3, Aug 2026
Rela Hospital Hosts 3-Km Walkathon to Observe World Breastfeeding Week
Chennai, Aug. 3, 2026: In observance of World Breastfeeding Week, Rela Hospital organised a three-kilometre walkathon from its hospital premises at Chrompet. Over 200 healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, took part in the event along with members of the public.
The walkathon was flagged off by Dr Naresh Shanmugam, Director of Women and Child Health, Rela Hospital.
World Breastfeeding Week has been observed annually between August 1 and 7 across the globe to create awareness among the public about the importance of breastfeeding for infants. This year’s theme is ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen That Works’, focusing on tracking progress, evaluating impact, and scaling proven approaches that improve breastfeeding outcomes.
This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) calls on everyone, including governments, communities, and families, to build on successful experiences and strengthen the chain of support for breastfeeding.
Research says that breast milk is a biologically active fluid that changes over time to meet the requirements of an infant. It contains the right balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, easily digestible proteins, and vitamins and minerals. Over the feeding period, breast milk changes in composition from colostrum, which is rich in antibodies and protein, to transitional milk and then to mature milk.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21), about 63.7% of infants under the age of six months are exclusively breastfed, and only 41.8% are breastfed within the first hour of life, calling for greater awareness among new mothers and their family members.
Dr Naresh Shanmugam stated: “Breastfeeding provides complete nutrition to infants. It strengthens immunity, supports brain and gut development, and lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. It also offers significant health benefits to new mothers by supporting both physical recovery and emotional bonding. Despite its numerous benefits, public awareness regarding breastfeeding continues to remain low.”
“As we observe World Breastfeeding Week, let us reaffirm our responsibility to create supportive environments for every mother who chooses to breastfeed. They deserve every possible bit of encouragement, knowledge, and care,” he added.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
3, Aug 2026
GWI report shows wellness as new baseline for Dubai luxury real estate
Keturah founder says industry needs to work together to catch up with government vision, market momentum
Dubai, UAE, Aug 3: Dubai’s luxury real estate developers are being urged to treat wellness as the new baseline for how homes are designed and built, as global demand grows for healthier living environments.
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) says the industry’s next phase is the normalization of health-supportive design as a standard expectation rather than a luxury feature.
It believes the greatest opportunity now lies in closer collaboration between planners, architects, public health leaders and wellness professionals to create homes and communities that proactively support long-term health.
Dubai Luxury developer Keturah has backed the GWI’s findings, saying the shift towards health-focused design presents an opportunity for the wider industry to work together in raising standards, and reinforcing city’s position as a global leader in wellness real estate.
“The next phase for the industry is collaboration rather than competition,” said Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of Keturah. “We need planners, architects, public health leaders and wellness professionals working together, not developers acting alone. Dubai has the government vision and the market momentum to lead this globally, and now the wider industry needs to catch up.”
The GWI’s latest Initiative Trends report projects the global wellness real estate sector will exceed $1 trillion by 2029, reflecting a transition from wellness as a luxury aspiration to evidence-based infrastructure.
Earlier this year, the GWI identified the UAE as one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness real estate markets. It said wellness real estate now represents more than 12% of all construction in the UAE, with the market having grown from $3.3 billion to $14.6 billion between 2017 and 2025.
It also reported that more than 555,000 wellness-focused residential units were in the pipeline at developments across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In Dubai, these include Keturah Reserve, the AED5.7 billion bio-living community in Mohammed Bin Rashid City’s District 7, and the Ritz-Carlton Residences at Keturah Resort beside Dubai Creek, set to become the region’s first wellness-certified waterfront community.
The four main wellness in real estate trends highlighted by the GWI include primal architecture, which uses softer lighting, natural materials and intuitive wayfinding to help shift occupants from stress to calm. Another is neuroarchitecture, which applies neuroscience to understand how light, acoustics and spatial design influence mood, cognition and long-term health.
The GWI also identifies a growing move towards designing out microplastics by replacing synthetic finishes with more natural materials such as wool, stone and solid wood, recognising the built environment as an important part of preventive healthcare.
It also highlights the role of healthier, more walkable communities in supporting mobility, independence and ageing well, with better designed surroundings helping people maintain wellbeing throughout their lives.
