19, Jun 2025
Beacon Unveils Surge in UPI Usage as NRIs Shift from Traditional Banking to Real-Time Payments
Mumbai, 19th June25: Beacon, a leading cross-border fintech platform serving the Indian diaspora in Canada, has released key insights on significant trends in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) usage among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in Canada. The findings highlight a fundamental shift in how NRIs manage cross-border payments and financial obligations in India.
Beacon’s analysis reveals that since UPI has become second nature to users in India, NRIs, especially recent immigrants, carry this behavioral expectation with them as they seek the same speed and ease to send money home or manage expenses. Even older NRIs now accustomed to using UPI because recipients, including family, landlords, or service providers, ask for UPI IDs, not account numbers. This shift represents a significant transformation in transaction patterns, with users moving away from traditional lump-sum remittances toward smaller, more frequent transactions. It allows for better cash flow management and ongoing support rather than large, infrequent transfers, enabling NRIs to stay more engaged with financial responsibilities back home.
Aditya Mhatre, Co-founder of Beacon, commented, “Having migrated from India to Canada myself, I understand firsthand the challenges of managing finances across borders. What we are seeing today with UPI adoption among NRIs shows that there is a clear generational shift toward financial autonomy and digital-first behavior. Our platform enables this transformation by bridging CAD-to-INR payments through UPI infrastructure, eliminating the friction that traditional banking has imposed on the global Indian community.”
Beacon’s research shows that over 70% of Indian students in Canada now prefer mobile-first fintech platforms to manage cross-border transactions. Indian students and NRIs represent one of the most financially active, digitally native segments in Canada, demanding flexibility, speed, and control over their money both locally and across borders. The Indian diaspora in Canada continues to grow rapidly, with Indian Canadians numbering over 1.85 million, representing 5.1% of the population. New permanent residents from India have surged from approximately 33,000 in 2013 to 140,000 in 2023, which is a remarkable 326% increase. In 2024 alone, India accounted for approximately 23.4% of new Canadian citizens, totaling about 87,800 individuals.
Canada’s contribution to India’s remittance market has grown substantially, reaching around $4 billion in 2024. This growth occurs within the broader context of India remaining the top recipient of global remittances in 2024, receiving approximately $129.4 billion. UPI infrastructure processed over 172 billion transactions in 2024, marking a 46% increase from the previous year. This surge underscores UPI’s role as a trusted, real-time payment method for everyday needs, offering NRIs a seamless and familiar experience that bridges their life abroad with financial commitments in India.
Beacon’s insights reveal that NRIs most commonly use UPI for family support, rent payments to landlords, utility bills, school and tuition fees, medical expenses, and service payments including caretakers, drivers, and local consultants. The platform enables users in Canada to pay over 21,000 Indian bills directly in CAD, a first-of-its-kind global solution made possible through partnerships with Yes Bank and Bharat BillPay. Growing numbers of NRIs are moving away from traditional NRE/NRO accounts, which come with challenges such as documentation requirements, minimum balances, tax confusion, and poor digital interfaces. NRIs today want fast, transparent, mobile-first tools, with UPI via platforms like Beacon often representing their first fintech-led alternative designed specifically for their needs.
Beacon bridges CAD-to-INR payments by layering a compliant foreign exchange engine over UPI infrastructure. The platform allows users in Canada to send money directly to any UPI ID in India instantly, securely, and in INR, eliminating the need for maintaining NRE/NRO accounts or dealing with delays and high fees of traditional remittance players. The solution is built with full regulatory alignment across both countries, registered with FINTRAC and compliant with Canadian AML and KYC standards, while working within RBI and NPCI frameworks in India.
Based on adoption patterns in similar corridors like the UK, Singapore, and UAE, Beacon projects that short-term UPI usage could capture 5-10% of Canada to India remittances, driven by digital-first student cohorts, with mid-term projections suggesting expansion to 20-30%, mirroring Singapore and UK’s early adoption curves. The trend reflects a generational shift toward financial autonomy, digital-first behavior, and reduced reliance on traditional banking structures, with Beacon positioning itself as a financial bridge purpose-built for the Indian diaspora to manage money across borders effortlessly.
