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Science, Standards and Collaboration Drive Discussions at CII India Petcare Summit as India's Pet Care Market Eyes Rs. 11,000 Crore by 2031

India’s pet care market is projected to surpass Rs. 11,000 crore by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8% between 2026 and 2031, according to a new Euromonitor International report, Pet Care in India: Shaping a Resilient and Inclusive Companion Care Landscape, unveiled at the CII India Petcare Summit 2026. Yet the report’s central message is not the scale of the opportunity but what stands between the industry and it: the next phase of growth, it argues, will be won on stronger regulatory foundations, deeper veterinary capacity and closer collaboration across the ecosystem, not demand alone.
 

CII India Petcare Summit 2026
 

That tension framed a day of discussion. Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) under the theme “Reimagining the Future of Companion Care,” the summit convened policymakers, regulators, standards experts, veterinarians and industry leaders to deliberate on building a robust companion animal ecosystem. The conversations centred on strengthening India’s regulatory framework, advancing science-based nutrition, expanding veterinary capacity, promoting responsible pet ownership and fostering innovation — set against a generational shift in which Millennials and Gen Z increasingly treat pets as family and are driving demand for premium, health-focused nutrition.
 

Addressing the inaugural session, Dr. Naveena Kumar, Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, pointed to the rapid evolution of the sector and called for science-based nutrition, stronger regulatory frameworks, sustainable manufacturing, ethical breeding practices and greater investment in research and veterinary infrastructure.
 

Dr. Sujit Kumar Dutta, Joint Commissioner, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India & Secretary, Animal Welfare Board of India, pressed the case for stronger veterinary infrastructure, skilled manpower, expanded domestic manufacturing and robust regulatory standards to underpin responsible, sustainable growth.
 

The inaugural panel, “From Labels to Laws – Building India’s Future-Ready Pet Food Regulatory Ecosystem,” moderated by Manish Syag, Managing Director, Mars Pet Nutrition India, turned to a practical question: how to build a collaborative, science-led regulatory framework that earns consumer trust and improves transparency without slowing the category down.
 

Manish Syag, Managing Director, Mars Pet Nutrition India, said, “India’s pet care industry has tremendous headroom for growth. Today, only 9% of dogs and 27% of cats are fed packaged pet food, even though pet food contributes 86% of the category’s retail value. As more pet parents embrace quality nutrition and access expands across the country, science-based regulation will be a critical enabler of this growth. Clear, globally aligned standards build consumer confidence, support responsible innovation and give manufacturers the certainty to invest in local capabilities. For us, everything begins with the pet at the centre of the home, and by working together across government, standards bodies, veterinarians and industry, we can build a trusted ecosystem that advances responsible pet ownership while positioning India as a global hub for world-class pet nutrition.”
 

Pradeep Sharma, Scientist-C & Deputy Director, Food & Agriculture Department, Bureau of Indian Standards, said, The revision of India’s pet food standard is aimed at aligning it with the latest scientific developments and global best practices while strengthening transparency through improved labelling and quality requirements. Effective implementation of these standards will help build consumer trust, create a level playing field for manufacturers and strengthen India’s position as a globally competitive hub for pet food manufacturing and exports.”
 

Satinder Singh, Managing Director, Royal Canin, added, “A future-ready pet care ecosystem must be built on three pillars, pets first, science and trust. Science-based regulations can improve transparency, encourage innovation and help build consumer confidence while enabling the industry to grow responsibly.”
 

The panel also brought together Pallavi Anand, Business Head, Nestle Purina Petcare, South Asia Region; Satinder Singh, Managing Director, Royal Canin; and Aman Tekriwal, Co-founder, Supertails. A recurring theme was the role of clear, standardised labelling in helping pet parents interpret ingredients, nutritional content, feeding guidelines and evidence-based claims — and, from there, make informed choices. Speakers argued that regulation should encourage innovation while aligning with global scientific standards, backed by stronger consumer education and closer coordination between industry, veterinarians, policymakers and digital platforms.
 

Inside the Euromonitor report

  • The headroom is the story. Only 9% of dogs and 27% of cats in India are currently fed packaged pet food, a gap that widens as e-commerce and quick commerce push beyond the metros.

  • Pet food dominates the basket. It accounts for nearly 86% of India’s pet care retail value, with the market projected to reach Rs. 11,167 crore by 2031.

  • A generational demand shift. Pet ownership is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5%, led by Millennials and Gen Z who view pets as family and are driving demand for premium, health-focused nutrition.

