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Skyscanner Hosted its First-Ever 'Snack Transit' Pop-Up in India, Taking Travellers on a Global Flavour Journey

  • Inspired by the ‘Shelf Discovery’ trend from Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2026 Report, the activation celebrated Indian travellers’ passion for exploring local supermarkets when abroad.

  • The two-day event took place in Delhi and Mumbai, drawing over 2,000 visitors who sampled 16 varieties of international snacks from around the world.

  • Through a series of fun, interactive activities, over 3,000 snacks from Japan to Mexico, valued at INR 10,00,000, were given away.

 

Leading global travel app Skyscanner brought its first-ever Snack Transit Pop-Up to India, delighting food lovers and travel enthusiasts alike in Delhi and Mumbai. This innovative food-truck-meets-convenience-store experience marked an exciting step in Skyscanner’s journey beyond the digital realm, bringing its global travel inspiration to life, through flavour and discovery.

 

Queues build at the Mumbai food truck as visitors wait to taste snacks from around the world

 

An extension of Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2026 Report, featuring its ‘Shelf Discovery’ trend, the pop-up drew on insights revealing that 79% of Indian travellers love exploring local supermarkets when abroad, as a way to experience new cuisines and cultures. By marrying India’s deep-rooted passion for food, the popularity of food trucks, and the growth of culinary exploration, Skyscanner demonstrated how snacks serve as a gateway to cultural discovery and travel inspiration.

 

Held at Select CityWalk, Delhi on 14 November and Carter Road, Mumbai on 15 November, the pop- up saw visitors enjoy a global tasting journey, sampling and collecting snacks from 16 countries, including favourites like Kit Kat Matcha, Sriracha Chilli Topaki, Tim Tam, and Coca-Cola Cherry, among others. This transformed snacking into a cross-cultural adventure that resonated with a diverse crowd, from Gen Z explorers and young professionals to families, students, and avid travellers, drawn by the blend of flavour and wanderlust.

 

From ‘Shelf Discovery’ to Street Discovery

At the core of the Skyscanner Snack Transit was a vibrant food truck where guests redeemed a complimentary snack by scanning a QR code to download the Skyscanner app and explore the Travel Trends 2026 Report. Surrounding the truck, a series of interactive zones brought the brand’s travel spirit to life, from trivia-based games like the ‘Spin Wheel’ and ‘Claw Machine’, where guests tested their travel knowledge to win additional snacks, to a Photo Booth that let visitors capture their moment of discovery with instant print souvenirs.

 

This experience was extended online as well, with guests sharing their Snack Transit moments and tagging Skyscanner on Instagram, amplifying the excitement across both cities and celebrating the intersection of food, travel, and community.

 

Reflecting on the activation, Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner, said, “The Skyscanner Snack Transit isn’t just about food; it’s about the way we travel today. Curiosity has become the new currency of travel, and what used to begin with a search bar now starts with a spark of discovery – sometimes on a supermarket shelf, sometimes in a city street. By reimagining global snacks as symbols of exploration, we wanted to show how travel inspiration can be both tangible and universal. For us at Skyscanner, this activation marks a step forward in connecting travellers to the world through inspiring real-world experiences.”

 

About Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trip with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options.

 

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they’ve seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Dr B L Gaur's Two New Books on Construction Unveiled at SGT University in Presence of Gaurs Group CMD, Sh Manoj Gaur

SGT University hosted the unveiling of two significant books authored by the eminent and widely renowned author Dr. B.L. Gaur, “Kaise Bane Vishwakarma” and “High-Rise Building Construction”. The Vice-Chancellor of SGT University formally released the books, with Gaurs Group CMD Manoj Gaur also present on the occasion.

