REVA University inaugurated its Centre for Distance & Online Education (CDOE) on November 5, 2026, marking a significant step towards expanding access to quality higher education through flexible, technology-enabled learning.

Dr. P. Shyamaraju, Chancellor, REVA University, inaugurating the Centre for Distance and Online Education, along with other dignitaries

Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Chancellor, REVA University, inaugurated the Centre in the presence of Dr. M. Dhanamjaya, Registrar; Dr. Beena G, Registrar (Evaluation); Dr. K. S. Narayanswamy, Pro Vice Chancellor; and Dr. Y. Ramalingareddy, Pro Vice Chancellor, among other dignitaries.

The Centre aims to extend REVA University’s academic excellence beyond the traditional campus by offering online learning opportunities to students, working professionals, entrepreneurs and lifelong learners. Combining academic rigour, industry-relevant curriculum, digital learning infrastructure and dedicated academic support, CDOE seeks to make higher education more accessible while enabling learners to balance their educational aspirations with personal and professional commitments.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Chancellor, REVA University, said, “Education should never be restricted by location, age or personal circumstances. At REVA, we believe every individual should have the opportunity to learn, grow and realise their potential. Whether a learner studies on campus or through a digital platform, our commitment remains the same—to nurture capable, confident and enterprising individuals who can shape their own futures.”

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Dr. M. Dhanamjaya, Registrar, REVA University, said, “With the launch of CDOE, REVA University is extending its academic legacy and creating new pathways for learners to pursue higher education. The National Education Policy 2020 envisions increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education to 50% by 2035. Through this initiative, REVA University aims to contribute to this national vision by supporting greater participation in higher education through flexible and inclusive learning opportunities.”

Setting the context for the initiative, Shri Gautam Gupte, Director, Centre for Distance & Online Education, said, “At CDOE, our focus is on creating an engaging and interactive learning experience through live classes, student-centric academic support and continuous mentoring. We want learners to remain actively connected with their education while receiving the guidance and resources needed to progress confidently.”

Four Programmes to Open New Learning Pathways

As an initial offering, CDOE has launched two undergraduate and two postgraduate programmes: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Computer Applications (MCA).

The programmes are designed to integrate academic foundations with contemporary industry requirements and practical learning opportunities.

The BBA and BCA programmes are of three years’ duration, comprising six semesters and 120 credits each. The MBA and MCA programmes are of two years’ duration, comprising four semesters and 96 credits each.

The BBA programme offers a dual specialisation in Banking & Finance, while BCA provides elective tracks in AI & Data, Security, and Software & Product. The MBA offers six dual-specialisation pathways, and the MCA focuses on advanced computing areas, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing and Big Data.

Eligibility and Admission

Candidates seeking admission to the BBA and BCA programmes must have completed 10+2, PUC or an equivalent qualification, with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).

For MBA and MCA admissions, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree of at least three years from a UGC-recognised institution, with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for reserved categories). Bridge courses will be provided for eligible MCA applicants from non-computer science streams, as applicable.

The University follows two admission cycles every year, in January and July. Admissions are now open for the January 2027 cycle.

Eligible candidates can also explore scholarship opportunities under various categories, including Merit-Based Scholarships, REVA Alumni Scholarships, Extra-Curricular Excellence Scholarships and REVA Employee Scholarships, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.

Extending REVA’s Academic Excellence Through Digital Learning

The Centre for Distance & Online Education extends REVA University’s multidisciplinary academic ecosystem to learners across geographical boundaries. Online programmes are delivered through an integrated Learning Management System (LMS), which provides access to live and recorded lectures, e-books, digital library resources, study materials, discussion forums, assignments, quizzes and proctored examinations.

The learning ecosystem follows a four-quadrant approach comprising structured learning plans, interactive live classes and discussion forums, e-content and e-tutorials, and self-assessment activities. This enables learners to engage with academic content systematically while monitoring their progress throughout the programme.

To ensure continuous academic engagement, the Centre is supported by dedicated Programme and Course Coordinators, a Student Support Office and the Centre for Internal Quality Assurance (CIQA).

The LMS-based support mechanism addresses administrative and technical queries within 24 hours and academic queries within 48 hours. The assessment framework comprises three Continuous Internal Assessments accounting for 30% and a proctored Semester-End Examination accounting for 70% of the overall evaluation.

A Learning Experience That Goes Beyond the Screen

At REVA CDOE, online learning combines flexibility with academic engagement, practical exposure and technology-enabled resources. Learners benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty, industry experts and dedicated mentors, along with programme-specific learning activities.

Depending on the programme, practical learning opportunities include case studies, simulations, analytics tools, coding exercises, virtual laboratories, capstone projects and industry-oriented assignments.

The Centre also provides career guidance and professional development support to help learners prepare for emerging professional opportunities. Upon meeting the applicable requirements, graduates will become part of the REVA University alumni community.