Independence Day Sale Guide: The Best Ai+ Smartphones to Grab This Freedom Sale on Flipkart

As India gears up to celebrate Independence Day, Ai+ Smartphones is set to make it a season of big savings with some of its steepest price drops of the year, LIVE at the Flipkart Freedom Sale starting August 8 to August 15, 12:00 AM. From the value packed Pulse 2 4G to the all-encompassing Nova Series 5G – the line-up which spans Ai+ Smartphones’ signature Fashion-Forward Tech, and camera-first design built for everyday clarity.

 

Ai+ Smartphones Independence Day Sale is now LIVE on Flipkart

 

Here’s a curated pick of Ai+ Smartphones worth adding to your cart this Flipkart Freedom Day Sale:

Nova 2 Neo 5G: The Perfect First 5G Phone
For anyone stepping into the 5G world for the first time, the Nova 2 Neo 5G is the ideal welcome gift. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset and features a 6.745-inch HD+ 120Hz display, a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI camera, and an 8MP front camera for everyday selfies. A 6000mAh battery which supports up to 18W charging keeping it running through long days, while up to 2TB of expandable storage, dual-SIM 5G, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65 dust and water resistance, and a slim 8.5mm profile round out a genuinely practical package. It runs on Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and AI Key support. Starting at INR 12,999*

 

Nova 2 Pro 5G – Performance on a Budget
Built for consumers who want performance first without breaking the bank, the Nova 2 Pro 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset and a 6.9-inch FHD+ 144Hz punch-hole display with up to 800 nits HBM brightness, backed by a multi-layer cooling system for smooth performance during extended use. Its camera setup includes a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 13MP front camera for content creation and video calls. Nova 2 Pro comes with  customisable back-panel lights, a premium 2.5D glass finish, dual stereo speakers and microphones, up to 1TB of expandable storage, and a 6000mAh battery which can support 33W fast charging — all running Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and advanced AI Key customisation. Starting at INR 14,999*

 

Nova 2 Ultra 5G – The Ultimate Freedom Day Upgrade

For those who want the best of everything in one device, the Nova 2 Ultra 5G is this sale’s flagship pick. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset with an octa-core CPU clocked at 2.6GHz and a Mali-G615 MC2 GPU, paired with VC cooling for sustained performance and a stunning 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1800 nits peak brightness. Its 50MP Sony IMX752 primary camera with OIS and 8MP wide-angle lens, powered by Matrix AI Camera processing, captures every moment in sharp detail, while the 13MP front camera makes group selfies and video calls effortless. The IP68-rated build comes with dynamic customisable back-panel lights, customisable action keys, up to 1TB of expandable storage, and a 6000mAh battery with 40W fast charging support. It ships with an 18W charger, a transparent TPU case, and a screen protector in the box. Available in Blue, Green, Purple, Black, and Red. Starting at INR 16,999*
 

Nova 2 5G – Your Everyday, Ride-or-Die Companion

Reliable, dependable, and built for everyday use, the Nova 2 5G features a 50MP camera for natural, sharp images, a 6000mAh battery for all-day power, and full dual-mode 5G support to keep you connected wherever you go. Available in five colours — Purple, Green, Pink, Blue, and Black — it runs on Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard. Starting at INR 11,999*

 

Pulse 2 4G: The Ideal First Smartphone

For first-time smartphone buyers who don’t want to spend heavily, the Pulse 2 4G is the perfect companion. Powered by the Unisoc T7250 chipset and running on Android 16-based on NxtQuantum OS, it’s built to make everyday tasks effortless, backed by a 6000mAh battery. It also features a best-in-segment 50MP AI rear camera for razor-sharp images, an 8MP selfie camera, and a spacious 6.75-inch 120Hz HD+ display for smooth, easy-on-the-eyes viewing. Its Available in Pink, Purple, Green, Blue, and Black, starting at INR 9,499*

 

*All prices are inclusive of INR 1000 bank offers available across all banks

About Ai+ Smartphone

Ai+ Smartphone is a next generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

 

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

 

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies

NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Loan Utsav 2026: Bajaj Finance Personal Loan Now Comes with an Exclusive Reward Bundle for Eligible Customers

Bajaj Finance today announced the launch of Loan Utsav 2026, a limited-period campaign running from 10 July 2026 to 10 September 2026*. During this campaign, eligible customers applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan can enjoy an exclusive reward bundle, along with flexible repayment options, competitive personal loan interest rate offerings, quick approval, and disbursal of funds.

 

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

 

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to help customers manage both planned and unexpected expenses. Whether the requirement is for home renovation, higher education, travel, weddings or medical emergencies, the loan offers a convenient and collateral-free financing solution through a simple online application process.

 

What is new in Loan Utsav 2026?

