Archives May 2025

Bengaluru, May 29, 2025: TVS Motor Company, one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of two and three-wheelers, today announced the launch of the TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SmartXonnect™ (SXC), the latest variant in the successful TVS Jupiter line-up. Built to deliver Zyada – more style, more features, and more value, the new scooter stays true to the brand’s promise of “Har 125cc Scooter Se Zyada.”

With its progressive neo-masculine design and segment-first features, the TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SXC caters to today’s riders who expect their everyday commute to reflect their aspirations. It also debuts two eye-catching dual-tone colour options; Ivory- Brown and Ivory Grey, that perfectly complement the premium sensibilities of urban India.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President — Head Commuter & EV Business and Head Corporate Brand & Media, TVS Motor Company, said, “Today’s customers are not just buying a scooter, they are investing in a reflection of their progressiveness. After the successful launch of TVS Jupiter 110, it made perfect sense to give the TVS Jupiter 125 a fresh update. The TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SXC represents that evolution, delivering an optimum mix of performance, comfort, and advanced connectivity. With this launch, we reinforce our ‘Zyada’ philosophy,  giving our riders more of everything that matters.”

Key features:

• Progressive Styling: Dual-tone body panels, newly designed seat, signature LED headlamp and diamond-cut alloy wheels
• More Pick-Up, More Mileage: Equipped with a refined 124.8 cc single-cylinder engine, it delivers a class-leading 11.1 Nm torque @ 4,500 rpm with iGO Assist technology — offering more pickup without compromising fuel efficiency.
• Unmatched Comfort: Features the longest seat in the segment with a pillion backrest, ensuring exceptional comfort for both rider and passenger.
• Best-in-Class Convenience:

o   33L under-seat storage (largest in segment) — fits two helmets

o   Front fuel-fill for easy refuelling

o   2L front open glove box for accessible storage

• Superior Build: The Metal Maxx body with extensive metal panels gives the scooter increased durability and maximizing safety for the riders.
• Smart Digital Console: The fully digital reverse LCD cluster displays:

o   Call and SMS alerts

o   Real-time and average mileage indicators

o   Low fuel warning, trip meter, and more

• Bigger Front and Rear Tyres: Enhanced stability and superior road grip for a confident ride, even on uneven terrain.

The TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SmartXonnect™ (SXC) isn’t just a scooter — it’s a smart, stylish, and practical upgrade for riders who want to do more and go further. From everyday usability to standout design and smart tech, it ticks every box for today’s urban commuter. The new variant introduction makes the Jupiter line up stronger with compelling features which are best in the 125cc segment scooters taking the Zyada Philosophy forward.

Kolkata, 29 May 2025:  As part of its centenary celebrations, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) convened a distinguished panel of eminent national figures for a thought-provoking discussion on “Global & Regional Geo-Politics, Security & Economics – In a World of Uncertainty”. Held at a time of mounting geopolitical flux and regional recalibrations, the session brought into sharp focus the underlying continuities and transformative shifts shaping global governance and security dynamics.

The event featured an illustrious lineup of speakers, including Mr. M.K. Narayanan, Former National Security Advisor of India and Former Governor of West Bengal; Mr. Manish Tewari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament; Arup Raha, Former Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force and President, CENERS-K; Mr. Ashok Kantha, Former Ambassador of India to China; Dr. Swapan Dasgupta, Former Member of Parliament; and Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General of the Indian Chamber of Commerce.

In an incisive opening, Mr. Manish Tewari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, discussed the enduring nature of state sovereignty in global affairs, arguing that while technological and economic forces may hasten international change, they do not supplant the centrality of national interests. “India faces a complex strategic environment in South Asia,” he noted, “with a persistently antagonistic Pakistan to the west, an increasingly assertive China to the north, an unpredictable Bangladesh to the east, and smaller neighbours attempting to navigate a delicate balance between New Delhi and Beijing.”

Tewari emphasized that this strategic geography necessitates a response rooted in realism: “These challenges strike at the heart of India’s regional doctrine and demand a response grounded in pragmatism and strategic clarity. The operations conducted from 7 to 10 May 2025 serve as a clear affirmation of India’s resolve to act in its own best interest in the face of evolving security imperatives.”