2, Aug 2026
Darsh Labs and Research Earns NABL Accreditation, Reinforcing Commitment to Quality and Scientific Excellence
Bhubaneswar, August 2, 2026: Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd. has reached a major milestone by securing National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation, a prestigious recognition that reflects the laboratory’s commitment to quality, precision, and technical competence in testing services.
The accreditation demonstrates that the laboratory operates under a robust quality management system and follows internationally accepted testing standards, ensuring reliable and accurate results for customers across industries.
This achievement marks a new chapter for Darsh Labs and Research as it continues to expand its portfolio of laboratory services while maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity and customer confidence.
Commenting on the accomplishment, Neelakantha Achary, MD of Darsh Labs and Research, said:
“NABL accreditation is more than a certification—it is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, accuracy, and continuous improvement. We are grateful to our dedicated team whose expertise and hard work made this achievement possible. This recognition strengthens our resolve to deliver dependable laboratory services that industries, government agencies, and individuals can trust.”
Over the years, Darsh Labs and Research has invested significantly in advanced analytical instruments, modern laboratory infrastructure, quality assurance systems, and skilled technical professionals. The NABL accreditation validates these efforts and positions the laboratory among India’s trusted testing facilities.
The laboratory provides a wide range of scientific testing services, including:
- Water Testing
- Drinking Water Quality Analysis
- Wastewater Testing
- Environmental Monitoring
- Air Quality Testing
- Soil Testing
- Food Testing
- Coal and Mineral Analysis
- Material Testing
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
- Industrial and Regulatory Compliance Testing
With the accreditation, clients can expect testing services that meet stringent quality benchmarks, offering greater confidence in analytical reports used for regulatory compliance, industrial processes, environmental management, research, and public health initiatives.
Darsh Labs and Research aims to support industries, government departments, infrastructure projects, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and businesses by delivering scientifically accurate and timely testing solutions.
The company also plans to broaden its testing capabilities and strengthen its research initiatives, contributing to safer industries, cleaner environments, and improved quality standards across sectors.
About Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd.
Darsh Labs and Research Pvt. Ltd. is one of the best water testing laboratory based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The Darsh Labsoffers comprehensive water testing, inspection, and research services across environmental, industrial, water, food, material, and mineral sectors. Driven by scientific excellence, technological innovation, and customer-centric service, the company is committed to delivering accurate, reliable, and timely laboratory solutions that help organizations make informed decisions and meet regulatory requirements.
1, Aug 2026
Rainfall System Loses Strength as Low Pressure Area Moves Across Rajasthan
Aug 1: The weather system that affected parts of the Odisha-West Bengal coast has weakened significantly, turning into a well-marked low pressure area over southeast Rajasthan and adjoining regions, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The system, which developed over the northwest Bay of Bengal, travelled inland over the past seven days and brought rainfall activity across several areas before gradually losing intensity.
The IMD said the system had earlier weakened from a deep depression into a depression while moving through southwest Madhya Pradesh, East Rajasthan, and Gujarat regions. It later transformed into a well-marked low pressure area over southeast Rajasthan and nearby areas.
The weather system is expected to continue moving west-northwestwards across south Rajasthan and weaken further into a low pressure area within the next 24 hours.
As the system loses strength, rainfall activity associated with it is likely to reduce gradually. Weather authorities continue to monitor developments and have advised people to remain alert to local weather updates.
1, Aug 2026
R|Elan Circular Design Challenge In Partnership With The United Nations in India Completes Global Jury Rounds; India Finalists Join International Cohort Stepping Into Next Phase Of The Challenge
EMBARGOED UNTIL: August 01: 2:00 PM IST – The R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (RCDC), India’s leading global platform for circular innovation in fashion and textiles, presented by Reliance Industries Limited’s R|Elan™, the United Nations in India, and Lakmé Fashion Week, has concluded its global jury rounds with the announcement of the India Finalists, completing this year’s international cohort of innovators redefining the future of circular fashion.
