BriBooks, in partnership with EducationWorld, hosted the National Young Authors Awards & Exhibition Ceremony 2025–26 on 28th March 2026 in New Delhi — marking the grand culmination of two transformative youth literary movements: the National Young Authors’ Fair (NYAF) and the Summer Book Writing Festival (SBWF).

BriBooks Honours India’s Best Young Authors and Schools at the National Awards & Exhibition 2025–26

The landmark ceremony recognised India’s most gifted young authors, honoured schools fostering literary excellence, and reinforced BriBooks’ position as the world’s largest book writing platform for school students — a platform that has now inspired over 1.4 million students across 32+ countries to write, publish, and share their stories with the world.

A Celebration Graced by India’s Distinguished Leaders

The ceremony brought together an extraordinary gathering of luminaries who lent the event their presence, prestige, and personal conviction in India’s young authors:

• Hon’ble Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi — Former Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Government of India

• Dr. Deepa Malik — Padma Shri Awardee and Former President, Paralympic Committee of India

• Mr. Bhavin Shah — CEO, Education World

• Shri Anish Gawande — Celebrated youth leader and author

• Shri Pankaj Pachauri — Founder & Editor-in-Chief, GoNews

Ami Dror, Founder & President of BriBooks, addressed the audience through a heartfelt video message – applauding the dedication of every young author and reaffirming BriBooks’ unwavering commitment to nurturing India’s next generation of storytellers.

Recognising India’s Best Schools as Literary Leaders

Schools from across India were honoured for cultivating a culture where creativity and storytelling thrive — not as extracurricular afterthoughts, but as core expressions of academic identity.

• India’s Best School Chain Award: Army Welfare Education Society (137 schools, 2.3 lakh students)

• India’s No. 1 Literary Leader: Amalorpavam Higher Secondary School, Puducherry

Other top literary institutions included: Shree Niketan (Rajajipuram), City Montessori School – Aliganj (Lucknow), Amrishbhai R Patel School, and Amalorpavam Lourds Academy (Puducherry).

India’s Top 10 Jury Award Winners – NYAF 2025–26

The Jury Awards celebrated extraordinary originality, narrative depth, and storytelling craft. A distinguished panel evaluated each work for its literary merit, thematic richness, and the maturity of voice – recognising young authors who wrote with a purpose far beyond their years.

1. Abhiram Sai Chimmili — The Clock of Consequence

2. Devisha Shrivastava — The Signal of Unity

3. Prisha Singh — Swapped

4. Ahana Ray — Cell City and the Secret Code

5. Suchismita Dasgupta — The Pages in Between

6. Mansi Thapa — When Silence Stays

7. Umdah Beg — The Bloom That Broke the Law

8. S Monika — Echoes Beyond Time

9. Drishyaa Gupta — Finding Muffin

10. Priyanshi Popat — When the Time Breaks

Abhiram Sai Chimmili was crowned India’s No. 1 Jury Award Winner, setting a benchmark for literary excellence among young writers.

India’s Top 10 Best-Selling Young Authors — NYAF 2025–26

The Best-Selling Author Awards recognised young writers whose stories not only achieved literary merit but resonated powerfully with readers — a rare combination of creative craft and authentic audience connection.

1. Ahaana Changrani — Magicella’s Marine Voyage

2. Rudra Bhangdiya — The Trip to Dubai

3. Abhiraj Shee — The Tale of Jaxon and Elara

4. Nishtha Pal — Good Has Triumphed Over Evil

5. Darsh Devendra Makhija — The Wizard’s Parfait

6. Kshipra Moreker — Marine Biology to Regenerate

7. Hasini Polu — When the Silence Screamed

8. Arjun Rathore — The Secret Bridge

9. Amayra Agrawal — Interesting Stories by Amayra

10. Gianna Narula — Star Adventures

Summer Book Writing Festival 2025 — Creativity Without Boundaries

The SBWF 2025 Awards & Exhibition Ceremony celebrated students who transformed their summer vacation into a season of authorship — proving that imagination, when given direction, needs no classroom.

• India’s No. 1 Jury Choice Award Winner: Namrata Chambyal (Dearest Maisy From The Chasm)

• India’s No. 1 Best-Selling Author: Kshipra Moreker (Beti Padhao)

The event concluded with a powerful fireside chat featuring Jury Winners and Best-Selling Authors — sharing their personal journeys through storytelling, the discipline of writing, and the transformative experience of seeing their words in print. Their insights offered a living proof of what BriBooks enables: young people who don’t just consume stories, but create them.

