Category Archives: News

South Indian Bank Launches Digital Loan Against Mutual Funds

Kochi, September 09, 2025: South Indian Bank has launched a new digital loan facility, ‘Loan Against Mutual Funds,’ enabling the customers to avail loans against their mutual fund investments. The loan application process is fully digital and paperless, ensuring swift disbursal with minimal procedures. This innovative service has been introduced in partnership with M/s Ark Neo Financial Services, which operates the digital platform DhanLAP.

“This initiative empowers the Mutual Fund investors to meet their immediate financial needs without compromising on their investment goals,” said Mr. Sanchay Kumar Sinha, Chief General Manager & Head – Retail Assets of South Indian Bank. “By leveraging digital technology, we aim to provide quick, secure, and flexible financial solutions that align with the customers’ evolving needs.”

Customers can easily apply for the loan by registering and completing KYC verification using their PAN and Aadhaar. Once verified, they can access funds based on their Mutual Fund investments to avail an overdraft. This facility is available to individuals aged from 18 to 75 years, irrespective of whether they are existing bank customers or not.

For Equity Mutual Funds, up to 50% of the fund’s value can be availed as a loan, while for Debt Mutual Funds, up to 70% is permissible. This process enables all investors to access funds when needed, without disrupting their investments, which continue to earn returns.

Thrilling Quarter Finals Set the Tone at Subroto Cup Sub Junior Boys

Thrilling Quarter Finals Set the Tone at Subroto Cup Sub Junior Boys (U-15)

Bengaluru, September 9, 2025: The Sub Junior Boys (U-15) category of the 64th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament entered the knockout stage today, with thrilling quarter-final encounters showcasing the skills and rising talent of young footballers across India.

QF 1: Minerva Public School (CISCE) vs. SFS Higher Secondary School (Nagaland)

Minerva Public School (CISCE) stormed into the semifinals with a commanding 10-0 win over SFS Higher Secondary School (Nagaland). Lhungdem (4’, 30’), Rimoson (25’), Akash (25’, 27’), Laishram (19’), Hidam (14’, 33’, 35’), and Gurtejveer (38’) all found the back of the net in a one-sided contest that underlined Minerva’s dominance.

QF 2: Manikpara Viveknanda Vidyapith (West Bengal) vs. St. John High School (Jharkhand)

In one of the most gripping clashes of the day, St. John High School (Jharkhand) edged past Manikpara Viveknanda Vidyapith (West Bengal), 3-2 to book their semifinal berth. Charan (2’) and Abhijit (36’) scored for West Bengal, but Jharkhand bounced back strongly through goals from Suraj (7’), Asish (30’), and Ishant (47’), sealing a dramatic victory.

QF 3: Mothers Pride Public School (Himachal Pradesh) vs. Vidyachal International School (Bihar)

Vidyachal International School (Bihar) secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Mothers Pride Public School (Himachal Pradesh). Sukhpreet (23’) gave Himachal the lead, but Bihar’s Shubham turned the match on its head with a brilliant brace (25+2’, 63’) to guide his team into the semifinals.

QF 4: Anand Niketen School (Gujarat) vs. River Side Natural School (Madhya Pradesh)

In the last quarterfinal, River Side Natural School (Madhya Pradesh) secured a 2-0 victory over Anand Niketen School (Gujarat). Lokesh was the hero of the match, scoring twice, once in the 7th minute and again in stoppage time (50+4’) to seal Madhya Pradesh’s place in the semifinals.

The quarterfinals brought out the best of young football, with fast-paced play, smart teamwork, and flashes of individual brilliance lighting up the field. From sharp finishing to resilient defending, the matches showed how these budding players are quickly adapting to the demands of competitive football on the global stage.

CII’s Flagship Event on Energy Efficiency Summit to be Organized in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, 09- September 2025 – The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is all set to host India’s largest conference on energy efficiency, the 24th Energy Efficiency Summit, from 16–18 September 2025 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), Hyderabad. 

 A flagship event of CII- Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre (CII – GBC), Hyderabad, the Energy Efficiency Summit is a major gathering of industry professionals, leaders, government, academia, alongside major industry associations and leading organizations from India and abroad for advancing energy efficiency practices. 