Educate to Enterprise: Taking REVA’s Learning Philosophy to a Wider Community

The launch of CDOE reinforces REVA University’s guiding philosophy of Educate to Enterprise, which emphasises that education must go beyond imparting knowledge to nurturing innovation, initiative, creativity and an enterprising mindset.

By extending this philosophy to online learners, the Centre aims to empower individuals to translate academic knowledge into practical capabilities, strengthen their professional competencies and identify growth opportunities.

For admissions and programme details:

Website: www.online.reva.edu.in
Centre for Distance & Online Education
REVA University
Rukmini Knowledge Park, Kattigenahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru – 560 064.

Phone: 81053 66623
Email: admissions.ol@reva.edu.in

RIA Advisory India has been recognized by Great Place To Work® India among India’s Best Workplaces for Women 2026, adding another significant accolade to its workplace recognition journey.

Strong women. Stronger together. Celebrating the confidence, resilience and collective strength of women at RIA Advisory

The achievement reflects RIA Advisory India’s commitment to fostering a workplace where people feel valued, respected, and empowered to grow. It also underscores the importance of creating an environment where women can develop their capabilities, pursue opportunities, and make meaningful contributions to the organization’s success.

As part of a global, AI-first business and technology advisory firm, RIA Advisory India brings together human expertise, technology, and diverse perspectives to solve complex business challenges. Women across the organization contribute through their expertise, leadership, collaboration, and ideas, helping shape both the workplace and the value RIA delivers to its clients.

Saket Pabby, Founder and Managing Member, RIA Advisory, said, “Building a strong organization means creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and people have the opportunity to lead. Women play an important role in RIA’s growth, bringing the expertise, ambition, and leadership that help us innovate and deliver lasting value. This accolade reinforces our commitment to ensuring that talent and potential have every opportunity to thrive.”

Rama Balage, Chief Human Resources Officer, RIA Advisory, said, “An inclusive workplace is shaped by the opportunities people receive and the support they experience. We remain steadfast in creating an environment where women can develop their capabilities, progress in their careers, and feel supported at every stage of their professional journey. This accolade makes us proud that we are doing something right at RIA and has now motivated us to build on it and do more.”

Sameer Deo, Country Head – India, said, “Women at RIA Advisory India contribute across teams, functions, and leadership levels, bringing valuable perspectives to the work we do. Their impact is reflected in how we collaborate, solve problems, and develop future leaders. We remain committed to creating opportunities for women to grow, take on greater responsibilities, and help shape our future.”

For RIA Advisory India, this milestone is both a recognition of the culture it continues to build and an opportunity to keep moving forward. By creating space for women to contribute, lead, and grow, the organization aims to ensure that its people remain central to its progress and long-term success.

About the Recognition

Great Place To Work® is a global authority on workplace culture, drawing on more than three decades of research into employee experience and people practices. Its India’s Best Workplaces for Women recognition highlights organizations that demonstrate a commitment to building inclusive, high-trust workplaces where women can contribute, develop, and thrive.

About RIA Advisory

Founded in 2016, RIA Advisory is a global, AI-first business and technology advisory firm helping organizations transform complex business processes and modernize revenue, pricing, billing, and customer care operations. The firm serves clients across Financial Services, Utilities, Healthcare, the Public Sector, Capital Markets, Exchanges, and Insurance through strategic consulting, technology implementation, and business transformation.

Following its integration with TMG Consulting in 2022, RIA Advisory has expanded its global capabilities and today employs more than 1,000 professionals worldwide. Headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida, the firm operates across the U.S., U.K., Canada, India, the Philippines, Australia, Mexico, and South Africa, combining human expertise, AI, and technology to deliver scalable, ROI-driven solutions and lasting business value.

Newmark India has completed its first year of operations, marking an important milestone in the development of its real estate business in the country. Over the past year, the company has built its leadership and operating platform, expanded its presence across key markets and secured mandates across a diverse range of clients and real estate requirements.

With the foundation now in place, Newmark India has entered its second year with a clear focus on sustainable growth, deeper client relationships and greater integration across its service capabilities. Investments in people, technology and operational excellence will remain central to this next phase.

Since commencing operations, Newmark India has focused on bringing together Newmark’s global capabilities with strong local market expertise. The business has established strong governance and operating frameworks, strengthened its leadership and delivery teams, and built the capabilities required to support occupiers, investors and developers across markets.

Sathish Rajendren, Country Head RE & EMD, PM & FM – India & APAC

Sathish Rajendren, Country Head RE & EMD, PM & FM – India & APAC, said, “Our first year was about building a strong foundation for Newmark in India. We have established our presence, built a strong team and, most importantly, earned the trust of our clients. As we enter our second year, our focus is to build on that foundation through deeper client partnerships, stronger capabilities and consistent execution. We want to build a business recognised not simply for its scale, but for the quality and measurable value of what we deliver.”