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- By Neel Achary
19, Jun 2025
MAI Applauds Aamir Khan’s Decision to Release Sitaare Zameen Par Exclusively in Cinemas
National, 19 June 2025 — Multiplex Association of India (MAI) proudly applauds Mr. Aamir Khan for his visionary and resolute decision to release his film, Sitaare Zameen Par, exclusively in theatres on 20 June 2025.
In an era wherein media and distribution platforms have become increasingly fragmented, Aamir Khan’s choice to back the theatrical format reaffirms the enduring power of the big- screen experience. Known for his deep connection with audiences and exceptional commitment to meaningful storytelling, Aamir’s move sends a powerful message — that cinemas remain the premier destination for community-driven, immersive storytelling. It also serves as a rallying moment for multiplexes and single screen theatres all over the country.
“Aamir Khan has always been a filmmaker who puts the audience first. His decision to bring Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively to cinemas is a significant show of confidence in theatres and the shared magic of the moviegoing experience. Indian exhibitors thank Aamir Khan for standing by theatres. As we continue to welcome audiences with renewed energy and world-class films, Sitaare Zammen Par will remain a shining example of cinema’s resilience and its irreplaceable magic” said Kamal Gianchandani, President, MAI.
“Aamir Khan has always been a filmmaker who creates for the theatrical experience. His decision to back cinemas with Sitaare Zameen Par is a significant moment for all of us. It’s not just a film release; it’s a message of unwavering belief in theatres. We’re incredibly grateful to Aamir Khan Productions for boldly standing by cinemas. Sitaare Zameen Par is exactly the kind of film that brings people to theatres, thoughtful, moving, and made for a collective experience,” added Devang Sampat, CEO, Cinepolis India.
As India’s cinemas continue their march forward, Sitaare Zameen Par marks a key milestone, one that reaffirms the vitality of theatrical storytelling and the strong relationship between Indian filmmakers and the exhibition community.
19, Jun 2025
Three-Year Cancer Remissions Mark Milestone for CAR T-Cell Therapy at Narayana Health City
Bengaluru, India 19th June, 2025 – In a landmark development for cancer care in India, two patients treated with CAR T-cell therapy for relapsed follicular lymphoma at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru, have completed three years of successful follow-up—making this one of the longest documented survivals post-CAR T therapy in South India.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy, a cutting-edge immunotherapy, has become a beacon of hope for patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant lymphoma. India now produces CAR T therapy domestically, with two CDSCO-approved products—NEXCAR19 and QARTEMI—making this life-saving treatment more accessible and affordable.
Ms. Perumala (name changed), a 66-year-old homemaker, relapsed with aggressive lymphoma in 2022 and underwent CAR T therapy in March 2023. She has since been in complete remission and is now enjoying quality time with her grandchildren.
Among the long-term survivors is Mr. Rehan (name changed), a 43-year-old from Bengaluru who was diagnosed during the COVID-19 pandemic. After exhausting all conventional therapies, he received CAR T therapy in November 2022. Despite multiple setbacks, including a severe COVID-19 infection and swine flu during his Hajj pilgrimage, he is now in remission and in his third year of follow-up.
India witnesses over 1.4 million new cancer cases annually, with lymphomas accounting for a significant burden among haematological malignancies. While conventional treatments help many patients, relapsed or treatment-resistant cases often have poor survival outcomes. The five-year survival rate for such patients can be as low as 20–30%.
The successful outcomes seen with CAR T-cell therapy, particularly with India’s CDSCO-approved versions like NEXCAR19 and QARTEMI which mark a pivotal opportunity to bridge the survival gap in advanced cancer care. If scaled effectively, this therapy could transform India’s cancer treatment landscape, reducing dependence on overseas options and significantly improving long-term survival rates.