This year’s Energy Efficiency Summit, with the theme “Accelerating the Transition to a Low Carbon Economy through Energy Efficiency,” will bring together 2,500+ delegates and feature 100+ distinguished speakers, covering discussions spanning 18+ industry sectors.

The Summit will also feature two sector-focused conferences- the 21st edition of CII Power Plant Summit and 19th edition of CII PaperTech- which will explore critical innovations, technologies, and strategies in the thermal power plant and pulp & paper sectors respectively to drive environmental and climate transition.

A key highlight will be the 26th CII National Award for Excellence in Energy Management, recognizing the achievements of over 200 companies and individuals that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to sustainable energy practices.

The event will also feature over 100+ exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions, including a dedicated pavilion for low carbon technology innovations. 

Krishival Foods Limited Welcomes GST Cut on Nuts, Dried Fruits and Ice Cream

 Hyderabad, 9th September, 2025: Krishival Foods Limited has welcomed the reduction in the GST rate for nuts, dried fruits and ice cream as confirmed at the 56th GST Council meeting. The GST on products such as Brazil nuts, almonds, pistachios, and other dried fruits has been reduced from 12% to 5%, and on ice cream has been reduced from 18% to 5% effective September 22, 2025.

Commenting on the development, Sujit Bangar, Chairman, Krishival Foods, said, “The GST rate reduction is a transformative step for the packaged food sector. At Krishival Foods, we see this as a catalyst to accelerate category growth and strengthen India’s position as a fast-emerging market for premium nuts, dried fruits, and ice creams. We are committed to harnessing this momentum by expanding availability, innovating with new offerings, and ensuring that more consumers across India can access world-class products at affordable prices.”

 With upcoming festive season, this policy change move is expected to drive a stronger consumption across categories, particularly in packaged foods, making high-quality nuts, dried fruits, and ice cream more accessible to a wider segment of consumers.

IAC-Life Donates 400 Raincoats to Mumbai Traffic Police for Ganpati Visarjan

Mumbai, Sept. 09, 2025: The Insurance Awareness Committee (IAC-Life), formed under the aegis of the Life Insurance Council that represents all life insurers in India, as part of its continued commitment to public welfare, donated 400 raincoats last week to the Mumbai Traffic Police for the Ganpati Visarjan Day. The gesture is in appreciation of the critical role played by traffic personnel in ensuring public safety during the festive season, often under challenging weather conditions.

IAC-Life handed over raincoats to the Mumbai Traffic Police at multiple locations in Mumbai on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025. The raincoats were handed over to Shri Anil Khumbare, Joint Commissioner of Police Traffic, at the Traffic Police Headquarters at Worli and to Shri Pramjit Singh Dahiya, Additional Commissioner of Police Traffic, at Bandra (West).

Girgaum Chowpatty, Dadar Chowpatty and Juhu Chowpatty are key Ganpati Visarjan locations and bearing that in mind, raincoats were also handed over to Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Nilesh Kamble at Girgaum Chowpatty, Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Kanhaiyalal Shinde at Dadar and Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Salim Tamboli at Juhu in the presence of senior representatives from the Mumbai Traffic Police.

This initiative aligns with IAC-Life’s ongoing national campaign, ‘Sabse Pehle Life Insurance’, which advocates prioritizing protection and preparedness; not just for individuals, but also for those who protect us daily.

Member, Insurance Awareness Committee (IAC-Life), said, “Our campaign ‘Sabse Pehle Life Insurance’ is rooted in the belief that protection comes first and that also means supporting the protectors of our cities. The Mumbai Traffic Police spend countless hours ensuring public safety, often in heavy rains and under demanding conditions. This initiative to donate raincoats is a small gesture to help frontline workers during Mumbai’s challenging monsoon. We chose Ganpati Visarjan for this distribution as it is a time when traffic police are on the ground managing large crowds in difficult weather. Through such initiatives, IAC-Life reaffirms its commitment to community engagement and to spreading the message of safety, security, and shared responsibility.”

