12, Jul 2025
Galaxy M36 5G with Advanced AI Innovations in Mid-Segment Smartphones, Goes on Sale in India
GURUGRAM, India – July 12, 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the sale of Galaxy M36 5G, the latest addition to the immensely popular Galaxy M Series. Starting, July 12, 2025, Galaxy M36 5G will be available starting INR 16499, which includes an INR 1000 instant bank discount on Samsung.com, Amazon and at select retail stores.
Designed for young Indian consumers, Galaxy M36 5G packs a suite of AI innovations along with several segment-leading features such as 50MP OIS triple camera, Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ durability and 6 generations of Android upgrade.
Galaxy M36 5G will come with Circle to Search with Google, furthering the democratization of mobile AI to even more devices in the Galaxy ecosystem. Built upon Samsung-Google collaboration, Circle to Search brings a seamless search experience to Galaxy users for images, texts and music. Additionally, it will also introduce new AI experience with Gemini Live, bringing real-time visual conversations with AI to Galaxy users. Through AI-powered assistance, Galaxy users can more naturally engage in conversational interactions that make everyday tasks easier.
With design at its forefront, Galaxy M36 5G is only 7.7mm slim with a premium camera deco and features segment-leading Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ protection, making it extremely tough as well as ergonomic. The segment leading protection not only withstands accidental slips and falls but also ensures that users are absolutely worry-free from scratches.
Galaxy M36 5G features a 6.7” Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and Vision Booster technology making it the perfect device for an unparalleled viewing and smooth scrolling experience even in the outdoor conditions with bright sunlight. Galaxy M36 5G will be available in three vibrant and flaunt worthy colours- Velvet Black, Serene Green and Orange Haze.
Galaxy M36 5G will come with advanced 50MP OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) triple camera to shoot sharp photos and videos. The cameras on Galaxy M36 5G are designed for vivid shots—even in low light, thanks to its Auto Night Mode that takes the Nightography feature to a different level. Users will also be able to record 4K videos on both front and rear cameras. Galaxy M36 5G will serve as a complete package with outstanding features like Photo Remaster and Object Eraser to take the user experience to a whole new level.
Setting new industry benchmarks, Galaxy M36 5G will offer segment’s best 6 generations of Android upgrades and 6 years of security updates, ensuring a future-ready experience. Galaxy M36 5G will come with One UI 7 out of the box.
For added convenience, Now Bar provides real-time updates that matter most right on the lock screen. Galaxy M36 5G will also feature one of Samsung’s most innovative security features: Samsung Knox Vault. The hardware-based security system offers comprehensive protection against both hardware and software attacks. It will also include Samsung’s innovative Tap & Pay feature with Samsung Wallet allowing consumers to make secure payments effortlessly.
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- By Neel Achary
11, Jul 2025
T-Hub Launches Orbit 2.0 with 17 Indian Spacetech Startups
Hyderabad, India, 11th July, 2025: T-Hub, the world’s largest home for startups, has launched the second cohort of the Orbit, an AIC T-Hub Spacetech accelerator Program, the exclusive spacetech incubation initiative in India. This cohort is designed to accelerate the growth of innovative startups in the space sector, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and strategic connections necessary to drive global space innovation.
The 17 selected startups for Cohort 2 include ResearchSat, Space Unlock, Cosmo Crawler, Kosmos Connect, ADTCore, Spacebelief, Space App India, Resolute Lab India, Vedasya, Polygon Geospatial, ioTHyAi, Stardour, Erudite, Cosmoserve Space, Raksyon, Nalwa Aero, Levitar Systems.
The second cohort is being supported by experts such as Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, Former Chairman of DRDO and Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri (the Minister of Defence, India); Dr. K. Mruthyunjaya Reddy, Director at G.P. Birla Archaeological, Astronomical & Scientific Research Institute; Dr. Seshagiri Rao, Former Scientist and Associate Director, SDSC ISRO; Dr. Mila Mitra, Former Scientist at NASA AMES & NASA Goddard; Mr. Gautier Champion, Deputy General Manager at CNES – France Space.
With India’s space economy projected to grow from $8.4 billion in 2022 to $44 billion by 2033 — aiming for 8% of the global market share — Orbit Cohort-2 reinforces AIC T-Hub’s commitment to building a world-class innovation pipeline in the country. This expansion is being driven by rising private sector participation, rapid advancements in satellite technology, and growing international collaborations.