Following a rigorous evaluation by the India Jury, Botto Labs by Nitya Amarnath, pioneering next-generation bio-sequins to replace plastic waste in high fashion; Saloni Jhaveri by Saloni Jhaveri, transforming discarded textiles into innovative design; Duja by Ustat Kharbanda, upcycling post-consumer textile waste into one-of-a-kind apparel; and Margn by Saurabh Maurya, creating contemporary fashion rooted in craftsmanship and circular design, have been selected as the India Finalists of the eighth edition of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge.
The India Jury brought together an exceptional panel of industry leaders, including Ainee Nizami Ahmedi, Editorial Director, ELLE India & ELLE Gourmet; Shaleena Nathani, Celebrity Stylist & Fashion Consultant; Karishma Shahani Khan, Creative Director, Ka-Sha; Rakesh Bali, Senior Vice President – PetChem, Reliance Industries Limited; and Darshana Gajare, Head of Sustainability, Lakmé Fashion Week. Together, the jury represented a powerful convergence of creative excellence, business acumen and sustainability leadership, evaluating breakthrough ideas capable of accelerating the transition towards a circular fashion ecosystem.
Earlier this year, Yoshita 1967 by Anil Padia was selected as the Europe Finalist by the European Jury in Paris. The jury comprised Pascale Mussard, Vice-President, Fondation Hermès and President, Villa Noailles; Katell Pouliquen, Editorial Director, Marie Claire France; Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director, Fondazione Sozzani; Diane Pernet, Founder & Director, ASVOFF; Anne-Gaëlle Lamort, Sustainability Innovation Lead, Kering; and Serge Carreira, Director, Emerging Brands Initiative, Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode.
In London, RWRK Studio by Farouk Braimoh was announced as the United Kingdom Finalist following evaluation by a distinguished jury comprising Matthew Needham Creative Director, Matthew Needham, Senior Lecturer, Central Saint Martins; Shailja Dubé Institute of Positive Fashion, British Council; Muchaneta ten Napel, Founder & CEO, Shape Innovate; Sevra Davis Director of Architecture, Design & Fashion, British Council and Radhika Kaul Batra Chief of Staff, United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, India.
Representing the Asia Pacific & Beyond region, BYO by Tommy Tedji was named the regional finalist by a jury comprising Christina Dean, Founder, Redress; Hong Zheng, Founder, Greenext; Rina Singh, Founder & Designer, Eka; Jacinta FitzGerald, Chief Executive, Fashion & Textiles New Zealand; and Nicky Mac Callum, Venture Partner, Elaphurus Capital and Founding Member, M Impact Investment Fund.
This year’s edition received over 220+ global applications, with 23 semi-finalists shortlisted across Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia Pacific & Beyond, and India. Following the regional jury rounds, seven global finalists have been selected to advance to the Grand Jury at United Nations House in New Delhi, before presenting their collections at the finale showcase, which will be hosted at the Embassy of France in India during Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI in October as part of the India–France Year of Innovation 2026, celebrating the shared commitment of both nations to advancing innovation, creativity, and sustainable design.
The Winner and Runner-Up of the eighth edition of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge will be announced following the final showcase, marking the culmination of this global journey.
Nitya Amarnath, Founder, Botto Labs, said, “Becoming a finalist is surreal, and it’s still sinking in. I’m genuinely excited to get to know my fellow finalists and mentors, learn from their diverse experiences, explore ideas and be part of the CDC community that’s collectively reimagining the future of fashion.”
Saloni Jhaveri, Founder & Designer of Saloni Jhaveri, said, “When I heard them announce ‘Saloni Jhaveri’, it felt like I was living the dream. The 13 year old girl who dreamt of this moment, is elated and extremely humbled. And today, as a finalist, I feel one step closer towards fulfilling my purpose. I look forward to being a part of the community that is making a change. I am super excited to be working alongside the wonderful mentors, who I have always looked upto.”
Ustat Kharbanda, Founder, Duja, said, “We’re incredibly grateful and excited to be selected as finalists. It’s a meaningful validation of the work we’re doing at DUJA and reinforces our belief that great design and circularity can go hand in hand. We’re looking forward to learning from this journey and taking our impact to the next level.”
Saurabh Maurya, Founder, Margn said, “I’m very excited to be selected as a finalist for CDC 2026. This is also really important and special for us because we started our circular journey one year back, and getting selected has also given us the opportunity to be mentored by people whom we have been looking up to for a very long time. We have also improvised our processes, learned business strategy, and understood how to make these circular practices a core part of our system and the design practice that we’ve been doing for the last five years.”
