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The Habitats Trust Awards Rs. 3.3 Crore to Six Biodiversity Conservation Projects Across India

The Habitats Trust (THT) announced the recipients of the ninth edition of The Habitats Trust Grants, awarding Rs. 3.3 crore to 6 conservation projects working to protect India’s threatened species and critical habitats. The selected projects span diverse ecosystems including Mangroves, Oak forests, grasslands. and demonstrate innovative, community-led and science-driven approaches to conserving the country’s rich biodiversity.

 

India is home to nearly 8% of the world’s recorded biodiversity, making it one of the world’s richest repositories of wildlife and ecosystems. Protecting this natural heritage requires sustained support for conservation efforts across landscapes and species, including many lesser-known flora and fauna that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Through its annual grants programme, THT supports conservation practitioners working at the forefront of these efforts, enabling innovative, science-led and community-driven solutions across the country.

 

This year’s grants have been awarded across three categories, reflecting the diverse conservation challenges and solutions emerging from across the country.

 

2026 Grant Categories and Recipients

THT Conservation Grant

Supports organisations addressing India’s conservation challenges, with a focus on lesser-known species and critical habitats.

  • Arulagam – One Health Approach for Conserving Critically Endangered Vultures and Hyena in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Tamil Nadu

  • Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology – Croak, Coexist, and Conserve: Conservation of Threatened Amphibians in Human-Shaped Landscapes of River Catchments with Community Participation in Western Ghats

 

THT Action Grant

Supports urgent, on-ground conservation projects for lesser-known species and habitats requiring immediate intervention.

  • Devvrat Singh – Evidence-Based, Community-Led Conservation of the Indian Wolf in Bahraich’s Intense Human–Wolf Conflict Landscapes: Strengthening OECM Approaches

  • Nagpur Centre for Peoples Social Forum – Community-Led Grassland Conservation and Fodder Security Around the Two Protected Areas of Vidarbha

 

THT Research Grant

Supports interdisciplinary research that informs evidence-based conservation action.

  • Centre for Ecology, Development and Research (CEDAR) – Remnant and Restorable Ecosystem (RARE) Assessment: Developing a Blueprint for Conservation and Restoration of Himalayan Oak Forests

  • MS Swaminathan Research Foundation – Coastal Habitat Monitoring for Enhanced Resilience, Species Conservation, and Community Well-Being

 

Congratulating this year’s grantees, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust, said, “India’s biodiversity is far beyond its iconic wildlife. It includes thousands of lesser-known species and ecosystems that quietly sustain ecological balance and support millions of lives. Through The Habitats Trust Grants, we are proud to support the conservationists working tirelessly to protect this natural heritage. Their work not only strengthens biodiversity conservation today but also helps secure a healthier and more resilient future for generations to come.”

 

Rushikesh Chavan, Director, The Habitats Trust, said, “The quality and diversity of applications this year reflects the growing momentum of conservation efforts across India. From protecting overlooked species and restoring critical habitats to generating research that informs conservation action, these projects show how local knowledge, scientific expertise and community participation can come together to create meaningful and lasting impact.”

 

This year, The Habitats Trust received 117 applications from all across the country. Following a rigorous five-stage evaluation process, 27 projects were shortlisted for field evaluation, of which 10 finalists presented their proposals before an expert jury.

 

The jury comprised Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson, HCL Group and Founder & Trustee, The Habitats Trust; Dr. M. K. Ranjitsinh, wildlife expert and architect of India’s Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972; Bahar Dutt, wildlife biologist and environmental journalist; and Brian Heath, Founder & CEO, Mara Conservancy, Kenya. Projects were evaluated on their conservation relevance, scientific rigour, feasibility, stakeholder engagement, scalability and long-term impact.

 

Since its inception in 2018, The Habitats Trust Grants has supported 38 conservation projects across 21 States and 5 Union Territories, disbursing more than Rs. 16.2 crore to strengthen grassroots conservation efforts across India. By investing in research, innovation and on-ground action, the programme continues to empower conservation practitioners working to protect the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and build resilient ecosystems for the future.

 

For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org/tht-research-grant.php

 

About The Habitats Trust

Founded in 2018 by Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, and Shikhar Malhotra, CEO and Vice-Chairman of HCL Healthcare, The Habitats Trust (THT) is focused on addressing some of the most pressing developmental challenges arising from biodiversity loss, the climate crisis and global water scarcity. It is committed to undertake pioneering work that goes beyond sustainability and offers regenerative models for a thriving world. THT today works in 32 states and UTs of India with over 120 partners covering an area of over six lakh hectares. Over the last six years THT has made innovations for solving complex multidisciplinary challenges by using cutting-edge technology, ecological restoration, and species and habitats conservation.

 

For more information, please visit www.thehabitatstrust.org

Ampcus Cyber Convenes National Leaders at GRC India AI Conclave 2026 to Advance AI Governance, Cybersecurity, and Digital Trust

Ampcus Cyber, a global cybersecurity solutions provider, successfully hosted the GRC India AI Conclave 2026 on 7th August at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, bringing together policymakers, government officials, regulators, cybersecurity leaders, CXOs, technology experts, and industry practitioners to deliberate on the future of AI governance, cyber resilience, governance, risk and compliance (GRC), and digital trust in India. The conclave reinforced the importance of collaborative action in building a secure and AI-driven digital ecosystem as artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and public services.
 