Newmark India’s growth comes at a time when the country’s commercial real estate landscape is evolving rapidly. The continued expansion of Global Capability Centres, alongside growth across sectors such as manufacturing, life sciences, industrial and logistics, and data centres, is changing the nature of real estate requirements. At the same time, occupiers and investors are placing greater emphasis on operational efficiency, workplace experience, sustainability and long-term asset performance.

Against this backdrop, Newmark India sees an opportunity to bring its Property & Facilities Management, Project Management, Occupier Solutions and advisory capabilities together more closely. The aim is to provide clients with more connected support across the real estate lifecycle, combining on-ground execution with global expertise and consistent operating standards.

Technology will be an important enabler of this strategy. Newmark India plans to deepen the use of data, automation and artificial intelligence across its operations, with a focus on better decision-making, predictive maintenance, asset performance and workplace experience. Sustainability will increasingly form part of the same operating approach, with greater emphasis on measurable improvements across areas such as energy, water and waste management.

People will be equally important to the company’s next phase. Newmark India plans to continue investing in leadership development, professional growth and stronger operating processes as the business evolves. The focus will be on building teams with the expertise, agility and local market understanding required to deliver consistently for clients.

The business will also look to deepen collaboration across Newmark’s global and APAC network, particularly in supporting multinational occupiers with increasingly complex and cross-market real estate requirements.

Rajendren added “Our long-term opportunity is to make real estate a more strategic part of our clients’ businesses. That means understanding not just their properties, but their people, operations and growth priorities. As we move forward, our ambition is clear: to strengthen our capabilities, deepen our partnerships and deliver outcomes that create lasting value for our clients.”

As Diwali celebrations begin across India, OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation along with Narayana Nethralaya, a leading vision care hospital, is committed towards educating the public on celebrating an accident-free, animal-friendly Diwali. Concerns regarding several emergency room admissions linked to firecracker mishaps, that are reported every year, Narayana Nethralaya highlighted the history of high-volume cases involving severe ocular burns, blast-induced acoustic trauma, and shrapnel injuries, with children and innocent bystanders bearing most of the impact. Prioritizing public safety and urging ‘Firecracker Hygiene’ for promoting individual vision health, and the welfare of distressed domestic and stray animals. 
 

L to R: Dr Himanshu Matalia, Dr Narendra KP, Dr Jyoti Matalia, Mr K V Mahesh, Dr Aaditi Anilkumar, Mr Denver Lobo
 

Clinical reports from the state’s premier eyecare center indicates that thousands of preventable vision-threatening injuries occur annually due to high-decibel explosives and unpredictable projectile fireworks. Reflecting on the alarming influx of emergency cases, Dr Rohit Shetty, Vice Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya, stated, “Every year during Diwali, our emergency teams witness a significant number of cases involving corneal tears, chemical burns, and deep blast injuries. Shockingly, more than half of these victims are children, and nearly half are innocent bystanders who were simply walking on the street. A split-second failure to maintain safe distances or wear protective eyewear can lead to irreversible loss of sight. We urgently need education on Fireworks Safety and a collective commitment towards promoting a Safer Diwali across schools and communities to safeguard our children’s future.” 

Championing our commitment towards vision care and systemic prevention, Venu Ambati, President – EssilorLuxottica, India and Director of the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, added, “At the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, our core mission is to empower individuals by protecting and correcting their vision. True vision leadership extends beyond corrective care to active harm prevention. The spike in fireworks-induced trauma during festive periods challenges the very foundation of healthy sight in our communities. We urge citizens to recognize that healthy vision is a precious asset. By adopting simple protective habits, we can ensure that the festival of lights reflects brightness for the future.” 

PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY ADVISORY: Protecting Humans and Animals This Diwali

DO’S:

• Keep a Safe Distance: Always maintain an arm’s length while lighting fireworks, and retreat to a safe distance immediately.

• Wear Protective Eyewear: Utilize plain glass spectacles or protective goggles to block flying debris and sparks.

• Direct Supervision: Ensure an adult is always present when children are near fireworks.

• Keep Water Handy: Maintain large buckets of water and sand nearby to quickly extinguish accidental fires or cool used sparklers.

• Protect the Ears: Use earplugs or cotton balls to shield your ears from sudden, high-decibel fireworks explosions.

• Provide Shelters for Pets: Keep domestic animals indoors in a quiet, closed room with curtains drawn. Play soothing music to mask the loud sounds outside.

• Show Compassion to Strays: Allow stray animals to take temporary shelter in your building compounds or safe alcoves away from street fireworks. 

• Get immediate medical care: Rush to the nearest medical center in case of any emergency or injuries

DONT’S:

• Never Re-ignite Duds: If a firework does not ignite, leave it alone. Never approach or bend over a failed firework to relight it.

• Avoid Hand-bursting: Never light fireworks while holding them in your hand or throw them randomly onto public roads.

• No Fireworks in Closed Containers: Do not ignite fireworks inside metal boxes, glass bottles, or clay pots, as this creates highly dangerous flying shrapnel.

• Say No to High-Decibel Fireworks: Completely avoid bursting high-decibel “fireworks” that triggers acute acoustic trauma in humans and severe panic in animals.