Mr. Rakesh Bali, Senior Vice President – PetChem, Reliance Industries Limited, said, “Heartfelt congratulations to Botto Labs by Nitya Amarnath, Saloni Jhaveri the founder of Saloni Jhaveri, Duja by Ustat Kharbanda and Margn by Saurabh Maurya on being selected as the India Finalists of the eighth edition of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge. This year’s Indian cohort was truly exceptional, the creativity, boldness of ideas and commitment to sustainable innovation on display reaffirm India’s growing leadership in circular fashion. At Reliance, we have always believed that lasting change begins with backing innovators willing to challenge convention. Through the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge, we remain committed to nurturing this next generation of talent by providing mentorship, visibility and material innovation to help transform bold circular ideas into scalable business solutions. We look forward to seeing them represent India on the global stage.”
Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands Limited, said, “Congratulations to Botto Labs by Nitya Amarnath, Saloni Jhaveri the founder of Saloni Jhaveri, Duja by Ustat Kharbanda and Margn by Saurabh Maurya on being selected as the India Finalists of the eighth edition of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge. Their work reflects the extraordinary calibre of entrepreneurs who are redefining fashion through innovation, craftsmanship and circular thinking. It is encouraging to witness emerging talent creating solutions that are not only creatively compelling but also commercially relevant. We are excited to see them progress to the Grand Jury and continue showcasing India’s growing leadership in circular fashion globally.”
Mr. Stefan Priesner, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, said, “I congratulate Botto Labs by Nitya Amarnath, Saloni Jhaveri the founder of Saloni Jhaveri, Duja by Ustat Kharbanda and Margn by Saurabh Maurya on being named the India Finalists. This year’s cohort reflects the growing momentum of innovators demonstrating that sustainability, creativity and entrepreneurship can come together to address some of fashion’s most pressing challenges. By bringing together designers, industry leaders and institutions, the Challenge continues to foster collaboration that advances circular solutions and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals. We look forward to seeing the finalists continue their inspiring journeys and help shape a more sustainable future for fashion.”
Bringing together some of the world’s most influential voices across fashion, sustainability, and innovation, this year’s global jury process reflects the Challenge’s growing international stature and its commitment to nurturing scalable circular business solutions that are shaping the future of fashion.
1, Aug 2026
From ShemarooMe to the Big Spotlight: Akanksha Chamola’s Inspiring Journey of Growth and Stardom
Aug 1: Every successful journey begins with a defining opportunity. For actress Akanksha Chamola, that opportunity arrived with the ShemarooMe Original Dil Dhoka Aur Desire, where she led a bold, contemporary narrative that showcased her range as a performer. The series not only introduced audiences to her versatility but also marked the beginning of a new and promising chapter in her career.
Since then, Akanksha’s journey has been one of steady growth and reinvention. Building on the recognition she earned through Dil Dhoka Aur Desire, she has expanded her presence across multiple entertainment formats, from starring in several micro-dramas that resonated with digital audiences, to now appearing as a contestant on the reality show Lock Upp. With each project, she has continued to evolve as a performer while deepening her connection with viewers.
Her transition across fiction, short-format digital content and reality television reflects her willingness to explore diverse opportunities and challenge herself with every new project. With each appearance, she has earned greater visibility and carved a distinct identity in the entertainment industry.
Looking back at her journey, Dil Dhoka Aur Desire remains a significant milestone that gave audiences an early glimpse of Akanksha’s talent and screen presence. The ShemarooMe Original provided a strong platform that allowed her to reach viewers and establish herself as a performer capable of taking on layered and engaging roles.
Today, as Akanksha continues to capture attention with her participation in Lock Upp 2, her journey serves as a testament to how dedication, consistency and the right opportunities can shape a successful career. rom leading a ShemarooMe Original to becoming a familiar face across digital and reality entertainment, she has steadily built a growing fan base and continues to make her presence felt in the industry.
