Life insurance has always been viewed as a safety net for families after the policyholder’s death. But as the world evolves, so must our approach to protection. Rather than just focusing on “what happens to our consumer’s families after death of the insured?” it’s time to ask: “How can we help people live longer, healthier lives?“

This shift marks a transition from reactive protection to proactive well-being. Protection today isn’t just about insuring against death—it’s about safeguarding longevity, health, and overall well-being. And this is particularly vital for India’s dynamic workforce, where the pace of life often outpaces the safety nets designed to protect us.

The Need for Customization: One Size No Longer Fits All

The reality is that protection needs change based on life stage, demographics, and personal circumstances. A young professional has vastly different needs compared to a parents with grown up children, and the challenges faced by women or NRIs are unique. Traditional, one-size-fits-all term insurance policies no longer meet the demands of today’s consumers. That’s why Tata AIA Life is leading the charge with customized solutions that adapt to the diverse needs of every individual, at every stage of life.

A New Approach to Protection: More Than Just Death Benefits

Tata AIA Life is revolutionizing what life insurance means today. Their comprehensive term insurance plans go beyond the traditional focus on post-death benefits, expanding coverage to include critical illness, health issues, and lifestyle-related conditions. These plans not only offer a safety net but actively support policyholders’ health and wellness throughout life.

Whether it’s helping young professionals stay protected against emerging health risks, or offering retirees essential health services, Tata AIA’s term plans are tailored to meet the evolving needs of policyholders as they journey through different life stages.

Sujeet Kothare, Chief of Products, Marketing, Corporate Communications, and Business Mid Office at Tata AIA Life Insurance

Health, Wellness, and Financial Security — All in One

Sujeet Kothare, Chief of Products, Marketing, Corporate Communications, and Business Mid Office at Tata AIA Life Insurance, explains: “Protection today isn’t just about what happens after death—it’s about living better, longer, and with confidence.

We’ve reimagined term insurance as a living solution that supports people at every stage of life, providing health services and wellness access through Health Buddy.”

Tata AIA’s Term Suite combines financial protection with health and wellness resources, including preventive check-ups, medical second opinions, specialist consultations, and diagnostic support. The company’s goal is to shift the conversation from payouts to prevention, helping people stay secure, healthy, and financially resilient as they pursue their aspirations.

A Tailored Term Insurance Suite for Every Consumer Segment

Tata AIA Life Insurance offers a wide range of term insurance plans, each carefully crafted to meet the unique needs of different consumer segments. These products not only offer basic life coverage but also integrate critical illness protection and health-related support to ensure holistic protection for policyholders.

1. For Growing Families: TATA AIA Shubh Family Protect

• Provides income replacement to ensure the family is financially protected in case of unexpected events.

• Ensures uninterrupted financial stability through instalment income support.

• Includes terminal illness cover to provide financial relief during critical times.

• Offers access to preventive health check-ups, diagnostics, and specialist consultations.

• Safeguards against emerging health risks and lifestyle-related conditions throughout the policy term.

2. For Young Professionals: TATA AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise

• Provides access to substantial coverage at competitive premiums.

• Offers whole life coverage up to 100 years of age.

• Allows plan enhancement with comprehensive riders for additional health and wellness benefits.

• Includes the option to defer premiums by up to 12 months with the FlexiPay Benefit.

• Features an industry-first critical illness benefit with a 30-year premium rate guarantee.

• Provides Hospi-cash Benefit with a 20-year premium rate guarantee, delivering fixed daily allowances to support hospitalization costs.

• Provides access to preventive health check-ups, diagnostics, medical second opinions, dental, physiotherapy, tele, and specialist consultations.

3. For Established Professionals & HNIs: TATA AIA Maha Raksha Supreme Select

• Provides comprehensive, high-value protection for individuals with significant financial responsibilities.

• Includes the “Life Stage Option” to increase life cover during key life events like marriage or childbirth.

• Offers a Renewability Option at Maturity to extend the policy term.

• Provides long-term, tax-efficient retirement payouts.

• Includes add-on riders for cancer coverage, waiver of premium, and accidental death/disability.

• Features a Critical Illness Benefit with a 30-year premium rate guarantee for stable pricing.

• Offers Hospi-cash Benefit with a 20-year premium rate guarantee, providing fixed daily benefits in case of hospitalization.

4. For Women Consumers: TATA AIA Shubh Shakti

• A specially crafted protection plan that empowers women at every stage of their financial and life milestones.

• Offers comprehensive life cover along with exclusive wellness benefits promoting holistic well-being.

• Provides dedicated coverage for female-specific health challenges, including discounts on vaccinations for cervical cancer.

• Ensures uninterrupted protection with a premium-waiver benefit in case of the spouse’s accidental demise.

• Delivers special premium discounts for single mothers, supporting their unique needs.

• Features a flexible premium break option during pregnancy, offering financial relief when it’s most needed.