The second cohort of the Orbit Spacetech Program will continue to focus on addressing key challenges across critical space domains, including satellite technology, reusable rockets, propulsion systems, intelligent manufacturing, space biology, space-based communication, and data analytics. T-Hub follows a structured selection process involving multiple rounds of in-depth evaluation to assess the overall strength and potential of each startup to be a part of these cohorts.
Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, Former Chairman of DRDO and Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri (the Minister of Defence, India), said: “India’s future in space tech will be powered by incubators offering dedicated space-focused programs. AIC at T-Hub is at the forefront of enabling young startups to thrive”
Kavikrut, CEO of T-Hub, said: “At T-Hub, we’re focused on backing founders who take on tough, meaningful challenges. Spacetech is one of those areas where India has both the talent and the opportunity to lead. As recent funded ventures show, Hyderabad and Telangana are among the regions leading this charge.”
Rajesh Kumar Adla, CEO of AIC T-Hub, emphasized: “The success of the first cohort showed the impact of a focused, partner-led approach to supporting space-tech startups. With this second cohort, we’re doubling down on mentorship, funding access, and the right connections to help founders scale globally. Our goal is to raise over ₹3 crores in funding and support the development of 10+ new IP assets — strengthening India’s position in the global space sector.”
The inaugural cohort of the Orbit Spacetech Program made a significant impact, successfully accelerating six pioneering spacetech startups, including Onnes Cryogenics, Spantrik, Stem and Space, Taramandal, Hindustan Magnesium, and Nveeas Labs. These startups raised ₹2.32 crore in funding, established over 92 market connections, and engaged in more than 125 mentor hours with industry experts and scientists. Additionally, the program contributed to the creation of 70 new jobs in the space sector and facilitated the development of 18 intellectual property assets.
11, Jul 2025
Filo Chocolate: India’s First Kunafa-Filled Chocolate Bar Brand Redefining Indulgence
11th July 2025, Mumbai: Filo Chocolate is reimagining the Indian confectionery landscape with a bold new offering — handcrafted kunafa-filled chocolate bars that fuse Middle Eastern tradition with modern Indian indulgence. As India’s first brand to introduce this unique combination, Filo is carving out a new niche defined by texture, flavor, and storytelling.
The idea was sparked during a trip to Dubai, where founder Adai Mehra first tasted kunafa — a crunchy, buttery, phyllo-based dessert. Captivated by its potential and emotional pull, and nostalgic charm, he set out to create a chocolate brand that delivers joy, nostalgia, and surprise in every bite.
What makes Filo Chocolate stand out is its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and freshness. Each bar is handcrafted daily, entirely preservative-free, and made with premium couverture chocolate — offering a superior taste experience that balances richness and crunch. Available in two indulgent sizes — 70g and 250g — priced at INR 499 and INR 1,499 respectively, and exclusively made to order via their official website.
Filo Chocolate is currently available in five indulgent flavours, each thoughtfully crafted to deliver a distinct texture, flavour, and sensorial experience:
The signature Kunafa-licious is a nod to the classic Middle Eastern dessert, featuring a pistachio-stuffed kunafa center wrapped in premium chocolate.
You Had Me at Biscoff layers creamy biscoff spread with crispy kunafa for a comforting, caramelised bite.
Caramel Me Crazy takes indulgence up a notch with a rich salted caramel-infused kunafa core, offering the perfect sweet-salty balance.
Kunooki & Cream reimagines the nostalgic cookies-and-cream combination with a playful twist of kunafa crunch.
Cloud Nine, a whimsical cotton candy-infused bar that brings a hint of nostalgia and surprise in every bite.
Together, these flavours celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and mood-based indulgence — making Filo the perfect choice for personal treats, festive gifting, and everything in between.
“I wanted to build something that wasn’t just delicious, but different — something that starts a conversation. Filo is about discovering new textures, revisiting old memories, and making every bite feel special,” says Adai Mehra, Founder of Filo Chocolate. “There’s a huge opportunity to elevate how we experience chocolate in India — and we’re here to lead that change.”