 

Dr B L Gaur’s Two New Books on Construction Unveiled at SGT University in Presence of Gaurs Group CMD, Sh Manoj Gaur

 

The ceremony commenced with the arrival of distinguished guests, followed by a formal meet-and-greet session at the Vice-Chancellor’s office. The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr.) Atul Nasa, Pro Vice-Chancellor; Prof. (Dr.) Balwinder Kumar, Former VC, SGT University & RERA Member (UP); Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group; Padma Bhushan Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, Chancellor, SGT University; senior university officials; and a large number of students.

 

After the unveiling, Dr. B.L. Gaur addressed the gathering and elaborated on the subjects, purpose, and social and technical significance of the books. He highlighted the relevance of the publications for the construction sector and the evolving technological requirements of the future.

 

He shared that “Kaise Bane Vishwakarma” has been written with the objective of offering practical knowledge to students and engineers associated with the construction field. “High-Rise Building Construction” provides detailed insights into the technologies, standards, and safety parameters essential for modern high-rise construction, he added.

 

Following the author’s address, Manoj Gaur shared his remarks. He stated that his father’s works not only offer direction to the construction industry but also reinforce the values of quality and innovation. He further noted that the books would serve as a valuable guide for young engineers and students, adding that maintaining a balance between technology and quality is key to future development.

 

The ceremony concluded with appreciation for the insights presented in the books and their potential to enrich construction-related learning. SGT University officials and industry representatives praised Dr. B.L. Gaur’s contributions to the field and acknowledged the relevance of his work for future engineers, students, and professionals.

Balu Forge Industries Reports Strong Q2 FY26 Performance

  • EBITDA of Rs. 828 Mn in Q2 FY26, up by 27.6% YoY

  • PAT of Rs. 650 Mn in Q2 FY26, up by 35.5% YoY

 

Balu Forge Industries Ltd. (the “Company” or “BFIL”) (BSE: 531112 | NSE: BALUFORGE), a leading precision engineering and manufacturing company, has announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter and half year ended 30th September 2025.
 

Consolidated Financial Performance:

Rs. Mn

Q2 FY26

Q2 FY25

Y-o-Y (%)

Q1 FY26

Q-o-Q (%)

H1 FY26

H1 FY25

Y-o-Y

Revenue from Operations

2,995

2,229

34.4%

2,332

28.4%

5,327

3,982

33.8%

EBITDA

828

652

27.0%

723

14.6%

1,551

1,084

43.0%

EBITDA Margin%

27.6%

29.3%

(162) bps

31.0%

(335) bps

29.1%

27.2%

188 bps

PAT

650

480

35.5%

570

21.3%

1,221

807

51.3%

PAT Margin%

21.5%

21.3%

20 bps

24.3%

(280) bps

22.9%

20.2%

250 bps

EPS (Rs.)

6.08

4.55

33.6%

5.04

20.6%

10.76

7.90

40.9%


Commenting on the performance, Mr. Jaspal Singh Chandock, Chairman & Managing Director of BFIL stated:

“Revenue from Operations in Q2 FY26 was Rs 2,995 million, an increase of 34.4% year-on-year. EBITDA for the quarter was Rs 828 million, with an EBITDA margin of 27.6%, while PAT was Rs 650 million, reflecting a margin of 21.5%. For H1 FY26, Revenue from Operations was Rs 5,327 million, up 33.8% over H1 FY25, with EBITDA of Rs 1,551 million and PAT of Rs 1,261 million. This performance reflects steady execution and the continued strengthening of Balu Forge’s integrated manufacturing platform.


The greenfield facility at Hattargi, Karnataka, is advancing as planned and remains central to our ongoing expansion. The plant integrates captive forging and precision machining under one setup, improving efficiency and output. Commissioning of the 25-ton closed-die forging hammer, 8,000-ton mechanical press, and automated machining lines is progressing on schedule. When fully operational, total forging and machining capacities will increase to 150,000 tons and 80,000 tons per year, respectively.


The defence division remains a key focus. The dedicated forging and machining line for Empty Shell production, with a capacity of 360,000 shells per year is in the commercialization phase. The company has vendor approvals from leading Indian defence players and continues to add new products across artillery, armoured vehicle and engine components, strengthening its role in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.