Loan Utsav 2026 introduces an exclusive reward bundle for eligible customers who apply for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan during the campaign period. Extended until 10 September 2026, the campaign provides eligible customers an opportunity to access flexible financing along with additional lifestyle and entertainment benefits.

 

Customers whose Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is successfully disbursed within the campaign period can avail of the reward bundle, which includes OTT subscriptions, music memberships, dining benefits, and vouchers. The rewards are applicable only on successful loan disbursal during the campaign period and are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

 

The reward bundle includes:

  • Zee 5, Sony Liv & 14 other OTTs – 6 months free membership

  • JioHotstar membership – 3 months

  • Free 3-month Zomato Gold Membership

  • Free 3-month JioSaavn Pro

  • Free 45 Day Gaana membership

  • Free 40+ Vouchers

 

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is a collateral-free financing solution that helps customers manage both planned and urgent expenses. Customers can apply online without pledging any asset as security.

 

The loan offers financing from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, making it suitable for different financial requirements. Borrowers can choose a repayment tenure ranging from 12 months to 108 months, helping them select an EMI that aligns with their financial situation.

 

What is new in the loan offering?

Along with the Loan Utsav reward bundle, the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan now offers a repayment tenure of up to 108 months.

 

The extended tenure provides customers with greater flexibility when planning repayments. Instead of opting for shorter repayment periods, eligible borrowers can spread repayments over a longer duration, which may help reduce monthly EMI obligations.

 

This feature is particularly useful for customers borrowing larger loan amounts or planning significant expenses.

 

Why does the extended tenure matter?

A longer repayment tenure gives borrowers more flexibility in managing their monthly finances.

 

Customers can choose a repayment period between 12 months and 108 months, depending on their eligibility and financial requirements. A longer tenure may result in lower monthly EMIs, making it easier to balance loan repayments with other household expenses.

 

This flexibility supports better financial planning while allowing customers to borrow according to their needs.

 

Who can benefit from the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

A Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is suitable for customers who require funds for various personal financial needs.

 

It can help finance:

  • Wedding expenses

  • Medical emergencies

  • Home improvement projects

  • Higher education

  • Travel plans

Customers looking for flexible repayment options and quick access to funds may find the product suitable for managing both expected and unexpected expenses.

 

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?

The personal loan interest rate for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum, depending on the applicant’s eligibility and credit assessment.

 

The final interest rate may vary based on several factors, including the applicant’s financial profile and applicable lending criteria.

 

Customers are encouraged to review the applicable personal loan interest rate before submitting their application to understand the expected borrowing cost.

 

How does the application process work?

Applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is designed to be simple and convenient.

 

Customers can complete the application online by providing basic personal and financial details and uploading the required documents. After verification and approval, eligible applicants can receive the loan amount within 24 hours*.

 

The process involves minimal documentation and does not require any collateral, making it easier for eligible customers to access funds.

 

Key features of the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers several features designed to support different borrowing needs:

 

  • Loan amount from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh

  • Repayment tenure from 12 months to 108 months

  • Personal loan interest rate ranging from 10% to 30.5% per annum

  • Collateral-free financing

  • Quick approval process

  • Minimal documentation

  • Disbursal within 24 hours* for eligible customers

  • Limited-period Loan Utsav reward bundle for eligible applicants

 

A customer-focused lending approach

Bajaj Finance continues to focus on providing accessible and convenient lending solutions through a simple digital application process, simple eligibility criteria, and flexible repayment options. The addition of the Loan Utsav reward bundle further enhances the value available to eligible customers while supporting their financial goals.

 

Customers interested in a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan can check their eligibility and apply online through the official website or the app.

 

*Terms and conditions apply.

 

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

Galgotias University and Larsen & Toubro – L&T EduTech Launch Industry Integrated Specialisations for the 2026 Intake

Galgotias University and Larsen & Toubro – L&T EduTech have launched nine industry integrated specialisations for students joining engineering, computer science, information technology and BCA programmes in the 2026 intake.

 

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/36428_galgotiya_image_.jpeg

In addition to the Industry Integrated Academic Programmes, L&T EduTech has established India’s 1st Advanced Electric Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University


The programmes follow a co-teaching model. Faculty from Galgotias University and professionals from L&T jointly shape the curriculum and deliver the courses, linking academic subjects to their application in industry.


Each specialisation comprises eight industry-aligned courses worth a total of 24 credits. The engineering specialisations run across eight semesters and the BCA specialisation across six, with students undertaking an L&T-supported industry project every semester.