Former National Security Advisor Mr. M.K. Narayanan highlighted upon the contemporary global order, describing it as a “shambolic disorder” marked by the erosion of the much-vaunted rules-based international system. “Uncertainty is the only enduring constant,” Narayanan warned, pointing to the waning influence and moral authority of the United States, particularly under former President Trump, whose tenure saw a retreat into isolationism and transactional diplomacy.

Reflecting on India’s nuclear posture, Narayanan lauded the country’s principled adherence to its ‘No First Use’ nuclear doctrine, while issuing a stark warning: “Any nuclear confrontation with Pakistan would be catastrophic, unleashing devastation on a scale that would transcend borders and generations.” Drawing on his own experience leading India’s nuclear negotiations with the United States, he underscored the gravity of such scenarios.

Turning to the regional balance of power, Narayanan observed that China, propelled by civilisational imperatives, engages in “calibrated provocation rather than overt hostility,” calling for a diplomatic strategy that blends “resolve, prudence, and confidence in the depth of our civilisational ethos.” He highlighted the vulnerabilities in India’s neighbourhood – from internal instability in Nepal and Sri Lanka, to the complex socio-political dynamics in Bangladesh, and the ongoing fallout of foreign intervention in Afghanistan, now under Taliban rule.

In a sobering analysis of modern warfare, Narayanan emphasized that the very nature of conflict is being reshaped by the emergence of cyber capabilities and artificial intelligence. Drawing parallels with the conflict in Ukraine, he remarked: “Cyber operations can inflict disruption comparable to, if not exceeding, conventional arms.” He called for a rethinking of military doctrines and ethical frameworks in an era where “algorithms and autonomous systems govern warfare.”

Echoing timeless philosophical reflections, Narayanan concluded with a poignant citation from the Isha Upanishad: “Into a dark darkness enter those who dwell in ignorance; into a darker darkness enter those who worship knowledge.” He emphasized that this ancient insight is a necessary caution against “the uncritical veneration of knowledge devoid of wisdom.”

In his welcome address, Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to fostering high-level dialogue on critical national and international issues.

Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha (Retd.), Mr. Ashok Kantha, and Dr. Swapan Dasgupta also contributed to the broader deliberation, offering nuanced perspectives on India’s strategic autonomy, regional diplomacy, and the interplay between ideology and geopolitics.

National 29 May 2025: The latest research from International Workplace Group reveals nine out of 10 CEOs and CFOs are concerned about the business impact of macroeconomic instability. As a result, they are turning to hybrid working, empowering their people to work from a combination of locations as a strategy to safeguard their businesses, reduce costs, and enhance operational resilience. A new survey of CEOs and CFOs, conducted by IWG, the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace solutions, reveals that 86% are implementing proactive financial measures to protect their companies. The findings highlight a clear trend toward adopting more flexible work arrangements, as four in five (83%) say hybrid work plays a crucial role in their cost-saving strategies, helping to mitigate the current economic turbulence.

Executives say this model has improved operational resilience, enabling them to significantly reduce overhead costs, such as office space, utilities, and expenses (77%), freeing up resources for reinvestment in other areas of the business or creating a buffer against unpredictable costs and future market fluctuations. 74% of CEOs and CFOs also say the model has enabled them to explore new business locations, offering greater flexibility and potential for growth and 83% report a noticeable boost in employee productivity. The multiple benefits mean 79% are exploring additional flexible workspaces to help manage economic uncertainty.

While more than two thirds (67%) are scaling back or planning to reduce operating costs amid economic instability, they are not losing sight of one of their most important assets, their people. Many CEOs say productivity (37%), employee wellbeing (23%) and strengthening long-term talent retention (17%) are essential during challenging economic times.

As part of this focus on talent, 88% of business leaders say hybrid working boosts employee satisfaction, making it a strategic focus for future recruitment.

Mark Dixon, CEO and Founder of International Workplace Group, said: “In times of economic volatility, CEOs are carefully evaluating how to navigate uncertainty while driving efficiency and growth for their business. They recognise that flexibility is not only crucial when it comes to safeguarding their operations but also enhancing the productivity of their teams. By empowering their teams to work closer to home in local workspaces and offices, companies operating in the hybrid model are able to significantly reduce their costs and improve the work-life balance of their people.”

Harsh Lambah, Country Manager – India of International Workplace Group, said: “India is seeing strong demand for hybrid work models, especially from businesses looking to streamline operations and access top talent across regions. At IWG, we are proud to support thousands of companies in India through our rapidly growing network of flexible workspaces. Our workspaces enable teams to work productively and efficiently with new age technology, while helping companies achieve cost-efficiency and scale sustainably. Hybrid working is no longer a trend – it’s a long-term strategic solution for modern businesses across the country.”