AI, cybersecurity and policy leaders converged at Ampcus Cyber’s GRC India AI Conclave
 

Held under the theme “Empowering a Secure and AI-Driven Digital India,” the day-long summit featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and expert-led conversations on India’s evolving AI governance framework, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), cybersecurity for critical infrastructure, financial-sector resilience, cloud security, AI-enabled compliance, and emerging cyber threats. The discussions highlighted the growing need for governance frameworks that encourage innovation while ensuring security, privacy, and regulatory compliance.
 

The conclave brought together leaders from government, regulatory bodies, financial services, technology, and cybersecurity, with keynote sessions by experts from CERT-In, MeitY, Digi Yatra Foundation, STPI, SEBI, NPCI, Discover Financial Services, Uber, and other leading organisations. Discussions focused on AI governance, cyber resilience, continuous compliance, third-party risk, payment security, digital trust, and data protection in the AI era.
 

Speaking at the conclave, Deep Chanda, CEO at Ampcus Cyber, said, “The conversations at the GRC India AI Conclave reaffirmed that India’s AI future will be shaped not by technology alone, but by collaboration between policymakers, regulators, industry, academia, and cybersecurity experts. The exchange of ideas and practical insights demonstrated a shared commitment to building AI ecosystems that are secure, trustworthy, and innovation-led. As AI becomes increasingly integral to India’s digital economy, forums like these play a vital role in aligning governance, resilience, and responsible adoption. This is only the beginning of a much larger journey to ensure India leads the global AI landscape with confidence, accountability, and trust.”
 

A major highlight of the conclave was the Make in India launch of Ampcus Cyber’s indigenous AI-powered ComplyX portfolio, introducing three next-generation cybersecurity platforms designed to help organizations modernize governance and strengthen cyber resilience. The company unveiled GRACE, an AI-powered Governance, Risk and Compliance platform that streamlines audits, automates compliance, and delivers real-time visibility into enterprise risk; MIRROR, an autonomous continuous penetration testing platform that provides exploit-validated visibility into security vulnerabilities across digital environments; and WIZARD, an AI-driven Third-Party Risk Management platform that enables continuous vendor risk monitoring through intelligent automation.
 

Throughout the conclave, experts highlighted the need for responsible AI adoption, stronger cybersecurity, continuous compliance, and public-private collaboration to build a secure digital future. The GRC India AI Conclave 2026 reaffirmed Ampcus Cyber’s commitment to advancing India’s digital transformation through indigenous innovation, trusted cybersecurity solutions, and collaborative dialogue, while accelerating secure AI adoption, stronger governance, and digital trust.

Quint Digital Limited Q1 FY 2026–27: Building Momentum, Delivering Results

QDL is India’s leading listed digital media-tech company, strategically positioned at the intersection of media, technology, hospitality and AI. In Q1 FY 2026–27, it:

 

  • Successfully repositioned the company as a global Media-Tech and AI-powered platform, expanding beyond digital publishing into high-growth physical retail, commerce, and experiential ventures.

  • Following the successful launch of media vertical of Time Out India, we are advancing toward the launch of India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi (targeted in early Q3 FY2026-2027), marking a significant milestone in our experiential media and hospitality growth strategy.

  • Delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance, led by the Media-Tech business, with revenue surging to Rs. 35 Cr.—a remarkable 336% year-on-year growth over Q1 FY2025–26.

  • Quintype remains the Group’s key growth engine, delivering robust operational and financial performance while reinforcing its leadership in Media-Tech.

 

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) delivered the strongest-ever consolidated Q1 performance

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights

Revenue from Operations: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 35 Cr. | YoY Growth: 336%
Adjusted Profit Before Tax*: Q1 FY 2026-27: Rs. 4.93 Cr.

 

* Post adjustment of interest cost and non-cash expenses viz. depreciation and stock option charge. This also includes adjustment of one-time pre-operating expenses of Rs. 1.04 Cr in relation to the launch of Time Out Media and Time Out Markets

 

Strong Operational Performance: Delivered an adjusted PBT of Rs. 4.93 Cr in Q1 FY2026–27, with the Company on track to achieve its strongest full-year operating performance to date.

 

Strategic Partnership with Time Out: Quint Digital set to launch India’s first Time Out Market in Aerocity, New Delhi, with opening expected before Diwali.

 

Entry into the high-growth, scalable digital media-led commerce vertical is expected to significantly increase operating revenue and create a strong new growth engine for the Company.

 

Strong Media Tech Performance: Quintype’s Media Tech operations delivered robust consolidated revenue of Rs. 33 crore, reflecting the strength and scalability.

 

Strategic Investment in Lee Enterprises

  • Potential for value creation: Increased stake to 14.59% through the acquisition of additional shares @ USD 3.25 per share in Q4 FY 2025-2026. Stake valued at USD 29Mn#

  • QDL recognized a mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 10.58 Cr. on its investment in Lee Enterprises in the current quarter. Overall mark-to-market gain## of Rs. 129 Cr.

