Term Life Policy Explained: Affordable Protection for Families

October 9, 2025: Every household faces uncertainties, and financial security can often feel fragile in the face of life’s unpredictability. A term life policy is designed to provide stability in such times. It is affordable, straightforward, and built to protect families from the burden of financial loss. By paying a fixed sum to your family members in the event of your untimely demise during the policy term, it ensures that their future plans are not disrupted.

Whether it is maintaining a home, paying off debts, or securing children’s education, this type of cover can act as a vital safety net. Keep reading to understand its features, benefits, and why a term life policy is considered a cornerstone of sound financial planning.

What is a Term Life Policy?

A term life policy is the simplest form of life insurance. It provides pure risk cover, meaning the only benefit is the payout to nominees if the insured person passes away during the chosen policy term. Since it does not have an investment element, premiums are comparatively low. This makes it an efficient way to secure high coverage at a fraction of the cost of other life insurance options.

Why Families Need a Term Life Policy

Families often rely on a single source of income to meet essential expenses. The sudden loss of that income can cause significant financial distress. A term life policy helps to replace this income and ensures that dependents can continue their lives without interruption.
The benefit amount can be used to repay loans, cover household costs, or invest in education and healthcare. By taking this step, you create a foundation of security that supports your loved ones during uncertain times.

Features of a Term Life Policy

There are some essential features of a good term life policy. Here are a few to name some:

Affordable Premiums

The cost-effectiveness of a term life policy is one of its strongest advantages. Even with a modest premium, you can secure a sum assured that is large enough to provide meaningful financial support to your family.

Flexible Duration

Policies offer flexibility in selecting terms that can range from 10 years to 40 years. You can align the cover with life stages such as raising children, paying off a mortgage, or reaching retirement.

High Sum Assured

Because the premiums are low, you can opt for a high sum assured. This ensures that your family is well-supported in the long term, meeting major commitments with ease.

Customisation with Riders

Optional riders can be added to a term life policy. These include critical illness cover, accidental death benefit, or waiver of premium. Riders make the plan adaptable to individual needs and risks.

Eligibility and Documentation

To purchase a term life policy, you must fall within the eligible age bracket, usually between 18 and 65 years. Standard documents include proof of age, address proof, identity proof, and income records. For higher cover amounts, medical tests may also be required. Having these ready ensures your application process is smooth and efficient.

How Premiums are Calculated

The premium of a term life policy depends on your age, lifestyle, health condition, and the coverage amount you choose. Younger applicants with healthy habits usually enjoy lower rates. Starting early means you can lock in a cost-effective premium for the entire term, which makes long-term planning easier and more affordable.

Tax Benefits of a Term Life Policy

In addition to financial protection, a term life policy provides tax savings under the Income Tax Act. Premiums paid can be claimed as deductions, and in most cases, the death benefit paid to nominees is exempt from tax. This dual benefit makes the policy a practical tool for managing both protection and tax efficiency.

Clearing Common Misconceptions

Many people delay buying a term life policy because of misunderstandings. Some assume that if the policy has no maturity benefit, it is of limited value. The fact is, its primary goal is to provide protection, which is invaluable.

Others think the buying process is complex. In reality, online platforms have made it straightforward, with clear terms and transparent comparisons available at your fingertips.

To select the right term life policy, calculate your family’s needs, including living expenses, future education, and outstanding liabilities. Decide the duration for which your family will require support. Then compare policies on their coverage, riders, and premiums. Honesty in declaring your health and lifestyle details is important to avoid claim issues later.

Claims Process and Settlement

The effectiveness of a term life policy is seen during claims. A reliable claim settlement ratio is essential to ensure that nominees receive benefits without delay. Beneficiaries need to provide documents such as the death certificate, identity proof, and the original policy. A smooth claims process provides comfort to the family in difficult times.

A Policy that Protects When it Matters Most

A term life policy is one of the most effective ways to provide financial protection for your family. With its affordable premiums, flexible terms, and significant coverage, it ensures that loved ones are shielded from financial strain in your absence.

This type of policy should be viewed as a financial essential, rather than an optional choice. If you are ready to make this commitment, you can compare options and purchase through trusted online insurance brokers like Jio Insurance Broking Ltd.

Child Care Aware of Missouri Welcomes Community Leaders to Board of Directors

Three new board members bring expertise in law, workforce development and nonprofit leadership.

(St. Louis, Mo., October 9, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently announced the appointment of Ruth Binger, Sarah Kirschner, and Megan Price to its board of directors. Board members are eligible to serve up to three consecutive three-year terms.

