Fortis Escorts Faridabad, today launched Faridabad’s first dedicated Lung Failure Clinic, aimed at providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from advanced and end-stage lung diseases. The clinic will operate every Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad and will be led by Dr. Govini Balasubramani, Director – Lung Transplant & Advanced Lung Failure, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai (a Fortis Network Hospital) along with Dr. Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director – Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad.

Fortis Escorts Faridabad Launches Faridabad’s First Comprehensive Lung Failure Clinic

The clinic will offer end-to-end management for patients with advanced lung failure, including comprehensive disease evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, and assessment of eligibility for lung transplantation. Eligible patients will receive structured pre-transplant counselling, detailed clinical work-up, and seamless post-transplant follow-up in collaboration with the transplant specialists. In addition, patients will have access to advanced pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy and interventional pulmonology procedures, pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, nutritional counselling, sleep evaluation, non-invasive ventilation support, and personalised patient education. By bringing together respiratory physicians, transplant specialists, rehabilitation experts, and allied healthcare professionals, the clinic aims to improve clinical outcomes, enhance quality of life, and provide continuity of care for patients living with advanced respiratory diseases.

Dr Govini Balasubramani, Director, Lung Transplant & Advanced Lung Failure, Gleneagles Hospital, Chennai (a Fortis Network Hospital) added, “We are witnessing a steady rise in patients with advanced lung diseases, driven by multiple factors including air pollution, tobacco exposure, occupational hazards, infections and an ageing population. Unfortunately, many patients reach us only when their lung function has deteriorated significantly. The Lung Failure Clinic has been established to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive evaluation, optimisation of medical therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and, where appropriate, timely assessment for lung transplantation.”

Speaking on the launch, Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director, Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad said, “As pulmonologists, we are seeing more patients presenting with severe respiratory impairment, often at a stage when treatment options become limited. Through the Lung Failure Clinic, we aim to provide timely access to multidisciplinary expertise, personalised treatment plans and advanced therapies, while identifying patients who may benefit from lung transplantation before they become too sick or develop contraindications for transplant.”

SettleMint India, today announced its strategic rebranding to Quadcentrix, marking its evolution from a blockchain technology specialist into a comprehensive enterprise digital solutions provider. The new identity reflects the company’s expanded capabilities across artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics and other emerging technologies, positioning it to help enterprises navigate increasingly complex digital transformation journeys.

Core Team at the launch of the Quadcentrix Office

The rebranding comes as India’s enterprise technology landscape undergoes a drastic transformation. The country’s enterprise AI market is projected to grow from approximately USD 13 billion in 2025 to more than USD 130 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights, while IBM’s Global AI Adoption Index found that 59% of large Indian enterprises already have AI actively in use, the highest share among the countries surveyed. As that shift accelerates, enterprises are increasingly looking for a single technology partner that can move fluidly across AI, blockchain and data, rather than stitching together point solutions from different vendors.

Shahzad Fatmi CEO Quadcentrix

Quadcentrix, formerly SettleMint India, has emerged to meet this demand. The rebranding signifies the company’s evolution from a blockchain specialist into a full spectrum technology partner, spanning enterprise AI orchestration, blockchain trust, and data transformation.

Founded in 2019, the company has spent over six years delivering enterprise technology infrastructure, building a track record that today includes 20+ enterprise clients globally, with services and solutions delivered across 5 countries. Its work covers diverse sectors including Banking and Financial Services (BFSI), Government and Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Having established itself in India in the last few years, the company plans to leverage its strong foothold and target a double-digit growth in the first year of the rebranded entity. 

“The market has moved faster than the vendor categories built to serve it,” said Shahzad Fatmi, CEO of Quadcentrix. “Our clients no longer come to us with a single blockchain problem to solve. They come with a business challenge that spans data, AI and trust, often all at once. Over six years, we built the team and the track record to meet them there, and Quadcentrix is the name that finally reflects that breadth.”

