30, Jan 2026
HDFC ERGO successfully conducts 3rd edition of State Insurance Quiz Junior Grand Finale in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Chennai, January 30: HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, India’s leading private sector general insurer, successfully conducted the grand finale of the third edition of the State Insurance Quiz Junior– Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Chapter 2026.
After a series of exciting preliminary and semi-final rounds, the grand finale witnessed a spirited contest among eight top-performing teams. Team Srinuprasad and Ajesh from GHSS Kalkulam, Kanniyakumari, emerged as the champions of the quiz competition. Sibidharshan and Nikil from GHSS Palapatti, Namakkal, secured the first runner-up position, while Monisha and Anushya from GHS Vanavareddy, Kallakurichi, finished as the second runners-up. The winning team was awarded a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh, while the first and second runners-up received ₹90,000 and ₹60,000 respectively. The remaining five teams were each awarded a cash prize of ₹30,000.
This year’s quiz witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting over 1,070 teams from Tamil-medium Government schools across 42 districts, a significant rise from the 530+ teams that participated in the second edition of the state level quiz last year.
Speaking about the initiative, Parthanil Ghosh, Executive Director, HDFC ERGO General Insurance, said, “Building financial confidence at a young age lays the foundation for a resilient future. As the lead insurer for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, we remain deeply committed to strengthening insurance awareness at the grassroots and increasing the adoption of insurance products. What began as a modest initiative—State Insurance Quiz Junior–Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Chapter—with participation from just over 100 schools has grown to more than 1,070 teams in three years, reflecting the rising curiosity and understanding of insurance among students across the states. The success of the 2026 edition reaffirms the impact of this initiative and strengthens our resolve to continue nurturing financially aware and empowered young citizens.”
Since 2016, HDFC ERGO has been organising Insurance Quiz Junior on a national level to spread insurance awareness among next generation, engaging over 25 lakh students across Bharat. Building on this legacy, the company introduced the first-ever Insurance Quiz Senior for undergraduate students in 2025, drawing participation from 1,100+ students across 140+ cities.
As part of its broader insurance awareness efforts in the region, HDFC ERGO also concluded the 3rd edition of ‘Kapitu Varaam’ (Insurance Week) in collaboration with 29 non-life insurers. The initiative aimed to enhance public understanding of motor, health, home, shopkeeper and MSME insurance through multiple outreach activities, including pamphlet distribution, newspaper inserts and awareness drives across high-footfall locations, collectively facilitating ~ 17 lakh interactions.
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- By Neel Achary
29, Jan 2026
People Sway to Rajeev Acharya’s Devotional Songs in Prayagraj
New Delhi, Jan 29: Prayagraj witnessed a vibrant cultural evening at the Magh Mela as the Department of Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, continued its daily cultural programs at the Ganga Pandal. The event was marked by a captivating devotional music performance by renowned bhajan singer Rajeev Acharya, who mesmerized the audience with his soulful renditions and spiritual energy.
Large numbers of devotees and music lovers gathered from far and wide to experience Rajeev Acharya’s live performance. His powerful and melodious bhajans created an atmosphere of devotion and enthusiasm across the venue. Songs such as “Padhare Phir Se Mere Ram,” “Chalo Phir Se Ayodhya Nagariya,” “Hey Mere Ram,” “Madho Madho Man Ka Maan Tyago,” and several other devotional and love-themed bhajans deeply connected with the audience and held them spellbound.
Rajeev Acharya’s devotional music enjoys immense popularity on social media platforms. His bhajan “Padhare Phir Se Mere Ram” recently achieved the top position on Instagram trending, further highlighting his growing influence among listeners across generations. During the performance, the crowd responded with great excitement, swaying and dancing to bhajans like “Avadh Ke Dulare Ram Suno” and “Dharm Dhwaja Mere Saath Thaam Lo,” which energized the entire gathering.
Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Acharya said,
“The love and appreciation I receive from listeners for my bhajans is a matter of great pride and honor for me. It is equally important that the younger generation comes forward to embrace, preserve, and promote India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage through music and art.”
The program concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where Rajeev Acharya and all the accompanying artists were honored for their outstanding contribution to devotional music and cultural enrichment. The evening left a lasting impression on the audience and reinforced the spirit of devotion and tradition at the Magh Mela, Prayagraj
29, Jan 2026
Col Saurabh Sanyal Takes Charge as Secretary General of ASSOCHAM
New Delhi, Jan 29: Col Saurabh Sanyal (Retd.) has assumed charge as the Secretary General of ASSOCHAM, India’s oldest Apex National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, representing over 4.5 lakh direct and indirect members across industry, trade, and services.
With over four decades of experience spanning government, the corporate sector, and industry chambers, Col Sanyal brings extensive expertise in policy engagement, institution-building, and stakeholder collaboration.
“It is an honour to lead an institution of ASSOCHAM’s legacy and national relevance,” said Col Sanyal. “ASSOCHAM will continue to serve as a constructive and trusted partner of the Government of India, focusing on impactful policy advocacy, strengthening member capabilities, and contributing to India’s socio-economic development.”
Col Sanyal has previously served as ASSOCHAM’s Deputy Secretary General during 2019–2020, bringing with him a deep understanding of the Chamber’s operations and strategic priorities.
Welcoming the appointment, ASSOCHAM President Mr Nirmal Kumar Minda said,
“Col Sanyal’s leadership and wide-ranging experience will significantly enhance the Chamber’s engagement with policymakers and improve value delivery to members. His appointment aligns with ASSOCHAM’s focus on the five pillars of Make in India, MSME, Ease of Doing Business, Digital Economy, and Sustainability & Environment.”
29, Jan 2026
Gopi Birla Memorial School Students Take a Bold Stand for a Greener Future
Mumbai, Jan 29: In a vibrant display of community spirit and environmental advocacy, the Senior KG students of Gopi Birla Memorial School took to the streets near their school premises, to host an impactful Environmental Protection Awareness Drive. This initiative was organized to foster a deep sense of responsibility toward the Earth from a young age while actively engaging the local community in sustainable practices.
The heart of the activity involved a group of young student representatives who shared brief, insightful messages on the pressing challenges of Air, Water, and Noise pollution, as well as practical solutions for saving our natural resources. Supporting their peers, the remaining students lined the area with hand-crafted placards and banners, creating a powerful visual reminder of the importance of going green.
This interactive flow not only enhanced the students’ public speaking skills but also boosted the school’s visibility as a centre for mindful education. By consistently integrating real-world issues into the early years of learning, Gopi Birla Memorial School successfully empowered its youngest learners to act as true catalysts for change.
29, Jan 2026
IICT to Host Global Game Jam 2026 Mumbai, Joining the World’s Largest Game Creation Movement
The Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) will serve as the official Mumbai jam site for Global Game Jam 2026, the world’s largest game creation event, scheduled from 30 January to 1 February 2026.
Global Game Jam is a globally celebrated initiative that takes place simultaneously across hundreds of locations worldwide, bringing together game developers, designers, artists, programmers, musicians, and storytellers for an intense 48-hour creative sprint. It is facilitated by Underdogs Studio. Participants collaborate across disciplines to conceptualise and build playable games from scratch, driven by innovation, experimentation, and creative problem-solving.
For decades, India has been recognised globally as one of the world’s largest and most passionate gaming markets. With Global Game Jam 2026, that narrative takes a decisive turn. India is no longer positioned solely as a consumer of global gaming content, but as an active creator, building original games, intellectual property, and interactive experiences for the world.