• Avoid Rubbing Injured Eyes: In the event of an eye injury, do not rub the eye or apply unprescribed ointments. Cover it gently with a clean patch and rush to the nearest specialized eye care hospital immediately. 

About OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation

The OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation is committed to expanding sustainable access to vision care in underserved communities worldwide. Inspired by EssilorLuxottica’s mission to Empower Humans, the Foundation provides free eye exams and glasses, strengthens local vision care systems, and partners with NGOs, governments, and like-minded organizations to deliver scalable, long-term solutions. As the first Global Collaborating Partner of the World Health Organization’s SPECS 2030 initiative, the Foundation supports the integration of vision care into primary healthcare systems and advances progress toward universal access. To date, its work has reached more than 140 countries and enabled access to vision care for over one billion people.

About Narayana Nethralaya

Narayana Nethralaya is one of India’s leading super-specialty eye care institutions, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Founded in 1982 by Dr. K. Bhujang Shetty, it has grown from a small eye clinic into a renowned eye care network providing advanced ophthalmic treatment, research, education, and community eye health services.

As consumers invest in upgrading their homes, choosing appliances that complement their interiors while delivering everyday comfort remains an important consideration. Recognising this, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., the World’s No. 1 Ceiling Fan Brand, has introduced its new range of Super Premium Fans – SilentPro Fluido Glide, Luxian Jupiter Senze and Luxian Statement Senze. Combining distinctive designs with smart technology and personalised comfort, the new range brings together aesthetics and functionality for contemporary homes.

Super Premium Fan Range

As consumers pay greater attention to the details that shape their living spaces, every element of the home is expected to complement the overall design. Yet, while considerable thought goes into choosing furniture, lighting and other elements of home décor, the ceiling fan can often be overlooked as a purely functional appliance. Crompton’s new range addresses this consideration by bringing design to the forefront, with three distinct models that allow consumers to choose a fan that complements their interiors while meeting their everyday comfort needs. The range reflects the growing relevance of appliances that are not only functional but also contribute to the overall look and feel of a home.

The newly launched range offers cooling solutions tailored to different needs:

• SilentPro Fluido Glide: Featuring a fluid, sculptural three-blade design, the Fluido Glide iOT brings a contemporary aesthetic to living spaces. Its SilentPro technology is designed to deliver operation that is twice as silent, while offering up to 50% energy savings. Available in 1200 mm and 900 mm sweep sizes, the fan comes in five finishes: Pacific Blue, Crater Brown, Glow White, Matte Black and Espresso Wood, with the 900 mm variant available in selected colours. It also comes with a four-year motor warranty and a two-year warranty on the printed circuit board (PCB). The Fluido Glido has also received the German Design Awards 2027.

• Luxian Jupiter Senze: Combining decorative detailing with everyday functionality, the Jupiter Senze iOT features chandelier-style glass lampshades with E22 bulb holders, making the fan a distinctive element of the room’s décor. The model has a 1200 mm sweep, delivers air at 210 CMM and operates at 295 RPM. It carries a five-star rating and comes with a four-year motor warranty and a two-year PCB warranty.

• Luxian Statement Senze: Designed to make a visual statement, the Statement Senze iOT features an eight-blade structure complemented by a Bistre Brown finish and an integrated downrod cover for a seamless appearance. The model delivers air at 250 CMM, operates at 36 W and carries a five-star rating. It also comes with a four-year motor warranty and a two-year PCB warranty.

Across all three models, ActivBLDC technology and 20+ speed options allow users to fine-tune airflow to their preferences. The IoT-enabled fans can be operated through the Crompton Senze mobile app, remote control and compatible voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Timer functions and smart scheduling add convenience to everyday use, while reverse rotation supports indoor air circulation across seasons.

Speaking about the launch, Mr. Sachin Phartiyal, Business Unit Head – Home Electricals, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, “When we think about decorating a room, we often focus on the walls, furniture and lighting—but the ceiling is the fifth wall, and what we choose for it can shape the feel of the entire space. A ceiling fan doesn’t have to be just a functional appliance; it can be a design feature that brings character to a room while delivering the comfort we rely on every day. With our new range of Super Premium Fans, consumers can choose from distinctive styles—from an elegant fluidic design to a decorative detailing and a bold, statement-making design—and enjoy the practical benefits of ActivBLDC technology, 20+ speed options and smart controls. We’ve brought design and everyday functionality together so consumers can make their homes feel more personal, without compromising on comfort.”

With this launch, Crompton continues to expand its premium fan portfolio with designs that bring together distinctive aesthetics, smart technology and personalized comfort.

About Crompton

With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers. Beyond its consumer portfolio, Crompton also has a robust B2B presence in the Lighting segment, delivering advanced and energy-efficient solutions for commercial and industrial applications. In 2025, Crompton became the first lighting company to receive the GreenPro certification for its B2B lighting solution, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Strengthening its foothold in the renewable energy space, the company has forayed into solar rooftops—representing a significant step forward in its contribution to India’s evolving clean energy landscape. With solar solutions spanning lighting, pumps, and rooftops, Crompton continues to lead as a responsible and future-ready brand in sustainable energy.

