Leading general insurer IFFCO TOKIO has upped its retail game by launching a bouquet of insurance products, including Home and Health insurance, to meet customers’ needs under one roof. The Comprehensive Home Protector, a home insurance policy, and Essential Health Protector, a health insurance policy, are leading company’s charge into retail insurance segment.

IFFCO TOKIO has launched a bouquet of insurance products, including Home and Health insurance, to meet customers’ needs under one roof

Comprehensive Home Protector policy has been designed as per guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), with option of fire only coverage and insured can choose other perils as add-ons which include earthquake, storm, cyclone, typhoon, tempest, hurricane, tornado, tsunami, floods, inundation, lightning, landslide, act of terrorism, riots, strikes, malicious damage, bush fire, forest fire, burglary & housebreaking etc. Policy also provides coverage for jewellery and other valuable items, artworks, breakdown of home appliances, damages to household goods while shifting, bicycle, personal accident with medical benefit, loan payment protection, baggage cover, personal and tenant liability, auto enhancement of sum insured in certain situations, data recovery expenses with various other coverages.

While, IFFCO TOKIO’s retail health insurance policy ‘Essential Health Protector‘ offers unique features, such as no upper age limit for dependents, coverage to child from the day of birth (subject to conditions), dependent parents, dependent children, brother, sister, brother-in-law, sister in-law, nephew, niece or any other relation who is dependent or relatives living together with you, apart from spouse. The other highlights of policy comes are sum insured options from INR 5 to 30 Lakh, life-long renewal (if renewed without break), high coverage at low premium, co-payment option, emergency assistance services at no additional cost if you travelling with in India up to 150 kilometers or more away from home, portability (switching from similar policy of other insurer to this policy as per IRDAI guidelines), and availability of add-ons (on payment of additional premium), such as OPD, Dental, Maternity, Consumable covers.

Commenting on the retail products, Mr.Gunasekhar Boga, Executive Director, IFFCO TOKIO General Insurance Company Limited said, “Our retail products are designed based on extensive feedback and market-research and reflect changing needs to people. With these insurance products, we want our customers to enjoy a life full of happiness and peace, as we promise them to take care of their unforeseen expenses, be it a fire accident at home or a sudden health emergency. With IFFCO TOKIO, you can feel assured and relieved while we protect your home and health.”

As someone looking to start their investment journey, one of the most common questions you’d encounter is what is suitable – stocks or mutual funds. While each of these options have their own potential benefits and risks, your choice largely depends on your financial goals, risk appetite, and where you are on your investment journey.

Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Pros and cons

On one hand, mutual funds can potentially offer diversification and professional management. On the other, stocks offer direct ownership and control. For beginners, understanding the nuances of both can help you lay a suitable foundation that helps with long-term investing.

Understanding mutual funds

Mutual funds pool money from various investors to invest in a diversified portfolio comprising stocks, bonds, or money market instruments. These funds are managed by experts known as fund managers who make investment decisions based on the scheme’s objectives. For novice investors who may not have the time or knowledge of the industry, mutual funds can offer a structured way to participate in equity or debt markets.

One of the key features of mutual funds is diversification. This helps reduce the overall risk. Since the investment is spread across securities, the impact of underperformance by a single stock or bond can be minimised. Additionally, mutual funds offer various categories based on investment objectives and risk profiles that help you mitigate risks.

Understanding stocks

When you invest in stocks, you are basically buying shares of a company, giving you direct ownership. Stock investments can potentially offer higher returns, but they also come with higher risk levels. Thus, stock prices can be volatile and challenging for beginners to navigate.

stock investing requires a good understanding of business fundamentals, market trends, and company-specific developments. For those new to investing, this can feel overwhelming, especially in the absence of professional advice. However, stocks also provide the flexibility to enter and exit positions at will and can be suitable for investors who wish to take an active role in managing their investments.

Comparing key differences

• Management: Mutual funds are professionally managed, while stock investments require self-research and decision-making.

• Diversification: Mutual funds can potentially offer automatic diversification, whereas stock portfolios need to be built manually to spread risk.

• Risk and returns: Stocks may offer higher potential returns but also higher risk. Mutual funds aim to balance risk and return, depending on the type of fund.

• Costs: Costs: Mutual funds come with expense ratios and, in some cases, exit loads. If you invest through a trading account, you will pay brokerage fees too. Stock trading does not have expense ratio but involves brokerage fees.