Ms Febin M. F., Head of L&T EduTech, Larsen & Toubro said, “Industry participation is built into the academic structure of these specialisations. With eight courses and 24 credits distributed across the degree, students engage with L&T professionals through co-teaching, practical projects, technical sessions and site exposure. This gives learners repeated opportunities to apply academic concepts in professional settings.”


Dr Dhruv Galgotia, Chief Executive Officer of Galgotias University said, “Students entering engineering and technology programmes in 2026 will graduate into industries being reshaped by artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electric mobility, digital manufacturing and cyber security. Industry engagement must therefore be part of the curriculum, not an occasional intervention. Our collaboration with L&T EduTech integrates expert teaching, practical projects, industry exposure and professional credentials throughout the student’s degree.”


Nine specialisations across engineering and technology
Civil Engineering students will study Multimodal Transportation Infrastructure with AI/ML, and Mechanical Engineering students will study Digital Manufacturing Using Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Physical Systems. Students from Electronics and from Electronics and Communication Engineering will be offered Semiconductor Design Framework for Industrial ICs.


An Advanced Specialisation in Electric Vehicles will be offered to students from Electrical and Electronics, Mechanical, Mechatronics and Aeronautical Engineering.


Computer Science and Information Technology students can choose from four specialisations: AI Techniques and Machine Learning Algorithms, Applied Data Science with Python, Cyber Security, and Full-Stack Web Development. BCA students will be offered an industry-integrated specialisation in Agile and DevOps.


The specialisations address developments across infrastructure, mobility, manufacturing, electronics and digital operations, and reflect the growing overlap among engineering disciplines: artificial intelligence is now applied in infrastructure and manufacturing, software and electronics are central to electric mobility, and data, cyber security and software development practices support organisations across sectors.


Industry engagement in every semester
Industry engagement extends across the full duration of each programme rather than being confined to a final-year project or internship.


L&T experts will run training sessions and share knowledge drawn from live engineering and technology projects. Students will work on an industry project each semester, applying their learning as they progress. Core engineering students will take part in immersion visits to L&T sites, gaining direct exposure to how engineering, technology, safety, project management and execution come together in working environments.


Computer Science and Information Technology students will gain access to L&T’s SOLVE platform for regular coding practice. All learners will also access the L&T Skill Exchange platform, which opens up internship and final placement opportunities.


Competitions, expert interactions and recognition
L&T will conduct hackathons and quizzes for participating students, who will also compete with peers from institutions across India. Top performers each semester will be recognised through certificates and rewards.


Professionals from Larsen & Toubro Group businesses — including LTIMindtree, L&T Semiconductor Technologies and L&T Construction — will deliver guest lectures, introducing students to technical roles, projects and working environments across the group.


Academic credits and industry credentials
The industry-aligned courses form part of students’ academic curricula and credit requirements. Learners can earn eight to nine industry certifications over the course of their degree, along with globally recognised certificates and digital badges from Larsen & Toubro.


The programmes build domain knowledge alongside the technical, behavioural and functional skills used in professional settings. Through their coursework and projects, students will interpret requirements, collaborate in teams, apply relevant technologies and tools, and present their solutions.


A curriculum developed by industry and academia
The collaboration follows a series of discussions between Galgotias University and L&T EduTech involving university leaders, faculty, academic departments and programme teams.


The curriculum combines the academic strengths of Galgotias University faculty with the industry experience of L&T professionals, bringing university teaching, industry projects, technical training, site exposure and professional credentials into a single academic pathway. Students engage with industry practice from the start of their programmes and continue through successive semesters, building technical capability progressively while seeing how their knowledge is used professionally.

The Habitats Trust Awards Rs. 3.3 Crore to Six Biodiversity Conservation Projects Across India

The Habitats Trust (THT) announced the recipients of the ninth edition of The Habitats Trust Grants, awarding Rs. 3.3 crore to 6 conservation projects working to protect India’s threatened species and critical habitats. The selected projects span diverse ecosystems including Mangroves, Oak forests, grasslands. and demonstrate innovative, community-led and science-driven approaches to conserving the country’s rich biodiversity.

 

India is home to nearly 8% of the world’s recorded biodiversity, making it one of the world’s richest repositories of wildlife and ecosystems. Protecting this natural heritage requires sustained support for conservation efforts across landscapes and species, including many lesser-known flora and fauna that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Through its annual grants programme, THT supports conservation practitioners working at the forefront of these efforts, enabling innovative, science-led and community-driven solutions across the country.

 

This year’s grants have been awarded across three categories, reflecting the diverse conservation challenges and solutions emerging from across the country.