The name ‘Quadcentrix’ is built around two key ideas: “Quad,” representing the four pillars that power its delivery model (collaborative excellence, trusted expertise, agile delivery, and independent flexibility), and “Centrix,” reflecting a client centred approach to every engagement.

The company has confirmed that the rebranding will not impact existing client contracts, ownership structures, or the teams supporting current engagements.

Quadcentrix will begin rolling out its new brand identity across its digital presence, client communications and business materials, in the coming weeks. 

More information about the company’s services, solutions and industry work is available at www.quadcentrix.com.

About Quadcentrix
Quadcentrix (formerly SettleMint India) is a technology company that helps enterprises modernise their data foundations, apply enterprise AI, and build trusted blockchain solutions. Founded in 2019, the company has delivered 6+ years of enterprise technology work for 20+ clients across 5 countries, serving sectors including Banking & Financial Services, Government & Public Sector, Capital Markets, Agritech, and Healthcare & Life Sciences. Quadcentrix is headquartered in India with a team spanning architecture, AI, engineering and delivery.

Galgotias University has delivered an outstanding performance in the Times BBA Education Ranking Survey 2026, published in The Times of India, further strengthening its position among the country’s leading institutions for management education.

The University climbed in three major categories led by a four-place jump to No. 2 in the country for placements. The placement result, up from No. 6 last year, was the University’s sharpest gain in the survey.

Across the categories, Galgotias University now ranks:

• No. 2 in India for BBA placements, up from No. 6

• No. 8 among India’s Top 70 BBA institutes, up from No. 9

• No. 5 among private BBA universities in India, up from No. 6

• No. 5 among BBA institutes in North India, holding last year’s position

Galgotias University ranks #2 in India for Placements in the Times BBA Survey 2026

Placement results across the University

The BBA ranking rests on placement numbers that run strong across the University. In the 2026 drive, Galgotias University students secured more than 5,500 offers from over 1,250 recruiting organisations. The highest package reached INR 60 lakh per annum, the average package stood at INR 5.4 lakh per annum, and the top internship carried a stipend of INR 1.25 lakh per month.

Prominent recruiters included top-tier technology, financial services and consulting firms. Infosys made 526 offers, Capgemini 228, Cognizant 205, City Union Bank 188, Accenture 91 and EY 61. The wider recruiter list includes Cisco, JPMorgan, Deloitte, KPMG and Tata Power. Hiring for the 2026-27 cohort is already underway, with early offers from Deloitte, EY and KPMG.

Industry connect

The placement record follows directly from how the University teaches. Galgotias University runs close to 20 industry-aligned Centres of Excellence and learning centres built with firms including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, Salesforce and IBM. These centres give students hands-on work with current technology, industry-certified learning paths and direct contact with practitioners, so graduates arrive at recruiters already familiar with the tools and expectations of the job.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “Rising from sixth to second in the country for BBA placements tells our students and faculty that the approach is working. We built the programme around practical education, workplace skills and close industry engagement, and these results show up in where our graduates land. Our job now is to keep giving students the knowledge, experience and opportunities to build strong careers and lead as business changes around them.”

Growing national and global standing

The Times BBA result follows a series of recent rankings for Galgotias University and its School of Business.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band, 16th among private universities in India and 46th among all Indian universities, public and private combined. It marks the third year in a row that the University has featured among India’s top private institutions, and it ranks among the top three in Uttar Pradesh.

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed 27th among private universities in India and its Business and Economics discipline entered the 601-800 global band.

The India Today-MDRA Best Colleges Survey 2026 ranked the School of Business 3rd among BBA institutions in Uttar Pradesh.

Each survey uses its own methodology and criteria. Read together, they cover the University’s performance across placements, academic quality, research and international standing.

Galgotias University ties management education to internships, live projects, entrepreneurship, technology-enabled learning and direct work with industry professionals. Students solve real business problems and build skills in decision-making, communication, teamwork and leadership. The University plans to expand its industry partnerships, hands-on learning and career-development programmes further.

