6, Aug 2025
RBI Holds Rates at 5.5%, Signals Confidence in Growth Amid Easing Inflation
Mr. Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance Ltd.
“The RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate steady at 5.5% with a neutral policy stance reflects a balanced approach, prioritizing both inflation control and growth. The maintained GDP forecast of 6.5% for FY26 signals continued confidence in India’s domestic economic resilience, supported by strong rural demand and a gradual uptick in urban consumption. The downward revision of the inflation outlook to 3.1% from 3.7% is encouraging, suggesting easing price pressures and improved supply conditions.
RBI’s caution on external risks, particularly global uncertainties and geopolitical developments, could impact growth momentum. However, the policy outcome aligns well with the current economic context and provides stable business environment. We are optimistic about the credit demand outlook, especially in semi-urban and rural markets, and are well-positioned to support inclusive growth through sustained lending activity.”
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- By Neel Achary
6, Aug 2025
Pharmaceutical company Medistep Healthcare’s IPO Price Fixed at Rs. 43 Per Share; Issue Opens on August 8
New Delhi, August 6, 2025: Medistep Healthcare Limited, a rapidly growing player in India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare market, has fixed the price of its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO) at Rs. 43 per equity share. The offering comprises up to 37,44,000 equity shares with a face value of Rs.10 each. The IPO, which is being offered through a fixed price issue, will open for subscription on Friday, August 8, 2025, and close on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
The lot size for the issue has been set at 3,000 equity shares. The shares are proposed to be listed on the Emerge Platform of National Stock Exchange of India Limited on August 18, 2025.
Of the total offer, not less than 17,79,000 equity shares are reserved for retail individual investors, not more than 17,76,000 equity shares are allocated for non-institutional investors, and 1,89,000 equity shares are reserved for the market maker portion. Fast Track Finsec Private Limited is acting as the lead manager to the issue, and Cameo Corporate Services Limited is the registrar.
Medisteps intends to raise approximately Rs 16.09 crore from the ipo. The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilised to fund capital expenditure towards the purchase of plant and machinery for expansion at the company’s existing manufacturing facility, to meet working capital requirements, to meet general corporate purposes and to meet out the Issue Expenses.
Founded in June 2023, Medistep Healthcare Limited is engaged in the manufacturing of sanitary pads and energy powders, and in the trading of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, surgical, and intimate care products through an established distribution network. The company expanded its footprint in 2024 with the acquisition of the business of M/s MG Pharma, a proprietorship concern.
The company reported revenue from operations of Rs.4,965.48 lakh in FY25, compared to Rs.3,907.19 lakh in FY24. EBITDA stood at Rs.560 lakh for FY25, up from Rs.454.2 lakh in the previous year, while profit after tax (PAT) rose to Rs.414.42 lakh from Rs.332.76 lakh.
Following the issue, the company’s equity share capital will increase from 1,04,65,546 shares to 1,42,09,546 shares, with a post-issue implied market capitalization of Rs.61.10 crore.
Commenting on the IPO, Mr. Girdhari Lal Prajapati, Managing Director, Medistep Healthcare Limited, said, “The proceeds from the IPO will strategically support our expansion efforts and reinforce our footprint in both domestic and international markets. Our diversified and growing product portfolio positions us well to capitalize on the rising global and domestic demand for health and hygiene solutions.”
6, Aug 2025
Bimaplan Appoints Banking Veteran Anurag Mishra as CEO to Lead Global Expansion
Mumbai, India – 06 August, 2025: Bimaplan, India’s leading embedded insurance platform, has appointed seasoned international banker Anurag Mishra as its Chief Executive Officer. This strategic leadership transition comes as the company sharpens its focus on profitability and accelerates expansion into global markets.
Mishra brings nearly 30 years of experience in global banking and financial services, most recently serving as Regional Head for Global Trade, Commodity & Supply Chain Finance at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, managing complex financial operations across emerging markets. Previously, he spent 15 years at Standard Chartered Bank, including a tenure as CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Nepal, where he led transformative initiatives and built strong institutional relationships across regulatory and diplomatic circles.
