India News & Trends
CNN-News18 introduces Shawan Sens Raw Report
Shawan Sen, a professional journalist, is the anchor of CNN-News18's new program, Raw Report. Starting on August 3, the program will air on television, connected TV (CTV), and YouTube on weekdays at 12 and 10 p.m. By providing exclusive stories, ground reporting, and context surrounding the day's most significant events, Raw Report seeks to go beyond headlines by fusing live reporting with in-depth analysis. Using the network's reach, each edition will aim to provide viewers with a new, unique perspective on the most important news of the day.The article that sets the agenda for the day will be the main topic of the 12 p.m. edition. The show will explain developments using on-the-ground reporting, in-depth images, and crisp, data-driven graphics rather than just broadcasting breaking news, assisting viewers in comprehending the wider picture as events take place.A thorough summary of the day's most important domestic and international stories will be provided in the 10 p.m. edition. It will give viewers a 360-degree view of the events influencing the news cycle, based on in-depth reporting and perceptive analysis. Every story that Raw Report covers will include an exclusive news break in addition to a major newsmaker of the day. For the second time, Shawan Sen has joined CNN-News18 as Executive Editor – Enterprise & Special Investigations. From September 2012 to July 2016, he covered crime, defence, and intelligence services as a Senior Correspondent for CNN-IBN. He has also collaborated with Times Network, Republic TV, The Times of India, and The Indian Express over the years.Rahul Shivshankar, Editorial Affairs Director, CNN-News18, announced the launch, saying, "As the nation's top English news channel, we have to keep evolving with it. News consumption is changing rapidly." At CNN-News18, we're always experimenting with formats to increase the engagement of our reporting without sacrificing authenticity. One such step is the Raw Report. Original reporting, enterprising journalism, and insightful analysis are its cornerstones. Shawan's return demonstrates our dedication to bolstering our editorial staff with some of the best journalists in the industry. He is a great asset to our newsroom because of his background as a field reporter and his knack for breaking news."Shawan Sen, Executive Editor-Enterprise & Special Investigations at CNN-News18, offered his thoughts on the new program: "Returning to CNN-News18 is special because it's a newsroom that has always believed in strong reporting." Being where the news is, getting to the facts first, and providing viewers with verified, first-hand information are the cornerstones of the journalism I've practiced throughout my career. The goal is to cut through the clutter and provide a clear explanation of each story's essential elements. We've done our job if viewers leave believing what we report and comprehending the narrative more fully."
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:22 PM
Your heritage lends you credibility. You get the future through relevance: From Anirban Banerjee to classic brands
Nostalgia is not a viable strategy for legacy brands. Anirban Banerjee, CEO of Eveready Industries India Ltd., stated during his keynote speech at Adgully's CMOs' Charcha-Kolkata Chapter 2026, which is presently taking place in Kolkata, that they must always change in order to be significant for future generations of consumers. Speaking to a group of marketers, brand executives, and business experts, Banerjee discussed Eveready's own transformation process and made the case that, although longevity is an accomplishment, a brand's relevance ultimately decides its survival."We celebrate longevity when we have a brand. However, longevity on its own is only a success if the brand continues to be relevant to every new generation and shifting market. "Your longevity is remembered and celebrated if you continue to provide what customers need at that point in time," he emphasized. Banerjee began his lecture by citing well-known businesses to illustrate his claim that a brand's past does not ensure its future. Because they reimagined themselves, many legendary brands have endured. Others vanished while leaving behind a great legacy. Survival is never assured, even for the largest brands. Because of this, the issue of relevancy keeps coming up, he explained.Banerjee cited companies like Lego, Asian Paints, and Amul as examples of how they have effectively adjusted to shifting consumer demands through innovation, diversification, and ongoing reinvention while maintaining their essential character.Speaking about Eveready, one of the most well-known and established consumer brands in India with strong ties to West Bengal, Banerjee stated that the company's goal is to appeal to younger consumers in addition to maintaining its legacy. "Maintaining the heritage is not the problem. Making the heritage relevant for young people and Gen Z consumers is a challenge. He admitted that as brands become more iconic, transition gets harder. "Change feels harder the more iconic a brand gets. It seems dangerous. However, the risk of staying the same is considerably greater.Banerjee discussed how Eveready has been updating its brand to better suit the evolving needs of its customers. A modern design inspired by an infinity loop, which represents unending energy and limitless potential, replaces the long-standing, well-known "Give Me Red" positioning in the revised identity. Banerjee claims that the transformation is about communicating the brand's heritage in a way that appeals to modern consumers rather than giving it up. "Our identity now represents empowerment and limitless possibilities instead of just energy."
Published 28 Jul 2026 05:41 PM
From Stage to Screen and Beyond: Kubbra Saits Numerous Reimaginings
Actor and author Kubbra Sait is once again showing her ability to reinvent herself through her latest project, Humanaige. Known for taking on bold and meaningful roles, Kubbra continues to explore new ways of expressing herself. The project highlights her journey from theatre and films to fresh creative spaces, proving that she is much more than just an actress.Over the years, Kubbra has built a career by choosing characters that leave a lasting impact. From her breakthrough performance in Sacred Games to international projects and public speaking, she has never been afraid to step outside her comfort zone. Humanaige reflects this same spirit, presenting different sides of her personality while celebrating growth, confidence, and creativity. Speaking about her journey, Kubbra has often shared that she believes in constant learning and embracing change. Instead of following a fixed path, she prefers taking on projects that challenge her and help her grow. This mindset has made her one of the most versatile performers in the entertainment industry today.With Humanaige, Kubbra Sait continues to inspire audiences by showing that success comes from being open to change and trying new things. Whether on stage, on screen, or through creative collaborations, she keeps redefining herself and encouraging others to embrace their own unique journeys.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:38 PM
In Q1 of FY27, PVR INOX reports a profit of ₹70.5 crore.
India's largest multiplex chain, PVR INOX, has reported a strong financial turnaround in the first quarter of FY27 by posting an adjusted net profit of ₹70.5 crore, compared to a loss of ₹33.5 crore in the same quarter last year. The impressive recovery was driven by strong box office collections, higher footfalls across cinemas, and increased spending by moviegoers on food and beverages. The company's total revenue rose nearly 12% year-on-year to ₹1,642.3 crore, reflecting growing consumer interest in the theatrical movie experience despite competition from streaming platforms. The company also recorded a significant improvement in its operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA increased by around 90% year-on-year, while operating margins improved from 8.2% to 14%. This growth was supported by successful film releases across Hindi and regional languages, improved ticket sales, premium cinema formats, and better cost management. The strong financial results indicate that PVR INOX has successfully strengthened its business after the merger of PVR and INOX and is benefiting from better operational efficiency. Another major achievement for the company is that it has become net cash positive, reporting ₹80.7 crore in net cash as of June 30, 2026. This marks a remarkable improvement from the large debt position the company carried at the time of the PVR–INOX merger. A stronger balance sheet gives the company greater financial flexibility to invest in expansion, improve cinema infrastructure, and introduce more premium movie experiences for customers. Looking ahead, PVR INOX plans to continue its growth by opening 90 to 100 new screens during FY27, focusing mainly on asset-light and capital-efficient expansion. The company expects a strong lineup of upcoming Bollywood, Hollywood, and regional films to attract more audiences in the coming quarters. Industry experts believe that if content quality remains strong and consumer demand continues, PVR INOX is well-positioned to maintain its profitability and strengthen its leadership in India's multiplex cinema industry.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:10 PM
BSP leader Randhir Beniwal, Akash Anands father-in-law, is expelled by Mayawati
New Delhi: On Sunday, Mayawati, the president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), dismissed national coordinator Randhir Singh Beniwal, father-in-law of her nephew Akash Anand, and former Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Siddharth from the party due to his lack of discipline and anti-party behaviour.The action follows the denial of rumours regarding Anand's involvement in the distribution of tickets for the Uttar Pradesh elections in 2027. Mayawati had stated on July 31 that she was personally in charge of the party's election preparations, presiding over review sessions in Lucknow, and selecting candidates. She dismissed as "completely baseless" claims that Akash Anand was choosing party nominees, stating that interviews had already taken place and that over two dozen people had been selected. Mayawati claimed on Sunday that rumours about Siddharth's return to Uttar Pradesh were a part of a "deliberate conspiracy" to confuse party members and sabotage 2027 election preparations. She declared that Siddharth had been banished immediately and would never be allowed to return.Randhir Singh Beniwal, the BSP national coordinator, was also dismissed by her due to persistent transgressions of party rules. According to party sources, Beniwal neglected to concentrate on Punjab, which is headed for elections.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:43 PM
Bihar bypoll Prashant Kishor is leading according to early indicators as the Bankipur byelection counting gets underway.