In Their Own Words

“When children are given the opportunity to write, publish, and share their stories, they don’t just become authors — they become creators of the future.” – Ami Dror, Founder & President, BriBooks

About BriBooks

BriBooks is the world’s largest book writing platform for school students, with a mission to turn every child into a published author. Operating across 32+ countries, BriBooks provides students with the tools, mentorship, and publishing infrastructure to write, design, and launch their own original books. Through its flagship programmes — the National Young Authors’ Fair (NYAF) and the Summer Book Writing Festival (SBWF) — BriBooks has become the most celebrated youth authorship movement in India, empowering over 1.4 million students. 

Website: www.bribooks.com.

Not too long ago, Noida and Ghaziabad were largely viewed as extensions of Delhi NCR rather than destinations in their own right. Today, both markets stand as self-sustaining residential ecosystems, with a distinct premium identity shaped as much by intent as by infrastructure. What’s particularly noteworthy is that this evolution wasn’t accidental; instead, it was driven by a set of developers who chose to invest early, long before the narrative had caught up.
 

Rising skylines, refined living: The evolution of Noida–Ghaziabad into a luxury real estate hub
 

The shift gained real momentum when infrastructure began to align with intent. The Noida Expressway evolved into a defining spine for high-end residential development, while the FNG Expressway started to redraw accessibility across city edges. What followed was developers stepping in to convert connectivity into a credible product, and building not just homes, but a sense of aspiration and long-term trust. Few developers entered at a time when social infrastructure was still finding its footing, and end-user confidence remained tentative at best. Over time, these calculated risks began to compound, turning locations like Sector 150 and 144, Noida Extension, and Siddharth Vihar into some of the region’s most referenced micro-markets.
 

At the heart of this evolution are developers who approached the market with sharply defined philosophies, each distinctly shaping the region.
 

Gulshan Group – Strengthening its presence in the luxury segment, Gulshan Group has partnered with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) to bring a landmark hospitality-led development to Noida. The project will feature the country’s tallest Taj hotel along with branded serviced residences, introducing a new dimension of refined, service-driven living to the Noida Expressway. With residences in the Rs. 35–40 crore range, the development is positioned to offer a seamless blend of design, comfort, and the signature hospitality experience associated with the Taj brand, catering to a discerning segment seeking elevated urban lifestyles.
 

Nimbus Group – With a legacy rooted in early investments across emerging corridors, Nimbus Group has evolved into a developer known for strengthening buyer confidence in Noida’s growth micro-markets through a balanced focus on timely delivery, functional design, and long-term livability. Its project, Nimbus The Arista Luxe in Sector 168, exemplifies this approach with thoughtfully planned residences that prioritise open green spaces, efficient layouts, and understated luxury, complemented by double-height entrance lobbies and integrated smart home features. Building on this, the development also introduces a strong wellness-led proposition, with homes designed to maintain indoor air quality (AQI) below 50 through advanced filtration systems- reflecting a shift towards healthier, future-ready urban living.
 

Prateek Group – As one of the earliest luxury developers in Noida, Prateek Group launched the region’s first luxury project, Prateek Stylome, in 2011, followed by Prateek Edifice in 2013 — steadily raising the bar in NCR’s real estate market. Its integrated township, Prateek Grand City in Siddharth Vihar, blends scale with open spaces and lifestyle amenities, while Prateek Canary in Sec-150 Noida offers low-density living with privacy and a premium feel. Through a consistent focus on livability and design, the Group has been instrumental in building buyer confidence in high-value housing.
 

County Group – Operating at the upper end of the spectrum, the Group’s boutique developments have steadily pushed the market beyond conventional premium. Projects like Jade County in Wave City and Clove County in Sector 151, Noida, bring in a more refined, design-led sensibility to emerging and established micro-markets alike, and shape a distinctly aspirational luxury narrative.
 

Experion Developers – An FDI-backed real estate firm, Experion Developers applies a disciplined methodology to residential projects. Following Experion Elements, the firm launched its second project, SAATORI, in Sector 151, Noida, along the Noida Expressway. This low-density, Japanese-inspired community offers three high-rise towers with few residences per core. The company has recently crossed Rs 1800 crore sales for this luxury residential venture. With a strong focus on wellness, green spaces, and globally influenced design, the project underscores Experion’s commitment to crafting future-ready living environments.
 

Delhi NCR recorded 9,677 new residential unit launches in Q1 2026, 26% jump year-on-year basis. Greater Noida and Noida contributed 23% and 4% share, respectively. Sector 150, for instance, emerged as a low-density, lifestyle-driven enclave where planning took precedence over pace, while sectors 144 and 143 along the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway evolved into a definitive premium belt, anchored by consistent developer activity.
 