5. For NRIs Male Consumers: TATA AIA Shubh Rakshak

• A straightforward and accessible protection plan designed to secure the future of your family back home in India.

• Provides globally accepted, rupee-denominated life cover along with wellness benefits for up to 2 family members.

• Features seamless digital onboarding, tele-medical options, and global servicing for added convenience.

• Ensures your loved ones in India stay financially protected without concerns about currency fluctuations.

• Offers special discounts for salaried customers, making protection even more affordable.

Comprehensive Protection with a Focus on Prevention

At Tata AIA, we believe true protection is holistic, encompassing both life coverage and preventive healthcare. Beyond traditional pay-outs, our term insurance solutions integrate health and wellness services to support individuals before, during, and after any health challenge:

• Preventive Care: Routine check-ups and healthy lifestyle management with our Vitality partnership, to mitigate health risks.

• Medical Second Opinions: Ensures you have all the information needed to make confident treatment choices for critical illnesses.

• Preventive Diagnostics: Early detection of health issues, reducing the likelihood of future health emergencies.

The Takeaway: Early Protection for a Confident Future

Securing term insurance early has become more important than ever. Tata AIA Life Insurance’s term plans offer protection that evolves with your needs, providing comprehensive coverage that adapts as your life progresses. Whether you’re a young professional just starting out, a parent securing your family’s future, or planning for a comfortable retirement, Tata AIA Life Insurance ensures you have the protection you need at every stage of life.

Protect today. Live with confidence. Plan for tomorrow.

Disclaimer: This product is underwritten by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. The plan is not a guaranteed issuance plan, and it will be subject to company’s underwriting and acceptance. Insurance cover is available under this product.

• TATA AIA Shubh Family Protect is a name of Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise (Non-linked, non-participating, pure risk, individual life insurance product (UIN:110N176V09) Dependent care option.

• TATA AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise is a Non-Linked, Non-Participating, pure risk, Individual Life Insurance Product (UIN:110N176V09).

• TATA AIA Maha Raksha Supreme Select is a Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Pure Risk, Individual Life Insurance Product (UIN: 110N171V13).

• TATA AIA Shubh Shakti is a combination of Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise (Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Pure Risk, Individual Life Insurance Product) UIN: 110N176V09 and Tata AIA Health Buddy (Non-Participating, Non-Linked Individual Health Product) UIN: 110N183V01. Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise and TATA Health Buddy are also available for sale individually without the combination offered/ suggested.

• TATA AIA Shubh Rakshak is a combination of Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise (Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Pure Risk, Individual Life Insurance Product) UIN:110N176V09 and Tata AIA Health Buddy (Non-Participating, Non-Linked Individual Health Product) UIN: 110N183V01. Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Promise and Tata AIA Health Buddy are also available for sale individually without the combination offered/ suggest.

About Tata AIA Life

Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited (Tata AIA) is a joint venture Company formed by Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd. and AIA Group Ltd. (AIA). Tata AIA Life combines Tata’s pre-eminent leadership position in India and AIA’s presence as the largest, independent listed pan-Asian life insurance group in the world, spanning 18 markets in the Asia Pacific region.

Tata AIA reported a total Premium Income of INR 31,484 crore for FY25, up 23% from FY24. The Company continues to rank among the Top 3 Private Insurers in Individual Weighted New Business Premium (IWNBP) with an IWNBP income of INR 8,511 crore. The Company also achieved industry-leading Persistency performance (based on premiums), ranking #1 in four out of five cohorts.

About the Tata Group 

Founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1868, the Tata group is a global enterprise, headquartered in India, comprising 30 companies across ten verticals.

The group operates in more than 100 countries across six continents, with a mission ‘To improve the quality of life of the communities we serve globally, through long-term stakeholder value creation based on Leadership with Trust’.

In 2023-24, the revenue of Tata companies, taken together, was more than $165 billion. These companies collectively employ over 1 million people.

Each Tata company or enterprise operates independently under the guidance and supervision of its own board of directors. There are 26 publicly listed Tata enterprises with a combined market capitalisation of more than $365 billion as on March 31, 2024.

About AIA

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets –wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR(3), Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR(4), and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$305 billion as of 31 December 2024.

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 43 million individual policies and 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.

Dr. Nomal Chandra Borah, Founder – GNRC Universal Health Mission and GNRC Group of Hospitals, has been honoured with two distinguished national honours — the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Academy of Neurology (IAN) and the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 by the Association of Nurse Executive (India) — recognising his transformative contributions to healthcare, neurology, nursing leadership, and community development over five decades.

Dr. Nomal Chandra Borah receiving the ANEI Lifetime Achievement Award from Ms. Loni Borpatra Gohain (Government of Assam) in the presence of Prof. Ashok Puranik (AIIMS Guwahati)

About IAN and Its Lifetime Achievement Award
The Indian Academy of Neurology, the apex national body of neurologists, is responsible for advancing neurological science, research, education, and clinical standards in India. The IAN Lifetime Achievement Award recognises neurologists who have contributed exceptionally to the growth and excellence of neurology in the country.