About Galgotias University

Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact.

In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46th among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.

Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

 The vivo S2 marks the return of the brand’s S-series to India after nearly seven years, arriving with a curved display, a large battery, and a design-first approach aimed at younger buyers. Ahead of its India debut, here is how the vivo S2 is shaping up against some of the latest vivo smartphones already turning heads in 2026, and how you can bring one home on Easy EMIs.

vivo S2 First Look: Explore its design, features, camera and performance, and see how the latest vivo S2 compares with vivo smartphones in 2026

vivo S2: The first look
The vivo S2 will launch in India on 6 August 2026, and early reports point to a phone built around a bold display and all-day battery life.

The standout here is the pairing of a large, curved screen with a 7,050 mAh battery, a combination that should suit anyone who streams, scrolls, or games through the day without reaching for a charger too often. The dual rear setup, backed by 4K video on both cameras, gives it a genuine edge for casual content creation, while wireless charging is a rare addition at this segment.

vivo V80 5G: The next V-series contender
The V-series has built its reputation on camera performance, and the upcoming vivo V80 5G looks set to continue that trend with a sharper display and a bigger battery than its predecessor.

Where the vivo S2 leans on screen size and battery capacity, the V80 5G looks to bring a faster refresh rate and a Zeiss-tuned triple camera into the conversation, making it a strong pick for buyers who prioritise photography alongside everyday performance.

vivo X300 FE: The compact flagship benchmark

For a sense of where vivo’s flagship ambitions sit, the vivo X300 FE offers a useful reference point. Launched on 6th May 2026, it brings a 6.31-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and 12GB RAM for smooth gaming and multitasking.

The X300 FE proves that a compact body needn’t mean compromise, packing flagship silicon and a versatile triple camera into a phone that’s easier to handle one-handed. It sets a useful benchmark for what buyers can expect as they move up vivo’s 2026 lineup.

Pricing at a glance
Early pricing indications place these three phones across a wide spread, giving buyers options at different budgets.

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Shopping made easier with Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance
Whichever vivo smartphone catches your eye, spreading the cost makes it easier to own. With an Easy EMI Loan offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 5 lakh, or an Insta EMI Card offering a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 3 lakh, both with tenures between 3 and 60 months, upgrading your phone need not mean paying the full price upfront.

Buying on Easy EMIs from a Bajaj Finance partner store is straightforward:

• Check your loan eligibility online in a few minutes

• Visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across 4,000+ cities in India

• Pick your preferred vivo smartphone and confirm the EMI plan that fits your budget

• Complete the paperwork in-store and walk out with your new phone

This wide network means a partner store is rarely far away, whether you are in a metro city or a smaller town. Buyers can also look forward to zero down payment on select models, Easy EMIs starting from Rs. 830, flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months, and up to 60% off the price of select phones, making a display and camera upgrade far more accessible.

With three distinct phones on offer, from the design-led vivo S2 to the camera-focused V80 5G and the compact X300 FE, there is a vivo smartphone to suit most needs and budgets, all of them within easier reach thanks to Easy EMIs from Bajaj Finance.

Ai+ Smartphone today announced its partnership with Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Season 18, bringing the new-age Indian smartphone brand together with one of the country’s most iconic and trusted television properties.

Ai+ Smartphone Partners with Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18

For over two decades, KBC and its legendary host Amitabh Bachchan have stood for credibility, knowledge and aspiration, earning the trust of generations of Indian audiences. For Ai+ Smartphone, the association reflects a shared belief that trust is not claimed, it is earned over time.

As a young Indian technology brand, Ai+ Smartphone is building its journey around transparency, privacy and consumer-first technology. Its association with KBC gives the brand an opportunity to take this vision to millions of households across India.

Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth, Ai+ Smartphone and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “KBC is more than a television show; it is a part of India’s cultural fabric. Over the years, KBC and Mr. Bachchan have built an extraordinary legacy of credibility and trust. As a young Indian brand, that resonates deeply with us. We are building Ai+ with the belief that trust has to be earned every day through our products, our actions and our transparency. This partnership brings together an established legacy of trust with a new Indian technology brand aspiring to earn the same confidence from consumers.”

The association marks another step in Ai+ Smartphone’s journey towards building an Indian technology brand rooted in trust, privacy and transparency.

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 Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru, a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, today inaugurated the IBM–MIT AI Lab – MAHE Intelligence GPU (MIG) at its Bengaluru campus in collaboration with IBM. The Centre houses a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility and is designed to democratise access to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Lab will provide advanced AI computing resources, research infrastructure, and digital skilling opportunities to students, researchers, and institutions across India.

MAHE-IBM inaugurated the AI Lab in Bengaluru

The Lab was inaugurated by Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru & Nisha Gopinath, Vice President, Human Resources, IBM India and South Asia, in the presence of Shipra Sharma, CSR Leader, IBM India and South Asia, Dr. E. V. Ramana Reddy, IAS, Chairman, KSDA, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru and Dr. Dayanand, Dean, School of Computing & Engineering, along with senior leaders from IBM, faculty members, researchers, students, and industry representatives.

Powered by advanced GPU-enabled computing infrastructure, AI Lab will support cutting-edge research in machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing, cybersecurity, healthcare, intelligent systems and data analytics. The facility can simultaneously support 30 high-performance computing workloads. It will provide faculty members, researchers, innovators and students with world-class computational resources to develop next-generation AI solutions.

Beyond enabling advanced research, AI Lab has been envisioned as a collaborative platform/hub that bridges academia and industry. It will support industry-sponsored projects, interdisciplinary research, faculty development programmes, student innovation, hackathons, internships, startup incubation and collaborative technology development. Together, these initiatives will create an ecosystem where ideas can rapidly evolve into impactful solutions.

A defining feature of the initiative is its commitment to inclusive AI education. Through IBM SkillsBuild, IBM’s free technology education program, MIT BLRU will establish an AI Learning Initiative. The programme will offer AI awareness workshops, immersive bootcamps, hands-on training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IBM SkillsBuild digital credentials, mentorship from MIT BLRU faculty and student volunteers, and access to advanced computing infrastructure. By reaching students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and equip learners with industry-relevant skills for the AI-driven economy.

“I commend MIT, BLRU and IBM on launching the IBM-MIT, AI Lab and their shared commitment to advancing AI education and nurturing future-ready talent. This collaboration highlights the power of academia-industry partnerships in strengthening Karnataka’s AI ecosystem. By providing access to advanced AI infrastructure, hands-on learning, and resources, the lab will empower students and researchers to accelerate innovation and develop AI-driven solutions that address societal challenges and contribute to inclusive growth,” said Priyank Kharge, Cabinet Minister for Home, IT & BT, e-Governance, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, said, “Artificial Intelligence must become an enabler for everyone, not just a privileged few. AI Lab reflects our commitment to combining world-class research with social impact by expanding access to AI education, fostering innovation and preparing learners for an AI-driven future. Our collaboration with IBM is a significant step towards building an inclusive and globally competitive AI ecosystem.”

Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India and South Asia said, “India stands at a pivotal moment in its AI journey, with the talent, innovation ecosystem, and digital foundations to lead the next wave of global AI innovation. Realising this potential requires stronger collaboration between talent, research, advanced computing, and industry. Our collaboration with MIT BLRU reflects IBM’s commitment to democratizing access to emerging technologies, enterprise-grade computing, and digital skills, empowering students and researchers to advance AI innovation. Together, we are strengthening India’s AI research ecosystem and driving innovations that create meaningful impact for India and the world,”

Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, said the Centre would significantly strengthen the University’s AI research ecosystem. “MIG provides our students and researchers with the computing power needed to solve complex challenges and accelerate AI innovation. By integrating advanced infrastructure with industry collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem that nurtures research excellence, hands-on learning and industry-ready talent.”

