles. The expanding middle class is often viewed as an important part of this trend, influencing demand across a wide range of goods and services. For investors, recognising this development within the broader context of structural changes may provide perspective on potential long-term themes.

Digital Transformation: Megatrends reshaping India’s consumption story

Source: Rising to a Billion: How India’s Middle Class is Shaping Tomorrow by Rediffusion Consumer Lab

Understanding megatrend investing
Megatrends are large, structural shifts that reshape economies and societies over decades. These include demographic change, urbanisation, technological progress, sustainability, and rising consumption.

Megatrend investing involves identifying such shifts and considering how they may align their portfolios with the long-term opportunities that megatrends offer.

One such megatrend shaping India is the expansion of its middle class.

The rise of India’s middle class
Changing lifestyles, increasing urbanisation, and broader access to credit are gradually diversifying household spending patterns. While essentials like food and clothing continue to form a significant part of budgets, discretionary categories such as branded products, entertainment, travel, and digital services are gaining more attention.

This shift is reflected in the expansion of industries catering to lifestyle and convenience, including automobiles, packaged food, retail, healthcare, and financial services. These sectors may benefit from evolving consumer behaviour, though outcomes remain influenced by income growth, economic conditions, and market cycles.

How rising consumption shapes investment themes
As consumer spending expands, companies operating in consumption-driven sectors may experience long-term demand. Thematic funds such as consumption funds invest in businesses that could potentially benefit from India’s consumption story. These funds typically include stocks of companies from fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), retail, entertainment, e-commerce, food and beverages, and other related sectors.

Since these funds focus on specific sectors, their performance may be more volatile compared to diversified funds. When consumer demand slows, consumption-oriented stocks may be affected. Therefore, investors need to evaluate such options in the context of their risk appetite and overall portfolio balance.

Past performance may or may not be sustained in future.

Broader impact across sectors
India’s consumption story is not only influencing consumer goods but also shaping demand across multiple sectors, such as housing, education, healthcare, and financial services. For example:

• Housing and infrastructure: Growing aspirations for home ownership may support the real estate sector.

• Education: Parents may allocate more towards quality education, coaching, and digital learning tools.

• Healthcare: Rising awareness is driving demand for preventive healthcare, insurance, and wellness services.

• Financial services: Households may allocate more towards insurance, savings products, and investments, including mutual funds.

These trends suggest that companies serving the middle-class segment may see long-term opportunities, though outcomes may vary with economic cycles.

How to invest in this megatrend
For investors looking at potentially tapping into India’s consumption wave, thematic or sectoral mutual funds focusing on the consumption sector may be one of the suitable ways. However, such funds carry very higher risks, because they are concentrated on one or a handful of sectors. Thus, investors may also consider diversifying their portfolio with other mutual funds that may offer broader exposure, such as large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap funds etc.

The diversified funds may serve as the core of the portfolio, while the thematic fund may act as an additional allocation aligned with long-term megatrends.

Considering risk factors
Investing in consumption funds or any thematic category requires awareness of certain risks:

• Concentration risk: Since consumption funds focus on limited sectors, they may face higher volatility compared to diversified funds.

• Cyclicality: Consumer demand may be cyclical, rising during strong economic periods and slowing during downturns.

• Fund management approach: Performance may vary depending on how the fund manager selects and allocates among consumption-driven companies.

• Investment horizon: Thematic funds are often more suitable for investors with a longer horizon who may stay invested through short-term fluctuations.

Keeping these points in mind, investors may evaluate whether thematic options align with their portfolio strategy and goals.

Using tools for planning
Before committing to investments, planning tools may help. For example, an SIP calculator allows investors to estimate the potential accumulation of wealth over time based on inputs like contribution amount, tenure, and expected rate of return (assumed, not guaranteed).

Similarly, a compound interest calculator may help investors understand how reinvested returns contribute to long-term growth. These illustrations may support informed decision-making and highlight how disciplined investing may align with financial goals. However, it is important to note that these calculators are an aid, not a prediction tool. They may provide only an indicative picture.

How megatrends shape investing
By closely following megatrends and the industries or companies that stand to benefit as they evolve, Bajaj Finserv AMC seeks to build future-focused portfolios for its investors and create investment opportunities that look away from short-time noise and towards trends that can offer potential opportunities for long-term growth.