“Anurag’s deep expertise in financial services and emerging markets makes him the ideal partner for Bimaplan’s next phase of growth,” said Vikul Goyal, Founder of Bimaplan. “While I continue to focus on product innovation and strategic partnerships, Anurag will drive operational excellence and business expansion.”
The leadership change coincides with Bimaplan’s growing global ambitions. Following the successful launch of its first international program in Zambia, in partnership with a local microfinance institution, the company is now actively expanding across the Middle East and Africa. These regions represent significant opportunities for Bimaplan’s technology-first
“The global embedded insurance market holds immense potential to enhance financial inclusion,” said Anurag Mishra, CEO, Bimaplan. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to forge strategic partnerships and navigate regulatory landscapes across key emerging markets.”
Since its founding, Bimaplan has delivered insurance solutions to nearly 5 million customers by embedding policies into digital journeys at the point of transaction. This model has proven especially effective in reaching underserved segments traditionally left out by conventional insurance distribution.
Operating under Purple Umbrella Fintech Private Limited, Bimaplan has built partnerships with leading insurers and digital platforms in India. The company is backed by marquee investors including Orios Venture Partners, Y Combinator, and Finsight Ventures, having raised $6 million across two funding rounds.
“Bimaplan’s leadership transition marks a pivotal moment in its evolution into a global insurtech leader,” said Sukhmani Bedi, Partner at Orios Venture Partners. “Anurag’s international experience, combined with Vikul’s entrepreneurial vision, sets the stage for sustainable growth across emerging markets.”
With a scalable platform that requires minimal localization, Bimaplan is poised to replicate its success in international markets, starting with Zambia and extending to other underserved geographies where microfinance institutions play a critical role.
6, Aug 2025
Alt’s new campaign Featuring World Chess Champion Gukesh highlights the importance of portfolio diversification through alternative investments
Bengaluru, August 06th 2025: Alt, India’s leading platform for alternative investments, has rolled out its latest digital-first brand campaign, ‘Zugzwang-Proof Your Portfolio’, featuring the youngest world chess champion Gukesh D. This innovative campaign draws parallels from the game of chess to build awareness on the importance of portfolio diversification for long term wealth generation and the role played by alternative investments in building a well-diversified portfolio.
In chess, zugzwang (German for “compulsion to move”) describes a situation where a player is at a disadvantage because they are forced to make a move wherein any legal move that they make in this position would further worsen their situation, often leading to a loss or significant disadvantage.
Similar zugzwang situations could also arise in any investor’s financial investments. When an investment portfolio relies entirely on only one asset class, it is left exposed to market volatility and potential zugzwang situations during unfavorable conditions. The film brings this concept to life by portraying these potential zugzwang situations in investments and how portfolio diversification into alternative assets can avoid them.
Gukesh takes center-stage in the film, demonstrating how preparation, foresight, and a multi-faceted strategy are equally critical for success in both chess and investing.
Commenting on the campaign launch Mr. Kunal Moktan, Co-founder, Alt said, ‘‘We are excited to feature chess prodigy Gukesh D in our latest digital campaign. The campaign aims to educate investors at all levels about the advantages of building a well-balanced portfolio by leveraging private market alternative assets like commercial real estate, AIF funds, REITs, and private credit. Gukesh’s journey is proof that thinking ahead changes the game, and that’s exactly what we at Alt want to help investors do.”
6, Aug 2025
Four Ways to Strengthen Your Medical School Application
6th August 2025: With schools coming to an end, aspiring medical students from India are facing the critical step of preparing for their medical school applications. This process requires lots of planning, dedication, and a strategic approach to stand out in the competitive field of medicine. Prospective students must focus on academic excellence, and develop strong personal statements that reflect their passion for healthcare. With the right preparation, students from India can position themselves for success in their medical school journey, paving the way for a future in medicine that aligns with the region’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
It’s no secret that admission to medical school can be competitive. You’re likely pretty familiar with the basic requirements such as maintaining a good GPA, achieving a strong ILETS score, and writing a compelling personal statement.
