The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has been a game-changer in India’s taxation system since its rollout in 2017. After almost two decades of deliberation and planning, the country adopted a unified tax structure aimed at simplifying the complex web of state and central taxes. 

Shiv Bidani Co-founder- National Finance Olympiad

But the journey of GST has been anything but smooth. With its ups and downs over the past eight years, the Indian government is now implementing Next-Gen GST Reforms in 2025. These reforms are designed to simplify the tax system further and make life more affordable for the common man. But will the benefits really reach you, or will this just be another step in the government’s long-term economic strategy? Let us break it down. 

1. Simplified Tax System: What’s Changed?
One of the biggest changes with the 2025 GST reforms is the shift to a simplified two-slab tax system: 5% and 18%. Previously, the system had multiple slabs ranging from 0% to 28%. This reduction in the number of tax slabs aims to make the taxation process easier for businesses and consumers alike.

This also means that the everyday items we can’t live without, like soap, toothpaste, and packaged foods, well, the good news is that their GST has been slashed to either 5% or even 0%. That means, in simple terms, these essentials could cost you less, which makes a real difference when you are managing your household budget.

When it comes to medicines and medical devices, the GST has been brought down from 12% to 5% or Nil. For anyone who relies on regular medication, this is huge. It makes life-saving drugs and healthcare products much more affordable and accessible, especially for those who need them most.

2. Will the Price Reductions Actually Reach You?
Although the GST reforms promise to bring down prices, there’s still a big question: Will we actually see those savings at the checkout?

Here’s the thing — businesses are the ones in the middle. The government can lower taxes, but it’s really up to the businesses whether they’ll pass on those savings to you or keep them for themselves. In the past, we’ve seen some price cuts trickle down, but not always. So, while the tax cuts are there, whether you feel them in your wallet depends on how quickly and fully businesses adjust their prices.

This isn’t just limited to a few sectors. Whether you’re shopping for a car, a phone, or even your groceries, the experience can be a bit hit or miss. For example, when the GST on cars and two-wheelers was reduced from 28% to 18%, we were all expecting lower prices. But many car manufacturers didn’t immediately lower their prices, and some didn’t pass on the full benefit to customers. As a result, consumers didn’t feel that reduction in their pockets right away.

A LocalCircles study found something similar with essential food items. Even though GST cuts were implemented, many consumers reported not noticing a difference in prices at the store. Why? Because sometimes, manufacturers or retailers choose to keep prices steady or adjust them slowly, which delays the savings reaching the customer.

Key Insight: While the GST reforms are a step in the right direction, the real benefit will depend on how businesses adapt and whether they pass the reductions on to customers quickly and uniformly.

3. Impact on Local Businesses and Employment
Beyond just affecting prices for consumers, the GST reforms also aim to give a boost to small businesses (MSMEs). By making tax filing simpler and cutting down on compliance costs, these changes are especially helpful for sectors like handicrafts, small manufacturing, and agriculture. Lower GST rates on raw materials mean these businesses can cut their costs, too.

With reduced GST on things like cement, iron, and farming equipment, local businesses can lower their operational costs. As a result, they become more competitive and can offer lower prices on goods and services. So, you could see your everyday purchases becoming more affordable.

When businesses save on costs, they can ramp up production, which boosts demand. And as demand increases, it could lead to more job opportunities especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where small businesses are the backbone of the economy. 

Take the reduction of GST on tractors and irrigation tools from 12% to 5% which is expected to lower farming costs. This could result in cheaper farm produce, thus benefiting consumers while also making farming more sustainable.

4. Long-Term Benefits: Economic Growth and Household Savings
The government’s goal with these reforms is not just to lower immediate costs, but to also stimulate long-term growth. The logic behind reducing taxes on essential goods is that by making life more affordable, families will have more disposable income, which they can either save or spend on other goods and services. This increased demand can stimulate economic growth.

According to the Ministry of Finance, GST collections have hit record highs, showing steady growth. This reflects not just stronger compliance but also an uptick in economic activity. As more businesses come under the formal GST system, the tax base expands, which means more funds are available to support public services and welfare initiatives.

While the GST reforms of 2025 have the potential to significantly benefit the common man, especially through price reductions on essentials, the true success will depend on how businesses, consumers, and government agencies adapt. The common man must stay informed, not just about GST rates but also about how these changes affect the prices of goods and services in their daily life.

To truly understand and take advantage of these reforms, financial literacy is key. With better knowledge of taxes, savings, and how these reforms will impact various sectors, consumers can make informed decisions, thus ensuring that the full benefits of GST reach their pockets. The reforms are a step forward, but only through awareness can the common man fully realize their potential.

• Ascendion Named Global Leader: ISG ranks Ascendion among the world’s best in Generative AI strategy and delivery.

• Turning Vision Into Velocity: AAVA™, the Agentic AI platform, transforms strategy into measurable enterprise impact.