  • Strategic Synergy Potential: Lee Enterprises’ ownership of BLOX Digital creates significant strategic synergy opportunities, strengthening QDL’s ability to expand its footprint across the global media technology ecosystem. This partnership enhances QDL’s long-term growth potential through the joint scaling of AI-powered newsroom solutions, enterprise digital publishing platforms, and next-generation media technologies.

 

# Closing price as on June 30, 2026 – USD 8.96 per share

# Mark-to-Market gains represent unrealized gains arising from the shareholding in Lee Enterprises. The reported value is subject to fluctuation based on movements in the underlying share price of Lee Enterprises on the NASDAQ.

 

About Quint Digital Limited

Quint Digital Limited (QDL) (QUINT, BSE 539515) is India’s leading digital and media-tech, AI-focused company. QDL creates innovative ideas in the digital space with cutting-edge technology and engaging formats to propel meaningful change. QDL holds a significant minority stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: “LEE”), a leading American media company that provides trusted local news and advertising services across 72 markets in 25 American states through nearly 350 digital platforms and print publications. QDL’s conglomerate offers various solutions ranging from news to tech innovations, recently strengthened by the acquisition of ListenFirst Media, a premium social media and digital analytics platform headquartered in New York, which enhances QDL’s capabilities in AI- driven audience insights and engagement strategies. Its flagship platform, The Quint, launched in 2015, delivers trusted, innovative journalism, while Quintype’s AI-powered editorial platform enables seamless content creation for over 300 publishers worldwide. QDL’s suite of brands also includes The News Minute, known for independent journalism from Southern India; Youth Ki Awaaz, a citizen media platform that amplifies the voices of India’s youth; and Kisan India, dedicated to comprehensive coverage of Indian agriculture. Quint Digital Limited is listed on the BSE Limited. The equity shares of Quint Digital Limited have been admitted to the permitted to trade category of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

Shrewsbury International School India Completes Its First Year in Bhopal

One year ago today, Shrewsbury International School India admitted its first pupils to a 150-acre campus outside Bhopal – the first fully residential campus that Shrewsbury School UK, founded by Royal Charter in 1552, has established outside Britain, and the first Shrewsbury campus in South Asia. The school marks the close of its founding year having built, largely from first principles, the academic, sporting, artistic and pastoral life that will shape the pupils who come after this year’s cohort. 

 

A Campus Built for Life


A year of building 
The school’s first cohort followed a programme built around the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level curriculum, alongside more than twenty sports – among them India’s first on-campus facilities for indoor rowing, fencing and scuba diving and a full pastoral programme delivered across two boarding houses. Solar power and water-harvesting infrastructure were built into the campus from its earliest planning, and a tree-planting programme across the grounds continues into its second year. 

 

Where Learning Meets Leadership


In June 2026, the school opened the Sidney Centre for the Performing Arts, its purpose-built home for drama and music, marking the occasion with its first Speech Day. Padma Shri-winning film critic and author Bhawana Somaaya joined as Guest of Honour, speaking to pupils on the arts as a discipline of truth-telling and urging them to question their own convictions as rigorously as they would defend them. That same week, the school held its first Callover – the centuries-old Shrewsbury tradition in which every pupil’s name is read aloud before the Headmaster at the close of the academic year – observed for the first time on Indian soil. 


A culture, earned

“There is no ‘the way we’ve always done it’ to fall back on in Year One,” says Dominic Tomalin, Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury International School India. “Every assembly, every house tradition, every small ritual that will one day feel timeless to a child in these classrooms had to be imagined, tested, and earned before it could become part of who we are.” He credits the school’s founding pupils with setting its tone: “They arrived with nothing to go on but belief – courage, commitment, and a trust in something bigger than themselves, before there was any proof it would work.” 


The school has drawn deliberately on two traditions in shaping its first year: Shrewsbury’s own, running back four centuries, and India’s Gurukul model of educating the whole person rather than the mind alone. The two are held together under what the school terms its Salopian Virtues – Wisdom, Integrity, Courage, Kindness, Self-Mastery and Spirit, which inform its daily and academic life alike. 


Looking ahead 

Shrewsbury India has this month welcomed its second cohort of pupils, and admissions remain open for families weighing a residential education of this kind. Of the year now closed, Tomalin writes simply: “If we continue as we began, we are a legacy school in the making.” 

About Shrewsbury International School India 
Shrewsbury International School India is located on a 150-acre campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and is the first international campus of Shrewsbury School UK (founded 1552) outside the United Kingdom.

 

For further information, visit www.shrewsburyindia.in.* 

Zorcha Makes Instagram DM Automation Free for Everyone

Zorcha, the Meta-verified Instagram DM automation platform trusted by creators and businesses worldwide, today announced that its core Instagram DM automation features are now available completely free.

 

Zorcha Team

 

The announcement marks a significant shift in the creator technology landscape. Until now, professional Instagram DM automation has largely been limited to paid software, preventing millions of creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses from leveraging automation to grow their audience and generate revenue.

 

With this launch, every Instagram creator can start automating unlimited conversations at zero cost using Zorcha’s official Meta API integration.

 

“Instagram has democratised distribution for everyone. Reaching millions of people was once a privilege only big corporations had but now anyone with a phone and internet connection can do that. Instagram has become one of the most important business platforms in the world, yet automation has remained inaccessible for many because of software costs. By making our core DM automation platform free, we’re removing that barrier entirely. Our goal is simple—to help every creator and business win the attention game,” said Archit Mehrotra, CEO of Zorcha.

