Archives 2025

Aranya Sahay’s feature Humans in the Loop has been awarded the Film Independent Sloan Distribution Grant, as the film officially qualifies for Academy Awards consideration.

The Sloan Distribution Grant, given by Film Independent and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, supports narrative features that engage meaningfully with science or technology themes or characters, helping to reach wider audiences through strategic release support. Over the past two decades, the Sloan Film program has backed more than 850 screenplays, short films and feature films, including The Imitation Game, Hidden Figures, The Man Who Knew Infinity, and Oppenheimer. The grant makes Aranya Sahay and Mathivanan Rajendran Film Independent Fellows.

Humans in the Loop tells the story of an Indigenous woman working at a rural data-annotation centre in India. The film examines the ethics and inequities of machine learning while foregrounding empathy, lived experience, and cultural knowledge.

“We are at a cusp with artificial intelligence, and humanity needs to take responsibility for the kind of AI and the kind of future we are building. I’m deeply grateful to Film Independent and the Sloan Foundation for allowing us to take this conversation across the US. Humans in the Loop is about the human heartbeat inside technology, and this grant recognises the people whose labour and stories often remain unseen.” said Aranya Sahay, Writer- Director.

“Through Humans in the Loop and our work at the Museum of Imagined Futures, we’ve been creating space for technologists and creatives to rethink how stories about technology are told,” added Mathivanan Rajendran, Producer. “The Sloan Foundation’s support and now the film’s entry into the Oscar race are a validation of Aranya’s screenplay that creatives can help shape the future of tech” He added.

“We are proud to help bring awareness in the US about Humans in the Loop through the Sloan Distribution Grant,” said Dea Vazquez, Associate Director of Fiction Programs at Film Independent. “The film’s rigorous and deeply human approach to exploring AI and the role of technology in our lives perfectly reflects the mission of the grant.”

Earlier this month, the producers onboarded Misaq Kazimi as Executive Producer to lead the film’s US distribution strategy, which the grant will support further. “It is no surprise that Humans in the Loop has received this prestigious grant from a preeminent US film institution, as the film is both timely and relevant globally,” said Kazimi. “We have already begun our impact screenings, hosting a weeklong theatrical showcase in Los Angeles and at UCLA, bringing together filmmakers, academia, and technologists to have interconnected discourse on the film’s pivotal question of how AI is handled by humanity. These conversation-sparker screenings will continue, and anyone interested in the film’s themes are invited to help us bring the film to their city.”

Following its U.S. theatrical release and meeting other eligibility criteria, Humans in the Loop has officially qualified to be a contender for the 98th Academy Awards, where it will compete to be in the Best Original Screenplay category.

Goa, Nov, 17th:- InstiFI, a Goa-based payment aggregator enabling secure and seamless digital payments, has been officially launched after receiving final authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This milestone makes InstiFI the only company from Goa to operate as a payment aggregator, marking a significant step in advancing the state’s digital economy.

InstiFI offers a comprehensive suite of digital payment solutions, including credit/debit card processing, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services, net banking, and virtual accounts. Built on an API-driven, compliance-first infrastructure, the platform ensures secure, efficient, and seamless transactions for businesses across India. What distinguishes InstiFI is its human-first customer support model, prioritising real-time, human-to-human assistance over bots. This approach has helped the company build reliability among merchants while ensuring rapid issue resolution and operational transparency.

InstiFI’s target audience spans small and medium businesses (SMBs) across India, including those in urban centres that require scalable payment infrastructure and merchants in rural or underserved regions.

Prakash Ravindran, CEO and Director, InstiFI, said; “Going live as a licensed payment aggregator is the beginning of what we envision for InstiFI. Our goal is to build a trusted digital payments ecosystem that simplifies transactions for businesses of all sizes. Going forward, we aim to onboard more than 500 merchants, expand our payment gateway capabilities, and introduce innovative features that enhance speed, security, and compliance. This milestone reinforces our vision of positioning InstiFI as India’s Gateway of Trust, a partner that empowers businesses.”