• Humans + Agents, Working Better Together: Ascendion’s agentic model boosts speed, quality, and trust across engineering.

• Rising Star to Market Leader: Consecutive ISG honors underscore Ascendion’s rapid ascent in AI-powered software engineering.

Ascendion, a leader in AI-powered software engineering, has been recognized by ISG for redefining how enterprises deliver on the promise of AI — translating strategy into tangible business outcomes. Today, the company announces its recognition as a Global Leader for the second consecutive year in the ISG Provider Lens® Generative AI Services 2025 study. Ascendion earned top tier leadership positions in two categories: Strategy & Consulting Services and Development & Deployment Services. These results reaffirm the company’s position at the forefront of operationalizing Generative AI for enterprises. Access the full ISG report here.

Ascendion Recognized as a Global Leader in the ISG Provider Lens® for Generative AI Services 2025

As organizations struggle to move beyond experimentation, Ascendion’s Agentic AI platform, AAVA™, collapses the distance between strategy and execution, turning intent into engineered outcomes. By embedding autonomous agents and automation into live delivery pipelines, the company helps close the gap between vision and impact. Real-world results include up to 60% effort savings in data analysis for Fortune 50 banks, 50% productivity gains in automated form processing, and 40% faster time-to-market in complex software programs, all delivered through a human-in-the-loop model that ensures quality and trust.

“Ascendion operationalizes GenAI through a platform-centric model that integrates agentic workflows, modular delivery, and embedded consulting. Its structured approach enables scalable transformation across engineering, strategy, and compliance-driven environments with measurable alignment to enterprise adoption patterns,” said Gowtham Kumar Sampath, Assistant Director and Principal Analyst, ISG.

Unlike advisory only models that stop at the whiteboard, Ascendion’s Agentic design blends automated lifecycle execution with strategic human guidance, ensuring people remain the architects of innovation. This human plus agent model is powered by AAVA™, the company’s platform that improves work along the software development lifecycle with orchestrated agents, and reinforced by METal, Ascendion’s intelligent talent orchestration engine. Together, they modernize enterprise systems faster, scale operations smarter, and sustain full governance across the engineering fabric.

“Our recognition by ISG as a global leader reflects the strength of our vision, platforms, and people,” said Karthik Krishnamurthy, Chief Executive Officer, Ascendion. “We are leading enterprises beyond AI pilots to sustained business value. With our Engineering to the Power of AI platforms and models, we are changing how the industry delivers services and value. Our clients gain innovation velocity, economic advantage, and business impact needed to lead in the agentic era.”

Ascendion continues to perform strongly across ISG assessments, demonstrating consistent momentum across its digital and AI-powered offerings. Last year, the company was recognized as a Rising Star in the 2024 ISG Provider Lens® for Digital Engineering, and earlier this year, Ascendion earned Rising Star positions in two quadrants of the 2025 ISG Provider Lens® for Digital Engineering Services.

Ascendion forges ahead to lead the new era of Engineering to the Power of AI. The company is delivering on its mission to unlock enterprise value by combining intelligent agents, modern engineering methods, and human ingenuity.

About Ascendion 
Ascendion is a leader in AI-powered software engineering, helping businesses innovate faster, smarter, and with greater impact. We partner with Global 2000 clients across North America, APAC, and Europe to solve complex challenges in data, experience design, software product engineering, and workforce transformation. Powered by expert engineers, thousands of AI agents, and our Engineering to the Power of AI™ (Engineering^AI) method, we deliver measurable outcomes that build trust, unlock value, and accelerate growth. Learn more at ascendion.com.

Engineering to the Power of AI™, AAVA™, Engineering^AI, Engineering to Elevate Life™, Data^AI, Experience^AI, Platform Engineering^AI, Product Engineering^AI, Quality Engineering^AI, and GCC^AI are trademarks or service marks of Ascendion®. AAVA™ is pending registration. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

About ISG
ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 800 clients, including more than 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is committed to helping corporations, public sector organizations, and service and technology providers achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm specializes in digital transformation services, including automation, cloud and data analytics; sourcing advisory; managed governance and risk services; network carrier services; strategy and operations design; change management; market intelligence and technology research and analysis. Founded in 2006, and based in Stamford, Conn., ISG employs more than 1,300 digital-ready professionals, operating in more than 20 countries – a global team known for its innovative thinking, market influence, deep industry and technology expertise, and world-class research and analytical capabilities based on the industry’s most comprehensive marketplace data. For more information, visit www.isg-one.com.

In observance of Stroke Awareness Month, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, organized the Apollo Stroke Awareness Programme (ASAP) on October 8, 2025, to promote awareness about stroke prevention, early recognition, and timely management.