 

The announcement also reflects Zorcha’s broader vision of becoming the operating system for Instagram growth. Beyond DM automation, the platform continues to expand into AI-powered chats, digital products, content scheduling, brand collabs, and complex lead generation chat bots with the goal of becoming a single platform for everything creators need to grow on Instagram.

 

Since its launch, Zorcha has rapidly grown into one of the fastest-growing Instagram automation platforms, helping more than 100,000 creators and businesses automate millions of conversations using Meta’s official APIs.

 

The free plan is available immediately. For more information, visit www.zorcha.com.

 

About Zorcha

Zorcha is an automation platform built to help creators and businesses win the attention game. The platform enables users to automate Instagram conversations, engage potential customers instantly, generate and qualify leads, and drive conversions through intelligent messaging journeys. Zorcha is an official Meta Verified Tech Provider and is used by more than 100,000 creators and businesses worldwide.

Policy Continuity Reinforces Realty Confidence as RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25%

The RBI’s move to hold the repo rate steady at 5.25 percent has received much praise from industrialists because it is seen as providing stability in the housing as well as commercial realty sectors. The stability in interest rates provides assurance to homebuyers, aids in making investment decisions, and helps in planning future projects for the developers. It was also stated that the continued development of infrastructure along with the robustness of end-user demand provides a sound base for the future.
 

Real estate developers welcomed the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged, saying it has boosted confidence among stakeholders.
 

Real estate leaders welcomed the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, citing greater policy stability and stronger confidence across the sector
 

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “The decision by the RBI to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% would bring much-needed stability to the housing market, especially for first-time home purchasers. Predictable borrowing costs make long-term financial planning more practical and help buyers take ownership decisions with greater assurance.“
 

Harvinder Singh Sikka, Chairman, Sikka Group, said, “India’s resilient economic outlook continues to provide a strong foundation for real estate, and the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% adds further certainty to that trajectory. A measured monetary policy encourages long-term capital deployment across residential and commercial assets alike. This approach is expected to deepen investor participation and sustain the sector’s growth over the coming quarters.”
 

Tejpreet Singh Gill, Managing Director, Gillco Group, said, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% provides much-needed stability for the housing market. With home loan rates expected to remain stable, buyers can plan their purchases with greater confidence, while developers can continue investing in project execution and future developments.”
 

Manoj Garg, CEO, Northwind Estates, said, “If 2025 was defined by successive reductions in interest rates, 2026 is increasingly emerging as a year of stability. The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% reinforces a policy environment that allows both homebuyers and developers to plan with greater certainty.”
 

Kushagr Ansal, Director, Ansal Housing, said, “Long-term homeownership decisions are closely linked with financial certainty, making the RBI’s decision to retain the repo rate at 5.25% a welcome development for the residential market. The current interest rate environment allows housing demand to progress steadily while giving the sector greater visibility for future growth.”
 

Dr. Annkit A. Jayant, CEO, HP Global Infrra, said, “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% is a positive step that reinforces stability in the housing market. For emerging destinations like Haridwar, where demand is increasingly driven by end-users, retirees, second-home buyers, and wellness-focused investors, a stable interest rate environment enhances purchase confidence and supports long-term investment decisions.”
 

Sanchit Jain, Director, Sarvottam India, said, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is an encouraging development for the real estate sector. It will strengthen the confidence of prospective homebuyers and enable developers to move forward with new projects with greater clarity. Housing demand continues to rise across several cities, including the NCR, driven by improved road connectivity, metro expansion, and other infrastructure developments.”
 

Ajendra Singh, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Spectrum Metro, said, “Organised retail benefits greatly from a financing environment that offers clarity and consistency, making the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% particularly encouraging. Expansion plans by leading brands, stronger leasing activity and growing consumer spending continue to shape quality retail destinations.”
 

In conclusion, this move by the RBI can be seen as a positive sign for the real estate industry, since the industry leaders are optimistic about the future of growth and policy stability that will promote homebuyers’ confidence, investments, and development.

Nykaa Best in Beauty 2026 Honours India's Most Loved Beauty Products and Brands

Every swipe, every review and every vote tells the story of how India shops beauty today. The third edition of the Nykaa Best in Beauty (NBiB) Awards brings that story to life, distilling the choices, aspirations and evolving preferences of millions of beauty consumers into India’s definitive beauty benchmark. More than an annual awards programme, NBiB has grown into one of India’s largest consumer-led beauty awards, offering a definitive pulse on what India is buying, loving and trusting.

 

Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards 2026

 

With over 3.2 million votes cast across 60 award categories and 316 nominees spanning makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrance, wellness, personal care, bath & body, gifting, and beauty tools, this year’s edition showcased the remarkable breadth and diversity of India’s beauty landscape. The final winners were determined through a combination of consumer participation and evaluation by an esteemed jury, creating a benchmark where consumer conviction meets industry expertise.

 

Catch all the winners here: Winners

 

This year’s winners paint a compelling picture of a beauty industry being reshaped by increasingly informed, ingredient-conscious and globally connected consumers. Performance-backed efficacy is redefining purchase decisions, prestige beauty continues its upward trajectory, and homegrown innovators are earning their place alongside global icons. From Best Homegrown Beauty Brand and Cult Classic to Iconic New Launch of the Year, New & Now, and Brand Campaign of the Year, this year’s honours reflect the ideas, innovations and cultural moments that resonated most with India’s beauty consumers.

