14, May 2025
Pune’s Billabong High International School Amanora Toppers Shine with an Impressive 95.6% in CBSE 2025 Results
Pune, [14th May 2025 ] – Billabong High International School, Amanora, is delighted to announce the outstanding performance of its first cohort of Grade X students in the CBSE Board Examinations 2025. With a focus on personalized learning, the school continues to nurture learners who excel both academically and beyond, preparing them to meet the challenges of the future.
Billabong High International School remains committed to fostering creative thinkers through a dynamic curriculum and a global perspective. The school’s neuroscience-based curriculum, combined with personalized attention, ensures that learners not only excel academically but also develop critical life skills.
Ms. Aditi Mukherjee, School Leader of Billabong High International School, Amanora, expressed her pride in the learners ‘ accomplishments, “The journey to this day has been filled with anticipation and effort, and our learners have truly risen to the challenge. Educating this batch was not just an academic endeavour but a shared journey of growth and discovery. We pushed them to see their potential, encouraging them to set goals and strive relentlessly towards them. Today, their hard work has paid off, and they have made us immensely proud.”
The school’s tailored approach to education has led to impressive outcomes, with Tamizh Inniyan emerging as the Grade X topper with 95.6%. Other high achievers include Ayushman Suryawanshi (94.80%), Arika Vitthal Gangi (94.0%), and Siddhanth Deepak Nair (90.60%).
Outstanding Academic Achievements Highlighting Excellence in Information Technology
● Ayushman Suryawanshi demonstrated exceptional proficiency by scoring a perfect 100 in Information Technology.
● Arika Gangi also showcased a remarkable performance, securing an impressive 99 in the same subject
School Topper Tamizh Inniyan shared, “I am deeply grateful to my school, principal, teachers, and parents for their constant support in helping me get great results in board exam. My school provided the perfect environment to grow academically and personally. My teachers guided me patiently, always encouraging me to give my best. My parents stood by me with love, motivation, and strength throughout the journey. Balancing studies with sports kept me disciplined, focused, and energized. This journey was not easy, but the support around me made it meaningful and enjoyable. Thank you all for being part of my success—I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Billabong High International School’s success is a testament to the collective effort of the learners, teachers, and the school community. This year’s exceptional CBSE results underscore the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing not just academic achievers but well-rounded, future-ready leaders.
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- By Neel Achary
14, May 2025
Farmley Completes dollar40 Million Series C Fundraise Led by L Catterton
Chandigarh, May 14, 2025 – Farmley, a rapidly-growing healthy snacking brand in India, today announced that it has completed a $40 million Series C fundraise led by L Catterton, a leading global consumer-focused investment firm. Existing shareholders such as DSG Consumer Partners also participated in the fundraise. The investments position Farmley to further scale the briskly-evolving dried fruits and nuts segment of the country’s healthy snacking market.
The dried fruits and nuts segment of India’s healthy snacking market is expected to expand by around 14% annually over the next six years to cross $8.5 billion by 2031 on the back on secular tailwinds. These include consumers’ increasing propensity to swap unhealthy snacks for healthier ones, as well as eat these snacks not only when they feel peckish, but also to meet other needs such as post-workout nourishment and small meal replacement. Consumers are also increasingly opting for branded snacks that offer consistent quality via organized sales channels with better hygiene standards than unorganized ones, just like they have in other packaged food categories.
Farmley has become the fastest-growing brand in its category by offering a diverse portfolio of wholesome, better-for-you snacks via its omnichannel distribution network. Seeking to redefine the future of healthy snacking through innovative products, the company crafts indulgent yet guilt-free snacks based on the goodness of dried fruits and nuts. These include India’s widest range of flavoured makhanas, as well as trail mixes, date bites, and seeds which have garnered market-leading advocacy rates.
Underscoring Farmley’s growing appeal, its revenue has risen by approximately 55% annually over the past two years to reach around INR 370 crore in FY25. Significantly, the company has generated such momentum while also achieving profitability, attesting to its financial discipline. Moreover, its unique farm-to-palm model empowers farmers, promotes sustainable practices, and delivers exceptional quality to its customers.