With a strong foundation and growing demand, Filo Chocolate is gearing up to become a flagship name in India’s premium chocolate gifting space. Over the next few years, the brand will scale its digital presence, expand boutique and café partnerships, and launch experiential pop-ups across major metros. International markets like Dubai and Singapore are on the horizon, alongside the introduction of new SKUs, seasonal flavors, and creative collaborations designed to delight a wider audience.
At its core, Filo Chocolate is a celebration of craft, curiosity, and culture — where every bar tells a story, every bite evokes emotion, and every product is designed to reimagine what indulgence can look and feel like. With Adai Mehra at the helm, Filo is not just building a product — it’s building a new ritual of taste, texture, and luxury for a new generation
11, Jul 2025
The Real Price of Living Abroad (Versus Staying in India)
By – Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
The recent fake news about (relatively) cheap permanent residency in the UAE has thrown up all the old questions about our fascination for leaving India and settling abroad. This phenomenon is largely a hangover, albeit a real and persistent one, from earlier decades. What does it mean to be an Indian in India today, and what does it really mean to settle down abroad? Let’s examine this.
Yes, India’s economy is by far the fastest-growing one in the world today. This year alone, the Indian job market is expected to grow by 9%; our booming manufacturing and automobile sectors will be increasing hiring by 25% and 20% just in 2025 and the IT sector, our ‘crown jewel’ industry, also forecasts a 15–20% growth in employment in 2025.
So yes, when it comes to opportunity, India has everything that other countries have, if not much more. But let’s examine the nuts and bolts of an Indian living abroad instead.
Cost of Living – Getting the Most for Your Money
The big gap in cost between India and other countries is a very strong reasons to remain here. The cost of living in India is well over 200% lower than in the US (not including rent). Coming to housing – on an average, renting a home is 700% lower in India than in the US. And since homeownership is close to every Indian’s heart, let’s compare property prices in New York City to, say, Pune – they are over 13 times higher in NYC. The average upper-mid-range home price in Pune is approximately Rs. 8,000 per sq. ft, which converts to about USD 1,037 per sq. meter. In New York City, the median price per square meter is about USD 15,174.
This is by no means a perfect example, but it highlights the vast disparity between major US and Indian cities in terms of real estate costs.
The discrepancies are huge at every level, especially if we look at some other expense groups. In the US, restaurants cost 320% more than in India, while basic supplies cost 220% more. In India, a simple lunch at a cheap restaurant costs Rs. 250, whereas in the US it costs Rs. 1,712 when converted from USD – a difference of 623%. Even the cost of getting around is lower in India. A monthly pass for public transit is Rs. 850 in India and Rs. 5,563 in the US.
For professionals in India who make good money, this cost advantage lets them live a life that would need a lot more money to live overseas. In India, a middle-class professional may afford to hire help around the house, live in a nice place, and go out for fun on a regular basis for a lot less than they would in other countries.
The Cultural Advantage
Living and working in India gives you access to family support networks that are unlike any other and greatly improve your quality of life. This is a fact that is rudely driven home to Indians who emigrate abroad, unfortunately too late. In India, we value working together, and coworkers frequently become like family. The focus on making decisions based on family and working together to achieve goals makes the Indian workplace a very supportive place.
There are always exceptions, of course, but our culture is all about treating coworkers and clients well. The Indian company model focuses on relationships, builds professional networks that last, and help people rise in their careers. We have 22 official languages and therefore also different regional influences. The Indian workplace tends to have a vibrant professional atmosphere that values differences and encourages open-minded thinking.
If we take the US as an example again – companies were beginning to realize how important diversity and inclusion are, until a recent major political shift caused a massive reversal on that front. Meanwhile in India, more women are becoming leaders, and companies are putting rules in place to make sure everyone has the same chances.
Work-Life Balance
I’ll agree that we’re a little behind some other countries on this front, though not nearly as behind as others like Japan and South Korea. India does have a reputation for long working hours, but the work culture is quickly changing to allow for a better balance between work and life. The Covid-19 pandemic introduced the hybrid work model which has proved to be remarkably sticky.
Today, 60% of modern Indian enterprises have adopted hybrid models, which allow for flexible work arrangements. This change shows that more people are becoming aware of how important personal time and employee well-being are.
Policies that encourage a healthier separation between work and home are replacing the ‘always-on’ lifestyle. Indian businesses are putting more money into programs for employee health and wellness, mental health, and flexible scheduling to develop work environments that last longer. This change makes India a more appealing place for professionals who want to advance in their careers and find personal fulfillment.