We continue to focus on disciplined execution and capacity readiness as we scale operations across forging and machining. The Hattargi facility will strengthen our fully integrated manufacturing base and improve our ability to serve complex, high-value applications. With defence production entering the commercialization stage and capacity expansion on track, Balu Forge is positioned to drive the next phase of growth through scale, technology, and customer diversification.”

MAHE Manipal celebrates International Student's Day with Grand 'Kairos 2025' with 30+ Global Universities

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University successfully hosted ‘Kairos 2025’, its annual International Student’s Day celebration, marking a significant milestone towards fostering global academic collaboration and cultural exchange. The event was organized by the Office of International Affairs & Collaboration and centered on the theme “Empowering Students to be Agents of Change.”

 

MAHE Leaders and student representatives jointly inaugurated ‘Kairos 2025′ on International Students’ Day 


The gala event commenced with an International University Fair from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring participation from over 30 international universities. The fair offered students a detailed insight into various academic programs, scholarship opportunities, enrollment processes, and campus facilities at host universities worldwide. The event was attended by students and staff from MAHE, as well as participants from recognized colleges in Udupi, demonstrating MAHE’s commitment to community engagement. Several of MAHE’s existing collaborating universities participated in the fair, strengthening the ongoing partnerships.


The afternoon transitioned into a vibrant cultural showcase from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, where country stalls representing 20 nations were hosted by both Indian and international students from different MAHE institutions. The stalls featured students from international mobility programs, including representatives from Efrie-France, Deakin University-Australia, and Maastricht University-Netherlands, along with international faculty members at MAHE. Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, graced the occasion by visiting the stalls and interacting with participating students.


The formal launch of Kairos 2025 took place from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM, with the Lt. Gen. (Dr.)  M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor as Chief Guest and Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE as Guest of Honor. 


As a symbolic gesture celebrating international cultural diversity, all Heads of Institutions, along with student representatives from participating countries, jointly inaugurated the event. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph commemorating the multicultural spirit of MAHE.


Dr. Anup Naha, Director of International Collaborations, MAHE Manipal, commented on the event’s success “Kairos 2025 is a significance to our vision of creating global citizens who are equipped to navigate and contribute to an interconnected world. By bringing together students, universities, and cultures from across the globe, we are not only celebrating diversity but actively cultivating the collaborative mindset and cross-cultural competencies that define the leaders of tomorrow.“


The evening concluded with a few spectacular cultural performances featuring international student bodies including IAESTE, AIESEC, IPSF, and MUN, along with VSO and student teams from Tibet and Maldives. Each team presented five-minute performances aligned with the global theme of Kairos, followed by an energetic DJ program that brought together the diverse student community into grand celebrations.


The day-long celebration demonstrated MAHE’s commitment to internationalization and provided a comprehensive platform for students, faculty, and international partners to engage in meaningful dialogue about global education opportunities and cross-cultural understanding.


About Manipal Academy of Higher Education
The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life.

ACE Edit Takes Off – 300 Bespoke Studios with Retail & Club Experiences near the Airport

The Yamuna Expressway is witnessing a remarkable transformation, as visionary developments infuse the region with a contemporary urban spirit. At the forefront of this evolution, ACE Group leads with bold, design-led projects that are setting new benchmarks for integrated living and growth. Noticeably, its new mixed-use project ACE Edit in Sector 22D is just the perfect place where retail spaces, leisure zones, workspaces, and luxury residences come together in one well-planned complex. Designed for the modern jet-setter, the project redefines convenience and class.

 

ACE Edit Front View Elevation

 

With a legacy built on innovation, design excellence, timely delivery, quality craftsmanship, and customer trust, ACE Edit reimagines city life. It’s a space where urban planning, business, and leisure come together seamlessly to create a magical experience. Spread across 3.4 acres, residents can arrive in style—enjoying a premium location close to the Noida International Airport—while experiencing touchdown to luxury through 300 beautifully designed studio residences, complete with upscale retail zones and plush lounge. experiences.