Commenting on the investment, Farmley Co-Founders Akash Sharma and Abhishek Agarwal said, “We are committed to reimagining snacking for the modern Indian consumer, transforming what was once considered mere convenience food into a wholesome delightful experience. We are thrilled to partner with L Catterton as its differentiated combination of global and local insights into our industry, as well as proven operating capabilities will be instrumental as we continue revolutionizing the healthy snacking landscape in India. Our roadmap includes penetrating untapped regional markets, developing cutting-edge product formulations that blend nutrition with exceptional taste, and leveraging advanced food technology to create snacks that truly nourish both the body and the palate.”
L Catterton Partner and Head of India Anjana Sasidharan added, “Farmley has been able to astutely capitalise on long-term consumer trends with its better-for-you positioning and high-quality products which resonate with customers. Its robust dried fruit and nut sourcing capabilities, prolific new product development engine, and strategic partner status across key sales channels have been vital drivers of the company’s growth in its category. We are excited to collaborate with the talented team at Farmley to further realise the company’s potential by drawing on our experience in building multiple food brands across the world.”
L Catterton has significant experience building brands in the packaged food sector across the world. Current and past investments in the space include Cholula Hot Sauce, Ferrara Candy Company, Goodles, Kettle Foods, Kodiak, Little Moons, NotCo, Planted, and Plum Organics.
14, May 2025
Oxford International Digital Institute Named ‘Rising EdTech Organisation of the Year’ at Ed-Falcon Global Awards 2025
14th May 2025: Oxford International Digital Institute (OIDI) has been recognised as the ‘Rising EdTech Organisation of the Year’ at the prestigi
ous Ed-Falcon Global Awards 2025, held during the EdTalk World Conference in New Delhi recently. The award was presented by Dr Maria Efstratopoulou, Head of the Department of Special Gifted Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, to Ratnesh Mishra, Regional Director Oxford International Digital Institute South Asia. The award recognises OIDI’s contribution to digital education and its efforts to make education more accessible to learners everywhere.
The award recognises OIDI’s innovative work in the field of digital education, particularly through its AI-powered platforms such as the Oxford English Language Level Test (OELLT), the Spotlight language placement test, and the blended higher education programmes offered through the Oxford International Pathway College (OIPC). These initiatives have enabled learners worldwide to demonstrate English proficiency remotely, undergo personalised assessments for accurate course placement, and prepare effectively for university studies, resulting in strong academic outcomes.
Speaking on the recognition, Ratnesh Mishra of Oxford International Digital Institute said – “We are proud to be recognised for pushing the boundaries of what digital education can offer learners around the world. At OIDI, we believe in creating meaningful, technology-driven solutions that expand global learning opportunities. This recognition motivates us to continue building inclusive, accessible, and high-quality pathways for learners around the world.”
The Ed-Falcon Global Awards, held annually in conjunction with the EdTalk World Conference, acknowledge exceptional contributions to education across multiple categories, with a particular focus on innovation, scalability, and impact. The two-day event brought together leading professionals from academia, government, and the EdTech industry to discuss the future of education and share insights on emerging trends.
14, May 2025
Career Transition and Salary Growth Drive 60% of Working Professionals to Pursue Finance Certifications
A recent study exploring upskilling trends among finance professionals conducted by Zell Education has revealed a significant shift in how mid-career individuals are approaching continued learning. The report highlights that a growing majority of finance learners today are working professionals seeking to future-proof their careers in an evolving economic landscape shaped by digital transformation, regulatory changes, and emerging financial technologies.
According to the study by Zell Education, 60% of individuals currently pursuing finance certifications are working professionals, while 40% are fresh graduates. This shift signals a strong motivation among mid-level talent to sharpen their skills, pivot into new roles, or seek career advancement. The most in-demand certifications among this group include ACCA, CFA, and CPA programs that offer global relevance and technical depth. Learners are increasingly prioritizing structured, mentor-led programs over self-paced formats, citing better guidance and outcomes.