Along with Prakash Ravindran, the leadership team at InstiFI comprises industry experts like Mohit Aggarwal (Co-founder), Anushree Chandra (CBO and Director), Arbaaz Jamal (COO and Director), and Faisal Nomani (Director). Together, they bring extensive expertise in digital finance, technology, and compliance management.

Pune, Nov 17th:  Conrad Pune is delighted to announce the appointments of Pallavi Patnaik as Learning & Development Manager and Khushboo Sharma as Assistant Human Resources Manager. These strategic additions reinforce the hotel’s commitment to fostering a culture of learning, growth, and people-centric excellence hallmarks of the Hilton brand.

With over 15 years of experience, Pallavi Patnaik brings extensive expertise in training and human resources across renowned hospitality brands. She will lead Conrad Pune’s learning and development initiatives, designing, delivering, and evaluating strategies that empower team members to grow, lead, and excel. A native of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and an alumnus of WGSHA, Manipal, Pallavi began her career as a Management Trainee at ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru, and has contributed to leading hospitality chains including Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, Novotel Kochi Infopark, ibis Kochi City Centre, and Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh (pre-opening). Most recently, she served as Cluster Learning & Development Manager for ibis New Delhi Aerocity, ibis Gurgaon Golf Course Road, and ibis Jaipur City Centre.

“I am thrilled to rejoin the Hilton family and contribute to Conrad Pune’s legacy of excellence. My focus will be on nurturing a learning culture that empowers team members to grow, lead, and deliver exceptional guest experiences in true Hilton spirit,” said Pallavi Patnaik.

Joining her is Khushboo Sharma, who brings over 10 years of experience and will oversee key HR initiatives, fostering engagement, inclusion, and alignment with Hilton’s people-first philosophy. A Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur alumna, Khushboo began her career with The Oberoi Gurgaon as a Training Assistant and has since worked with reputed brands such as The Roseate New Delhi, Hyatt Centric Chandigarh (pre-opening), JW Marriott (pre-opening), and most recently, Grand Hyatt Mumbai, where she served as Assistant Human Resources Manager.

“I’m excited to join the Conrad Pune family and contribute to a workplace that celebrates people, passion, and purpose,” shared Khushboo Sharma.

With Pallavi and Khushboo on board, Conrad Pune continues to strengthen its position as a workplace where people and performance thrive together, embodying Hilton’s promise to be the most hospitable company in the world.

India at a ‘Defining Moment’, Must Deepen Reforms, Says Ajay Bisaria at ICC Wealth Management Summit 2025

Kolkata, Nov 17th: India stands at a “defining moment” amid global disruptions and critical domestic transitions, former diplomat and global advisor Ajay Bisaria said at the ICC Wealth Management Summit 2025. Speaking to industry leaders and policymakers, Bisaria highlighted that while India’s robust growth of 6.5% positions it as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, challenges remain: per-capita income of USD 3,000 and agriculture’s 17% share of GDP underscore the need for deeper structural reforms. He noted that policy milestones such as GST, UPI, the JAM trinity, banking reforms, and large-scale infrastructure upgrades provide a strong foundation for India to aim for long-term growth of 8%.

Bisaria emphasized that India’s foreign-policy approach has matured into a sophisticated “multi-alignment”, balancing relations with the US, China, Europe, Russia, Japan, and the Global South. However, he cautioned that India must carefully manage its ties with the US, given its central role in global finance and strategic technologies. He noted that trade restrictions imposed by the US and China have affected USD 35 billion of Indian exports and USD 100 billion of critical imports, respectively, while Europe’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and other climate-linked policies act as protectionist barriers.

“Geopolitics has become a core factor in business planning,” Bisaria remarked, pointing out that over 200 Fortune 500 companies exited Russia and Ukraine following conflicts. Tools such as tariffs, export controls, subsidies, and supply-chain restrictions are increasingly deployed strategically. Regarding the India–US partnership, he said it remains one of India’s most consequential alliances but faces friction over stalled trade talks, Russian oil, and US policies on Pakistan. A potential tariff deal in the 15–19% range could be announced soon, though proposals like the Higher Act, which includes a 25% outsourcing tax and a USD 100,000 levy per H-1B visa, pose new risks.