Ruth Binger

Ruth Binger is President and Principal Attorney at Danna McKitrick, P.C., a mid-sized law firm, where she has served as a partner for 30 years. As a private practice attorney, she brings deep expertise in legal strategy, business management, and organizational leadership. Binger has been a board member of the Associated Industries of Missouri (AIM) for 23 years and facilitates multiple peer advisory boards for independent business owners.

Sarah Kirschner

Sarah Kirschner recently served as Executive Director of Central Reform Congregation. She brings knowledge of the nonprofit sector and of CCAMO when she previously served as a board member and Board Chair in 2009. Additional prior experience includes leadership positions as Vice President of Human Resources and Vice President of Operations at technology startups, where she oversaw management training, compensation strategy, and recruiting. Kirschner also contributes her time to the community as secretary for MERS/Goodwill and as a board member for the National Council of Jewish Women.

Megan Price

Megan Price is Executive Director of the Missouri Works Initiative, a nonprofit sponsored and supported by the Missouri AFL-CIO. She leads five Apprenticeship Ready Programs that have successfully placed more than 400 individuals into sustainable careers in the skilled trades through Registered Apprenticeships. Price previously served as Chief of Staff in the Missouri State Senate.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ruth, Sarah, and Megan to our board,” said Robin Phillips, CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri. “Each of them brings a wealth of talent and experience that will strengthen our mission to ensure all Missouri families have access to safe, affordable, and high-quality child care.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

Elevate Your Experience with ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar

India, 9th october 2025:This festive season, immerse yourself in luxury and elegance with an exclusive, limited-time offer at ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar, perfect for your holiday. Situated in the heart of Kolkata, the magnificent ITC Royal Bengal, a LEED Platinum-certified marvel, pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage. Meanwhile, ITC Sonar, nestled among lush gardens and serene water bodies adorned with water lilies, showcases artful minimalist architecture and holds both LEED Platinum and LEED Zero Water certifications.

ITC Royal Bengal_

Together, these luxurious destinations offer 693 rooms, suites, and serviced residences, 14 exquisite dining options, 22 event and meeting spaces, and 2 wellness centres, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Club ITC members can enjoy up to 30% savings, while non-members receive up to 20% discounts on flexible rates, including breakfast and offerings in holistic wellness and fine dining. This special is valid until 31st October 2025, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury and comfort throughout your stay.

Shoppers Stop Unveils Its Diwali Collection with Tejasswi Prakash

Pune, 9th October 2025: Shoppers Stop, India’s premium fashion, beauty, and gifting destination, elevated the festive spirit with the grand unveiling of its Diwali Collection at its Phoenix Mall of Millennium, Store in Wakad, Pune. The launch turned into a celebration of style and togetherness with Tejasswi Prakash, one of television’s most loved actress, joining customers for an exclusive meet & greet.

Tejaswi Prakash along with Kavindra Mishra Unveils the Shoppers Stop 'Gifts of Love' Diwali collection

The festive store was transformed into a hub of colour, lights, and excitement, perfectly capturing the joy of Diwali. From stunning festive wear to statement accessories, dazzling jewellery, and beauty essentials, the new Diwali Collection is designed to make every celebration shine.

Kavindra Mishra, Customer Care Associate, Managing Director & CEO at Shoppers Stop, said, Shoppers Stop has always been the ultimate shopping and gifting destination for our customers. This year’s Diwali Collection has been curated with care to bring together premium brands, festive fashion, and thoughtful gifting options for the entire family. We are delighted that actor Tejasswi Prakash unveiled the collection at our Wakad store, adding sparkle to the festive celebrations and making the launch even more special for our customers in Pune and across India.”

Speaking about the launch, Tejasswi Prakash said: “Diwali is my favourite festival because it’s all about lights, laughter, and love. The Shoppers Stop Diwali Collection is exactly what you need to celebrate in style, and their ‘Gifts of Love’ collection makes finding the perfect gift for your loved ones effortless. It’s elegant, trendy, and has something for every occasion. I loved meeting fans and sharing this festive moment with them. It truly felt like a Diwali celebration inside the store!”

The event was full of festive cheer, fans had the chance to interact with Tejasswi. She explored the new collection, shared her favourite picks, and encouraged everyone to embrace their festive style. With over 500+ premium brands and 120,000+ styles, Shoppers Stop ensures that customers can find everything they need under one roof  from ethnic wear and accessories to home décor and fragrances — making it the ultimate destination for festive shopping.