Shri Anil Khumbare, Jt. Commissioner of Police Traffic speaking at the event said, “On behalf of all the Mumbai Traffic personnel, I would like to thank the Life Insurance Council for their generous contribution of raincoats. We truly appreciate this thoughtful gesture, especially as our teams continue to serve the city tirelessly through the challenging monsoon. We value your continued support and commitment to those who safeguard Mumbai, day and night, in all conditions.”

IAC-Life, representing all life insurers in India, to address the challenge of life insurance penetration, has launched the Sabse Pehle Life Insurance campaign with the aim of motivating every Indian, with renewed vigour, to make life insurance the foundation of their financial journey, turning rising awareness into meaningful action.

At its core, the campaign challenges the common habit of prioritising savings and investments while neglecting basic financial protection. It reaffirms that life insurance should be the starting point of any secure financial plan providing a strong foundation for long-term goals like children’s education, homeownership, and retirement.

Mahadivya Sangam 2025: Spiritual Confluence at Akshar Yoga Kendraa

Bengaluru, 8 September, 2025: Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru, hosted a historic and spiritually uplifting gathering — Mahadivya Sangam. The event was graced by Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji, the current pontiff of Sri Pejavara Adhokshaja Matha, Udupi, Karnataka. His presence filled the gathering with inspiration, divine blessings, and timeless wisdom. Yogis, seekers, and devotees came together for this rare confluence of yoga, spirituality, and service.

Two Landmark Announcements

The highlight of the event was the formal announcement of two historic initiatives by Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar also known as Grand Master Akshar and Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa. Both initiatives received the blessings of the revered Jagadguru, giving them divine sanctity and guidance.

1. Global Delegation to Asia
Akshar Yoga Kendraa has taken a bold step in international expansion. A delegation has already been sent to China, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and other North-East Asian countries to establish strong foundations of yoga education.

In September 2025, a second delegation of senior master teachers will also travel abroad. Their mission: to train and certify 10,000 professional yoga teachers in the next two years through Ministry of AYUSH-accredited Teacher Training Programs.

This effort strengthens Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s global presence and ensures authentic yoga knowledge reaches diverse communities, promoting health, peace, and cultural exchange.

2. 300-Acre Transformative Project in Odisha

The second announcement revealed a visionary 300-acre development project in Odisha, a land known for its deep spiritual and cultural heritage. This project reflects a holistic approach to service and education, rooted in dharmic values and compassion.

Key features include:

• A Gau Shala with 1,000 cows, dedicated to care, preservation, and continuation of India’s sacred traditions.
• A school for Classes 1–10, providing completely free education to underprivileged and deserving children.

This is more than just infrastructure — it represents Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s commitment to transform society through education, values, and service.

Words from Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji
On this occasion, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji expressed gratitude for the Jagadguru’s presence and blessings, saying:
“These initiatives represent our dual mission — to spread the light of the Himalayan yoga tradition across the world and to uplift communities within India through education, compassion, and service. With the blessings of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji, these projects will not only create opportunities but also inspire future generations to live with discipline, devotion, and selflessness.”

Blessings from Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji
Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji praised the vision of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji and highlighted the importance of uniting spiritual practice with service to humanity. He blessed the initiatives and encouraged seekers to actively contribute towards building a society rooted in dharma, compassion, and wisdom.

A Defining Moment for Akshar Yoga Kendraa

The announcements made during Maha Divya Sangam 2025 mark a historic step in Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s journey. Known for achieving 21 Guinness World Records in yoga, the institution is already recognized worldwide. This event further proved its twin commitment — advancing yoga as a universal discipline and strengthening communities through service.

With a global digital following of 2.5 million+ and over 8,000 media features worldwide, Akshar Yoga Kendraa continues to make yoga accessible, practical, and transformative.

The divine blessings of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji, combined with the visionary leadership of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji, made the Maha Divya Sangam a true spiritual milestone. It will be remembered as the beginning of a new era of yoga, seva, and global transformation.

