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Paisabazaar and Federal Bank Launch Paisaback RUPAY Credit Card with 7.5% Cashback on Grocery Spends

Paisabazaar, India’s leading fintech platform, in partnership with Federal Bank, today announced the launch of the Federal Bank Paisabazaar Paisaback Credit Card – a cashback credit card designed to offer enhanced rewards on one of the most frequent and essential household expenses – grocery shopping.

 

PaisaBack Credit Card offers 7.5% cashback on eligible online and offline grocery purchases, across leading supermarkets
 

The card was launched by Paisabazaar, Federal Bank and NPCI at the Global Fintech Festival in Mumbai. The Paisaback Credit Card offers 7.5% cashback on eligible online and offline grocery purchases, across leading supermarkets such as Reliance Fresh, DMart, Star Bazaar and Nature’s Basket, as well as quick-commerce platforms including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket.

 

The credit card would be available on the RuPay network, and offers 1% cashback on eligible POS and e-commerce transactions and 0.5% cashback on eligible UPI transactions above Rs. 2,000. Cashback is credited as Cash Points directly to the customer’s account, which can be redeemed conveniently.


The card comes with a joining and annual fee of Rs. 500, which is waived on annual spends of Rs. 1.5 lakh or more.

 

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, “Credit card rewards are most valuable when they translate into meaningful savings on expenses consumers make every month. Grocery spending is a significant and recurring expense for households, but card rewards around it have been traditionally limited. The Paisaback Credit Card makes everyday shopping more rewarding, while additional cashback on other purchases and UPI transactions enhances the value further. Our partnership with Federal Bank brings together our understanding of consumer spending behaviour to co-create a product that’s built around how consumers actually spend.”

 

Saugata Basu, Senior Vice President and Head, Retail – Cards and Personal Loans, Federal Bank, said, “At Federal Bank, we believe the most impactful financial products are those that seamlessly fit into customers’ everyday lives. The Paisaback Credit Card has been crafted to reward customers where they spend most often, particularly on essential categories such as groceries, while extending value across a broader range of everyday transactions. In partnership with Paisabazaar, we are bringing customers a proposition that is built around convenience, relevance, and meaningful savings. We believe this product will redefine how customers perceive value from their everyday spending.”

 

Key Features of Paisaback Credit Card

  • 7.5% cashback on eligible grocery purchases made online and offline at merchants such as Reliance Fresh, DMart, Star Bazaar, Nature’s Basket, Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket

  • 1% cashback on eligible POS and e-commerce spends

  • 0.5% cashback on eligible UPI transactions above Rs. 2,000, excluding grocery, fuel and travel categories

  • Cashback credited as Cash Points, with a validity of one year

  • Maximum cashback benefit of Rs. 1,000 per month across eligible transactions

  • Fuel surcharge waiver of up to Rs. 100 per billing cycle

  • Annual fee waiver on annual spends of Rs. 1.5 lakh or more

 

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s leading marketplace for financial products and a free credit score platform. Over the last 12+ years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust and goodwill of over 58 million consumers from 850 cities and towns across India. Paisabazaar has built wide and deep partnerships across the ecosystem, to offer a broad range of financial products, ranging from loans and cards to investments and savings along with bill payments and mobile recharge. The platform also enables consumers to check their free credit score from all 4 CICs (Credit Bureaus) in India. Paisabazaar is an ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Haus of Intelligence by LanceMart Crosses 1,000+ Learners in its First 12 Weeks, Emerges as Bharat's Largest Agentic AI Program

  • Over 1,000 learners enrolled for the 28-week Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program

  • Three progressive cohorts, AI Builder, AI Architect and AI Operator, bundled into a single program, for life

  • Members span ages 13 to 70+ and cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Nagpur and beyond, making it one of the widest reaching agentic AI programs in the country
     

Haus of Intelligence, an AI education technology company powered by LanceMart AI, today announced that it has crossed 1,000 enrolments in the first cohort of its Agentic AI Mastery Program. This milestone further establishes it as Bharat’s Biggest Agentic AI Program. It also reflects the growing recognition among learners across the country that Agentic AI is no longer optional knowledge, but a foundational skill for the future of work.
 

Over 1,000 learners enrolled for the 28-week Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program

The Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program is a structured 28-week regime built around three progressive cohorts, AI Builder, AI Architect and AI Operator, all included in a single enrollment priced at less than Ten thousand Rupees, paid once and accessible for life. Unlike most AI education available today, which focuses on single-tool automations such as chatbots or voice agents, HOI’s program is built around orchestrated, multi-agent AI systems, the kind of infrastructure that businesses actually need to run real operations.

Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Aryaman Upmanyu, Founder & CEO, Haus Of Intelligence, commented, “This program did not start as a business plan. It started because I kept meeting people who were terrified of being left behind by AI and had nowhere honest to go for help. Working across D2C and real estate through LanceMart, I saw firsthand how a handful of well-built AI agents could quietly replace entire teams of manual work, and I also saw how little of that knowledge was reaching ordinary people outside of tech circles. That gap is what led to Haus of Intelligence. The vision was never to teach one automation trick or one chatbot build. It was to give someone with zero technical background the same command over AI systems that a trained AI architect would have, and to do it in a way that respects their time, their age and their profession. Crossing 1,000 learners across 13 to 70 year olds, students, working professionals, business owners, tells me that vision was not just personal to me. It is a need that Bharat has been carrying quietly, waiting for someone to build the right door into it. We built that door, and this is just the beginning of walking people through it.”

Behind this milestone is an engineering core that turns the program’s vision into daily practice. Ojas Kulshrestha, Head of Engineering at LanceMart AI, and Satyam, Director of Engineering at LanceMart AI, lead the design of the very multi-agent systems that learners study inside the program, ensuring the curriculum is built on architecture that is already running in live businesses, not theory borrowed from elsewhere. Their work translates directly into how confidently HOI’s learners implement agentic AI in their own work and daily lives.

The program continues to operate on a bundled structure, where a learner enrolling in Cohort 1.0 automatically receives Cohort 2.0 and Cohort 3.0 at no additional cost, all under the single price tag. This is paired with weekly live sessions held every Saturday, where new automations are built live with the community, along with dedicated Q&A access to the HOI team.

About Haus of Intelligence

Haus of Intelligence (HOI) is an AI consultancy, automation and training company building agentic AI infrastructure for individuals and businesses across Bharat. Its flagship offering, the Agentic AI Mastery Cohort Program, is a 28-week structured regime spanning three progressive cohorts, AI Builder, AI Architect and AI Operator. The program includes 56 modules, 120+ lessons and 10+ hours of recorded content, delivered through the HOI Dashboard alongside an active community on WhatsApp and Discord. HOI’s learner base spans age 13 to 70+ across cities and states throughout the country, reflecting its mission to make agentic AI accessible to people of all ages and all professions.

About LanceMart AI

LanceMart AI is the parent AI Infrastructure company behind Haus of Intelligence, building the intelligence layer that runs entire businesses through orchestrated, multi-agent AI systems rather than single-tool automations. The company operates across two core service lines: the D2C Agent as a Service Operating System (AaaS OS), a roster of 110 specialized AI agents that run acquisition, sales, retention, and operations for direct-to-consumer brands, and the Real Estate Multi-Agent AI Infrastructure, an 11-system suite that automates lead management, client communication, and commission tracking for real estate teams and brokerages.

LanceMart AI serves lean and scaling D2C founders in India and global markets, alongside independent real estate team leads and boutique organisations in the US and UAE, giving each customer a dedicated bench of AI specialists rather than a generalist tool. Haus of Intelligence operates as LanceMart AI’s education and training arm, extending this same agentic AI infrastructure expertise into a structured learning program for individuals and businesses across Bharat.

The British School New Delhi and UCL Extend India Summer School Partnership Through 2029

The British School New Delhi and University College London (UCL) are set to take their India Summer School partnership into its next chapter, with the programme extended for a further three years through 2029. The agreement marks the continuation of a collaboration that has already brought the academic experience of one of the world’s leading universities to more than 180 pre-university students across India.
 

In Picture: Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi (L); Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost, Education and Student Experience, UCL
 

The extension was formally signed in Mumbai on 20 August 2026 by Professor Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost (Education and Student Experience), UCL, and Vanita Uppal OBE, Director of The British School New Delhi.
 

Since its inception in 2024, the UCL India Summer School has grown into a distinctive academic experience for students from across India. Hosted at The British School New Delhi, the programme brings UCL academics and pre-university students together for an immersive week of research-led teaching, high-level critical thinking and multidisciplinary learning.
 

Over the past three years, students have engaged with academics from ten UCL faculty through lectures, workshops and discussion-based learning, exploring disciplines ranging from law and psychology to technology, urban studies and sustainability. With small class sizes and direct interaction with UCL faculty, the programme gives students a rare opportunity to step beyond the school curriculum and experience the intellectual rigour and excitement of a high-quality university education.
 

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director of The British School New Delhi, said, “The UCL-TBS partnership is fuelled by our shared values and a passionate commitment to bring a stellar pre-university academic experience to students from across the country here in New Delhi. Over the last three years, I have seen first-hand the phenomenal impact the summer school has had on participating students, both in terms of the academic challenge they experienced and equally in their thorough enjoyment of the pedagogical approaches adopted by the faculty. It is a unique and thoughtfully curated opportunity and a ‘must do’ for students who are curious, academically ambitious and ready to be challenged and inspired.”
 