“These cases reflect the transformative potential of CAR T therapy for patients who have exhausted all other options. With this therapy now approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and commercially available, Indian patients no longer need to look abroad for advanced treatment,” said Dr. Sharat Damodar, Senior Consultant, Haematologist and Head of Adult BMT at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru and Chairman of the Oncology Collegium at Narayana Health.
The encouraging outcomes observed at Narayana Health City reaffirm the efficacy of CAR T therapy and represent a significant milestone in India’s journey toward advanced cancer care.
“At Narayana Health, we have always believed that the best of global innovation must be made accessible to every Indian. As one of the early pioneers in cancer care and CAR T-cell therapy in the country, we remain committed to staying ahead of the curve with cutting-edge treatments that offer new hope to patients. Our journey is driven by a single purpose — to make world-class care affordable and available to all,” said Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, Chairman and Founder of Narayana Health, Bengaluru.
19, Jun 2025
Habuild hits the 1 crore milestone as more Indians commit to daily healthy habits
Chennai: Habuild, India’s first habit building platform, has crossed a significant milestone by building a wellness-first community of over 1 crore members across the country. With this achievement, now 1 in every 140 Indians is now a part of Habuild, underscoring the platform’s growing influence in making holistic wellness accessible, inclusive, and routine.
What began as a simple yet powerful idea to make people fall in love with consistency has now evolved into one of India’s largest digital wellness communities. From 1000 users in 2022 to 1 crore in 2025, Habuild’s journey is rooted in creating daily discipline around yoga, mindfulness, and healthy habits, without preaching perfection or pushing unrealistic goals.
Commenting on the milestone, Saurabh Bothra, Co-founder of Habuild , said, “We are deeply humbled and inspired to see over 1 crore Indians committing to better health through daily habits. Our goal was never just numbers, it was to build a movement where wellness is accessible, inclusive, and rooted in discipline rather than motivation. I started Habuild for my mom but even after 1 Crore+ people joining us, this is just the beginning.”
Habuild’s approach offering live yoga sessions, habit challenges, and expert-led conversations continues to resonate with diverse age groups, professionals, homemakers, and first-time wellness seekers. With the platform reaching users in Tier 1 to Tier 4 cities, its philosophy of “doing over planning” is creating tangible shifts in how India engages with health. “We have seen everyone from a 3 year old to a 91 year old attend our session,” added Bothra.
As International Yoga Day approaches, Habuild aims to further amplify this momentum with community initiatives, social impact initiatives, and a call to adopt yoga not as a one-day event, but as a lifetime practice.
19, Jun 2025
MGM Healthcare Performs Rare Skull Base Surgery on 1-Year-Old
Chennai, 19th June, 2025: MGM Healthcare successfully performed a Transnasal Endoscopic Repair of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak from a herniated brain inside nose with Skull Base Defect Reconstruction on a one-year-old child from Odisha. , marking a rare and complex intervention in pediatric endoscopic skull base surgery. This surgery was done using duragen, a collagen-based biomaterial, instead of a traditional autograft. The surgery was uneventful, the patient was discharged 48 hours post-surgery.
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage occurs when there is a defect or tear in the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, allowing the clear, cushioning fluid to escape from its normal pathways. When such a leak occurs at the skull base, it can lead to nasal discharge, recurrent infections, and breathing difficulties.The presence of congenital meningomyocele inside the nasal cavity proved to be the biggest surgical challenge . The condition is extremely rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 cases.
In this case, the child had been experiencing multiple episodes of brain fever, persistent CSF leakage and complete nasal blockage for nearly six months, due to a congenital skull base defect. This is a rare condition where the base of the skull does not fully develop during the growth period. If left untreated may lead to life-threatening complications due to the exposure of prolapsed meninges herniating into the nasal cavities from above. It was left undiagnosed and untreated till the pertinent investigations clinched the diagnosis. In the earlier visits to the hospitals, the baby was treated conservatively in the hope that mouth breathing would abate as the age progresses.Finally , a proper evaluation led to the diagnosis of this clinical entity.