Conclusion
India’s consumption story reflects a broader megatrend that is reshaping industries and investment themes. For investors, consumption funds may provide a way to gain exposure to this trend, while SIP may serve as a disciplined method to participate over time.

The suitable strategy ultimately depends on each investor’s risk appetite, financial goals, and time horizon. Using tools such as an SIP calculator or a compound interest calculator may help visualise potential outcomes and support informed decisions.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

VinFast Auto India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Castrol India Limited, a premium lubricant manufacturer, to provide reliable and accessible after-sales support for its EV customers across the country. This reinforces VinFast’s long-term commitment to building a trusted service ecosystem for its EV owners in India.

Castrol’s extensive footprint will enable VinFast to offer broad and convenient after-sales care for further strengthening customer confidence

As part of the MoU, Castrol India will make selected Castrol Auto Service (CAS) workshops from its 750+ CAS network in 300+ cities available to VinFast customers. These outlets will feature dedicated VinFast-branded service bays, certified EV technicians, and genuine VinFast parts.

VinFast will provide service manuals, diagnostic tools, training, and warranty coverage processes, while Castrol will ensure workshops meet infrastructure and capability standards. This collaboration will give VinFast customers access to Castrol’s well-established expertise, advanced service protocols, and digitally integrated workshop ecosystem. These capabilities guarantee consistent quality, transparency, and convenience at every service touchpoint.

Castrol’s extensive footprint will enable VinFast to offer broad and convenient after-sales care for further strengthening customer confidence.

Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, “For VinFast, India represents not just a new market but a long-term commitment to building an inclusive EV ecosystem. Reliable after- sales care is central to this vision, and our collaboration with Castrol India along with other partners ensures that customers will have access to trusted, high-quality service across the country from the beginning. This initiative also aligns with both companies’ commitment to supporting India’s transition towards sustainable mobility by making EV ownership hassle-free and future- ready.”

Mr. Rajeev Govil, Senior Vice President, India B2B, Castrol India, said, “As electric mobility grows in India, after-sales service will play a critical role in building customer confidence. Through this collaboration, we bring the strength of our Castrol Auto Service network to support VinFast and its EV customers. With our wide reach and experience in servicing conventional passenger vehicles, we are excited to enable our network to deliver comprehensive EV solutions and play a part in shaping a stronger mobility ecosystem in the country.”

VinFast has been reinforcing its commitment to India’s EV landscape through significant investments. The company recently launched its first overseas assembly facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles annually, scalable to 150,000 units- creating thousands of direct jobs. Alongside local production, VinFast has partnered with multiple leading dealer groups to establish a total of 35 dealerships across 27 cities by the end of 2025.

With the recent launch of its premium SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, in India, VinFast is simultaneously building a comprehensive service backbone to ensure customers enjoy the same level of confidence, convenience, and care that defines its vehicles. Together, VinFast and Castrol aim to raise service standards through advanced diagnostics, genuine parts, and digital-first support solutions. This collaboration also underscores their shared commitment to supporting India’s transition to sustainable mobility and providing customers with long-term reliability.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

About Castrol India Limited
Castrol India Limited, part of the bp group, is a leading lubricant company with a 115-year presence in India. Known for its innovation and high-performance products, Castrol offers trusted brands like Castrol CRB, Castrol GTX, Castrol Activ, Castrol MAGNATEC, Castrol EDGE, and Castrol POWER1. Serving various sectors including automotive, mining, machinery, and wind energy, Castrol India operates three blending plants and a wide distribution network, reaching over 150,000 retail outlets nationwide. Globally, Castrol has been driving technological advancements for 125 years.

For more information, please visit www.castrol.co.in

Adarsh Kumar, an 18-year-old innovator from Bihar, India, who grew up in poverty and travelled alone to Kota, Rajasthan, aged 14 and with just 1,000 Rupees in search of a better education, has been named the winner of the Chegg.org Global Student Prize 2025. This $100,000 award is given annually to one exceptional student who has made a real impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society beyond. He was selected from almost 11,000 nominations and applications from 148 countries around the world. Adarsh, a student at Jayshree Periwal International School, accepted the award in London, UK.