The motivations behind this surge in upskilling are multifaceted. Career transition and salary growth emerged as the top two drivers. Professionals are not just looking to climb the corporate ladder within their current roles but are also exploring lateral moves into high-growth sectors. Notably, industries such as banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI), fintech, consulting, and startups are witnessing a marked increase in demand for certified finance talent.
The study also found that nearly 45% of professionals who complete a certification experience tangible career benefits—be it a promotion, a role change, or a salary hike within a year of completion. This figure underscores the strong return on investment that continued learning offers, especially in a domain as dynamic as finance.
Despite these positive outcomes, challenges persist. Time constraints and lack of employer support are the most commonly cited hurdles faced by working professionals pursuing certification programs. However, there is encouraging movement on the corporate front, with a growing number of companies beginning to sponsor upskilling initiatives, indicating a broader recognition of the importance of workforce development in finance.
“Today’s finance professionals are not just looking to move up the ladder—they’re looking to pivot into high-growth areas like ESG investing and fintech. This study confirms a shift in mindset from job security to skill-based agility”, said Pratham Barot, CEO & Founder, Zell Education.
The average age of professionals opting for finance certifications lies between 26 and 30, reflecting a critical career phase where individuals are weighing long-term growth against evolving industry demands. Additionally, new areas such as ESG investing and fintech are gaining popularity, pointing to a shift in the competencies professionals now consider essential for the future.
14, May 2025
APM Terminals Pipavav Concludes Second Edition of Future Leaders Program with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University
Ahmedabad, India – Building on its mission to shape India’s maritime future through innovation and skill development, APM Terminals Pipavav (GPPL), in partnership with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University (GMU), has concluded the second season of the Future Leaders – Foundation Program. This initiative is a key milestone in equipping India’s next generation of maritime professionals with the right mindset, global exposure, and future-ready capabilities.
Held over five days at GMU’s GIFT City campus, the program combines cutting-edge immersive learning with industry mentorship. It’s a direct outcome of the tripartite MoU signed at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 and reflects GPPL’s continued alignment with the Government of India’s Skill India and Maritime India Vision 2030.
This year, 36 participants underwent an intensive curriculum delivered by global subject matter experts. The sessions covered everything from virtual reality-based port and shipboard simulations to legal case studies, sustainability challenges, and supply chain management using Maersk’s renowned “Farm to Fridge” model. Participants also honed their teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities through scenario-based exercises and collaborative problem-solving modules.
The program serves as a launchpad for the upcoming Virtual Reality Centre of Excellence (VR CoE) at GMU—India’s first immersive learning hub designed for the maritime, logistics, and heavy industry sectors. Backed by Maersk’s global training ecosystem, the CoE will offer high-impact leadership and safety training using advanced simulations. It aims to upskill students and young professionals with global best practices and create pathways for international collaboration across Maersk CoE locations in Japan, Saudi Arabia, the US, and Taiwan.
This initiative strengthens GPPL’s long-term commitment to developing a competitive and sustainable maritime workforce. It is also a testament to Gujarat’s growing role as a maritime education and innovation hub. Through strong industry-academia collaboration, the program is helping bridge the skill gap and prepare India’s youth to lead on the global maritime stage.
Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Mr. Girish Aggarwal, Managing Director of APM Terminals Pipavav, said: “This program is more than an academic exercise. It’s a platform where the future of India’s maritime sector takes shape—young, curious minds are exposed to innovation, global practices, and sustainability. We are immensely proud to see the second season conclude successfully and remain committed to equipping India’s youth with the right tools to lead tomorrow’s maritime transformation.”
The second edition concluded with an engaging closing ceremony at Gujarat Maritime University, graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Sanjeevi Shanthakumar (Chancellor, GMU), Dr. Tanuja Kaushik, Dr. Abhay Singh Thakur, and facilitators from Maersk Training including Capt. Jaspreet Singh Puri, Porchelvan Arun, and Pricilla Stephen. Their collective guidance and participation marked the successful culmination of a high-impact learning journey.
Strategically aligned with the Government of India’s Skill India Mission, the program highlights how strategic collaboration between industry and academia can drive meaningful talent development for the maritime sector.