In the first rounds of vote counting, newcomer Prashant Kishor overtook adversary Neeraj Kumar of the BJP. He has won five straight rounds as of 11.30 a.m.Voting for the Bankipur Assembly bypoll in Bihar started at 8 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, in Patna. Everyone was watching to see if Jan Suraaj Party rookie Prashant Kishor would unseat the BJP.Nitin Nabin, the national president of the BJP, resigned after being elected to the Rajya Sabha in April, necessitating a by-election."The counting of votes for the Bankipur by-election began amid tight security arrangements," an official stated. Voter turnout in the July 30 bypoll was 34.30%, a decrease of about 7% from the 41.45% registered in the last Assembly elections. This time, there are 26 contenders in the race. In November 2025, Mr. Nabin defeated his closest opponent, Rekha Gupta of the RJD, by more than 50,000 votes to win the Assembly seat for the fifth time in a row. Mr. Gupta was once more nominated by the RJD for the by-election. The BJP, which has never lost the Assembly segment since 1995 when it was known as Patna West, has fielded low-key youth wing leader Neeraj Kumar Sinha, while Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who founded the Jan Suraaj Party a few years ago, is running in his maiden election.As early indications of the Bankipur Assembly by-election indicated founder Prashant Kishor leading, joyful Jan Suraaj Party members gathered at the party's camp headquarters. While closely monitoring the current vote count, followers of the former poll strategist-turned-politician raised slogans in favour of him and praised his impressive start in his first election.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:30 PM
Kiran Thadimarri is named CFO by IndiGo parent InterGlobe Aviation, while Gaurav Negi is appointed advisor.
InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, has announced an important leadership change in its finance team. The company's Board of Directors has appointed Kiran Thadimarri as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective July 28, 2026. Before this promotion, Thadimarri served as the Deputy CFO and has been closely involved in the company's financial planning and business operations. At the same time, Gaurav Negi, who has been leading the finance function as CFO since 2022, will move into a new position as Advisor to the Managing Director. The company said this transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity in financial leadership while allowing both executives to contribute in roles that best support IndiGo's long-term growth. The appointment comes at a significant time for IndiGo, India's largest airline, as it continues to expand its domestic and international network while also dealing with rising operating costs and increasing competition in the aviation sector. Kiran Thadimarri brings valuable experience to the role, having worked with leading organizations such as Udaan and General Electric before joining IndiGo. His understanding of the company's financial operations and strategic priorities is expected to help strengthen its financial management during a period of rapid growth. Meanwhile, Gaurav Negi will continue to play an important role by advising the Managing Director, ensuring that his knowledge and experience remain available to the company during this transition. Industry experts see this leadership change as a smooth internal succession rather than a major restructuring. Promoting an experienced executive from within the organization reflects IndiGo's focus on stability and long-term planning. The airline has recently faced pressure from higher fuel prices and reported another quarterly loss, making strong financial leadership especially important. With Kiran Thadimarri taking charge as CFO and Gaurav Negi continuing in an advisory capacity, the company aims to maintain confidence among investors, employees, and stakeholders while continuing its expansion plans and strengthening its position in India's fast-growing aviation market.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:12 PM
In a significant bureaucratic reorganisation, IRS Officer Satya Pal Kumar was appointed FIU Director.
In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, Satya Pal Kumar, an officer from the Central Information and Research Service (CIRS), has been appointed as the new Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The appointment is part of the government’s latest administrative changes aimed at strengthening key financial and regulatory departments. Satya Pal Kumar brings experience in handling important government responsibilities and is expected to play a crucial role in improving FIU’s operations. The Financial Intelligence Unit works under the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for monitoring financial transactions, detecting money laundering activities, and helping agencies track illegal financial networks. His appointment comes at a time when financial security and transparency have become major priorities for the government. The FIU plays an important role in analysing suspicious transactions and coordinating with enforcement agencies to prevent financial crimes. The bureaucratic reshuffle includes changes across several departments, with new officers being given responsibilities to improve efficiency and governance. Kumar’s new role as FIU Director is expected to further strengthen India’s efforts in combating financial crimes and maintaining a secure financial system.
Published 27 Jul 2026 10:02 PM
The second-largest worldwide opening weekend for a new Spider-Man movie
Spider-Man: Brand New Day exceeded its expected $225 million production budget with $927 million (£687 million) in ticket sales worldwide, making it the second-biggest opening weekend ever. The superhero film, which stars real-life husband and wife Tom Holland and Zendaya, trails behind Avengers: Endgame, which made over $1.2 billion on its first weekend of release in 2019. With $335 million in box office receipts, Brand New Day also set a second-best North American record.After a spate of underperforming Marvel films in recent years, the film's good performance gives Marvel Studios a much-needed lift ahead of the much awaited release of Avengers: Doomsday in December. A few years after Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021, Brand New Day, which debuted in theatres this week, follows Peter Parker as he fights crime in a society that has forgotten he is the masked superhero. Reviews for the most recent installment of the wildly successful franchise were overwhelmingly positive, with several praising Holland's performance as Spider-Man to date. According to distributor Sony Pictures, Brand New Day earned $572 million from over 73,000 screens outside of the US, including $121 million from China. Over the weekend, $49 million worth of tickets were sold in the UK. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, described the debut of Brand New Day as "truly phenomenal" and expressed gratitude to viewers for "coming out and experiencing our film the way it was meant to be seen."Before Doomsday, the eagerly anticipated conclusion of several superhero story arcs following Avengers: Endgame, the movie represents Marvel's final big-screen production. Since Endgame, Marvel films have not been able to draw the same wide crowds as they did during their heyday. Although they were among the studio's lowest-grossing films, big-budget productions like The Marvels and The Thunderbolts recovered their production expenses. No Way Home has sold about $2 billion in tickets, making Spider-Man one of Marvel's most profitable franchises. Since the Covid-19 outbreak, moviegoing has decreased, hastening the transition to home-streaming services like Netflix. However, the big screen has made a sort of comeback this year, with box office receipts in North America expected to surpass $10 billion for the first time since 2019. Blockbuster hits like Toy Story 5, Michael, and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie—all of which have generated over $1 billion—helped with that. Brand New Day, which opens in July, and Christopher Nolan's adaptation of the great Greek poem, The Odyssey, are also expected to surpass $1 billion.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:29 PM
Trailer for Batwara 1947 Sunny Deol battles Pakistan once more, this time for the religion of Maa.
The trailer of Batwara 1947 has created a strong buzz among movie lovers and marks Sunny Deol’s return in another powerful role set against the backdrop of India’s Partition. While many viewers are comparing the film to Gadar, the trailer makes it clear that this story is not only about India and Pakistan but also about humanity, sacrifice, and the unconditional love of a mother. Sunny Deol plays a fearless man who stands up against violence and hatred during one of the most painful periods in history. His powerful dialogues, intense action scenes, and emotional expressions remind audiences why he is still one of Bollywood’s most loved action stars. The film is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, reuniting him with Sunny Deol after many years, a combination that has earlier delivered memorable films. One of the biggest highlights of the trailer is its emotional message about the “religion of Maa.” Instead of focusing only on conflict, the film shows how the love, care, and sacrifices of a mother rise above every religion, border, and political divide. Veteran actress Shabana Azmi plays a central role, and her emotional scenes with Sunny Deol leave a lasting impact. The trailer also features Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal, and Karan Deol in important roles, making the story feel even more powerful. Beautiful visuals, strong background music, and heartfelt performances add depth to the film and suggest that it will be an emotional journey rather than just an action drama. Fans have reacted positively to the trailer on social media, praising Sunny Deol’s commanding screen presence and the film’s emotional storytelling. Many viewers feel that the movie carries a meaningful message of peace, compassion, and unity while portraying the pain and suffering caused by Partition. Ahead of the trailer launch, Sunny Deol also dedicated the film to his mother, saying, “Meri Maa hi mera Rab hain,” which perfectly matches the film’s emotional theme. Batwara 1947 is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14, 2026, and expectations are already high for what could become one of the biggest patriotic and emotional films of the year.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:06 PM
Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 4 Updates: Vijays film struggles on Monday following an opening weekend of almost Rs 200 cr.
Thalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan had a powerful opening weekend, collecting more than ₹200 crore worldwide in just four days. The film enjoyed a strong response from fans, especially in Tamil Nadu, helping it cross ₹124.75 crore net at the Indian box office and around ₹217 crore worldwide gross by the end of Day 4. However, the film faced its first real challenge on Monday. After the excitement of the opening weekend, ticket sales slowed down, which is common for most big releases. While the collections were lower than Sunday, the movie still managed to hold its ground and continued to attract audiences in several key markets. Trade experts believe the Monday performance was decent enough to keep the film on a steady path. Despite mixed reviews from critics, Vijay's star power and loyal fan base have played a major role in the film's box office success. The political action drama has performed particularly well in Tamil-speaking regions and has also received a good response in overseas markets. Strong weekend earnings have given the film a solid foundation for the days ahead. The coming weekdays will be important in deciding how far Jana Nayagan can go at the box office. If it continues to maintain stable collections before new releases arrive, the film could end its theatrical run as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of the year. Industry observers will now be watching its weekday trend closely to see whether it can keep its momentum going.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:51 PM
Review of Jana Nayagan The pressure of being Vijays final film causes it to fall apart
Actor-turned-politician Vijay bids farewell to cinema with Jana Nayagan, a political action drama directed by H. Vinoth. As Vijay's final film before focusing on politics, expectations were extraordinarily high. While the film delivers several whistle-worthy moments, emotional fan service, and a strong political message, many critics believe it struggles to balance storytelling with its role as a farewell tribute. The story follows a fearless leader who stands up against corruption and injustice while protecting his people. The screenplay is packed with action sequences, emotional speeches, and political symbolism. However, reviewers note that the narrative often pauses to celebrate Vijay's screen persona rather than develop the plot, making the film feel more like a farewell campaign than a tightly written political thriller. Vijay's performance is widely regarded as the film's biggest strength. His commanding screen presence, powerful dialogues, emotional scenes, and action sequences remind audiences why he remains one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars. The climax, in particular, has been described as an emotional goodbye that resonated strongly with fans. Co-stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju deliver solid performances, though some critics felt their characters were underutilized. Early critical reception has been mixed. Some reviewers praised the film as an emotional send-off and a celebration of Vijay's legacy, while others criticized its predictable screenplay, lengthy runtime, and excessive fan service. Audience reactions on social media have also been divided, with many fans calling it a fitting farewell and others describing it as a missed opportunity for a stronger final film. Overall, Jana Nayagan succeeds more as a tribute to Vijay's remarkable career than as a consistently engaging political action drama. For longtime fans, it offers plenty of memorable moments and emotional satisfaction. For general audiences, however, its storytelling may feel uneven, weighed down by the pressure of delivering the perfect farewell.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:20 PM
Axis Bank is Religares pick of the month for March, 10% upside seen at TP of ₹1,185; should you buy?
Domestic brokerage firm Religare Broking has picked Axis Bank as its stock pick of the month for March 2024 with a potential upside seen around 10 per cent. Shares of Axis Bank were on an uptrend and gained around three per cent today as Nifty 50 hit a fresh lifetime high of 22,353.30 on strong macroeconomic indicators.On Friday, March 1, shares of Axis Bank opened at ₹1,074.05 and gained 2.5 per cent to hit an intra day high of ₹1,101.60 against its 52-week high of ₹1,151.50 apiece on the BSE. Shares of Axis Bank settled 2.20 per cent higher at ₹1,099.35 apiece on the BSE. At a current market price (CMP) of ₹1,085, Religare sees a potential upside of 10 per cent on Axis Bank stock at a target price of ₹1,185 from an initiation range of ₹1,080-1,085 and a stop loss of ₹1,030. Religare Broking highlights that in its report that Axis Bank has remained one among the top performer among the private banking majors and we expect the outperformance to continue. ‘’The stock has been in a primary uptrend from last more than eight months, forming series of Higher Highs and lows with gradual rise in volumes. It has formed an elevated base around the 20 weekly EMA which also coincides with rising support trend line,'' said Religare Broking. Following the price action and uptick in volumes indicates the stock to resume its prevailing trend and inch higher to surpass its previous swing high, according to the brokerage. The stock gained marginally (around three per cent) in the previous series with reduction of eight per cent open interest (OI). 98 per cent of the open positions rolled which is same with respect to previously. ‘’OI of 82k contracts as against 89k previously. Decent cash based buying also seen in last three days of February series. With fresh cash accumulation and shorts being trapped, it may witness good short covering,'' said Religare Broking. The bank's net interest income (NII) in the third quarter at ₹12,532, crore, which rose by nine per cent - almost in line with the market estimate of ₹12,555 crore. NII is the difference between interest earned by a bank through loans and interest it pays to depositors. Meanwhile, the net interest margin (NIM) stood at 4.01 percent for the quarter ended on December 31, 2023. Net Interest Margin refers to the difference between the interest income earned and the interest disbursed by a bank in relation to its interest-generating assets such as cash.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Potential for any re-rating delayed for Paytm, says UBS; still sees 25% upside in the stock – heres why
Shares of One 97 Communications (Paytm) have witnessed an almost 50 percent drop just in February as investor sentiment turned negative amid the RBI and Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) saga.In a recent note, brokerage house UBS said it believes that any potential for a re-rating of Paytm based on profitability improvement has been delayed. It has retained a 'neutral' call on the stock and reduced its target price to ₹510 (from ₹650 earlier). The new target indicates an over 25 percent potential upside. "Paytm's share price has derated significantly post RBI regulatory action and the stock is trading at 1.5x EV to one-year forward consensus sales, nearly an 80 percent discount to its Indian internet peers. Our ₹510 price target implies a 2.4x EV to FY25E sales, which is still a 70 percent discount to Indian internet peers. We believe this is justified as Paytm's growth profile is now much weaker at an 8 percent expected revenue CAGR over FY24-26E, versus Indian peers at a much higher 27 percent. Additionally, Paytm's re-rating potential based on its profitability improvement is now also pushed out and the company's margin profile is much weaker than peers. Furthermore, the loss of investor confidence based on the regulatory action is unlikely to change in a hurry. We believe only sustained execution in the coming quarters can re-build investor confidence which would drive a re-rating," explained the brokerage. The RBI on January 31 directed PPBL to stop accepting deposits or top-ups in customer accounts, wallets, FASTags, and other instruments after February 29, citing large-scale non-compliance with regulations and supervisory concerns. In the latest update, the Reserve Bank of India clarified that non-Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL) linked merchants (85 percent of the total) can continue to function as normal and gave a 15-day extension till 15th March for most PPBL-linked activities. RBI also informed that @paytm UPI handles can be migrated to banks after approval from NPCI. This implies key linkages between Paytm and PPBL will be transferred to other banks via Paytm and also clears the way for Paytm to function as third-party app provider (TPAP), similar to its competitors PhonePe and Google Pay, once NPCI provides approval for the same. Following RBI's latest update, the anticipated negative impacts on Paytm have been alleviated to a considerable extent. Paytm is poised to retain a significant portion of its customer and merchant base pending certain approvals from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). However, UBS anticipates a churn of 15-20 percent in merchants, customers, and devices in Q4 compared to Q3 levels, accompanied by a steep decline of around 60 percent quarter-on-quarter in loan origination. Additionally, it foresees a challenging FY25 with a projected 2 percent revenue decline, attributed to the loss in the wallet business and gradual normalisation in payments and loan origination activities. To regain lost customers, Paytm is expected to escalate its marketing expenditure, leading to heightened EBITDA losses in FY25, consequently prompting adjustments in its EPS estimates.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Stock market selloff: Nifty forms Bearish Engulfing; 21,850 next?