As an official jam site, IICT Mumbai will host participants for an immersive, hands-on experience, providing a collaborative ecosystem where ideas rapidly transform into functional games. The initiative reinforces IICT’s vision of experiential learning, community-led innovation, and skill development within the rapidly growing AVGC-XR sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO, Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), said:
“Global Game Jam represents the true spirit of collaboration and creative freedom that defines the gaming and interactive media industry. By hosting Global Game Jam Mumbai at IICT, we are creating a platform where young creators and professionals can learn by doing, experiment fearlessly, and engage with global creative practices. This initiative strongly aligns with IICT’s mission to nurture future-ready talent and position Mumbai as a key hub in the global game development ecosystem.”
29, Jan 2026
Wondrlab Network Appoints Ishaan Balvani as Creative Lead – Digital
Mumbai, India, Jan 29: Wondrlab Network, India’s platform-first marketing network, today announced the appointment of Ishaan Balvani as Creative Lead – Digital. In his new role, Ishaan will spearhead digital-first creative thinking across the network, strengthening Wondrlab’s focus on culture-led full-funnel storytelling, brand relevance, and integrated digital solutions.
Ishaan will report to Hemant Shringy, Chief Creative Officer and Managing Partner, Wondrlab Network.
Before joining Wondrlab, Ishaan was with FCB Kinnect, where he served as Group Creative Director. During his tenure, he played a key role in building impactful digital narratives, leading integrated campaigns for marquee brands, and mentoring creative teams across platforms. Some of the campaigns and brands Ishaan has worked on include HDFC Bank’s “Vigil Aunty – End of Scam Sale”, which won at Kyoorius, secured a Grand Prix at The One Show, and earned a Cannes Lions award. He has also played a pivotal role in TATA.ev, contributing to the launch of multiple vehicles and campaigns such as “Perfect Roads” for Harrier.ev, along with award-winning work including recognition at Kyoorius and The One Show for the #PerryPowerfulPunch campaign.
His portfolio further includes high-impact campaigns for Flipkart, including SASA LELE and Big Bang Diwali, along with work across marquee brands such as Disney+ Hotstar, Durex, Amul, Amazon, Google, Lodha Group, Aditya Birla Capital, and Standard Chartered, spanning categories from finance and e-commerce to entertainment and FMCG.
In this capacity, Ishaan will collaborate closely with strategy, technology, and media teams to translate insights into impactful digital ideas, ensuring creative output is deeply rooted in culture while delivering measurable business outcomes.
Commenting on the appointment, Hemant Shringy, Chief Creative Officer and Managing Partner, Wondrlab Network, said,
“Ishaan brings a rare combination of creative depth and digital instinct. His ability to think in platforms, culture, and ideas makes him a strong addition to our creative leadership. As brands navigate an increasingly complex digital ecosystem, Ishaan’s leadership will help us deliver sharper, more meaningful work.”
Speaking on joining Wondrlab, Ishaan Balvani, Creative Lead – Digital, Wondrlab Network, said,
“Wondrlab’s integrated and platform-first approach really stood out to me. It’s a network that’s building for where brands and culture are headed, not where they’ve been. I’m excited to collaborate with teams across the network to create digital work that is relevant, impactful, and truly connected to people.”
29, Jan 2026
SparxIT Conducts Cybersecurity Awareness Sessions at Leading Universities
New Delhi, Jan 29: SparxIT, a global AI-first technology partner specializing in intelligent digital transformation and next-generation software solutions, recently conducted cybersecurity awareness sessions at Galgotias University and HRIT University. These initiatives form part of the company’s ongoing efforts to promote safe and responsible digital behaviour among students.
The sessions, attended by over 100 students at each university, addressed the growing cybersecurity risks faced by young users in increasingly digital academic and professional environments. Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, SparxIT’s experts highlighted how cybercriminals often target students by exploiting routine online activities.
Participants were introduced to key cybersecurity concepts, including various forms of phishing—email phishing, SMS phishing (smishing), and voice-based scams (vishing). Students learned to identify warning signs, recognize impersonation attempts, and avoid falling prey to attackers creating urgency to extract sensitive information.