Turning poetry into a space for connection and healing

Journalist-Turned-Poet Garima Mishra’s KavitaKAFE Turns Pune into a Hub of Hindi Poetry and Community Healing

Pune, India, 9 October 2025: Celebrated journalist-turned-poet Garima Mishra is transforming Pune’s cultural landscape with KavitaKAFE, an initiative dedicated to bringing Hindi poetry back into everyday life as a medium of expression, connection, and healing.

Poona Blind School kavitaKAFE

Garima’s bond with Hindi began in her childhood, growing up in a North Indian household immersed in the language’s rhythm and soul. Her journalistic career spanning nearly two decades with The Indian Express earned her recognition for empathetic storytelling, including the Express Excellence Award in 2015. Yet her first love—poetry in Hindi—remained a constant inspiration.

In October 2024, Garima founded KavitaKAFE, envisioning a space where poetry could thrive beyond classrooms and anthologies. Partnering with Monalisa Kalagram, a vibrant community arts hub in Pune, KavitaKAFE has grown into a cultural movement, engaging audiences through sessions like Aarambh, Baatcheet, Kavya-Katha, and Suno-Sunao, which bring together participants from diverse professions and generations.

“KavitaKAFE isn’t just about poetry; it’s about fostering empathy, community, and shared experience,” said Garima Mishra. “Through words, music, and performance, we are connecting people and creating spaces where emotions can be expressed freely.”

Expanding its impact, KavitaKAFE launched Healing Verses in March 2025, an outreach program using poetry and music as therapy. The initiative reaches elderly residents at Vrindavan Old-Age Home, cancer patients at Cipla Palliative Care, visually impaired students at Poona Blind School, geriatric patients at Aaji Care, and disabled soldiers at QMTI, providing emotional support and a sense of connection through artistic expression.

Garima’s poetry has garnered international recognition, featuring on Canadian radio CIUT.FM and in Norway-based bilingual magazine Ghudsavar. She has also judged competitions for All India Radio’s Akashvani, performed at open mics, devotional events, and cultural programs across Pune, and is currently working on her debut Hindi poetry book.

In March 2025, Garima was awarded the Pride of Maharashtra Award for her contributions to arts and society, highlighting her role as a cultural leader committed to Hindi language revival and community engagement.

Looking ahead, KavitaKAFE plans to merge poetry with dance, music, books, and visual arts to create immersive experiences for Pune’s literary and artistic community. The next session, Udaan (उड़ान), is scheduled for 2 November 2025 at Monalisa Kalagram, continuing the mission of keeping Hindi poetry expressive and alive.

Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil Onboards Cricket Icon Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador

Hyderabad, 9th October 2025: Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, one of India’s leading edible oil brands, has signed the legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid as its brand ambassador. Rahul Dravid, popularly known as ‘Mr. Dependable’ for his disciplined lifestyle, a reputation of reliability, and consistency which resonates perfectly with Freedom Oils core values of consistent quality, trust, and dependability.

freedom

Through this association, Rahul Dravid will feature in innovative campaigns across television, digital, and social media, inspiring families to embrace healthier cooking practices using ‘dependable’ Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil. The brand’s philosophy of ‘Eat Healthy and Live Healthy’ aligns seamlessly with Dravid’s belief in diligence, poise, conscious choices, and balance—values that not only shaped his cricketing career but also guide his personal way of life.

Freedom Healthy Cooking Oil and Rahul Dravid both embody what it means to be truly unique and trustworthy—each inspiring millions in their own right. Just as Dravid’s dedication and quiet resolve earned him the nation’s heart, Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil brings that same spirit into every home, promising purity and nourishment with every drop encouraging people to eat healthy and live an active life.

“I have always believed that discipline and mindful habits are the cornerstones of a fulfilling life. Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil brings those values into the kitchen—inspiring people to lead an active and healthy life, without losing out on taste or nourishment. In my own home, ‘Freedom’ has become a trusted part of our meals, encouraging healthier and happier living. What we eat directly shapes how we feel, and I’m proud to partner with a brand that motivates families to eat consciously and enjoy every bite together,” said Rahul Dravid.

Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Gemini Edibles and Fats India Ltd, added: “We are honoured to welcome Rahul Dravid to the Freedom family. His diligence, balance, and consistency mirror the values we uphold as a brand. We provide oils that are nutritious, light, and flavourful — helping families adopt healthier habits. Rahul’s presence will inspire households across the country to embrace mindful cooking, ensuring that everyday meals become a source of joy, balance, and well-being.”