The intra operative innovation using collagen based artificial dura eliminated the requirement for a secondary surgical site, thereby reducing surgical invasiveness, an important consideration in pediatric surgical care. In such an underweight child, especially , during the growth phase , it’s important to preserve the existing anatomy to the extent possible.
Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department, Institute of ENT, MGM Healthcare said, “Navigating through a narrow transnasal route in a one-year-old child with such a high-risk skull base defect is always a surgical challenge. This case reinforces the importance of early diagnosis and timely intervention. Open surgical approaches in such cases can be highly morbid. However, by employing the endoscopic technique along with advanced biomaterials, we were able to minimize scarring, ensure faster recovery, and reduce the overall surgical burden on the child.”
Using advanced high-definition endoscopic imaging technology, Dr. Mohanty and his team successfully navigated the infant’s extremely narrow nasal passage to locate and repair the skull base defect with high precision.
This case also underscores the value of cadaveric dissection-based training and continual upskilling in endoscopic skull base approaches, which enhance surgical precision and enable safer, more effective treatment of rare and complex cases like this one.
19, Jun 2025
Technogym Expands to India, Launches First Boutique in Bangalore
Technogym, an Italian brand, has set the global benchmark in fitness and wellness since its inception in 1983. From a garage to the world, founder Nerio Alessandri began creating innovative equipment in his family garage. Today, the brand is the preferred choice for elite athletes, world-class fitness centres, and discerning wellness enthusiasts worldwide, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched quality.
Marking a significant milestone, Technogym has made its grand entry into the Indian market, offering cutting-edge fitness solutions to a rapidly growing health-conscious audience. With a core philosophy of “exercise as medicine,” the brand combines artificial intelligence, biomechanics, and ergonomic design to create a comprehensive wellness experience. Technogym’s products go beyond traditional fitness equipment, enhancing training, recovery, and overall well-being. With over forty years of expertise in human movement, the brand designs equipment that optimizes muscle activation while preserving biomechanics, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Whether for luxury home gyms or commercial fitness centres, Technogym’s solutions cater to all levels, from elite athletes to beginners or those with specific health needs, transforming India’s fitness landscape with innovation and precision.
The launch of Technogym’s first boutique in Bangalore is more than just a retail expansion—it’s a gateway to next-level fitness. This state-of-the-art space offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore the brand’s most advanced training solutions, featuring some of its most iconic products, all manufactured in Italy. Among the highlights is the Technogym Run, a high-performance, silent treadmill designed for multi surface training, combining running and strength workouts. Also featured is the Technogym Bench, offering a comprehensive library of training content for a versatile fitness experience. Its adaptive running surface enhances comfort and efficiency for users of all levels. The Technogym Ride, designed by cycling champions, features a 22” immersive screen and integrates with top training apps, delivering a professional-grade cycling experience that’s perfect for both home and commercial settings.
With its strategic expansion into India, Technogym is introducing a new paradigm in fitness—one that seamlessly combines design excellence, cutting-edge technology, and a deep understanding of human movement. The Bangalore boutique is just the beginning, setting the stage for Technogym’s vision to become the preferred fitness and wellness solution across the country.
Technogym’s relentless pursuit of innovation and design excellence has earned it prestigious accolades such as the iF Design Award, Good Design Award, and Red Dot Design Award, celebrating its unique ability to blend visionary design with superior functionality. Beyond its award-winning creations, Technogym stands as the trusted partner of leading football and Formula 1 teams, elevating athletic performance through tailored training solutions. As the Official Supplier to 9 Olympic Games, including the Paris Olympics in 2024 & Paralympics 2024, the brand further solidifies its global leadership in fitness and wellness, delivering unparalleled expertise and redefining standards for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a professional athlete, or an industry expert, Technogym invites you to experience the future of wellness. Through its legacy of innovation and commitment to redefining fitness, Technogym is set to inspire a healthier, more active India—one breakthrough at a time.
