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Global Physician Shortage Reaches Crisis Levels – Xavier University School of Medicine Aruba Steps Up to Bridge the Gap

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Global Physician Shortage Reaches Crisis Levels – Xavier University School of Medicine Aruba Steps Up to Bridge the Gap

The world is facing a growing healthcare crisis – a severe and escalating shortage of physicians. From rural communities in India and underserved urban neighborhoods in the United States, to remote regions of Canada and beyond, healthcare systems are straining under the weight of too few medical professionals to meet increasing patient needs.

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Campus of Xaviers University School of Medicine Aruba

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global shortage of healthcare workers could reach 10 million by 2030, with developing nations facing the greatest impact. In the United States, the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a shortfall of 37,800 to 124,000 physicians by 2034, driven by population growth, an aging population, and a wave of physician retirements. Canada, known for its universal healthcare system, is experiencing increasing wait times and reduced access to primary and specialist care particularly in rural and northern regions. In India, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, there is just one doctor for every 1,456 people,

significantly below the WHO’s recommended ratio of 1:1000. Millions in rural and semi-urban areas remain underserved, with minimal access to qualified healthcare providers.

Amid this global crisis, Xavier University School of Medicine Aruba (XUSOM) is rising to meet the challenge. Dedicated to producing compassionate, skilled, and well qualified physicians, Xavier provides a comprehensive, affordable, and accessible path to medical education actively helping to address the physician shortage worldwide.

“Physician shortages are not just statistics-they affect real people in urgent need of care,” said Ravi Bhooplapur, President of XUSOM. “At Xavier, we are committed to preparing the next generation of physicians to meet these challenges head-on, wherever they practice. We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of someone’s dream to become a physician. We’ve worked hard to design a program that delivers world-class medical education at an affordable price. Through transparent tuition, scholarships, and flexible payment plans, we’re making it possible for students from around the world to pursue a career in medicine without overwhelming debt.”

Xavier’s graduates are already making a difference. Alumni have matched into competitive residency programs in the U.S. and Canada and returned to serve communities. As medical leaders, they carry Xavier’s mission of compassion, competence, and global responsibility.

“Every student we train is a future lifeline for a community in need,” said Dr. Arun Dubey, Chief Academic Officer of XUSOM. “We’re not just educating doctors we’re shaping advocates, leaders, and healers who will serve where they’re most needed.”

Graduates of XUSOM go on to practice in the U.S., Canada and other regions where their expertise is desperately needed. As the demand for healthcare professionals surges, Xavier remains committed to nurturing future doctors who are not only clinically proficient but also compassionate, community-oriented, and globally aware.

For more information about admissions and programs please visit www.xusom.com.

Elevated Dining-Elevated Flavours: Symphony of Duck and Unlimited Dim Sums at Far & East

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Elevated Dining-Elevated Flavours: Symphony of Duck and Unlimited Dim Sums at Far & East

This season, high above Bengaluru’s skyline, two delicious tales unfold at Far & East, the elegant Pan-Asian restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru. Curated by Chef Wong Chin Sheong, the hotel’s Chinese Chef, each experience reflects a journey steeped in tradition and artistry. With over two decades spent in acclaimed kitchens across Malaysia, Dubai, and India, Chef Wong brings a deeply intuitive approach to regional cuisine-where his mastery over Cantonese and Szechuan traditions is beautifully balanced with contemporary flair. From the layered, flavour-rich Symphony of Duck-a soulful homage to the beloved bird-to the Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch, an invitation to linger over delicate bites and unhurried conversations, each experience is crafted to delight. Whether drawn by the richness of culinary heritage or the joy of unhurried flavour, Far & East promises a dining experience that truly rises above.

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Chef Wong Chin Sheong, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

Symphony of Duck: This is a showcase of flavour, tradition, and technique where each dish is a dialogue between heritage and reinvention. At the heart of the menu is the classic Peking Duck, served with Chinese pancakes, cucumber, leeks, Bengaluru farm leaves, and a sweet duck sauce. Lacquered to perfection and carved tableside in a quiet, elegant ritual, it sets the tone for an experience that is both soulful and refined. The journey continues with a Cantonese-style roast duck, its richness balanced by the brightness of plum and fresh coriander, and a Thai roasted duck curry-comforting, fragrant, and gently layered with the warmth of spice and coconut. Contemporary expressions surprise and delight, from a Peking Duck sushi roll where Chinese tradition meets Japanese restraint, to a truffle-scented duck fried rice that feels both indulgent and familiar. Delicate duck potstickers, filled with spring onion, ginger, and cabbage, offer a nod to Northern Chinese street food-elevated, of course, in true Four Seasons style.

