7, Jul 2025
Motilal Oswal Foundation Launches INR 100 Cr Rural Youth Drive in Rajasthan
Motilal Oswal Foundation Rolls Out ₹100 Cr Rural Transformation Drive to Empower 1 Lakh Young Lives in Rajasthan
July 7, 2025: In a powerful reaffirmation of purpose-led philanthropy, the Motilal Oswal Foundation unveiled a transformative education and livelihood initiative in Balotra, the home district of its Founder, Shri Motilal Oswal. The launch event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, and the Hon’ble Governor of Sikkim, Shri Om Prakash Mathur, as the Foundation announced its plan to invest nearly ₹100 crore over the next five years to create sustainable change across the region.
Rooted in the philosophy of Learn, Earn & Return, the Foundation’s work is grounded in legacy and vision. Founded by Shri Motilal Oswal and Shri Raamdeo Agrawal, the Motilal Oswal Foundation reflects their belief that true wealth is in empowering others. The two co-founders have committed 10% of their personal equity in Motilal Oswal Financial Services to create a philanthropic fund of over ₹4,000 crore.
For over 15 years, the Foundation has quietly supported India’s core developmental priorities in education, healthcare, agriculture, and rural upliftment. With over ₹800 crore already committed to various developmental projects nationwide, the Foundation continues to deepen its impact.
The Balotra initiative marks a crucial moment in this journey. Over five years, the program will impact the lives of more than 1 lakh children, 5,000 youth, and 25,000 farmers across Balotra and nearby areas. These efforts are also expected to create nearly 400 local jobs, providing dignity and opportunities for the community to shape its future.
At the heart of this transformation lies the newly announced Ansidevi Gopilal Oswal Kaushal Evam Krushi Vikas Sansthan—a state-of-the-art institution spread across 87 beeghas. This centre will become a hub for vocational skilling, agri-tech training, and future-ready digital education, placing Balotra on the national map as a rural innovation and empowerment model.
To deliver this vision, the Foundation has partnered with four of India’s most respected civil society organisations, each with a proven track record of impact at scale: Rocket Learning, Educate Girls, Muskaan Dreams, Lighthouse Communities Foundation.
Speaking at the event, Shri Motilal Oswal, Chairman, Motilal Oswal Foundation shared, “We have always believed in Learn, Earn & Return. Acquire knowledge, utilise it to build wealth, and then use that wealth to create a lasting impact. Balotra and Rajasthan gave me my beginnings, and it has been a moment of great fulfilment to return with something tangible and lasting.”
Shri Raamdeo Agrawal added, “Philanthropy is the purest form of investment—in people, in futures, in India.”
This announcement adds to the Foundation’s legacy of high-impact philanthropy, which includes landmark contributions such as ₹130 crore to IIT Bombay, ₹115 crore to Rajasthan Vidyarthi Griha, and ₹100 crore to the Indian School of Business, among many others.
While the Foundation has already accomplished significant milestones, including educating over 1 lakh students, supporting 50,000 farmers, and enabling 10,000 youth and people with disabilities, its journey is far from over. Over the next decade, the Motilal Oswal Foundation aims to play a vital role in contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat.
Empowering India, One Life at a Time—the Foundation’s motto is a lived commitment. And with the Balotra initiative, that promise is taking deeper root in the soil that once gave it life.
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- By Neel Achary
7, Jul 2025
Divine Solitaires and Ranka Jewellers Honour Doctors with a Touching Tribute Across Pune
Speaking about the initiative, the Founder and MD of Divine Solitaires, Mr. Jignesh Mehta, said, “At the heart of everything we do is the belief that emotions deserve to be celebrated. Doctors’ Day gave us a meaningful reason to come together with our retail partner Ranka Jewellers and celebrate the unsung heroes in our lives. The response reaffirmed our belief that even small gestures can leave a lasting impact.”
7, Jul 2025
Apparel Group Strengthens South India Presence with Latest Victoria’s Secret Beauty Store in Chennai
7th July 2025, Chennai, India: Apparel Group, a global retail and fashion conglomerate, is furthering Victoria’s Secret impressive growth in India with the opening of its latest store at Express Avenue Mall in Chennai. This significant expansion establishes the brand’s presence in its seventh Indian city and brings its total store count to 13 nationwide. This strategic move into South India reinforces Victoria’s Secret commitment to its rapid growth trajectory and its mission to deliver globally recognized beauty experiences to a wider local audience.