Students attend the ‘Apollo Stroke Awareness Programme (ASAP)’ at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals to learn about early stroke recognition and timely care

According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023) and the World Stroke Organization (WSO), stroke is the second leading cause of death globally after ischemic heart disease. In India, it stands as the third leading cause of death, following heart disease and cancer, and remains a major cause of adult disability. The World Stroke Organization observes October 29 as World Stroke Day, while the Indian Stroke Association dedicates October as Stroke Awareness Month to encourage prevention, early treatment, and rehabilitation.

Aligned with the World Stroke Day 2025 theme, “Every Minute Counts”, the Apollo Stroke Awareness Programme (ASAP) emphasized the urgency of recognizing stroke symptoms and acting promptly (#ActFAST). The event witnessed participation from nearly 170 attendees, including school students from The Air Force School (Subroto Park Delhi Cantt), Lal Bahadur Shastri Senior Secondary School (R.K. Puram), and DAV Jasola, along with stroke survivors and caregivers.

Expert-led sessions provided valuable insights into stroke management and recovery.

• Dr. Avinash Goswami, Attending Consultant – Neurology, guided participants on how to “Spot the Stroke,” highlighting the importance of early recognition.

• Dr. Pushpendra Nath Renjen, Senior Consultant – Neurology, discussed early management approaches and key factors influencing recovery.

• Dr. Seema Grover, Chief – Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, spoke on the vital role of post-stroke rehabilitation and introduced the hospital’s advanced Robotic Neuro-Rehabilitation Unit, designed to accelerate motor recovery.

The initiative also underscored the role of youth engagement, empowering school students to become young ambassadors for stroke awareness, spreading vital knowledge about prevention, recognition, and emergency response within their communities.

Dr PN Renjen, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, “Stroke is not just a medical emergency; it’s a race against time. Recognizing the warning signs early and reaching a hospital immediately can mean the difference between recovery and lifelong disability.”

Through such efforts, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals continues its commitment to building a healthier, more informed, and stroke-aware society.

About Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, India’s first JCI accredited hospital, is a joint venture between the Government of Delhi and Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. Commissioned in July 1996, it is the third super-specialty tertiary care hospital set up by the Apollo Hospitals Group. Spread over 15 acres, it houses 57 specialties with more than 300 specialists and more than 700 operational beds, 19 operation theatres, 138 ICU beds, round-the-clock pharmacy, NABL accredited laboratories, 24-hour emergency services and an active air ambulance service. Apollo Hospitals Delhi has the leading programme in kidney and liver transplant in the country. The first successful paediatrics and adult liver transplants in India were performed at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. The hospital is at the forefront of medical technology and expertise. It provides a complete range of latest diagnostic, medical and surgical facilities for the care of its patients. The Hospital has introduced the most sophisticated imaging technology to India with the introduction of 64 slice CT and 3 Tesla MRI, Novalis Tx and the integrated PET Suite. Indraprastha Apollo has also pioneered the concept of preventive health check programmes and has created a satisfied customer base over decades. The Hospital has been consistently ranked amongst the best 10 hospitals in India by The Week survey for the past few years.

Hospital website – www.apollohospdelhi.com                   

Twitter: @HospitalsApollo

Gurugram has long been one of India’s most dynamic real estate markets, driven by fast-paced infrastructure growth, a strong corporate presence, and rising demand for premium housing. Over time, the city has transformed into a modern urban hub that seamlessly blends business, lifestyle, and connectivity.
 

Signature Global’s De-Luxe DXP, a premium project strategically located in Sector 37D along Dwarka Expressway
 

Setting a new standard for premium living in the city, DXP Estate on the Dwarka Expressway is emerging as Gurugram’s newest urban icon. With its prime location, smooth connectivity, and top-notch developments, DXP Estate is quickly becoming the centre of luxury living in Gurugram, redefining modern urban lifestyles.
 

Driving DXP Estate’s rapid transformation, Signature Global, the market leader in the region, is spearheading significant investments in upscale residential projects and integrated townships. The company’s developments are elevating the area’s infrastructure and firmly establishing it as one of Gurugram’s most sought-after real estate hubs.
 

Drivers of Growth at DXP Estate

Situated at the crossroads of Delhi and Gurugram, DXP Estate has emerged as one of the city’s most sought-after addresses among homebuyers and investors, thanks to its strong connectivity, rapid infrastructural growth, and access to modern lifestyle amenities. This includes the recent inauguration of Urban Extension Road-II (UER II) and the Delhi stretch of the Dwarka Expressway by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, which have significantly improved connectivity between Gurugram and the key areas of Delhi NCR.
 

Additionally, the upcoming Global City, a mixed-use development spanning over 1,000 acres across Sectors 36, 36B, 37, and 37B of Gurugram and encompassing residential, commercial, office, and plotted projects, is in close proximity to DXP Estate. The ongoing work on Gurugram Metro Phase 1 is expected to further improve connectivity within the city, making daily commuting easier. Separately, the proposed heliport in Sector 84 along the Dwarka Expressway is anticipated to provide faster and more convenient regional connectivity, enhancing the overall appeal of the area. Together, these developments are expected to strengthen infrastructure, expand lifestyle offerings, and increase investment potential, reinforcing DXP Estate as a prime destination for modern living.
 