In picture: The 2026 cohort of the UCL India Summer School at The British School New Delhi
 

The partnership takes on added significance in 2026 as UCL celebrates its bicentenary, marking 200 years of advancing knowledge, driving innovation and expanding access to education. The Summer School reflects a shared vision between UCL and The British School New Delhi, of education that opens doors, broadens perspectives and empowers young people to engage meaningfully with the world around them.
 

Professor Jennie Shaw, Vice-Provost (Education and Student Experience), UCL, said, “The UCL India Summer School “is an opportunity for high school students from across India who are looking to apply to world-leading universities to be exposed to high-level critical thinking and research-led teaching delivered by UCL staff.”
 

With the partnership now extended to 2029, students across India will continue to have the opportunity to learn from leading academics, explore new fields of study and experience the curiosity, rigour and multidisciplinary thinking that define the UCL academic experience.
 

The next three years promise to build on an already successful partnership, creating new opportunities for young people to broaden their academic horizons and understand what their future might hold.

 

About University College London (UCL)

UCL is a global top 10 university, set up in London 200 years ago to offer education for all. Today, we gather 60,000 staff and students, from over 150 countries, to create a unique city within a city – a research and innovation powerhouse that leads the world in subjects spanning the arts, sciences, technology and the humanities. We’ve nurtured 33 Nobel Prize winners, because here, brave ideas have the scale and the support they need to succeed. We are University College London. And here, it can happen.
 

For more information, please visit ucl.ac.uk.
 

About The British School New Delhi

The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award-winning school offers high-quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. 
 

For more information, please visit www.british-school.org.

Best iPhone Deals: iPhone 17 Pro Drops to Rs. 69,990, Pro Max to Rs. 74,990; iPhone 18 Pre-Bookings Begin at Croma

Croma, India’s leading omni-channel electronics retailer from the Tata Group, have announced the pre-booking for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max is live. Customers can secure Apple’s latest devices through a flexible pre-booking offer available nationwide across Croma stores, croma.com, the Tata Neu app, and Big Basket.

 

Best iPhone offers available at your nearest Croma Store

 

The new Pro lineup brings Apple’s latest advances in performance and photography, including the powerful A20 Pro chip, Apple’s in-house C2 wireless modem and a new 48MP Fusion main camera with a physical variable aperture.

 

Pre-bookings will be available across more than 560 Croma stores in over 200 cities, as well as on croma.com, the Tata Neu app and Big Basket. For complete pricing and availability details, customers can visit their nearest Croma store or croma.com.

 

Pre-Booking Details for the iPhone 18 Pro Lineup 

  • Customers can pre-book the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone 18 Pro Max at Croma stores for Rs. 5,000. Pre-bookings through croma.com, Tata Neu and BigBasket will require full payment

  • Customer can avail an exclusive exchange bonus of up to Rs. 12,000 at Croma

 

Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and AirPods can be pre-booked at Croma stores for Rs. 2,000. Pre-bookings through croma.com, Tata Neu, and Big Basket require full payment and is going live already.    

 

iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max continue to deliver value

Exclusive Offers for iPhone 17 Pro:

iPhone 17 Pro 256 GB available in stores at Rs. 69,990* and 512 GB at Rs. 88,490*. How to get this offer:

  • Avail Rs. 4,000 bank cashback on select credit cards

  • Exchange your old iPhone15 Pro for up to Rs. 44,500 (depending on condition and model)

  • Avail Rs. 12,000* exchange bonus

 

The phone can also be availed on croma.com at Rs. 1,26,490* (256GB) and Rs. 1,45,990* (512GB) inclusive of Rs. 4,000 bank cashback starting 15th September.

 

Exclusive Offers for iPhone 17 Pro Max:

iPhone 17 Pro Max 256 GB available in stores at Rs. 74,990* and 512 GB at Rs. 94,990*. How to get this offer:

  • Avail Rs. 4,000 bank cashback on select credit cards

  • Exchange your old iPhone15 Pro Max for up to Rs. 53,000 (depending on condition and model)

  • Avail Rs. 12,000* exchange bonus

 

The phone can also be availed on croma.com at Rs. 1,39,990* (256GB) and Rs. 1,59,990* (512GB) inclusive of Rs. 4,000 bank cashback starting 15th September.

 

Commenting on the announcement, a spokesperson at Infiniti Retail Ltd. said, “A new iPhone Pro launch is always met with strong anticipation, and customers increasingly want a simple and seamless way to secure their preferred model. Through our nationwide store network and digital platforms, we are making the pre-booking journey easier, from choosing the right model to exchanging an existing device and completing the purchase. Alongside the new lineup, the continued availability of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max at compelling prices allows customers to select a Pro model that best suits their priorities and budget.”