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Har Gow, Unlimited Dimsum Lunch Menu

Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch: A weekday indulgence designed for those who wish to slow down and savour, the menu pays homage to the centuries-old Cantonese art of dim sum, combining refinement with generosity. Guests can indulge in wave after wave of handcrafted dumplings-both vegetarian and non-vegetarian-served alongside carefully curated mains and light, elegant desserts. The afternoon begins with classics-steamed pork dumplings and chicken shumai, perfectly pleated and full of flavour-before making way for bolder interpretations such as Sichuan-spiced chicken or the deeply satisfying yang rou jiao. Dishes arrive gently paced, encouraging conversation and contemplation. Mains such as the delicately steamed chicken with water chestnut bring warmth and depth to the experience, while a final flourish of artisanal ice creams and sorbets provides a cool, cleansing finish.

Together, these two offerings embody the spirit of Far & East-where culinary craftsmanship, thoughtful storytelling, and a spectacular setting come together to create something truly memorable. Whether one chooses to escape for a languid afternoon or experience the artistry of duck in its most elegant forms, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru once again proves that dining here is never just a meal-it’s a moment.

Reserve: +91 76191 46006

Bajaj Finserv Launches Maha Bachat Savings Calculator; Enjoy Big Savings on Every Purchase

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Bajaj Finserv Launches Maha Bachat Savings Calculator; Enjoy Big Savings on Every Purchase

Bajaj Finserv has launched the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator, a smart tool designed to help customers save more on electronics and home appliances. Whether shopping for a new refrigerator, washing machine, or laptop, this calculator brings together all available brand, dealer, and EMI offers in one place. No more deal-hunting across websites or stores-the total savings are now just a click away.

Bajaj Finserv Launches Maha Bachat Savings Calculator; Enjoy Big Savings on Every Purchase

A smarter way to save on electronics and appliances

The Maha Bachat Savings Calculator is not just a regular calculator. It is a savings tool that combines:

  • Brand offers – Discounts given by the manufacturer (e.g., the brand Samsung offering Rs. 5,000 off on a refrigerator).

  • Dealer offers – Discounts or cashback given by the store (e.g., Bajaj Finserv partner stores like Croma or Vijay Sales offering Rs. 2,500 off).

  • EMI offers -Easy EMI plans or zero down payment offers (on select models) available with Bajaj Finserv.

So instead of searching for individual offers, customers can see their total savings in one place. They can also find the nearest partner store offering these deals.

Example of how it works

For example, for a Samsung refrigerator priced at Rs. 60,000, the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator shows how much a customer can save:

  • Brand offer: Rs. 5,000 off

  • Dealer offer (store-level discount): Rs. 2,500 off

  • EMI offer: Offers like one EMI free or reduced, making the purchase even more affordable.

This makes the total savings to be Rs. 7,500. Customers also have the added benefit of repaying the remaining amount through Easy EMIs.

Everyday examples of Maha Bachat benefits

The Maha Bachat Savings Calculator helps across many shopping needs:

  • Festive shopping: During occasions like Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi, customers can access special offers from both brands and stores such as Vijay Sales or Croma. These can be combined with Easy EMI options for greater savings.

  • Home upgrades: Couples buying appliances like washing machines can benefit from both brand deals and in-store discounts.

  • Gadget lovers: Students and professionals can enjoy better prices on laptops or smartphones by combining exchange bonuses, cashback, and Easy EMI deals.

In every case, savings can be more without giving up on quality or the comfort of easy monthly payments.

How to use the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator: A step-by-step guide

The Maha Bachat Savings Calculator on the Bajaj Finserv website is a helpful tool that makes shopping more affordable. Here is how customers can use it:

  • Visit the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator page on the Bajaj Finserv website.

  • Select the preferred product category and brand-such as mobiles, laptops, TVs, refrigerators, or air conditioners.

  • After selecting the category and brand, the customer can also set a budget.. This helps them find options that match their price range, making the decision easier.

  • Instantly view available savings, including brand offers, dealer discounts, and EMI benefits.

  • The page also shows the nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store where the product is available.

  • With over 1.5 lakh partner stores in 4,000+ cities, finding a nearby store is quick and easy.

  • Customers can then visit the selected store and choose their product.

  • Use the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan to convert the price into simple monthly payments.

  • Many products also come with a zero down payment option, making it possible to shop without paying anything upfront.

Conclusion: The future of smart savings

Bajaj Finserv has always aimed to make big purchases simple and affordable. The Maha Bachat Savings Calculator is a step in that direction, helping customers save more without doing extra work. It brings together all available offers in one place, so there’s no need to search for discounts separately. This is useful for anyone planning to buy items like TVs, washing machines, or refrigerators while staying within their budget.