 

2026 Grant Categories and Recipients

THT Conservation Grant

Supports organisations addressing India’s conservation challenges, with a focus on lesser-known species and critical habitats.

  • Arulagam – One Health Approach for Conserving Critically Endangered Vultures and Hyena in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Tamil Nadu

  • Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology – Croak, Coexist, and Conserve: Conservation of Threatened Amphibians in Human-Shaped Landscapes of River Catchments with Community Participation in Western Ghats

 

THT Action Grant

Supports urgent, on-ground conservation projects for lesser-known species and habitats requiring immediate intervention.

  • Devvrat Singh – Evidence-Based, Community-Led Conservation of the Indian Wolf in Bahraich’s Intense Human–Wolf Conflict Landscapes: Strengthening OECM Approaches

  • Nagpur Centre for Peoples Social Forum – Community-Led Grassland Conservation and Fodder Security Around the Two Protected Areas of Vidarbha

 

THT Research Grant

Supports interdisciplinary research that informs evidence-based conservation action.

  • Centre for Ecology, Development and Research (CEDAR) – Remnant and Restorable Ecosystem (RARE) Assessment: Developing a Blueprint for Conservation and Restoration of Himalayan Oak Forests

  • MS Swaminathan Research Foundation – Coastal Habitat Monitoring for Enhanced Resilience, Species Conservation, and Community Well-Being

 

Congratulating this year’s grantees, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust, said, “India’s biodiversity is far beyond its iconic wildlife. It includes thousands of lesser-known species and ecosystems that quietly sustain ecological balance and support millions of lives. Through The Habitats Trust Grants, we are proud to support the conservationists working tirelessly to protect this natural heritage. Their work not only strengthens biodiversity conservation today but also helps secure a healthier and more resilient future for generations to come.”

 

Rushikesh Chavan, Director, The Habitats Trust, said, “The quality and diversity of applications this year reflects the growing momentum of conservation efforts across India. From protecting overlooked species and restoring critical habitats to generating research that informs conservation action, these projects show how local knowledge, scientific expertise and community participation can come together to create meaningful and lasting impact.”

 

This year, The Habitats Trust received 117 applications from all across the country. Following a rigorous five-stage evaluation process, 27 projects were shortlisted for field evaluation, of which 10 finalists presented their proposals before an expert jury.

 

The jury comprised Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson, HCL Group and Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust; Dr. M. K. Ranjitsinh, wildlife expert and architect of India’s Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; Bahar Dutt, wildlife biologist and environmental journalist; and Brian Heath, Founder & CEO, Mara Conservancy, Kenya. Projects were evaluated on their conservation relevance, scientific rigour, feasibility, stakeholder engagement, scalability and long-term impact.

 

Since its inception in 2018, The Habitats Trust Grants has supported 38 conservation projects across 21 States and 5 Union Territories, disbursing more than Rs. 16.2 crore to strengthen grassroots conservation efforts across India. By investing in research, innovation and on-ground action, the programme continues to empower conservation practitioners working to protect the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and build resilient ecosystems for the future.

 

For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org/tht-research-grant.php

 

About The Habitats Trust

Founded in 2018 by Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, and Shikhar Malhotra, CEO and Vice-Chairman of HCL Healthcare, The Habitats Trust (THT) is focused on addressing some of the most pressing developmental challenges arising from biodiversity loss, the climate crisis and global water scarcity. It is committed to undertake pioneering work that goes beyond sustainability and offers regenerative models for a thriving world. THT today works in 32 states and UTs of India with over 120 partners covering an area of over six lakh hectares. Over the last six years THT has made innovations for solving complex multidisciplinary challenges by using cutting-edge technology, ecological restoration, and species and habitats conservation.

 

For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org

Ampcus Cyber Convenes National Leaders at GRC India AI Conclave 2026 to Advance AI Governance, Cybersecurity, and Digital Trust

Ampcus Cyber, a global cybersecurity solutions provider, successfully hosted the GRC India AI Conclave 2026 on 7th August at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, government officials, regulators, cybersecurity leaders, CXOs, technology experts, and industry practitioners to deliberate on the future of AI governance, cyber resilience, governance, risk and compliance (GRC), and digital trust in India. The conclave reinforced the importance of collaborative action in building a secure and AI-driven digital ecosystem as artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and public services.
 

AI, cybersecurity and policy leaders converged at Ampcus Cyber’s GRC India AI Conclave
 

Held under the theme “Empowering a Secure and AI-Driven Digital India,” the day-long summit featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and expert-led conversations on India’s evolving AI governance framework, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, financial-sector resilience, cloud security, AI-enabled compliance, and emerging cyber threats. The discussions highlighted the growing need for governance frameworks that encourage innovation while ensuring security, privacy, and regulatory compliance.
 