 

For more information about the exclusive offers and to explore the full range of products, customers are encouraged to visit their nearest Croma store, or shop online at Croma.com and through the Tata Neu app. With an expansive presence of 560+ stores across 200+ cities, Croma remains committed to delivering the latest technology, unmatched service, and rewarding shopping journeys to its customers.

 

*Disclaimer: Offers are time-bound and valid only subject to eligibility, availability, and brand guidelines. NeuCoin issuance/redemption is governed by Tata Neu’s programme rules. Please check in-store or on Croma.com for the latest details.

Manipal University Jaipur Online Programmes Celebrate Sixth Convocation; 5,655 Students Awarded Degrees

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) marked another milestone in its journey towards accessible and technology-enabled higher education with the successful organisation of the Sixth Convocation Ceremony of its Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) on September 12. A total of 5,655 graduates from the MBA, BBA, MCA, BCA, MA (JMC), M.Com. and B.Com. programmes were awarded their degrees, with 903 graduates receiving their degrees in person from the dignitaries, while the remaining degrees were conferred in absentia.

 

6th Convocation of Online Degree Programs at MUJ – President Dr N N Sharma felicitates Chief Guest Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava in presence of dignitaries

 

The convocation also witnessed the participation of learners residing outside India, reflecting the expanding global reach of MUJ’s online degree programmes and the growing acceptance of flexible, digitally enabled models of higher education.

 

The ceremony was graced by Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava, Managing Director, Haver & Boecker India, as the Chief Guest, and Mr Ambrish Sinha, CEO, UNext Learning, as the Guest of Honour. The academic procession was led by the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour along with Dr N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur; Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana, Pro-President; Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar; Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar, Provost; Dr. Mallikarjuna Gadapa, Director, Centre for Distance and Online Education; Mr Dasari Nagaraju, Controller of Examinations, and members of the Academic Council.

 

The ceremony commenced with the rendition of the University Kulgeet, followed by the ceremonial welcome of the Chief Guest and other distinguished guests. In his welcome address, Commander (Dr.) Anil Rana congratulated the graduating students and highlighted the perseverance, self-discipline and resilience demonstrated by online learners. He emphasised that the success of students pursuing education through digital platforms is supported by families, faculty members and technology-enabled learning, which together help overcome geographical and professional barriers.

 

Delivering his presidential address, Dr. N. N. Sharma highlighted the University’s achievements in research, rankings, academics, SWAYAM MOOCs and sports. He underlined the importance of online degree programmes in enabling learners to gain specialised knowledge and enhance their professional competencies, thereby improving their suitability for careers across diverse sectors. He also noted that the graduating cohort represented the true spirit of lifelong learning, with students ranging in age from 19 to 78 years.

 

Addressing the graduating students, Chief Guest Mr Ashish Kumar Srivastava appreciated Manipal University Jaipur’s emphasis on combining academic learning with practical and industry-oriented education. He encouraged the graduates to continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills to remain relevant in a rapidly changing professional environment. He observed that online degree programmes offer learners the opportunity to acquire specialised knowledge while strengthening competencies required for careers across a wide range of sectors.

 

Presenting the graduating students, Dr. Mallikarjuna Gadapa, Director, CDOE, said that online education is closely aligned with the demands of the digital age. He highlighted that technology-enabled education provides learners with greater flexibility and independence while helping them become familiar with emerging technologies and develop essential digital skills.

 

The Sixth Convocation reaffirmed MUJ’s commitment to creating inclusive learning opportunities for students and working professionals seeking to pursue higher education without geographical or professional constraints. The diversity in the age and location of the graduating cohort further reflected the role of online education in supporting lifelong learning and continuous professional development.

 

Concluding the ceremony, Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar, Manipal University Jaipur, expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, distinguished guests, parents, faculty members, University management and staff for their contribution to the successful conduct of the convocation. He extended his best wishes to all the graduating students for a successful and bright future.

 

The convocation was also live-streamed through the University’s official channel, enabling students and parents who could not attend the ceremony in person to participate virtually and share in the milestone.

Kauvery Hospital Introduces Endoscopic Spinal Fusion in Chennai, Expanding Minimally Invasive Options for Disc Disease and Revision Spine Surgery

Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet has advanced its spine care programme with the successful introduction of endoscopic fusion surgery, a first-of-its-kind procedure in Chennai. The technique offers a minimally invasive alternative for selected patients who require spinal fusion but may benefit from a smaller surgical footprint than traditional open surgery or standard minimally invasive surgery (MIS).

 

Kauvery Hospital introduces Endoscopic Spinal Fusion in Chennai

 

Endoscopic fusion is spinal fusion performed through a working channel and high-definition camera inserted via an incision of about 8 mm. The surgeon decompresses the affected nerves, prepares the disc space and places an interbody implant with fixation under continuous visualisation, while aiming to preserve surrounding muscle, bone and ligaments.