But if you want to push your medical school application beyond the ordinary, you’ll need to learn how to make each element as strong as possible.
St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies had a discussion with Dr. Ryan Gray, founder of Medical School Headquarters, on ways students can strengthen their medical school applications. Dr. Gray has advised countless students who’ve gained acceptance to medical school and here, provides some of his best application tips.
How to make your medical school application stand out
Dr. Gray explains that the best way to build an impressive application is to avoid looking at medical school requirements as a rigid list of boxes you’ll need to check.
The following strategies can make a big impact during the MD program application process:
1. Focus on school first
The road to medical school is long. There are several aspects that make up a completed application, and some of them take a considerable amount of time. One of the most helpful pieces of advice Dr. Gray offers to pre-med students is to pace yourself.
Medical schools seek students capable of handling the program’s rigorous academic demands. While GPA isn’t the sole factor, it remains significant, with 3.5 being the average GPA for regional students accepted into medical students. To improve or maintain your GPA, Dr. Gray advises learning effective time management and study methods early on. Once you have strong grades, you can focus on other application requirements.
2. Demonstrate what you’re passionate about
Realistically, you know you’ll be applying to medical school among a sea of other students who have also obtained strong GPAs, impressive test scores, and have a range of related experiences. In that environment, you can let your unique passions and interests shine through to stand out from the other applicants. Your personal statement can be a great place to highlight the things you’re passionate about and demonstrate your leadership and analytical skills.
Dr. Gray advises students to try to focus more on what they enjoy and that will make the application and interview a little different and create conversation.
Medical schools look for a range of different qualities in promising applicants, from social skills to critical-thinking abilities to cultural competence. Whether you’re interested in music, sports, working with children, supporting community issues, or anything in between, there are numerous ways you can showcase the characteristics they’re seeking.
3. Embrace Imperfection:
There are many unwritten rules pre-med students think they need to abide by, but it’s helpful to maintain some perspective. While schools scrutinize your grades and test scores, that doesn’t mean you need to be perfect. In fact, an increasing number of medical schools have been adopting a holistic review process. If you happen to have a bad semester or a bad year because you’re away from home, you can still make the best out of your medical career and thrive through the challenges.
4. Importance of English Proficiency:
For international applicants, one other key element to consider is the performance on an English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. Your IELTS score can have an impact on your MD program admission because it demonstrates the ability to use English competently – critical for the study and practice of medicine in an international setting.
Prepare for your future as a physician
There’s no denying how challenging it can be to get into medical school. But with this advice on how to make your medical school application stand out, you should feel ready to put your best foot forward.
6, Aug 2025
My Office Radio: Transforming Workplace Communication with AI-Powered Radio Engagement
August 6, 2025: As businesses seek smarter, more engaging ways to connect with their teams, My Office Radio has emerged as a game-changer in the internal communications landscape. This AI-powered radio platform transforms everyday office communication into an immersive audio experience that builds culture, boosts engagement, and strengthens organizational alignment.
My Office Radio seamlessly integrates a wide range of internal communication formats, from live town-hall to immersive POSH stories, learning & development content, and Code of Business Conduct, to compliance messages, and leadership talks live via our virtual studios. It also delivers news & updates, fosters interactive team engagement through Q&A sessions, re-purposing podcasts and brings the workplace to life with celebrations, seasonal content, and internal messaging. Streamed securely on mobile, intranet, factory floors, and fulfillment centers. There’s no need for outdated streaming boxes or bulky setups.
Employees can listen anytime, anywhere.
“The future of workplace communication isn’t just about delivering messages, it’s about making people feel connected. My Office Radio brings emotion, culture, and clarity into every conversation, no matter where your team is,” says Binoy Joseph, Founder & CEO of My Office Radio.”
The result is a hyper efficient multilingual communication tool that saves time, enhances message retention, and scales effortlessly across large, distributed teams.