The program also emphasized malware awareness, with a focus on ransomware, demonstrating how malicious software can compromise devices, lock users out of systems, and threaten personal and academic data. Preventive measures such as avoiding suspicious links, keeping systems updated, and promptly reporting unusual activity were shared with participants.
Vikash Sharma, CEO, SparxIT, commented:
“Today’s students are among the most active digital users, which also makes them increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. These awareness sessions aim to shift cybersecurity from a purely technical concern to a shared responsibility driven by everyday digital behaviour. By helping students recognize risks such as phishing, malware, and unsafe password practices, we aim to empower them to navigate digital platforms safely and confidently.”
A key focus of the sessions was password safety and account protection. Students learned the importance of strong, unique passwords, the risks of password reuse, and the role of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and one-time passwords (OTP) in securing online accounts. Practical tips were shared to safeguard personal, academic, and financial information across platforms.
The sessions encouraged students to view cybersecurity as a collective responsibility, highlighting that while technology provides protection, individual awareness and informed behaviour remain critical in preventing cyber incidents. Participants also received guidance on how and where to report cybercrime and suspicious digital activity.
Through these engagements, SparxIT aims to foster a more cyber-aware student community, equipping young users with practical knowledge to navigate digital spaces securely and responsibly.
29, Jan 2026
Archies Partners with Shark Tank–Backed Sudathi to Launch ‘TereSangForever’ Valentine’s Campaign
New Delhi, Jan 29: Archies, India’s iconic gifting brand renowned for helping people express emotions and celebrate relationships, has partnered with Sudathi, one of India’s most affordable saree brands, to launch a special Valentine’s Day cross-collaboration campaign titled “TereSangForever”. Rooted in nostalgia and the warmth of cherished memories, the campaign brings together Archies’ legacy of heartfelt gifting and Sudathi’s elegant ethnic fashion to celebrate renewed love, enduring companionship, and meaningful connections that stand the test of time.
The “TereSangForever” campaign is rooted in emotional storytelling and nostalgia, focusing on relationships that grow stronger over time. Through co-created digital content, curated gifting moments, and interactive giveaways, the collaboration positions the saree as a renewed symbol of love and commitment, paired with Archies’ timeless expressions of affection.
Sudathi will spotlight a thoughtfully curated range of sarees from Banarasi, Kanchipuram, and Paithani silks to cotton, chiffon, and georgette, crafted for celebrations, festive occasions, and everyday elegance. Complementing this, Archies will showcase its signature gifting portfolio, reinforcing how thoughtful gestures continue to play a meaningful role in modern relationships. A key highlight of the collaboration is a co-branded Valentine’s Day giveaway, offering prizes that pair a Sudathi saree with an Archies gift, encouraging deeper engagement and cross-brand discovery. Exclusive discount codes from both brands further enhance consumer participation.
Commenting on the collaboration, Hanisha Gandhi and Varun Moolchandani, Executive Directors, Archies, said,
“At Archies, love and emotions have always been at the core of our brand. With TereSangForever, we wanted to move beyond fleeting celebrations and bring the focus back to relationships that truly last. Partnering with Sudathi allows us to blend thoughtful gifting with timeless ethnic fashion, creating a Valentine’s Day narrative rooted in nostalgia, commitment, and meaningful expression.”
Sharing his thoughts, Viren Lathiya, Co-Founder, Sudathi, said,
“Sarees have always symbolised grace, emotion, and enduring bonds. Through TereSangForever, we are delighted to collaborate with Archies to reimagine the saree as a renewed expression of love this Valentine’s Day. This partnership beautifully blends tradition with modern relevance, making high-quality sarees more accessible and meaningful for today’s evolving relationships.”
Archies and Sudathi aim to redefine Valentine’s Day celebrations by blending gifting and fashion into a powerful expression of love that truly stands the test of time.
29, Jan 2026
EKA Mobility Signs Strategic MoU With HPCL to Develop Green Mobility Infrastructure at HPCL Retail Outlets
New Delhi, Jan 29: EKA Mobility and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advancing sustainable mobility solutions and green energy initiatives across the country.