Looking ahead to 2025, Bisaria expressed cautious optimism. Potential developments include a settlement in Ukraine and stabilisation in West Asia. He projected India’s GDP growth at 7% for this fiscal and the next and anticipated that the upcoming Union Budget could introduce major reforms in land, labour, and capital markets. He also noted progress on trade negotiations with the US, EU, and Australia, while cautioning that even a brief India–Pakistan conflict cannot be ruled out.

ICC President Brij Bhushan Agarwal highlighted that India’s wealth-management sector is undergoing a transformation driven by technology, collaboration, and rising investor sophistication. As India moves toward a USD 5 trillion economy, the focus must shift from wealth creation to responsible, long-term wealth management. ICC Director General Rajeev Singh added that growing demand for personalised advisory, risk management, and tech-enabled solutions is reshaping financial decision-making, requiring resilient strategies to navigate global uncertainties.

The ICC Wealth Management Summit 2025 aimed to provide insights into India’s economic trajectory, the impact of geopolitics on business, and the evolving landscape of wealth management, equipping industry leaders to make informed decisions in a rapidly changing global environment.

Mumbai, Nov 17: Maximus Collabs proudly announces the launch of What Happened?, an inspiring new podcast series dedicated to highlighting the journeys of self-made individuals whose grit, resilience, and determination embody the true spirit of progress. The series celebrates those who have forged their own path and serves as a powerful reminder that unwavering commitment can take us anywhere.

Anchoring the series is Saumya Sharma, a seasoned marketer and storyteller known for his work with leading brands. Driven by a passion for impactful narratives, Saumya aims to bring India stories that spark ambition, empower listeners, and ignite dreams.

“It’s an honour to be the first guest on this podcast and reflect on the experiences that shaped my journey. Every obstacle, every kitchen, and every plate taught me something invaluable. I hope these conversations inspire others to follow their own path with courage and heart,” shared Chef Vikas Khanna.

“Vikas sir will always remain our very first guest—no one else could have filled that place in our hearts or in this series. He has been one of the biggest inspirations in our lives, and I’m grateful that a long-held dream is finally coming alive,” said Saumya Sharma, Anchor of What Happened?

The debut episode shines a spotlight on Vikas Khanna, whose remarkable journey from Amritsar to becoming a globally acclaimed chef, humanitarian, and storyteller perfectly reflects the spirit the series aims to celebrate.

With What Happened?, Maximus Collabs is committed to amplifying stories that deserve to be heard—stories that motivate millions to pursue their goals with passion, perseverance, and purpose.

BML Munjal University wraps up SAAR 2025 with strategic MoUs, breakthrough innovation showcases

Gurugram, November 17 : BML Munjal University (BMU), a Hero Group initiative, successfully concluded the inaugural edition of SAAR 2025 – Showcase of Action, Achievement and Reflection on Friday. Conceived as a tribute to the vision and values of Padma Bhushan Late Dr. B.M.L. Munjal, the event, which coincides with Founder’s Day of the university, brought together the BMU community and its wider network to celebrate innovation, leadership, and societal impact.

The inauguration ceremony began with an invocation of the Almighty, followed by a series of felicitations of students and alumni who have excelled in their respective branches. Two key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, with Bosch India Foundation and ICICI Foundation. While the former aims to empower young innovators and researchers to develop impactful technology-driven solutions that advance sustainable mobility, the latter aims to promote clean energy, efficient resource utilization, and environmentally responsible campus practices.

Addressing the esteemed gathering, Mr Akshay Munjal, Pro Chancellor, BML Munjal University, said;

“At BMU, we have always believed that education is the most strategic investment a nation can make. Guided by the Hero philosophy of learning by doing, empathy-led leadership and service to community, we created a university that bridges the gap between what industry needs and what society aspires for. SAAR reflects that commitment to nurture leaders who not only excel professionally but also uplift the world around them.”