The company’s consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the company’s storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of India’s Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.

• Offers two distinct choices: Wealth for goal-led investing over 10 – 40 years and Legacy for long term cover up to age 100

• Get return of eligible charges at maturity, Systematic Withdrawal Facility from Year 6 and the freedom to manage your plan

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurers, today launched Wealth Infinity Plan, a unit-linked life insurance plan that brings together long-term wealth creation and life insurance protection. Designed around two different financial horizons 1. Building towards a goal 2. Planning for the next Generation – the plan promises customers the freedom to choose investment funds and strategies that support each life stage.

Ageas Federal Life Insurance

The plan offers two options: Wealth, designed for individuals looking to accumulate wealth towards specific long-term financial goals with a policy term of 10 to 40 years; and Legacy, which combines investment and life insurance cover up to the age of 100 years. The two options allow customers to choose a structure suited to their financial priorities, with flexibility in premium payment and investment strategies.

A key feature of the Wealth Infinity Plan is its range of five investment strategies and 12 fund options, enabling policyholders to select an investment approach based on their preferences and risk appetite. Customers who prefer to make their own investment decisions can use the Self-Managed Strategy to allocate funds available in the plan. Those seeking a more structured approach can choose the Glide Path Strategy to gradually shift the equity-debt mix as maturity approaches; the Systematic Investment Protection Strategy phases investment from debt fund into selected equity funds; the Systematic Gain Strategy moves gains to debt fund when predefined levels are reached; and the Life Stage Strategy adjusts allocation based on age and selected risk profile.

The 12-fund options cover different investment approaches and market segments. These include the IndiGenius Fund, which focuses on high-growth companies across market capitalisations associated with India’s indigenisation, ingenuity and growth themes; the Large Cap Quality Fund, which tracks the BSE Large Cap 100 Quality 30 Index; and the Momentum Growth Fund. The range also includes equity, asset-allocation and fixed-income options, giving customers a choice based on their risk appetite and investment horizon. The investment risk in the portfolio is borne by the policyholder, and fund values are subject to market risks.

The plan incorporates features designed to reward long-term policy continuity. Eligible policies will receive Loyalty Additions and Wealth Boosters. In addition, eligible policyholders receive a return of premium allocation charges and mortality charges at maturity, subject to the policy conditions. The plan does not levy policy administration charges.

Another stand-out feature is the Systematic Withdrawal Facility, which allows policyholders to receive periodic payouts from their fund value after completion of five policy years. This provides flexibility to access funds for planned financial needs while remaining invested. The plan also offers unlimited fund switches without additional switching charges, subject to policy terms and conditions.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Jude Gomes, Managing Director & CEO, Ageas Federal Life Insurance, said, “Every stage of life brings new aspirations, responsibilities and promises we make to ourselves and our loved ones. At Ageas Federal Life Insurance, we believe our role goes beyond offering financial solutions; it is about being a trusted partner through these evolving journeys and helping customers move closer to the future they envision. With ‘Wealth Infinity’, we continue to strengthen this commitment by empowering individuals and families to pursue their aspirations and build a lasting financial legacy. This reflects our belief in making every Promise Possible, today and at every stage of life.”

With a minimum annual premium of Rs. 2 lakh and a minimum Single Pay premium of Rs. 5 lakh, Wealth Infinity is designed for customers seeking a structured, long-term approach to wealth creation alongside life protection.

Wealth Infinity Plan is available subject to applicable eligibility criteria and policy terms and conditions. To know more, please visit ageasfederal.com/ulip-plans/wealth-infinity-plan.

About Ageas Federal Life Insurance

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurers, offers a diverse range of wealth management, protection, and retirement solutions to individual and corporate customers. Ageas Federal Life Insurance Co. Ltd. is a joint venture of Ageas, a multinational insurance group headquartered in Europe, and Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks.

Having commenced operations in 2008, Ageas Federal achieved breakeven within five years. Through a nationwide network of 3,800+ branches including partner bank branches and a sizeable advisor network, the Company has established a strong pan-India presence. As of March 31, 2026, the Company issued over 17.75 lakh policies with a sum assured of over Rs. 71,694 crore, total assets under management of over Rs. 20,035 crore, and a robust capital base of over Rs. 800 crore.

Northern Arc Investment Managers Private Limited (“Northern Arc Investment Manager”), the asset management subsidiary of Northern Arc Capital Limited, a diversified financial services platform has announced the first close of its Northern Arc Diversified Debt Fund, with commitments exceeding Rs. 400 crore from institutions, family offices, ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). This fund is Northern Arc Investment Manager’s 15^th private credit fund, a sector-agnostic Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) focused on performing private credit opportunities. Rated AA (SO) by CareEdge Ratings, the fund targets a corpus of Rs. 1,500 crore, with an additional greenshoe option of Rs. 500 crore, taking its potential size to Rs. 2,000 crore, with a tenure of five years, the fund targets 16% XIRR.
 