MIG marks a significant milestone in Karnataka’s higher education and innovation ecosystem. By combining advanced High-Performance Computing infrastructure with large-scale AI skilling, industry collaboration and community outreach, the Centre is expected to catalyse transformative research, innovation, entrepreneurship and talent development. As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape industries and societies, MIG positions MIT Bengaluru as a leading hub for AI research, talent development and responsible innovation. 

About MAHE
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

About IBM
IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM’s breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service.

Peter England today announced the launch of “VYBE”, a contemporary menswear sub-brand shaped by how a new generation dresses today. With modern fits, effortless styling and accessible prices, VYBE brings a more relaxed and individual expression to Peter England’s British-rooted, dressed-up sensibility. The result feels current and expressive, yet unmistakably Peter England.

 

From L-R: India’s Leading artist Tricksingh with Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England and THE IMBACHI

 

The launch introduces a range of overshirts, shackets, structured polos, oversized T-shirts, cargos, denim, Korean-fit trousers and coordinated separates. Designed with an emphasis on comfort, versatility and ease of styling, the range brings together elevated essentials that can be worn across multiple occasions. Starting at Rs 1,200, with every piece priced below Rs 2,000, VYBE makes contemporary fashion accessible without compromising on quality, craftsmanship or design.

 

To mark the launch, Peter England has introduced VYBE Verified, an original music-led campaign conceptualised by Ogilvy, featuring independent artists Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI. The campaign reimagines what it means to be “verified”, celebrating individuals who trust their own instincts, express themselves with confidence and define success on their own terms.

 

Commenting on the launch, Anand Aiyer, Chief Business Officer, Peter England, added: “VYBE is an important step in further deepening Peter Englands’ relevance with Gen Z and bringing younger consumers into the brand. Contemporary product, accessible pricing and a culture-led campaign create a strong platform for future growth while keeping the proposition distinctly Peter England ”

 

The artists collaborated through a series of studio jam sessions to create an original track inspired by the brand’s creative idea. The partnership culminates in a music video that brings together fashion and music, positioning VYBE Verified as an expression of the confidence and creative energy that shape the brand.

 

Commenting on the vision behind VYBE, Priyank Karanam, Creative Director, Peter England, said: “The creative idea behind VYBE was simple: to make dressing well feel effortless. Relaxed fits, fresh styling and considered details create looks that feel young and individual, while retaining the put-together character of Peter England.”

 

Peter England created an immersive VYBE launch experience at its Indiranagar store in Bengaluru, bringing fashion, music and culture together. Designed as a content-friendly destination for creators and consumers alike, the space featured VYBE Verified branding across multiple touchpoints, inviting guests to engage with the brand and create their own interpretation of the campaign. The experience was brought to life through live performances by Tricksingh and THE IMBACHI as they unveiled the collection.

 

The first drop of VYBE is now available across 50 Peter England stores nationwide and is also available on Peterengland.com and Myntra. 

About Peter England

Peter England is one of India’s most loved and largest menswear brands, selling more than 14 million garments every year across 1000+ exclusive stores, 3,500+ multi-brand outlets, and 800+ towns, along with a strong e-commerce presence. Launched in India in 1997, the brand has evolved from its foundation in honest shirts into a complete lifestyle offering across formalwear, casualwear, denim, celebration wear, and accessories. Peter England is committed to making quality and style accessible for every occasion.

About Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited

Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited (ABLBL), a part of the Aditya Birla Group, is a leading branded apparel company with a comprehensive portfolio of marquee lifestyle brands. As of June 30, 2026, the Company operates a retail footprint of ~5 million sq. ft., comprising 3,362 exclusive brand outlets, presence across 39,500+ multi-brand outlets, and over 6,500+ shop-in-shops in department stores across the country. The Company’s brand portfolio includes India’s most established and trusted names – Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly and Peter England – each with a legacy of over 25 years. These brands have consistently delivered sustained growth, driven by a sharp focus on design-led innovation, category expansion and operational excellence across product lines spanning formal, casual and occasion wear. ABLBL has built a strong presence in the innerwear and athleisure market through Van Heusen Innerwear, which has rapidly scaled its distribution network across India. The Company’s portfolio is further enhanced through strategic partnerships with leading international brands including Simon Carter, American Eagle and Reebok. American Eagle has emerged as one of India’s most preferred premium denim brands, while Reebok – transitioned under the Company’s management in 2022 – has expanded its footprint across multiple channels. Simon Carter continues to strengthen its position in the premium menswear segment through its distinctive design language and curated collections.

For Further information, please contact: Janet Arole | AVP & Head, Corporate Communications, janet.arole@abfrl.adityabirla.com.

The Reserve Bank of India’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% is being made against the backdrop of a difficult global macroeconomic environment for the real estate sector, marked by volatile commodity prices, geopolitical tensions, and persistent inflationary pressures.

 Greater Certainty Strengthens Real Estate’s Investment Outlook

For the housing market, the decision gives buyers more certainty while allowing developers to calibrate launches and execution schedules with demand. The impact is also expected to extend to commercial and mixed-use developments, where visibility into financing is an important factor in expansion plans, capital allocation and leasing activity.

Mrinal Mittal, Managing Director, Homeland Group, said, “The RBI’s decision is a welcome move as it provides policy stability and reinforces confidence across the real estate sector. A stable interest rate environment is crucial for homebuyers, as it preserves affordability and encourages long-term purchasing decisions. We are already witnessing strong end-user demand, particularly in Punjab and the Tricity region, where improved infrastructure, rising incomes and evolving lifestyle aspirations are driving the next phase of residential growth.”

This visibility assumes added importance in emerging residential markets, where end-user demand is closely linked to buyers’ ability to plan their finances. A steady policy environment can also encourage developers to adopt a more calibrated approach to supply, ensuring that new projects are introduced in line with absorption levels and local economic opportunities.

Neeraj Gulati, Managing Director, Assotech, said, “Tier 2 markets, in particular, are likely to benefit from greater certainty around borrowing costs. Demand in such cities is end-user driven, and certainty around borrowing costs is an important factor in determining the long-term ownership decision. The current policy also allows developers to launch their projects in a more disciplined manner, keeping supply aligned with market needs.”

With financing conditions remaining steady, developers can plan project timelines with greater confidence, while investors and institutions gain improved visibility when assessing expansion plans. The neutral stance further supports a measured growth path as the sector responds to global uncertainties without losing sight of domestic demand.

Saurab Saharan, Group Managing Director, HCBS Developments Ltd., said, “A stable interest rate environment enhances homebuyer confidence by ensuring that borrowing costs remain predictable while enabling developers to plan long-term investments with greater certainty. It also allows for long-term planning, enabling the sector to maintain a stable growth path in the context of global uncertainties.”

Karan Malik, Regional Director, Realistic Realtors, said, “Along with the upward revision in the GDP growth projection, the policy sends a reassuring signal for long-term investments across real estate. Stable borrowing conditions support homebuyers, while also providing businesses and institutional investors the confidence to pursue expansion plans across residential, commercial and mixed-use projects.”

The impact of the policy decision extends beyond the initial purchase decision. For developers, greater predictability in financing conditions can support the timely execution of ongoing projects and improve the planning of future launches.

Preksha Singh, CEO, Agrasheel Infra, said, “Housing purchases are long-term financial commitments, and consistency in borrowing costs helps buyers plan with greater confidence while allowing developers to move ahead with project execution and future launches. With the RBI expressing confidence in the economy, the residential market remains well placed to sustain its momentum.”

The rate decision has also been viewed in the context of inflation management and the need to protect domestic demand. With crude prices and other global factors remaining uncertain, a neutral policy stance gives the central bank room to monitor inflationary pressures. This balance is particularly relevant for real estate, where project execution, sales momentum and funding decisions are closely connected.