The conclave brought together leaders from government, regulatory bodies, financial services, technology, and cybersecurity, with keynote sessions by experts from CERT-In, MeitY, Digi Yatra Foundation, STPI, SEBI, NPCI, Discover Financial Services, Uber, and other leading organisations. Discussions focused on AI governance, cyber resilience, continuous compliance, third-party risk, payment security, digital trust, and data protection in the AI era.
 

Speaking at the conclave, Deep Chanda, CEO at Ampcus Cyber, said, “The conversations at the GRC India AI Conclave reaffirmed that India’s AI future will be shaped not by technology alone, but by collaboration between policymakers, regulators, industry, academia, and cybersecurity experts. The exchange of ideas and practical insights demonstrated a shared commitment to building AI ecosystems that are secure, trustworthy, and innovation-led. As AI becomes increasingly integral to India’s digital economy, forums like these play a vital role in aligning governance, resilience, and responsible adoption. This is only the beginning of a much larger journey to ensure India leads the global AI landscape with confidence, accountability, and trust.”
 

A major highlight of the conclave was the Make in India launch of Ampcus Cyber’s indigenous AI-powered ComplyX portfolio, introducing three next-generation cybersecurity platforms designed to help organizations modernize governance and strengthen cyber resilience. The company unveiled GRACE, an AI-powered Governance, Risk and Compliance platform that streamlines audits, automates compliance, and delivers real-time visibility into enterprise risk; MIRROR, an autonomous continuous penetration testing platform that provides exploit-validated visibility into security vulnerabilities across digital environments; and WIZARD, an AI-driven Third-Party Risk Management platform that enables continuous vendor risk monitoring through intelligent automation.
 

Throughout the conclave, experts highlighted the need for responsible AI adoption, stronger cybersecurity, continuous compliance, and public-private collaboration to build a secure digital future. The GRC India AI Conclave 2026 reaffirmed Ampcus Cyber’s commitment to advancing India’s digital transformation through indigenous innovation, trusted cybersecurity solutions, and collaborative dialogue, while accelerating secure AI adoption, stronger governance, and digital trust.

Quint Digital Limited Q1 FY 2026–27: Building Momentum, Delivering Results

QDL is India’s leading listed digital media-tech company, strategically positioned at the intersection of media, technology, hospitality and AI. In Q1 FY 2026–27, it:

 

  • Successfully repositioned the company as a global Media-Tech and AI-powered platform, expanding beyond digital publishing into high-growth physical retail, commerce, and experiential ventures.

  • Following the successful launch of media vertical of Time Out India, we are advancing toward the launch of India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi (targeted in early Q3 FY2026-2027), marking a significant milestone in our experiential media and hospitality growth strategy.

  • Delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance, led by the Media-Tech business, with revenue surging to Rs. 35 Cr.—a remarkable 336% year-on-year growth over Q1 FY2025–26.

  • Quintype remains the Group’s key growth engine, delivering robust operational and financial performance while reinforcing its leadership in Media-Tech.

 

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights

Revenue from Operations: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 35 Cr. | YoY Growth: 336%
Adjusted Profit Before Tax*: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 4.93 Cr.

 

* Post adjustment of interest cost and non-cash expenses viz. depreciation and stock option charge. This also includes adjustment of one-time pre-operating expenses of Rs. 1.04 Cr in relation to the launch of Time Out Media and Time Out Markets

 

Strong Operational Performance: Delivered an adjusted PBT of Rs. 4.93 Cr in Q1 FY2026–27, with the Company on track to achieve its strongest full-year operating performance to date.

 

Strategic Partnership with Time Out: Quint Digital set to launch India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi, with opening expected before Diwali.

 

Entry into the high-growth, scalable digital media-led commerce vertical is expected to significantly increase operating revenue and create a strong new growth engine for the Company.

 

Strong Media Tech Performance: Quintype’s Media Tech operations delivered robust consolidated revenue of Rs. 33 crore, reflecting the strength and scalability.

 

Strategic Investment in Lee Enterprises

  • Potential for value creation: Increased stake to 14.59% through the acquisition of additional shares @ USD 3.25 per share in Q4 FY 2025-2026. Stake valued at USD 29Mn#

  • QDL recognized a mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 10.58 Cr. on its investment in Lee Enterprises in the current quarter. Overall mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 129 Cr.