 

Unlike traditional open spine surgery, which involves larger incisions and extensive muscle dissection, and standard MIS, which still requires some tissue handling with an incision of around 20 mm, the endoscopic approach is designed to reduce tissue damage, blood loss and postoperative pain, and to support faster recovery.

 

The treatment is more suitable for Degenerative lumbar conditions such as disc disease, spinal stenosis and selected low-grade instability, persistent nerve-root compression causing leg pain after adequate conservative care, revision or re-do spine surgery, where previous open surgery has left scar tissue that would be riskier to operate through again. It is also recommended for selected elderly patients for whom a long open fusion would be a heavier surgical burden.

 

“Endoscopic procedures are also used for disc herniation and nerve compression. In certain cases, they may help avoid the need for extensive fusion by preserving the spine’s natural stability. However, the suitability is decided after clinical evaluation, imaging and assessment of overall health. The technique is not suitable for all patients. High-grade slips, some complex deformities and cases that require wide open reconstruction may still need conventional surgery,” said Dr Keerthivasan P, Senior Consultant Spine and Orthopaedic Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet Chennai.

 

In appropriately selected cases, intended benefits include a smaller wound, less muscle injury, lower blood loss, less postoperative pain, earlier walking and a shorter hospital stay.

 

In a recent complex case, a 56-year-old woman who had previously undergone L4–L5 open spine surgery later developed problems at the L3–L4 and L4–L5 levels. The team used an endoscopic approach to avoid operating through scarred tissue. Blood loss was less than 50 ml. The patient walked within two hours and was discharged within two days.

 

In another case, an elderly patient with severe leg pain due to a disc problem was treated endoscopically, avoiding a major open operation that would have required long-segment fusion. The patient recovered quickly and returned to normal activity sooner than expected.

 

Dr Balamurali, Head of Department – Spine and Neurosurgery, Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet, Chennai, added, “This advancement strengthens our comprehensive spine care programme, where patient selection, precision planning and multidisciplinary coordination play a crucial role in outcomes. Endoscopic fusion is not just about smaller incisions, but about choosing the right approach for the right patient. With this technique, we are able to expand our treatment spectrum and offer personalized solutions, especially in complex and revision spine cases.”

 

Speaking on the technology, Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Hospitals said, “Our focus is to combine clinical expertise with advanced technology to deliver effective treatment while reducing the overall burden of surgery. The introduction of endoscopic fusion surgery reflects our commitment to offering less invasive options wherever appropriate.”

BRICS+ Dialogue 2026 Brings Global South Leaders Together to Advance Partnerships in Women's Leadership, Innovation, Startups and Healthcare ahead of BRICS Summit 2026

The BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI) hosted the BRICS+ Dialogue 2026 at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, New Delhi, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, diplomats, entrepreneurs, investors, academics and sectoral experts from across the BRICS+ ecosystem.

 

BRICS + Dialogue 2026

 

Held under the theme “Building Inclusive, Innovative & Resilient Pathways for the Global South,” the Dialogue took place as India holds the BRICS Presidency and focused on strengthening practical cooperation among emerging economies through business partnerships, innovation, women’s economic participation and healthcare collaboration.

 

The Dialogue was organised by BRICS CCI and powered by GrowQR.

 

Mr. Sameep Shastri, Chairman, BRICS CCI & President, BRICS CCI Young Leaders, underlined the need to move beyond dialogue towards tangible outcomes. “BRICS+ must move from dialogue to delivery—creating real partnerships, investments, technology linkages and opportunities across the Global South.”

 

Opening the proceedings, Ms. Shabana Nasim, Vice Chairperson, BRICS CCI, highlighted the importance of technology-enabled and inclusive growth. “Technology, education and women’s empowerment must work together to build truly inclusive and future-ready economies across BRICS+.”

 

In his Special Address, Mr. Atul Banshal, Vice Chairman, BRICS CCI, emphasised stronger commercial linkages across BRICS+ markets, “The next phase of BRICS+ cooperation must deepen the movement of capital, technology, talent and enterprise across our markets.”

 

The first session, “From Margins to Mainstream — Institutionalising Women’s Leadership in BRICS Innovation Ecosystems,” examined the role of women in entrepreneurship, innovation, technology and decision-making.

 

Moderated by Ms. Ruby Sinha, President, BRICS CCI WE, the session brought together distinguished voices including Mr. Sanjay Bhattacharyya, former Indian Foreign Secretary and former BRICS Sherpa; HRH Ms. Lebogang Zulu, Executive Chairperson, BRICS Women’s Business Alliance South Africa; Ms. Monica Monteiro, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Brazilian Chapter; Ms. Shadi Sedghinejad; and Ms. Yana Oseyeva.