According to Mr. Chetan Pimpalkhute, Head Marketing, Gemini Edibles and Fats India Ltd. “Having Rahul Dravid as the face of Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil is truly special. His dedication, balance, and mindful approach to life perfectly reflect our brand’s philosophy of ‘Eat Healthy and Live Healthy.’ Through this association, we hope to inspire families across India to adopt healthier cooking habits, make conscious choices in the kitchen, and enjoy meals that nourish both body and mind.”

Fujifilm Launches Mirrorless Digital Camera “FUJIFILM X-E5” in India

New Delhi, October 09, 2025 – FUJIFILM Corporation today announced the launch of the “FUJIFILM X-E5” (X-E5) in India. Priced at MRP INR 159,999 (Body only), the X-E5 becomes the latest addition to the X Series, combining outstanding image quality with a compact, and lightweight design.

X-E5_front_XF16-50_black

The X-E5 is a lightweight and compact mirrorless digital camera, weighing approximately 445g*1, equipped with the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR”*2 sensor and the “X-Processor 5” high-speed image processing engine. X-E5 is the first in the camera series that features a powerful five-axis IBIS mechanism offering up to 7.0 stops in the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery*3. This makes it an effortless,” daily carry” that remains adaptable to the most challenging scenarios. For the first time in the X series, the camera features a top-plate crafted solely from machined aluminum. By combining sharp, flat edges with carefully curved surfaces, the top-plate delivers a smooth metallic texture and a high sense of rigidity, offering a premium feel when holding the camera. The new “Classic Display” mode*4 provides a clean viewfinder image with key information at the bottom of the frame. Combined with a body style that allows you to operate the dials and the lever with one hand, you can immerse yourself in image making with the camera to your eye.

Mr. Koji Wada, Managing Director, FUJIFILM India, said, “At FUJIFILM India, we are committed to delivering innovative products and solutions that embody our Group purpose of ‘Giving Our World More Smiles.’ By blending diverse ideas, unique capabilities, and extraordinary people, we aim to create solutions that bring joy and smiles to the world.’ With the launch of the FUJIFILM X-E5, we are bringing the perfect balance of classic design, modern innovation, and accessible performance ensuring that both enthusiasts and professionals can immerse themselves in the joy of photography.”

Mr. Arun Babu, Associate Director and Head of Digital Camera, instax™ and Optical Devices Division, FUJIFILM India, further added, “The FUJIFILM X-E5 is designed to resonate with the evolving needs of Indian photographers who value style, convenience, and uncompromised image quality. Its intuitive operation, elegant design, and immersive features such as the Classic Display mode and customizable film simulations make it a companion that elevates the creative journey. With this launch, we aim to inspire a new wave of creators across India to rediscover the essence of photography.”

The X-E5 retains the classic style of the X series while embodying an innovative design that pursues elegance. It is equipped with features and operability that inspire the joy of photography. Catering to a wide range of users, from photography enthusiasts to those using a digital camera for the first time, this camera offers the delight of owning a sophisticated tool and the excitement of immersing oneself in the world of photography. 

*1 Including battery and memory card

*2 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.

*3 Based on CIPA 2024 standards. Yaw/pitch/roll correction performance when equipped with FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R lens (sold separately) 

*4 Only available on the EVF

Product Features

(1) A product design that embodies a classic yet highly sophisticated presence.For the first time in the X series, the top-plate is carved from a single piece of metal. The distinct tapered design on the rear of the top plate enhances the metallic texture while improving the operability of the dials, ensuring a seamless and comfortable shooting experience.

The newly designed Film Simulation dial features a precision-cut indicator window that minimizes the gap between dial and body for an exact finish. Additionally, you can individually set Film Simulation and image quality settings to the FS1-FS3 positions, allowing you to save your own FS recipes. 

  • Refinement is central to every aspect of X-E5’s design. For example, the viewfinder and diopter adjustment control fit flush with the body. By refining vertical and horizontal elements, the design preserves the essence of a traditional camera while exuding a sophisticated presence. 
  • A stylish rope-type shoulder strap is included. It complements the sophisticated camera design. 