Reflecting the impact of these developments on the local micro-market, property prices in the area have witnessed up to a 2.5-fold increase over the past five years, as per industry reports, highlighting how strong connectivity, modern lifestyle amenities, and a strategic location are driving interest from both investors and homebuyers alike.
 

A Vibrant Space for Modern Lifestyles and Wellness Living

Beyond its rapid growth and strategic location, DXP Estate also stands out for its thoughtfully planned urban design and wellness-focused environment, catering to the evolving needs of modern homeowners. The neighbourhood is home to top schools like Euro International and Suncity, advanced healthcare facilities including Civil and Yashroop Hospitals, premium shopping complexes, and recreational spaces, most within a 30-40-minute reach. This mix of amenities makes DXP Estate an appealing choice for families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
 

Beyond its urban appeal, DXP Estate is steadily emerging as a haven for wellness-focused living. Thoughtful open spaces, calm water bodies, and areas designed for quiet reflection create an environment that encourages mindfulness and harmony. From peaceful meditation zones to zen gardens, and spots to simply unwind, the neighbourhood brings together elements that nurture both physical vitality and mental calm. DXP Estate is evolving into a place where modern living and well-being naturally coexist.
 

Investing in Gurugram’s Next Growth Hub

With significant infrastructure developments, easy access to major business and lifestyle hubs, and a growing mix of premium residential and recreational projects, DXP Estate in Sector 37D along the Dwarka Expressway is becoming one of Gurugram’s most sought-after real estate destinations. Attracting strong interest from investors, it offers modern homes with good potential for long-term value, making it a promising opportunity in a neighbourhood set for steady growth.
 

Signature Global: Steering the Growth of DXP Estate
Signature Global has been a key driver in DXP Estate’s transformation, shaping it into a vibrant residential hub. With a substantial land bank reserved for upcoming premium and upper-mid housing projects, the company continues to fuel the area’s growth. Developments like De-Luxe DXP highlight modern living with high-rise towers, world-class amenities, and strong buyer interest, showcasing the increasing demand for quality homes. Together, these factors showcase DXP Estate as a rising star in Gurugram’s real estate landscape, setting new standards for contemporary urban living.

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Limited, one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in the country, is delighted to announce that it has been conferred with the ‘Best Digital Experience in Finance’ Award at the fourth edition of the Global Fintech Awards held at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025. GFF is the world’s largest fintech festival, jointly organised by the Payments Council of India (PCI), the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and the Fintech Convergence Council (FCC).
 

Team LTF received the award at the Global Fintech Fest 2025
 

LTF has been recognised for its exemplary efforts in redefining customer engagement and setting new benchmarks in digital financial experiences through the PLANET App. The PLANET 3.0 version, introduced in June 2025, is significantly enhancing the customer experience through its intuitive design, advanced features, and seamless servicing. The upgraded version integrates multiple lifestyle and utility services such as BikeDekho, DeHaat, MagicBricks, ClearTax, and CIBIL Score check, making it a comprehensive one-stop platform for customers’ financial and value-added needs.

Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO at LTF, said, “The recognition at a global platform like GFF for our PLANET App is a powerful testament to our focus on innovation, technology, and customer-first approach. The App reflects the core of L&T Finance’s vision to offer digital finance delivery as a customer value proposition. We are dedicated to building a robust tech infrastructure that is designed to effectively manage the variety, volume, velocity, and veracity of data, further enabling our vision.”

The award was shortlisted after a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process by GFF’s expert jury, assessing parameters such as user experience, innovation, scalability, customer satisfaction, and business impact. The Company’s PLANET App stood out for its human-centric design, robust technology stack, and ability to deliver personalised digital journeys to millions of customers across urban and rural India.

Launched in 2022, the PLANET App has rapidly become one of India’s most trusted and widely used financial platforms, with over 2 Crore downloads, a ~4.5-star rating, and servicing 87% of LTF’s customers.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com) formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., (LTFH) 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. S&P Global Ratings has recently 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 creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap – Lakshya 2026. The Company has over 2.6 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.
 

X: x.com/LnTFinance

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LnTFS

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/lntfinance

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lntfinance

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ltfinance

As India sees great numbers of households switching to electric cars, VinFast is stepping in to help first-time EV owners adapt to new routines in driving, charging, and maintenance.

VinFast equips its VF 6 and VF 7 with LFP battery cells, known for thermal stability, and a battery management system that balances charging and discharging for longevity

The numbers tell a story of momentum
India registered 115,800 electric four-wheelers in fiscal year 2024-25, about 15 percent more than the year before. That number signals perhaps the largest wave of households shifting from petrol to electric cars so far. The rise is exciting, but buying an EV is only the beginning. Owning one means new habits, from the way people drive to how they plan trips and maintain the vehicle. Automakers like VinFast are responding by building features into their cars that help new drivers adjust with less trial and error.