In many ways, the trajectory of these markets reflects a gradual de-risking led by developers. What began as calculated bets on the outskirts has now turned into NCR’s most established residential landmarks, proving that in real estate, conviction often precedes consensus.

Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory Global Spirits and one of the world’s most respected spirits artisans, visited India for an exclusive engagement centered on Hibiki, Suntory’s iconic blended Japanese spirits and a defining expression of harmony in spirits making. The visit marked a curated evening dedicated to the artistry, philosophy and craftsmanship that have established Hibiki as a global symbol of Japanese spirits.
 

Shinji Fukuyo brought the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to India, celebrating the artistry behind Hibiki – a true icon from Suntory Global Spirits
 

As the fifth-generation Chief Blender in Suntory’s century-long legacy, Fukuyo represents a lineage of mastery that underpins Hibiki’s creation. Central to this is the Japanese philosophy of Wa, or harmony, where balance, subtlety, and depth are achieved through precise and thoughtful blending. His visit brought together Japan’s storied spirits heritage and India’s appreciation for refined, premium spirits, with Hibiki at the heart of the experience.

A Curated Hibiki Experience

This year’s edition unfolded across two marquee locations, Madeleine de Proust at Fairmont, Mumbai and The Collections at Four Seasons, Bengaluru as intimate, immersive showcases designed to bring the world of Hibiki to life. The exclusive tasting and masterclass-led evenings brought together spirits connoisseurs, industry leaders and tastemakers for a sensorial journey through Hibiki’s layered artistry, guided by the expertise of Shinji Fukuyo.

In Bengaluru, the experience extended into thoughtful cultural expressions, from an ice carving showcase led by Robert Hospet, Portfolio Advocate, South India, Suntory Global Spirits, to a calligraphy station offering personalised mementos for the guests. Created using traditional Japanese brush techniques and minimalist design, these elements reflected a quiet interplay of time, precision and transformation, echoing the harmony that defines every pour of Hibiki.

At its core was an exploration of Hibiki’s blending philosophy, rooted in the ideals of Miyabi, a Japanese concept of elegance and refinement that elevates nature into art. Guests were introduced to the meticulous process behind Hibiki, which harmoniously blends spirits from the Yamazaki, Hakushu Chita distilleries, each contributing to a precise balance between people and nature.

Matured across a range of casks—including American white oak, Spanish oak and rare Mizunara oak—Hibiki reveals its complexity through integration rather than intensity. Fukuyo shared insights into the Japanese approach to blending, where patience, sensitivity and respect for nature guide every decision, resulting in a spirits defined by elegance, depth and balance.

Symbolism Rooted in Harmony

The event also explored the symbolism embedded in Hibiki’s design—from the bottle’s 24 facets representing the Japanese lunar calendar and the passage of time, to the washi paper label and nuanced colour palette. These elements reflect the natural rhythms and aesthetic principles that define Hibiki’s character. This philosophy was echoed throughout the event, drawing subtle parallels between Japanese traditions and India’s own rich heritage of craftsmanship, ritual and storytelling.

Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender, Suntory Global Spirits, said: “Hibiki is an expression of harmony, bringing together nature, craftsmanship, and time in a way that is both subtle and deeply layered. In Japan, we pursue balance and refinement with great care, and Hibiki reflects this philosophy in every detail. It was a pleasure to share this approach with guests in India, where there is a growing appreciation for authenticity, craftsmanship, and the quiet beauty of Japanese spirits.”

For more information on Hibiki, please visit house.suntory.com/hibiki-spirits

WHEN:

March 31, 2026 – Mumbai

April 2, 2026 – Bengaluru

WHERE:

Fairmont Hotel, Mumbai

Four Seasons Hotel, Bengaluru

Infrastructure in NCR has never merely connected locations; it has consistently reshaped real estate trajectories. Big ticket developments like the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway are beginning to do the same, but with a more distinct shift in direction. As improved connectivity brings Dehradun within closer reach, the conversation is moving toward where and how people choose to live, and which projects are best placed to respond to that shift.

How the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway is Redefining Real Estate Opportunities

With travel time set to reduce from nearly 6–7 hours to approximately 2.5 hours, Dehradun is no longer positioned as a distant retreat. Instead, it is rapidly transitioning into a viable residential extension of NCR. This structural shift is influencing not just accessibility, but also buyer intent, moving from occasional visits to more sustained and frequent usage of homes in the region.