Nifty on Wednesday could not sustain early gains and saw heavy selling, as it closed below the psychological mark of 22,000 for the time since February 15. The index formed a Bearish Engulfing pattern on the daily chart, which has a negative connotation. The silver lining was the index somehow managed to settle above its 21-day EMA on a closing basis. If the index stays below 22,000 level, chances are it may revisit 19,850-800 level, analysts said.“The index dropped below the 22,000 mark, indicating a growing weakness. Nevertheless, it managed to close just above the 21EMA on the daily timeframe. Observing the daily chart, the index has been navigating within a rising channel. A decline below 21,950 could potentially trigger a correction towards 21,800 in the near term,” said Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities. For the day, the 50-pack index closed at 21,951.15, down 247.20 points or 1.11 per cent. A sustained Nifty trade above 21,950 might spur a recovery in the index towards 22,100, De added. With the Bearish Engulfing candle, Nifty has given up all the gains of the previous week, said Chandan Taparia of Motilal Oswal Securities. This analyst believes that were the index say below 22000, weakness could be seen towards 21,850, followed by 21,700 levels. Resistances are seen at 22,150 and 22,222 levels, he said.atin Gedia – Technical Research Analyst at Sharekhan said that the index has reached its 20-day moving average of 21,944. He said the broad range of 21,800-22,300 still has not been breached. "The daily as well as hourly momentum indicators have a negative crossover, which is a sell signal. But prices are still in a range and, hence, a decisive breach below 21,875 i.e. the previous swing low is required to validate the change of trend. The Index is around the crucial support zone 21,900, which is likely to act as a make-or-break level from short term perspective," Gedia said.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:34 PM
IIT Kanpur’s 1974 batch pledges Rs 10.11 crore
"The Class of 1974 of the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has committed Rs 10.11 crore to fund a range of institute initiatives. The promise is made as part of the batch's Golden Jubilee Reunion, which will take place from February 23 to February 25, 2024, and will bring together over 80 graduates and their families. ""IIT Kanpur takes great pride in its alumni, and time and time again, our alumni have come together for supporting the growth of their alma mater through various means,"" stated Prof. S Ganesh, Director of IIT Kanpur, in response to the Class of 1974's kind pledge. The Class of 1974's commitment to support greatness at the institute by aiding in its development aligns with a shared goal He continued, ""The 'Batch Legacy Fund' will be used to enhance possibilities for both faculty and students. ""We, the proud alumni of the Class of 1974, are honored to unite and contribute to our cherished alma mater, IIT Kanpur,"" he stated, thanking his classmates for this endeavor and his alma mater, batch coordinator Yogesh Khosla. Our combined support is a testament to our great pride in the organization and our common goal of seeing it succeed moving forward. I would want to sincerely thank everyone of my classmates for their kind cooperation in this project. The Class of 1974's 50th reunion was a happy event full with memories, laughter, and introspection that will live on in the archives of IIT Kanpur, an institution thinkinh said. IIT Kanpur stated that the ""Class of 1974 Batch Legacy Fund"" will undoubtedly advance learning within its community and expressed its sincere gratitude to the Class of 1974 for their outstanding contribution and steadfast dedication. The researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will present their findings to the students during an open house. The purpose of the event is to give students a forum to interact with professionals and well-known businesspeople. March 2 and March 3 of 2024 will be dedicated to the open house. Shaastra will host IITM for Everyone. A statement on the social media account read, ""IIT Madras is open to all for the first time in 15 years."" "
Published 28 Feb 2024 05:34 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
Why Rahul Gandhi confronted the PM about the paper leak
today news that Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep The Indian Express Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Today India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Reuters India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Today Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown The Economic Times Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown Today On July 21, 2026, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi led a protest towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi over the ongoing examination paper leak issue and the police action against student protesters. The Congress said the Prime Minister should directly answer students' concerns instead of remaining silent on the issue. During the protest, Rahul Gandhi and several other opposition leaders were detained by the police. Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak issue to the Prime Minister's doorstep because he argued that the controversy is not just about one examination but about the future of millions of students and job seekers across the country. He accused the central government of failing to stop repeated exam paper leaks and demanded accountability from the highest level of government. According to Congress, the Prime Minister should take responsibility for ensuring a fair and transparent examination system. The protest also came after clashes between police and student demonstrators demanding action against paper leaks and reforms in the examination system. Rahul Gandhi criticized the police action on students and asked Prime Minister Modi to apologize for the handling of the protests. Congress leaders said they would continue raising the issue both inside and outside Parliament until their demands are addressed. The government has maintained that steps are being taken to strengthen the examination system and investigate paper leak cases. However, the opposition argues that stronger action and greater accountability are needed to restore students' confidence in competitive examinations. The issue has become a major political debate, with both the government and the opposition presenting different views on how the problem should be handled.
Published 21 Jul 2026 09:57 PM
AAP must leave its headquarters by June 15th, per a Supreme Court order.
The Aam Aadmi Party of Arvind Kejriwal will have to leave its headquarters, which are located on a plot of land designated for the High Court. The good news is that you still have until June 15 to act. The Supreme Court gave the party a long deadline because of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing that this is an encroachment case. The party may now submit an application for alternative land to the Land and Development Office of the Center.The bench, which included Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, stated, "We would request the L&DO to process the application and communicate its decision within a period of four weeks." The bench continued, "AAP has no legal right to remain on the land." The Delhi High Court was granted land in February to expand its operations and build more courtrooms for the Rouse Avenue location. The court had noticed that the AAP was intruding on this land. When considering a case involving the nation's judicial system, the highest court took notice of the issue.The state government promised at a meeting on February 15 that the plot would be removed in two months if a substitute plot was provided, in response to a court order. However, the situation remained unchanged. According to India's Chief Justice, DY Chandrachud, nobody has the authority to impose law on others. "It is absurd for any political party to sit on it. Every intrusion will be eliminated... The land should be given to the High Court so that it can be utilized by the general public and citizens, Justice Chandrachud stated.
Published 04 Mar 2024 05:31 PM
Article 21: The Constitutions Soul, with Citizens Liberty Supreme
According to the Supreme Court, Article 21 is the essence of the Constitution because it protects citizens' rights to liberty, which are so valuable that a person would lose them if the high court takes too long to decide cases pertaining to it. Amol Vithal Vahile, a prime accused in the murder of a corporator in Maharashtra, was granted bail by the Bombay High Court on January 29 following prodding from the top court, according to a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta.In a recent ruling, the bench stated that it is evident that prior to this court's order being issued on January 29, 2024, the high court had dismissed the bail application on one or more grounds rather than considering it on its merits.It goes without saying that Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is its core because it upholds the fundamental right to liberty for all citizens. It stated, "Depriving the party of their precious right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India would mean not reaching a quick decision and brushing off the issue on one or the other basis pertaining to a citizen's liberty." The bench stated that it has encountered numerous cases from the Bombay High Court in which the applications for bail and anticipatory bail were not resolved promptly. The bench mentioned one instance where the application for anticipatory bail was pending for over four years. "We have also encountered many cases where the judges find an excuse to reroute the case on unrelated grounds rather than rendering a decision based on the merits of the case. As a result, we ask the chief justice of the Bombay High Court to communicate our request to all judges who have criminal jurisdiction so that the issue of bail and anticipatory bail can be decided as soon as possible," the bench stated.It requested that the Supreme Court's Registrar (Judicial) forward this directive to the High Court's Registrar (Judicial), who will present it to the Bombay High Court's chief justice. The bench stated on January 29 that, despite the fact that Vahile had been detained for more than seven years, on March 30, 2023, the high court had ordered him to appear before the trial court for regular bail.
Published 02 Mar 2024 06:02 PM
What your scalp might be trying to tell you about why your dandruff keeps returning
Dandruff is one of the most common scalp problems, affecting millions of people worldwide. While many assume it is simply caused by a dry scalp, experts say recurring dandruff often points to a more complex issue. If white flakes continue to return even after using anti-dandruff shampoos, your scalp may be signaling an imbalance that needs more than a temporary fix. Factors such as excess oil production, fungal overgrowth, stress, weather changes, and even diet can contribute to persistent dandruff. One of the primary causes of recurring dandruff is the overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia. This fungus lives on everyone's scalp but can multiply rapidly when excess oil is present. As it feeds on scalp oils, it produces by-products that irritate the skin, leading to itching, redness, and flaking. Individuals with oily scalps are particularly prone to this cycle, which explains why dandruff often returns soon after treatment is stopped. Your scalp can also reflect your overall health. Dermatologists note that persistent dandruff may indicate conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or sensitivity to certain hair-care products. If dandruff is accompanied by severe itching, inflammation, yellowish flakes, or patches of redness, it is advisable to seek medical advice rather than relying solely on over-the-counter shampoos. Treating the underlying condition is often the key to achieving long-term relief.Lifestyle habits play a significant role as well. High stress levels can weaken the body's natural defenses, making the scalp more susceptible to irritation and fungal growth. Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet lacking essential nutrients such as zinc and B vitamins, and inadequate hydration may also worsen scalp health. Experts recommend maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support healthy skin and scalp function.