Spanning 1102 sq. ft., the store is strategically located in one of Chennai’s premier retail destinations and features Victoria’s Secret signature beauty and fragrance collections. From favorites like Bombshell, Tease, Very Sexy, and Bare Eau de Parfum, to bestselling body mists, lotions, and beauty accessories, the store has been thoughtfully curated to be a one-stop destination for beauty lovers.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tushar Ved, President of Apparel Group India, shared, “The launch of our first Victoria’s Secret beauty store in Chennai represents a key strategic expansion for us in South India. Express Avenue, being one of the region’s most prominent retail hubs, offers the ideal platform to bring the brand’s prestige beauty portfolio to a discerning customer base. Our goal is to enhance accessibility to globally renowned offerings while maintaining the elevated brand experience Victoria’s Secret is known for.”
Mr. Abhishek Bajpai, CEO of Apparel Group India, added, “Chennai’s dynamic and rapidly evolving retail landscape and fast-evolving retail culture present a strategic growth opportunity for us. With this launch, we continue our focused effort to scale high-performing global brands across India. Victoria’s Secret not only strengthens our portfolio but also aligns with our goal of delivering elevated, experience-led retail formats that resonate with today’s discerning Indian consumer.”
The new store will exclusively feature prestige beauty products from Victoria’s Secret, reinforcing the brand’s position as a global leader in the beauty and personal care segment. With its signature iconic product lines and personalized service, Victoria’s Secret continues to create a space where customers feel confident, celebrated, and inspired.
7, Jul 2025
Shri C.R. Patil and Varun Dhawan Grace the Grand Launch of Le Méridien Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, July 7: The grand debut of Le Méridien Ahmedabad was marked by a distinguished gathering, led by Shri C.R. Patil, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, President of BJP Gujarat, and Minister of Jal Shakti, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan added a dash of glamour to the evening, engaging warmly with guests and touring the hotel’s thoughtfully designed spaces.
Blending modern European hospitality with Ahmedabad’s rich textile heritage and globally influenced cuisine, Le Méridien Ahmedabad signals a new era of cosmopolitan luxury in Gujarat.
The launch was an elegant, intimate affair — thoughtfully curated and deeply aligned with the brand’s creative and cultured identity, setting the tone for Ahmedabad’s rise as a destination of global repute.
7, Jul 2025
Discover Signature Stays at ITC Royal Bengal
Immerse yourself in a new level of indulgence with Signature Stays at ITC Royal Bengal, an iconic address of grandeur and timeless elegance in Kolkata. With an exclusive offer crafted for the discerning traveller, guests can now enjoy exclusive rates on 1 & 2 BHK serviced apartments.
Located in the heart of the city, the magnificent LEED Platinum-certified ITC Royal Bengal is an ode to the region’s heritage. As a paragon of refinement and luxury, it features 456 rooms and suites, including 82 serviced apartments, along with 7 dining destinations offering a wide and eclectic selection of local and global gourmet cuisines.
Guests availing the Signature Stays offer will enjoy 15% savings on flexible rates, including complimentary breakfast and access to the Signature Lounge with curated luxury hours from 6 to 8 PM. This bespoke offer unlocks an immersive stay experience in spacious apartments, combining the comfort of home with the luxury of a five-star retreat.
Whether you’re in the city for business or leisure, you will enjoy an One-of-a-Kind experience that is truly a treat for the senses unlike any other.
This offer is valid until 30th September, 2025. So, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the warm hospitality and tranquillity of ITC Royal Bengal. Book your experience directly on the ITC Hotels website or download the ITC Hotels app for a seamless and personalized booking experience.
7, Jul 2025
‘The Last Letter’ : British Lingua Students Stage Witty and Moving Drama Reflecting Social Realities
Patna, 7 July 2025: British Lingua, a premier institute in communicative English, witnessed a lively confluence of language, creativity, and performance as its students staged a thought-provoking and humorous play titled “The Last Letter.” The original script, penned by Mr Avinash Pandey—a student of the institute—beautifully captured the pulse of grassroots social work through wit, realism, and emotional nuance.
Set within the buzzing confines of an NGO office, the drama offered a light-hearted yet insightful portrayal of young professionals navigating their daily duties. In one memorable scene from Part 2A: Inside the NGO Office, the characters Sugandha, Ashish, and Sameer exchange quick-witted banter over a list of handwritten names.
“I’m doing it now,” Ashish says while typing. “But Sameer gave me some extra names to check. His handwriting looks like it was written during an earthquake!”
To this, Sameer retorts with a grin, “Maybe I want you to become a handwriting expert!”
The laughter peaked when Ashish admitted to reading “Rinku Devi” as “Rinku Devil,” sparking a round of chuckles and the line, “Maybe she was very naughty as a kid!”
The audience, comprising students, trainers, and guests, applauded the cast’s confident performances and natural dialogue delivery. The play, while humorous, subtly reflected deeper truths about human error, social engagement, and camaraderie in workplaces.