Moreover, this evolving demand dynamic is already beginning to reflect in market indicators. A Magicbricks report highlighted that housing demand across hill destinations grew by 8.2% year-on-year during July–September 2025. Within this, Dehradun recorded one of the sharpest price appreciations at 30.9%, underscoring renewed interest in premium second-home and lifestyle-driven residential markets.

However, the opportunity along this corridor is not uniform. As with any emerging market, value creation is concentrated in projects that are thoughtfully positioned where location, planning, and product differentiation align with evolving buyer expectations. 

It is within this context that developments like Excentia Tatva begin to stand out. Located on Rajpur Road, arguably one of Dehradun’s most established and premium residential corridors, Excentia Tatva responds directly to this shift in demand. Unlike high-density developments that rely on scale, the project adopts a consciously low-density approach, catering to a segment where exclusivity, space, and long-term liveability are key decision drivers.

What distinguishes the development in the current market is not just its location, but how it translates infrastructure-led growth into tangible living value. As connectivity improves, buyers are no longer evaluating second homes purely as investment assets; they are increasingly seeking environments that can function as true extensions of their primary residence. 

Excentia Tatva aligns closely with this evolving preference. Its planning integrates natural and cultural context into the living experience, anchored around a preserved 200-year-old tree courtyard and situated in proximity to spiritual landmarks such as Maa Anandmayee Ashram and Shri Aurobindo Ashram. This contextual integration adds a layer of depth that goes beyond conventional residential offerings.

At the same time, the project reflects a growing emphasis on sustainability and long-term liveability. As one of the early IGBC pre-certified gold-rated residential developments in Dehradun, it incorporates design principles focused on natural light, ventilation, and open green spaces; factors that are increasingly central to buyer decision-making, especially in low AQI environments.

Besides, today, buyers are not looking for standalone apartments, but for self-sustained ecosystems that can support extended stays. Excentia Tatva’s ecosystem of amenities, from a five-star clubhouse and rooftop terraces to an infinity pool and wellness-focused facilities, positions itself as a more self-contained residential environment. In a market that is transitioning from tourism-led to residential-led demand, such features become critical in sustaining both user interest and investment value.

“The opportunity along the Delhi–Dehradun corridor is not just about improved access; it is about how certain projects are positioned to benefit from that shift. In a market that is still in a phase of value discovery, developments that are differentiated by design, density, and location are better placed to create long-term value. Excentia Tatva reflects this approach by focusing on a segment where supply remains limited, but demand is becoming increasingly defined,” said Manit Sethi, Director, Excentia Tatva.

A growing segment of NCR-based professionals and entrepreneurs is now actively seeking alternatives to high-density urban living—prioritising space, privacy, and a stronger connection to nature, without compromising on quality and convenience. Excentia Tatva’s low-density planning and its location within an established, well-connected micro-market allow it to directly cater to this demand. As a result, it is increasingly being viewed not just as a second-home investment, but as a flexible residential option that can adapt to changing lifestyle needs.

“What we are witnessing is a structural shift in how second homes are perceived. They are no longer occasional-use assets, but extensions of everyday living. Projects that can deliver both experiential value and functional liveability are far better positioned to see sustained demand. The focus is clearly moving toward environments that offer cleaner air, lower density, and a more balanced way of living,” added Aniket Sethi, Director, Excentia Tatva.

As the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway continues to enhance regional connectivity, its real impact will unfold through the performance of projects that are able to translate this advantage into long-term value. While the broader market will benefit from improved access, it is developments with strong fundamentals that are likely to lead this next phase of growth. Amidst this, Excentia Tatva represents how infrastructure-led transformation is beginning to shape not just where people invest, but how they choose to live.

In a significant step towards strengthening women empowerment and fostering a women-friendly social ecosystem, Noida Police organized the Mission Shakti Samman Samaroh 2026 on April 9, 2026, at the Police Commissionerate Office, Sector-110, Noida. The event was held under the vision of Empowered Women, Prosperous State as part of the fifth phase of Mission Shakti, aimed at recognizing individuals from varied field of who were contributing to women empowerment, social harmony, and the peaceful resolution of family and community disputes.

Galgotias University faculty felicitated during Mission Shakti Samman Samaroh 2026 at Police Commissionerate Gautam Buddh Nagar

The ceremony was graced by DIG Rajeev Narain Mishra, Additional Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Police Commissionerate, Gautam Buddh Nagar, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted the wide-ranging women-centric initiatives undertaken by the police, including community engagement, awareness programs, safety mechanisms, and collaborative governance. He emphasized that true women empowerment extends beyond mediation and requires continuous efforts in education, safety, employment support, and building trust between citizens and law enforcement.