Published 06 Jul 2026 05:07 PM
A Significant Return for Marc Jacobs Beauty
Luxury makeup brand Marc Jacobs Beauty has officially returned in 2026 after being discontinued in 2021, marking one of the most talked-about beauty industry comebacks of the year. The brand relaunched with an entirely new collection of makeup products, including lipsticks, blush sticks, bronzers, eyeliners, mascaras, eyeshadows, and highlighters. The comeback is being led in partnership with Coty Inc., with products launching online and through Sephora stores.Beauty enthusiasts and industry experts have responded positively to the relaunch. The new collection features playful heart, star, and daisy-inspired packaging while maintaining the bold, high-performance formulas that made the original brand popular. Several products, particularly the Heart On Lipstick, Drawn This Way Eyeliner, and Born Star Eyeshadow, have generated strong demand and early sell-outs.Industry analysts view the return as a strategic move in the premium beauty market, where consumers are increasingly seeking distinctive brands with strong creative identities. Marc Jacobs himself recently described the relaunch as a modern reinvention rather than a revival of the old line, emphasizing individuality and self-expression as the brand's core philosophy.
Published 04 Jun 2026 06:02 PM
The days of microbladed eyebrows are over but are they reversible
Our eyebrows have seen more changes than any other feature. Brows have seen it all, from the thin, pencil-style brows of the year 2000 to the fuller, laminated look of today. But one thing hasn't changed: if you get your eyebrows correct, half of your appearance is taken care of.Microbladed eyebrows were commonplace for a very long period. Because the fad promised bigger, more natural-looking brows with less daily work, celebrities, influencers, and regular people loved it. For many, it provided a long-term solution for uneven or sparse eyebrows. But beauty trends change quickly, and what was once considered contemporary and attractive is now beginning to feel antiquated. Many people are starting to reconsider their previous microblading decisions as softer, more natural brows become more popular.In essence, microblading is a cosmetic tattooing method in which pigment is manually applied to the skin's surface to simulate eyebrow hair. According to Dr. Ruby Sachdev, an aesthetician and consultant at Gleneagles Hospital in Bengaluru, it became well-liked by those who want larger eyebrows without using makeup every day.
Published 03 Jun 2026 09:52 PM
Benefits of Sattu Indias first protein beverage
These days, a growing number of individuals are including tasty and nourishing "superfoods" from all over the world in their diets. Imagine those colorful matcha lattes, creamy avocado toasts, delicious chia pudding, quinoa salads, and cool kale smoothies. They are healthy in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. Just a gentle reminder: Is it really necessary to spend a lot of money to maintain your health?No, I believe! Sattu is an ancient superfood from India that is tasty, affordable, and very potent. This adaptable component, which is made from roasted gram flour, has been loved and consumed for more than 3,000 years, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Chana sattu, once cherished by diligent farmers for a rapid energy boost, is now widely accepted as a wholesome and organic supplement to contemporary meals nationwide. Let's examine the advantages of sattu powder, how it outperforms the most well-liked protein-rich foods, and why it should be at the top of your diet list before you hurry to try another foreign health craze.A traditional Indian flour produced from roasted barley or chickpeas is called sattu powder. In India, it is a native source of protein. It is a well-liked superfood with several health advantages due to its high protein content. Sattu, sometimes referred to as the "desi protein shake," is high in minerals, fiber, and plant-based protein. It is a popular dish in India that is becoming more and more well-known abroad.
Published 08 May 2026 06:04 PM
Ek bihari sab pe bhari Virat Kohli gives Vaibhav Sooryavanshi particular recognition
Virat Kohli's heartfelt praise for young Bihar cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become one of the most talked-about moments after the IPL 2026 season. Following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's title-winning campaign, Kohli met the 15-year-old sensation and shared words of encouragement that quickly went viral on social media.In a video released by RCB, Kohli advised Vaibhav to stay focused on hard work and self-belief rather than outside opinions. He told the youngster that his success had come through dedication and confidence and urged him to keep aiming higher. The highlight of the conversation was Kohli's special line, "Ek Bihari, sab pe bhari", praising the Bihar-born batter for his remarkable performances throughout IPL 2026. .Vaibhav emerged as one of the biggest stars of the tournament, earning widespread admiration for his fearless batting and maturity at such a young age. His performances attracted praise from former cricketers and fans alike, with many viewing him as one of Indian cricket's brightest future prospects.The interaction between Kohli and Vaibhav was widely appreciated by cricket fans, who saw it as a passing-of-the-torch moment between one of India's greatest batters and a rising teenage talent. Kohli's message of humility, hard work, and self-belief has since been shared extensively across social media platforms.
Published 04 Jun 2026 05:53 PM
Virat Kohli changes once more incorporating elements of Abhishek and Sooryavanshi into his game
The cameras showed Kohli putting his arm over Sooryavanshi's shoulder and conversing with him for several minutes. Although the topic of the talk is unknown, rest assured that Sooryavanshi returned home much wealthier than he would have if he had only received a few honors. Less than a day has passed since Sooryavanshi was recommended for Test cricket by none other than the great Sachin Tendulkar. He had also complimented his batting style earlier.It is important to note that earlier in the 2026 IPL season, Kohli signed Sooryavanshi's cap and gave him an autograph after the left-handed hitter destroyed the RCB bowlers all over the field during the match at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.Sooryavanshi won five awards when the IPL 2026 concluded. The 15-year-old was named Super Striker, Super Sixes of the Season, Orange Cap, Emerging Player of the Season, and Most Valuable Player. Sooryavanshi broke Chris Gayle's record for the most maximums in a single IPL season with 72 sixes during the 19th T20 competition. In the competition, he also became the fastest Indian to reach 1000 runs. In addition, he became the youngest player in the tournament to hit 1000 runs, surpassing Rishabh Pant.Sooryavanshi acknowledged that he would need to improve his fitness going forward if he wanted to have a lengthy career after receiving so many honors. "I need to improve my fitness if I want to avoid getting hurt. Everyone is really encouraging. In an interview with Ravi Shastri, Sooryavanshi stated, "Everyone supports me, including the senior players and support staff. It's a good atmosphere." Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has praised Sooryavanshi as well. According to the renowned Indian hitter, the young player possesses all the necessary skills to participate in the game's longest format.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.
Published 02 Jun 2026 10:57 PM
For the first time in an IPL season Indian hitters outpace foreign batters
IPL 2026 had the highest batting strike rate of any season at 156.34. For the first time in an IPL season, Indian hitters (157.10) scored more runs than foreign batters (154.71). 237.30 strike rate, 776 runs, and 72 sixes In an IPL season, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became just the second hitter to score the most runs, hit the most sixes, and have the greatest strike rate (minimum 50 balls faced). Like Sooryavanshi, Chris Gayle was named Most Valuable Player in 2011.In the previous nine seasons, none of the highest run-scorers were among the top 15 strike rates in that season. The difference between Sooryavanshi's IPL 2026 run total and the next highest total for a batsman with a strike rate of 235 or more in any IPL season (Romario Shepherd's 70 runs in 2025) is 706 runs. IPL 2026 saw 65 totals of 200 or more, the highest in a T20 competition and 13 more than the previous record of 52 in IPL 2025. Individual teams also set new records in IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) all scored nine runs of 200 or more, the most in a Twenty20 competition.In terms of bowling, PBKS and RR gave up 200-plus totals nine times, which is also the most in a Twenty20 competition. IPL 2026 saw the highest number of sixes struck in a season, 1426, up 10.2% from the previous record of 1294 sixes in 2025. Thanks to 72 sixes from Sooryavanshi, who established the individual record for most sixes in a T20 competition, RR struck 181 sixes, the most of any team in a T20 event.
Published 01 Jun 2026 09:34 PM
Ramakrishna Ghoshs injury has been replaced by Macneil Noronha.
Macneil Noronha, an all-rounder from Karnataka who recently won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman awards for being the highest run-getter in the 2024/25 Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy, will join Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 30 lakh as a replacement for Ramakrishna Ghosh, who injured his right foot during their game against Mumbai Indians on May 3rd and is out for the season. He will not play this season.Macneil Noronha will take Ghosh's place at CSK for INR 30 lakh.Noronha, a Karnataka all-rounder, has won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman Awards for scoring the most runs in the Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy for 2024–2025. Noronha was called up by the Karnataka team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy after an outstanding season, and he played in three games for his state.For the remainder of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, the Chennai Super Kings have selected Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha to replace injured uncapped player Ramakrishna Ghosh.He was called up to Karnataka's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad as a result of his domestic achievements, and he played in three games. Noronha made an impressive 34 off 21 deliveries in his most recent match against Tripura in December 2025. He also contributed a wicket. The move comes after Ghosh was sidelined for the rest of the season due to a right foot injury he sustained during Chennai's match against Mumbai Indians on May 3. Ghosh had just made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut in that match, contributing to Chennai's decisive eight-wicket victory. Introduced into the attack in a high-pressure match, the young player returned figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had looked dangerous after reaching 21 off just 12 balls. In that match, Ghosh made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut and contributed to Chennai's convincing eight-wicket victory. The youthful player, who was brought into the attack in a high-stress match, recorded figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had appeared dangerous after reaching 21 off only 12 balls.Chennai will be hoping that Noronha will offer valuable depth as they continue to strive for a play-off position in spite of the setback.