Just minutes away from the new Noida International Airport, ACE Edit offers exceptional connectivity, positioning itself as the perfect choice for frequent flyers, professionals, and investors seeking premium living with long-term growth potential. It redefines mixed-use spaces with a vibrant, forward-thinking character designed to inspire. Demonstrating how modern commerce and contemporary living can coexist within a single address, ACE Edit stands as a testament to innovation and intent.

 

The space feels lively yet elegant, designed for people who appreciate luxury and the freedom of modern studio living. Each residence combines intelligent design with premium finishes, offering a perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and functionality. Open-air dining, wellness zones, and a terrace pool add a sense of calm sophistication to its contemporary architecture. Together, these elements reflect ACE Group’s forward-looking approach to design—one that keeps pace with how today’s urban residents and investors aspire to live: smart, stylish, and seamlessly connected.

 

Mr. Ajay Chaudhary, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, ACE Group said, “With the Yamuna Expressway rapidly transforming into India’s next real estate hub, ACE Edit embodies that spirit of progress—bringing together business, leisure, and community living in one inspired destination. It goes beyond architecture to create experiences that resonate and endure.”

 

The announcement follows ACE Group’s recent milestone of crossing Rs. 5,000 crore in sales from its projects along the Yamuna Expressway-a figure that reflects both the scale of its presence and growing trust of buyers and investors in the area. This milestone underlines the strong presence of the group in the region and also brings forth the growing confidence of buyers and investors.

 

Over the last couple of years, ACE Group has built one of the most comprehensive portfolios on the corridor. The portfolio of its projects on this location comprises residential projects like Ace Terra and Ace Verde to large plotted and integrated townships, namely Ace Estate, Ace Acreville, and, The Nest which is a part of Ace Verde, consisting of modern studio residences. On the commercial front, ACE Group’s flagship project, ACE YXP, showcases its unwavering focus on quality and long-term vision. Collectively, these initiatives have established ACE Group as a catalyst for transformation along the Yamuna Expressway. With projects like Ace Edit, ACE is transforming the Yamuna Expressway into a hub of high-end comfort, where luxury truly lands — offering residents a taste of Urban Living with a Runway Flair in the heart of NCR’s fastest-growing corridor

 

Located close to Noida International Airport, the Formula 1 Circuit, and the upcoming Film City, ACE Edit enjoys direct access to newest attractions and destinations of NCR. The Yamuna Expressway itself is fast changing in character, with new infrastructure and well-planned neighbourhoods giving the region fresh momentum. Seamless connectivity and a growing mix of commercial and lifestyle spaces are turning the region into a hub that attracts both domestic and global investors.

 

Under the leadership of Mr. Ajay Chaudhary, ACE Group has consistently stayed ahead of market trends, delivering projects that harmonize aesthetic excellence with enduring functionality. His unwavering commitment to timely delivery, superior construction quality, and design innovation has solidified ACE Group’s reputation as a name synonymous with trust, progress, and modern living.

 

With its expanding portfolio along the Yamuna Expressway, ACE Group continues to set new benchmarks in real estate across Delhi-NCR.

 

Website: acegroupindia.com.

Invest in India's Digital Finance Story with Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund

India’s growth journey is being powered by the rapid digitalisation of its financial system. From mobile-based payments to online lending and financial inclusion initiatives, technology is transforming how people access, use, and benefit from financial services. 

 

Be a part of India’s digital finance growth story with Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund NFO live now


The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund, an open ended equity scheme, seeks to invest in companies that are part of this evolving financial landscape. The New Fund Offer is currently live from Monday, November 10, 2025, and will close on Monday, November 24, 2025. The scheme will reopen for subscription within five business days from the date of allotment.


How UPI is driving digital payments at scale
Over the past few years, India has emerged as a leader in digital transactions. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has made sending and receiving money as simple as scanning a code. This ease of use has helped drive a sharp increase in transaction volumes and values.