ShemarooMe takes pride in being a part of Akanksha Chamola’s professional journey and celebrates her continued success as she reaches newer milestones. Her story reflects the evolving entertainment landscape, where digital originals have become a powerful launchpad for emerging talent, helping actors showcase their abilities and connect with audiences before taking on even bigger opportunities.
As Akanksha’s journey continues to unfold, her growth from a ShemarooMe Original lead to one of the industry’s rising personalities stands as an inspiring example of talent meeting opportunity and making the most of it.
1, Aug 2026
UPI Scales New Heights with Record INR 29.88 Lakh Crore Transactions in July
New Delhi, Aug 1: India’s digital payment ecosystem continued its strong growth momentum in July, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) recording 23.66 billion transactions, marking a 22% year-on-year increase. The total value of transactions reached ₹29.88 lakh crore, registering a 19% annual growth and highlighting the rising adoption of digital payments across the country.
The latest data from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) reflects the growing role of UPI in India’s everyday financial activities. The platform processed nearly 763 million transactions daily in July, with an average daily transaction value of around ₹96,383 crore.
UPI has transformed the way individuals and businesses conduct financial transactions, offering a fast, secure, and convenient alternative to traditional payment methods. From small retail purchases and bill payments to e-commerce transactions and business settlements, digital payments have become an integral part of daily life for millions of Indians.
The continued expansion of UPI has been supported by rising smartphone adoption, improved internet connectivity, wider acceptance among merchants, and increasing consumer confidence in digital payment solutions. The platform has also played an important role in promoting financial inclusion by enabling more people, including small businesses and users in rural and semi-urban areas, to participate in the formal digital economy.
Over the past few years, UPI has witnessed remarkable growth, reflecting India’s broader shift toward a technology-driven financial system. The platform processed 4,595.61 crore transactions worth ₹84.16 lakh crore in FY2021-22, which increased to 18,586.60 crore transactions valued at ₹260.56 lakh crore in FY2024-25.
Beyond domestic expansion, India’s digital payment infrastructure is also gaining global recognition. NPCI International Payments Ltd. (NIPL) continues to collaborate with international partners to expand UPI-based payment solutions across global markets, enabling smoother cross-border transactions for Indian travelers and supporting the development of real-time payment systems in partner countries.
With continued innovation, increasing adoption, and expanding global partnerships, UPI is strengthening India’s digital economy and emerging as one of the world’s leading real-time payment platforms.
1, Aug 2026
Grace Cancer Foundation soon to be Listed on NSE’s Social Stock Exchange: Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli
Hyderabad, Aug 01: The 9th Edition of Quambiant’s Global Grace Cancer Run 2026, powered by Evernorth Health Services, was formally announced at a grand launch event held at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, on Friday evening.
The Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad. The event will be conducted in both physical and virtual formats, with the Hyderabad edition being an in-person event.
Renowned filmmaker Anil Ravipudi and popular actress Nidhhi Agerwal graced the occasion as Chief Guests and unveiled the official Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 T-shirt and Finisher’s Medal, marking the launch of this year’s global campaign against cancer.
Speaking on the occasion, Nidhhi Agerwal said, “Doctors are the real heroes. This is not one of the usual events that I attend. Grace Cancer Foundation is doing remarkable work. Prevention is always better than cure. Once you cross the age of 40, make regular health check-ups a part of your life.”
Addressing the gathering, Anil Ravipudi said that cancer cases are increasing rapidly and stressed the importance of listening to one’s body.
“Your body is the greatest research centre. A sound body leads to a sound mind. Reduce stress and lead a pleasant life. Stress is the root cause of many ailments. That is why my WhatsApp display picture says ‘Happy Mind, Happy Life’,” he remarked.
In his characteristic humorous style, he added, “People call doctors heart specialists. In my own way, I am also a heart doctor because I believe laughter is the best medicine. Through my films, I try to make people laugh and keep their hearts happy.”
He also encouraged everyone to remain youthful in spirit, saying, “Always nurture positive thoughts. The imagination of being young gives you tremendous energy.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation, said that cancer continues to be one of the world’s biggest public health challenges. However, a significant number of cancers can either be prevented or successfully treated when detected early.
Dr. Sunkavalli also announced that Grace Cancer Foundation will soon be listed on the Social Stock Exchange of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), enabling greater transparency and wider public participation in supporting its mission.