19, Jun 2025
Narayana Health Doctors Reattach Severed Foot in Rare Surgery
Bengaluru, 19th June, 2025: In a rare and complex surgical feat, doctors at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru, have successfully reattached the foot of a 23-year-old woman, Pavithra, following a devastating road traffic accident (RTA) that resulted in a traumatic foot-level amputation.
The incident occurred on May 14th, when Pavithra was riding pillion with a family member on a two-wheeler and was involved in a collision that led to the complete severing of her foot. Demonstrating remarkable presence of mind, her family quickly retrieved and preserved the amputated limb in a clean, cool condition and rushed her to Narayana Health City within the critical golden window of six hours.
What followed was an intricate, high-stakes surgical procedure led by Dr. Ravi D R, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, supported by a specialised trauma and microsurgical team. The surgery, which lasted several hours, involved meticulous repair of crushed bone, arteries, veins, nerves, and tendons to restore the limb’s viability.
“Foot re-implantation surgeries are extremely rare, especially in cases involving severe crush injuries,” said Dr. Ravi. “Most such injuries are considered unfit for reattachment. However, quick-thinking action by the patient’s family, combined with our team’s preparedness, surgical precision, coordinated care, and overall medical excellence, made this extraordinary outcome possible.”
This case is medically significant not only due to the complexity and rarity of foot re-implantation but also because it demonstrates the level of coordinated trauma care that is available in select advanced centres. To the team’s knowledge, this is the first such successful foot re-implantation performed at their unit since 2018.
Pavithra is currently recovering well under close observation, with early signs of success and the initiation of physiotherapy for rehabilitation. Her case underscores the importance of public awareness in post-amputation first aid—prompt transport, proper preservation of the limb, and immediate medical intervention, which can make the difference between permanent disability and functional recovery.
19, Jun 2025
THE World University Rankings 2025
THE World University Rankings 2025: Amrita Vidyapeetham grabs a spot among the top 50 institutions of the World
“We credit this global recognition to the visionary guidance of our Chancellor, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), whose emphasis on compassion, service, and science forms the bedrock of Amrita’s mission,” said Dr. Maneesha V. Ramesh, Provost of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and UNESCO Chair on Experiential Learning for Sustainable Innovation & Development. “These rankings reflect our deep commitment to building resilient communities through compassion-driven innovation and experiential education that bridges world-class research with grassroots impact.”
19, Jun 2025
Gadkari Receives Collector’s Edition Books on Parrot Conservation, Gandhi’s Legacy from Ultra Media Founder
Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari was presented Collector’s Edition books on Parrot Conservation and Gandhi’s Legacy by Shri Sushilkumar Agrawal Founder Ultra Media and Mintage World
National, 19 June 2025: Shri Sushilkumar Agrawal, the Visionary CEO of Mintage World, Founder of Ultra Media and Entertainment Group, Author and a life member of the Bombay Natural History Society recently met and presented Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, with exclusive Coffee table books from Mintage World titled Endangered Parrots of the World on Stamps, Coins & Banknotes and Global Collectibles of Mahatma Gandhi through Stamps, Coins and Banknotes. “Mintage World”, is world’s first online museum dedicated to vintage and modern coins, stamps, and currency notes, promoting numismatics and philately in younger generation.
Shri Nitin Gadkari was genuinely intrigued by the concept and engaged in a detailed conversation about the countries represented in the parrot collectibles. When he asked why the book focuses exclusively on parrots, the author explained it’s just the beginning — future editions featuring other bird species are already in the pipeline. Shri Nitin Gadkari also mentioned the Mumbai roadside bird park project — a publicly announced initiative by the government, which resonates well with the book’s theme of conserving and appreciating birds. He recognized the potential synergy between the park and such collectible editions in spreading awareness about conserving endangered species and their habitats.