UPI transaction value has grown nearly five times, from Rs. 41 trillion in FY21 to Rs. 236 trillion in FY25. What started as a convenience in cities is now a part of everyday life even in smaller towns. Non-cash transactions among Indian households are expected to rise from 38% in FY23 to 62% in FY28, showing how digital payments are becoming a preferred mode of transaction.


This shift has strengthened the digital foundation of India’s financial system, making it more inclusive, efficient, and accessible.


Source: MOFSL, Press Information Bureau, CareEdge, Mobikwik, Redseer


Digital lending expands financial access
Technology is also reshaping how credit reaches people and businesses. Digital lending platforms have opened new ways for individuals and small enterprises to borrow, often with faster processing and fewer barriers.


By FY28, Tier 2 and smaller cities are expected to contribute more than 80% of digital lending disbursements, estimated at around USD 60 billion. This shows that credit is no longer limited to metros or large institutions. The rise of fintech-led lending is helping people with limited credit history or lower credit scores gain access to funds, especially for personal loans and small business needs.


Such innovations are helping bridge long-standing credit gaps and support broader economic activity.


Source: Mobikwik RHP, Redseer, Internal; Reserve Bank of India Documents, Boston Consulting Group Report


Jan Dhan Yojana strengthens financial inclusion
While technology has driven innovation, government-led initiatives have strengthened access. The Jan Dhan Yojana is one of India’s most significant steps towards inclusive finance. Over the last decade, the number of Jan Dhan accounts has grown nearly 18 times—from 33 million in FY14 to 540 million in FY24. These accounts have accumulated deposits worth Rs. 2.3 trillion.


By connecting millions to the formal banking system, Jan Dhan has laid the foundation for direct benefit transfers. Subsidies, pensions, and other payments now reach beneficiaries directly, reducing leakages and improving efficiency.


This growth has deepened financial inclusion, ensuring that more people have access to basic financial services such as savings, credit, and insurance.


Source: Reserve Bank of India, Periodic Labour Force Survey (2023), GSMA (2023)


Fintech’s role in connecting the underserved
Fintech companies are playing an important role in making finance more inclusive. They are using data, mobile technology, and digital platforms to reach people who may not have had easy access to financial products earlier.


Fintechs have introduced innovative lending models that assess creditworthiness based on alternative data. They have higher participation among borrowers who are new to credit and among women entrepreneurs. With the growth of mobile internet and India Stack, fintech-led lending has expanded quickly, helping more people build credit histories and participate in formal finance.


By offering faster, simpler, and more customised financial solutions, fintechs are helping drive financial inclusion and consumer empowerment across India.


Source: Reserve Bank of India Documents, Boston Consulting Group Report


Investing in India’s financial megatrends
The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund invests in businesses aligned with long-term financial megatrends such as UPI adoption, digital lending growth, and financial inclusion through fintech and Jan Dhan initiatives. The fund’s portfolio* of 45–60 stocks is curated from around 180 – 200 companies that form part of India’s BFSI megatrend universe.


*The portfolio count is indicative, and actual number will depend on market conditions at the time of making investment.


By investing across banks, NBFCs, insurers, asset managers, and fintechs, it offers exposure to multiple growth drivers within India’s financial sector. For investors looking to align their portfolios with the digital transformation of India’s financial landscape, this fund may offer a suitable entry point.


Source: Mobikwik RHP, Redseer, Internal; MOFSL Report as published in April 2025


Conclusion
Digital finance is reshaping India’s economic landscape—from UPI payments to digital lending and Jan Dhan inclusion. Fintech innovation continues to expand access and efficiency, making financial services available to more people than ever before.


The Bajaj Finserv Banking and Financial Services Fund aims to offer a way to participate in these long-term shifts. By investing in companies that are part of India’s expanding digital finance ecosystem, the fund provides exposure to structural growth trends that may define the country’s financial future.