Canada’s healthcare system, once a model of universal care, is now grappling with severe challenges. Over 6.5 million Canadians lack a family doctor, and non-emergency procedures face indefinite delays. This crisis has compelled many Canadians to seek medical treatments abroad, turning to countries like Mexico, Germany, and India to bypass domestic healthcare gridlocks.

For instance, Patients from Toronto have to wait around 8 months to see a back-ache specialist, only to be rejected without consultation.This trend isn’t isolated to Canada. Patients from the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe are increasingly seeking medical care abroad due to long wait times and overburdened systems.  In the UK, approximately 348,000 residents travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2022, a significant increase from previous years. Similarly, an estimated 57% of Australians travel abroad annually for medical procedures.

India, in particular, has emerged as a preferred destination, offering a combination of affordability, quality care, and minimal waiting periods.

India’s Ascendancy in Medical Tourism

India’s medical tourism sector is experiencing exponential growth. Valued at approximately USD 8.71 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 16.21 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 13.23% during the forecast period (2025-2030). Several factors contribute to this surge:([medicalbuyer.co.in][1])

Cost-Effective Treatments: Medical procedures in India are significantly affordable than in Western countries. For example, as per a NITI Aayog report, the average cost of a knee replacement procedure for foreign patients in India is around $6,600, which is less than half of the cost in Thailand, $14,000.

High-Quality Care: India boasts over 1,600 NABH-accredited hospitals and numerous JCI-accredited facilities, ensuring international standards of care.

Government Initiatives: The ‘Heal in India’ campaign and the extension of e-medical visas to nationals of 167 countries have streamlined the process for international patients seeking treatment in India.

Diverse Medical Services: India offers a wide range of treatments, from advanced cardiac and orthopaedic surgeries to holistic therapies like Ayurveda and Yoga, catering to a global clientele seeking holistic care. “Amid a growing global healthcare exodus, India is emerging as a trusted epicenter for affordable, high-quality medical care. What sets India apart is not just its world-class clinical expertise, but also its strategic accessibility—direct air routes from key markets like the U.S., UK, Middle East, and Africa—and a culturally familiar, English-speaking medical workforce that inspires patient confidence.

In 2024, India issued over 463,000 medical visas, and its medical tourism market was valued at approximately $8.19 billion, underscoring its growing appeal as a destination for quality and affordable healthcare, and is projected to reach $27.18 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust CAGR of 16.18% . As the global demand for timely, high-quality, and cost-effective medical solutions surges, Global Care Health stands at the forefront of this transformation. With a presence in over 75 countries, including Asia, the Middle East, CIS, Africa, and the Caribbean, we specialize in creating seamless clinical pathways that connect international patients to India’s top-tier hospitals, many of which are JCI, AACI and NABH accredited. Our comprehensive services encompass pre-travel treatment planning, visa facilitation, interpreter assistance, 24/7 guest relations, and post-operative care. As global demand for timely, high-quality, and affordable healthcare surges, GlobalCare Health remains committed to bridging healthcare gaps and delivering exceptional patient experiences.” Shared Rajeev Taneja, Founder and CEO, GlobalCare Health.

“Medical Linkers has been at the forefront of facilitating medical journeys for patients worldwide. India’s healthcare landscape has transformed remarkably, with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach. We’ve assisted numerous Canadians and others from developed nations who, facing prolonged wait times at home, found prompt and effective treatments in India.  We are currently facilitating an innovative non-invasive Parkinson’s treatment in India with Cyberknife, which is available only in India for now. The positive outcomes and patient satisfaction that India offers reinforce our position as a global healthcare hub.” Sonam Garg Sharma, Medical Linkers.

The strain on healthcare systems in countries like Canada has inadvertently spotlighted the efficiency and effectiveness of medical tourism destinations like India. With its blend of affordability, quality, and comprehensive care, India is not just addressing the immediate needs of international patients but is also setting a benchmark for global healthcare solutions.

“Beta, ek ghar toh apna hona chahiye…” – a phrase every Indian has heard growing up, echoing through generations, across dining tables and WhatsApp family groups. Owning real estate is not just an aspiration in India — it is woven deep into our cultural, emotional, and even spiritual fabric.