The idea is clear-why spend more when you can save more With this tool, every purchase becomes smarter, and every deal becomes better.

Bajaj Finance Limited

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.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

Akums Reports Q1 FY26 with 19% YoY Adj EBITDA Growth; Achieves 1,000 DCGI Approvals

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Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd., India’s largest contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), has announced its consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. This quarter continued to display strong performance with healthy growth in Adj EBITDA and Adj PAT.

In Q1 FY26, Akums reported total income of Rs. 1,051 crore, with healthy Adj EBITDA of Rs. 156 crore reflecting a robust 19.1% year-on-year (YoY) growth. The margins improved to 14.8% from 12.7% last year a 208 bps improvement.

During this quarter, the company achieved a key milestone of reaching 1,000 Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approvals, with 27 fresh approvals in this quarter. The DCGI approvals assist the company in enhancing its product mix, building a differentiated and research-driven portfolio. Additionally, the company also received a patent for its extended-release combination formulation of Doxylamine and Pyridoxine developed using the company’s tablet in tablet technology.

As part of Akums’ strategic vision to establish itself as a leading global CDMO, the company received its first EU dossier approval for Rivaroxaban. It also filed its first dossier of Dapagliflozin combination in Switzerland. Both of these new products hold significant market potential. The commercialization of the EU contract also continues to be on track and the company will commence commercial supplies from April 2027.

Akums received 100 mn Euros as part consideration for the EU contract in Q1 this year, consequently the company is at a cash surplus of Rs. 1,518 cr. The strong liquidity position provides a robust foundation for Akums to strategically scale up its business operations through both organic growth initiatives and inorganic opportunities.

Segmental Performance Overview
Akums’ flagship business, CDMO, contributed ~79% to the group turnover with an EBITDA of 14.7% in Q1 FY 26. The company’s domestic branded formulation business segment reported ~3% YoY growth while international branded formulation business grew by ~2% YoY. Trade generics and API segment continue to be in operational loss this quarter, though, through the management efforts, the losses are gradually reducing.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director, said, “This date marks just over one year since we got listed. We continue to work towards strengthening the organization with a focus on long term growth. Our commitment to becoming a global CDMO player remains steadfast. The recent filings along with the planned global approvals of other facilities are setting up us in that endeavor.”

Mr. Sandeep Jain, Managing Director, added, “We continue to deliver strong performance despite the industry headwinds of decreasing API prices and muted volume growth. With a sustained focus on R&D, we have been able to deliver robust growth. Achieving 1,000 DCGI approvals is a key milestone that stands out Akums from its peers, allowing Akums to offer margin accretive differentiated offerings. We remain focused on strengthening our CDMO leadership, scaling high-value capabilities, and driving operational excellence. Backed by a strong pipeline and prudent capital allocation, we are well-positioned to deliver sustainable and profitable growth in the years ahead.”

Extract of Consolidated financial results

Particulars (Rs Cr) Q1 FY 26 Q4 FY 25 Q1 FY 25
Revenue 1,024 1,056 1,019
Other income 27 18 7
Total income 1,051 1,073 1,026
Cost of goods sold 582 639 596
Employee Cost 176 184 176
Other Expenses 137 139 123
Adj EBITDA 156 111 131
Adj EBITDA Margin 14.8% 10.4% 12.7%
Adj PAT 65 44 57
Adj PAT Margin 6.2% 4.1% 5.6%

Definitions

  • Adjusted EBITDA has been calculated as the sum of profit/ (loss) for the quarter, tax expenses, finance costs, depreciation and amortization expense, fair value changes to financial instruments, and exceptional items.

  • Adjusted PAT is calculated as the profit for the quarter plus fair value changes to financial instruments less tax deferred tax created on brought forward losses.

  • CDMO: Contract Development and Manufacturing Operations

  • API: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Impex Becomes First Indian Multinational Brand to Launch QLED TVs with Whale OS 10 in India

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Impex Becomes First Indian Multinational Brand to Launch QLED TVs with Whale OS 10 in India

Impex, in partnership with Whale TV – the leading independent TV OS maker – has launched its new QLED TV models powered by Whale OS 10, becoming the first brand in India to introduce smart TVs running this operating system.

The launch event, held recently at the Gokulam Convention Centre in Kochi, showcased the features and performance of the new Impex QLED Whale TV series.