  • Strategic Synergy Potential: Lee Enterprises’ ownership of BLOX Digital creates significant strategic synergy opportunities, strengthening QDL’s ability to expand its footprint across the global media technology ecosystem. This partnership enhances QDL’s long-term growth potential through the joint scaling of AI-powered newsroom solutions, enterprise digital publishing platforms, and next-generation media technologies.

 

# Closing price as on June 30, 2026 – USD 8.96 per share

# Mark-to-Market gains represent unrealized gains arising from the shareholding in Lee Enterprises. The reported value is subject to fluctuation based on movements in the underlying share price of Lee Enterprises on the NASDAQ.

 

About Quint Digital Limited

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) (QUINT, BSE 539515) is India’s leading digital and media-tech, AI-focused company. QDL creates innovative ideas in the digital space with cutting-edge technology and engaging formats to propel meaningful change. QDL holds a significant minority stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: “LEE”), a leading American media company that provides trusted local news and advertising services across 72 markets in 25 American states through nearly 350 digital platforms and print publications. QDL’s conglomerate offers various solutions ranging from news to tech innovations, recently strengthened by the acquisition of ListenFirst Media, a premium social media and digital analytics platform headquartered in New York, which enhances QDL’s capabilities in AI- driven audience insights and engagement strategies. Its flagship platform, The Quint, launched in 2015, delivers trusted, innovative journalism, while Quintype’s AI-powered editorial platform enables seamless content creation for over 300 publishers worldwide. QDL’s suite of brands also includes The News Minute, known for independent journalism from Southern India; Youth Ki Awaaz, a citizen media platform that amplifies the voices of India’s youth; and Kisan India, dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Indian agriculture. Quint Digital Limited is listed on the BSE Limited. The equity shares of Quint Digital Limited have been admitted to the permitted to trade category of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

Shrewsbury International School India Completes Its First Year in Bhopal

One year ago today, Shrewsbury International School India admitted its first pupils to a 150-acre campus outside Bhopal – the first fully residential campus that Shrewsbury School UK, founded by Royal Charter in 1552, has established outside Britain, and the first Shrewsbury campus in South Asia. The school marks the close of its founding year having built, largely from first principles, the academic, sporting, artistic and pastoral life that will shape the pupils who come after this year’s cohort. 

 

A Campus Built for Life


A year of building 
The school’s first cohort followed a programme built around the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level curriculum, alongside more than twenty sports – among them India’s first on-campus facilities for indoor rowing, fencing and scuba diving and a full pastoral programme delivered across two boarding houses. Solar power and water-harvesting infrastructure were built into the campus from its earliest planning, and a tree-planting programme across the grounds continues into its second year. 

 

Where Learning Meets Leadership


In June 2026, the school opened the Sidney Centre for the Performing Arts, its purpose-built home for drama and music, marking the occasion with its first Speech Day. Padma Shri-winning film critic and author Bhawana Somaaya joined as Guest of Honour, speaking to pupils on the arts as a discipline of truth-telling and urging them to question their own convictions as rigorously as they would defend them. That same week, the school held its first Callover – the centuries-old Shrewsbury tradition in which every pupil’s name is read aloud before the Headmaster at the close of the academic year – observed for the first time on Indian soil. 


A culture, earned

There is no ‘the way we’ve always done it’ to fall back on in Year One,” says Dominic Tomalin, Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury International School India. “Every assembly, every house tradition, every small ritual that will one day feel timeless to a child in these classrooms had to be imagined, tested, and earned before it could become part of who we are.” He credits the school’s founding pupils with setting its tone: “They arrived with nothing to go on but belief – courage, commitment, and a trust in something bigger than themselves, before there was any proof it would work.” 


The school has drawn deliberately on two traditions in shaping its first year: Shrewsbury’s own, running back four centuries, and India’s Gurukul model of educating the whole person rather than the mind alone. The two are held together under what the school terms its Salopian Virtues – Wisdom, Integrity, Courage, Kindness, Self-Mastery and Spirit, which inform its daily and academic life alike. 


Looking ahead 

Shrewsbury India has this month welcomed its second cohort of pupils, and admissions remain open for families weighing a residential education of this kind. Of the year now closed, Tomalin writes simply: “If we continue as we began, we are a legacy school in the making.” 

About Shrewsbury International School India 
Shrewsbury International School India is located on a 150-acre campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and is the first international campus of Shrewsbury School UK (founded 1552) outside the United Kingdom.

 

For further information, visit www.shrewsburyindia.in.* 

Zorcha Makes Instagram DM Automation Free for Everyone

Zorcha, the Meta-verified Instagram DM automation platform trusted by creators and businesses worldwide, today announced that its core Instagram DM automation features are now available completely free.