Quantra Surfaces by Pokarna launches Next Gen Quartz Surface Collections

Quantra Surfaces by Pokarna launches Next-Gen Quartz Surface Collections – Aksara & Avyaan – World’s First-of-its-Kind

Hyderabad, September 06, 2025 – Quantra Surfaces by Pokarna Limited today unveiled its Next-Gen Quartz (engineered stone) Surface Collections– Aksara and Avyaan – at Design Democracy 2025, currently underway at Hitex, Hyderabad. No

Aksara – Powered by Chromia® technology from Breton S.p.A., Italy, and using a Japanese ultra-HD inkjet printer, the collection delivers stunning 600 DPI natural graphics on quartz surfaces. It also features UV-Armour protection, ensuring durability and reduced ageing over time.

Avyaan – Created using Kreos® technology of Breton S.p.A., Italy, this first-of-its-kind extrusion-based system produces slabs with unprecedented natural aesthetics, setting a new benchmark in engineered surfaces.

“This technology, patented and modified to suit consumer preferences, is unique in the world. Pokarna is the only company introducing such advanced surfaces to both domestic and international markets,” said Mr. Rahul Jain, Managing Director, Pokarna Limited.

Printed Quartz Products is a huge opportunity in India and Telangana. Quantra integrates Chromia and Kreos with six robotic systems to manufacture natural-looking full body surfaces in 7mm, 12mm, 20mm, and 30mm thicknesses – an industry-first globally. Printed Quartz offers a tougher, more durable option compared to traditional printed tiles or glossy Brazilian tiles.

Pokarna is committed to expanding its domestic footprint by making once-export-only products now available to Indian consumers.

Demand is strongest in metro markets such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and beyond.

To strengthen design-led offerings, the company will soon open its first Quantra Experience Centre in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, early next year, providing architects, interior designers, and builders the opportunity to explore the collections first-hand.

Design Inspiration

Drawing inspiration from India’s cultural roots, the collections are aptly named:

Aksara (Sanskrit: The Imperishable)
Avyaan (Sanskrit: The Flawless)

“India is undergoing a design transformation. Consumers now seek premium, high-performance materials that embody innovation and individuality. With Aksara and Avyaan, we are proud to offer products that blend timeless heritage with futuristic technologies,” added Mr. Rahul Jain.

FatakPay Extends ‘Bappa Hai Na’ Campaign Till 6th September with Rewards

FatakPay Extends ‘Bappa Hai Na’ Campaign Till 6th September, Offering ₹1 Lakh Insurance & Wealth-Building Rewards

Mumbai, September 6, 2025 – FatakPay has extended its festive campaign, “Bappa Hai Na”, till 6th September 2025, bringing together financial protection, festive rewards, and a pathway to long-term wealth creation this Ganesh Chaturthi. The campaign is open to all registered FatakPay users whose loans are disbursed during the campaign period.

As a special Ganpati gift to its customers, FatakPay is offering ₹1,00,000 Accidental Insurance Cover, ensuring every user is protected. In addition, 2,000 lucky winners will receive festive vouchers worth up to ₹500, while all eligible users also gain access to Digital Silver Rewards on Digital Gold investments, encouraging small, consistent steps towards financial independence.

Ganpati Bappa is celebrated as the remover of obstacles and a guide to prosperity. Inspired by this spirit, FatakPay’s Bappa Hai Na campaign reassures users that while life may bring challenges, their financial worries are taken care of ; with protection for today and wealth-building opportunities for tomorrow.

Bappa Hai Na is a festive extension of FatakPay’s ongoing 10-week movement, Kadam Badhaye Ja, launched on 15th August. With the objective of encouraging Indians to take consistent steps toward financial freedom through Digital Gold and Digital Insurance, the program rewards users who cumulatively invest at least ₹5,000 across 5 separate transactions in Digital Gold.

Together, Kadam Badhaye Ja and Bappa Hai Na make financial inclusion more human, offering safety nets, festive joy, and long-term security in one journey.

ISA Steel Conclave 2025 to Define India’s Path to Sustainable and Self Reliant Growth

New Delhi, Friday, 06 September 2025 – The Indian Steel Association (ISA) is set to host its flagship Steel Conclave 2025 on September 8th and 9th, 2025, at The Lalit, New Delhi. The event will bring together Union Ministers, senior government officials, and leading global and Indian industry leaders to deliberate on the future trajectory of India’s steel ecosystem.