An mmersive, day-long experience, SAAR opened with Samvaad, a compelling plenary session on “India’s Place in a Changing World,” curated by the School of Law. Eminent speakers, including Mr Shyam Saran, Former Foreign Secretary and Mr Bharat Anand from Khaitan & Co, offered deep perspectives on India’s geopolitical responsibilities and opportunities.

Saaransh, a three-panel CSR, education, and philanthropy forum, saw leaders from organisations such as Bosch India Foundation, ONGC Foundation, Mphasis, Jindal Steel, and ASSOCHAM Foundation address critical themes such as building risk-tolerant capital for social innovation, the future of philanthropic investment in higher education, and harnessing technology for good.

Throughout the day, attendees explored Shodh, BMU’s innovation showcase spotlighting student, faculty, and start-up breakthroughs in Deep Tech, Climate Tech, Health Tech, Sustainable Mobility, and Smart Manufacturing. Swapn, on the other hand, offered an evocative walk-through of student-led films, art, field-immersion narratives, and installations highlighting youth expression and community engagement.

Another key highlight of SAAR was the announcement of Umeed Kosh, the university’s emergency assistance fund for students and staff, created to offer timely support during unforeseen circumstances. Reinforcing the spirit behind these initiatives, Ms Bini Philips, Director – Development Office, BML Munjal University, said; “SAAR is a reflection of BMU’s core commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Through Samvaad, Shodh, Swapn and Saraansh, we are showcasing the depth of our research, creativity, and student-led initiatives.”

By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

Choosing between buying a new home and a resale property is an important decision for any homebuyer. They have to weigh factors like cost, convenience, and long-term value. New homes have the most up-to-date building codes, modern conveniences, and safety features. Resale homes are ready to move into and are often in established neighbourhoods.

Knowing the pros and cons of each can help you make a smart investment that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. As with any important decision and for a balanced approach, it is advisable to understand the cons as well as the pros of either option.

Primary Market Properties (New Homes From Developer)

Pros of buying from primary market

Purchasing a home from the first-hand market opens up potential for personalized financing options, and one is also assured of the latest amenities and better construction quality. Newly built housing has the benefit of RERA safeguards, which guarantee transparency to consumers. Moreover, buyers can overcome the inevitable maintenance pitfalls of older properties when they buy a new product. Finally, properties bought on the primary market tend to have stronger resale value.

Buyers can satisfy themselves with regards to the actual condition of the property, and the neighbourhood is already well established and generally tends to have more complete infrastructure than around new projects. Also, there is no GST payable on resale properties. The property will also be closer its ‘expiry date’ and therefore to eventual redevelopment, which can have very good implications for current owners.

Cons of buying from primary market

Buying a home on the primary market generally involves a higher cost, not least of all because of GST fees applicable on under-construction properties. There is always a danger of the project getting delayed when one is dealing with lesser-known players, which can lead to a doubled financial burden of EMI and rent while you wait.

If a project is delayed, buyers are left with uncertainty about the quality of construction as the developer may cut corners to expedite completion so as to stay RERA compliant. If there is higher volatility in the market, it can impact potential resale value.

Secondary Market Properties (Resale Homes from Owners/Investors)

Pros of buying from secondary market

Buying a home on the secondary market can often involve lower prices than available on the primary sales market, especially if the sellers is in a hurry to close the deal. However, this is not a given – if the resale property is in a high-demand/low-supply area, it may still command a premium.

One distinct advantage is that the property is ready to move in, and more or less ‘plug-and-play’. Also, it is a WYSIWYG – what you see is what you get – deal. Yet another potential benefit is that of securing a property in a saturated location where no new supply is coming in.

Cons of buying from secondary market

You may need to ante up more up front capital if the seller is looking for a cash-component-heavy deal – which can often be the case. You may not be able to detect less obvious or well-concealed defects in the property. Depending on the age of the property, home loans may be harder to come by and the wait for approval may be longer than for a new home.