New Fund Offer Opens on: Monday, November 10, 2025
New Fund Offer Closes on: Monday, November 24, 2025
Scheme re-opens on: Within five business days of allotment date


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

Indian Author & Explorer Creates History: First Indian to Cover All 36 States and All 7 Continents

Dr. Rishi Raj, a renowned author, famous for his writings on patriotism and Travel has become a first Indian to complete a historic travel milestone by visiting all 36 states/UTs of India as well as all seven continents of the world.

 

Indian Author & Explorer Creates History- First Indian to Cover All 36 States and All 7 Continents

 

On 16th, November 2025, Dr. Rishi Raj set foot on Antarctica, the seventh continent of his journey, carrying the Indian Tricolour as a symbol of national pride and a spirit of Ek Bharat Shresth Bharat.

This achievement making him possibly the first Indian to combine such extensive travel within India with exploration across all continents.

Dr. Rishi Raj’s journey began in 1994 when he joined Indian Railways. In the early years, he travelled across most Indian states. In 2008, he completed the pilgrimage to all Jyotirlingas and the Char Dham of India. Later, in 2012, his expedition to Kailash Mansarovar opened a new chapter of global travel. Over the past 31 years, this continuous journey has brought him to this historic milestone today.

He also carried a banner urging the world to “Save Our Mother Earth,” reinforcing his commitment to environmental consciousness.

In honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth centenary, he displayed a special banner bearing the Iron Man’s photograph as a mark of deep respect for the nation’s great unifier.

Speaking from Antarctica, Dr. Rishi Raj said, “From the Himalayas to Antarctica, I carried the spirit of Bharat with me. This journey is not just about travel it is about unity, patriotism, and responsibility towards our planet. Wherever I go, India travels with me.”

Apart from his professional role at DMRC, Dr. Rishi Raj is a prolific writer, who has written more than 28 books including story books for children related to history and patriotism. He has also produced over 600 short films on patriotism and India’s cultural heritage under his channel Exploring India with Rishi.

Dr. Rishi Raj now plans to dedicate this achievement to inspire Indian youth towards patriotism, sustainable travel, and climate awareness. He is also preparing to file for recognition with leading record bodies.

About Dr. Rishi Raj
Additional General Manager (Operations), DMRC
Awarded the Rahul Sankrityayan Award by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India for his four books.
Author of multiple acclaimed travel and patriotic books
Content creator with 600+ short films under Exploring India with Rishi

Quantum CorpHealth (Quantum) Sets Sights on 300 ALS Ambulances to Transform India's Emergency Healthcare, Through Doctor911

Quantum, a doctor-led pioneer in corporate and industrial healthcare, has announced the national launch of its Doctor911 Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance network — a major step toward building India’s next-generation emergency response ecosystem. The initiative begins with a pilot deployment at Oberoi Mall, Goregaon, in collaboration with Oberoi Realty, setting the foundation for a nationwide rollout of 300 fully equipped ALS ambulances across 20 metropolitan regions over the next two years.

 

Doctor911 strengthens emergency response with the launch of its ALS ambulance at Oberoi Mall, Mumbai, led by Dr Narendra Vankar & Dr Bhavya Vankar

 

The Doctor911 ALS ambulance service ensures rapid medical assistance with a turnaround time of under 10 minutes, supported by Quantum’s emergency command system and its pan-India network of over 200 Occupational Health Centres (OHCs) across corporate, industrial, and retail environments.

 

India continues to face a significant gap in emergency ambulance availability compared to developed healthcare systems. Current estimates indicate that India operates 18,000–20,000 ambulances for a population of 1.4 billion, while the United States runs over 50,000 ambulances for just 330 million – highlighting the urgent need to expand India’s emergency-care capabilities at scale.

 

As part of its global strategy, Doctor911 is expanding into the UAE and exploring opportunities in the US, supported by MediLocker — Quantum’s secure, portable health-data layer that ensures a patient’s medical records travel with them. This allows Doctor911 to deliver seamless, informed care for employees, travellers, and NRI families across borders.