What lies behind this deeply embedded love affair with property? We can partially decode it through anecdotal examples, data, and a look into the Indian psyche.

Legacy Over Liquidity: Property as a Multigenerational Asset

In many Indian households, a home is the only tangible inheritance passed down through generations. We often hear stories of ancestral homes that have stood for over a century, becoming a family’s identity.

In Kolkata’s Shobha Bazar, a 120-year-old mansion still houses five generations under its roof. It has weathered Partition, political upheavals, and latter-day redevelopment offers, but the owners refuse to part with it. “This home is our history,” the octogenarian matriarch says.

According to 2023 ANAROCK report, 68% of Indian homebuyers are end-users, and a whopping 80% plan to pass on their property to their children. Unlike supply/demand and pricing, such data does not tend to change – it represents the psyche, not the market. It reaffirms that in India, real estate is not just about investment but also about legacy.

Culturally Conditioned — “Rent is Rinse Money”

In Western economies, renting is often seen as practical and flexible. In India? Not so much. To many, paying rent is akin to feeding a black hole — money is exiting pockets without building any equity. On the other hand, property is seen as a store of value.

A 2022 RBI survey on household finances revealed that real estate comprises nearly 77% of total household wealth in India, compared to just 35% in the US.

A 30-something IT professional in Pune, despite having access to good company housing, chose to purchase a INR 1 crore apartment. “Renting feels like bleeding money every month,” he says. “At least, EMI gives me ownership.”

The ‘Indian Mindset’ of Safety: Real Estate as a Hedge

Stock markets? Risky. Mutual funds? Volatile. Crypto? “Beta, gambling mat kar.”

Despite being illiquid and slow to appreciate in some areas, real estate is seen as safe, tangible, and immune to overnight collapse. During the 2008 global financial crisis when property markets in the West plummeted, India’s top 7 cities saw only a marginal dip and prices largely held firm due to low system leverage and strong end-user demand.

Even during COVID-19, Indian real estate demonstrated remarkable resilience. By 2023, the sector had bounced back and witnessed record-high launches and sales, with over 4.76 lakh units sold across the top cities.

In the West, buying property is largely a ‘head’, not a ‘heart’ thing. People buy it when ‘it makes sense’. In India, not buying property when you can – and sometimes even when you can’t – makes no sense. Indians buy property ‘from the heart’ and apply their full minds to make it happen.

It doesn’t matter if others don’t get it. “We are like that only” – and will always be.

Tax Incentives and EMI Culture: Government’s Subtle Nudge

Over the years, the government has consistently incentivised homeownership. Subtly, and intelligently – no seductively low lending rates that suddenly turn savage (read sub-prime crisis) here.

• Section 80C and 24(b) tax benefits for home loans on principal and interest repayment.
• PMAY and stamp duty rebates for first-time buyers in various states.
• Enhanced interest deduction under Section 24(b) – Union Budget 2025 raise this to INR 3 lakh from INR 2 lakh for self-occupied homes.
• Interest subsidies under PMAY-CLSS ranging between 3-6.5% for various income levels on home loans up to specified limits.
• 1% GST on under-construction affordable homes, as opposed to 5% on others

Some states also provide first-time buyers relief of stamp duty and registration fees. These incentives lower the cost of and encourage homeownership. Combined with the emotional push from parents and easy access to home loans, buying becomes the default choice.

Renting is for those who are getting ready to buy. After COVID-19, even die-hard renting millennials with a ‘Western mindset’ hangover, have become convinced buyers. According to SBI’s 2023 home loan portfolio, over 70% of their retail lending is to salaried individuals aged 30–45, often first-time homeowners.

The Social Status and the “Log Kya Kahenge?” Factor

Let’s be honest. In India, owning a home is also about perceived stability and social standing. Whether arranged marriage matchmaking or Diwali card parties, “Do you own your place?” is more than a casual question — it is a character certificate.

In Delhi NCR, a marketing manager candidly admitted, “When I was on matrimonial sites, I noticed matches improved once I put ‘owns a 2BHK in Gurgaon’ on my profile.”

Urbanisation and the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

India is urbanising like there’s no tomorrow – nearly 42% of the population is expected to live in urban areas by 2035, from 34% in 2022. Property prices are tracking this trend, on steroids. With this comes a deep-seated fear – if I don’t buy now, I may never be able to afford it.