Factors to consider before investing

As a novice investor, the most suitable way for you to enter the world of investing would be through starting an SIP, also known as a Systematic Investment Plan. An SIP allows you to invest small amounts at regular intervals. With its power of compounding and rupee cost averaging feature, SIPs help you develop a disciplined investing habit. For those who wish to take their financial decisions independently, stock investing can be explored as a potential option.

One important factor to consider before investing is your risk appetite. If you prefer stable investments with potential for long-term growth, mutual funds might be more suitable for you. However, if you’re open to higher risk and potentially higher returns, you can explore stock investing. Although, it is important to note that you need to spend time, effort and energy to understand the stock market.

How a compound interest calculator can help

Before starting with either option, using tools like a compound interest calculator can offer useful insights. This calculator can help estimate how your money may grow over time with regular investments and compounding returns. While mutual funds do not guarantee returns, understanding the impact of compounding can help set realistic expectations and track potential progress toward financial goals.

Conclusion

There is no single answer to whether mutual funds or stocks are suitable for beginners. It depends on your financial objectives, risk comfort, and level of involvement. Mutual funds may be a suitable starting point for those looking for diversification and professional management, while stocks may suit investors seeking hands-on control. Either way, it is advisable to start with proper planning, use available calculators and tools, and consider consulting a financial advisor to determine a suitable investment approach.

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

In an attempt to change the way students transfer funds for education and living expenses abroad, Fairexpay has partnered with Acadfly, the study-abroad program of PhysicsWallah. This partnership will try to digitalise the remittance journey to make international money transfers easier and cost-effective for students and their families.

About PhysicsWallah (PW)

PhysicsWallah (PW), an education platform, was founded in 2020 by Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari. Headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, PW aims to democratize education through online, offline and hybrid platforms. Initially launched as a YouTube channel in 2016, PW now offers education to students through its YouTube channels, including vernacular languages. PW aims to create a hybrid education ecosystem in the country by establishing tech-enabled offline and hybrid centres in cities nationwide. PW’s offerings span various educational segments, including test preparation, a skilling vertical, higher education, and education abroad. PW has raised funding from investors, including Hornbill Capital, Lightspeed Ventures, Westbridge and GSV Ventures.

Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and official partner of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, is lighting up the world’s biggest sporting arenas with its bold pitch-side message “HISENSE 100″ TV, GLOBAL No.1.” The message, prominently displayed across FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ stadiums, highlights Hisense’s leadership in large-screen and MiniLED display technologies.

Hisense and FIFA World Cup 2025

According to Omdia Q1 2025 data, Hisense ranks No.1 globally in 100-inch and above TVs (56.7%) and MiniLED TVs (29.3%), validating its dominance in the premium TV category. The brand has maintained its leadership in the 100″+ TV segment consistently across 2023, 2024, and Q1 2025.

As the Official Partner of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, Hisense is leveraging the global stage to deepen its emotional connection with fans and enhance brand visibility. In line with this global momentum and its commitment to sports and entertainment enthusiasts in India, Hisense has also launched its latest smart TVs -U7Q Mini-LED and E7Q Pro.

“We are proud to bring the energy of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ and the excitement of global football fever into Indian homes. With AI-powered picture processing, premium gaming-centric features, and immersive display technologies, we’re delivering a stadium-like experience that resonates with sports lovers and families alike,” said Mr. Pankaj Rana, CEO, Hisense India.

Hisense India continues to invest in long-term growth. Its product portfolio includes TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and more. The brand is also building strong retail partnerships across the country.

About Hisense India

Hisense India is a subsidiary of Hisense Group, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances. With a presence in over 160 countries, Hisense is known for its innovation, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality products spanning televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and more.

Globally, Hisense holds the No.1 position in the 100″ TV category (Source: Omdia 2023-24). Committed to delivering exceptional value and world-class experiences, the brand is focused on product innovation and manufacturing, robust retail partnerships, and long-term growth in the market.

For more information, please visit: www.hisenseindia.com.

In the quiet lanes of Haveri and the bustling neighborhoods of Dharavi and Kalyan, an inspiring story of transformation is taking shape. Rooted in the vision of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a revered humanitarian and spiritual leader, The Art of Living – through its Social Projects arm and in collaboration with Ashirvad Pipes by Aliaxis – is enabling hundreds of young women from underserved communities with practical skills and helping them step boldly into their future.