The Impex team along with the Whale TV official during the launch of Impex QLED TV with Whale OS 10 at the Gokulam Park Convention Centre, Kochi, the other day

With Whale TV, Impex customers can enjoy a more personalized viewing experience, including a unique home screen for each member of the household. Whale TV makes it easy to discover and access favourite entertainment, whether its streamed online, broadcast on TV, or played through connected devices. Users can download a wide range of streaming apps from the Whale TV App Store, including Netflix, Prime Video, Jio Hotstar, and YouTube.

Viewers also have access to thousands of hours of free content via the Free TV section and Whale TV+. The integrated voice assistant, Whale AI Voice -powered by ChatGPT – enables natural, conversational interaction with the TV.

“Whale TV offers a more personal experience, with each household member getting their own home screen and personalized recommendations. Our goal is to help users find the content they love as quickly and effortlessly as possible, through intuitive discovery features. We’re excited to partner with Impex to bring these new models to Indian consumers,” said Raymond Chung, COO of Whale TV.

Impex is the first TV brand to launch Whale OS 10 in India. The initial models are available in 32″ (HD), 43″ (FHD/4K), 55″, and 65″ (4K), with prices starting at Rs. 12,990.

“We believe Whale TV will be a game changer in its segment. Our collaboration with Whale TV will bring customers a smarter, more personalized viewing experience, with features like AI-based recommendations and a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant – all at a price that delivers real value,” said Nuvais Chenengadan, Managing Director, Impex.

What sets the Impex Whale TV range apart is the exceptional value it offers. Consumers get advanced features like QLED picture quality, Dolby Audio, HDR10, and versatile HDMI connectivity – all at an affordable price.

According to company officials, the Impex Whale TV series offers ultra-smooth gaming performance and fast response times, making it ideal for action-packed content. Dolby Audio technology delivers immersive surround sound and deep bass, effectively turning the TV into a mini home theater. With HDR10 support, viewers can enjoy enhanced contrast, vibrant colors, and greater detail in both bright and dark scenes.

The launch event was attended by Mohammed Hisham C (Director), Nasiruddeen Alungal (CPO, Impex), Fairoos K (Business Head, Consumer Electronics), Mathew Philip (Division Head, Small Appliances), Asif Ali (Assistant Manager, Consumer Electronics), Joseph MJ (Production Head, LED TV), Salim AN (Sales Head, Impex), and Jagadeesh Karnataki (GM & Senior Director, R&D, Whale TV).

For more information, log into impexstore.com.

Beyond the Core: Luxury Finds a Stronghold in Emerging NCR Pockets

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Beyond the Core: Luxury Finds a Stronghold in Emerging NCR Pockets

For long, luxury housing in NCR was synonymous with legacy addresses Lutyens’ Delhi, Golf Course Road, or DLF Phase V, where prestige was tied to postcode. However, a growing wave of demand is now sweeping across emerging corridors like the Dwarka Expressway, SPR Road, Sector 150 in Noida, Siddharth Vihar in Ghaziabad, Yamuna Expressway, FNG Corridor, and Neharpar in Faridabad. These locations are on the radar of HNIs and UHNIs seeking modern living, expansive layouts, and better value. With infrastructure catching up and lifestyle aspirations evolving, luxury is moving beyond the core.

Emerging corridors reshape NCR’s luxury housing market

As per the CBRE-ASSOCHAM report, Delhi-NCR has witnessed sales of 3,960 luxury homes, each costing Rs 6 crore and above, during the January-June period, an increase of more than three times on an annual basis.

Meanwhile, according to the CREDAI and CRE Matrix Pan India report, India’s housing market witnessed a sharp surge in FY25, with tier I cities recording record-high primary housing sales worth Rs. 6,70,000 crore (US$76.53 billion), marking a 96% jump compared to FY22. Delhi NCR’s residential market, especially in Gurugram, recorded a 313% surge in sales value from FY22, touching Rs. 1,70,000 crore (US$19.42 billion). The shift towards high-value properties and sustained buyer demand underscores changing real estate investment trends across India’s top cities.

Besides, several factors are converging to drive this shift beyond the core, and infrastructure has been the biggest catalyst. Projects like the Delhi-Meerut RRTS, Dwarka Expressway, Noida International Airport, and the KMP Expressway are dramatically improving intercity and intra-city mobility, making once-overlooked locations far more accessible. This, in turn, has allowed developers to reimagine luxury living on a larger canvas.

Ishaan Singh, Director, AIPL said, “As the city grows outward, the definition of luxury is being rewritten. Luxury today is about a balance between nature, technology, and convenience. Sectors along Dwarka Expressway are being recognised for their connectivity and serene surroundings. As developers, we see the location as a blank canvas to introduce mindfully crafted luxury offerings that appeal to a new-age buyer looking beyond traditional neighbourhoods.”