Drive Smoothly, Save Range
Driving an EV is not simply a matter of pressing the pedal and expecting the same response as a petrol car. Electric motors deliver instant torque, which can tempt drivers to accelerate hard. Yet smooth driving is key to extracting the best range from a charge.

Regenerative braking, which recaptures energy when slowing down, works best when the driver anticipates traffic rather than relying on sudden stops. The lesson is simple: steady inputs save energy.

Most modern EVs come with multiple drive modes. Eco mode lightens steering effort and dials back power to extend range, especially useful in congested city streets. Normal mode balances efficiency and responsiveness for mixed conditions. Sport mode sharpens handling and maximizes power, best reserved for highways or quick overtaking. Many new owners assume Sport is the “default” choice, but frequent use drains the battery faster than expected.

Another habit worth building is pre-conditioning the car. By cooling or heating the cabin while plugged in, owners reduce the energy drawn from the battery once the trip begins. In hot Indian summers, this small step can preserve several kilometers of driving range. 

VinFast has built these functions into the VF 6 and VF 7, pairing them with steering assist and suspension tuned for both urban traffic and longer journeys. The VF 7 also shows that efficiency and performance are not mutually exclusive. Its all-wheel-drive version accelerates from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 5.8 seconds, yet still allows drivers to optimize range with the right settings.

Charge Wisely, Treat the Battery Well
If driving style is the first adjustment, charging habits are the second. Petrol drivers are used to filling a tank from empty. That mindset does not translate well to EVs. Batteries last longer when kept between 20 and 80 percent charge for daily use. Allowing the pack to reach zero is a big “no-no”. Fast charging, meanwhile, is a valuable tool for road trips, but it should not become the default method. Overnight charging at home on a slower connection is gentler and often cheaper.

Public charging also comes with a new form of etiquette. Once the car is topped up, drivers should move it so others can use the station. India’s network of public chargers is expanding, yet access remains uneven. Urban centers are seeing rapid installations, while many highways are still thinly covered. For first-time owners, this means route planning matters. Checking apps before setting out helps avoid range anxiety. 

VinFast equips its VF 6 and VF 7 with LFP battery cells, known for thermal stability, and a battery management system that balances charging and discharging for longevity. Both models come with segment-leading warranties -10 years or 200,000 kilometers for the VF 7, 7 years or 160,000 kilometers for the VF 6, and 10 years or 200,000 kilometers of battery coverage for both-supported by durability testing already proven across more than 100,000 VinFast vehicles worldwide. That level of coverage provides reassurance for those still learning what “good charging habits” look like in practice.

Maintain Regularly, Understand Safety
The third adjustment comes in long-term ownership. EVs need less routine servicing than petrol cars, yet they are not maintenance-free. Tyres wear the same, and brakes still require checks even if regenerative braking reduces use. Cooling systems that regulate battery temperature must be inspected periodically. Another change is the role of software. Updates can now add features or refine safety systems overnight. Drivers should keep cars connected to receive improvements that once would have required a trip to the dealer.

In India’s humid and varied climate, corrosion protection matters. New buyers would do well to look at warranties that extend beyond the basics, since this can translate into fewer surprises over time. 

Safety is another priority. Advanced driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, or automated braking are valuable aids, but they require understanding. Knowing when the system intervenes and when it does not prevent over-reliance. 

VinFast’s VF 6 and VF 7 are designed to meet international benchmark safety standards and have been crash-tested for occupant protection. Structural durability of both vehicles is validated for 240,000 kilometers, while corrosion resistance keeps body panels intact for years.

Building Confidence on the Road
Drive smoother, plan smarter, charge with care, and treat the car as a connected machine that benefits from attention to software as well as hardware. With these practices, and with models like the VF 6 and VF 7 designed to support them, the country’s first-time EV drivers can move from cautious experimentation to everyday confidence.

About VinFast
VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. The company is rapidly expanding its global distribution network and manufacturing capabilities with facilities in Vietnam, India, and planned operations in the United States.

The company’s Thoothukudi facility in Tamil Nadu represents a $500 million investment and will produce 150,000 vehicles annually when fully operational, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in

Renowned for trust and design excellence, DRA Homes, the fast-emerging Indian real estate pride brand from Chennai, today announced the launch of DRA iHEART – Chennai’s first branded sea-view residences in Navalur on OMR. Spanning 3.42 acres with 271 thoughtfully designed homes along the main road, iHEART sets a new standard in living. The project integrates over 650 carefully selected premium-standard products – from foundation materials such as cement, steel and structural fittings to luxury brand finishes and amenities such as chrome fittings, designer tiles, high-end windows, stylish doors and an infinity-edge swimming pool. Together, DRA iHEART delivers an authentic luxury living experience in the INR 1.5 to 2 crore segment, a first-of-its-kind in Chennai.
 

iHEART from DRA Homes brings premium construction and luxury living to Chennai’s OMR corridor in the INR 1.5 to 2 crore price range, featuring 3-4 BHK homes
 

In a pioneering first for the Indian residential real estate sector, DRA Homes has partnered with Slate AI, a global leader in construction intelligence technology. This exclusive collaboration enables real-time monitoring throughout every stage of iHEART’s construction, ensuring quality, transparency and timely project delivery. By harnessing AI-driven analytics and predictive insights, DRA Homes demonstrates its forward-thinking commitment, becoming the first Indian developer to integrate this advanced platform in a residential project.
 