Published 13 May 2026 05:46 PM
There are five main reasons why Prashant Kishor will defeat the BJP in Bankipur.
Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who is now a politician, has an early advantage in the Bihar seat of Bankipur. Neeraj Kumar of the BJP is his nearest opponent. According to the most recent Election Commission figures, Kishor received 31,742 votes after Round 16 counting, while Kumar trailed him by more than 8,966 votes. Ghanshyam Singh of the Congress has more than 38,000 seats in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, while Ashutosh Tiwari of the BJP is behind by 6,500 votes. The final round of counting in Manjalpur, Gujarat, has given Satendrabhai Patel of the BJP a commanding lead of more than 29,000 votes.Since the widespread nationwide student protests over the paper leaks, these are the first elections. It is anticipated that the results would reflect the sentiment of the nation, particularly among young voters. No BJP candidate has ever lost from Bankipur, the party's stronghold. Nitin Nabin, the leader of the BJP, was the last person to occupy the position before he was elected to the Rajya Sabha. However, a hitch in the BJP camp and the long-awaited arrival of Prashant Kishor in the electoral arena will make this election noteworthy.BJP candidate Abhishek Kumar Sinha withdrew last month, citing "family reasons," just one day after submitting his nomination papers. Neeraj Kumar Sinha, a leader of the youth wing, was then selected as the BJP's candidate. In the opposition camp, it had caused a great deal of laughter. Its leaders mocked the BJP by claiming that the party was "jittery at the prospects of a defeat" in the seat that the party chairman had left empty.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:45 PM
2 big reasons why Left thinks it lost Kerala Vijayan, soft Hindutva
L&T Realty has announced two important leadership appointments to strengthen its management team and support the company's future growth plans. The company has appointed Navneet Kaul as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO), while Rishi Kailash Bansal has been appointed as Executive Director and Head of Land and Logistics Development. Both appointments have taken effect immediately and are expected to play a key role in driving the company's expansion across residential, commercial, and logistics real estate projects. Navneet Kaul has been associated with L&T Realty for several years and has contributed to the successful execution of many major projects. As the new Chief Operating Officer, he will oversee the company's day-to-day operations, improve project delivery, and help maintain high standards of quality and customer satisfaction. His experience in managing large real estate developments is expected to support the company's long-term growth strategy. At the same time, Rishi Kailash Bansal will lead the land acquisition and logistics development business. His role will focus on identifying new development opportunities, strengthening the company's land portfolio, and expanding its presence in the rapidly growing logistics and industrial real estate sector. These appointments reflect L&T Realty's commitment to building a strong leadership team capable of meeting future business opportunities and delivering sustainable growth.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:13 PM
Mahua Moitra, a TMC MP, asks the HC to safeguard her from being thrown eggs.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking protection after alleging that eggs are being hurled at her during public appearances in West Bengal. According to her petition, such incidents have repeatedly taken place wherever she travels in her constituency, causing humiliation and disrupting her ability to perform her duties as an elected Member of Parliament. Through her lawyer, Moitra requested the court to direct the police to provide adequate security and prevent further attacks. During the hearing on Thursday, the Calcutta High Court said it would take up the matter on July 29. Moitra's counsel argued that despite an earlier court direction to prevent such incidents, the police had failed to take effective action. While an FIR has reportedly been registered, the petition claims that the lack of adequate police protection has allowed repeated acts of intimidation to continue. The court heard submissions from the state authorities before adjourning the matter to the next hearing date. The plea comes after a series of political confrontations in Nadia district, where Moitra has alleged that BJP supporters targeted her with eggs and other objects during protests. BJP leaders have denied the allegations, and the matter has become part of the ongoing political tensions between the ruling TMC and the opposition in West Bengal. The High Court's upcoming hearing is expected to determine whether additional security measures or further directions to the police are required.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:26 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
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Finance & Stock Market Trend
All Trending News in India
Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Race Car Launch Date Revealed
Red Bull announces its Formula 1 2024 season launch date, set for February 15, aligning with Mercedes and Alpine's unveiling. Sergio Perez is confirmed to continue alongside Verstappen in 2024. Its predecessor, the RB19, dominated the 2023 season with all but one of the 22 Grand Prix races. Red Bull Racing has officially announced its Formula 1 2024 season launch date, aligning with its rivals Mercedes and Alpine. The unveiling is scheduled for February 15, a mere six days before the commencement of winter testing in Bahrain. While it remains uncertain whether Red Bull will present the actual RB20 car or reveal an updated colour scheme on a show car, expectations are high following the exceptional success of its predecessor, the RB19, which dominated the 2023 season, securing all but one of the 22 Grand Prix victories and propelling Max Verstappen to a more than comfortable third world championship.In response to questions about the team's prospects in the upcoming season, Christian Horner, Red Bull team boss, drew parallels with Mercedes' dominance in 2020 and emphasised the dynamic nature of Formula. Despite subtle rule changes, Horner acknowledged the evolving competition and expressed the team's commitment to adapting lessons learned from the RB19 to the development of the RB20, aiming for a competitive car to defend their titles.Sergio Perez is confirmed to continue alongside Verstappen in 2024, facing a crucial year to secure a contract extension with Red Bull. The team's launch follows announcements from Mercedes and Alpine, with Mercedes revealing its new W15 on February 14. Alpine, Renault's brand, is set to unveil its 2024 motorsport season, encompassing both F1 and the World Endurance Championship teams, on February 7. The launch dates for AlphaTauri, McLaren, and Haas are yet to be disclosed, completing the lineup of F1 teams preparing for the upcoming campaign.
Published 25 Jan 2024 09:50 PM
Toto Wolff Extends Contract With Mercedes For 3 More Years
Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff signs a new three-year contract, extending his leadership until the end of 2026. The deal involves Wolff, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe, and Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius.The contract excludes performance clauses.Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff has inked a new three-year contract, securing his leadership until at least the end of 2026, according to an exclusive interview with The Daily Telegraph. The deal involves Wolff, INEOS owner Jim Ratcliffe, and Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius. Remarkably, the contract excludes performance clauses, emphasising trust between the parties and Wolff's commitment to achieving success rather than relying on specific track outcomes.Wolff, who owns 33 per cent of the team, clarified, "I've never had a performance clause; you either trust each other or you don't." The new agreement arises amid speculation about Wolff's position due to Mercedes' recent struggles in comparison to Red Bull's consecutive title wins. Despite external pressures, the contract demonstrates mutual confidence and a desire to navigate challenges as a united front. The lack of performance clauses aligns with Wolff's emphasis on stability and a long-term perspective. He believes that the absence of such conditions reinforces the shared goal of achieving a strong return on investment, which, in the context of Formula 1, translates to winning races and championships. His commitment extends beyond the team principal role, encompassing responsibilities as a co-shareholder and a member of the board.Reflecting on the risks associated with his role, Wolff expressed a concern for "bore-out" rather than burnout, indicating a preference for overcoming challenges and embracing difficulties rather than stagnating in a dominant position. The Mercedes team principal remains driven by the prospect of re-establishing the team's dominance in Formula 1.Wolff's new contract is significant not only for its duration but also for the absence of conditional performance metrics. It reflects a collective decision by the stakeholders to persist in their current roles and address the challenges that come with a downturn in the team's performance. The deal positions Wolff as a key figure in Mercedes' efforts to reclaim its leading position in Formula 1 and underscores the importance of trust and collaboration among the team's principal shareholders.In the larger context, the contract signals a commitment to stability, allowing Mercedes to navigate a transitional phase in Formula 1 and work towards regaining competitiveness. While the team faces uncertainties regarding the performance of the new Mercedes W15 car, Wolff's enduring leadership provides continuity and stability during a critical period.As Wolff embarks on the next three years, the focus will be on steering Mercedes back to the summit of Formula 1, where it enjoyed a dominant position for much of the past decade.