Unlike older neighbourhoods constrained by legacy layouts and limited land, several new micro-markets are carving out a distinct identity within NCR’s luxury landscape. While Dwarka Expressway, with its proximity to the IGI Airport, is witnessing a surge in high-end gated townships designed for the globally mobile elite, SPR is gradually shaping into a natural extension of Golf Course Extension Road, attracting premium residential and mixed-use developments.

In Noida, Sector 150 stands out for its low-density, wellness-oriented planning. Developers like Prateek Group are redefining the sector’s luxury narrative through its luxury project Prateek Canary in the region and fulfilling the evolving requirements of homebuyers. Similarly, in Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad, the group’s premium offering responds to a growing appetite for aspirational living backed by infrastructure and accessibility.

Simultaneously, other leading developers like Pyramid and Chintamanis continue to strengthen their foothold along the Dwarka Expressway and SPR. On the other hand, KREEVA and Landmark Group are steadily building their presence with an ultra-luxury pipeline in fast-rising zones of Gurugram.

Vikas Dua, Founder & Director, Chintamanis, says, “HNIs and UHNIs are no longer bound by legacy addresses; they’re driven by lifestyle metrics. Emerging markets like Dwarka Expressway offer the right mix of liveability and future appreciation. The sentiment is shifting from buying into a brand location to buying into a future-ready lifestyle, and that’s where the opportunity lies.”

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, says, “Gurugram’s emerging micro-markets, be it along SPR, Dwarka Expressway, or sectors bordering them, are quickly stepping out of the shadow of the city’s core. These zones are no longer peripheral; they’re high-growth corridors backed by planned infrastructure, expanding social fabric, and increasing investor interest. Hence, we see these areas as the future of aspirational housing – where modern design, connectivity, and long-term appreciation converge to create next-generation investment opportunities.”

Therefore, as infrastructure expands and connectivity deepens, these micro-markets offer a rare blend of space, planning, lifestyle features, and future appreciation – elements that today’s evolved homebuyers actively seek.

Ahmedabad University Opens 24×7 Student-Managed Tinkerers’ Lab Equipped with Cutting-Edge Tools

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Ahmedabad University Opens 24×7 Student-Managed Tinkerers’ Lab Equipped with Cutting-Edge Tools

Study in engineering and applied science is inherently hands-on. Learning concepts must go hand in hand with applying them, testing them, and building real solutions. The Tinkerers Lab at Ahmedabad University offers students access to cutting-edge tools and the agency to turn their ideas into working prototypes, whether for academic coursework, entrepreneurial ventures, or national competitions. For students ready to commercialise their innovations, the Lab also provides a direct pathway to VentureStudio, the Universitys incubation hub.

Fully managed by students, the Lab offers access to cutting-edge tools and the agency to engage in hands-on making and prototyping

Launched in collaboration with the Maker Bhavan Foundation, AIA Engineering Ltd., and Arvind Composites, the Lab is open 247 and fully student-managed. It features industrial-grade equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics workstations, machine tools, hand tools, and precision measurement instruments. A variety of materials and consumables are also available, enabling students to build working solutions around the clock.

“Tinkering is not just about tools; it is about mindset. This Lab gives you the freedom to try, fail, learn, and build again. It is how real engineering happens,” said Piyush Shah, founding member of Hitachi Hi-Rel and contributor to the Maker Bhavan Foundation. “This Lab offers Ahmedabad University students another space for experiential learning, enabling them to contribute to India’s innovation story.”

The Tinkerers’ Lab is housed within Ahmedabad University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science. Students also have access to the Department of Science and Technology (DST)-supported PRAYAS Shala and a Fabrication Shop. This is further supported by strong industry linkages for live projects and internships, creating an environment where learning meets doing.

Professor Sunil Kale, Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, Ahmedabad University, said, “At Ahmedabad University, we are building an academic ecosystem that promotes active, hands-on, and experiential learning. The Tinkerers’ Lab is an important part of this ecosystem, giving students and the community at large the opportunity to engage directly with materials, tools, and technologies as they learn to engineer solutions and think creatively across disciplines.”

Damayanti Bhattacharya, CEO of Maker Bhavan Foundation, emphasised the importance of enabling such spaces across Indian campuses, “The Tinkerers’ Lab reflects our commitment to future-focused skilling and innovation. We want our students to be fearless in experimenting, deliberate in designing, and thoughtful in solving the world’s pressing challenges. This space invites them to move from consuming knowledge to creating it.”

Maker Bhavan Foundation works with Indian universities to build cutting-edge maker spaces and foster hands-on learning to develop engineers who solve real-world challenges.

