21, Jul 2026
Zigly Foundation Partners with Praana Foundation to Promote Preventive Healthcare for Community Dogs in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, 21 July: Zigly Foundation, the CSR arm of Zigly Pet Care, joined hands with Praana Foundation to conduct community feeding drive and distribute anti-rabies vaccination coupons across Bengaluru. The initiative was supported by Ms. Samyukta Hornad, acclaimed actress and Founder of Praana Foundation. It brought together volunteers, animal welfare advocates and members of the local community to promote compassionate care, responsible co-existence with community animals and greater awareness around preventive healthcare.
The drive covered JP Nagar and BTM Layout, with the main event being held at JP Nagar. The initiative mobilised 50 volunteers, facilitated the distribution of 250 complimentary Anti-Rabies Vaccination (ARV) coupons for community dogs and supported the donation of 200 kilograms of dog food for community feeding efforts. Local residents also had the opportunity to engage with volunteers from Zigly Foundation and Praana Foundation, who encouraged conversations around responsible community animal care, preventive healthcare and the importance of timely anti-rabies vaccination.
Speaking on the initiative, Ms. Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation and Whole time Director (Corporate Strategy, ESG and CSR), Cosmo First said, “At Zigly Foundation, we believe meaningful impact begins with compassion and collective action. Preventive healthcare is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of animal welfare. In fact, our recent research found that 75% of first-time Gen Z and Millennial pet parents missed at least one vaccination for their pets in the past year, reinforcing the need for greater awareness around timely vaccinations. We are proud to partner with Praana Foundation, who share our belief that the welfare of every animal is a shared responsibility. We hope this initiative inspires more individuals and organisations to come together to build safer, healthier and more compassionate communities.”
Ms. Samyukta Hornad, Founder, Praana Foundation Said. “Community animals are an inseparable part of our neighbourhoods, and it is a collective responsibility to take care of them. Every meal served, every conversation about awareness, and every vaccination supported is a step in building safer and healthier communities for both animals and people. We hope this will inspire more citizens to get involved in improving the lives of community animals.”
The initiative marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between Zigly Foundation and Praana Foundation, with weekly community feeding and preventive healthcare awareness drives planned across Bengaluru. As part of this sustained effort, both organisations will continue mobilising volunteers, distributing Anti-Rabies Vaccination (ARV) coupons and supporting community feeding initiatives to strengthen awareness around responsible community animal care.
This is another step in Zigly Foundation‘s continued commitment to building healthier, safer and more compassionate communities for both people and animals.
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- By Neel Achary
21, Jul 2026
Mid Year Sale by Accor Offers Up to 25 percent Off Stays at Novotel Vijayawada Varun
Vijayawada, 21 July: Accor is making every getaway more rewarding this season with its Mid Year Sale, inviting travellers to experience world-class hospitality for less. Offering savings of up to 25% across more than 1,500 participating hotels in Asia Pacific, Africa and beyond, including Novotel Vijayawada Varun, the limited-time offer makes it the perfect time to plan a city escape, family holiday or well-deserved staycation.
“At Novotel Vijayawada Varun, we believe a memorable getaway should be both accessible and exceptional. Accor‘s Mid Year Sale gives travellers the perfect opportunity to experience our warm hospitality and distinctive dining experiences at even greater value. Whether it is a relaxing weekend staycation, a family break or a business trip extended into leisure, we look forward to welcoming guests for an unforgettable stay in the heart of Vijayawada.”says Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun
21, Jul 2026
Arvind Fashions Reports 24 pc Decline in Q1 Profit Amid Market Challenges
New Delhi, July 21: Fashion and lifestyle retailer Arvind Fashions, which manages brands including Arrow, Calvin Klein, and Tommy Hilfiger, reported a 24 per cent decline in its first-quarter profit, reflecting challenges in the current market environment.
The company’s performance was impacted by changing consumer demand, competitive pressures, and evolving retail trends during the quarter. Despite the decline in profitability, the company continues to focus on strengthening its brand portfolio and expanding its presence in the fashion and lifestyle segment.
Arvind Fashions has been working on improving operational efficiency, enhancing customer engagement, and adapting its business strategy to changing consumer preferences.