Nathan Schultz, CEO of Chegg, Awards Adarsh Kumar the Chegg.org Global Student Prize in London

Chegg.org partnered with the Varkey Foundation to launch the annual Chegg.org Global Student Prize in 2021. It is a sister award to the Varkey Foundation’s $1 million Global Teacher Prize and newly launched $1 million Global Schools Prize. The intention was to create a powerful new platform to shine a spotlight on extraordinary students who are reshaping communities and the world through innovation, leadership, and service. The prize is open to all students who are at least 16-years-old and enrolled in an academic institution or training and skills programme. Part-time students as well as students enrolled in online courses are also eligible for the prize.

Born in Champaran, Bihar, Adarsh Kumar was raised by a single mother who cleaned homes to fund his education. When she spent her life savings on a laptop, it became his gateway to possibility. Through YouTube and Google, he taught himself coding, start-up skills, and entrepreneurship.

At just 13, he launched the non-profit Mission Badlao with his sister-in-law, mobilising his community and achieving real change, including securing land for a new government school, facilitating 2,000+ COVID vaccinations, distributing menstrual health products, and planting 3,000 trees.

Determined to break barriers, at just 14 and with only 1,000 Rupees, he headed alone to Kota, hundreds of miles away, in pursuit of coaching for the Indian Institute of Technology Joint Entrance Examination.

Unable to afford the coaching, he camped out in libraries, using free Wi-Fi to cold-email mentors, land internships, and shadow start-up founders. These experiences became the foundation of Skillzo, a transformative platform launched in 2023, equipping underserved high school students with mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and real-world opportunities. By designing tailored courses and sourcing industry experts aligned with students’ ambitions, he built more than just a programme – he built a launchpad for futures. In just over two years, Skillzo has already empowered over 20,000 students, many of whom have gone on to earn scholarships, launch ventures, and win national awards.

At its core, Skillzo is about giving young people the tools, confidence, and connections they need to shape their own destinies.

Adarsh independently sat for his Grade 10 board exams which allowed him to win a full scholarship to Jayshree Periwal International School in Rajasthan, one India’s best IB schools, worth 30 lakh Rupees.

Here, he helped three other students secure the same life-changing support. As CMO of Bihar Chhatra Sansad, the state’s largest student-led policy forum, he has engaged 1,500+ youth in governance and raised $36,000 for student initiatives.

Internationally, he was named the youngest Google Youth Advisor, joining 52 global leaders shaping technology policy.

With the $100,000 prize money, Adarsh plans to launch SkillzoX, an AI-powered mentorship platform for rural learners, and the Ignite Fellowship, a global accelerator for student changemakers.

Nathan Schultz, Chief Executive Officer and President of Chegg, Inc. said, “At Chegg, we celebrate the ideas, passion, and courage of students who are shaping a better future for us all. Adarsh’s story is more than a personal triumph – it is a powerful symbol of the courage and grit of young changemakers everywhere, whose voices deserve to be heard and whose stories can inspire the world. Their stories remind us of the extraordinary impact students can have when they are given the support and platform to act on their vision.”

Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Varkey Foundation said, “Congratulations, Adarsh. Your journey is a powerful reminder that education is the greatest gift we can give – it opens doors, creates opportunity, and transforms lives. Through your determination and vision, you have shown how education can turn even the greatest challenges into a pathway to a brighter future. Most importantly, you have taken what you have learned and used it to make a lasting impact on the lives of many other young people.”

Applications and nominations for this year’s Global Student Prize opened on Wednesday 19 February and closed on Sunday 27 April 2025. Students were assessed on their academic achievement, impact on their peers, how they make a difference in their communities and beyond, overcome odds to achieve, demonstrate creativity and innovation, and operate as global citizens.

Last year’s winner was 18-year-old ngela Elena Olazarn Laureano, who helped create Ixtlilton, an AI-powered virtual medical assistant that can diagnose 21 diseases based on a series of questions. Designed with local medics during COVID-19, Ixtlilton helps people living in remote areas or far from medical centers determine if they need medical care.

If students were nominated, the person nominating them was asked to write a brief description online explaining why. The student being nominated was then sent an email inviting them to apply for the prize. Applicants were able to apply in English, Mandarin, Arabic, French, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian. To join the conversation online follow @cheggdotorg