 

“Doctor911 is evolving into a global connected-care platform. With our expansion into the UAE and exploratory entry into the US, our aim is to ensure coordinated, high-quality care for Indians and NRIs wherever they are,” said Dr. Narendra Vankar, Founder & CEO, Quantum.

 

Quantum also continues to strengthen India’s workplace healthcare ecosystem — a pillar governed by the Factories Act, 1948, which mandates employers to safeguard the health, safety, and environment of workers. Corporate India increasingly recognises that “the cost of non-compliance is 10x the cost of compliance.”

 

To support this compliance-driven need, Quantum has built a cross-functional corporate health team, backed by standardised SOPs and smart digital software, converting traditional OHCs into smart clinics capable of delivering faster, more accurate, and data-backed care.

 

“For corporates, factories and large industrial operations, immediate medical readiness is critical. Through our OHC network, on-site medical teams and now ALS ambulances under Doctor911, we are elevating workforce health and emergency response. Our experienced corporate doctors also conduct all training, knowledge transfer and detailed slice-and-dice analysis of employee health data, offering deep insights into organisational wellbeing,” said Dr. Bhavya Vankar, Co-Founder & Director, Quantum.

 

Founded by Dr. Narendra Vankar and Dr. Bhavya Vankar, both MBBS, AFIH-qualified occupational health specialists, Quantum Corp today serves over 500 corporate groups across sectors. The company is distinguished by its direct medical service delivery model — delivering preventive, curative, and emergency care on-site at workplaces, supported by qualified doctors and trained medical teams.

"Future of Nudge Theory in the Smartphone Era" Highlighted at DU's Memorial Lecture for Cheistha Kochhar

The University of Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Psychology and the Cheistha Kochhar Nudge Centre, hosted the 1st Cheistha Kochhar Memorial Lecture 2025 on the theme “The Future of Nudge Theory in the World of Smartphones”. The event was held on Monday, 17th November 2025, at Shankar Lal Hall, bringing together academics, policymakers, behavioral scientists and students to honor the legacy of the late Cheistha Kochhar, a pioneering behavioural science scholar and the visionary behind India’s first Behavioural Insights Unit at NITI Aayog.

 

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/33824_cheisthakochha_image.jpeg

1st Cheistha Kochhar Memorial Lecture 2025


The event was graced by Prof. Rajni Abbi, Director of South Campus, University of Delhi, who attended as the Chief Guest, along with Prof. Urmi Nanda Biswas, Head of the Department of Psychology and Dr. Subhash Meena, Assistant Professor and Coordinator from the Department of Psychology. Their presence underscored the University’s commitment to advancing behavioural science and honoring Cheistha Kochhar’s enduring legacy.


Mr. Biju Dominic, Chief Evangelist at Fractal Analytics and Chairman of Final Mile Consulting, delivered the keynote address. Speaking about Cheistha’s contribution to behavioural science, he said, “Cheistha showed us what it means to challenge convention with courage. She chose a path few explored, bringing behavioural science and nudge theory into real-world problem solving long before it was widely understood. Her work reminds us that meaningful change often begins with small, thoughtful nudges that can shift human behaviour in profound ways. As we honour her legacy, we must carry forward her conviction that knowledge, empathy and science can illuminate society’s deepest cracks and transform them into possibilities.”


Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar, Director General, COAI and father of Cheistha Kochhar, shared a deeply emotional tribute. He said, “Speaking about Cheistha fills me with both sadness and pride — sadness that she is no longer with us and pride that her legacy continues to shine. From childhood she was compassionate, curious, fearless and deeply committed to serving others. Whether in Aadhaar, the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog or at the University of Chicago, she left a mark through her brilliance and humanity. We discovered the depth of her impact only after her passing. Our only wish now is that her legacy continues to inspire and be carried forward.”