Industry observers said the retail sector continues to face pressure from cost challenges and shifting buying patterns, requiring companies to focus on innovation and sustainable growth strategies.
The company remains committed to building its premium and lifestyle brand ecosystem while exploring opportunities to drive long-term growth.
The latest quarterly performance highlights the need for fashion retailers to balance growth initiatives with cost management amid a rapidly changing consumer market.
21, Jul 2026
India’s Housing Market Records 3 pc Growth in Residential Sales During January-June Period
New Delhi, July 21: India’s residential real estate sector witnessed steady growth in the first half of 2026, with housing sales increasing by 3 per cent during the January-June period, according to a latest industry report.
The growth reflects continued demand for residential properties, supported by improving infrastructure, urban development, and sustained buyer interest across key markets.
Real estate experts said the sector has maintained stability amid changing market conditions, with homebuyers showing preference for well-planned projects offering better amenities, connectivity, and long-term value.
The rise in sales highlights the resilience of India’s housing market and its important contribution to economic activity through investment, employment generation, and growth of allied industries.
Industry stakeholders expect residential demand to remain steady, driven by urbanisation, rising aspirations, and continued interest in home ownership.
The latest trend indicates a positive outlook for the real estate sector as developers and buyers continue to adapt to evolving market needs.
21, Jul 2026
FCNR-B Inflows May Reach Dollar 70 Billion, Easing Bank Liquidity Concerns
New Delhi, July 21: India’s banking sector may see improved liquidity conditions as inflows through Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR-B) deposits are projected to increase significantly, with estimates suggesting they could reach up to $70 billion.
The expected rise in FCNR-B deposits is likely to provide banks with additional foreign currency resources and help ease funding pressures. The inflows are seen as a positive development for banks managing liquidity requirements amid changing financial conditions.
FCNR-B deposits allow non-resident Indians (NRIs) to place fixed deposits with Indian banks in foreign currencies, offering them an investment avenue while supporting the country’s financial system with overseas funds.
Banking experts believe stronger inflows could improve foreign currency availability, enhance funding stability, and support smoother operations for financial institutions. The development also reflects continued confidence among NRIs in India’s economic growth prospects.
As banks monitor deposit trends and market conditions, the expected increase in FCNR-B inflows is likely to play a role in maintaining a balanced liquidity environment and supporting the broader financial ecosystem.
The move comes as financial institutions continue efforts to strengthen their funding base and ensure adequate liquidity to support economic activity.
21, Jul 2026
HCLTech report exposes widening AI divide with only 18 percent of enterprises seeing revenue impact despite near-universal adoption
New York And Noida, India, July 21: HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today released its global research report, The Blueprint for AI Leadership, revealing a widening gap between organizations adopting AI and those realizing meaningful business value.
The study, conducted with Raconteur among 500 enterprise decision-makers, shows that AI adoption is no longer the constraint. 90% of organizations report that GenAI and Agentic AI are transforming workflows, with 91% citing improved data access and 90% reporting productivity gains.
However, alarmingly, only 18% say AI is delivering significant revenue impact, exposing a critical gap between operational progress and business outcomes. These enterprises have emerged as AI Leaders by not just adopting AI, but by systematically converting it into growth, innovation and customer experience advantage. These enterprises are four times more likely to scale agentic and autonomous AI, with superior execution in defining measurable use cases (73% vs. 22%) and securing senior leadership sponsorship (63% vs. 36%).
The lagging enterprises that act as AI Followers remain trapped in incremental gains, evaluating AI through efficiency and cost lenses alone, limiting their ability to compete on differentiated outcomes or scale impact enterprise wide.
The divergence is sharpest in foundations. AI Leaders have integrated AI into business strategy, built data readiness and are far ahead in workforce transformation, with 93% having structured upskilling programs, compared to just 20% of AI Followers.
Critically, Leaders are embedding AI into core workflows and decision-making, enabling scaling, adaptability and continuous improvement, capabilities AI Followers are yet to institutionalize. This shift from deploying tools to orchestrating enterprise-wide transformation is the defining advantage in AI maturity.