According to ANAROCK Research, the average ticket size in Mumbai increased from INR 1.5 crore in 2020 to INR 2.15 crore in 2024. The thought of being ‘priced out’ spurs younger buyers into early action, even if it means stretching finances.

Real Estate as a Second Income

Unlike earlier generations, modern Indians don’t just buy to live — they buy to earn. From co-living spaces to short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb and Stanza Living, property is an income generator today.

Fractional ownership in commercial real estate is booming among HNIs and NRIs eyeing INR 10–25 lakh investments that can yield 8–10% annual returns. Platforms like Strata and hBits are seeing exponential growth.

Not Just Bricks and Mortar

The quintessential Indian love affair with real estate is an emotional investment cloaked in rationality. It is about stability, status, security, and sometimes, just a sense of having ‘arrived’ in life.

To paraphrase the slogan of a Mumbai-based architect, we don’t buy homes in India. We write our stories – one EMI at a time.

If there is one thing Bengaluru is known for, it is a deep and unwavering love for breakfast. From crispy dosas with steaming filter coffee to decadent spreads, the city celebrates its morning rituals with flair. Embracing this love for all things breakfast, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru introduces a delicious new weekend ritual: Saturdays, All Day Breakfast, Curated by CUR8.

This innovative concept blends global gourmet with beloved local street-style flavours, all within the vibrant setting of CUR8, the hotel’s renowned all-day dining restaurant. Designed for those who believe breakfast should never end, the experience starts bright and early at 10:30 am and runs until 3:00 PM every Saturday, making it a must-try destination over the weekend. 

A Curated Culinary Experience
What sets it apart is the thoughtful transition of the menu: while early hours focus on quintessential breakfast dishes, the spread evolves into a more robust mid-day selection from 10:30 AM onwards. On offer are live stations, compound salads, warm mains, and a well-stocked mocktail and smoothie bar, ensuring there’s something for everyone, no matter the hour. 

Vibrant Entertainment & Art
From 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, live entertainment adds to the vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. The lively sounds complement the aromas drifting from the kitchen, creating a sensory feast. In addition, CUR8 becomes a living gallery with a rotating exhibition series celebrating local artists, offering guests the chance to browse and purchase unique pieces. This seamless blend of culinary and cultural indulgence creates a one-of-a-kind experience.

Moments to Remember
Adding a personal, interactive layer to the experience, guests are invited to participate in hands-on cooking classes and chef-led demos. Whether it’s cupcake decorating, pizza making, or learning how to craft signature South Indian breakfast dishes, Four Seasons’ expert culinary team will guide guests through every step. To elevate the experience, guests will receive personalized aprons, signed chef caps, and recipe cards, making each visit a memorable one.

New Delhi, 29 May 2025: As major palm oil exporting countries incentivise the exports of refined palm oil, there has been an unprecedented surge in refined palm oil imports to India in the past five month posing a serious risk to not just the refining industry with underutilisation and job losses but also farmers and consumers with lower farmgate price of oilseeds.

Accordingly, IVPA has urged the government to raise the net effective duty differential between crude and refined edible oils to 20% from the current 8.25%. The existing differential is being effectively nullified due to higher export levies and taxes imposed by exporting countries on crude palm oil, while refined palm oil and its derivatives are subsided by way of lower export duties than crude oils.

This has led to an influx of refined palm oils there by leading to underutilization of India’s refining capacity in the refining and allied sectors.

According to import data, India imported 8.24 lakh MT of RBD Palmolein between October 2024-February 2025, up 80% from 4.58 lakh MT of RBD Palmolein imported between June-September 2024.

Imports of refined palm oil surged from 4.58 lakh MT (accounting for 14% of total palm oil imports) during June–September 2024 to 8.24 lakh MT (representing about 30 % of total palm oil imports) in the period October 2024–February 2025. The imports of refined products  at about Rs1- Rs 2 per litre helped  only the traders and the distribution channel but the benefit to the consumers is almost negligible. However it has huge destabilising  effect on the Industry negatively affecting  the Capacity Utilisation in the country.

“By levying high export duties and taxes on crude palm oil (CPO) and imposing lower or zero duties on refined palm olein (RPO), palm oil exporting countries are  incentivize the export of finished goods and discourage value addition in  India.”

“Higher domestic refining will result in greater availability of by-products like PFAD and Palm Stearin, increased raw material supply for ancillary sectors such as bakery,  oleochemicals, soap industry etc.