Soft skills, strong squad

From 2024 to 2025, this transformative initiative has trained 375 women across Karnataka and Maharashtra – reaching those from underserved communities with little to no access to such opportunities.

What makes this initiative remarkable isn’t just the curriculum – it’s the confidence it instills.

At the core of the initiative is the Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) – a game changing blend of ancient wisdom and modern tools. Through Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, and meditation, participants develop inner resilience and emotional strength. These practices are complemented by interactive sessions on leadership, communication, and confidence-building, nurturing both personal growth and community awareness.

Jayashree Koppad finds independence through a telecalling job

In addition to inner transformation, the programme offers practical, job-oriented training in spoken English, basic computer literacy, Tally accounting software, and customer service. This integrated approach equips women with the mindset and competencies needed to step into roles such as office assistants, front desk executives, and customer service representatives, setting them firmly on the path to economic independence.

Stories of Change: Voices from the Ground

Vidyashree Nyamati

A diploma holder and mother of two, Vidyashree once set aside her career dreams for family responsibilities. Yet her determination never faded. Walking 15 kilometres daily to attend the centre, she embraced every opportunity the programme offered. Today, she leads as the Centre Coordinator in Haveri, a role she earned through grit and grace.

“I still remember buying myself a new dress with my first salary, just in time for Eid,” she shared with a smile. “It was a proud moment for me and my family.”

Jayashree Koppad
After completing the programme, Jayashree began working part-time as a Telecaller at BMS Electronics. With her income, she now supports her education while easing the financial burden on her parents, marking her first step toward independence.

Salma Bidari
Salma, once held back by family restrictions, is now a Computer Operator and Receptionist. Her first salary brought tears of joy to her mother and shifted her family’s perspective – from hesitation to pride and respect.

Saniya Hosmani
Now working at a Dish TV office, Saniya serves customers with grace and confidence. “I am living a dream right now,” Saniya says. For the first time, she bought Eid gifts for her family – a moment of joy she described as “beyond words.”

Meenakshi
At Mahaveer Automobiles, Meenakshi handles the front desk with quiet efficiency and reliability. Her role has not only brought financial stability to her home but also made her a pillar of strength for her family.

Behind the scenes, facilitators like Savitri Amma nurtured the womens journeys. “These girls arrive shy and hesitant. Within months, they’re speaking up, leading groups, and dreaming bigger,” she says. “It’s been a joy to witness.”

To ensure long-term success, the women received prestigious certifications from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Ashirvad Pipes, and Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (SSRDP) – an NSDC approved training partner. The results have been heartening: 202 women have received job offers, and all 375 have received dedicated placement assistance.

Project Coordinator Ketki Vaidya captures the spirit of the mission: “We’re not just teaching skills here. We’re building a generation of women who believe in themselves. They’re no longer just students – they’re leaders.“

This initiative exemplifies what’s possible through holistic training, community engagement, and a deep belief in human potential. It also reflects the strength of corporate collaboration in delivering measurable social impact. Equally essential has been local support. Community leaders like Bharathi Jambigi have helped ensure participant safety and encouragement throughout the journey.

With more centres planned across India, this movement is not just transforming individual lives – it’s setting in motion a ripple of change that uplifts families and transforms communities

And this is just the beginning.

About The Art of Living Social Projects – SSRDP

Sri Sri Rural Development Program (SSRDP) is dedicated to uplifting rural communities across India. Inspired by the teachings of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, initiatives leverage sustainable technologies, value-based education, and strategic partnerships to empower farmers, enhance livelihoods, and foster a balanced, prosperous environment.

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Lohia Aerospace Systems (LAS), a leading Indian player in aerospace and defense manufacturing, concluded a successful showing at the Paris Air Show 2025, held at Le Bourget. As the only Indian composites company exhibiting at the event, LAS proudly represented the country’s growing capabilities in advanced aerospace manufacturing.

Over the course of the show, LAS displayed cutting-edge composite parts and aerostructures catering to both civil and defense applications. The exhibits-including lightweight structural assemblies and UAV sub-systems-drew significant attention from global aerospace stakeholders for their precision, innovation, and readiness for international supply chains.