At the helm is Binoy Joseph, a name synonymous with innovation in the Indian radio industry. With over two decades of experience, Binoy has helped shape the country’s FM radio landscape across two decades through stints at Radio Mirchi, BIG FM, Radio City, and Worldspace Satellite Radio. He led the launch of India’s first digital radio streams at Radio City and later founded Spooler Podcasts, a global
podcast consulting firm for enterprises. His expertise in audio storytelling, compliance messaging, and digital infrastructure is what powers My Office Radio’s cutting edge offering today.
In a world where inboxes are overflowing and attention spans are shorter than ever, My Office Radio offers a refreshing way for companies to connect with their teams. By tapping into the power of audio and passive listening, it enables communication that feels authentic, creative, and impactful. It’s a smarter, more human way to keep employees informed and engaged.
6, Aug 2025
Apsara Launch Wows Music Fans
Apsara” Takes Over the Music World — A Spectacular Launch by Mahesh Matkar Featuring Stellar Performances by Mukul Phate & Sakshi Kamble
Mumbai, 6th August 2025, 2025 : Within hours of its grand release, Apsara, the newest visual marvel under the Matkar Musics banner, has taken the Indian music and film world by storm. Produced by the visionary Mahesh Matkar, directed by the talented Suniel Waghmare, and crafted with a dream team of artists and technicians, Apsara has quickly transformed from a song into a cinematic experience. At the core of this soaring success is Mukul Phate, whose magnetic charisma, fiery energy, and soulful performance have captivated audiences across regions. His portrayal of a man enchanted by the divine beauty of the “Apsara” is filled with depth, passion, and artistic flair. From start to finish, Mukul keeps the screen alive, proving himself as a powerhouse of expression and presence.
Bollywood film director and legendary acting coach Mr. Nabhkumar Raju remarked, “Mukul’s performance was truly up to the mark. His screen energy is magnetic; he doesn’t just act, he commands attention.” Standing shoulder to shoulder is Sakshi Kamble, whose natural elegance and effortless grace add emotional texture to the video. Her performance, grounded and genuine, beautifully complements Mukul’s intensity, making their chemistry one of the video’s strongest highlights. Director Suniel Waghmare deserves praise for his brilliant storytelling and precise direction, which bring every emotion, dance, and detail to life. His vision ensures that Apsara not only entertains but leaves a lasting impact. The song’s stunning visual appeal is crafted by Director of Photography (DOP) Suraj Rajput, whose expert camera work gives Apsara its cinematic richness. From warm village frames to vibrant dance shots, Suraj’s lens adds soul, rhythm, and texture to every moment, making each frame a visual delight. Supporting the creative journey are Creative Directors Prachetan Potadar and Neel Deshpande, whose artistic touch helped shape the overall look and mood of the video. Their attention to detail and design sense brought a fresh aesthetic that audiences are loving.
Beyond Maharashtra, Apsara has resonated strongly with audiences in the Tamil and Malayalam film industries. Notably, the Malayalam industry has showered special praise on Mukul Phate for his supernatural yet rooted portrayal of a village boy. Critics and artists alike admired how Mukul carried his signature charm even while staying true to the character’s earthy essence. His nuanced movements, expressive gestures, and strong emotional hold brought the character to life in a way that felt authentic and magical.
Moreover, Mukul’s dance performance is another major highlight. His footwork, rhythm, and on-screen energy show a rare versatility, effortlessly blending Marathi folk flavour with Tollywood vibrance. Every step, every move reflects his ability to transcend regional styles and appeal to pan-Indian sensibilities. With such an overwhelming response and love pouring in from all corners, Apsara stands tall not just as a music video but as a celebration of talent, culture, and cinematic expression. With a dream team at its helm and rising stars shining brighter than ever, this is only the beginning. Matkar Musics, with Apsara, has raised the bar, and Mukul Phate, Sakshi Kamble, and the entire team have announced their arrival on a national stage with absolute brilliance.
6, Aug 2025
IRM India Affiliate Licenses Mahindra University to Launch South India’s First Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management
Hyderabad, August 6, 2025 — The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) India Affiliate, the Indian arm of the world’s leading certifying body for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) exams across 140 countries, has announced a strategic collaboration with Mahindra University to establish South India’s first Global Centre for ERM. This significant partnership highlights the increasing demand for structured and internationally benchmarked risk education in the region, particularly amidst today’s volatile and interconnected global environment, as disclosed in a press note issued in the city today.