Published 24 Jan 2024 11:22 PM
2024 Bajaj Chetak review, first ride
Where every other electric scooter in the mainstream has aspired to carve a niche for itself in the market as a futuristic next-generation mobility solution, Bajaj has attempted to authentically replicate an experience in electric with their Chetak. The all-metal body, the rounded design and the minimal technological intervention. All of which meant that up until now the Chetak was left to an ever-diminishing demographic of people familiar with the original Chetak. For 2024, without really making too many big changes, Bajaj has upped their ante and expanded the reach of the updated bike to new demographics with a slight rejig of the equipment list.But before we jump into what's new. Let us talk about the design and build of the new Chetak for a second. The design hasn’t changed from the first generation of the Chetak. The rounded fascia with the round headlamp and the svelte body section set in an all-metal body make for a very premium-feeling scooter. It also gets all LED lighting as standard. However, while the build on the paint and the bodywork do feel premium, the plastics and the body mouldings do seem a little off-brand for the premium electric scooter. Switchgear, though, is a premium touch and feels solid, although we did notice a few times when buttons on the instruments would not respond momentarily. But before we jump into what's new. Let us talk about the design and build of the new Chetak for a second. The design hasn’t changed from the first generation of the Chetak. The rounded fascia with the round headlamp and the svelte body section set in an all-metal body make for a very premium-feeling scooter. It also gets all LED lighting as standard. However, while the build on the paint and the bodywork do feel premium, the plastics and the body mouldings do seem a little off-brand for the premium electric scooter. Switchgear, though, is a premium touch and feels solid, although we did notice a few times when buttons on the instruments would not respond momentarily.
Published 24 Jan 2024 11:21 PM
Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift vs Kia Seltos vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs others: Price comparison
India Today was the first news organisation to confirm that Hyundai Motor India will launch the Hyundai Creta facelift in the country in 2024. We also maintained that the Hyundai Creta facelift price will range from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). Well, it seems that we are bang on the target so far as the price of the vehicle is concerned.Among the other rivals, the Elevate's price ranges from Rs 11.58 lakh to Rs 16.40 lakh (ex-showroom), the Urban Cruiser Hyryder's price from Rs 11.14 lakh to Rs 20.19 lakh (ex-showroom), that of the Kushaq from Rs 11.89 lakh to Rs 20.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the price of the Taigun from Rs 11.70 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom) and the Astor from Rs 9.98 lakh to Rs 17.90 lakh (ex-showroom). In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, the SUV segment continues to witness fierce competition with manufacturers constantly upgrading their models to meet the changing preferences of consumers. In this comparison, we will focus on the recently launched Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift, the popular Kia Seltos, the established Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and a few other noteworthy contenders. Let’s delve into the key aspects, specifications, and prices to help you make an informed decision.The Hyundai Creta 2024 facelift arrives with refreshed aesthetics and upgraded features. Packed with cutting-edge technology, the Creta continues to be a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. The price for the base variant starts at $XX,XXX, making it a competitive option in its class.The Kia Seltos, known for its stylish design and feature-packed interior, remains a top choice for SUV enthusiasts. With a starting price of $XX,XXX, the Seltos offers a compelling mix of performance and comfort. Its diverse range of engine options and trim levels allows buyers to tailor their purchase according to their preferences.
Published 24 Jan 2024 11:21 PM
JLR India launches Discovery Sport 2024 at Rs 67.90 lakh
JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model.The Discovery Sport 2024 is available in Dynamic SE with two engine options - 2.0-litre petrol (245hp and 365Nm) and 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel (201hp and 430Nm). Both engines are mated to an automatic transmission. The new Discovery Sport gets subtle exterior updates. There is a contrast roof and exterior accents, including Discovery script, grille, lower body sills and lower bumpers, all having a distinctive Gloss Black finish. There is Gloss Black front claw detailing on the bumpers and wheel arches. There are 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. The SUV also gets a new Varesine Blue exterior paint option.JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model. JLR India today launched the Discovery Sport 2024 in the country at a starting price of Rs 67.90 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2024 model comes with a price cut of Rs 3.49 lakh over the 2023 model.The new Discovery Sport gets subtle exterior updates. There is a contrast roof and exterior accents, including Discovery script, grille, lower body sills and lower bumpers, all having a distinctive Gloss Black finish. There is Gloss Black front claw detailing on the bumpers and wheel arches. There are 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. The SUV also gets a new Varesine Blue exterior paint option.You now get a digital instrument cluster and steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles as standard, while the redesigned centre console boasts a new floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen. The latest Pivi Pro infotainment set-up features permanently accessible sidebars, which provide shortcuts to key vehicle controls and functions, such as media, volume, climate and navigation. There is a panoramic glass roof as well.The SUV has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and a wireless charger. A natural shadow oak trim finisher surrounds a new gear shifter. Discovery Sport Dynamic SE features DuoLeather interiors with up to two colour options.
Published 24 Jan 2024 11:24 PM
Assam govt threatening people not to join Cong yatra, says Rahul Gandhi
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday alleged that Assam's BJP-led government has been threatening people against joining the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, and refusing permissions for programmes along its route.People, however, are not afraid of the BJP, Gandhi asserted at a public gathering in Biswanath Chariali, the headquarters of Biswanath district.He also said the Congress will win by a huge margin against the BJP in the upcoming elections."We don't make long speeches as part of the yatra. We travel every day for 7-8 hours, talk to delegations, meet people and listen to their issues. And then, we fight for your issues; that is the aim of this yatra."When elections come, Congress will defeat BJP by massive margins," Gandhi asserted, urging party workers to march forward despite being threatened, and beaten up, as the fight is for the people.The yatra is in its fourth day in the state, having re-entered after a night halt in Arunachal Pradesh. It is scheduled to travel through Assam till January 25, covering a total of 833 km across 17 districts.Gandhi also alleged that flags and banners of the Congress are being damaged in the state."They (government) think they can threaten the people and suppress them. But, they are not realising this is not Rahul Gandhi's yatra. It is a yatra for the voice of the people," he said."Neither Rahul Gandhi nor people of the state are afraid of them," the former Congress chief said.He continued to target Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, terming him as the most corrupt CM in the country."Everyone knows that the CM and his entire family are the most corrupt. The Assam government is run for the benefit of one family... the Congress MP alleged.He said that injustice was being done to farmers, who don't get the price for their produce, youths who don't find jobs after finishing studies and traders who bore the brunt of demonetisation and GST.
Published 24 Jan 2024 10:03 PM
Budget 2024-25: Govt may increase capex to propel economic growth
With private investment still muted, the government is likely to maintain its momentum on increasing capital expenditure, especially for the infrastructure sector in the upcoming Budget to propel economic growth.Post Covid-19, the Budget has been laying special emphasis on capex. It has kick-started a dormant cycle for the economy. As a result India has witnessed over 7 per cent growth in the last three years, the highest among the large economies of the world. During the current financial year, the government has made a record high provision of Rs 10 lakh crore towards capex. During 2020-21, the government earmarked Rs 4.39 lakh crore which increased by 35 per cent to Rs 5.54 lakh crore in the subsequent year.Another 35 per cent hike in capex was done in 2022-23 to Rs 7.5 lakh crore which subsequently reached a high of Rs 10 lakh crore, an increase of 37.4 per cent.In the upcoming Budget too, the government is expected to earmark a large amount towards capex as such investment has a multiplier effect on the economy and it also crowds in private investment."We estimate Government of India to budget for a capex of Rs 10.2 lakh crore in FY25, implying a relatively sedate YoY expansion of about 10 per cent, compared to over 20 per cent expansion seen in each of post-COVID years. The slowdown in capex growth is likely to have some bearing on economic activity and GDP growth," Icra said in its pre-Budget expectations. The capex rose by 31 per cent to Rs 5.9 lakh crore in April-November of the current fiscal (58.5 per cent of FY2024 BE) from Rs 4.5 lakh in April-November FY23 (60.7 per cent of FY23 Prov).While the growth remained high, capital spending contracted in October 2023 (-14.9 per cent; first instance of contraction since April 2023) and then rose by a marginal 1.6 per cent in November 2023. Moreover, it has averaged at Rs 73,210 crore/month, 12.2 per cent lower than the required monthly average of Rs 83,400 crore to meet the budgeted target of Rs 10 lakh crore.India is a hugely infra deficit country and heavy lifting in this regard is being done by the government which crowds in private investment. With the growth in the economy, there has been a pick-up in private investment in recent times in some of the sectors like steel, cement and petroleum sector.According to Emkay Global Financial Services head research Seshadri Sen, capex by the government would continue and it will happen at a faster pace.The capex would help unlock the virtuous cycle. Investment leading to productivity growth, job creation, demand and exports feed into each other and enable animal spirits in the economy to thrive.