 

Ms. Sinha said, “Women’s leadership is an economic imperative. BRICS+ must expand women’s access to capital, markets, mentorship and decision-making.”

 

HRH Ms. Zulu highlighted the importance of connecting women entrepreneurs across markets, “Economic empowerment means connecting women to capital, markets and opportunities at scale.”

 

Mr. Bhattacharyya noted, “As BRICS+ expands, its strength will depend on the quality of cooperation it creates across societies, economies and knowledge networks.”

 

Ms. Monteiro added, “Stronger cross-border networks can help women entrepreneurs turn ideas into markets, partnerships and opportunities.”

 

A key outcome of the Dialogue was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Karnataka State Marketing Communications and Advertising Limited (KSMCA) and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance South Africa under the “Screen to Market Pathway 2028” initiative. The MoU represents an effort to create practical cross-border pathways for creative talent, enterprises and market access, reinforcing the Dialogue’s focus on converting conversations into tangible collaboration.

 

The second session, “Building the BRICS+ Innovation and Startup Economy,” focused on entrepreneurship, investment, technology, digital transformation and the creation of a more connected startup ecosystem across BRICS+. Moderated by Mr. Bibin Babu, Executive Director, BRICS CCI and Founder & CEO, GrowQR, the session brought together Mr. Dmitry Khrichenko, Ms. Nokuthula Nokky Ndlovu, Mr. Mudit Kumar, Mr. Anudeep Muttavarapu, Dr. Nageswara Rao Atyam, Mr. P. Ramakrishna and Mr. Mahavir Pratap Sharma.

 

Mr. Babu said, “BRICS+ can connect founders, investors, technology ecosystems and markets, enabling innovation from the Global South to scale globally.”

 

The third session, “Health Beyond Borders — Advancing a Shared Vision for the Future,” addressed healthcare cooperation as a critical component of sustainable development. Moderated by Mr. Prann Sharma, Director General, BRICS CCI, the session brought together healthcare, policy and business leaders including Ms. Pauline Maksimovna Pavlova, Ms. Mbali Khumalo, Dr. Anoop Mirakhur, Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, Dr. Vaibhav Kapoor, Dr. Anupama Mutthige and Dr. Moumita Nandy.

 

Mr. Sharma said, “Healthcare offers BRICS+ an opportunity to combine technology, traditional knowledge and affordable delivery models to create solutions that cross borders.”

 

The Dialogue also featured a Keynote Address by Dr. Payal Bansal Kanodia, Promoter, M3M Group and Chairperson, Paralympic Committee of India. Dr. Kanodia quoted, “Inclusive growth means creating opportunities for every individual to participate, contribute and lead. Stronger partnerships across the Global South can help turn this vision into meaningful social and economic impact.”

 

The initiative was supported by GrowQR, BRICS Women Business Alliance (WBA), Dexter Energy, SABYA, SACCI, NIELIT, World People’s Assembly, ACCWs, Ideabaaz and Easy Knowledge Club.

 

The event reaffirmed BRICS CCI’s commitment to strengthening business and institutional linkages across the expanding BRICS+ community and creating platforms that move the conversation from dialogue to meaningful collaboration and action.

 

The BRICS+ Dialogue 2026 concluded with a renewed emphasis on building an ecosystem where cooperation among Global South economies translates into markets, investments, innovation, knowledge exchange and inclusive opportunities.

Meril Launches HALO Stem and Latitud Revision Cup System for Anatomical Reconstruction

Meril Life Sciences, an India-based global medtech company, has announced the dual launch of its HALO (Hybrid Asian Low Offset) Stem and the Latitud Revision Acetabular Cup System, designed to provide a complete primary-to-revision ecosystem for total hip arthroplasty (THA), with a focus on anatomical reconstruction, stable fixation and consistent implant positioning.

 

HALO (Hybrid Asian Low Offset) Stem

 

The launch of HALO Stem and the Latitud Revision Cup also reflects the growing role of Indian medical device innovation in advancing orthopaedic care. For decades, the Indian orthopaedic market relied heavily on imported Western implants, which were primarily engineered around European and North American anatomical datasets. However, Indian and Asian anatomies present distinct variations including lower femoral offsets, narrower intramedullary canals, and smaller pelvic profiles. To address this mismatch and reduce reliance on Western designs, Meril collaborated with top Indian orthopaedic surgeons to pioneer a surgeon-led approach grounded in indigenous 3D CT scan morphometric studies of local patient populations.

 

Hip replacement in India is increasingly relevant beyond the traditional perception of it being a procedure primarily associated with older adults. Avascular necrosis (AVN), developmental conditions, trauma, inflammatory arthritis and other conditions can affect younger and active individuals, making anatomical restoration and predictable outcomes important considerations in total hip arthroplasty.