 

The panel featured Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty; Nykaa’s brand icon Sharvari; make-up & hair artist- Elton Fernandez; make-up artist, educator and founder of Mokae Beauty-Sandhya Shekhar; hair expert- Hiral Bhatia; dermatologist- Dr. Aanchal Panth (MBBS, MD); founder of NAKED Coffee and luxury content creator- Radhika Seth; creator- Ankush Bahuguna; beauty creator- Tarini Peshawaria; and Nandini Bhalla, Editor at The Word Magazine.

 

NBiB 2026 Jury

 

Commenting on the awards, Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty, said, “The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have evolved into more than an annual celebration of product excellence. It reflects the changing aspirations of India’s beauty consumers and the innovations redefining the industry. This year’s winners show that consumers are rewarding efficacy, authenticity and innovation in equal measure, while homegrown and global brands continue to raise the bar together. We’re proud that NBIB has become a platform where millions of consumers and industry experts collectively define the benchmark for beauty excellence in India.”

 

What the winners reveal about the next wave in Indian beauty:

  • Efficacy is the new beauty standard: Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Concealer, Sky High Mascara, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser prove consumers are choosing products that consistently deliver results over fleeting trends.

  • K-Beauty continues to dominate: Korean beauty brands emerged as standout winners across multiple categories, with Beauty of Joseon, LANEIGE, COSRX, TIRTIR, and Dr. Althea taking home multiple awards, reinforcing K-Beauty’s growing influence across both skincare and makeup.

  • Healthy skin leads every routine: Barrier-care favourites from CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, TONYMOLY, and Dot & Key reflect the growing focus on ingredient-led, skin-first beauty.

  • Homegrown brands are rewriting the rules of beauty: Kay beauty, Maison Moi, Foxtale, WishCare, and indē wild continue to win alongside global beauty icons, showcasing the strength of Indian innovation.

  • Hybrid beauty is redefining makeup: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation, Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer, NYX, and e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter highlight the growing demand for makeup that works like skincare.

  • Luxury beauty is becoming increasingly mainstream: From Charlotte Tilbury and NARS to Yves Saint Laurent, Estée Lauder, CHANEL, Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera, Dyson, and Jo Malone London, consumers are increasingly investing in premium beauty experiences.

 

Discover the complete list of winners on nykaa.com, from breakthrough launches and cult favourites to timeless icons, and shop the products that have earned India’s highest vote of confidence.

 

With a community of over 60 million consumers, a curated assortment spanning 4,000+ brands and 3 lakh+ products, Nykaa continues to shape how India discovers, experiences and shops beauty. The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards have become an annual barometer of India’s beauty evolution, capturing not only the products that are loved by consumers, but the ideas and innovations that will define tomorrow.

 

Explore the full list of winning products and celebrate your favourites and discover some new ones! All award-winning products are available for purchase on Nykaa.com, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the best in beauty as recognized by the most discerning judges & beauty aficionados themselves!

 

Sub-category

Product

MAKEUP

Blush

Nykaa Cosmetics Whipped Blush Pot

Blush (Luxury)

Pixi By Petra On The Glow Blush Ruby

Concealer

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer

Eyeliner

Lakmē 9 to 5 Eyeconic Liquid Eyeliner – Intense Black

Eyeshadow

Kay Beauty Eyeshadow Palette

Foundation

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Tinted Serum Foundation

Foundation (Luxury)

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

Foundation (Luxury)

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Highlighter

e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter

Kajal

Renee Cosmetics Midnight Kohl Kajal

Lip Gloss

Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Candy Glaze

Lip Tint

Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Tint

Lip Tint

ETUDE Dear Darling Water Gel Lip and Cheek Tint Lipstick

Lipstick

Kay Beauty Hydra Creme Lipstick

Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick (Luxury)

M.A.C MACximal Mini Matte Lipstick

Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick (Luxury)

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution – Pillow Talk Medium

Liquid Lipstick

Maybelline New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick

Mascara

Maybelline New York Sky High Mascara

Nail Polish

Nykaa Cosmetics Creme Nail Enamel

Primer

e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer

Compact & Loose Powder

Kay Beauty Setting Loose Powder

Compact & Loose Powder (Luxury)

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish – Medium

Setting Spray

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray

Skin Tint & Tinted Moisturizer

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow All-In-One Tinted Moisturizer

Makeup (Trending)

TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Mini Cushion Foundation

Makeup (Trending)

NYX Professional Makeup Lip I.V. Gloss Stain

SKINCARE

Ageless Beauty

Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Youth Power Creme Moisturizer

Eye Cream

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum

Face Wash & Cleanser

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Lip Balm & Mask

LANEIGE Lip Glowy Balm – Berry

Makeup Remover

Bioderma Micellar Water Sensibio H2O

Face Mask

Foxtale De-Tan Skin Radiance Mask

Moisturizer (Luxury)

Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Moisturizer

Moisturizer

CeraVe Moisturizer Cream For Dry Skin

Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Light Face Moisturizer

Night Cream & Sleeping Mask

LANEIGE Bouncy And Firm Sleeping Mask

Serum (Luxury)