IAN praised Dr. Borah’s “awe-inspiring life story of grit, determination, and service,” noting how he rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most respected neurologists. The citation highlights his integrity, self-belief, and perseverance in establishing Northeast India’s first comprehensive neuroscience centre, expanding neurological services to previously unreached populations, and starting DNB Neurology training in the region.

IAN further commended his extensive research, prolific publications, and his stature as a mentor and social entrepreneur — calling his journey “monumental for the State and the Nation, and an inspiration for the younger generation to emulate.”

About ANEI and Its Lifetime Achievement Award
The Association of Nurse Executive (India) is the country’s premier professional body representing senior nursing leaders, educators, and administrators. ANEI works towards strengthening nursing governance, promoting professional excellence, and shaping policies that uplift India’s nursing workforce.

The ANEI Lifetime Achievement Award is among the highest honours in Indian nursing leadership, presented to individuals whose vision and lifelong service have deeply influenced nursing practice and healthcare delivery nationwide.

In its citation, ANEI lauded Dr. Borah as a “visionary neurologist and dedicated social reformer”, highlighting his pioneering initiatives — including GNRC Medireach, Swasthyamitra, and the Universal Health Mission — which have expanded preventive and affordable healthcare to rural and underserved populations. The association also acknowledged his role in establishing the Asian Institute of Nursing Education (2004), now a respected centre for nursing education and leadership in India. 

Dr. Borah’s Response
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Borah said, “These recognitions belong to my patients and their family members, colleagues, mentors, students, and the GNRC family. I remain committed to making healthcare more ethical, equitable, and accessible for all.”

About GNRC Hospitals
GNRC Hospitals, founded by Dr Nomal Chandra Borah in 1985, is a leading chain of tertiary care super-specialty hospitals in Assam and West Bengal, offering nearly 1,000 beds. With state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach, GNRC delivers comprehensive and compassionate healthcare. Its ground-breaking Affordable Health Mission has earned global recognition, including a Harvard School of Public Health case study and coverage in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia. GNRC’s community health initiative, Swasthyamitra, and its integrated care model have also been featured in international journals and presented at global forums such as the 8th Global Symposium on Health Systems Research (HSR 2024).

Committed to research, education, and clinical excellence, GNRC continues to shape the healthcare landscape of Northeast India.

For more, visit: www.gnrchospitals.com.

Kajaria Ceramics Ltd., India’s No.1 tile company, together with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), announced today the extension of their partnership, with Kajaria Tiles continuing as the Principal Sponsor of the RCB Women’s Team. The renewed association builds on a successful collaboration that began with the inaugural season of the Women’s T20 League in 2023.

Kajaria Tiles continues their support with RCB Women’s Team

This renewal underscores Kajaria Tiles’ long-term commitment to the growth of women’s cricket in India and its strong belief in the Women’s T20 League as a transformative platform shaping the future of women’s sport. Over the past seasons, the partnership has grown alongside the league, marked by increasing fan engagement and a strong alignment of values between the brand and the team.

Beyond brand visibility, Kajaria Tiles aims to make a meaningful contribution to the women’s cricket ecosystem by supporting initiatives that encourage grassroots talent, community participation, and wider inclusion in women’s sport.

Commenting on the renewed partnership, Mr. Rishi Kajaria, Managing Director, Kajaria Ceramics Ltd., said: “Since the launch of the Women’s T20 League, our association with the RCB Women’s Team has represented much more than a sponsorship. Women empowerment is a core value at Kajaria, and our women cricketers are true role models, inspiring not just today’s generation but every young girl who dreams big. We are proud to continue our support for the RCB Women’s Team and be part of their journey in the seasons ahead.”

The front-of-jersey sponsorship reflects Kajaria Tiles’ belief in excellence, resilience, and leadership, as well as its commitment to providing women athletes with a strong platform on one of the country’s biggest sporting stages. As the partnership continues, Kajaria will further strengthen engagement during the Women’s T20 League through high-impact digital campaigns in collaboration with the RCB Women’s Team, reinforcing the brand’s focus on inclusivity, progress, and leadership in women’s sport.

Speaking on the association, Mr. Rajesh Menon, COO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said: “Kajaria Tiles has been a valued partner of the RCB Women’s Team since the inception of the Women’s T20 League. Their continued support has contributed significantly to strengthening the women’s game. We are delighted to extend this association and look forward to deepening fan engagement together.”

Shreeyam National TMT, one of the leading TMT bar manufacturers and a trusted partner in India’s infrastructure development, is pleased to announce a major step in strengthening its corporate governance. Effective from August 2025, the company has appointed Mr. Atul Bhatt and Mr. Ashok Kumar Garg as Independent Directors. These key appointments clearly show Shreeyam National TMT’s strong commitment to adopting best-in-class governance practices and securing long-term growth.