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, said, “In the current environment, where global crude prices remain volatile, a neutral stance allows policymakers to closely track inflation transmission without disrupting domestic demand cycles. Interest rate stability boosts homebuyers’ confidence and supports sales momentum while enabling developers to keep project execution timelines in sync with market conditions.”

The broader investment environment may also benefit from the greater predictability created by the RBI’s decision. A stable financing backdrop can encourage fresh investments, support enterprise expansion and strengthen capital allocation across growth-oriented sectors. This wider economic stability may reinforce business confidence and investment activity.

Azad Ahmad Lone, President, Biigtech, said, “A predictable financing environment encourages fresh investments, supports enterprise expansion and strengthens capital allocation across growth-oriented sectors. As technology continues to play a larger role in India’s economic transformation, such policy consistency will help sustain business momentum and investment activity.”

Commercial real estate is expected to remain another beneficiary, particularly as businesses evaluate expansion plans and investors assess office and retail assets through a long-term lens.

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, said, “Greater clarity on borrowing costs allows developers to manage capital more efficiently, while businesses can move ahead with expansion plans more confidently. This policy direction is expected to support strong leasing activity across premium office and retail developments, strengthening institutional interest in India’s commercial property market.”

Taken together, the industry responses suggest that the RBI’s rate decision is supporting a more measured phase of real estate growth, marked by disciplined project launches, sustained end-user demand, stronger leasing prospects and greater confidence in long-term capital deployment.

HONOR has been building excitement around the HONOR Robot Phone since it was first previewed at CES 2026, and it received a full reveal at MWC 2026 soon after. A launch in China is expected around August 2026, with an Indian debut likely to follow later in the year, once the device is ready for a wider release. Shoppers who want to plan ahead can already turn to Bajaj Finance’s Easy EMI Loan. It offers a loan offer amount of up to Rs. 5 lakh, a tenure between 3 and 60 months, and access through a large network of 1.5 lakh+ partner stores across India.

HONOR Robot Phone brings an ambitious new concept to smartphones, combining innovative design, AI capabilities and advanced technology in one futuristic device

Specifications at a glance

The HONOR Robot phone is built around a motorised camera arm, a feature that no other mainstream phone currently offers. This alone makes it one of the more talked-about launches of the year, and here is what is expected on the specifications sheet.

• Display: 6.71-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1256×2808 resolution, protected by Giant Rhino Glass

• Chipset: flagship-grade octa-core Snapdragon platform

• RAM and storage: 12GB RAM with 512GB storage

• Rear camera: 200MP main sensor with a 50MP ultra-wide lens, mounted on a motorised gimbal

• Front camera: 50MP

• Battery: 7,000mAh with 120W fast charging and wireless charging support

• Build: IP68 rating for dust and water resistance

• Software: Android 16 with MagicOS

What makes it stand out

The headline feature is a mechanical gimbal with four degrees of motion, built around what HONOR describes as its smallest micro motor yet. This arm can track a subject automatically and hold steady through handheld video. It also rotates for creative angles using AI Spinshot, and it can tilt to keep every participant in frame during a video call. Rather charmingly, it even responds to music, moving in time with the beat.

Beyond the gimbal, the phone also leans on AI for everyday tasks. Object tracking helps with cleaner action shots, and wide-angle group photos no longer require anyone to shuffle into position. Paired with a 7,000mAh battery and 120W charging, the HONOR Robot phone suits people who create as much content as they consume. Those keen to browse HONOR’s wider portfolio can also look at HONOR mobile phones for current models available today.

Pricing in India

Early estimates place the HONOR Robot phone in the higher flagship price band, reflecting its unusual hardware and camera system. Current reports suggest a starting price of around Rs. 99,990, though this figure remains unconfirmed until HONOR confirms Indian availability.

• HONOR Robot phone: expected from around Rs. 99,990

Disclaimer: Prices may change based on availability, offers, and location. Please check the latest price before buying.