“AI has entered a decisive phase, and success will come down to how well organizations bring people, data and technology together,” said Pawan Vadapalli, Corporate Vice President and Global Head, Digital Business Services at HCLTech. “The organizations pulling ahead are not just running more pilots; they are rethinking how the business works, embedding AI into everyday decisions and workflows. It is this coordinated shift across leadership, culture and foundations that turns AI from a tool into real, long-term advantage.”
To access the full report, please visit: The Blueprint for AI Leadership: AI ROI Report | HCLTech
21, Jul 2026
Rise of PIK Structures Masks Borrower Stress and Challenges Private Credit System, New Study Shows
July 21: A substantial liquidity shift is underway in the global private markets as private equity fund managers are increasingly turning to PIK (payment-in-kind) structures to manage cash flows, which in turn is raising challenging questions around transparency and risk management, according to new research* from Ocorian, a leading U.S. and global asset services provider.
The study of private equity fund managers in in the U.S. and across Europe, managing $3.511 trillion, found that almost nine out of 10 (86%) expect PIK prevalence within their private credit exposure to grow over the next two years. Of these, 4% say their use will increase dramatically, and 82% say it will increase slightly. The remaining 14% believe PIK prevalence will remain unchanged.
Search for flexibility in a challenging market
PIK structures allow borrowers to issue additional debt or equity to lenders rather than servicing interest obligations with immediate cash payments. While this provides breathing room for portfolio companies, it simultaneously signals underlying vulnerabilities in corporate balance sheets.
Worryingly, nine in 10 (90%) of those surveyed agree that there is a growing risk of PIK usage masking true borrower distress, with 16% of these strongly agreeing that deferring hard cash obligations makes it difficult to distinguish between proactive capital management and severe liquidity struggles.
Anatoly Sorin, UK Head of Loan Agency and Bond Trustee Services at Ocorian, said: “Our research reveals an overwhelming consensus that PIK structures are on the rise, and private equity fund managers are doing everything they can to support portfolio companies through a prolonged period of higher financing costs. However, this flexibility does come with a warning label.”
As PIK adoption grows, capability gaps emerge
In addition to this challenge, Ocorian’s study also exposes operational and technological vulnerabilities connected to the growing adoption of PIK structures. As PIK interest compounds, it directly alters preferred return hurdles, the distribution waterfall, and the complex calculation of realised versus unrealised gains – the metric that ultimately dictates performance fees, or ‘carried interest’.
Only 17% of firms surveyed report having robust, automated systems capable of fully accounting for PIK compounding within the waterfall modelling. Just under a third (32%) admit they rely entirely on external providers, such as fund administrators, to handle the structural complexity. Just over a third (39%) acknowledge they can model PIK but require significant manual adjustment, while 10% say this remains a gap in their current capabilities. A further 2% state that PIK is not yet material enough in their current portfolio to warrant a dedicated system.
Anatoly Sorin, UK Head of Loan Agency and Bond Trustee Services at Ocorian, added: “With PIK structures becoming more prevalent, firms’ operational and technological capabilities must keep pace, either in-house or by outsourcing to expert third-party fund administrators with the skills and experience required to ensure that waterfall and carry calculations remain accurate, consistent and transparent.”
Abi Reilly, Partner, Regulatory & Compliance at Ocorian said: “As firms navigate the operational demands of PIK structures, governance and oversight need to remain front of mind. It is important that firms are able to evidence how these structures are monitored, modelled and reported on, particularly where complexity increases and third-party support is involved.”
21, Jul 2026
Government Plans Simplified Export Rules to Support Small Businesses and Boost Trade
New Delhi, July 21: The government is considering easing export-related regulations to support small exporters and help them expand their presence in global markets.
The proposed changes aim to simplify compliance procedures, reduce operational challenges, and make it easier for small businesses to participate in international trade. The move is expected to benefit exporters who often face difficulties navigating complex processes and documentation requirements.
Small and medium-sized exporters play an important role in India’s economy by creating employment opportunities and contributing to the country’s export growth. The proposed reforms are aimed at providing them with a more business-friendly environment and improving their competitiveness.