Currently, refined edible oils are exempt from the Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC), while a 5% AIDC is applied to crude oils, effectively narrowing the duty differential to from 12.5% to just 8.25%. To address this imbalance, IVPA has recommended levying a 10–15% AIDC on refined oils to ensure a level playing field and encourage domestic refining and processing of crude palm oil.

 The association has also requested the government to place refined edible oils under the “Restricted List” as done in the past when such a surge in finished product was witnessed.  Such a move would help regulate the import volumes of refined products.

Such policy corrections will result in a healthy refining sector which supports consistent oilseed demand and fair farmgate prices, secures thousands of direct and indirect jobs in this 3 lakh crore Industry.

MUMBAI, INDIA 29th May 2025— As the demand for immersive environments grows across live events, touring, retail, hospitality and corporate sectors, HARMAN Professional Solutions is leading the way with a new generation of integrated audio technologies showcased at PALM Expo 2025.

At the heart of this innovation is the HARMAN Live Arena, where the synergy between JBL Professional, Martin Professional and FLUX:: technologies are on full display. Following HARMAN’s acquisition of FLUX:: in late 2023, the brands have united to offer audio professionals a complete end-to-end workflow, from design and control to monitoring and analysis, all under one ecosystem.

“The future of audio and lighting is immersive, but it’s not just about technology. It’s about creating compelling, emotionally resonant experiences,” said Amar Subash, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “Our Live Arena showcases how HARMAN Professional brings that vision to life through the synergy of JBL Professional and FLUX::.”

Throughout PALM Expo 2025, the HARMAN Live Arena is hosting daily demonstrations of FLUX:: SPAT Revolution in combination with MiRA, the brand-new visualization and analyzer software developed to provide unprecedented insight into spatial workflows. Together, they empower visualizers to design, deploy and refine immersive systems with ease and precision.

MiRA, being launched in India during PALM Expo, offers full customization and has already been adopted by top sound engineers worldwide. With MiRA, HARMAN Professional now stands as the only manufacturer offering a true end-to-end ecosystem with Design (Venue Synthesis), Control, Monitoring (Performer) and Analysis (MiRA) software packages.

Each day of the expo features live performances from some of India’s most innovative artists, all powered by HARMAN’s state-of-the-art audio and lighting ecosystem. Highlights include Bombay Bandook, The Indian Choral Ensemble, Wild Wild Women, and a collaborative live set by Viveick Rajagopalan and Anantha Krishnan. All performances utilize FLUX:: SPAT Revolution for real-time spatial rendering, complimented by dynamic Martin Professional lighting fixtures.

Beyond software, HARMAN is also introducing major product innovations at its booth, including the Martin MAC Aura Raven XIP. As the newest fixture in the MAC Aura line, it delivers 27,000 lumens of optical power with a massive 343 mm lens, RGBL light engine, and advanced connectivity options. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it’s ideal for rental and fixed installations in broadcast, theater and festivals.

Another product innovation on display at PALM Expo is the JBL PRX935 and PRX925, the next generation of portable PA systems featuring advanced DSP and premium acoustics. The PRX935 is a three-way 15-inch system built for vocal clarity and midrange presence, while the dual 15-inch PRX925 delivers powerful low-end and high SPL for large spaces and outdoor venues.

“We’re not just showcasing gear,” added Subash. “We’re demonstrating how a fully integrated ecosystem, from loudspeakers and lighting to software and analytics, can transform how people experience live and interactive environments.”

Visitors to the HARMAN Live Arena can witness how these innovations converge to elevate audio and lighting workflows and create captivating real-world applications. Whether in live touring, permanent installation, or experiential design, HARMAN’s technologies are reshaping the future of storytelling through sound, light and space.

New Delhi, May 29th, 2025: In a landmark step towards empowering Indians with crucial financial education and retirement planning awareness, FPSB India, the Indian subsidiary of Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd., and the NPS Trust (National Pension System Trust) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on nationwide financial education and retirement planning outreach programs.

The collaboration will include joint campaigns, co-branded learning resources, webinars, and capacity-building efforts aimed to educate individuals, employers, and financial intermediaries on how to better plan one’s retirement. The initiative aligns with the larger vision of strengthening long-term financial security and empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions throughout their life stages. This collaboration aims to emphasize the importance of planning one’s second innings to ensure a fulfilling post-retirement lifestyle – one that is rich in exploration, purpose, and new experiences.