Perhaps even more importantly, you’re settling for older construction and worn-out fittings, less updated amenities and designs, and may wind up paying higher maintenance.

There may also be title flaws, especially if the property has changed hands several times. And finally, the older a property gets, the less resale value it tends to have – expect, as already stated, if it is in a saturated but highly popular location where no new supply is coming in.

How to Decide

Much depends on your budget, your timing, and the appetite for or ability to weather risk. If you want the latest amenities, RERA cover and flexible payment plans, the primary market is for you. If you value move-in ready homes, less expensive up-front investment, and existing infrastructure, the secondary market may be a better bet.

You must factor in the implications of GST or the absence thereof, the availability of home loans and the terms on offer for each option, the future resale value of the home, and the legal soundness of the title. Also, evaluate your options in a given neighbourhood which is particularly attractive for you due to its proximity to your workplace and your children’s school, and sentimental associations due to the presence of friends or family.

– Advice to Investors – Primary Market Purchase

Make sure that the project has a RERA registration, that the developer has a sound reputation, and study the available payment plans- not least of all for less-than-transparent add-on burdens on your budget. Factor in the possibility of the project getting delayed, as this can significantly impact your finances.

As general rule of thumb, the better the builder’s reputation is, the likelier is reasonably timely possession. Do not neglect to account for GST and maintenance costs. Choose a location which has adequate infrastructure even if the project is new, as your quality of life there and also the eventual resale value depend on this. Study the market extensively before making a decision.

– Advice to Investors – Secondary Market Purchase

Pay strong attention to the property title and make sure that the property has all the necessary legal documentation. You can pay for a professional home inspection to verify whether there are hidden defects. Check your comfort level with cash components, which very often play a role in such deals.

Figure out how much you will be paying for maintenance, considering the age of the property – it is a good idea to ask neighbours about this as well as possible problems in the project and the location. Take pains to inform yourself about the going price trends in that area and project so that you don’t wind up paying a higher-than-necessary price.

To Conclude

Generally, purchasing a home from the first-hand market opens up potential for personalized financing options, and one is also assured of the latest amenities and better construction quality. Newly built housing has the benefit of RERA safeguards, which guarantee transparency to consumers.

Moreover, buyers can overcome the inevitable maintenance pitfalls of older properties when they buy a new product. Finally, properties bought on the primary market tend to have stronger resale value.

About the Author:

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience.

Mumbai, November 17, 2025: Remedium Lifecare Limited announced its financial results for the quarter and half-year ended September 30, 2025.

During the quarter ended September 30, 2025, the consolidated financial results reflect strong operational momentum. Consolidated revenue from operations stood at Rs. 11,105.82 lakh, with total income reaching Rs 11,431.25 lakh. The quarter recorded a consolidated profit before tax of Rs. 1,043.69 lakh and a profit after tax of Rs. 862.34 lakh, with earnings per share of Rs. 0.10, which has doubled compared to Q1 FY26.

For the half year ended September 30, 2025, consolidated revenue from operations was Rs. 322,442.39 lakh and total income stood at Rs. 23,115.60 lakh. Profit before tax for the half year was Rs. 1,614.92 lakh, while profit after tax stood at Rs. 1,327.22 lakh, translating to an earnings per share of Rs. 0.15. Consolidated total assets as on September 30, 2025, amounted to Rs. 1,62,318.10 lakh.

Commenting on the financial performance, Mr Adarsh Munjal, Whole-Time Director, said: “The second quarter results reflect our continued commitment to operational discipline and business expansion. Our consolidated performance demonstrates the strength of our portfolio and our ability to scale efficiently. We are confident that this momentum will continue through the remainder of the financial year as we focus on improving profitability, strengthening our asset position, and driving sustainable growth for all stakeholders.”

Remedium Lifecare has recently reinforced its leadership structure with the appointment of Mr Rambhajan Vishwakarma and Mr Vignesh Laxman Gawde on the Board, signifying a renewed focus on governance, global expansion and scaling of CDMO capabilities.