India – The Strategic Choice for Indians
More than ever before, being an Indian citizen in India makes so much more sense than being an immigrant abroad. We’re on our way to becoming a major player in the global economy. The ‘advanced’ economies take us very seriously now, at every level. And in the mean time, these countries are becoming increasingly hostile towards foreigners.
We are in a great position to take advantage of our country’s growth while also enjoying the unique benefits of working in one of the most exciting and opportunity-rich places in the world – our home. It has never been a better time to be an Indian in India.
11, Jul 2025
This French Fries Day, Don’t Just Eat. Devour
July 11, 2025: What’s better than a plate of hot, crispy fries? A whole menu of it. Burgrill brings the heat this French Fries Day with bold seasonings, melty cheese, spicy sauces, and a crunch that hits just right. It’s the one day where calories don’t count because it’s National French Fries Day!
African Peri Peri Fries
Brace yourself for a full-blown flavour volcano with the African Peri Peri Fries. These golden, crinkle-cut beauties are smothered in bold chilli mayo and rich, velvety cheese sauce that brings the perfect balance of heat and creaminess. The flavour of peri peri spices lingers on your palate, making every bite a fiery indulgence. It’s the ultimate combo of crispy, saucy, and spicy — a true Burgrill signature.
Portuguese Fries
Crinkle-cut and crisped to perfection, the Portuguese Fries are anything but basic. Tossed in Burgrill’s signature in-house peri peri rub, they deliver a smoky and mildly spicy hit that keeps your taste buds exploding. The robust seasoning gets to every groove, making each fry burst with personality. Simple, addictive, and full of character, these are your new go-to savoury snack.
Smoky BBQ Fries
Craving that smoky, cheesy comfort? We have got you covered. The crinkle-cut Smoky BBQ Fries are generously wrapped in a rich, tangy BBQ seasoning that brings the slow-smoked flavour straight to your plate. A smooth, cheesy drizzle ties it all together, delivering a creamy kick in every crunchy bite. It’s the ideal choice for BBQ lovers.
Classic Salted Fries
Timeless and universally loved, the Classic Salted Fries are golden, crinkle-cut, and perfectly seasoned for that nostalgic fry experience. Lightly salted to enhance the potato flavour, these fries hit the sweet spot between crispiness and fluffiness. Whether you’re dipping or munching solo, they’re a comforting, no-fuss treat that never disappoints. Simplicity at its absolute best.
COMING SOON: THE KOREAN FIRE RANGE
Korean Fire Fries
Bold, blazing, and packed with umami — these Korean Fire Fries are not for the faint-hearted. Crinkle-cut fries are tossed in a spicy Korean fire sauce that brings a thrilling kick of heat. A smooth, cooling ranch drizzle is layered on top to balance the spice, while black & white sesame seeds add texture and a nutty note. It’s an irresistible rollercoaster of flavour in every bite.
Chicken Korean Fire Fries
Meet the ultimate upgrade: Chicken Korean Fire Fries. This loaded indulgence features a bed of golden, crinkle-cut fries topped with crispy fried chicken slices, drenched in our bold Korean fire sauce. A cooling ranch drizzle mellows the heat, while black & white sesame seeds offer that final touch of crunch and character. Spicy, savoury, and satisfying — this one’s a meal in itself.
With this, we’d request you to consider featuring these delicious Burgrill offerings for the upcoming National French Fries Day for the stories you might be working on.
11, Jul 2025
Fire and Industrial Safety a Key Focus for UP Government: Minister Rakesh Sachan
“Fire & Industrial Safety is one of the priority sectors of UP Govt”, says Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile, Govt. of UP.
UP Government considers Fire and Industrial Safety as key sectors for the prevention of accidents in the industrial as well as residential sector. Setting up disaster management units in every district, providing information through e-portals, spreading awareness among MSME workers, ensuring compliance with fire safety norms, and conducting regular checks of fire safety equipment are the key focus areas of our government said, Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile at PHDCCI’s 4th edition of UFSEC held today, from 10th & 11th July 2025, at India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida.