The partnership brings together EKA’s expertise in electric commercial vehicles and HPCL’s extensive nationwide energy and retail infrastructure to jointly develop, pilot, and scale innovative solutions across electric mobility, charging infrastructure, battery swapping, green hydrogen, and sustainable logistics
As part of the collaboration, EKA and HPCL will work towards leveraging HPCL’s extensive fuel retail network to develop charging infrastructure for commercial electric vehicles, including battery swapping stations where required.
HPCL is one of India’s largest state-owned oil and gas corporations, operating over 24,400 Retail Outlets nationwide and running over 5,300 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand.
The MoU holds strategic significance as India accelerates its transition toward green transportation. HPCL’s existing Retail Outlet footprint provides a strong platform for accelerated EV charging infrastructure deployment and seamless nationwide expansion.
The cooperation with HPCL represents the next step in the collective efforts of Eka Mobility, a leading Indian electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem encompassing manufacturing, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, green hydrogen and sustainable logistics. This is regarded as an important foundation for realizing the goal of widespread electric vehicle adoption and promoting sustainable transportation in the world’s third largest automotive market.
29, Jan 2026
MediBuddy Strengthens Presence with New Indore Office
MediBuddy Expands National Footprint with New Indore Office; City Emerges as Company’s Second-Largest Hub
Jan 29: MediBuddy, India’s leading digital healthcare company, has expanded its national footprint with the launch of another new office in Indore, further strengthening its presence across key growth markets beyond metro cities. Located at the Brilliant Summit building in the Vijaya nagar area & managed by IndiQube, the new office marks an important milestone in MediBuddy’s expansion strategy, underlining its focus on decentralised growth, regional talent development, and operational scale. MediBuddy serves over 30 million users across India for their healthcare needs like Doctor consultations, Lab tests, Medicines, visioncare, second opinion and concierge services for surgery, home healthcare and many other services.
Indore’s rapid emergence as a technology and talent hub in central India made it a strategic choice for MediBuddy’s next phase of growth. The company began building its presence in the city just eight months ago, and the launch of this office reflects the pace and confidence with which MediBuddy is expanding in the region. Today, the Indore office is home to 400+ employees, expanding teams across technology, operations, and customer experience—enabling delivery of healthcare services across the country for users across the country.
The IndiQube workspace has been designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and a growth-oriented environment. With this addition, MediBuddy now operates at 10 locations across India, with Indore emerging as its second-largest office after Bengaluru—a testament to the company’s long-term commitment to the city and its talent ecosystem. The Indore office will support the company’s innovation roadmap and strengthen its ability to deliver accessible, and seamless healthcare at scale.
Commenting on the expansion, Satish Kannan, Co-founder and CEO, MediBuddy, said,
“As we continue to scale our healthcare ecosystem, expanding our capability centers in an emerging city like Indore is a key part of our long-term strategy. This office strengthens our operational capabilities while allowing us to tap into a strong talent pool that can contribute meaningfully to our growth journey .”
Adding to this, Enba, Co-founder & CTO, MediBuddy, said,
“Our expansion in Indore reflects MediBuddy’s
commitment to building a distributed, future-ready workforce. By investing in regional ecosystems, we are not only creating employment opportunities but also ensuring that innovation and decision-making happen closer to where our users are.”
Over the years, MediBuddy has evolved into one of India’s most widely used digital healthcare platforms, serving millions of users annually. Its end-to-end services—from consultations and diagnostics to medicine delivery and post-care support— are enabled by a nationwide network of 140,000+ doctors, alongside hospitals, diagnostic centres, and pharmacies, delivering coverage across more than 99% of India’s PIN codes.
With this latest expansion, MediBuddy continues to deepen its regional presence, reinforce its operational strength, and reaffirm its commitment to building inclusive, sustainable growth opportunities across India.