Prof. Dr. Shivangi Sharma from school of Law and Prof. Dr. Kumar Ashutosh, from school of Liberal Education, of Galgotias University, were felicitated along with other women achievers by DIG Rajeev Narain Mishra, Additional Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Police Commissionerate, Gautam Buddh Nagar, in recognition of their dedicated role in mediation and family dispute resolution.

The event also recognized distinguished women achievers from sectors such as banking, manufacturing, sports, media, and social work. These individuals were honored for their professional excellence as well as their active role in supporting initiatives that promote a safe, inclusive, and women-friendly environment.

Ms. Anukriti Sharma, DCP Women Safety, elaborated on the collaborative approach adopted by the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissionerate in working with citizens to educate, empower, and enable the district as a women-safe space. She highlighted key initiatives under Naari Shakti, including the impactful Pink Booths, which have significantly strengthened public trust and accessibility for women.

The event underscored the importance of collective efforts by law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, professionals, and civil society in driving meaningful social change. Mission Shakti Samman Samaroh 2026 served as a powerful platform to honour change-makers and inspire continued community participation toward women empowerment.

The ceremony concluded with the presence of senior police officials, academicians, social leaders, media representatives, and other distinguished guests, marking another milestone in the ongoing journey toward a safer and more inclusive society. 

About Galgotias University
Galgotias University is among the world’s leading universities in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS Rankings) and Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings.

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities, this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education. Galgotias has also been accredited with NAAC A+ grade in its very first cycle, achieving these milestones in a record time of just 14 years.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This recognition reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic landscape and reflects its consistent progress across global higher education benchmarks.

Bisleri International installed 10 recycled plastic benches at the Dwarkadhish Temple (Gujarat) premises under its flagship sustainability initiative, Bottles for Change. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr Himanshu Chauhan, Administrator (Mamlatdar), Dwarkadhish Temple (Gujarat), along with the Deputy Mamlatdar, temple pujaris, members of the Dwarkadhish Temple Committee and representative from Bisleri Vidya Bhooshan, Regional CSR Manager North.
 

As part of the Greener Promise campaign, Bisleri has installed benches made from recycled plastic at the Dwarkadhish Temple
 

The recycled plastic benches demonstrate how post-consumer plastic can be transformed into functional infrastructure rather than discarded as waste. Each bench has been crafted using approximately 40,000 recycled plastic bottle caps, showcasing the potential of sustainable innovation in everyday environments. Adding a meaningful social dimension to the initiative, the backdrop of the benches is painted by The Mouth & Foot Painting Artists (MFPA). Their perspectives give the benches an aesthetic appeal and reflect creativity, inclusion and empowerment.
 

Mr Himanshu Chauhan, Administrator (Mamlatdar), Dwarkadhish Temple, said, “The recycled plastic benches at the Dwarkadhish Temple not only provide functional infrastructure for devotees but also encourage people to adopt sustainable practices and contribute towards a cleaner and greener future. We appreciate Bisleri’s efforts in promoting sustainability and bringing their efforts closer to communities.”
 

Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International reinforced the company’s commitment to sustainability stating, “Bottles for Change continues to serve as a key pillar of Bisleri’s sustainability efforts. The installation at Dwarkadhish Temple aims to encourage thousands of devotees visiting the temple to adopt responsible waste disposal practices and become active participants in recycling efforts. By placing sustainable infrastructure in high-footfall public spaces, Bisleri continues to drive behavioral changes and strengthen community participation in environmental conservation.”
 

Through these meaningful initiatives, Bisleri International continues to lead in sustainability and champion the circular economy, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
 

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country’s largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

• Marking a step towards PayU’s roadmap to becoming an AI-native organization across the merchant lifecycle

• PayU’s AI-powered voice agent engages, verifies, and onboards merchants through natural conversational interactions in English and Hindi, with plans to scale across multiple languages

PayU, a leading diversified fintech platform, has today announced the launch of its AI-Powered Outbound Voice Call Assistant, marking a key step in its broader strategy of becoming an AI-native organization across the merchant lifecycle.

PayU’s AI-powered voice agent engages, verifies, and onboards merchants through natural conversational interactions in English and Hindi, with plans to scale across multiple languages

Merchant onboarding has traditionally been a cumbersome and time-consuming process, involving extensive paperwork, KYC verification, and multiple activation steps, often leading to delays, friction, and merchant drop-offs.