14, May 2025
Hansgrohe India Launches LavaPura Element S, Redefining Smart Hygiene for Modern Bathrooms
India, 14 May 2025— hansgrohe, the premium German brand in bathroom and kitchen solutions, officially announced the launch of its latest innovation — the LavaPura Element S series of e-toilets for the Indian Market. Blending effortless hygiene, design-led luxury, and modern-day convenience, the LavaPura Element S reaffirms Hansgrohe’s commitment to transforming everyday bathroom rituals through smart technology, sustainable design, and understated elegance.
Crafted primarily for private residences but equally suited for high-end hospitality environments, the LavaPura Element S series is engineered to meet Indian lifestyle needs — offering intuitive features, seamless installation, and reliable performance tailored for local conditions.
“Smart bathrooms are no longer aspirational; they’re becoming essential in modern homes and hotels. We’re seeing a clear shift in Indian consumer preferences toward intuitive, hygiene-focused bathroom solutions,” said Abhijeet Sonar, Head of Marketing, India and SAARC Region, Hansgrohe. “The LavaPura Element S series delivers just that — a lifestyle upgrade that combines advanced hygiene features with minimalist, user-friendly design. We’re excited to bring this innovation to discerning homeowners and hospitality spaces across India.”
Highlights of the LavaPura Element S:
eSanitize Ion Sterilisation:
Innovative electrolysed water technology cleans and sterilises inner walls and nozzles with up to a 99% sterilisation rate. After sterilisation, the ions naturally revert to water, ensuring a natural and skin-friendly cleaning process.
UV Sterilisation:
Antibacterial material nozzles are reinforced with UV sterilisation, maintaining cleanliness after every use.
Hygiene Effect Pure Shield® Technology:
For ceramic surfaces that are prone to contact with the human body (such as the inner wall of a toilet), Using reassuring materials containing effective antibacterial factors, offering users enhanced protection and peace of mind.
OdorFresh Water-Based Odour Neutralisation:
Specialised odor-spraying technology neutralises odours without relying on consumables, delivering a sustainable and low-maintenance solution.
AquaHelix 360° Vortex Flush:
A silent, powerful 360° vortex flush system ensures thorough coverage with minimal noise and is operable even during power outages.
AquaWash Multi Comfort Wash:
Multiple wash modes — including bidet wash, feminine wash, massage wash, and moving wash — offer a gentle, progressive hot water experience for personalised comfort.
Apart from the stand-out features, the comprehensive design aesthetics also consist of IPX4 waterproof remote control; Status breathing light displaying functional operational modes; sensing night light, automatic flush and opening and closing covers; multi stage seat-heating and SmartClean glazed surface that is easy to clean.
In a post-pandemic world, where hygiene and smart automation are rapidly reshaping consumer expectations, hansgrohe’s LavaPura Element S series represents the next frontier in bathroom innovation.
The LavaPura Element S is now available across India through hansgrohe’s extensive dealer and showroom network. With this launch, Hansgrohe India continues to set new benchmarks in premium bathroom solutions, offering consumers a smarter, cleaner, and more luxurious everyday experience.
hansgrohe stands for holistic bathroom experiences that combine water- and energy-saving technologies, intelligent functions and long-lasting quality. With timeless and innovative premium products, the brand supports a sustainable lifestyle and transforms daily water routines into extraordinary experiences. Driven by a unique pioneering spirit, hansgrohe, together with its long-standing partner PHOENIX, creates living environments and product solutions for bathrooms and kitchens that enrich everyday life with more design, comfort and enjoyment. Within the internationally active Hansgrohe Group, the premium brand hansgrohe manufactures, markets and distributes showers, shower systems, bathroom and kitchen faucets, bathroom accessories, furniture, sanitary ceramics and kitchen sinks worldwide under the hansgrohe brand. hansgrohe. Life is waterful.
14, May 2025
Tim Hortons launches India’s Coolest Boba Ever
National, 14.05.25: Tim Hortons® India is thrilled to introduce its brand-new Summer Poppers with Popping Boba – first time ever in India! These delightful little #SummerPoppers are bursting with juicy flavor, offering a fun and exciting twist to your favorite sips. Ditch the boring—sip into something BOBA-licious! Inspired by the vibrant summer flavors that India loves, our all-new Summer Poppers come in three exciting variants: Spicy Jamun, Mosambi Litchi, and Aam Panna. Each sip promises a refreshing burst that will invigorate your summer mood.