The Lab will also integrate with LEAP (Learning Engineering by Activity through Projects), a programme developed by the IIT Madras Incubation Cell. LEAP will introduce immersive student workshops, faculty training, and project-based learning modules to embed hands-on engineering deeply into the curriculum.

AIA Engineering, one of Gujarat’s leading engineering companies, has extended its support to the initiative as part of its long-standing commitment to technical education and capacity building.

Arvind Composites, one of India’s leading manufacturers of fibre reinforced composites, fabricated a uniquely designed mezzanine floor at the Lab using advanced composite materials, reducing structural weight by nearly one-third compared to conventional construction.

The Lab will be open to all engineering students at Ahmedabad University starting this semester. Students can participate in LEAP boot camps, interdisciplinary build-a-thons, and ongoing mentoring programmes that focus on real-world application of engineering principles.

About Ahmedabad University

Ahmedabad University is a leading private, non-profit research university offering students a liberal education focused on interdisciplinary learning, practice orientation, and research thinking.

The University has been

  • Recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence.

  • Accredited with A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

  • Awarded Leadership and Management Team of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards Asia 2025.

  • Awarded a 5-star rating, the highest awarded in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 and 2023-24, by the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Department of Education, Government of Gujarat.

  • Awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) International Award for Excellence 2024 for our University Centre.

  • Awarded a Platinum Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for sustainability and green practices.

  • Recognised by the UGC under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, becoming one of the very few private research universities to have been awarded this recognition for select research universities.

  • Recognised as a Highly Commended University for Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2023.

  • Awarded the AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire Award 2023 for its Foundation Programme.

  • Awarded Gold Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for achieving the Green Building Standards at our University Centre.
    ​

The University, established in 2009, is rooted in the vision of one of India’s finest educational foundations, the Ahmedabad Education Society, which was founded in 1935 by nationalist leaders. Programmes at the University range from bachelors to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 13 Schools and Centres:

Amrut Mody School of Management | Bagchi School of Public Health | School of Arts and Sciences | School of Engineering and Applied Science | Ahmedabad Design Lab | Centre for Heritage Management | Centre for Inter-Asian Research | Centre for Learning Futures | Global Centre for Environment and Energy | International Centre for Space and Cosmology | Sahyog: Centre for Promoting Health | The Climate Institute | VentureStudio

An urban university, Ahmedabad promotes independent-mindedness and diversity across all dimensions of its activity and helps students mature into critical thinkers who are analytically equipped, practically oriented, and contextually aware global citizens. The University provides a contemporary educational framework that brings liberal arts, sciences, and the professions to engage together in creating new knowledge for addressing complex challenges of the society and in offering majors that merge the boundaries of disciplines to prepare students for the new economy.

Mumbai Indians extend Mighty Indians IP with 3D Webisodes and More

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Mumbai Indians extend Mighty Indians IP with 3D Webisodes and More

Mumbai Indians today announced the launch of Season 2 of Mighty Indians with an all-new slate of 20+ 3D webisodes, expanding the animated superhero universe built around the franchise’s iconic players.

L-R: Will Jacks, Deepak Chahar, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma and Trent Boult in animated Might Indians Avatar

The rich character assets and visual storytelling are translating to commercial partnerships across product categories such as toys, apparel, school supplies, publishing and collectibles. Early prototypes of merchandise have received an enthusiastic response, and formal brand collaborations are being explored.

Building on the momentum and widespread fan engagement from Season 1, the IP returns with richer storytelling, high-quality 3D animation, and deeper character arcs – all brought to life by Green Gold Animation, India’s leading animation studio and creators of Chhota Bheem.

Created by Mumbai Indians in partnership with Burman Sports, the exclusive commercial and production rights holders, and Green Gold Animation, Mighty Indians transforms star cricketers Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Deepak Chahar, Will Jacks, and Trent Boult into a team of animated superheroes, each with a unique origin story, power, and purpose.

With over 47.5 million views generated through 20+ episodes, promos, and short-form edits across formats, Mighty Indians has grown into one of the most-watched and talked-about crossover IPs in Indian sports entertainment.

To create an impact on-ground, 12-foot superhero statues of the Mighty Indians players were installed at Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 for the duration for IPL 2025, reaching over 85,000 travellers daily.

What began as an animated series has embedded itself into cricket culture. From YouTube screens to towering airport installations to merchandise, Mighty Indians is no longer just content – it’s becoming part of how fans and families experience the spirit of cricket and storytelling in a new, more imaginative way.