Offers on HONOR phones

The HONOR Robot phone will soon reach Indian stores. Buyers looking to bring the phone home on Bajaj Finance Easy EMIs can look forward to these benefits:

• Zero down payment on select models

• Easy EMI Loan options starting from Rs. 830

• Flexible tenures ranging between 3 and 60 months

• Up to 60% off the price of select phones

How to shop on Easy EMIs

The phone will soon launch in India and getting it through Easy EMIs should then be a straightforward process.

• Pick the HONOR Robot phone at a Bajaj Finance partner store

• Check Easy EMI Loan eligibility and choose a repayment tenure that suits, anywhere between 3 and 60 months

• Provide the required KYC details for verification

• Accept the loan offer amount and take the phone home the same day

The HONOR Robot phone marks a genuine departure from familiar smartphone design. Its camera moves, tracks, and reacts almost on its own. For buyers keen to be among the first to own one, an Easy EMI Loan from Bajaj Finance offers a practical way to manage the cost once Indian pricing and availability are confirmed.

India has emerged as one of the world’s leading exporters of education, technology, and skilled talent. Building on this momentum, Edubex Learning, an Indian global edtech company headquartered in Kerala, is expanding access to internationally recognised education across Africa, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and other international markets through AI-enabled learning, globally accredited qualifications, and industry-focused career development.

 

Edubex’s India-based operations support its growing global education ecosystem, connecting learners with internationally recognised programmes and career-focused learning

 

Founded in 2020, Edubex has grown from a small educational initiative into one of the leading international education providers serving Africa, with more than 10,000 learners, 1,000+ graduates, and a comprehensive portfolio of over 200 programmes spanning undergraduate degrees, postgraduate qualifications, professional diplomas, executive education, workforce development, artificial intelligence, business management, healthcare, logistics, digital technologies, and industry-specific short courses.

 

At a time when employers increasingly value practical skills alongside academic qualifications, Edubex is helping bridge the gap between higher education and employability by combining internationally recognised curricula with personalised mentoring and technology-driven learning experiences.

 

Strengthening India’s Global Education Presence

India has earned worldwide recognition as a hub for technology, innovation, and higher education. Edubex is extending this reputation by connecting learners in Africa and beyond with internationally recognised qualifications through strategic partnerships with globally respected universities and awarding organisations.

 

Its academic collaborations include UCAM (Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Spain), Chartered Management Institute (CMI), United Kingdom, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), together with other internationally recognised universities and academic institutions. These partnerships allow learners to earn globally respected qualifications while studying from their home countries, creating opportunities for career progression without geographical barriers.

By providing globally accredited education and practical workforce-focused programmes, the organisation aims to help professionals strengthen their careers while contributing to economic development and knowledge exchange across regions.

Looking Ahead

With digital learning becoming central to workforce transformation worldwide, Edubex continues to invest in academic innovation, AI-enabled education, strategic university collaborations, and globally relevant curricula.

The organisation also looks forward to engaging with universities, policymakers, employers, and international education leaders through global initiatives and industry forums, including the forthcoming Diaspora Economic Forum (DEF) 2026, where education, skills development, innovation, and cross-border collaboration are expected to remain central themes.

As India continues to strengthen its position as a global knowledge economy, Edubex remains committed to exporting educational excellence while empowering learners to build internationally competitive careers.

About Edubex Learning

Edubex Learning is an Indian global edtech company headquartered in Kerala, delivering internationally recognised higher education and professional learning opportunities to students across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and other global markets.

Established in 2020, Edubex has supported more than 10,000 learners through a portfolio of 200+ programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, professional diplomas, executive education, AI and digital technology programmes, workforce development, and industry certifications.

Through partnerships with globally respected institutions including UCAM (Spain), Chartered Management Institute (United Kingdom), Scottish Qualifications Authority (Scotland), and other international academic partners, Edubex continues to expand access to affordable, globally recognised education that prepares learners for success in an increasingly connected world.

Website: www.edubex.com.