Lohia Aerospace Systems at the Paris Air Show

The LAS team held pre-scheduled meetings with several leading OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers from across the aerospace ecosystem. These strategic engagements have propelled the company into advanced-stage conversations with a major OEM for composite interior structures for a next-generation aircraft. LAS is also in advanced discussions to indigenise production of complex structural parts for helicopters for major OEMs-further aligning with India’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. In parallel, LAS explored new avenues of collaboration with an American Tier 1 supplier to jointly bid for civil and defense programs in the United States, significantly enhancing the company’s international engagement strategy.

In addition to these new opportunities, LAS signed major renewal contracts with its existing customers, reinforcing long-standing partnerships and reaffirming the company’s track record for reliable, high-quality delivery. “The Paris Air Show was a very productive event for us,” said Anurag Lohia, CEO, Lohia Aerospace Systems. “We were able to continue key conversations with existing customers and also initiate new global relationships. As the only composites manufacturer from India to be exhibiting, we were proud to showcase how far India has come in delivering world-class aerospace solutions.”

The participation at Paris Air Show 2025 underscores LAS’s ambition to be a trusted global partner in high-performance aerospace manufacturing. With a focus on innovation, precision engineering, and scalable capacity, Lohia Aerospace Systems continues to strengthen its position in the global defense and civil aviation ecosystems.

For more information, please visit website www.lohiaaerospace.com.

MicroPort Orthopedics Inc., a U.S.-headquartered global medical devices company, has announced the introduction of its flagship product, the Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee, in India. This innovative implant has been successfully used at Aster Hospital, Whitefield in Bengaluru, performed by Dr. Kumardev Arvind Rajamanya, Head of Orthopaedics and Lead consultant.

Dr. Kumardev Arvind Rajamanya, Head of Orthopaedics and Lead consultant at Aster Hospital, Bengaluru

The patient, a 65-year-old retired businessman, had been experiencing excruciating knee pain and limited mobility due to advanced osteoarthritis. Dr. Rajamanya, selected the Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee for the patients total knee replacement surgery, citing its exceptional clinical track record. This implants unique design offers flexion stability, anatomic motion, and a wear-limiting design.

“I have used Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee extensively in a very short time and am impressed with the overall outcome,” said Dr. Rajamanya. “It allows for a more natural motion of the knee, closely replicating the kinematics of a healthy knee joint. The medial-pivot design enables patients to achieve a more natural range of motion, which is essential for optimal knee function and patient satisfaction.”

Dr. Mukesh Parmar, Director and General Manager for South Asia, Microport Orthopedics, said, “We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes. The Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee is a testament to our dedication to advancing orthopaedic care and providing patients with a better quality of life.”

A graphic representation of knee anatomy

The Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee has demonstrated exceptional clinical success worldwide, with documented 98.8% survivorship at 17 years and a 95% patient satisfaction rate. With over 25 years of documented usage, MicroPort Orthopedics line of Medial-Pivot products has been utilised in over 1,000,000 cases across 70 countries worldwide.

The patient has made a successful recovery, experiencing improved mobility and reduced pain, thanks to the Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee, patient rehab and Surgical expertise. This successful outcome underscores the implants effectiveness in restoring knee function and improving patient quality of life.

The introduction of the Evolution Medial-Pivot Knee in India marks a significant milestone for MicroPort Orthopedics, further solidifying its position as a leader in orthopaedic innovation.

• Drive conducted at four campuses
• Aligns with Chairman’s Vision

In a move to foster environmental stewardship among the youth, Ryan International Academy partnered with Rotary Bangalore Orchards for a massive tree-planting drive across four of its Bengaluru campuses. Notable Rotarians and Ryan students, as part of the Each One, Plant One program, planted over 1,200 fruit-bearing saplings this week. For students, it was an experiential lesson on ecological responsibility.

Rotarians Mahesh Hariharan and Neil Michael Joseph plant trees at RIA, Horamavu, promoting a green future through the “Each One Plant One” initiative

The programme aligns with the 12-point vision of Dr AF Pinto, Chairman of the Ryan Group of Institutions, derived from the international theme “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration,” highlighting the strength of afforestation and environmental restoration in prevention of climate change and land degradation. The plantation drives were conducted at Ryan International Academy campuses at Sarjapur, Kanakapura Road, Magadi Road, and Horamavu. Ryan Group will take this partnership with Rotary Club on a national scale across all its schools.