Endangered Parrots of the World” is being launched to celebrate the captivating beauty of these Colorful Parrots from all over the Globe. This Collectible is a unique & a rare Compilation of the various legal Coins, Stamps & Bank Notes issued by various Countries globally on the threatened & endangered species of Parrots worldwide.
It compiles, chronicles, and combines all the legal stamps, coins, and banknotes issued on threatened and endangered parrots, along with their historical and geographical importance globally. It brings to light the various serious issues faced by these adorable pets & the challenges being faced for their sustenance & conservation.
This coffee table book is a well-researched collection that was initiated by identifying endangered parrot species worldwide & determining the scope of data collection, including the period, geographic region, and types of collection. Mintage World engaged with collector communities, online forums & social media groups to source rare and unique information. They also partnered with conservation organizations to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the collection. Additionally, they collaborated with organizations specializing in stamps, coins, and banknotes to access their expertise and resources. Furthermore, Mintage World also teamed up with Bombay Natural History Society(BNHS), one of the largest non-governmental organisations in India, engaged in conservation and biodiversity research & took their support in research & statistics.
“Global Collectibles of Mahatma Gandhi through Bank Notes, Coins & Stamps” is the only book in the world which showcases & explains the various Stamps, Coins & Notes issued by 144 countries around the world on Gandhiji from 15th August 1948 . This Compilation Chronicles & combines in a sequential order along with its historical importance of all the commemorative issues printed and legally minted by different countries and post offices around the world to honour Mahatma Gandhi. Each Coin & Stamp issued in India & Globally on Mahatma Gandhi portrays a significant historical journey of him & India. Starting from the 1st Stamp issued with his figurine on India’s first Independence Day in 1948 to the 50th & 75th anniversary of Indian independence. It also showcases the 75th anniversary of Gandhi’s Dandi March & The Non Violent moment. Also collections on more than 40 countries joining hands to celebrate Gandhi’s glorious legacy of 100 & 150 years & many more
19, Jun 2025
Pelorus Technologies Reports 114 Percent Growth, Sets double digit target for FY 2025–26
19th, June, 2025: Pelorus Technologies, a leading homegrown provider of digital forensics, intelligence, and surveillance solutions, has reported a robust 114% year-on-year revenue growth for FY 2024–25. The milestone reflects the growing demand for cybersecurity and forensic solutions across India and positions Pelorus as a critical enabler of national digital security.
The company attributes this surge to a focused strategy anchored in three pillars—partnerships with top-tier technology providers, successful execution of large-scale turnkey projects for government bodies, and a services-led approach for law enforcement and critical infrastructure clients. One key highlight from the year includes empowering a state police department with a fully functional cyber headquarters, significantly enhancing investigative outcomes and public safety.
Building on this momentum, Pelorus has outlined its roadmap for FY 2025–26, aiming for a 25% growth in the upcoming year as part of its calibrated long-term expansion. It plans to deepen its footprint across India, strengthen alliances with global cybersecurity players, and introduce advanced offerings including AI-led forensic analytics and real-time social media monitoring.
Commenting on the achievement and the road ahead, David Arambhan: Vice President – Sales, said, “This growth reaffirms the trust that institutions have placed in our capabilities. But more importantly, it’s a sign that the digital threats facing our country require urgent, tailored, and scalable responses. At Pelorus, we are building exactly that, solutions designed for India’s unique challenges, from law enforcement to national agencies. Our vision is to make cutting-edge technology accessible where it matters the most, and our goal for the coming year is to expand our reach, enhance precision through AI, and continue supporting agencies on the frontlines of digital investigations, cyber security and big data analytics.”
The company is also channeling investments into artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain to improve the accuracy, speed, and integrity of forensic investigations, ensuring that both public and private sector clients are equipped to counter emerging cyber risks more effectively.
With a sharp focus on scalable impact, Pelorus Technologies is setting the pace for the next phase of India’s digital security ecosystem, built on innovation, trust, and national purpose.