In parallel, the Company’s strategy of leveraging its global-subsidiary footprint (including Singapore incorporation in September 2024) and expanding CDMO service offerings underscores its ambition to strengthen and monetise its speciality pharma and chemicals business.

Dollar Industries Reports Robust Q2 Results: Operation EBITDA Up 23.3% Yoy To ₹6,031 Lakh With A Margin Of 12.8%

Kolkata, 17^th November, 2025: Dollar Industries Limited, one of the most trusted names in the Garment & Hosiery business, announced its Q2 FY26 results today. The Board of Directors of Dollar Industries Limited at its meeting held on 13^th November 2025 took on record the unaudited Financial Results for the second quarter of Financial Year 202526. Dollar Industries have a robust domestic and international presence spreading over more than 15 countries.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Vinod Kumar Gupta and Mr. Binay Kumar Gupta, Managing Directors, Dollar Industries Limited said:

“We are pleased to report another quarter of steady performance and strategic progress for Dollar Industries Limited. This quarter marks a key milestone with the proposed merger of nine promoter group companies into the listed entity, consolidating brand ownership, manufacturing units, and real estate under one structure to enhance governance, operational control, and efficiency. A key highlight of the merger is the transfer of the ‘Dollar’ brand ownership directly to Dollar Industries Limited, giving us complete ownership of a core asset and eliminating potential conflicts of interest. With the brand consolidated under the listed entity, we will be able strengthen our market presence, drive product innovation, and deepen stakeholder trust.

Moving on to the financial highlights of the quarter gone by, Operating Income grew 5.6% YoY to ₹ 47,186 lakhs, supported by consistent demand across key product categories.

Operating EBITDA rose 23.3% YoY to ₹6,031 lakhs, with margins expanding 183 bps to 12.8%, reflecting significant benefits of operating leverage and cost optimization initiatives. We have been able to curtail our advertisement to 6.2% of Operating Income in H1 FY26, as compared to 7.2% in H1 FY25, and plan to further reduce this percentage in the coming quarters.

PAT stood at ₹ 3,517 Lakhs for the quarter, growing at 32.7% YoY, with margin expanding by 151 bps to 7.4%.

Notably, the thermals segment stood out with robust growth of 23.5% YoY in value, with volumes up 28.1% YoY in Q2 FY26, supported by expectations of a prolonged winter season and improved product availability across key geographies.

On the distribution front, the company continued to strengthen its presence across modern trade, e-commerce, and Quick Commerce channels, which together contributed 10.2% of total sales during the quarter. Revenue from quick commerce, though on a relatively small base, scaled sharply to contribute 4.0% to overall sales, underscoring its increasing significance in the company’s retail mix.

We remain committed to driving growth through stronger brand ownership, operational excellence, and deeper channel integration, positioning Dollar Industries for sustained value creation and long-term success.”

“Milestones Achieved in Q2 FY26”

• Operating Income of ₹ 47,186 Lakhs in Q2 FY26, registering a growth of 5.6% YoY
• Gross Profit of ₹ 16,402 Lakhs in Q2 FY26, registering a growth of 9.6%. Gross margin was at 34.8%
• Operating EBITDA of ₹ 6,031 Lakhs in Q2 FY26, growing 23.3% YoY, with a margin of 12.8%
• PAT of ₹ 3,517 Lakhs in Q2 FY26, growing 32.7% YoY. PAT margin stood at 7.4%
• EPS st

“Milestones Achieved in H1 FY26”

• Operating Income of ₹ 87,098 Lakhs in H1 FY26, registering a growth of 11.6% YoY
• Gross Profit of ₹ 30,550 Lakhs in H1 FY26, registering a growth of 13.8%. Gross margin was at 35.1%
• Operating EBITDA of ₹ 10,319 Lakhs in H1 FY26, growing 22.1% YoY, with a margin of 11.8%
• PAT of ₹ 5,649 Lakhs in H1 FY26, growing 35.1% YoY. PAT margin stood at 6.5%
• EPS stood at ₹ 9.96 in H1 FY26 as against ₹ 7.37 in H1 FY25