The Centre was officially launched a couple of days back by Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, in the presence of Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO, IRM India Affiliate, Dr. Shivdasini S Amin, Head- Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management, faculty, and students.
The newly established Centre will act as a dedicated hub for advancing IRM’s globally recognised ERM qualifications, risk-focused research, faculty development, and capacity building. It aims to nurture a new generation of risk-intelligent leaders capable of helping organisations across sectors anticipate and navigate complex challenges across industries.
Designed with a focus on academic excellence and practical engagement, the Centre will feature expansive physical and digital infrastructure to support continuous learning. It will house a curated collection of over 150 books and publications spanning risk management, strategy, governance, and leadership. An integrated online knowledge resource centre developed by IRM India will provide access to case studies, global risk reports, and white papers. To foster professional connections and peer learning, the Centre will include a networking arena for students, executives, and faculty to engage with visiting experts and industry leaders. As a tribute to global thought leadership, a Hall of Fame will celebrate notable risk influencers from around the world. Additionally, the Centre will feature a comprehensive risk taxonomy that provides structured classifications and definitions of over 300 types of enterprise risks, supporting academic, research, and industry applications.
Through this collaboration, Mahindra University, with the support of IRM India, will train students, professionals, and senior executives in ERM competencies aligned with IRM’s Global Level 1 curriculum. The Centre will also function as a regional think tank, driving research on emerging risk areas such as cyber threats, ESG exposures, climate change, geopolitical instability, and supply chain resilience. Faculty development programmes, policy advocacy, and sector-specific thought leadership will amplify the Centre’s impact across academia and industry.
Speaking at the launch of the Centre, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, Mahindra University, said, “At Mahindra University, we believe that future-readiness is the cornerstone of education. Our partnership with the Institute of Risk Management – India Affiliate is more than an academic collaboration — it is a statement of intent to nurture leaders who can navigate uncertainty with insight, resilience, and integrity. The IRM India Affiliate Centre at MU will serve as a crucible for research, learning, and thought leadership in risk management—an area that is no longer optional, but essential for sustainable progress.”
Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mahindra University, added, “The launch of the IRM India Affiliate Centre at Mahindra University is a forward-looking initiative that reinforces our interdisciplinary approach to education. This partnership aligns with our long-term vision of promoting academic excellence, industry-relevant skills, and internationalisation under the National Education Policy 2020. By embedding risk management into the core of academic inquiry and practice, we are equipping our students to become strategic thinkers and responsible decision-makers. We are proud to collaborate with IRM India Affiliate in creating a new generation of professionals who will shape resilient organisations and societies.
Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO of IRM India Affiliate and India’s Youngest Enterprise Risk Expert, stated, “Our collaboration with Mahindra University marks a pivotal step in democratising access to high-quality risk management education in India. South India is home to dynamic industries such as information technology, manufacturing, infrastructure, finance, defence, and logistics—sectors that face an increasingly complex risk landscape. The establishment of this Centre reflects a shared commitment to developing risk-intelligent individuals and organisations — a vital step toward building a resilient world. May every individual who walks these halls be inspired to lead with foresight, responsibility, and purpose.”
Mahindra University has already demonstrated a strong track record in preparing students for IRM’s global ERM exams since 2021. The launch of the Global Centre for ERM further elevates its role as a regional anchor for risk education and leadership. The Centre will collaborate closely with industry bodies, regulators, and corporate partners to ensure academic offerings remain contextually relevant and aligned with real-world needs. It will also provide a range of programmes in collaboration with IRM India to enhance governance and strategic risk capabilities across the public and private sectors. This partnership represents a significant contribution to India’s broader vision of building a resilient, risk-ready nation powered by risk-intelligent leadership and international collaboration.