Born out of her pioneering vision, the Cheistha Kochhar Nudge Centre at the University of Delhi aims to advance research and innovation in behavioural science, with a particular focus on how nudge theory can be applied through modern technologies such as smartphones. Cheistha believed that policymaking must be rooted in how people actually think, behave and choose, and that empathetic, evidence-based nudges can enable individuals to make better decisions for themselves and the planet.


With the scholarships and annual lectures established in her memory, Cheistha’s legacy continues to inspire young researchers, policymakers and behavioural scientists across the globe to carry forward and be recognised in her mission of creating more humane, compassionate and impactful public policy.

Epic VF 7 Road Trip Shows Indian Drivers What EV Future Could Look Like

A Vietnamese creator’s epic crossing from Asia toward Africa is giving India an early glimpse of how the VinFast VF 7 could change ordinary road travel by demonstrating how a straightforward electric car can carry itself across long distances with steady ease.

 

India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback

 

Early one October morning in Hanoi, automotive YouTuber Nguyen Thanh Hai, known to his followers as Hai Kar, packed his VinFast VF 7 and began an extraordinary journey. His plan is to drive from Vietnam to Africa, passing through thirty countries across Asia and Europe before reaching Morocco. The trip, expected to take several months, covers about fifty thousand kilometers. It is one of the first attempts by a Vietnamese driver to cross continents in a made in Vietnam electric car.

 

A car built for adaptation

Hai’s VF 7 is a standard production vehicle. Before setting off, he fitted a roof rack, rally tires and a tow cable, then added a few essentials such as charging adapters, a small generator and translation tools for unfamiliar regions. His car can travel more than four hundred kilometers on a full charge and has enough power to manage highways and mountain roads. A few weeks into the journey, he is now somewhere in China, heading west.

 

The VF 7 already attracts attention at home in Vietnam among long distance drivers. Owners who have traveled from Hanoi to Ca Mau praise its solid handling, smooth ride and consistent performance across varied terrain. Fast charging from near empty to seventy percent takes about half an hour, which turns long trips into a sequence of short breaks rather than slow, painful stops.

 

What makes Hai’s trip remarkable is how ordinary the car is. It was designed for daily life such as commuting, errands and short weekends, yet it is handling a route that stretches from Asia to Africa.

 

India’s early look at the VF 7

India has only recently welcomed the VF 7, but local reviews already show favorable feedback. One buyer in Lucknow, who is 6’4, cancelled his booking with another brand after realising the VF 7 simply felt better inside(1). Plus, both the vehicle and battery warranty is generous at 10 years or 2 lakh kilometres. He took delivery in Jaipur and drove the car home to Lucknow, and during that stretch he found the VF 7 steady at speed and easy to place when overtaking, while city crawling felt calm and predictable. “I am satisfied with the car”, he said after crossing the one thousand kilometre mark, addng that he gave it “9.5 out of 10.”

 

The VF7 arrives just as India’s charging network begins to expand for a larger EV audience. VinFast is preparing its own ecosystem alongside this, supported by partners in each key area, such as myTVS (authorised service centres), Global Assure (roadside assistance), and banks like SBI (financing for both customers and dealers). Together these pieces form a full EV ecosystem that covers finance, home and public charging, service coverage, and the other tools needed for day to day use.

 

What this means for Indian drivers

Once more chargers appear along the major national highways, long distance EV journeys will be much easier. A normal India trip such as Bengaluru to Goa or Delhi to Nainital could eventually feel as simple as Hai Kar recharging his VF 7 on his road to Africa. Drivers will stop for chai or lunch while the car picks up enough range to continue.

 

Hai’s journey continues to unfold across continents. Each update he posts is another tiny demonstration of how electric travel keeps expanding its reach. And for Indian drivers watching Hai Kar’s trip from afar, it hints at a future where a quiet, clean road trip from one state to another becomes an ordinary weekend plan rather than a brave experiment.

 

About VinFast

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

 

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

 

Learn more at:vinfastauto.in.