(2) Features and operability that immerse you in the world through the viewfinder

  • Equipped with a retro and minimalist “Classic Display” mode for the EVF, inspired by the old film cameras. The information on the EVF has been simplified as much as possible. Combined with a body style that allows you to operate the dials and the lever with one hand, you can immerse yourself in image making with the camera to your eye. 
  • The X-E5 has a new Surround View function that displays the area outside the shooting range as a semi-transparent or line pattern according to the aspect ratio. While looking through the viewfinder, users can easily switch between these two modes using a lever, providing a shooting experience that is similar to an OVF, even though it is an EVF.
  • A control lever is mounted on the front of the camera, offering customizable functionality such as switching VIEW MODE, changing aspect ratios, and adjusting the digital teleconverter magnification. This ensures exceptional operability and versatility.

(3) Powerful in-body image stabilization and advanced features for expanded creative possibilities

The detection accuracy of the gyro sensor has been improved, and we also adopted a new algorithm that enhances responsiveness to camera shake. Thanks to the latest technologies, the camera realizes 5-axis compensation performance of up to 7.0 stops at the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery. The compact body is equipped with powerful image stabilization, allowing for comfortable shooting across a wide range of scenarios.

  • The camera features a digital teleconverter function that allows 1.4x and 2.0x zoom levels. Equipped with the high-resolution “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR” sensor, it enables zooming with minimal loss of image quality, making it versatile for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
  • The rear tilting monitor can be flipped upward and forward facing up to 180 degrees, which can accommodate a wide variety of compositions, from high to low angle, as well as selfies.
  • The X-E5 is capable of shooting in 6.2K/30P resolution. It features a tracking AF function during video recording, ensuring high-quality and smooth footage.

(4) Equipped with a high-performance sensor and high-speed image processing engine to achieve high image quality and high-performance AF

  • The fifth generation of the X series is equipped with the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR” sensor. The latest image processing algorithms deliver high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio. 
  • Because the improved pixel structure allows more light to be captured efficiently, ISO 125, which was the extended sensitivity in the previous model*5 can be used as the normal sensitivity. In addition, the electronic shutter can be set to a shutter speed of 1/180000 sec. at the fastest, achieving highly precise control of exposure time.
  • The X-E5 features an AI-based subject detection AF, developed using deep learning technology to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones*6
  • The latest AF predictive algorithm provides high tracking performance for moving subjects and high precision AF in low-contrast environments.

UNIQLO x JW ANDERSON Unveil Fall/Winter 2025 Collection with British Charm

New Delhi, October 09, 2025: Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of the 2025 Fall/Winter UNIQLO and JW ANDERSON collection beginning on Friday, October 17th, 2025. This latest collection, inspired by traditional fieldwear, combines design and practicality with classic British style, reimagining winter outfits from a new perspective.

UNIQLO and JW ANDERSON_Key Visuals

Commenting on the collection, designer Jonathan Anderson said, This season’s collection updates the British winter wardrobe with ease of styling and universal playfulness. Along with unique items that are distinctively JW ANDERSON, such as utility jackets and ponchos, new warm colors have been added for our signature jeans and oxford shirts.

Lineup incorporating British outdoor style

The men’s PUFFTECH Utility Jacket features a design inspired by hunting jackets. Men’s corduroy pants with a wide tapered silhouette are accented by a workwear-style front pocket. The women’s poncho has a pleasant feel, and can be used as a blanket, or buttoned to wear as outerwear.

Harmony of functionality and design

The women’s short jacket, made with light, warm, and high-performance PUFFTECH fill, has a cropped length for an on-trend seasonal look. The bicolor herringbone pattern Lambswool Crew Neck Sweater is a genderless item that anyone can enjoy. HEATTECH Socks, a perennial favorite for their coloring and playful designs, are available in a total of five styles and 10 colors.

PVR INOX Brings The Godfather Part II Back to the Big Screen

AFTER A TREMENDOUS RESPONSE TO THE GODFATHER, PVR INOX BRINGS THE ICONIC SEQUEL GODFATHER PART II ON THE BIG SCREEN

India, 9 October 2025:  After the overwhelming audience response to The Godfather’s re-release, PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, is all set to continue the legendary saga with The Godfather Part II, returning to the big screen in a breathtaking 4K restoration in cinemas on Oct 17, 2025 giving movie lovers another chance to relive one of the greatest cinematic masterpieces of all time in theatres. This is a rare opportunity for movie lovers to relive one of the greatest cinematic masterpieces of all time, the way it was meant to be seen in theatres.

Curated shows Godfather_2_Social_with_Bookings open

The re-release of The Godfather (1972) in September saw an exceptional turnout across metros and key cities, with audiences, both loyal fans and first-time viewers celebrating its return to cinemas. Building on this enthusiasm, PVR INOX now brings the next chapter of Francis Ford Coppola’s magnum opus, The Godfather Part II (1974), which further deepens the saga of the Corleone family with a dual narrative spanning generation. 