 

The HALO Stem has been designed with these anatomical considerations in mind. Its geometry is intended to support anatomical reconstruction while facilitating fit, alignment and load transfer. The stem incorporates a 135° neck angle, a moderate 2.5° taper angle, ribbed geometry for rotational stability and fixation, extended ribs to support fixation and facilitate removal, a polished neck and distal tip for smoother insertion, and a blasted surface for enhanced fixation.

 

Dr Vijay C. Bose, The Director & Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon of SIMS Hospital

 

Speaking about the design philosophy behind the HALO Stem, The Director & Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon of SIMS Hospital, Dr. Vijay C. Bose, said, “The development of the HALO Stem was driven by the need to address the anatomical and surgical considerations we encounter in our patients. The objective was to create a stem that supports accurate anatomical reconstruction while providing reliable primary stability and controlled insertion. The design features have been developed with the surgeon’s requirements and the patient’s anatomy in mind, with an emphasis on consistency and predictability during total hip arthroplasty.”

 

Dr. Krishna Kiran, The Director and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon of Medicover Hospital

 

Dr. Krishna Kiran, The Director and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon of Medicover Hospital said, “Addressing complex acetabular bone loss requires high intraoperative adaptability. The Latitud Revision Cup was designed to give surgeons complete anatomical freedom allowing us to tackle challenging Paprosky defects and narrow pelvic structures with confidence, while eliminating our reliance on Western revision options.”

 

With the launch of HALO Stem and Latitud Revision Cup, Meril continues to expand its orthopaedic portfolio with solutions focused on addressing clinical and anatomical requirements relevant to Indian and Asian patient populations.

 

About Meril Life Sciences

Meril is an India-based global medical device company focused on advancing healthcare through innovation and strong R&D. It provides cutting-edge medtech solutions in over 150 countries, supported by more than 35 subsidiaries worldwide. Through partnerships, precision technology, and international quality standards, Meril is shaping the future of healthcare.

Nilkamal Sleep Enters Bigg Boss Telugu as Official Associate Sponsor

Nilkamal Sleep, the mattress brand from the leading furniture company Nilkamal Limited, has announced its association with Bigg Boss Telugu for the latest season. The partnership brings together two powerful consumer propositions, high-quality sleep and highly engaging entertainment, to create a distinctive brand integration that will see Nilkamal Sleep mattresses take center stage inside the iconic Bigg Boss house for over 100 days.
 

Nilkamal Sleep Enters Bigg Boss Telugu as Official Associate Sponsor

 

Instagram Video – www.instagram.com/reels/DdJADFwMr2-/ 
 

As part of its association with Bigg Boss Telugu, Nilkamal Sleep is supplying its Bounce Foam Orthopaedic Mattresses across all contestants’ bedrooms in the Bigg Boss house. This deep product integration positions the brand as an everyday essential in the contestants’ lives, delivering superior comfort and support while giving viewers an authentic, season-long view of the mattresses in action.
 

Nilkamal Sleep inside Bigg Boss Telugu house

 

The partnership also enables Nilkamal Sleep, one of the most loved brands in the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana region, to further deepen its connection with audiences through the massive popularity and cultural impact of Bigg Boss Telugu.
 

Nilkamal Sleep inside Bigg Boss Telugu house
 

While the Bigg Boss house is defined by high-octane drama, intense challenges, emotions, and non-stop action, Nilkamal Sleep underscores a simple truth: good days begin with good nights. Whether contestants are navigating challenges, conversations, celebrations, disagreements, or demanding tasks, quality rest is essential for recovery and readiness. Nilkamal Sleep ensures every contestant enjoys an optimal sleeping experience, helping them wake up refreshed and prepared to face whatever the house throws their way.
 

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Parekh – Joint Managing Director, Nilkamal Group said, ”We are thrilled to bring Nilkamal Sleep into the Bigg Boss Telugu house. Big entertainment demands even better rest, making this collaboration a natural fit for both the housemates and the audience.”
 

The partnership is built to go beyond conventional sponsorship visibility. With Nilkamal Sleep mattresses integrated into the contestants’ bedrooms throughout the season, the brand becomes part of the show’s natural narrative.
 

Mr. Parekh further adds, “The scale and regional connect of Bigg Boss Telugu make it an ideal platform for us to deepen awareness and strengthen brand recall in one of our key markets. We see this partnership as a unique opportunity to take the conversation around better sleep from a product proposition to an everyday cultural conversation.”
 