Mr. Atul Bhatt (on the left) and Mr. Ashok Kumar Garg (on the right)

Mr. Atul Bhatt, renowned for his distinguished career in steel manufacturing, will provide the strategic insights and operational leadership needed to drive Shreeyam National TMT’s ambitious expansion. Paired with him, Mr. Ashok Kumar Garg brings his specialized expertise in financial strategy and risk management, which will be vital for strengthening the company’s governance framework and ensuring maximum value creation for the shareholders. The combined expertise of the two new Independent Directors is formidable, spanning more than five decades of senior leadership in the steel industry, financial strategy, and corporate governance.

While speaking on these appointments Mr. Vishesh Shahra, Chairman, Shreeyam National TMT, said “We are proud to welcome Mr. Bhatt and Mr. Garg to our Board of Directors. Their proven success and strategic vision fit perfectly with our growth vision. These appointments represent a leap in our company’s evolution, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to world-class governance, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. Together, we will unlock new opportunities and aim to set the benchmark for industry leadership.”

The timing of these appointments reflects Shreeyam National TMT’s proactive approach to navigating an evolving market landscape. As India’s steel sector continues to benefit from infrastructure investments and urbanization trends, the enhanced governance structure positions the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive innovation.
The independent directors will contribute to enhanced transparency, improved risk oversight, and strengthened stakeholder accountability – key pillars of the company’s governance philosophy.

About Shreeyam National TMT
For nearly two decades, Shreeyam National TMT has been synonymous with quality and innovation in steel manufacturing. Since 2005, the company is a trusted name in TMT bar production, serving infrastructure, construction, and engineering sectors across India. Committed to sustainability, operational excellence, and customer-centricity, Shreeyam National TMT continues to contribute meaningfully to India’s development narrative.

When planning investments, understanding how returns are calculated is often the first step. While markets and instruments vary widely, some investors begin by exploring basic interest concepts before moving to more complex approaches. In this context, a simple interest calculator may help you understand how returns are computed in a straightforward manner, without assumptions around compounding or reinvestment.

Breaking down basic returns through simple interest calculator

What simple interest means in financial terms

Simple interest refers to interest calculated only on the initial amount invested, also known as the principal. Unlike compounding, the interest earned does not get added back to the principal for future calculations. As a result, the growth pattern remains linear over time.

This method of calculation is often used for short-term instruments or illustrative purposes. It is not designed to reflect how most market-linked investments function, but it may help explain basic return mechanics.

How a simple interest calculator works

A simple interest calculator typically uses three inputs: the principal amount, the rate of interest, and the time. Based on these inputs, it shows the total interest earned and the final value at the end of the chosen period.

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Using a simple interest calculator may help you visualise how time and rate influence returns under a fixed structure. However, real-world investments often behave differently due to market-linked factors.

Where simple interest calculations are commonly used

Simple interest calculations are generally applied in situations where returns are predefined and time horizons are short. These may include certain deposits or lending arrangements, depending on terms and conditions.

In mutual fund investing, simple interest is not the method used to compute returns. Still, understanding it may provide a baseline for comparing how different return structures work conceptually.

Understanding limitations of simple interest models

One key limitation of simple interest is that it does not account for reinvestment of earnings. As a result, it may understate potential outcomes when compared with compounding-based approaches over longer durations.

A simple interest calculator also assumes stability in rate and tenure. Markets, however, move through cycles, and investment values may fluctuate accordingly. Treating calculator outputs as learning tools rather than decision inputs may help maintain realistic expectations.

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Using calculators as part of early-stage planning

Calculators are often used to bring structure to financial thinking. They help convert abstract ideas into numbers that are easier to interpret. A simple interest calculator may be particularly useful at an early stage, when the objective is to understand how returns are computed mathematically.

That said, calculators do not capture factors such as volatility, taxation, or changes in economic conditions. These elements may materially influence actual outcomes.

Comparing basic and market-linked return views

As investors move beyond basic concepts, they may explore tools that reflect market-linked behaviour more closely. While simple interest offers clarity, it does not mirror how mutual fund returns are generated.

At this stage, some investors refer to an investment return calculator to understand how different assumptions around time, contribution levels, and expected rates interact mathematically.
The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Using an investment return calculator alongside a simple interest calculator may help highlight the difference between linear and variable return structures, without implying certainty.

Conclusion

A simple interest calculator may serve as a foundational tool for understanding how basic return calculations work. While it does not reflect the dynamics of market-linked investments, it may help build clarity around interest mechanics and time value. As investment understanding evolves, additional tools and perspectives may be required to account for real-world complexity and uncertainty.

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

IMT Ghaziabad, a premier business school with a 45-year legacy of industry-relevant management education, is witnessing strong momentum in its ongoing placement season, driven by a strategic shift towards a role competency–based hiring framework aligned with evolving industry needs. The institute’s placement outcomes reflect a broader transformation in management hiring, where organisations are increasingly prioritising role readiness, applied skills and long-term performance over volume-driven recruitment.