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum

Serum (Luxury)

Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum

Serum

COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin 96 Power Essence

Sunscreen

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sunscreen Rice + Probiotics

Sunscreen

Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen

Toner

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner

Toner

TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

Korean Beauty (Trending)

Celimax The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster

Korean Beauty (Trending)

Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream

Skin (Trending)

CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser

Skin (Trending)

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume

HAIRCARE

Shampoo

Kérastase Discipline Fluidealiste Shampoo

Hair Serum

WishCare Hair Growth Serum Concentrate

Hair Mask

Dove Peptide Bond Strength Hair Treatment Mask

Conditioner

L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Gloss Conditioner

Hair Oil

indē wild Champi Hair Oil

Hair Colour

Streax Professional Argan Secrets Hair Colour & Developer

Hair Styling

Moxie Beauty On The Fly Hair Finishing Stick

Hair (Trending)

L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Growth Serum

Appliance

Dyson Airwrap I.D. Multi Styler & Dryer

FRAGRANCES

Women’s Fragrance (Luxury)

Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum

Men’s Fragrance (Luxury)

Yves Saint Laurent MYSLF Eau De Parfum

Body Mist

Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist

Popular Fragrance

Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Eau De Parfum

BODYCARE

Shower Gel & Body Wash

Chemist At Play Exfoliating Body Wash

Body Lotion

Plum BodyLovin Vanilla Caramello Lotion

Body Scrub & Exfoliant

Dove Exfoliating Body Polish – Pomegranate Seeds And Shea Butter

Deodorant & Roll-On

Be Bodywise 4% AHA BHA Underarm Roll

Body Grooming

Gillette Venus

NYKAA MAN

Favourite Men’s Brand

Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum

Favourite Men’s Brand

Paco Rabanne 1 Million Elixir Parfum Intense

WELLNESS

Beauty Booster

OZiva Phyto Ceramides+ Collagen

Daily Nutrition

Wellbeing Nutrition Slow Multivitamin + Omega 3

GIFTING

Most Loved Gifting Brand (Luxury)

Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede

Most Loved Gifting Brand

Nykaa Wanderlust French Lavender Getaway Gift Set

SPECIAL AWARDS

Iconic New Launch of the Year (Brand)

CHANEL

Iconic New Launch of the Year (Product)

Nykaa Cosmetics Matte to Last Lipstick

Cult Classic

M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid Foundation

New and Now (Brand)

NYX Professional Makeup

New and Now (Product).

Nexxus Promend Oil Resurrection Hair Serum

Multi-use makeup product

LoveChild Masaba Skip Everything Blurring Serum Skin Tint SPF 20

Best Homegrown Beauty (Brand)

Maison Moi

Brand Campaign of the Year

L’Oréal Paris – Cannes Film Festival

 

Sentosa GrillFest 2026 Returns with its Largest Line-Up Yet: 42 Food Vendors, First-Ever Omakase-Inspired Beachfront Dining and Returning Crowd Favourites

  • Debut of Chef’s Grill, an air-conditioned omakase-inspired eight-course dining experience co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association

  • Longstanding fan favourites Craft’ B, Slurp Your Oysters, Jett BBQ and DAMN return alongside 18 new vendors across five zones

  • Marketplace by Indoguna and Sunset Lounge by Asahi introduces premium grilling, golden hour gatherings and new ways to experience the beachfront

  • Beach-front seating and increased sheltered capacity, new ways to settle in and enjoy the festival by the sea

  • First-ever use of solar energy to power the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting
     

Sentosa GrillFest, Singapore’s favourite beachfront cookout supported by Singapore Tourism Board, returns to Siloso Beach for its ninth edition from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Since its debut in 2017, the festival has welcomed close to 800,000 visitors, and this year’s edition is its most ambitious yet. Featuring 42 vendors across five zones, including 18 new names and a host of returning crowd favourites, guests can look forward to bold new flavours, an elevated beachfront atmosphere, and first-ever dining concepts co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association, all in a festival that welcomes guests of every kind, pets included. From the crackle of open flames and the aroma of food fresh off the grill to the anticipation of the first bite by the sea, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 is designed to be a gastronomic feast for all senses.
 

Sentosa GrillFest 2026
 

Omakase-Inspired Chef’s Grill
Making its debut this year is Chef’s Grill, Sentosa GrillFest’s first-ever eight-course omakase-inspired style beachfront dining experience, created in collaboration with the Singapore Chefs’ Association (SCA). Held in an air-conditioned tent with premium chinaware, the format gives diners a close look at live-fire techniques from a curated roster of Singapore chefs. Three mainstay vendors — Sentosa Golf Club, R&B Grill Bar and ASAP & CO — anchor the experience across all four weekends, while a rotating guest vendor slot brings fresh faces to the menu each week, giving guests a new reason to return every weekend.

Chef’s Grill also serves as the closing platform for the inaugural Singapore Chef Festival, organised in partnership with the SCA, marking Sentosa GrillFest’s growing role in Singapore’s culinary calendar.

For Chef’s Grill menu and pricing details, refer to www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

Marketplace by Indoguna
Returning in an elevated format this year is Marketplace, developed in collaboration with Indoguna, a leading premium food importer and distributor in Singapore. This year’s edition places a sharper focus on local sourcing and sustainable produce, with a curated selection of ingredients that champions responsible food choices without compromising on quality.