The project features spacious 3 and 4 BHK homes (1,595-2,927 sq. ft.) with select units including dedicated maid rooms. All homes are Vastu-compliant and designed for comfort, elegance and functionality within a Basement + Stilt + 19-floor structure that offers panoramic sea views.
 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, DRA Homes said, “We are excited to launch Chennai’s first branded residences in the luxury segment, combining premium-standard construction with luxury brand finishes. iHEART delivers a distinctive lifestyle experience in the Rs. 1.5 to 2 crore range, fulfilling the luxury living aspirations of to-be affluent families. Partnering with Slate AI ensures we maintain the highest quality standards and timely delivery.”
 

Strategically located on the main road of Navalur, DRA iHEART offers unmatched connectivity to Chennai’s IT hubs, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, vibrant entertainment centres, and the ECR beach just a short drive away. Together, iHEART makes it a perfect choice for combining luxury living, work, lifestyle and leisure in one location. The project underscores DRA Homes’ unwavering commitment to trust, transparency and exceptional quality, ensuring residents make a lasting investment in a home of pride and value.

About DRA
DRA, with an impressive legacy of 40 years, has become a trusted name in the real estate industry, delivering world-class projects across Chennai. With more than 12,000 satisfied customers DRA is synonymous with trust, transparency, and timely delivery. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, DRA goes beyond just building apartments by offering its customers a ‘Home of Pride’ – thoughtfully designed living spaces that cater to evolving lifestyles and embody a sense of accomplishment and belonging. Innovations like the ‘Timeline Meter’ for project updates and the ‘Customer Delight Meter’ reflect their unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, while their online customer portal ensures hassle-free access to project details and documentation. Signature developments such as DRA Pristine Pavilion, Tuxedo, Ascot, Skylantis, Elite, Infinique and many others exemplify their commitment to blending modernity with value-driven investments. Recognized with awards like FICCI’s REISA and Times Business Awards, DRA holds the distinction of being Chennai’s first developer with CRISIL’s 7-star grading. Their social responsibility initiatives include pond restoration and nurturing young sporting talent, which highlight their dedication to the community. Upholding their motto “Timeless Home, Timely Delivery, DRA continues to inspire pride and trust in every home they create, turning dreams into lasting legacies.

Galgotias University, under its flagship Galgotias Dialogue Series, proudly welcomed Shri Ajai Chowdhry, Co-Founder of HCL and Chairman, National Quantum Mission, for an insightful session on the theme “Conversations Creating Change.” The interaction served as an enriching platform for students, faculty, and researchers to gain perspectives from one of India’s foremost technology leaders, reinforcing the university’s commitment to fostering innovation-driven learning.

Galgotias University hosts Ajai Chowdhry, HCL Co-Founder & National Quantum Mission Chair, for an inspiring Dialogue Series session on innovation and leadership

YouTube Link of the session: youtu.be/d539sBvt-oI?si=j4yWeM08nTgVjGiC

The highlight of the event was the Book Discussion Session centred around Shri Chowdhry’s acclaimed work, ‘Just Aspire’. The discussion aimed to inspire students to embrace innovation-led entrepreneurship, visionary thinking, and leadership with purpose, reflecting the core values of Galgotias University’s educational philosophy.

During the visit, Shri Chowdhry toured the university’s state-of-the-art Centres of Excellence, including the Drone Innovation Lab and the Semiconductor Research Lab, where he commended the implementation of the G-SCALE model. He recognised it as a progressive academic framework that effectively integrates global exposure, skill development, competency-based learning, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Speaking about the university’s vision, Shri Ajai Chowdhary said, “It’s inspiring to see this kind of innovation ecosystem that Galgotias University is building. The focus on practical learning, research, and entrepreneurship here reflects a future-ready academic framework that seamlessly integrates Global exposure, Skill development, Competency-based learning, Application-oriented teaching, Leadership building, and Entrepreneurship.”

Commending Shri Ajai Chowdhry’s pioneering contributions to India’s technology sector, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “We are deeply honoured to host Shri Ajai Chowdhry, whose journey embodies India’s innovation story. His insights on entrepreneurship and the future of technology truly resonated with our students. At Galgotias, we are committed to nurturing innovators and leaders who can drive change and shape the global knowledge economy.”