Dr Birbal Jha, noted author and Managing Director of British Lingua, lauded the production and its impact:
“A drama mirrors our society in a fictional way that creates a sense of romanticism while entertaining the soul. It helps us laugh at ourselves, reflect on our realities, and imagine a better world.”, said Dr Birbal Jha on the occasion.
He further commended the student playwright and performers, stating, “Drama, when blended with education, becomes a powerful tool for personality development and linguistic fluency. I congratulate Avinash Pandey and the entire team for their commendable effort.”
“The Last Letter” stands as a testament to British Lingua’s commitment to nurturing not just fluent speakers, but also expressive individuals with social insight and artistic flair.
5, Jul 2025
TECNO POVA 7 Series Sets a New Benchmark With Design Evolution and Power-Packed Features
India, July 5, 2025: In a market flooded with predictable upgrades and overpromised specs, TECNO takes a bold leap forward with the launch of its latest powerhouse duo — the POVA 7 Series on Flipkart. Known for delivering value-packed innovation focused on real user needs, TECNO brings POVA 7 and POVA 7 Pro to the mid-premium segment, combining serious performance, intuitive AI, and smart connectivity, all wrapped in a design built for India’s new-age learners, digital hustlers, and creators. Staying true to its #BetterFasterStronger promise, the series continues TECNO’s tradition of constant innovation under the POVA legacy.
Commenting on the launch, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO India said, “At TECNO, we believe ground-breaking technology shouldn’t be a privilege—it should be a tool for everyone. Especially for India’s young dreamers, doers and disruptors. That’s why POVA 7 is more than just a smartphone: it’s bold design, unstoppable connectivity, and AI that understands you—right down to your language. This device isn’t just built to impress—it’s built to empower.”
DESIGN: Inspired by Change, Built to Stand Out
Inspired by the delta symbol (Δ) — the universal sign for change, this series embraces evolution and progress. The triangular geometry isn’t just an aesthetic choice, it’s a tribute to users who are constantly evolving and pushing forward.
Visually striking, both smartphones feature TECNO’s segment-first Multi-Functional Delta Light Interface, a backlit design element with 104 Mini LED lights, that reacts to music, notifications, volume, and charging. It’s more than just visual flair; it’s a personality you can see, even from far away.
DISPLAY: Visual Brilliance for Every Experience
POVA 7 Pro features a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with an ultra-smooth 144Hz refresh rate, delivering rich colors and seamless motion which is ideal for gaming, streaming, and content creation, making it the Best Display Experience in the segment. The POVA 7 offers the same screen size and refresh rate on a crisp FHD+ LTPS IPS display, ensuring immersive visuals for everyday use.
BATTERY & CHARGING: Power That Keeps Pace
Both smartphones pack a massive 6000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, designed for power users. The POVA 7 Pro raises the bar with 30W wireless charging, a first-in-segment feature, allowing users to cut the cord without sacrificing speed.
ACCESSIBLE AI & CONNECTIVITY: Everyday Intelligence, Everywhere
A standout across both smartphones is TECNO’s built-in AI assistant, Ella, now more intelligent and attuned to local needs with support for multiple Indian languages. From composing messages to translating content, Ella brings practical, everyday assistance to users across the country. Complementing this is the TECNO Intelligent Signal Hub, which strengthens connectivity with advanced features like 4×4 MIMO, VoWiFi Dual Pass, and a unique No Network Communication capability that allows device to device calling even without mobile signal, a game changer in areas with patchy or no coverage.
CAMERA: Creativity in Every Frame
Beyond stunning visuals, the POVA 7 Series delivers camera innovation designed for content-first lifestyles, with both smartphones supporting 4K video recording. The POVA 7 Pro is equipped with a 64MP Sony IMX682 main sensor and an 8MP secondary lens, featuring vlog modes and dual video functionality, perfect for creators who demand flexibility. Meanwhile, the POVA 7 offers a strong 50MP
AI camera, tuned for consistent results across lighting conditions and equipped with essential creative modes for everyday storytelling.
FIND YOUR FIT: Choose Your Style at an Amazing Price Point
While both phones share a strong core, the POVA 7 Pro brings additional premium features like an AMOLED display, wireless charging, and dual cameras for those who want more. The POVA 7 focuses on great everyday performance with a bold design and comes in three striking colors: Magic Silver, Oasis Green, and Geek Black.
For those seeking additional features, the POVA 7 Pro is available in three exquisite colors: Dynamic Grey, Neon Cyan, and Geek Black.
With technology this powerful in your hands, the POVA 7 Series is more than just a phone — it’s your next move, next idea, next win. Ready when you are. Sale starts 10th July on Flipkart.