Placement activity at IMT Ghaziabad has remained robust across traditional and emerging B-school recruiting sectors including banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI), consulting, IT and IT-enabled services, FMCG, investment banking, global capability centres (GCCs) and e-commerce. Recruiters have offered roles spanning strategy, management consulting, business analytics, product management, sales leadership and specialised functional profiles, underlining the relevance and industry alignment of the institute’s talent pool.

By 31 December 2025, 400 students were placed with participation from 110 companies, including 25 new recruiters. The highest cost-to-company (CTC) offered so far stands at Rs. 35.00 LPA, while the average CTC is Rs. 18.89 LPA and the median CTC is Rs. 17.56 LPA. Notably, 25% of the total offers have come through Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs), reflecting strong internship outcomes and sustained recruiter engagement.

Compensation outcomes show consistent depth across the batch, reinforcing the institute’s focus on role-aligned capability building. The top 100 offers recorded an average CTC of Rs. 24.57 LPA, while subsequent cohorts demonstrated stable compensation aligned with functional complexity and sectoral demand.

BFSI emerged as the largest recruiting sector, accounting for 24% of total offers. Leading organisations such as Aditya Birla Capital, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finserv, Care Health, CRISIL, Dezerv, Edme, Federal Bank, HDFC Ergo, HSBC Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Life and Tata Capital recruited students for roles across sales, marketing, product management, investment banking, wealth management, analytics, and risk and fraud management.

The IT and ITES sector accounted for 17% of the offers, with companies including Accenture (ATCI and AIOC), Adobe, Cisco, Genpact, IBM, MAQ Software, Polestar and Wipro Technologies offering roles in technology consulting, account management, product management, sales, operations, analytics and management trainee programs. Consulting firms contributed 12% of the offers, with recruiters such as Deloitte, KPMG, Gartner, Infosys Consulting, Fractal Analytics, Axtria and Oxane Partners hiring for consulting, strategy, analytics, credit and risk management and operations roles.

FMCG, consumer durables and pharmaceutical companies also accounted for 12% of the offers. Recruiters including AB InBev, Asian Paints, Britannia, Dabur, Dr. Reddy’s, GSK, L’Oréal, Marico, Nestlé, Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting and Zydus Wellness hired students across sales and marketing, management trainee programs, product management, strategy, finance and operations.

Investment banking roles constituted 8% of the offers, with firms such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo, BNY, Arcesium and Darashaw making offers in finance, investment banking, consulting and analytics. Global Capability Centres, also accounting for 8% of the offers, saw participation from HSBC GSC, PwC GCC, Société Générale, Macquarie, NatWest and Expedia Group, recruiting across credit and risk, finance, consulting, analytics, strategy and operations. The e-commerce sector contributed 5% of the total offers, with Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, MakeMyTrip, Policybazaar and VMock offering roles in account management, sales, marketing, product management and leadership tracks.

Commenting on the evolving placement strategy, Ms. Shailaja Sharma, Head – Placements, said, “We invited recruiters based on sectoral and functional alignment with student preferences. This year, we introduced the role competency framework to enable a seamless transition from hiring to high performance. The objective is to optimise three critical talent metrics for recruiters—Time to Recruit, Time to Deploy, and Time to Perform.”

Dr. Barnali Chaklader, Dean – Academics and Programs, highlighted the academic foundations supporting placement outcomes, stating, “Strong placements at IMT Ghaziabad are a natural outcome of rigorous academics, deep industry engagement, and the collective effort of our faculty and students. Our focus is on building the right skills, values, and confidence that organisations seek. Faculty-driven rigor, active alumni mentoring, and the institute’s legacy together create trust among recruiters. When these elements align with student commitment, strong placement outcomes follow organically.”

Contextualising the results amid broader economic conditions, Dr. Poonam Garg, Chairperson – Placements, said, “Amid a challenging macroeconomic environment, IMT’s interim placement progress reflects the institute’s legacy of academic excellence and its commitment to rigor, industry relevance, and responsible leadership. The continued confidence of our corporate partners reinforces our focus on developing future-ready professionals who create sustainable value and adapt to evolving business realities.”

Highlighting the BFSI-specific academic integration, Prof. Harsimran Sandhu, Chairperson – PGDM BFS, noted, “The Role Competency Framework bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world BFSI roles. By rigorously mapping the PGDM BFS curriculum to industry-defined competencies, we ensure that students are job-ready from day one, aligning academic depth with market relevance.”
 

Echoing the institute’s placement momentum, students expressed confidence and satisfaction with their career outcomes.

Yash Mehta said, “IMT Ghaziabad’s industry-aligned curriculum, strong faculty support, and institutional legacy enabled a confident transition into my role at Schneider Electric.” Sharing a similar sentiment, Kanishka Mathur noted, “The PGDM BFS program’s blend of theory, live projects, and structured placement support was instrumental in helping me secure a PPO with JP Morgan Chase.” Their experiences reflect the effectiveness of IMT Ghaziabad’s role competency–based approach in preparing students for high-impact roles across sectors.