A Mumbai Indians Spokesperson commented, “Mighty Indians is more than an animated series – it’s an extension of our philosophy to engage fans beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. With Season 2, we are expanding this universe through immersive 3D storytelling and richer stories. It reflects the spirit of the Mumbai Indians and brings it alive in a way that resonates with young audiences and families alike.”

“This has been one of the most creatively fulfilling projects we’ve ever worked on,” said Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO of Green Gold Animation. “We’ve built some of India’s most beloved characters, but Mighty Indians gave us the chance to blend cricketing icons with mythic storytelling and create something that has both local heart and global potential.”

Shiv Burman, Founder of Burman Sports, added, “We used to watch cricket in a linear way – match days on television, and that was it. But today’s kids have countless options competing for their attention, and if we want cricket to stay relevant to them, we have to meet them where they are. Mighty Indians is our way of doing just that by combining the power of sports heroes with the universal appeal of animation. It’s a format that not only entertains but builds long-term emotional connection with the next generation of fans. We’re already working with licensing partners to create merchandise, and multiple discussions are underway with brands looking to connect with children and families by leveraging the might of Mumbai Indians through this IP.”

Mighty Indians is no longer just a piece of content. It is a platform for cricket, for imagination, and for the next generation of Indian storytelling.

Because in this universe, anyone can be mighty.

YT Link – www.youtube.com/@MumbaiIndians/videos

Mantra Best Friends Festival – Turning Friendships into Lifelong Neighbourhoods

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Mantra Best Friends Festival – Turning Friendships into Lifelong Neighbourhoods

Mantra is delighted to announce the launch of Mantra Best Friends Festival, a unique referral program designed to turn your closest friends into next-door neighbours. Whether it’s the joy of shared morning walks, evening tea conversations, or your kids growing up together, Mantra Best Friends Festival brings the warmth of friendship to the comfort of home.

Mantra Best Friends Festival – Refer friends, earn rewards, and turn friendships into next-door bonds

Launched to celebrate the spirit of community living, Mantra Best Friends Festival empowers Mantra residents to refer their friends to any Mantra project across Pune, and equally allows new buyers to reach out to a Mantra homeowner for a referral, unlocking special benefits. It’s a two-way invitation to build a close-knit neighbourhood where friends become family and every home holds shared memories. On every successful booking, the referrer (Mantra Resident) earns referral reward, while the new buyer receives exclusive benefits on their purchase.

Owning a Mantra home means more than just real estate. It’s about quality living, well- designed spaces, future-ready amenities and a thriving community. Now, imagine sharing that lifestyle with your closest friends. With Mantra Best Friends Festival, you don’t just invest in property, you invest in people.

Whether you’re a proud Mantra resident or a friend being welcomed into the fold, there’s something special waiting for you. Because the best neighbours are the ones you already call friends.

“A home is more than four walls. It’s the people around you who make it special. With Mantra BFF, we’re helping people create not just homes, but shared stories with friends who become family,” Rohit Gupta, CEO, Mantra.

Live together. Laugh louder. Grow closer. With Mantra Best Friends Festival.

For more details on the Mantra BFF program, visit www.mantraproperties.in/bff/referral-program.php

INR 50L-1Cr Homes Dominate from 2022-2024, Decision Cycles Rising – ANAROCK AI Data

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INR 50L-1Cr Homes Dominate from 2022-2024, Decision Cycles Rising – ANAROCK AI Data

  • Largest share of buyers in INR 50 lakh-1 Cr budget range – ~28% in 2022, ~32% in 2023, ~35% in 2024

  • Share of buyers in up to INR 25 lakh range declines from ~16% in 2022 to 14% in 2024, share of buyers in INR 1-2 Cr segment rising – 14% in 2022, 16% in 2023, 17% in 2024

  • Avg. days from inquiry to booking rising – 25 days in 2022, 27 days in 2023, 28 days in 2024

  • Dominant buyer age group is consistently 31-35; youngest (<25) & oldest (>45) have smallest shares of buyer pool

  • Buying sources – digital sources down from ~35% (2022) to ~30% (2024); channel partner sources rise from ~28% (2022) to ~32% (2024); offline channels rise from ~25% (2022) to ~28% (2024). Referral channels hover at ~12%

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) to real estate customer profiling has fundamentally transformed how leading property brokerages leverage technology to understand and serve their customers. ANAROCK has analysed some of its customer intelligence data from 2020 to 2024 to reveal significant shifts in buyer demographics and preferences.