UP is the largest state in the country, and under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Modi and Hon’ble CM Yogi, the state has worked on strengthening its infrastructure. Earlier, many entrepreneurs were hesitant to invest here. But during the UP Global Investors Summit 2023, over 19,000 MoUs were signed, reflecting investment intents worth approximately ₹33.5 lakh crore, He discussed that this is a very important topic today at this conference many views have been shared regarding the country’s preparedness for such situation.
He further appreciated PHDCCI for working hand in hand with the government for the past 120 years and said that the UP government is consistently working towards the goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy. After agriculture, the MSME sector is the second-largest contributor to India’s economy in terms of employment generation and GDP contribution. Nearly 1.75 crore people have gained employment through MSMEs, and it plays a very significant role in the GSDP of UP.
Uttar Pradesh is moving ahead as a growth engine, the government has recently allotted a sizeable land for a textile manufacturing park in Kanpur and I further urge investors to invest in UP and participate in the state’s vision.
Shri Rajendra Singh, Member & HOD, National Disaster Management Authority, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India discussed that while disasters don’t announce themselves, unpreparedness always does. He added, each life lost and every economic setback is a reminder that preparedness is not just essential but non-negotiable.
He further informed that NDMA has developed comprehensive protocols on chemical and industrial safety and shared that in the past two years, the focus has been on mock drills to enhance real-time preparedness. He informed that Last year, the Hon’ble Home Minister highlighted the need for action in industrial businesses. The 15th Finance Commission allocated ₹5,000 crore to states for expansion and modernisation of fire services, with ₹700 crore allocated to Uttar Pradesh.
Mr Singh deliberated that the success of these initiatives depends on partnership and cooperation, and it is up to the states to utilise the funds. Out of the ₹2.28 lakh crore allocated, 40% has been utilised to provide relief, 30% for rebuilding, 20% for mitigation, and 10% for capacity building. He also advised everyone to take this seriously, learn from past incidents, and be prepared for the future.
Shri Shashank Chaudhary, IAS, ACEO, Invest UP, highlighted upon the investment opportunities in UP. He said UP is the only state with 13 expressways (6 operational and 7 upcoming), the highest number of international airports, and one of the largest numbers of domestic airports. It also has a rapid transport system, enabling sustainable transportation.
He informed that the current GSDP of the state is around $350 billion and that 56% of the total population is in the working age group. Further, UP has an ecosystem of 3,000+ Industrial Training Institutes. On the industrial ecosystem, he stated that the state has the highest number of MSMEs in India (9.6 million), with a 15% YoY growth in the manufacturing sector, contributing 11% to the state’s GSDP. He also mentioned the presence of district-wise export clusters for 75 unique One-District One-Product (ODOP) items and said the government is actively focusing on investment.
He concluded that the state has a favourable business environment, currently ranked 2nd in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) rankings. To attract foreign investment, the state government has launched the UP FDI-FCI policy. He also discussed platforms like Nivesh Mitra and Nivesh Sarathi, along with the Online Incentive Management System, which reflect the government’s commitment to investor facilitation through digital governance.
Shri Sunil Kumar Jha, IPS, Director General Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India discussed how North India especially the Delhi-NCR region is an important industrial corridor, but it also poses various disaster risks. He noted the aging infrastructure and inadequate fire safety equipment in many industries. He highlighted the need for proper fire and disaster preparedness, especially for small-scale industries.
Mr. Jha also noted that climate-induced heat waves further increase the complexity of disaster response. The central government has introduced the Fire Safety Bill to bring about uniformity which has been implemented in Uttar Pradesh. Various campaigns are being promoted across educational institutions through the department’s portal, time-to-time advisories are issued. He informed that BIS issues the National Building Code and that a new version will be released by 2025.
Further he called upon all stakeholders to collaborate and focus on smart fire-fighting technologies, AI, robust training for first responders, and investment in fire research and development making fire safety not just a compliance requirement, but a corporate necessity, responsibility, and priority.
Shri Hemant Sapra, Co–Chair, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI, spoke about PHDCCI providing such a platform where stronger policies and environments can be created, as the life of every individual and worker is important. He informed that PHDCCI has been working for the safety issues for the past 30–35 years. Fortunately, the government has created policies and infrastructure that ensure safety and implementation.
He added that BIS has also upgraded the standards of safety products. He also emphasised that 100% implementation must be ensured and that a conscious effort is needed to maintain safety both personally and in one’s surroundings.