6, Aug 2025
Bhaskar Singha Unveils ‘Realms of Peace, V’ at Visual Art Gallery, New Delhi
The solo art exhibition “Realms of Peace – V” by renowned artist Bhaskar Singha will take place at Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre, Lodi Road, New Delhi. The show will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 6 August 2025 at 6:30 PM, and will remain open to the public from 7th to 10th August, The opening will be graced by esteemed personalities from the art and cultural world, including Mrs. Sushma K. Bhal (writer and curator), Mr. Rakesh Gupta and Ms. Tina Vachani (Directors, Routes 2 Roots NGO), Mr. Niren Sen Gupta (former Principal, College of Art, Delhi), Mr. Ashok Bhowmick (artist and writer), and Mr. Johny M.L. (art curator).
Bhaskar Singha’s artistic journey spans nearly three decades, marked by a distinctive visual language rooted in the traditions of Indian philosophy and contemporary socio-cultural narratives. Initially known for his mastery in watercolour, applying up to twelve translucent layers to achieve depth and luminosity, Singha later transitioned to acrylic on canvas while retaining the meditative softness of his earlier work. His themes have consistently reflected a connection to both everyday life and deeper spiritual inquiry ranging from issues like child labour and psychological unrest to depictions inspired by Sanatan philosophy and the teachings of Ramakrishna Mission.
His canvases are poetic reflections of inner and outer worlds. Through symbolic gestures like the breeze on a beach or the solitary runner in a clean India campaign he evokes motion, stillness, and transformation. Works such as “Youth,” “Maa Sarodha,” and tributes to Tagore, Vivekananda, and Satyajit Ray, exemplify his balance of realism, emotion, and philosophical thought.
Bhaskar Singha has previously exhibited across major Indian cities at venues including Jehangir Art Gallery (Mumbai), Birla Academy (Kolkata), Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath (Bangalore), Canvas Art Gallery (New Delhi), and several editions at India Habitat Centre in Delhi. His 2023 edition of “Realms of Peace” at Visual Art Gallery was widely appreciated for its spiritual clarity and visual harmony. With this fifth chapter, he invites audiences once again to experience art not just as imagery but as introspection, a journey toward peace through colour, form, and emotion.
5, Aug 2025
PubliCon 2025: FICCI Calls Publishers Pillars of Research and Innovation
NEW DELHI, 05 August 2025: FICCI today organized ‘PubliCon 2025’, the annual flagship conference on publishing with the theme- ‘Role of Publishers in Research & Innovation’.
As part of PubliCon 2025, the FICCI Publishing Awards 2025 were presented to outstanding contributions across the Indian publishing landscape. The awards spanned a wide range of categories, including Children’s Books (in English and Hindi, for readers below and above 10 years), Fiction and Non-Fiction (in both English and Hindi), and Business Books (covering Self-Help, Economics, Management, and Biography). Additional categories recognised excellence in Translation, Comic/Graphic Novels, and Design and Production, such as Best Cover Design, Best Overall Design, and Best Printed Book.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Ranjana Aggarwal, Outstanding Scientist, CSIR, Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt of India emphasized the importance of inclusive publishing—with a particular focus on Indian languages—and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into mainstream academic and research discourse. She urged publishers to address critical challenges such as accessibility, affordability, and international visibility to foster greater knowledge equity.
Mr Neeraj Jain, Chair of the FICCI Publishing Committee and Managing Director, Scholastic India, set the tone for the day by calling for a more expansive and forward-looking view of publishing. He emphasized that publishing today goes beyond books — it plays a pivotal role in building a robust knowledge ecosystem that supports research, innovation, and national growth. Citing the effective collaboration during the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), Mr Jain urged publishers to act not just as content providers but as equal stakeholders in India’s development story.
Ms Shilpy Kochhar, Head – Business Development & Communications at BIRAC, emphasised the need for stronger science communication to bridge the gap between innovation and society. Highlighting BIRAC’s support for over 12,000 biotech start-ups, she called on publishers to simplify complex research, promote multilingual content, and focus on real-world impact beyond academic metrics. She urged greater collaboration between publishers and innovation agencies to make science accessible, inclusive, and engaging for wider audiences.