Looking ahead, the next phase of rolling placements beginning January 2026 will focus on sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, healthtech, logistics and the expanding GCC ecosystem. Placements for students enrolled in international programs are being conducted through a separate, customised process, with the institute remaining optimistic about strong outcomes.

About IMT Ghaziabad

Institute of Management Technology Ghaziabad (IMT Ghaziabad), established in 1980, is India’s premier management school. IMT Ghaziabad has been set up underthe aegis of Lajpat Rai Educational Society (LES), a society duly registered under Societies Act 1860, Government of India and is among the first few schools in India to be AACSB-accredited. It has also been accredited by the South Asian Quality Assurance System (SAQS) and the PGDM programs of IMT Ghaziabad are accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA), and all its two-year PGDM programs have been granted MBA equivalence by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). IMT Ghaziabad was ranked among the Top 100 in the Financial Times Masters in Management 2024 and was #66 globally in the FT Masters in Finance 2025. It also holds the #30 position in the NIRF India Rankings 2025 (Management category), marking an impressive five-place jump. The institute offers AICTE-approved two-year management programs (PGDM Full-time, PGDM Marketing, PGDM Financial Management, PGDM Banking and Financial Services, and PGDM Dual Country Program), as well as programs for experienced professionals (PGDM ExP), and a fellow program in management (recognized as equivalent to a PhD by AIU). With a distinguished legacy of over four decades, IMT Ghaziabad has shaped students’ professional journey, actively contributing to their success in leadership roles. IMT Ghaziabad has an engaged alumni network of over 15,000 alumni worldwide who thrive as business leaders, entrepreneurs, academicians, public service leaders, and changemakers.

IMT Ghaziabad aims to achieve excellence and nurturing leadership through Knowledge, Innovation, Tech-readiness, Entrepreneurial Mindset, and Sustainability. To drive this aim, IMT Ghaziabad follows a robust, forward-looking curriculum design process, engaging experts, alums, and industry practitioners to ensure its offerings remain contemporary and globally relevant. The curriculum blends academic rigor, leadership development, design thinking, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurial thinking to cultivate a problem-solving, future-ready mindset. A pioneer in integrating sustainability and social responsibility into management education, IMT Ghaziabad’s Sustainability and Social Responsibility (SSR) initiative has been recognized in AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire, and the school is a proud UN PRME Champion.

The curriculum delivery at IMT Ghaziabad is managed by a distinguished faculty cohort that consists of experienced industry professionals and academically accomplished scholars who publish in globally reputed journals and create meaningful intellectual capital for stakeholders. For students, IMT Ghaziabad offers hands-on, future-forward learning through advanced facilities, including the Bloomberg Finance Lab, AI Clinic, and Digital Marketing Lab. Students gain global exposure through exchange programs with partner institutions in multiple countries and international internships. The institute has a diverse and inclusive campus, with around 40% of its students being female, and a vibrant culture driven by student-led clubs, committees, and events. With a strong commitment to innovation in pedagogy, meaningful research, and holistic student development, the institute is poised further to strengthen its stature as a premier business school.

Choco Up, Asia’s leading growth financing platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), today announced three strategic leadership appointments as part of its ambitious expansion across Asia-Pacific. These hires position the company to scale sustainably as a trusted financing partner within the region for the SME ecosystem.

Leadership changes span corporate strategy, risk governance, and market execution to drive hyper business growth

To date, the company has supported 1,000 SMEs across Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia. It has deployed growth capital to businesses in e-commerce, software-as-a-service, and technology-driven sectors.

With the expanded leadership structure in place, strategic planning and risk governance will be centralised. Local market execution will be strengthened to support disciplined regional scale.

Strengthening Strategy and Governance
Koichi Saito has been appointed Head of Corporate Strategy, bringing over 20 years of experience across corporate planning, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital markets, and venture building in Asia-Pacific.

As Founder and General Partner of KK Fund, a leading seed-stage VC firm focused on Southeast Asia, Mr Saito has worked closely with founders across scaling operations, entering new markets, and navigating complex cross-border environments. His earlier career includes roles at ORIX Group, private equity with George Soros’ IHG, investment banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, and venture capital at IMJ Investment Partners, where he backed category-defining startups. Across his investment career, he has led investments in more than 30 companies and advised on cross-border expansion across the region.

With the new appointment, Mr Saito will shape the company’s long-term strategy, forge strategic alliances, and drive the company’s next phase of regional dominance.

Elevating Risk as a Core Growth Function
Kitti Chiraseivinupraphand has been promoted to Chief Risk Officer as the company scales transaction volume and expands across multiple Asia-Pacific markets.

Mr Chiraseivinupraphand joined the company in 2021 as Head of Risk and brings over 20 years of experience in corporate banking risk management across Asia. Prior to joining, he held senior roles at Bangkok Bank Co. and holds an MBA from Boston College. Since joining, he has played an instrumental role in developing Choco Up’s AI-powered credit assessment framework, enabling same-day approvals while maintaining rigorous controls.