This massive greening effort was made possible by the support of Rotary Bangalore Orchards, with all 1,200 saplings generously donated by Mr. Ravishankar Dakoju. Each student is entrusted to caring and nurturing a sapling — increasing personal ownership and ecological consciousness on the part of the students.

A variety of fruit-bearing saplings were planted, including 200 each of Laxman Phal, Mango, Jamun, and Jackfruit, along with 100 each of Seethaphal, Guava, Gooseberry and Rose Apple.

The events were a collaborative community affair, with eight Rotarians participating across the four campuses. The activity at the Horamavu campus was attended by students, staff, and two distinguished Rotarians, including Mr. Neil Michael Joseph, who participated at all the four campuses.

Mr. Neil Michael Joseph, a green leader, social entrepreneur, and Director of Baghirathi Group and Happiness in Transit, said, “While we are in transport business, we are contributing to pollution, so we asked ourselves, how do we reduce our carbon footprint And that led us to plants. As a Rotarian, I care about environmental renewal. What Ryan is doing with Each One, Plant One is truly visionary-getting children involved in tree planting creates a long-term emotional and ethical connection to nature.I’m especially impressed with the idea of entrusting children with nurturing saplings-what a beautiful way to grow both a child and a tree together. We at Rotary are restoring 1,500 acres of barren land in Challakere as Dakoju Rotary Forest. We are happy to spread the same here, and we commit to taking this initiative to more cities.”

The plantation drive was a live classroom, where children learned about how trees clean the air, prevent soil erosion, and support biodiversity. Children also took a Green Pledge to take care of their sapling and embrace sustainable practices such as water conservation and plastic reduction.

This project underscores Ryan Groups abiding commitment to integrating acedemic excellence with environmental values. As the plants find root, so does a deeper awareness among students of their place in preserving Earth for generations to come.

About Ryan International Academy
Ryan International Academy is a part of the Ryan Group of Institutions, which is famous for building confident, socially sensitive, and globally informed learners. Boasting around five decades of excellence in all-round education, Ryan schools incorporate environmentalism into the very core of their learning models.

About Rotary Bangalore Orchards
Rotary Bangalore Orchards is a vibrant club of Rotary International, strongly committed to community services and green conservation. With a history of meaningful green projects, the club remains a change agent in its capacity-building collaborations with schools and community-based organizations.

In a heartening milestone for pediatric care and collective compassion, baby Aasmika Das from West Bengal has successfully undergone Zolgensma gene therapy at a leading hospital in Kolkata.

This medical breakthrough was made possible after her parents raised INR 8.41 crore via the medical crowdfunding platform Impact Guru, with the generous support of 5.29 lakh donors from across India and the world. Aasmika’s fundraiser also recorded the highest number of donors ever on a single campaign on Impact Guru.

Aasmika undergoes Zolgensma gene therapy

Aasmika was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder that weakens muscles and impairs vital functions such as breathing, swallowing, and movement.

Her father, Suvongkar Das, expressed heartfelt gratitude, “We will forever be grateful to each of the 5.29 lakh donors who gave our daughter a second chance at life. It’s because of your kindness that Aasmika has a fighting chance to grow up, laugh, play, and live the life every child deserves. You’ve given us the greatest gift a parent could ask for.”

SMA Type 1 is caused by a mutation in the SMN1 gene, leading to the deterioration of motor neurons. Left untreated, it is often fatal within the first two years of life. Zolgensma, one of the world’s most expensive drugs, offers a one-time gene therapy that replaces the faulty gene with a functional copy, offering the promise of long-term recovery and normalcy.

Piyush Jain, Co-Founder and CEO of Impact Guru, commented on the successful outcome, “Aasmika’s story is a testament to the power of collective goodwill. At Impact Guru, we’re proud to enable a platform where millions can unite to save a single life. The success of this campaign reflects not just the strength of our technology but also the generosity of the human spirit. We remain committed to making advanced healthcare accessible for all.”

Impact Guru’s crowdfunding platform played a pivotal role in mobilizing donations through micro-contributions, social sharing, and unified calls for help. The campaign received overwhelming public support and went viral, reaching donors from every corner of the country.

Aasmika’s successful administration of Zolgensma is not just a medical milestone – it is a testament to what India can achieve when empathy meets innovation.