Shri Vivek Agarwala, Co– Chair, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI, discussed on how this conference on industrial safety, fire safety, and disaster response is aligned with PM’s vision of Viksit Bharat. He said that PHDCCI is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, and aligning with the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, both for the country and Uttar Pradesh is the chamber’s goal.
This 4th edition of UFSEC is a step in that direction, focusing on deliberations on such vital issues. There should be One Nation, One Policy, One System, as currently every state has a different policy. We want one unified policy for better resource utilisation, added Mr. Agarwala.
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI discussed that Safety is one of the most important aspects of our lives. Today, there is a need to be aware and prepared. It begins with each citizen understanding its importance and even one act of negligence can cost millions of lives. In a rapidly changing world, awareness of safety at every phase is essential. This expo and conference is a platform to discuss these critical issues and we are truly honoured to have such luminaries here to deliberate on this crucial topic.
He added, nothing is more powerful than protected and well-lived lives. If safety becomes a habit and health is prioritised, then success follows naturally.
Dr. SP Garg, Conference Convenor & Former Executive Director, GAIL (HSE) India Ltd spoke on the theme of the 4th edition of UFSEC and said the conference is critical, as 4% of the world’s GDP is lost due to such incidents. Therefore, we need to seriously discuss and strategise ways to create safer work environments both on and off campus.
Shri Mahesh Kudav, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association and Shri Rajendra Sankhe, Chief Operating Officer, Indorama India Pvt. Ltd. also deliberated on various aspects of safety in the industry. The conference witnessed over 100 exhibitors participated, underscoring the global relevance of industrial safety, fire prevention, and disaster preparedness. The participation of both national and international stakeholders reflects a shared commitment towards building resilient industrial ecosystems and fostering cross-border collaboration on safety standards and technologies. Revolving around the theme “Building a Safe, Sustainable, and Resilient Tomorrow,” UFSEC 2025 aims to foster co-learning through knowledge sharing, promote meaningful interactions among stakeholders, and establish new partnerships and networks.
11, Jul 2025
Acuity Knowledge Partners Launches RFP Pulse to Help Asset Managers Win New Mandates
Bengaluru, India, July 11, 2025 – Acuity Knowledge Partners’ RFP Pulse, a managed digital solution is designed to transform how asset and wealth managers respond to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and DDQs (Due Diligence Questionnaires). Already live with multiple clients, RFP Pulse is delivering measurable results, including 25-30% efficiency gains, reduced manual effort, and improved response quality.
Built specifically for financial services workflows, RFP Pulse combines generative AI, semantic search, and a structured content repository with Acuity’s deep domain expertise and service layer. This format-agnostic solution automates and accelerates document ingestion, content retrieval, draft generation, and formatting across Word, Excel, and digital DDQ tools – dramatically reducing time and effort for client teams.
“We are extremely pleased with the developments achieved through RFP Pulse, an innovative tool that integrates Generative AI with human expertise to enhance productivity and collaboration,” said Sailaja Devireddy, Global Head of Financial Marketing Services at Acuity Knowledge Partners. “We have drawn on Acuity’s extensive experience supporting over 70 financial institutions and 250+ RFP specialists, whose insights have been crucial in developing the transformative capabilities offered by RFP Pulse.”
“RFP Pulse is the result of our strong delivery capabilities and domain expertise in asset management,” said Chanakya Dissanayake, Head of Delivery Strategic Initiatives (Asset Management) at Acuity Knowledge Partners. “By automating every stage of the RFP and DDQ process, we’re helping firms enhance productivity and maintain top-tier quality.”
RFP Pulse has already demonstrated significant impact in live client deployments, including a 70% reduction in time to retrieve responses and over 80-85% accuracy in initial drafts. Clients are experiencing measurable efficiency gains and bandwidth savings, making it a trusted solution for top-tier global asset managers.
“With RFP Pulse, we’re redefining what efficiency and quality look like for asset and wealth managers,” said Jon O’Donnell, Chief Operating Officer of Acuity Knowledge Partners. “It’s a key step forward in our mission to deliver scalable, intelligent solutions that help financial services firms work smarter and stay ahead of the curve.”