Drawing the eyes of all who enter is a central chiller display, where guests can browse and select fresh meats, seafood, vegetables and gourmet items, before watching them cooked-to-order across themed grill and serve stalls. Prepare to be entranced by the theatre of live-fire cooking through grilling, smoking and searing front and centre.

A retail section carries artisanal products, sauces, spices and ready-to-cook selections for guests who want to take part of the Sentosa GrillFest experience home.

And for those looking to capture the memories, the aura-reading photobooth is the perfect spot to snap share-worthy moments with friends.

Sunset Lounge by Asahi
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Sunset Lounge by Asahi, sets the scene for golden hour gatherings by the sea. Guests can ease into the evening at this dedicated beachfront bar experience, where the pace slows and the views take centre stage. The lounge is positioned as a standalone wind-down spot between the afternoon and evening sessions with DJ programming, live band performances.

For details on programming, refer to www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

Vendor Line-up for Every Palate
Beyond the new concepts, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 brings back three beloved zones: Local Grills, International Grills and Beachside Grills.

Local Grills returns with homegrown crowd favourites Slurp Your Oysters and Craft’ B, both longstanding fixtures of Sentosa GrillFest who have grown alongside the festival. Craft’ B, known for their Netflix-featured grass-fed ribeye, returns alongside Slurp Your Oysters, serving freshly shucked oysters sourced directly from Murotsu Bay in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Also back is DAMN, winner of Sentosa GrillFest’s People’s Choice Award in 2025, bringing their signature dry-aged meats.

International Grills takes guests on a culinary journey across the globe, from Korean BBQ at Hanok Kimchi, to the bold smoky flavours of BBQ Box. Joining them this year are new entrants Umi Matsuri, bringing the Japanese art of robatayaki grilling to the beachfront, and 8 Degree Taiwanese Bistro, serving up the iconic Taiwanese night market classic (Taiwan sausage with sticky rice).

Perched along the waterfront, Beachside Grills serves up open-flame cooking against the backdrop of Siloso Beach. New this year includes vendors such as ChillBro rounding off the meal on a sweet note with grilled banana topped with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sauce. Returning favourites include Jett BBQ, beloved for their show-stopping dinosaur ribs, and Smok Hous, known for its Texas-style barbecue.

Aside from the food, festivalgoers can look forward to live entertainment throughout the festival. Kicking off the first Sunday on 26 July, ZIP4, a Korean jazz band, will take to the stage at 7pm in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore.

The full list of participating vendors can be found here: www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

Sustainability and Accessibility
This year’s edition marks a significant step forward in the festival’s sustainability journey. For the first time, the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting will be powered by battery and solar energy, reducing the festival’s reliance on conventional power sources and reducing carbon footprint.

Continuing commitments include the reduction of single-use disposables across the festival grounds, with all vendors required to use compostable packaging and cutlery in line with Sentosa’s Disposables Policy.

On accessibility, Sentosa GrillFest continues to provide dedicated beach tracks for wheelchair users and families with strollers, with priority seating available for guests with mobility needs throughout the festival grounds.

Event details – Sentosa GrillFest 2026
Time: 4.00pm to 10.30pm
Venue: Siloso Beachfront

Dates:

  • Thu 23, Fri 24, Sat 25, Sun 26 July;

  • Fri 31 July, Sat 1, Sun 2 August;

  • Fri 7, Sat 8, Sun 9 August; and

  • Fri 14, Sat 15, Sun 16 August
     

For more information on Sentosa GrillFest 2026, please visit www.sentosa.com.sg/grillfest.

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About Sentosa

Sentosa, where discovery never ends, is Asia’s leading leisure destination and Singapore’s premier island resort getaway, located within 15 minutes from the central business and shopping districts. The island resort is managed by Sentosa Development Corporation, which works with various stakeholders in overseeing property investments, attractions development, and operation of the various leisure offerings and management of the residential precinct on the island.

The 500-hectare island resort is home to an exciting array of themed attractions, award-winning spa retreats, lush rainforests, golden sandy beaches, resort accommodations, world-renowned golf courses, a deep-water yachting marina and luxurious residences – making Sentosa a vibrant island resort for business and leisure. Sentosa is also home to Singapore’s first integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa, which operates Southeast Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park.

Situated on the eastern end of Sentosa Island is Sentosa Cove, an exclusive waterfront residential enclave bustling with more than 2,000 homes, quayside restaurants, retail and specialty shops. The island is also proud to be home to Sentosa Golf Club and its two acclaimed golf courses, The Serapong and The Tanjong. Sentosa Golf Club has hosted a number of high-profile professional and amateur tournaments, including the Singapore Open and HSBC Women’s World Championship, welcoming international star players and world-class golf professionals from across the world.

Welcoming a growing number of local and international guests every year, Sentosa is an integral part of Singapore’s goal to be a global destination to work, live and play. For more information, please visit: www.sentosa.com.sg.

 

About Sentosa Development Corporation

Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) was established on 1 September 1972 as a Statutory Board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry. As a master planner, its charter since inception has been to oversee the development, management, marketing and promotion of the island of Sentosa as a resort destination for locals and tourists.