The Galgotias Dialogue Series is a flagship initiative that promotes intellectual exchange, innovation, and leadership, inspiring students to think boldly and lead with purpose as catalysts of change in a rapidly evolving world.

About Galgotias University 

Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings. Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities—public and private combined—this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This significant achievement reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic arena and validates its consistent progress in global higher education benchmarks.

These recognitions reflect Galgotias University’s strategic focus on teaching quality, research impact, internationalization, and industry relevance, and its mission to shape globally competent graduates prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Signature Global (India) Ltd., one of India’s leading real estate developers, further expanded its international outreach with an exclusive showcase event held on October 18, 2025, at Hyatt Place, Garden City, New York, USA. The event, led by Ms. Bharti Aggarwal, Director of Signature Global Group, brought together a distinguished group of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) customers and investors, reflecting the brand’s commitment to creating modern, premium homes with global appeal. The showcase was part of the company’s ongoing NRI engagement initiative, aimed at strengthening relationships with international customers and understanding the aspirations of overseas homebuyers.

Ms. Bharti Aggarwal, Director of Signature Global Group at the Investor Engagement Program in New York, USA

With growing interest from NRIs in Indian real estate, these initiatives are designed to understand their preferences, address the challenges they encounter while investing in India, and explore innovative ways to cater to their needs more effectively.

Building on this engagement, the showcase offered NRI homebuyers an informative overview of Signature Global’s key projects in Gurugram, highlighting the brand’s innovative designs, sustainable construction practices, and emphasis on delivering premium living experiences. During the event, guests had the opportunity to interact with senior leadership, gaining a better understanding of upcoming projects and the company’s vision for modern urban living. The event also highlighted Signature Global’s dedication to supporting overseas investors, including plans to set up a dedicated NRI support team to provide personalized guidance and a smooth, hassle-free property investment experience.

Speaking about the event, Ms. Bharti Aggarwal, Director, Signature Global Group, said, “Connecting with our NRI customers in New York and sharing our vision of modern living was a truly delightful experience. Events like this give us the opportunity to connect directly with our overseas investors, understand their preferences, and gain valuable insights into their evolving needs and aspirations. At Signature Global, we are committed to creating homes that combine contemporary design, sustainable practices, and world-class living experiences. By engaging with our NRI customers and incorporating their feedback, we can ensure that our projects not only meet but exceed their requirements, reinforcing our commitment to quality, transparency, and innovation in every development.”

The event showcased Signature Global’s flagship projects, including Cloverdale SPR, De-Luxe DXP, and Titanium SPR, which have attracted significant interest from discerning homebuyers looking for a combination of luxury, lifestyle, and lasting value. Through engaging sessions, attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the unique features and design concepts of these developments, gaining a clear sense of the thoughtfulness and attention to detail that define Signature Global’s approach to modern residential living.

Through such initiatives, the company engages closely with NRI investors, showcasing its commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and quality. By understanding international buyers’ needs, it aims to deliver residential projects that exceed expectations while reinforcing its reputation as a trusted, forward-looking real estate developer in India.

• Retail Book crosses the Rs. 1 lakh Crore milestone

• Robust retail franchise with a retail portfolio of Rs. 1,04,607 Crore, reflecting a 18% growth YoY 

• Highest ever Retail disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 at Rs. 18,883 Crore, up 25% YoY 

• Q2FY26 witnessed an upgrade of the international issuer long-term credit ratings of LTF to “BBB/Stable” from “BBB-/Positive” by S&P Global Ratings, roll-out of the ‘beta’ version of ‘Project Nostradamus’ and launch of a big-tech partnership with Google Pay
   

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded the highest ever Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 735 Crore, up 5% Quarter-on-Quarter (QoQ) and 6% Year-on-Year (YoY) for the second quarter ended September 30, 2025 (Q2FY26). During the quarter, the retail book size reached Rs. 1,04,607 Crore, up 18% YoY. The Company has recorded quarterly retail disbursement of Rs. 18,883 Crore for the second quarter ended September 30, 2025, up 25% YoY. Retailisation stands at 98% for the quarter ended September 30, 2025.
 

LTF’s Retail Book crosses the Rs. 1 lakh Crore milestone, now at Rs. 1,04,607 Crore, reflecting a 18% growth YoY
 

The Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, crossed more than 2 Crore downloads as on September 30, 2025 comprising more than 17.6 Lakh downloads on the rural side. As of date, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 6,400 Crore while servicing over 934 Lakh requests and has sourced loans of over Rs. 19,300 Crore. PLANET App was also awarded the app with the ‘Best Digital Experience in Finance’ at the Global Fintech Fest, 2025.