11, Jul 2025
How FLAME University Students Are Rewriting India’s Cultural Map with the Discover India Program
Pune, July 11, 2025: What if a university assignment didn’t just teach you but actually transformed you? What if learning meant going beyond the classroom into living stories—between cities and villages, memory and myth, tradition and culture? What if it could carry you from tracing the sacred waters of a Narmada ghat to documenting disappearing dialects in Jharkhand, into fishermen’s kitchens in Raigad, or inside a craftsman’s quiet workshop in Maheshwar? At FLAME University, the Discover India Program (DIP) offers a deep dive into the soul of the country. Here, every journey becomes a chapter in a growing digital archive—one that documents India not just through facts and figures, but as lived, felt, and remembered by its people. Here, you don’t just study India. You walk it and hear it— and along the way, stitch together a cultural atlas of voices, histories, and traditions.
In an age of surface-level scrolling and vanishing reels, the students of FLAME University are building something quietly radical—a living, breathing, digital tapestry of India. And it’s open to all curious travelers, armchair historians, academics, educators, even policy thinkers, and anyone seeking the India that doesn’t always make it to guidebooks or glossy textbooks. Since inception, DIP has evolved into one of India’s most authentic experiential learning journeys. It invites second-year undergraduate students to leave the classroom behind and step into real communities, real traditions, and real tensions. Through the 10-day field immersions backed by months of interdisciplinary research, students become storytellers, documentarians, and cultural archivists.
Speaking on the significance of DIP at FLAME, Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor, FLAME University, said, “The Discover India Program (DIP) is a one-of-a-kind experiential learning opportunity for our students with a rich legacy of more than 300 diverse and engaging projects curated by over 3,000 students, guided by faculty mentors. The DIP gives our students first-hand experience and a close understanding of the socio-economic, cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity of our country and greatly enhances the students’ real-world understanding. The experience helps students to conduct research with humility, interview with empathy, and record with responsibility. It prepares them not just for academic rigor but for a lifetime of civic thinking. In discovering India, they often discover themselves.”
He further added, “The DIP archives are well-designed, vibrant with rich, meaningful content. Visitors can browse by state, theme, or community. From exploring the intersection of music and migration in Rajasthan to how women in Tamil Nadu sustain local economies… DIP has it all, mapped with photos, videos, and on-the-ground stories.”
With over 300 projects, DIP serves as a virtual map of India, built through the eyes and voices of its youth. Not mere academic works, these are raw, real, and first-person narratives of transformation and resilience. These stories emerge from categories as vast as India itself. These include faith, food, urban change, tribal folklore, music, memory, and myth. Housed on the FLAME DIP portal, not as cold research but as warm repositories of lived experience, they are available for everyone to explore.
Prof. Poonam Gandhi, Assistant Dean, Experiential Programs at FLAME, shared, “The latest projects of DIP that speak to my soul include ‘Jal Jangal Zameen’ (a student journey into Mumbai’s Aarey forest, mapping the ecological and emotional landscape of a contested green lung), ‘Ab Hamara Daur Hai, Yeh Naya Indore Hai’ (tracking how Indore’s waste workers are becoming digital citizens in a smart city revolution), ‘Ahilya Bai ki Kahani, Maheshwar ki Zubaani’ (a tribute to oral memory and legacy, through the lens of Maheshwar’s residents), An Exploration of Elephant Rehabilitation in Kottoor, Kerala and Maati Jo Mel, Kutch Ji Kala (a legacy of tradition and resilience in pottery, Kutch, Gujarat), among others.”
As the NEP 2020 emphasizes anchoring in Indian knowledge systems, FLAME University’s Discover India Program is already several steps ahead, quietly laying down the tracks of a pedagogy built on encounter and not just instruction.
11, Jul 2025
Study, Stay, Succeed: Post-Study Work Policies Are Driving STEM Applications
11th July 2025: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) remains the top choice for international students who want to build strong careers in today’s fast-changing world. For years, countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany have led the way in offering world-class STEM education. But now, new countries are gaining attention.
Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands are quickly becoming popular with students from all over the world. These countries offer high-quality education, strong job opportunities after graduation, and helpful visa rules for international students.