To address these challenges, PayU’s AI-powered Voice Call Assistant proactively engages merchant leads, especially those who have not initiated their onboarding journey. Through natural, conversational interactions in English and Hindi, the assistant guides merchants through the onboarding process while capturing essential business information such as website details, expected revenue, and business category. This enables faster verification, improved lead qualification, and significantly reduces drop-offs by connecting merchants with the right support at the right time, while enabling seamless handover to account managers for timely human intervention.

“We’re entering an era where Voice AI is becoming a core driver of how businesses operate and grow,” said Manas Mishra, Chief Product Officer, PayU and Wibmo. “At PayU, we are steadily building an AI-native platform where merchants remain at the center of every innovation. Our AI-Powered Outbound Voice Call Assistant is one example of how we are removing friction across the merchant lifecycle, from onboarding to activation and beyond, while enabling our teams to focus on deeper, high-impact engagement.”

PayU further intends to expand Voice AI deployment to additional merchant touchpoints, including KYC drop-off recovery, activation workflows, new product requests, and cross-sell opportunities and scale it across multiple languages to serve a broader merchant base.

About PayU

PayU, India’s leading diversified fintech platform with Prosus as an investor, operates businesses that are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and offers advanced solutions to meet the digital financial services needs of customers (merchants, banks, and consumers). 
 

PayU provides payment gateway solutions to online businesses through its cutting-edge and award-winning technology and has empowered 4.5 lakhs+ businesses, including India’s leading enterprises, e-commerce giants and SMBs. It enables businesses to collect digital payments across 100+ online payment methods such as Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Net Banking, EMIs, pay-later, QR, UPI, Wallets, and more. It’s a preferred partner in the affordability ecosystem, offering the maximum coverage of issuers and easy-to-implement integrations across card-based EMIs, pay-later options and new-age cardless EMIs. PayU offers e-commerce brands best-in-industry success rates while ensuring a seamless checkout experience.

GoCredit, a financial intelligence platform, has launched India’s first AI-powered Loan Agent, a conversational system that enables borrowers to discover, match, and apply for personal loans through a single chat-based interaction. The product has been in production since March 2026, processing real loan applications.

GoCredit’s AI Loan Agent aims to automate the complete loan application journey for borrowers

GoCredit has facilitated over Rs. 100 crore in loan disbursals, generated more than 15 million loan offers, and served over 2 million borrowers across 55+ lending partners.

A New Chapter in India’s Credit Evolution

India’s lending ecosystem has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last decade. Deliberate regulatory design by the Reserve Bank of India — from the Co-Lending Model framework to Digital Lending Guidelines to the Account Aggregator infrastructure — has enabled a sophisticated system where banks provide low-cost capital and NBFCs deploy data-driven underwriting to reach borrowers that traditional banking infrastructure cannot serve alone.
 

GoCredit’s AI Loan Agent represents the next step in this evolution: bringing the same intelligence and efficiency to the borrower’s side of the transaction.

What the Loan Agent Does

Today, a borrower seeking a personal loan typically downloads multiple apps, re-enters the same details on each, and triggers separate hard inquiries on their bureau report with every application — negatively impacting the very credit score they need to qualify. The act of seeking credit makes it harder to get credit.

The AI Loan Agent, live on the GoCredit platform, eliminates this cycle. The borrower describes their requirement once. The agent identifies the best-fit lender and submits a single consent-based application. No duplicate forms. No scattershot inquiries. The borrower’s credit identity stays protected. While the Loan Agent currently lives on GoCredit platform, the company’s longer-term vision is to make this intelligence layer available across the broader lending ecosystem.

The agent lives with GoCredit’s first lending partner, processing applications daily. Additional integrations are rolling out in monthly waves through 2026.

“RBI has built the regulatory architecture that lets India’s lending system work brilliantly at the institutional level — banks providing capital, NBFCs providing intelligence, frameworks like Co-Lending making the connection seamless. What’s been missing is someone on the borrower’s side. The Loan Agent is our answer: an AI that represents the borrower inside this system, not just another app that makes them navigate it alone.” – Anupam Acharya, Co-Founder & CEO, GoCredit.

What This Means for Borrowers and Lenders

For borrowers, the Loan Agent changes the economics of seeking credit. Instead of downloading multiple apps and absorbing hard inquiry damage across scattered applications, the borrower makes one informed decision through a single conversation. The agent handles profile assessment, lender matching, and consent-based application submission — replacing a process that typically takes days and costs the borrower credit score points with one that takes minutes and costs them nothing.
 