5, Jul 2025
Bank of Baroda Cuts Home Loan Rates to 7.45%, Waives Processing Fees
Chandigarh, July 05, 2025: Bank of Baroda, one of India’s leading public sector banks, has announced a further reduction in its home loan interest rates, lowering it to 7.45%* p.a., with immediate effect and also offering Nil processing fee. This step is in line with the Bank’s commitment to making home loans more affordable for its home loan borrowers and driving credit growth.
This latest rate cut follows an earlier reduction by the Bank in its home loan interest rates from 8.00% p.a. to 7.50% p.a. in June, in response to the policy rate easing by the Reserve Bank of India.
Commenting on the same, Shri Sanjay Mudaliar, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “We continue to work towards our commitment of making home ownership more accessible. This latest reduction in our home loan interest rates is aimed at supporting the aspirations of citizens and stimulating credit growth. Bank of Baroda continues to align its lending strategy with the evolving monetary policy environment with the intent to pass on rate benefits to customers, while contributing to the broader economic objectives of boosting loan demand.”
Bank of Baroda’s competitive home loan offerings are complemented by a seamless digital application process. Applicants can apply for a home loan by visiting the Bank’s website or the nearest Bank of Baroda branch.
5, Jul 2025
Campus Activewear Expands To Sri Lanka Through Strategic Partnership With Signature, Under Hameedia Group
New Delhi, 05 July, 2025: Campus Activewear, one of India’s leading Sports and Athleisure footwear brands, has officially announced its foray into the Sri Lankan market. As part of this strategic expansion, Campus has partnered with Signature, the island nation’s most admired menswear brand under the esteemed Hameedia Group – an established and leading fashion and lifestyle retailer. The launch event was held today at the H-Sports Store in Racecourse, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Through this collaboration, Campus’ products will now be available in Signature showrooms, H-Sports outlets, and the Signature website – offering Sri Lankan consumers greater access to globally inspired, fashion-forward footwear.
This reinforces Campus Activewear’s ambition to tap into high-potential global markets. Backed by a strong omnichannel strategy across both distribution and D2C channels, the brand is now bringing its extensive product portfolio to Sri Lanka – a market increasingly drawn to stylish, value-driven lifestyle products.
Speaking on the development, Mr. Nikhil Aggarwal, CEO & Whole Time Director of Campus Activewear Ltd, said, “We are proud to enter the Sri Lankan market through a strategic partnership with Signature under the Hameedia Group. This expansion aligns with our long-term strategy of entering scalable, high-potential markets that resonate with our brand philosophy and product strengths. Sri Lanka offers a promising landscape with its rising consumer appetite for accessible, fashion-forward lifestyle products. By leveraging Signature’s strong brand presence and our own proven-product capabilities, we aim to mirror the success that we have seen in India.”
Amjad Hameed, Director of Signature, said, “At Signature, we are always on the lookout for brands that align with our promise of offering style, comfort, and value to our customers. Campus is a brand that resonates strongly with today’s fashion-conscious youth, and we are proud to bring this iconic name to Sri Lanka. We are confident this partnership will redefine the footwear retail space in Sri Lanka, just as Signature has done with men’s fashion”.
Campus will roll out its range across lifestyle, running, and walking, supported by local marketing, retail activations, and omnichannel access via Signature and H-sports, retail and digital network. With this launch, Campus has taken a firm step toward becoming a leading player in the South Asian Sports and Athleisure landscape.
5, Jul 2025
Shri Palash Srivastava assumes Additional Charge as Managing Director, IIFCL
Shri Palash Srivastava, Deputy Managing Director, IIFCL, has assumed additional charge as Managing Director of India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL).This charge has been assigned by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, vide order dated 2nd July 2025.
Leadership at IIFCL
As DMD IIFCL, Shri Palash Srivastava has played a pivotal role in deepening IIFCL’s strategic engagements across infrastructure financing, project development, and policy advisory. His leadership has been instrumental in expanding the institution’s footprint through innovative financing mechanisms, international collaborations, and strengthened regulatory dialogue. He has actively represented IIFCL at high-level policy forums, capacity-building initiatives, and sustainability-focused platforms, reinforcing the organisation’s role as a key enabler of inclusive and climate- resilient infrastructure. His efforts have significantly contributed to enhancing institutional visibility, building strategic partnerships, and aligning infrastructure finance with national development priorities.
Career Highlights
With nearly three decades of professional experience, Shri Srivastava has contributed extensively to the infrastructure ecosystem across sectors such as transport, urban infrastructure, water, logistics, agri-warehousing, and renewable energy. He has also supported key policy forums including the National PPP Capacity Building Programme, the Kelkar Committee, and the 12th Plan Working Group on Urban Financing. He has held leadership positions at institutions such as IDFC Group, CRISIL, IL&FS, Feedback Ventures, and the Aditya Birla Group
Academic Qualifications
An alumnus of MNIT Jaipur, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and an MBA from RA Podar Institute of Management, Mumbai.