Published 24 Jan 2024 10:02 PM
Sensex, Nifty tick higher after a 3-day drop; IRFC, Network 18 jump up to 5%
The 30-share BSE Sensex surged 635 points or 0.89 per cent to trade at 71,822, while the NSE Nifty was up 169 points or 0.79 per cent to trade at 21,631. Indian equity benchmarks were up in Friday's early trade following a three-day losing streak, led by gains across all sectors. The 30-share BSE Sensex surged 635 points or 0.89 per cent to trade at 71,822, while the NSE Nifty was up 169 points or 0.79 per cent to trade at 21,631. Broader markets (mid- and small-cap shares) were positive as Nifty Midcap 100 rose 0.83 per cent and small-cap gained 0.95 per cent. On the global front, Asian markets opened higher, tracking an overnight rise in Wall Street equities.Back home, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold Rs 9,901.56 crore worth of shares on a net basis during the previous session, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought Rs 5,977.12 crore worth of shares, exchange data showed. All the 15 sector gauges -- compiled by the NSE -- were trading in the green. Sub-indexes Nifty Financial Services and Nifty IT were outperforming the NSE platform by rising as much as 1.01 per cent and 1.22 per cent, respectively.On the stock-specific front, Tech Mahindra was the top gainer in the Nifty pack as the stock soared 2.74 per cent to trade at Rs 1,392.3. Wipro, Coal India, HCL Tech and TCS rose up to 1.92 per cent. In contrast, IndusInd Bank was the top loser on Nifty50. The overall market breadth was strong as 2,411 shares were advancing while 400 were declining on BSE.On the 30-share BSE index, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Infosys, TCS, Axis Bank, ITC, L&T, Airtel and Titan were among the top gainers.Also, BSE 500 stocks such as IRFC, Network18, Home First Finance, IndiaMART, Poonawalla Fincorp, HUDCO and ITI moved up to 5.33 per cent higher. On the other hand, Shoppers Stop, Metro Brands, Dixon Technologies, Polycab India, ZEE, Cholamandalam Finance and Alembic Pharma slipped up to 3.78 per cent.
Published 24 Jan 2024 10:02 PM
Paytm Credit Card on UPI enables effortless daily transactions like payments on grocery stores, chai shops
With just a smartphone, users can easily make UPI payments via credit cards on the Paytm app, powered by Paytm Payments Bank. The convenience of digital transactions have become a fundamental aspect of our daily lives in today’s fast paced world. One such transformative force in the digital payment landscape is the integration of UPI payments through credit cards on the Paytm app. Making small payments of ₹10 to ₹100 bucks through credit at your nearby Kirana stores or a local chai shop or even a chat shop has evolved into the ultimate and convenient payment method for users. This groundbreaking feature offers users the convenience of utilizing credit for routine payments, eliminating the need to rely solely on savings accounts and carrying the card everywhere. With just a smartphone, users can easily make UPI payments via credit cards on the Paytm app, powered by Paytm Payments Bank. Users simply need to link their Rupay Credit Card to UPI through a straightforward process with quick and easy steps. The Credit Card on UPI feature allows users to scan merchant QR codes, allowing them to earn reward points with every transaction.With millions of merchants now accepting payments via credit cards on UPI, this can have a significant impact on the payment landscape. This integration of RuPay Credit Cards on UPI not only expands credit card usage for customers but also supports merchants in the credit ecosystem through assets like QR codes. The increasing acceptance of RuPay credit cards on UPI contributes to financial inclusion, benefiting merchants and businesses across India. Paytm Payments Bank remains at the forefront of innovation, driving the adoption of UPI payments with credit cards, and envisions a future where this technology reshapes the dynamics of the payment ecosystem in India.
Published 24 Jan 2024 10:01 PM
Delhi-NCR stays in fog grip: Many trains, flights delayed, no respite till Jan 21
Dense to very dense fog and cold day to severe cold day conditions are likely to continue to prevail over North for the next 2 days (Jan 21) and then decrease in intensity.Fog update: Respite will have to wait for several parts of North India reeling under chilling cold wave conditions along with dense fog that has disrupted rail and air traffic for the past few weeks. Maximum temperatures have dropped below normal by 5-8 degrees Celsius since December. There was a brief respite on January 7 and 8, owing to a passing western disturbance but cold conditions returned from January 9. Dense to very dense fog and cold day to severe cold day conditions are likely to continue to prevail over North for the next 2 days (Jan 21) and then decrease in intensity. Cold wave and dense fog conditions are likely to prevail over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, according to the forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD)."Dense to very dense fog at a few places in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand," the weather department said."Cold day to severe cold day conditions at a few places in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana. Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions at a few places in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and at isolated places in Himanchal Pradesh. Ground frost at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand," it added. The early-morning foggy weather in Delhi and adjoining areas has significantly impacted road, rail, and air traffic over the past several days. On Friday, at least 22 trains from various parts of the country were running late, and several flight operations were delayed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport due to low visibility amid the fog.According to the weather department, minimum temperatures are in the range of 3-6 degrees Celsius over many parts of Punjab and some parts of Haryana-Chandigarh; in the range of 7-10 degrees Celsius over most parts of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, north Madhya Pradesh and Bihar.These are below normal by 1 degree to 3 degrees Celsius over many parts of Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi and West Uttar Pradesh and in isolated pockets of Rajasthan.
Published 24 Jan 2024 10:00 PM
Removing layers: Sundar Pichai hints at more layoffs at Google in 2024
A day after laying off around 1,000 employees, Google chief executive officer (CEO) Sundar Pichai, on Wednesday, hinted towards more job cuts in the year ahead, The Verge reported. Terming it as part of a larger restructuring plan, Pichai, in an internal memo to Google employees, said, "We have ambitious goals and will be investing in our big priorities this year…the reality is that to create the capacity for this investment, we have to make tough choices."Referring to the "tough decisions", Pichai further said in the memo, "These role eliminations are not at the scale of last year's reductions and will not touch every team. His remark referenced Google's 2023 layoffs when the tech giant fired about 12,000 employees, the biggest layoff in the company's history in a single year.According to the report, Pichai said the layoffs this year were about "removing layers to simplify execution and drive velocity in some areas."Pichai's communication followed a day after Google handed pink slips to around 1,000 employees in the advertising sales team in the first layoff wave of 2024. The company said the eligible employees would receive severance pay. It also offered that the impacted employees may re-apply for open positions in other departments. However, it clarified that those unable to secure a position at the company would be required to exit by April. The developments followed about a week after Google had announced that it would lay off hundreds of people working on its voice-activated Google Assistant software and the company's Devices and Services team.Apart from Google, Jeff Bezos' Amazon also announced last week that it would fire several hundred employees in its streaming and studio operations.Neither company has specified the exact number of job role cuts they are planning in 2024.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:58 PM
HDFC seeks Singapore bank licence to open its 1st branch in the country
HDFC Bank Ltd, India’s biggest private sector lender, is seeking to open its first branch in Singapore, signaling its overseas ambitions after sewing up a landmark merger with mortgage financier Housing Development Finance Corp. last year. The bank has applied to the Monetary Authority of Singapore for a banking licence and is awaiting approval, according to sources familiar with the matter. It is not clear what kind of banking licence HDFC Bank is seeking in Singapore, said one of the people, who declined to be identified as the information is confidential.The banking giant is seeking a bigger presence abroad to tap the Indian diaspora for savings and term deposits, as well as to cross-sell more products, including mortgages, the people said. At home, HDFC has been focusing on deepening its reach in the world’s most populous country through loans to retail customers. HDFC Bank did not respond to an email seeking comment. “As a matter of policy, MAS does not comment on our dealings with financial institutions,” according to a spokesperson from the Singapore regulator.Singapore, with a population of almost 6 million people, houses a large India diaspora. About 650,000 non-resident and persons of Indian origin live in the city-state, according to Indian government data.HDFC Bank is currently not licenced or regulated by the MAS, according to its website. It only provides home loans-related advisory services for the purchase of properties in India, the website states. The categories of banking licences in Singapore encompass full banks, qualifying full banks and wholesale banks, which impose varying levels of restrictions on the lenders’ activities. State Bank of India and ICICI Bank Ltd. hold qualifying full banking licences, alongside eight other banks like Bank of China Ltd. and BNP Paribas SA. Such licences are open only to foreign banks and allow them to have additional branches and/or off-premise ATMs as well as to share ATMs among themselves, according to the Association of Banks in Singapore’s website.The MAS regulates and supervises more than 150 deposit-taking institutions in Singapore, ranging from full banks to finance companies, according to its website. Besides Singapore, HDFC Bank also has presence in markets like London, Hong Kong and Bahrain. The India bank has a total customer base of 93 million at the end of the December quarter compared with 91 million in the preceding three-month period, according to an investor presentation.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:58 PM