Ashish Mehrotra, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Northern Arc Capital
 

The announcement coincides with the maturity of Northern Arc India Impact Fund, which channelled global capital into financial inclusion opportunities across India. Over its tenure, the fund supported 60 businesses across credit cycles, with gross deployment of over Rs. 1398 crore at fund Level, backed by investments from ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs), family offices, and domestic and global institutional investors.

Commenting on the announcements, Ashish Mehrotra, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Northern Arc Capital, said, “The first close of the Northern Arc Diversified Debt Fund reflects continued investor interest in private credit and its evolving role in sophisticated investment portfolios. The maturity of our Northern Arc India Impact Fund further demonstrates our experience in managing private credit investments across credit cycles. Together, these milestones reinforce our focus on disciplined credit selection, portfolio diversification and risk management. Over the past decade, we have built a diversified private credit platform that has deployed over Rs. 16,500 crores across 15 AIFs and two PMS offerings and served more than 1,500 investors across institutional and wealth segments. As private credit becomes an increasingly strategic allocation for investors, we remain focused on connecting capital with businesses across sectors while creating opportunities for risk-adjusted returns.”

Since its inception in 2014, Northern Arc Investment Manager has launched 15 funds, of which seven have fully matured delivering returns to the investors at a weighted average XIRR of over 14.5%, in line with targeted returns, without any extension or principal loss to the investors. Northern Arc Investment Manager has cumulatively distributed over Rs. 10,000 crore of principal and coupon since inception and manages private credit funds and investment mandates.

Alongside these milestones, Northern Arc Capital continued to deliver a strong operating performance in Q2FY27, reporting a 41% YoY growth in consolidated PAT to Rs. 129 crore and a 32% YoY increase in NII to Rs. 425 crore. Lending AUM grew 34% YoY to Rs. 19,003 crore, supported by robust 64% growth in direct lending AUM to Rs. 12,502 crore, which now accounts for 66% of the overall portfolio. Credit costs also improved by 11 bps YoY to 2.66%, reflecting the resilience of its lending franchise. Together, these developments highlight Northern Arc’s ability to scale its lending and investment management businesses while maintaining a strong focus on portfolio quality, disciplined growth and sustainable value creation.

*Disclaimer: All the numbers stated are as of September 30, 2026.
 

Past performance is not indicative of future results. Target returns are not assured, and investment in AIFs is subject to market, credit, liquidity and other risks, including loss of capital. This release is for information only and is not an offer or solicitation; units are offered only by private placement through the private placement memorandum, which investors should read. The CareEdge ratings is not a recommendation and does not eliminate credit risk.

Antara Senior Care, the senior-care business of Max India Limited, today announced the joining of Dr Rachit Gulati, a specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Pain Management and Rheumatology, has joined its Care Home in Delhi NCR. His appointment strengthens Antara’s post-operative, transition and high-dependency care for adults aged 18 and above, including seniors, who are recovering from surgery, serious illness or prolonged hospitalisation.

Antara post-operative care

Dr Gulati holds an MBBS and an MD in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, along with a Fellowship in Pain Medicine and a Certificate in Rheumatology (EULAR). He brings over a decade of experience in clinical practice, healthcare leadership and developing comprehensive rehabilitation services. His clinical expertise spans spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Parkinsonism and stroke rehabilitation, musculoskeletal and rheumatological disorders, chronic pain management and interventional physiatry. Antara already has PMRs leading the rehabilitation and recovery of resident in Care homes in Bengaluru and Chennai, and now with Dr. Rachit joining in NCR, the PMR leadership across the country is complete. In July 2026, its Bengaluru center introduced ExoAtlet II, a robotic-assisted exoskeleton.

Most recently, he headed the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at ISIC Multispecialty Hospital (Indian Spinal Injuries Centre), New Delhi. His previous leadership roles include Chief Medical Officer at Praan Health and Medical Director at Recoup Health, Bengaluru, and SAAOL Ortho Care, Delhi. He has also held academic and clinical positions at AIIMS Bhopal, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and West Bengal Health Services. He has authored about twenty research papers of national and international repute and presented talks and posters at numerous rehabilitation conferences.

Dr Rachit Gulati said, “Rehabilitation is as much a part of treatment as the surgery or medical care that comes before it. Whether a patient is recovering from a joint replacement, a spinal cord injury, a stroke or a long stay in intensive care, how well they recover depends on how early and how precisely rehabilitation begins. No two patients recover the same way, so each plan must be built around the individual: their diagnosis, other medical conditions, pain and what they need to be able to do again. That plan works best when doctors, nurses, therapists and dietitians work on it together and adjust it as the patient progresses. At Antara, my focus will be on bringing this specialist-led, multidisciplinary approach to every patient, whether they are 25 or 85, so that they recover faster, more safely and more completely.