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on Mario Puzo’s celebrated novel, The Godfather Part II stars Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, and Robert Duvall, and is widely hailed as one of the few sequels that surpass the brilliance of the original. Winner of six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, the film is revered for its sweeping storytelling, powerful performances, and thematic complexity.

Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX Ltd, said, “At PVR INOX, we strive to curate meaningful cinematic experiences. The love audiences showed for The Godfather reaffirms our belief that great cinema will always find its audience. We are thrilled about bringing The Godfather Part II back to cinemas in a stunning 4K print. Through such curated showcases, we aim to bridge nostalgia with discovery  giving every generation the chance to experience cinema at its finest.”

Following The Godfather Part II, PVR INOX will complete the trilogy with the re-release of The Godfather Part III on November 14, 2025, giving audiences a rare chance to witness the complete saga unfold on the big screen in close succession.

Screenings will take place at select premium theatres across India. Booking details and theatre listings will be available soon on the official PVR INOX app and website.

Family Businesses Power Over 70 Percentage of India’s GDP, Finds Great Lakes Study

Chennai, October 9, 2025: A new report released by Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai “Building Entrepreneurial Legacies: Understanding the Role of Family Offices”, reveals that family-owned businesses contribute to nearly 70% of India’s GDP and over 60% of national employment, underscoring their indispensable role in India’s economic growth story.

glim

The report was unveiled at the Family Business Conclave 2025, jointly hosted by Great Lakes Institute of Management and the Madras Management Association (MMA), on the theme “Creating Entrepreneurial Families – The Role of Family Offices.”

The study, authored by Dr Raj Krishnan Shankar, Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship at Great Lakes, highlights how family offices are emerging as critical enablers for governance, legacy planning, and intergenerational entrepreneurship. With India witnessing a rapid rise in private wealth and generational transitions, family offices are increasingly becoming the nerve centres that balance tradition with transformation.

Key findings from the report include:

  • Family-owned businesses contribute 70% of India’s GDP, with projections suggesting this could rise to 80–85% by 2047.
  • Family enterprises account for over 60% of national employment, particularly within MSMEs.
  • India’s top 300 business families hold a combined net worth of ₹134 lakh crore (US$1.6 trillion), employing over two million people.
  • The number of organised family offices in India could cross 1,000 by the next decade, reflecting the increasing need for structured wealth and succession management.

Said Dr Raj Krishnan Shankar, Lead Author of the report and Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship at Great Lakes Institute of Management: “Family businesses are the invisible backbone of India’s economy. They don’t just create wealth, they create continuity. As India’s business families collectively manage over a trillion dollars in private wealth, the real challenge is no longer growth, but governance. That’s where family offices come in, as strategic engines that preserve values, professionalise decision-making, and ensure that entrepreneurship doesn’t fade with succession but strengthens through it.”

The conclave featured Mr C.K. Ranganathan, Chairman & Managing Director, CavinKare, who delivered a powerful keynote address on creating entrepreneurial legacies. Drawing from his own experience, he emphasised that meritocracy must triumph over hierarchy in family-run businesses and that the value of money must be deeply understood, not merely enjoyed.

Said Mr C.K Ranganathan: “Money is a responsibility, not just a privilege.” He added: “Business acumen is about common sense, emotional intelligence, and sound math. Success matters, but learning matters more, because when families handhold too much, they take away the opportunity to learn. The real mantra is simple: fail fast, fail cheap, and keep learning.”

The conclave also hosted dynamic discussions with leaders from Mehta Hospitals, TSM Group, Sargam Metals, and Maya Appliances, among others, who shared their perspectives on succession planning, governance frameworks, and preparing the next generation to lead with purpose and accountability.

Said Sam Mehta, Director of Mehta Hospitals, sharing his perspective on evolving family business structures: “A family business is about stewardship, not just ownership. A family office isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for structure and longevity. You must prove yourself outside the family name, bring that experience back, and earn credibility as both an entrepreneur and an investor.”

Said Yash Merchant, Director – Brand Marketing & Alumni Relations, Great Lakes Institute of Management, in closing remarks: “At Great Lakes, we are building a community of family business owners and next-gen leaders through research, dialogue, and education. The goal is to help families professionalise, innovate, and stay entrepreneurial across generations.”

The event featured the launch of the Great Lakes Insight Dossier and engaging discussions on succession planning, family constitutions, and the evolving role of the next generation in business leadership.