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Aayush Puri, Head – ANAROCK Channel Partner & ANACITY

Aayush Puri, Head – ANAROCK Channel Partner & ANACITY, says, “Thanks to AI, it has become possible to create sophisticated ecosystems to analyse customer behaviour, predict purchasing patterns, and optimize sales strategies with unprecedented precision. Data from our proprietary AI tool ASTRA, which analyses consumer behaviour data from 2.8 million qualified leads via 74 different models, provides several interesting insights. For instance, there has been a gradual increase in homebuyers over 36 years of age, and a reduction in the 25-35 age group – with 36-40 years constituting the largest age group in 2024. We have also tracked budget range and unit configuration preferences, and conversion or days-to-booking timelines.”

The use of such AI platforms represents a paradigm shift from traditional, intuition-based real estate practices to data-driven decision making. They deliver measurable improvements in lead conversion rates, customer targeting, and overall business efficiency.

The real estate industry has historically struggled with customer profiling due to the complex, multifaceted nature of property purchasing decisions. Traditional forecasting methods often fall short in capturing the intricate relationships between property attributes, market conditions, and customer preferences. Manual lead scoring processes, heavily reliant on human judgment and fixed criteria, are prone to inconsistencies and lack the flexibility needed to adapt to rapidly changing market dynamics.

Evolving Buyer Age Distribution
The data shows a consistent shift toward older homebuyers, with the proportion of buyers under 35 decreasing significantly. In 2024, buyers aged 36-40 represented the largest segment, while the under-25 demographic fell to just 4% from 8% in 2020.

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Evolution of Home Buyer Age Groups (2020-2024)

Budget Preference Changes
“Our data shows that there has been a substantial increase in preference for homes above INR 1 crore, rising from 18% in 2023 to 32% in 2024,” says Aayush Puri. “This trend toward premium properties is particularly pronounced among buyers over 41 years of age, who are driving demand for homes in the INR 2+ crore category.”

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Home Buyer Budget Distribution Trends(2022-2024)

Conversion (Days-to-booking) Timelines
ANAROCK’s AI-enabled tracking and prediction of customer conversion timelines shows that the average days to booking increased from 25 days in 2022 to 28 days in 2024. Interestingly, luxury properties above INR 3 crores showed a reduction in conversion time to 16 days in 2024, indicating that high-value customers make decisions more quickly once engaged.

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Average Days to Booking Trend (2022-2024)

Other Findings
Buying Channels – The data shows a gradual decline in digital source (developer and property aggregator website) bookings over the last three years. On the other hand, bookings via channel partners – brokers and brokerages retained by developers to market their projects – gained higher prominence. In 2024, channel partners became particularly significant in the INR 50L-1Cr and above INR 3Cr segments.

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Channel Source Mix Trends (2022-2024)

Configuration Preferences – The analysis shows a growing preference for 3BHK units, which increased to 45% in 2024 from 38% in 2022, while 1BHK preferences declined significantly. This shift reflects changing lifestyle needs and the impact of remote work trends.

Current AI Trends in Real Estate Brokering
The real estate industry is undergoing an unprecedented technological transformation, with AI and machine learning at the forefront. Even as AI-powered predictive analytics now drive market forecasting, property valuations, and investment risk assessment, AI chatbots interact with customers, provide them with personalized property recommendations, and take them on virtual tours.

Property marketplaces enhanced with AI can match buyers to properties with 95% accuracy based on their preferences. Traditional rule-based lead scoring is being replaced by AI-driven systems that can analyse complex behavioural patterns and demographic data. AI-based lead scoring systems can improve conversion rates by 30% through personalized property recommendations.

About ANAROCK PROPERTY CONSULTANTS PVT. LTD.
ANAROCK is India’s leading independent real estate services company with a presence across India and the Middle East. The Chairman, Mr. Anuj Puri, is a highly respected industry veteran and Indias most prominent real estate thought leader.

The Company has diversified interests across the real estate lifecycle and deploys its proprietary technology platform to accelerate marketing and sales. ANAROCKs services include Residential Broking and Technology, Retail, Commercial, Investment Banking, Hospitality (via HVS ANAROCK), Land Services, Warehousing and Logistics, Investment Management, Research and Strategic Advisory & Valuations.

The Company has a unique business model, which is an amalgamation of traditional product sales supported by a modern technology platform with automated analytical and reporting tools. This offers timely solutions to its clients, while delivering financially favourable and efficient results.

ANAROCK has a team of over 2000 certified and experienced real estate professionals who operate across all major Indian (Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, NCR – Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow) and GCC markets, and within a period of two years, has successfully completed over 300 exclusive project mandates. ANAROCK also manages over 80,000 established channel partners to ensure global business coverage.

Our assurance of consistent ethical dealing with clients and partners reflects our motto – Values Over Value.

Please visit www.anarock.com.

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