Our Summer Poppers range brings together three captivating variants, each a tribute to India’s most cherished tastes, crafted for pure enjoyment. Spicy Jamun delivers a bold, tangy twist on the classic Indian berry with a hint of spice that tingles your taste buds. Mosambi Litchi offers a refreshingly sweet blend that combines zesty sweet lime with exotic litchi notes. Aam Panna brings the nostalgic raw mango goodness that India adores, reimagined with playful popping pearls that burst with every sip and tingle your taste buds. Each #SummerPopper transforms an ordinary beverage moment into an adventure of texture and taste, every sip delivering tiny explosions of flavor. It’s the perfect way to beat the sweltering Indian summer heat while indulging in a trendy treat that’s taking the world by storm.
On this launch, Tarun Jain, CEO of Tim Hortons India, shared, At Tim Hortons India, we’ve thoughtfully crafted our new Summer Poppers range to celebrate timeless Indian flavours in an exciting Popping boba platform that will appeal to our discerning customers across all age groups. We understand that today’s consumers are looking for more than just a thirst quencher – they want an experience that’s not only Instagram-worthy and culturally relevant, but also refreshingly delicious. By combining the global trend of popping boba with India’s most signature flavors, we’re creating a perfect summer getaway that’s as much fun as it is refreshing.”
These trendy Popping Boba beverages are now available across all Tim Hortons® cafés nationwide, as well as through Swiggy and Zomato. Don’t miss the chance to try these limited-edition #SummerPoppers and Your ultimate summer refresher is here—get ready to sip, chill, and thrill!
14, May 2025
Suraj Pratap Singh Opens Up About Bagging His First Lead Role in Sun Neo’s Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani: I feel it is Mahadev’s blessing
Actor Suraj Pratap Singh, who has previously charmed audiences in TV shows, web series and music videos, is on cloud nine after bagging his first lead role in Sun Neo’s Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani.
Expressing his excitement, Suraj shared, “I’ve been thrilled about this show ever since I read the script. I knew I had to land this role, so I practiced non-stop for the mock shoots — even used my ring light as a co-actor! After doing three mock shoots, I went to the temple with my mom, and the priest gave me a rudraksha. Right after that, I got the call saying I was selected! I honestly feel like it is Mahadev’s blessing. Even though only the teaser is out so far, I can’t contain my excitement — I’m just over the moon!
He added, “Being chosen for this role feels like a dream come true, and I’m so excited to bring this character to life. This is a new chapter for me, and I can’t wait for the audience to see what we’ve been working on. The love story, the mystery, everything about the show feels special — I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity.”
Sun Neo recently revealed the teaser for Divya Prem: Pyaar aur Rahasya Ki Kahani, instantly creating a buzz with its intriguing visuals. The teaser unveiled the faces of the lead pair, Megha Ray and Suraj Pratap Singh, sparking curiosity and excitement among viewers. It hints at a narrative filled with love, destiny, and hidden mysteries, while the powerful imagery of Mahakal sets a divine tone, drawing the audience into a world of magic and suspense.
14, May 2025
WPI Falls to 0.85%—Disinflation Strengthens Case for June Rate Cut, Says MP Financial’s Mahendra Patil
By- Mahendra Patil, Founder and Managing Partner, MP Financial Advisory Services LLP for your kind perusal.
“India’s inflation landscape has turned benign, with retail inflation (CPI) moderating to a near six-year low of 3.16% in April 2025 and wholesale inflation (WPI) plunging to just 0.85%. This dual disinflation, led by a sharp correction in food prices and easing fuel and primary article costs, offers a substantial macroeconomic tailwind. With food inflation at the consumer level down to 1.78% and WPI food inflation easing to 2.55%, the pricing environment is increasingly favorable for rural consumption recovery.