Speaking during the panel discussion on ‘Challenges and Opportunities for STM Publishers’ at PubliCon 2025, Ms. Qudsia Ahmed, Head of Academic Publishing at Cambridge University Press, highlighted the need for publishers to bridge gaps in accessibility, affordability, and discoverability, particularly in the Global South.
Dr. Sugata Ghosh, Deputy Managing Director, SAGE South Asia, emphasised the need for stronger institutional and policy-level support to strengthen open access publishing in the region. He identified diamond open access—where neither authors nor readers pay—as the most viable and sustainable model for India, calling for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to make knowledge freely accessible.
Mr. Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, MD of Springer Nature India, underscored the urgent need for a national open access policy to combat predatory publishing and enable a phased transition to OA. Highlighting limited research funding and lack of grant support for publishing, he advocated for regional pricing and a shift in library roles. He welcomed initiatives like One Nation One Subscription and noted that an OA policy is expected soon.
Mr. Madhvendra Narayan from the Indian National Science Academy noted that while technology has streamlined workflows and expanded global access through platforms like Springer, the fundamentals of publishing remain the same. He also pointed out the absence of clear national policy on emerging manuscript practices in India.
The event brought together key stakeholders from publishing, academia, research, and policy to discuss the evolving role of the publishing industry in strengthening India’s knowledge economy.
List of Winners
| Category | Publisher | Name of the Book | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children Book of the Year – English (Below 10) | Pickle Yolk Books | Mommies | Winner |
| Pratham Books | Ajay of Agumbe and the Signal Snake | Special Jury Award | |
| Children Book of the Year – English (10 & Above) | Reado Junior (Readomania) | Thiruvalluvar’s Kural for Kids- Book 1 | Winner |
| Hachette India | The Forestborns | Special Jury Award | |
| Book of the Year – Best Cover Design | HarperCollins Publishers India Ltd. | How to Love in Sanskrit | Winner |
| Pratham Books | When the Sun Sets | Special Jury Award | |
| Book of the Year – Best Overall Design | Roli Books | Iconic Trees of India | Winner |
| Pratham Books | Space Rules | Special Jury Award | |
| Comic Graphic Novel of the Year | Harper Children’s | ZardoZi – Stitched with Love | Winner |
| Book of the Year – Best Production Paperback | Adidev Press Private Limited | My First Shloka Book | Winner |
| Book of the Year – Best Production Hard Bound | Roli Books | Master of the 7 Swars | Winner |
| Best Printed Book of the Year | Replika Press Pvt. Ltd. | Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood & The Ocean Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Oceans | Winner |
| Book of the Year – Best Translation | Ratna Books | Mayaloka (A Novel) | Winner |
| Bloomsbury India | Illuminating Worlds | Special Jury Award | |
| Book of the Year – Fiction (English) | Om Books International | Whistles of the Siphoong: Tales from Assam’s Bodo Heartland | Winner |
| Aleph Book Company | Swallowing the Sun: A Novel | Special Jury Award | |
| Book of the Year – Non-Fiction (English) | Bloomsbury India | The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World | Winner |
| Hachette India | 565: The Dramatic Story of Unifying India | Special Jury Award | |
| Business Book of the Year – Business Self-Help | HarperCollins Publishers India | The Health and Wealth Paradox | Winner |
| Business Book of the Year – Biography of Business Leader | HarperCollins Publishers India | Ratan Tata: A Life | Winner |
| Business Book of the Year – Business Economics | Pan Macmillan India | The Dirty Dozen: India’s Twelve Biggest Corporate Defaulters | Winner |
| Business Book of the Year – Business Management | Simon & Schuster India | Capitalism to Peopleism: Inspiring a Leadership Transformation | Winner |
| Children Book of the Year – Hindi (Below 10) | Eklavya Foundation | Jungle me ek Raat | Winner |
| Children Book of the Year – Hindi (10 & Above) | Publication Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting | Shomu aur Hathraman | Winner |
| Book of the Year – Non-Fiction (Hindi) | Publication Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting | Aashaon ki Udaan | Winner |