 

Zorcha Team

 

The announcement marks a significant shift in the creator technology landscape. Until now, professional Instagram DM automation has largely been limited to paid software, preventing millions of creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses from leveraging automation to grow their audience and generate revenue.

 

With this launch, every Instagram creator can start automating unlimited conversations at zero cost using Zorcha’s official Meta API integration.

 

Instagram has democratised distribution for everyone. Reaching millions of people was once a privilege only big corporations had but now anyone with a phone and internet connection can do that. Instagram has become one of the most important business platforms in the world, yet automation has remained inaccessible for many because of software costs. By making our core DM automation platform free, we’re removing that barrier entirely. Our goal is simple—to help every creator and business win the attention game,” said Archit Mehrotra, CEO of Zorcha.

 

The announcement also reflects Zorcha’s broader vision of becoming the operating system for Instagram growth. Beyond DM automation, the platform continues to expand into AI-powered chats, digital products, content scheduling, brand collabs, and complex lead generation chat bots with the goal of becoming a single platform for everything creators need to grow on Instagram.

 

Since its launch, Zorcha has rapidly grown into one of the fastest-growing Instagram automation platforms, helping more than 100,000 creators and businesses automate millions of conversations using Meta’s official APIs.

 

The free plan is available immediately. For more information, visit www.zorcha.com.

 

About Zorcha

Zorcha is an automation platform built to help creators and businesses win the attention game. The platform enables users to automate Instagram conversations, engage potential customers instantly, generate and qualify leads, and drive conversions through intelligent messaging journeys. Zorcha is an official Meta Verified Tech Provider and is used by more than 100,000 creators and businesses worldwide.

Policy Continuity Reinforces Realty Confidence as RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25%

The RBI’s move to hold the repo rate steady at 5.25 percent has received much praise from industrialists because it is seen as providing stability in the housing as well as commercial realty sectors. The stability in interest rates provides assurance to homebuyers, aids in making investment decisions, and helps in planning future projects for the developers. It was also stated that the continued development of infrastructure along with the robustness of end-user demand provides a sound base for the future.
 

Real estate developers welcomed the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged, saying it has boosted confidence among stakeholders.
 

Real estate leaders welcomed the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, citing greater policy stability and stronger confidence across the sector
 

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “The decision by the RBI to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% would bring much-needed stability to the housing market, especially for first-time home purchasers. Predictable borrowing costs make long-term financial planning more practical and help buyers take ownership decisions with greater assurance.“
 

Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, said, “India’s resilient economic outlook continues to provide a strong foundation for real estate, and the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% adds further certainty to that trajectory. A measured monetary policy encourages long-term capital deployment across residential and commercial assets alike. This approach is expected to deepen investor participation and sustain the sector’s growth over the coming quarters.”
 

Tejpreet Singh Gill, Managing Director, Gillco Group, said, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% provides much-needed stability for the housing market. With home loan rates expected to remain stable, buyers can plan their purchases with greater confidence, while developers can continue investing in project execution and future developments.”
 

Manoj Garg, CEO, Northwind Estates, said, “If 2025 was defined by successive reductions in interest rates, 2026 is increasingly emerging as a year of stability. The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% reinforces a policy environment that allows both homebuyers and developers to plan with greater certainty.”
 

Kushagr Ansal, Director, Ansal Housing, said, “Long-term homeownership decisions are closely linked with financial certainty, making the RBI’s decision to retain the repo rate at 5.25% a welcome development for the residential market. The current interest rate environment allows housing demand to progress steadily while giving the sector greater visibility for future growth.”
 

Dr. Annkit A. Jayant, CEO, HP Global Infrra, said, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% is a positive step that reinforces stability in the housing market. For emerging destinations like Haridwar, where demand is increasingly driven by end-users, retirees, second-home buyers, and wellness-focused investors, a stable interest rate environment enhances purchase confidence and supports long-term investment decisions.”
 

Sanchit Jain, Director, Sarvottam India, said, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is an encouraging development for the real estate sector. It will strengthen the confidence of prospective homebuyers and enable developers to move forward with new projects with greater clarity. Housing demand continues to rise across several cities, including the NCR, driven by improved road connectivity, metro expansion, and other infrastructure developments.”
 

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Spectrum Metro, said, “Organised retail benefits greatly from a financing environment that offers clarity and consistency, making the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% particularly encouraging. Expansion plans by leading brands, stronger leasing activity and growing consumer spending continue to shape quality retail destinations.”
 

In conclusion, this move by the RBI can be seen as a positive sign for the real estate industry, since the industry leaders are optimistic about the future of growth and policy stability that will promote homebuyers’ confidence, investments, and development.