Nilkamal Sleep is the Mattress brand from Nilkamal Limited, offering products designed to support better rest and everyday wellbeing. The brand offers high-quality mattresses, pillows and sleep accessories, backed by a continued focus on innovation, comfort and consumer needs. With its evolving portfolio of sleep solutions, Nilkamal Sleep aims to help consumers discover products that are best suited to their individual sleep preferences and needs. The brand believes in unlocking the power of a good night’s sleep and enabling consumers to wake up refreshed, recharged and ready to embrace every new day.
 

For more information, please visit – www.nilkamalsleep.com

JAL Bath Fittings Unveils New Digital Film Featuring Wamiqa Gabbi as Brand Ambassador

JAL Bath Fittings, one of India’s leading premium bath fittings and sanitaryware brands, has launched a new digital brand film and announced acclaimed actress Wamiqa Gabbi as its official brand ambassador, marking a significant step in the brand’s journey towards strengthening its national presence and connecting with a new generation of design-conscious Indian consumers.

 

Mr. Vivek Kapoor, Director, JAL Bath Fittings (Left) Mr. Siddhant Kapoor, Director Marketing, JAL Bath Fittings(Right) with Wamiqa Gabbi at the announcement

 

Focusing on ‘Value Meets Elegance’, the new digital brand film follows Rahul and Priya, an urban, progressive working couple caught in the everyday tug-of-war between style and sensibility. Priya is the queen of experience and aesthetics, always drawn to what looks and feels the best; Rahul is the eternal value-seeker, forever weighing what’s truly worth the money. Their story plays out through a series of relatable misadventures an overpriced coffee that costs them a bomb, a sofa that promised comfort but delivered regret, and a speaker that sounded better in the store than it ever did at home. Every purchase becomes a small tug-of-war between Priya’s love for beauty and Rahul’s instinct for practicality, until their hunt finally leads them to JAL, where they discover both ‘value’ and ‘aesthetics’ for their bathroom fittings and sanitaryware. For Rahul and Priya, JAL resolves the very dilemma they have been living with proving that value and elegance don’t have to be a compromise, they can go hand in hand.

 

The digital film is live across the brand’s social media platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

YouTube – youtu.be/GKtMMcMYhnY?si=MDsHEsVqud5o78jk

 

Speaking on the announcement, Mr. Siddhant Kapoor, Director Marketing, JAL Bath Fittings, said, “Wamiqa embodies everything JAL stands for: quality, elegance, and a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to announce itself. We are thrilled to welcome her to the JAL family and look forward to building something truly meaningful together. With the launch of our new digital film, we are excited to bring this association to life and showcase the shared values of elegance, authenticity and contemporary living.”

 

The film brings together JAL’s design-led approach to contemporary living with Wamiqa’s effortless, authentic persona and strong pan-India appeal. Her understated sense of style complements JAL’s philosophy of thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and functionality, creating a natural synergy that goes beyond brand visibility to reflect a shared appreciation for simplicity, attention to detail and spaces that balance aesthetics with purpose. At its core, the film reinforces JAL’s positioning as an upper-mid segment brand that delivers aesthetically appealing, quality products while ensuring customers get genuine value for every rupee spent.

 

Mr. Vivek Kapoor, Director, JAL Bath Fittings, added, “This partnership is a reflection of where JAL is headed. We are not just growing as a brand; we are evolving the conversation around what premium bathroom design means for Indian homes. Wamiqa is the right person to be part of that story.”

 

Commenting on the association, Ms. Wamiqa Gabbi said, “I have always believed that the spaces we live in say a lot about who we are. JAL creates products that are beautiful, simple, and built to last, and that resonates deeply with me. I am genuinely proud to be associated with a brand that shares those values.”

 

This comes at a time when Indian homeowners are increasingly viewing bathrooms as an extension of their personal style, rather than purely functional spaces. Through the partnership with Wamiqa, JAL aims to strengthen its presence within this evolving lifestyle narrative, connecting premium bathroom design with the aspirations of consumers who seek modern, considered and personalised living spaces.

 

As part of the campaign, Wamiqa will feature across JAL’s brand communication spanning print and outdoor platforms, building on the narrative introduced through the new digital film. The association will enable JAL to deepen its engagement with contemporary consumers across markets while bringing its 37-year legacy of design and craftsmanship to a wider audience.

 

About JAL Bath Fittings

Founded in 1989, JAL Bath Fittings is a premium Indian bath fittings and sanitaryware brand with 37 years of expertise in quality craftsmanship and design innovation. JAL offers a comprehensive portfolio of premium bathroom and kitchen solutions that seamlessly bring together contemporary design, advanced technology, quality engineering and everyday functionality. Its extensive range spans designer faucets, sanitaryware, wellness products including Jacuzzis and bathtubs, storage water heaters, bathroom accessories, showers trusted by homeowners and professionals across India. With a legacy built on quality and design, JAL continues to evolve its offerings in line with the changing needs and aspirations of modern Indian consumers.