SDC wholly owns its subsidiaries Sentosa Cove Resort Management Pte Ltd and Sentosa Golf Club. SDC also owns the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network, managed by Mount Faber Leisure Group Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary which operates as an autonomous commercial arm.

 

About Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, we shape a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape. We bring the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.

More: www.stb.gov.sg or www.visitsingapore.com | Follow us: STB LinkedIn, STB Facebook or STB Instagram

Building Trust in Tech: Ai+ Smartphone Commits Rs. 100 Crore to Enhance Security Through Community Participation

In a groundbreaking move for the Indian smartphone landscape, Ai+ Smartphone has launched Project Trust+, a bold initiative dedicated to creating the country’s safest smartphone ecosystem through long-term community engagement. The company is pledging Rs. 20 crore annually for the next five years, totaling Rs. 100 crore, to invite the tech and developer community to enhance security and foster trust within its devices.

 

Ai+ Smartphone commits Rs. 100 crore through Project Trust+ to enhance security through community participation


Through the initiative, the company is inviting independent researchers to actively test its systems, challenge its security architecture and highlight vulnerabilities that can be addressed before they impact consumers. 


Project Trust+ is driven by the belief that security is an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. As digital landscapes become more interconnected, Ai+ emphasizes that building secure smartphones requires collaboration, transparency, and active participation from the community. This initiative aims to go beyond traditional bug bounty programs, fostering an open environment where developers, security researchers, and ethical hackers can collectively contribute to the safety and resilience of Ai+ products.


Commenting on the announcement, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “Most companies tell users their devices are secure. We want to prove it. The reality is that no smartphone, no platform, and no technology ecosystem can claim security as a finished destination. It evolves every day. Project Trust+ reflects our belief that trust should be built transparently and collaboratively. We are opening our doors to India’s technology community because we believe the safest products are built not in isolation, but together.”


The initiative further strengthens Ai+’s broader philosophy around transparency, privacy, and user ownership, values that also sit at the centre of NxtQuantum OS, the company’s sovereign mobile operating system initiative.


With Project Trust+, Ai+ Smartphone aims to shift the conversation around smartphone security from claims and promises to continuous improvement and public accountability.


Because when it comes to trust, the work is never complete.


To apply for the programme, visit the link in bio on Madhav’s IG handle


Project Trust+ Because Trust Is Built Together.


About Ai+ Smartphone
Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

 

Manipal University Jaipur Launches PCI-Approved B.Pharm. Programme, Admissions Open for 2026–27

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) has announced the launch of its Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm.) programme under the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences after receiving approval from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). Admissions for the inaugural 2026–27 academic session are now open for the aspiring students.

 

Manipal University Jaipur

 

The introduction of the B.Pharm. programme marks a significant milestone in the University’s continued expansion of quality professional education in the healthcare domain. Backed by the approval of the apex statutory body for pharmacy education in India, the programme is designed to prepare competent pharmacy professionals equipped with scientific knowledge, practical skills, research aptitude, and ethical values to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

 

The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at MUJ offers state-of-the-art infrastructure to facilitate experiential learning and research. Students will have access to advanced laboratories, smart classrooms, seminar halls, modern research facilities and the University’s vibrant academic ecosystem. The programme is further strengthened by Manipal University Jaipur’s emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, industry engagement, and holistic student development.

 

Drawing upon the Manipal Group’s distinguished legacy of over 70 years in healthcare, education, and research, the programme aims to nurture future-ready professionals capable of contributing to the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare institutions, regulatory organizations, clinical research, academia, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum has been designed to blend strong theoretical foundations with laboratory training, industry exposure, and research-oriented learning to ensure graduates are prepared for emerging opportunities in the rapidly growing pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors.

 

The University believes that the new programme will provide aspiring students with an excellent platform to build successful careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality assurance, drug development, clinical research, hospital pharmacy, regulatory affairs, public health, and healthcare innovation.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, said, “The launch of the PCI-approved B.Pharm. programme is another important step in strengthening our commitment to excellence in healthcare education. With the Manipal legacy, world-class infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a research-driven learning environment, we are confident that our students will emerge as competent professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to society and the healthcare ecosystem.”

 

The University has invited aspiring students with an interest in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare, research, and innovation to apply for the programme. Admissions for the 2026–27 academic session are currently underway.

 

About Manipal University Jaipur

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities, renowned for academic excellence, innovation, research, and industry-oriented education. Established in 2011 as part of the prestigious Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), MUJ has rapidly emerged as a preferred destination for higher education, offering a vibrant learning ecosystem that nurtures knowledge, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

 

Accredited with an A+ Grade by NAAC, MUJ offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programmes across Engineering, Management, Law, Design, Architecture, Commerce, Arts, Science, Humanities, Journalism, and Allied Health Sciences. The University places strong emphasis on experiential learning, interdisciplinary education, research excellence, innovation, and global engagement.

 

With a vibrant student community representing almost every state and union territory of India, along with several international students, MUJ promotes diversity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange. Through its commitment to quality education, impactful research, sustainability, and social responsibility, Manipal University Jaipur continues to empower future-ready professionals and responsible global citizens.

 

For more details, please visit the official website of Manipal University Jaipur: jaipur.manipal.edu