This broad-based softening in inflation, particularly at the wholesale level, strengthens the case for the Reserve Bank of India to continue the rate cut cycle in the June policy meeting as well. Such a move would lower borrowing costs, revive capex appetite among corporates, and offer rate-sensitive sectors such as housing, automobiles, and MSMEs a timely boost.
However, the mild uptick in core inflation segments like health (4.25%), education (4.13%), and housing (3%) suggests services inflation remains sticky. Nonetheless, the current environment is ideal for a calibrated monetary stimulus to revive growth amid global trade uncertainties and moderate commodity prices. Lower input cost inflation as reflected in the WPI will also help firms protect margins without hiking prices, thereby supporting profitability and private sector investment momentum.”
14, May 2025
Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company Ltd. announces steady performance for FY2024-25
Chandigarh, May 14, 2025: Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company Ltd. (RNLIC), one of India’s leading life insurance companies, today announced its audited financial results for the financial year ended March 31, 2025. The company delivered a steady performance across key metrics while continuing to strengthen its customer focus and operational resilience.
For FY2024-25, RNLIC reported a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of ₹247 crore, reflecting a strong growth of 25% over the previous year (₹198 crore in FY2023-24). The company’s Assets Under Management (AUM) stood at ₹38,725 crore, marking a 9% year-on-year growth. New Business Premium (NBP) grew to ₹1,245 crore, and Total Premium rose to ₹5,711 crore, reflecting steady business momentum.
The company continued to maintain a strong Solvency Ratio of 235%, well above the regulatory requirement, reflecting a robust balance sheet and prudent capital management.
Customer-centricity remained a core pillar, with a Claim Settlement Ratio of 98.9%, as on March 31, 2025, and ₹3,523 crore paid in benefits to ~5.4 lakh customers during the year, an increase of 8% over the previous year. The company’s 13th month persistency for FY2024-25 by premium* stood at a healthy 80.8%, reflecting strong customer trust and continued engagement. The number of active advisors grew by 13%, increasing its active advisor base to nearly 69,000, further strengthening the company’s reach and advisory capability.
In a reaffirmation to its long-term commitment, RNLIC declared bonuses to its participating policyholders and distributed bonuses totalling ₹351 crore during the FY24-25, rewarding 5.2 lakh customers for their continued confidence in the company. This marks the 24th year of consistent bonus declarations, supporting RNLIC’s promise of long-term value creation and financial security for its customers.
The company’s Embedded Value rose to ₹7,397 crore, up from ₹6,885 crore in last fiscal supported by consistent business performance and improved operational efficiencies.
Key Financial Highlights (₹ in crore):
| Metric | FY2024-25 | FY2023-24 | Growth (%) |
| Total Premium | 5,711 | 5,537 | 3% |
| Assets Under Management | 38,725 | 35,508 | 9% |
| Profit Before Tax | 247 | 198 | 25% |
| Claim Settlement Ratio | 98.9% | 98.8% | — |
| Benefits Paid to Customers | 3,523 | 3,263 | 8% |
| Number of Active Advisors | 68,793 | 61,036 | 13% |
| Solvency Ratio | 235% | 227% | 8% |
Employee Focus: Certified as Great Place to Work in 2025, for the sixth consecutive year, highlighting commitment to employee well-being. Also recognized as Top 50 Large Workplaces Building a Culture of Innovation for All.
Product Innovation: Launched 6 new innovative and thoughtful products complying with IRDAI Regulations across various segments that cater to the varied needs of our customers.
Commenting on the performance, Mr. Ashish Vohra, Executive Director & CEO, Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company, said: “We are pleased to report a year marked by strong performance and improved profitability, driven by disciplined execution, customer-first thinking, and robust fundamentals. Our continued focus on strengthening distribution, enhancing customer experience, and maintaining financial prudence has helped us navigate a dynamic environment. The combined strength of IIHL and Nippon Life Insurance, backed by their shared commitment to long-term growth and excellence, will help us unlock greater outcomes for all stakeholders, drive strategic expansion, and continue building a legacy of trust for the future. We remain committed to building a future-ready, customer-centric life insurance company with a clear vision to scale and lead with trust, innovation, and performance.”