In his expanded role, Mr Chiraseivinupraphand will continue to advance risk governance and risk technology, ensuring consistency, resilience and control as operations accelerate.

Strengthening Market Execution in Australia
Bart Joanilho will take on the role of Country Head, Australia, as the company continues to deepen its presence and operating footprint in the Australian market.

He has led the Australian business since its market entry in 2023. Mr Joanilho brings over 15 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur across property, food and beverage and e-commerce, combined with deep expertise in tech ecosystem partnerships. Since spearheading Choco Up’s market entry, he has driven enormous growth to the Australian businesses through innovative go-to-market strategies and localisation efforts.

As Country Head, Mr Joanilho will continue to deepen local partnerships and oversee market execution in Australia, ensuring alignment with the company’s broader priorities.

“Koichi, Kitti, and Bart each bring experience that is important to how we operate today,” said Percy Hung, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Choco Up. “As we expand across markets, aligning strategy, risk management and local execution becomes increasingly important. This leadership structure gives us the confidence to support SMEs more effectively as we propel towards becoming the go-to financing partner for APAC’s SMEs and e-commerce merchants.”

Choco Up
Choco Up is a global technology and financial services platform that offers alternative financing and growth solutions for SMEs. With data analytics and machine learning at its core, Choco Up employs vast integrations to automate fund deployment, providing fast-growing companies with zero-equity funding in a quick and seamless manner. Choco Up has offices in Singapore and Hong Kong and serves businesses with smart-growth analytics and global payment solutions to fuel their growth.

India’s students are no longer waiting to graduate to participate in the economy they are already powering it. The Doers’ Report 2025, released by TimBuckDo, India’s largest student gig platform, reveals how over 4.5 lakh students across the country are using gig work not as pocket money, but as a critical survival and independence tool earning anywhere between Rs. 800 micro-gigs to Rs. 65,000 high-responsibility roles.

Student Gig Trends in 2025

The report, based on platform data spanning metros and fast-rising tier-2 cities, shows that the most common monthly gig earnings fall between Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 15,000, a range that closely mirrors essential student expenses such as rent, food, and commute. TimBuckDo introduces the Gig Survival Index (GSI) to quantify this shift highlighting that for many students, gig income now covers 40–100% of monthly living costs, particularly in tier-2 cities.

Geography of Gigs

Key findings from The Doers’ Report 2025 include:

• Average monthly student gig payout: Rs. 8,000

• Top earning cities: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune

• Work format split: 48% on-ground, 32% remote, 20% flexible

• High-demand roles: Telecalling, delivery, social media, event operations, AI-assisted research, and content optimisation

• Top individual earnings: Up to Rs. 1.5 lakh annually by student DOers

Commenting on the findings, Mythri Kumar, Co-founder & CEO, TimBuckDo, said, “What 2025 confirmed for us is that student gigs are no longer transitional, they are foundational. In 2026, we expect this shift to accelerate as AI-powered matchmaking, smarter work design, and deeper employer trust make student gig work faster, safer, and more predictable. Gigs will become seamlessly embedded into student life, not as an interruption to education, but as an enabler of financial independence and real-world readiness. TimBuckDo’s focus in the year ahead is scale with structure, ensuring every opportunity is backed by systems that protect, formalise, and grow student earnings.”

Adding to this, Apoorv Sharma Prasad, Co-founder & COO, TimBuckDo, said, “Opportunity alone is not enough. If student income isn’t formal, protected, and supported by the right systems, it breaks the moment life throws a challenge. In 2025, our focus shifted from just enabling gigs to building the infrastructure that makes student earnings sustainable.”

Beyond income generation, the report highlights TimBuckDo’s evolution into a full-stack student work ecosystem. In 2025, the platform enabled students to formalise income through PAN cards, secure earnings with affordable wellness and insurance coverage, and stretch income through real-world student discounts and travel partnerships.

On the employer side, the report reveals 10–50x application rates per role, repeat hiring behaviour from trusted companies, and increasing demand for large-batch student hiring across sales, delivery, events, and digital roles. Reinforcing its commitment to trust, TimBuckDo also blocked 800+ scam job listings during the year.

With India’s gig workforce expected to reach 24 million by 2030, The Doers’ Report 2025 positions students not as future contributors, but as an active workforce already shaping India’s gig economy.

About TimBuckDo

TimBuckDo is India’s leading student gig and work enablement platform, built exclusively to help students earn early, earn safely, and earn meaningfully. Powered by a nationwide community of over 4.5 lakh students, TimBuckDo connects verified employers with student talent across on-ground, remote, and flexible roles spanning sales, operations, content, events, technology, and customer support. Beyond gig discovery, the platform has evolved into a full-stack student work ecosystem enabling income formalisation through PAN cards, protection through affordable wellness and insurance solutions, and savings via exclusive student benefits and travel partnerships. By combining opportunity with infrastructure, TimBuckDo is helping build India’s next generation of financially independent, work-ready students.