‘Project Cyclops’ has been implemented in Two-wheeler Finance, Farm Equipment Finance, and SME Finance. It will be rolled out in Personal Loans in Q3FY26, Home Loans, and Rural Group Loans & MFI in FY27. The beta version of the AI driven real time automated portfolio monitoring engine ‘Project Nostradamus’ has been rolled out for the Two-wheeler business in August, 2025, a month ahead of the scheduled deployment date.

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded LTF’s 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. These long-term ratings are investment grade and are at par with India’s Sovereign Credit Rating. This will enable the Company to tap global capital markets and further diversify its liability franchise and deepen investor base.

Commenting on the financial results, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF said, “During the quarter, our focus remained firmly on execution and growth, enabling us to deliver a strong performance in a quarter traditionally considered a weak one in the BFSI industry. The performance highlights the improved momentum in all our lines of business, across rural and urban geographies, driven by the transformation initiatives carried over the last few quarters. Our investments in technology, talent, revamp and expansion of branch infrastructure, brand building and continued focus on customer centricity as a part of our 5-pillar execution strategy have started to yield early dividends for us.

Our Gold loans segment added to the loan portfolio in the first quarter of this financial year gained significant momentum during this quarter. In line with our aspiration of becoming a leading Pan-India gold finance player in the country, we remain committed to continuously expand our geo-presence across the country through branch expansion. By the end of this financial year, we plan to add around 200 new branches taking our gold distribution strength to around 330 gold loan branches.

In addition, the Company operationalized the beta rollout of ‘Project Nostradamus’, an AI driven automated real-time portfolio management engine in the Two-wheeler business in addition to scaling up the AI driven next-gen digital credit engine ‘Project Cyclops’ in the SME business. Our digital large partnerships continued to scale in the second quarter of this financial year with Google Pay being the latest addition to our list of marquee big tech partners for origination of Personal Loans.

On the back of good monsoons and improving customer consumption sentiment, we are confident that this momentum will accelerate in the second half of this financial year on the back of festive demand fueled by GST 2.0 reforms.”

Key Highlights

Robust Retail Franchise
The Company’s granular and deep pan-India Retail franchise is led by its strong distribution capabilities namely, its geographic presence in around 2 Lakh villages from around 2,213 rural meeting centers/branches and 345 branches across urban centers. This extensive geographic presence is also supported by over 13,500 distribution points built over a decade. The Company also leverages around 2.7 Crore of its customer database to drive a credible cross-sell and up-sell franchise contributing 40% of the Company’s repeat disbursements share in value and 51% in count during Q2FY26.
 

Building a diversified retail franchise

Rural Business Finance

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 6,316 Crore vs. Rs. 5,435 Crore, up 16% YoY. Book size at Rs. 27,460 Crore vs. Rs. 26,539 Crore, up 3% YoY. Growth driven by improved collection efficiency and sectoral trends.
 

Farmer Finance

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,654 Crore vs. Rs. 1,782 Crore, down 7% YoY. Book size at Rs. 15,943 Crore vs. Rs. 14,488 Crore, up 10% YoY.
 

Two-wheeler Finance

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,512 Crore vs. Rs. 2,393 Crore, up 5% YoY. Book size at Rs. 13,013 Crore vs. Rs. 12,669 Crore, up 3% YoY. During the quarter, LTF launched a TV commercial (TVC), ‘Just Zoom Two-wheeler Loans’, featuring its brand ambassador, Jasprit Bumrah. The TVC highlights the key features of LTF’s Two-wheeler Loans – instant approval, maximum loan eligibility, and a competitive EMI. Launch of attractive Two-wheeler Finance schemes for the festive season.
 

Personal Loans

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,918 Crore vs. Rs. 1,361 Crore, up 114% YoY. Book size at Rs. 10,878 Crore vs. Rs. 7,178 Crore, up 52% YoY. Growth in the segment aided by big tech partnerships.
 

Housing Loans and Loans Against Property

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,713 Crore vs. Rs. 2,531 Crore, up 7% YoY. Book size at Rs. 27,407 Crore vs. Rs. 21,731 Crore, up 26% YoY.

SME Finance

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,468 Crore vs. Rs. 1,244 Crore, up 18% YoY. Book size at Rs. 7,465 Crore vs. Rs. 5,190 Crore, up 44% YoY.
 

Gold Loan

Q2FY26 disbursements at Rs. 983 Crore. Book size at Rs. 1,475 Crore.

About L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF)

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF) (www.LTFINANCE.com) formerly known as L&T Finance Holdings Ltd., (LTFH) 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. S&P Global Ratings has recently 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 creating a top-class, digitally enabled, Retail finance company as part of the Lakshya 2026 plan. The goal is to move the emphasis from product focus to customer focus and establish a robust Retail portfolio with quality assets, thus creating a Fintech@Scale while keeping ESG at the core. Fintech@Scale is one of the pillars of the Company’s strategic roadmap – Lakshya 2026. The Company has over 2.7 Crore customer database, which is being leveraged to cross-sell, up-sell, and identify new customers.
 

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