Officials said the government is focusing on reducing procedural hurdles while ensuring that export systems remain transparent and efficient. Easier rules could encourage more small businesses to explore overseas markets and strengthen India’s position in global trade.
Industry representatives have welcomed steps aimed at improving ease of doing business, saying simplified processes can help smaller exporters save time, reduce costs, and focus on expanding their operations.
The proposed measures are part of the government’s broader efforts to promote exports, support entrepreneurship, and create more opportunities for businesses across sectors.
The final framework is expected to be shaped after consultations with stakeholders and relevant authorities.
21, Jul 2026
Explore Finland: The Best Day Trips from Helsinki
July 21: Helsinki is more than Finland’s vibrant capital, it’s the ideal gateway to experiencing the country’s diverse landscapes, heritage and culture. For Indian travellers flying directly to Helsinki with Finnair, Finland’s efficient rail and public transport network provides seamless access to destinations beyond the capital, from medieval towns and pristine national parks to emerging cultural hubs, all within a few hours. These easy day trips offer an opportunity to experience a different side of Finland while making the most of a Helsinki itinerary.
Porvoo: Finland’s Most Charming Medieval Town
[Credit: Finnair]
Located just over an hour from Helsinki, Porvoo is one of Finland’s oldest towns and among its best-preserved medieval destinations. The picturesque Old Porvoo is characterised by cobbled streets, colourful wooden houses and the iconic red riverside warehouses that have become symbols of the city. Highlights include the historic Porvoo Cathedral, independent boutiques, art galleries and local cafés, where visitors can sample the traditional Runeberg Torte, one of Finland’s most celebrated pastries.
Nuuksio National Park: Escape into Finnish Nature
[Credit: Visit Finland]
Less than 90 minutes from Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park offers visitors an introduction to Finland’s celebrated natural landscapes. Home to peaceful lakes, dense forests and well-marked hiking trails, the park provides opportunities to experience the country’s rich biodiversity and outdoor lifestyle. The Finnish Nature Centre Haltia further enriches the visit with interactive exhibitions, guided experiences and a restaurant showcasing locally inspired cuisine.
Lahti: Finland’s Emerging Cultural Hub
[Credit: Finnair]
Just over an hour by train from Helsinki, Lahti has established itself as one of Finland’s leading cultural destinations. The city is home to Malva – Museum of Visual Arts, housed within the historic Malski brewery complex, alongside the architecturally acclaimed Sibelius Hall, which overlooks the shores of Lake Vesijärvi. During summer, Lahti Harbour becomes a lively waterfront destination, with cafés, restaurants and outdoor terraces creating a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the city’s contemporary character.
Discover More with Finnair
From the medieval charm of Porvoo and the pristine landscapes of Nuuksio National Park to Lahti’s thriving cultural scene, these destinations showcase the diversity of experiences available just beyond Helsinki. With Finnair’s direct flights from Delhi to Helsinki and seamless onward rail and public transport connections, travellers can easily extend their journey and discover more of Finland beyond the capital.
21, Jul 2026
Turmeric Prices Climb in Erode as Supply Concerns Push Rates Higher
July 21: Turmeric prices have witnessed a significant increase in Erode, Tamil Nadu, with rates approaching ₹20,000 per quintal as concerns over drought conditions and limited supply continue to impact the market.
Traders and farmers said reduced availability of turmeric stocks, along with uncertainty over future production, has contributed to the recent rise in prices. The supply pressure has strengthened demand for available stocks, leading to higher market rates.
Erode, one of India’s major turmeric trading centres, has been experiencing increased activity as buyers look to secure supplies amid concerns over crop availability. The price movement has drawn attention from farmers and traders across the region.
Farmers are hopeful that the rise in prices will help improve their earnings after facing challenges related to weather conditions and cultivation costs. However, market participants are closely watching the upcoming crop outlook and weather patterns to assess future price trends.
Traders said that while higher prices may benefit growers, sustained increases could also affect buyers and industries that depend on turmeric as a key raw material.
The turmeric market is expected to remain closely linked to supply conditions, rainfall patterns, and demand trends in the coming weeks as stakeholders monitor developments.