Indians are increasingly replacing long, once-in-a-year astrology sittings with quick, “one question a day” check-ins that offer bite-sized clarity on work, money, and relationships. Neo Astro’s “Daily Ask 1 Question Free” feature fits directly into this new habit, turning astrology into a daily micro-guidance ritual rather than an occasional deep-dive.​
 

One question a day for astrologers
 

From Big Life Decisions to Micro-Guidance

For decades, astrology in India was reserved for big moments: marriage, property, childbirth, or starting a business. Now, urban Indians especially younger professionals are using it to navigate everyday questions like “Should I switch this job?”, “Is this the right time to propose?”, or “Will this client deal work out?”. Instead of waiting months for a formal consultation, they want quick, situation-specific clarity that feels as routine as checking the weather.​
 

This shift mirrors broader lifestyle changes. Long attention spans are shrinking, work and relationships are more fluid, and uncertainty around careers, AI, and finances has become a daily reality. In this environment, astrology is evolving from a once-in-a-while ritual into a micro-decision tool people consult in real time.​
 

The ‘One Question a Day’ Habit

The “one question a day” format converts vague faith into a structured daily habit. Users log in, frame one key doubt, and receive an answer that becomes their guiding nudge for the next 24 hours. This reduces decision fatigue; instead of overthinking ten different worries, people prioritise a single area that needs clarity whether it’s a salary negotiation, a confusing situationship, or a risky investment.​
 

It also creates a sense of emotional safety. Knowing that there is a daily space to ask “What should I focus on today?” offers reassurance to users who feel overwhelmed by constant change. Over time, these micro-check-ins act like a reflective journal, helping users connect patterns between planetary movements, their actions, and outcomes.​
 

Why Work, Love, and Money Lead the Questions

Career anxiety is one of the biggest drivers behind this micro-guidance trend. As AI and automation reshape jobs, more Indians are turning to astrologers with questions on job security, promotions, and timing of career moves. A single daily question like “Is this a good week to push for a raise?” feels less intimidating than an expensive, hour-long consultation about one’s entire professional future.​
 

Relationships are the second big theme. Questions around commitment, compatibility, and timing of marriage or breakup dominate queries, often framed as “Will this work out if I stay?” or “Is this the right time to move on?”. Money, especially in a volatile economy, forms the third pillar, with users asking about investments, debt, business openings, or cashflow timing—micro-doubts that they want resolved before acting.​
 

Neo Astro, the leading Astrology App, has positioned itself squarely in this micro-guidance culture with its “Daily Ask 1 Question Free” feature. The app invites users to sign up, claim free features, and get at least one focused question answered every day through a quick chat with an astrologer. This lowers the barrier to entry no large payments, no formal appointment, just an instant, app-based reassurance loop.​
 

The platform extends this into a broader ecosystem: free daily horoscope checks, panchang, and chat-based consultations, all available 24/7. By promising instant, personalised guidance on career, relationships, finances, and family life, Neo Astro effectively blends ancient Vedic wisdom with UX patterns users recognise from fintech, gaming, and wellness apps.​
 

Astrology as a Daily Digital Ritual

Daily horoscopes from mass platforms still exist, but personalised Q&A is now becoming the next layer, offering more specific and interactive support. Instead of passively reading “Today may be good for finances,” users are actively asking, “Should I sign this contract today?” and receiving contextual guidance based on their birth details.​
 

In doing so, astrology is being reframed as a digital ritual—checked on the phone between emails, commutes, meetings, or late-night overthinking spells. Neo Astro’s “Daily Ask 1 Question Free” doesn’t just answer doubts; it mirrors how Indians now live, decide, and seek comfort: one small question, one clear nudge, one day at a time.

Kauvery Hospital and Tamil Nadu Seniors Tennis Club successfully organised the Open Tennis Tournament for senior citizens on January 3rd and 4th at the YMCA Grounds, Nandanam, Chennai.

Tennis Tournament

The two-day tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 210 senior tennis players from Chennai and nearby regions. The matches were conducted across multiple age categories, including 45–50, 50–55, 55–60, 60–65, 65–70,70–75 and 75 above, highlighting the growing passion for competitive sport among senior citizens.

The tournament featured seven categories each in singles and doubles, offering players an excellent platform to compete, stay active, and engage socially. The matches were played in a spirited yet friendly atmosphere, reflecting the importance of physical fitness, mental well-being, and camaraderie in promoting healthy and active aging.

The awards were presented by Dr. Singaravadivelu V, Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet who graced the valedictory function. Participants expressed their appreciation for the smooth organisation and facilities provided throughout the event.

The successful conduct of the tournament reaffirmed the commitment of Tamil Nadu Open Senior Tennis Club and Kauvery Hospital towards encouraging fitness, wellness, and active lifestyles among senior citizens through sports initiatives.