“We designed the agent on consent-based automation — no proprietary API dependency on any lender, no bilateral integration per partner. That architecture is what lets us onboard new lending partners in days instead of quarters, and it’s how we’ll scale to fifty partners without the system collapsing under its own complexity.” – Shubham Arawkar, Co-Founder & CTO, GoCredit.

For lenders, the agent delivers pre-qualified, consent-verified, high-intent borrowers — matched to their specific approval criteria before the application is submitted. Early production data shows a 25 per cent improvement in conversion from offer click to KYC completion, driven by the agent’s ability to match borrowers to the right lender before the journey begins. With full roll-out across lending partners, GoCredit projects a significant boost in application-to-disbursal conversion — translating directly into lower operational costs per loan for lenders. Fewer wasted credit pulls, fewer abandoned applications, fewer resources spent on borrowers who were never going to qualify.

The Next Evolution of the Loan Journey

The Indian loan journey has evolved in distinct phases. The first era brought applications to bank branches. The second moved them to apps — digital forms, aggregators, instant pre-approvals. Each phase reduced friction but kept the borrower as the one doing the work.
 

“The core challenge was building a system that can assess a borrower’s profile, match it against multiple lenders’ criteria, and submit a fully compliant application, all while keeping it cost-effective at scale and making the experience feel human. A borrower applying for a loan is already stressed. The agent had to feel like a friend helping them through paperwork, not another system throwing forms at them. Making that work with real users and real money is where the actual engineering went.“ – Pranav Murali, Co-Founder & Lead AI Engineer, GoCredit.

AI loan agents represent the next leap: the era where applications disappear altogether. The agent doesn’t digitise the old journey — it replaces it with a fundamentally different interaction. One conversation, intelligent matching, consent-based automation, and an outcome that benefits the entire ecosystem — borrowers get better terms, lenders get higher-quality applicants, and the credit system operates more efficiently at every layer.

GoCredit is an AI Powered credit platform now with a 55+lender marketplace serving millions of Indian borrowers.

About GoCredit

GoCredit is a financial intelligence platform for India’s middle class. The company has facilitated over Rs. 100 crore in loan disbursals, generated more than 15 million loan offers for over 2 million borrowers, and integrated 55+ lending partners — built by a five-member founding team. GoCredit’s product suite includes India’s first AI-powered Loan Agent and AI-driven credit score forecasting. The company’s R&D division, TARA AI Labs, publishes research on behavioural credit modeling and responsible AI in the fintech domain.

Website: gocredit.money

Ai+ Smartphone has announced the commencement of sales of its latest device, Nova 2, as part of the newly launched Nova Series. Designed for everyday reliability and expressive personal style, the Nova 2 is available exclusively on Flipkart and select retail outlets starting April 14.

Ai+ Nova 2 goes on sale

The Ai+ Nova 2 will be available at the following pricing:
4GB + 64GB | Rs. 8,999
6GB + 128GB | Rs. 10,999

“The Nova Series is our strongest expression yet of what Ai+ stands for, technology that is accessible, reliable, and built for real everyday use. With Nova 2, we wanted to make sure that users who are upgrading for the first time or switching to Ai+ find everything they need without compromise. We are excited to open sales on April 14 and bring more users into the Ai+ ecosystem,” said Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies.

Performance That Powers Your Day
The Nova 2 is equipped with a 6000mAh battery designed to keep up with a full day of streaming, browsing, gaming, and multitasking. It runs on Android 16 with NxtQuantum OS, delivering a smooth and optimised experience straight out of the box. Featuring a 6.745-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and HBM support, the Nova 2 delivers fluid visuals and seamless scrolling whether users are consuming content or navigating everyday tasks.

A Camera and Design Built for Everyday Life
The smartphone comes with a 50MP rear camera designed to capture sharp, natural images across lighting conditions, along with an 8MP front camera for clear selfies and video calls. The Nova 2 further features a refined build with IP64 resistance and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, available in five distinct colours – Purple, Green, Pink, Blue, and Black – each designed to reflect a different personality.

About 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 authored in India and globally competitive.

Crietor Group, a purposeful investment holding company with a dynamic portfolio spanning real estate and retail, today announced the launch of The Skye – a landmark luxury residential development positioned as India’s first intent-based private residences designed exclusively for visionaries. The announcement was accompanied by the release of The Skye – My Vision for Visionaries, a book authored by Mr. Iflu Rahman, Founder and Managing Director of Crietor Group, that articulates the philosophical DNA behind the project.