This year’s theme, “Steel for Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Driving Sustainability and Growth,” will spotlight how India’s steel sector can accelerate self-reliance while advancing global competitiveness. The conclave will underscore collaborative solutions across raw material security, technology adoption, financing models, and green transition.

The programme will include leadership panels, keynote addresses, knowledge report launches, and the ISA Steel Awards 2025, recognising industry leadership in categories including Doyen of the Steel Industry and Gender Diversity.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Mr. Naveen Jindal, President, Indian Steel Association, said “This Conclave is not merely a platform for ideas but for action. Together, we are working towards a resilient, future-ready steel sector that strengthens India’s position globally while addressing sustainability imperatives.”

Day one will feature the inaugural session graced by senior dignitaries, including Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, and Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Steel, alongside top industry leaders.

Key sessions will cover:
● Leadership for Growth of the Steel Industry
● Leveraging AI in the Steel Value Chain
● Increasing Iron Ore Availability for Aatmanirbharta
● Financing Steel’s Transition to Green Growth
● Decarbonising the Future
● Price Risk Management
● Logistics & Infrastructure Efficiency
● Pathways for Green Steel Initiatives for SMEs

On the second day, Technology Showcasing Breakouts will run parallel to a collaborative session on Green Hydrogen Transition, jointly organised with the International Solar Alliance.

Running concurrently, the ISA Coking Coal Summit 2025 will address India’s evolving strategy on coking coal, with discussions on:

● The impact of geopolitical factors on price indexation
● The need for India-specific benchmarks
● Diversification of sourcing to support Aatmanirbharta

The summit will also feature B2B meetings to foster global partnerships and business opportunities.

Together, the Steel Conclave and Coking Coal Summit will convene policymakers, global experts, financial institutions, and end-user industries, creating a comprehensive platform for advancing India’s integrated growth agenda.

West Bengal and CISCE Record Commanding Victories on Day 2 of Subroto Cup

Bengaluru, September 6, 2025: The second day of the Sub Junior Boys (U-15) category at the 64th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament witnessed a mix of high-scoring encounters and hard-fought draws.

Minerva Public School, CISCE vs Tashi Namgyal Academy, IPSC

The day began with Minerva Public School (CISCE) producing a dominant display, defeating Tashi Namgyal Academy (IPSC) 16-0. Mamesh led the charge with seven goals (1’, 11’, 16’, 21’, 24’, 28’, 39’), supported by Mahesh (13’, 14’, 17’, 20’), Akash (31’, 50+1’), Bishwa Raj (19’) and Bickson (27’).

Shri Leelanand Secondary School, Jharkhand vs Indira Modern High School, Haryana

Shri Leelanand Secondary School (Jharkhand) and Indira Modern High School (Haryana) played out a 2-2 draw. Ashish scored a brace for Jharkhand (11’, 49’), while Sukhvinder (35’) and Aditya (45’) were on target for Haryana.

River Side Natural School, Madhya Pradesh vs Mothers Pride Public School, Himachal Pradesh

River Side Natural School (Madhya Pradesh) went down 1-2 against Mothers Pride Public School (Himachal Pradesh). Lokesh scored for MP in the 32nd minute, but Sukhpreet’s goals (1’, 25+1’) ensured Himachal’s victory.

NV Pakur-1, NVS vs Manikpara Vivekananda Vidyapith, West Bengal

The afternoon clash turned into a one-sided affair as West Bengal’s Manikpara Vivekananda Vidyapith thrashed JNV Pakur-1 (NVS) 14-0. Ramchandra (39’), Sanjib Mandi (6’, 17’, 22’), Abhijit Mandi (37’), Soumen Chalak (20’), Sanu Mahata (5’), Budhu Murmu (2’, 12’), Fagun Murmu (11’, 27’, 35’, 50’), and Mahadev Murmu (31’) all found the net in a commanding performance. NVS remained goalless despite their efforts.

The energy and commitment displayed by the boys today reflect the growing strength of grassroots football in India, with more action and talent to watch out for in the coming days of the tournament.