“We are witnessing a new era in international STEM education, where access and opportunity are expanding beyond traditional borders,” said Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance. “Today, students need more choices than ever before, with countries like France, Germany, and the UK seeing record increases in study abroad demand, up 150% and 50% respectively. Amid growing uncertainty around U.S. study visas, students are turning to institutions like the Technical University of Munich, Macquarie University, and Imperial College London. At Prodigy Finance, we’re proud to support future leaders in AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Renewable Energy as they pursue world-class education without financial barriers.”
Government policies in these countries have played a crucial role in shaping this trend. For example, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, helping them gain valuable experience and transition to permanent residency. Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) offers similar opportunities, with recent policy enhancements further extending post-study work rights for graduates in high-demand sectors. The United Kingdom’s Graduate visa allows international students to remain and work for at least two years after graduation, and Germany provides an 18-month residence permit for job-seeking graduates. The United States continues to attract STEM talent through its Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension, which together allow up to three years of work experience in a student’s field.
The most recent Open Doors reports confirm that STEM fields are the most popular among international students in the United States. For the 2023/2024 academic year, 56% of international students in the US were enrolled in STEM fields, with Computer Science, Engineering, and Data Analytics among the most popular majors. In the 2021/22 academic year, 54% of all international students studied in STEM fields, and Math & Computer Science was the single largest field of study for international students. The Open Doors data also highlights that, while the US remains the top destination, students are increasingly exploring alternative countries for their studies.
As students and families compare their options, the most attractive countries for STEM education are those that combine strong academics with clear, practical pathways to employment and long-term success.
As study abroad destinations broaden, access to trusted, globally available education financing is becoming a key enabler. Platforms like Prodigy Finance, which support students through flexible, no-collateral loans, are helping make international STEM degrees more attainable for students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds.
For many, pursuing a STEM degree abroad is no longer just a dream; it’s a realistic and rewarding path to a global career.
11, Jul 2025
SALT Unveils ‘Monsoon Mocktails’ with a Modern Indian Twist
SALT Indian Restaurant Unveils ‘Monsoon Mocktails’: A Seasonal Tribute to Indian Flavours with a Contemporary Twist
11th July 2025 – This monsoon, SALT Indian Restaurant brings the rains to life with a refreshing new menu: ‘Monsoon Mocktails,’ a limited-time collection of non-alcoholic beverages crafted with bold ingredients, seasonal inspirations, and SALT’s signature Indian twist. Now available at Pune, Hyderabad, B-City, Miraya Rose, Shantiniketan, Kalyan Nagar, Koramangala, Chennai, VR Mall, and UB City.
Rooted in the fine-dine ethos that defines SALT, the ‘Monsoon Mocktails’ showcase reflects the brand’s distinctive culinary philosophy where traditional Indian ingredients meet modern mixology. Each drink is thoughtfully designed to spotlight homegrown flavours, indigenous spices, and regional fruits, while delivering a clean, contemporary experience in both taste and presentation.
At the heart of this seasonal collection is a lineup of inventive, spice-forward mocktails that capture the mood and magic of the monsoons. Fantasy Burst is a playful blend of pineapple juice and strawberry purée topped with whipped cream, offering a vibrant, tropical kick. Smoked Guava Shikanji layers tangy guava with smoked salt and chaat masala for a fizzy, nostalgic twist on a street-side classic. For something more herbaceous, Basil Lychee Blast brings together muddled basil, lychee juice, lime, and elderflower syrup in a delicate yet refreshing mix. The Golden Warmer, served warm, offers deep comfort with jasmine tea, fresh rosemary, honey, and a touch of ginger, which is perfect for rainy evenings. Rounding off the menu is Drizzling Day, a light and uplifting blend of fresh watermelon, orange juice, basil leaves, and soda that sparkles with seasonal freshness.
At SALT, mocktails are more than just alternatives; they are crafted with the same attention to balance, depth, and finesse as any signature dish and designed to complement the restaurant’s modern Indian dining experience. By fusing traditional flavours with thoughtful techniques, SALT redefines what non-alcoholic drinks can be: expressive, aromatic, and every bit as memorable.
“Our mocktails are an extension of who we are as a brand. They’re rich in tradition, elevated with technique, and infused with the flavours that make Indian cuisine so unique. The monsoon collection is our way of celebrating the season with bold, clean flavours that speak for themselves.”
Crafted for those who appreciate the finer details, the Monsoon Mocktails menu is now available for a limited time. Visit SALT this season and experience the rains, not just outside, but in every sip.