Commenting on the appointment, Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services Ltd., said, “Ageing well is no longer seen as a matter of adding years but leading a healthy life. At Antara, we are focused on building a care ecosystem that can respond to the evolving needs of seniors at different stages of recovery and ageing, with physician-led, evidence-based rehabilitation delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Recovery Care in India has long sat in the gap between the hospital and the home, with no one fully owning it. At Antara Care homes, we have made a deliberate choice to win that space and build it in clinical depth, not just capacity. In the last few months, we have focused on enhancing the clinical acumen across all our care homes with each city now being led by a PMR, more advanced physiotherapy interventions and a deep focus on building infrastructure across the country to ensure the best standards of recovery and rehabilitation. Dr Gulati’s appointment is an important step in deepening this capability and helping seniors regain functional independence and improve their quality of life.”

Antara’s Care Homes offer specialised short-term post-operative and transition care, along with long-term high-dependency care, for adults aged 18 and above, including seniors, recovering from surgeries, illnesses or prolonged hospitalisation. Care is doctor-led and backed by nursing and clinical depth, with individualised rehabilitation plans that bring together physiotherapy, spinal cord rehabilitation, speech and swallow therapy, nutrition and dietetics, fall prevention, and catheter and feeding tube care, tailored to each patient’s clinical needs and recovery goals. With a focus on restoring mobility, improving functional abilities and reducing the risk of complications, Antara aims to support patients through a structured recovery journey and help them return to their everyday routines with greater confidence and independence. The appointment of Dr Gulati further strengthens this clinical approach, bringing specialised expertise in rehabilitation and pain management to support better recovery outcomes. Antara also offers insurance claims support to patients and their families, subject to policy and insurer approval.

About Antara Senior Care
Launched in 2013, Antara is the senior-care business of Max India Limited, part of the USD6.3-billion Max Group. It is an integrated ecosystem for senior care, operating in two main lines of business – Residences for Seniors and Assisted Care Services. Antara’s first senior residential community in Dehradun, comprising nearly 200 families, caters to their social, recreational, educational, wellness, and health-related needs. Its second senior living community in Noida’s Sector-150 has started welcoming families into the 340 apartments built in Phase 1. Expanding its footprint in Gurugram, Antara will manage senior living residences, dedicated spaces for senior living, and primary healthcare services at Estate 360 and Estate 361, developed by group company Max Estates. Antara’s Assisted Care Services include Care Homes and Services, AGEasy, and Antara Integrated Wellness Clinic. This line of business caters to seniors, who need more immersive interventions in their daily lives due to medical or age-related issues. With eight facilities and 485 beds across Gurugram, Noida, Bengaluru and Chennai, Care Homes provide long-term care to seniors who require constant medical and nursing supervision, and short-term care services for recuperation of seniors. Its care at home services, offered in Delhi NCR, Bengaluru and Chennai, provide well-equipped, trained professionals offering care to seniors inside their home’s comfort. AGEasy, the direct-to-consumer business arm focusing on senior-specific products and solutions for active ageing, has touched over 9 lakh lives since inception in 2023. Antara Integrated Wellness Clinic combines modern medicine with evidence-based traditional therapies through a multidisciplinary team of doctors to deliver personalised care plans.

• In a clinical trial with 31 healthy young adults living in Spain (average age 24 years), consumption of 40 grams (approximately one and a half ounces) of walnuts daily was associated with overall improvement in mood, accompanied by a reduction in anger and fatigue.

• These findings, together with those of a complementary 2025 study, suggest that walnut consumption may have beneficial effects on different aspects of well-being, such as mood and sleep.

• The researchers and registered dietitian-nutritionists Drs. Maria Izquierdo-Pulido, Fernanda Zerón, and Isabella Parilli highlight that incorporating a handful of walnuts a day is a simple gesture within a healthy diet, and that the new findings reinforce the interest in continuing to investigate their role in mood.

Clinical research led by Dr. Maria Izquierdo-Pulido, Professor of Nutrition and Food Science at the Torribera Campus of the University of Barcelona, shows that consuming a handful of walnuts a day for eight weeks may help improve mood in healthy young adults.¹ The study, published in Food & Function and supported by the California Walnut Commission, also provides new evidence on the possible biological mechanisms involved, related to the gut microbiota and serotonin metabolism. During the intervention, improvements were also observed in some aspects related to emotional eating, although these findings were exploratory in nature.

California walnuts

These findings add to complementary 2025 research by the same team, in which walnut consumption increased a biomarker of melatonin, a key hormone in sleep regulation, after the intervention period compared to the control period.² Taken together, both studies suggest that regular walnut consumption may have beneficial effects on different dimensions related to well-being, such as mood and sleep, and open new avenues to investigate the role of the gut-brain axis in these effects.

Walnuts and Mood: Key Study Findings – In this 18-week clinical trial, 31 healthy young adults, with a mean age of 24 years, consumed 40 grams of walnuts per day for eight weeks. Compared to the control period, the study found:¹

• A significant reduction in overall mood disturbance.