Mr. Iflu Rahman, Founder and Managing Director, Crietor Group, Ms. Dadu Iflu, Executive Director, Crietor Group, along with other Directors during The Skye launch event

The Skye has also signed Bollywood actress Shriya Saran – acclaimed for her pan-India appeal and brand associations with Pantene, Lux, Coca-Cola, and Colgate – as its official brand ambassador, signalling the project’s national ambitions and aspirational positioning.

A Home That Shapes the Visionary
Rooted in the philosophy ‘Going, growing and glowing together’, Crietor Group has long committed itself to creating experiences that go beyond transactions. With The Skye, that commitment finds its most ambitious expression yet – a living environment intentionally designed to sharpen thinking, unlock potential, and elevate everyday life.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Iflu Rahman, Founder & Managing Director, Crietor Group, said, “I believe there is a home behind every visionary. A shift in space is not just emotional, it is scientific. The right environment has the power to unlock deeper clarity, sharper thinking, and greater potential. Visionaries like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates chose serene, intentional settings to shape their lives and ideas. Because every visionary is meant to fly, and to truly fly, they need the sky.”

The Project: India’s Most Elevated Address
Situated at Kashmir Kunnu, a rare tabletop terrain overlooking mist-laden green valleys in Kozhikode, Kerala, The Skye offers a setting of singular natural grandeur – just 12 minutes from the city centre. As Mr. Rahman noted, “The Skye cannot be replicated, for it is nature’s singular and spectacular gift.”

Key Project Highlights:

• Total Area: 10 acres

• Residences: 62 exclusive private luxury homes

• Individual Land Parcels: 7 cents to 12 cents

• Built-Up Area: 3,200 sq. ft. to 5,700 sq. ft.

• Pricing: Starting from Rs. 2.6 Crore onwards (excl. GST & statutory charges)

• Total Project Value: Approximately Rs. 250 Crore

World-Class Amenities for the Discerning Few
The Skye is anchored by a 22,000 sq. ft. clubhouse and penthouse facility, complemented by a curated suite of premium amenities:

• 20-metre swimming pool

• 150-seater conference hall

• Putting mini-golf course & pickleball court

• 1.5 km cycling and jogging track

• Valley view deck

• Functional helipad

Connectivity within the development is equally seamless, with a direct 600-metre access from a 7-metre-wide highway opening into well-laid 9-metre-wide internal roads.

Architecture That Lives and Breathes with Nature
The architecture of The Skye is designed to dissolve the boundary between the built and the natural. Rather than treating the landscape as a backdrop, the design allows the outside to flow inward — creating a continuous, immersive interaction between space, nature, and self.

Mr. Derriel John, COO, Crietor Realty, described the project as “futuristic in its essence, defined by a rare location, timeless architecture, thoughtfully designed amenities, and seamless access to key utilities” — adding that it is “more than a home, an investment in a living work of art that continues to appreciate through its rarity and lasting relevance.”

A Cultural Statement: Shriya Saran & an Exclusive Musical Score
Ms. Dadu Iflu, Executive Director, Crietor Group, noted, “The Skye is already a meeting place of visionaries. Shriya Saran, acclaimed for her pan-Indian appeal as an actor and top-brand endorsements like Pantene, Lux, Coca-Cola, and Colgate, joins as The Skye’s brand ambassador, while Zeba Tommy, the voice behind ‘Queen of the Night’ from Lokah, delivers an exclusive track for the walkthrough.”

The collaboration with Shriya Saran – one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable faces with audiences spanning from Kerala to Mumbai to the Indian diaspora worldwide – underscores The Skye’s positioning as a nationally relevant, culturally resonant luxury development.

The Book: A Manifesto for Elevated Living
The Skye – My Vision for Visionaries is both a philosophical treatise and a creative blueprint. It reframes the concept of a home as an active participant in a person’s growth journey — arguing that spaces crafted with clear intent begin to shape how people think, create, and lead. The book draws on the lives of global icons who chose intentional environments to do their best work, and concludes with an invitation: the future is not something to wait for, but something to design and inhabit.

About Crietor Group
Crietor Group is an innovative investment holding company driven by purpose that extends beyond financial returns. Operating across real estate, retail, and allied sectors, the Group is guided by its enduring credo: Future Holds Good. Committed to sustainable practices, inclusive growth, and long-term value creation, Crietor Group enables its stakeholders to become active participants in shaping a better world.

Website: www.crietorgroup.com

The Skye is not just about residences. It is an exclusive and full-fledged environment for those who seek to expand the horizons of their vision. At Crietor, everyone says: “The Skye is the limit.”