“The Global Grace Cancer Run is not merely a sporting event. It is a global movement that combines awareness, prevention, early detection and hope. Every participant becomes an ambassador in the fight against cancer, while every registration helps us reach underserved communities with life-saving screening services,” he said.
He further stated that the funds raised through this year’s run will be utilised to screen one lakh economically disadvantaged people for cancer and other non-communicable diseases through mobile screening units. The initiative will also support HPV vaccination, awareness programmes, lifestyle modification and preventive healthcare, bringing quality cancer screening and treatment closer to rural communities.
Dr. Pavan Gorukanti, Director, Yashoda Hospitals, emphasised that early detection of cancer significantly improves the chances of complete recovery and helps patients return to normal life. He urged everyone to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle.
Mr. Yogendranath, Founder of Quambiant Developers, the Global Title Sponsor, said, “No one should ever suffer because of cancer. We are proud to continue supporting this noble cause and contribute towards saving lives through early detection.”
Since its inception, the Global Grace Cancer Run has evolved into the world’s largest cancer awareness run, touching the lives of nearly 1.4 crore people across more than 130 countries.
The Foundation’s vision is to alleviate the cancer burden in society through Education & Awareness, Early Detection, Treatment & Rehabilitation, and Cutting-edge Research.
The theme for this year’s edition is: “Run for Grace. Screen for Life.”
The Hyderabad edition is expected to attract around 35,000 participants, while the global event is expected to witness over one lakh participants from more than 130 countries spanning all seven continents.
Participants can register in 2K, 5K and 10K categories. The event has also earned global recognition with six Guinness World Records.
Dr. Pedda Reddy Talugula will serve as the Race Director for the 9th edition.
The event is globally sponsored by Quambiant Developers and powered by Evernorth Health Services.
More than 400 doctors, healthcare professionals, corporate leaders, cancer survivors, volunteers and supporters attended the launch ceremony, reaffirming their collective commitment to building a cancer-aware society and ensuring that early detection reaches those who need it the most.
Those interested in participating in the Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 can register online at www.gracecancerrun.com or www.ifinish.in
1, Aug 2026
NPCI Encourages Digital Safety with Awareness on Text Message scams
Bengaluru: Digital payments are now accessible nationwide, driving India towards a digital-first economy, offering both security and convenience. Today, many frauds begin with a simple text message designed to create urgency, fear or curiosity and influence people into taking quick decisions. This form of social engineering relies on human emotions instead of technical expertise. Knowing how these scams work can help you recognise the warning signs and protect yourself from financial fraud.
What is a text message scam?
A text message scam is a fake SMS sent to trick you into taking an action that can put your money, personal information or digital accounts at risk. These messages often pretend to be from a trusted organisation or someone you know, making them appear genuine.
Five actions scammers want you to take: Most text message scams are designed to get you to do one of these five things
- Click on a link that leads to a fake website
- Call a fake customer care or helpline number
- Download an unknown app or file
- Share personal or financial information such as your OTP, PIN or passwords
- Transfer money to someone (a fake SMS indicating money credited to your account)
How scammers try to gain your trust
Scammers often present themselves as representatives of banks, government agencies, delivery companies, telecom providers, or other trusted organisations. They use social engineering techniques to encourage people to act quickly before taking the time to think or verify the request. They may create fear by claiming that your account will be blocked or that there is a problem with your money. They may also appeal to greed by offering prizes, rewards, or refunds. Their messages often appear genuine and are designed to take advantage of lack of awareness and overlooked warning signs.
Simple ways to stay safe
- Read every message carefully before taking any action
- Verify requests through the official website, app or customer care of the organisation
- Download apps only from trusted sources such as official app stores
- Never share your OTP, UPI PIN or passwords with anyone
- Avoid clicking links or downloading apps from unexpected messages
- Always verify by checking your bank account statement on receipt of a credit message.
- Review app permissions carefully and provide only those permissions that are genuinely required
Record and Report
- Save messages, take screenshots and document interactions. This can help authorities if you need to file a report.
- Report suspicious numbers to the national cybercrime helpline by dialling 1930 or the Department of Telecommunication (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/
sfc/).