Speaking about the MoU signing Krishan Mishra, CEO, FPSB India said, “At FPSB India, we believe that financial education is not just a life skill—it is a life changer. This MoU with NPS Trust is a powerful opportunity to integrate retirement planning as a central theme of personal finance education and reach diverse segments of society with credible, action-oriented guidance.” 

This strategic partnership aims to enhance the public’s understanding of retirement planning and personal finance, especially among institutions, enterprises, government bodies, and the general public. The MoU marks a crucial milestone in India’s journey toward building a financially resilient and retirement-ready population.

The MoU reinforces the commitment of both organizations to the Government of India’s vision of financial inclusion and Viksit Bharat by providing the tools, resources, and knowledge to plan and secure one’s financial future.

Key initiatives under this collaboration include:

• Joint Awareness Campaigns on NPS, NPS Vatsalya, APY, and other PFRDA-regulated schemes via seminars, digital outreach, and workshops.
• Targeted Outreach to institutions, enterprises, government bodies, and the general public to promote retirement planning awareness.
• Information Exchange & Research Collaboration to develop high-quality, relevant financial education content.

As the collaboration unfolds, both FPSB India and NPS Trust are committed to delivering impactful programs that not only raise awareness but also build confidence and actionable knowledge among citizens about financial planning, retirement solutions, and long-term wealth creation.

India May 29, 2025: India – BASF India has launched two of its latest global crop protection solutions, Valexio® Insecticide and Mibelya® Fungicide, that will serve India’s most important food crop – rice. The introduction of these two innovations will support India’s national food security agenda. These solutions will help rice growers boost their rice yields as they help manage rice hoppers, a key rice pest, and control diseases such as sheath blight control. 

With annual production of more than 100 million metric tons, India is the second-largest producer of rice in the world, contributing significantly to around 40 percent of global rice trade. The impact of climate change has affected rice growers in India badly, with erratic weather condition resulting in droughts, diseases, and the proliferation of hoppers that results in lower and poorer quality yields. 

“Valexio® is BASF’s latest insecticide and marks a pivotal moment, not only for rice growers in Asia Pacific, but for our long-term commitment to the Rice Crop System in the region. We are very excited to be able to launch it first in India because we know how rice growers are in need for new chemistry to support their pest management,” says Marko Grozdanovic, Senior Vice President, Global Strategic Marketing & Sustainability at BASF Agricultural Solutions. “The active ingredient has no known cross-resistance to market standards, and provides outstanding efficacy and long residual control against all damaging life stages of the rice hopper species.”

Studies conducted have demonstrated that Valexio® also fortifies rice plants with superior plant health benefits. Valexio® -treated rice plots show a stronger stem, a denser canopy, enhanced root mass and broader flag leaves resulting in a more protected plant with potential to deliver higher yield for rice growers.

With the coming monsoon season, rice growers also need the latest chemistry to ensure greater selectivity and high efficacy in disease management. Mibelya® is powered by BASF’s latest fungicide active ingredient Revysol® and its other patented active ingredient Xemium®. Rice growers will now have the latest chemistry – a dual mode of action, that acts faster, protects deeper and provides long duration control on sheath blight and dirty panicle of rice.

Simone Barg, Senior Vice President, BASF Agricultural Solutions, Asia-Pacific says: “Rice is not only a key crop for India, it is for the millions of farmers throughout Asia. Today’s launch of Valexio® and Mibelya® represents an unprecedented victory for farmers and sustainable agriculture. With our innovations, we can effectively address pests and diseases impacting growers and ensure farming communities stay ahead with superior benefits of resistance management and favorable profile, designed to meet the highest level of regulatory standards.”

“I am excited and very proud to be able to witness this day. Two of the latest BASF innovations are available for rice growers in India, and this is important to me because in my interactions across India, farmers would ask me ‘how can you help me secure or increase my yield?’ With Valexio® Insecticide and Mibelya® Fungicide, my team and I will work extensively to ensure that rice growers are able to get access to the innovations, as I know that these will help them improve the quality and yields this year,” says Giridhar Ranuva, Business Director, Agricultural Solutions, BASF India. “Additionally, we would like to appreciate the relevant authorities, scientific community and those in agriculture who are working alongside us to support farmers do the biggest job on Earth.” 

Valexio® and Mibelya® will be available effective June onwards and in time to support rice growers as they commence the rice transplanting for this season.