• Decreases in anger and fatigue levels.

• A reduction in some aspects of emotional eating and food-related guilt.

Improvements in mood were observed after eight weeks of intervention, supporting the potential role of regular walnut consumption as part of a healthy diet.

How Walnuts May Influence Mood: The Gut-Brain Connection – This research advances our understanding of how walnut consumption may influence mood through the connection between the gut microbiota and serotonin metabolism. During the intervention, participants showed significant increases in both urinary levels of urolithins, metabolites derived from walnut polyphenols, and 5-HIAA, the main metabolite of serotonin.¹ To explain these findings, the researchers propose the following mechanisms:

• Walnut ellagitannins and gut microbiota: Walnuts contain a high level of polyphenols, including ellagitannins.³ When consumed, these compounds are metabolized by the gut microbiota.

• Urolithin production: The microbiota transforms ellagitannins into urolithins, bioactive metabolites with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties that may play a role in gut-brain communication.^1,4

• Relationship with serotonin metabolism: In the study, the increase in urolithins was associated with an increase in urinary 5-HIAA. These results suggest a possible relationship between walnut polyphenol metabolism and serotonin-related pathways, although further studies are still needed to understand the mechanism.

“What is particularly interesting about this study is that we not only observed an improvement in mood but also changes in biomarkers that help us explore the biological mechanisms that may underlie this effect,” explains Dr. Maria Izquierdo-Pulido, lead investigator of the study at the University of Barcelona. “The observed relationship between urolithins and serotonin metabolism opens an interesting avenue for further research into the connection between walnut consumption, gut microbiota, and emotional well-being.”

While the study showed promising results, the population was small and included a mostly female sample. Further research is needed over longer periods of time to confirm these findings and determine whether potential benefits are also observed in other ages, populations, and in people with mood disorders.

Beyond Mood: The Nutritional Profile of Walnuts

• Protein: 4g 

• Fiber: 2g  

• Tryptophan: 38mg  

• An excellent source of plant-based omega-3 ALA: 2.5g* 

• Abundant polyphenols (69.3 ± 16.5 µmol catechin equivalents/g)^6,+ 

• Magnesium: 45mg 

Walnuts are a nutrient-dense food that provides protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Some of these components, such as tryptophan, ALA, and polyphenols, have been studied for their potential role in processes related to brain function and mood. These findings reinforce interest in including foods such as walnuts within broader nutritional strategies aimed at promoting well-being and brain health.

Easy Ways to Add Walnuts to Your Diet

• At breakfast: Add them to cereals, yogurt, or oatmeal, or incorporate them into homemade bread.

• As a snack: Enjoy a handful between meals.

• In main meals: Add them to salads, pasta, legumes, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

“Walnuts are very easy to incorporate into daily eating,” the researchers note. “Our results suggest that a simple habit such as including a handful of walnuts a day could also be of interest in relation to mood, always as part of a healthy eating pattern.”

For recipes, usage ideas and more, visit californiawalnuts.in and follow @californiawalnutsindia.

About the California Walnut Commission

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 3,700 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers whose walnuts are sold around the world, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. California walnuts, grown primarily in multi-generational family orchards, are known for their quality, nutritional and wellness benefits.

The CWC, established in 1987, drives domestic and export market development activities and health research to support sales of California walnuts around the globe.

References:

1. Zeron-Rugerio MF, Parilli I, Gonzalez-Rodriguez A, et al. Walnut consumption improves mood and is associated with urolithin production and serotonin turnover: a randomized crossover trial. Food & Function. 2026; DOI: 10.1039/d6fo00807k

2. Zerón-Rugerio MF, Ibarra-Picón A, Diez-Hernández M, Comas-Basté O, Pérez-Cano FJ, Cambras T, Izquierdo-Pulido M. Daily walnut consumption increases 6-sulfatoxymelatonin urinary levels and can improve sleep quality: a randomized crossover trial. Food Funct. 2025 Sep 15;16(18):7023-7035. doi: 10.1039/d5fo00971e.

3. E. Ros, M. Izquierdo-Pulido and A. Sala-Vila, Curr. Opin. Clin. Nutr. Metab. Care, 2018, 21, 498–504.

4. M. Trapali and V. Lagouri, Open Med. Chem. J., 2025, 19, e18741045375825

5. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. Fdc.nal.usda.gov.

6. Prior R. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC): New horizons in relating dietary antioxidants/bioactives and health benefits. J of Functional Foods. 2015;18(B):797-810

+ The data for antioxidant capacity of foods generated by test-tube methods cannot be extrapolated to human effects. Clinical trials to test benefits of dietary antioxidants have produced mixed results.

*A 28g serving provides 18g of total fat, “good fats” including 2.5g of monounsaturated fat and 13g of polyunsaturated fat (of which 2.5 grams is plant-based omega-3 ALA), as well as 1.5g of saturated fat.