Archives January 2026

COLORFUL Unveils Flagship iGame X870E VULCAN OC Motherboard

Colorful

Mumbai, India, Jan 31 – Colorful Technology Company Limited, a leading brand in gaming PC components, gaming laptops, and HiFi audio products, introduces the iGame X870E VULCAN OC flagship motherboard featuring the AMD X870E platform designed for enthusiasts and extreme overclockers. Even ahead of its formal launch, the motherboard had already made headlines by achieving a new overclocking milestone, successfully pushing the AMD Ryzen™ 7 9800X3D processor to an impressive 7335.48MHz — securing the top position globally for this CPU model in high-frequency rankings.

Designed to extract the maximum potential from AMD’s latest Ryzen 9000 X3D processors, the iGame X870E VULCAN OC combines high-end power delivery, advanced cooling, and gamer-centric tuning features. The board continues COLORFUL’s focus on competitive performance, intelligent firmware optimization, and distinctive industrial design.

Futuristic Design with Smart Display Integration

colorful

The iGame X870E VULCAN OC retains the Vulcan series’ signature futuristic aesthetics, finished in deep black with multi-layer metal heatsinks that deliver both visual impact and thermal efficiency. A fin-array cooling structure and integrated full-coverage backplate ensure long-term stability under sustained high loads.

• Customizable iGame Smart LCD screen positioned beside the VRM area
• 268×800-pixel display for system monitoring and visual customization
• Integrated iGame RGB lighting

These elements combine to give the motherboard a distinctly futuristic appearance while maintaining a focus on airflow and durability.

Extreme Power Delivery and Memory Support

colorful

Built for high-current workloads, the iGame X870E VULCAN OC employs a robust power design tailored for overclocking and next-generation CPUs.

• 18 + 2 + 2 phase power design with 110A DrMOS stages
• Dual 8-pin CPU power connectors for sustained high-load operation
• Server-grade 10-layer PCB with electroless silvering process
• Dual-channel DDR5 memory support up to 10400MT/s
• Intel XMP and AMD EXPO support

This configuration delivers cleaner signal transmission and enhanced stability, particularly during extreme tuning scenarios.

Overclocking-Focused Features and Modern Connectivity

colorfu

The motherboard is equipped with a comprehensive set of physical controls and firmware tools designed to streamline manual tuning and competitive benchmarking.

• On-board shortcut buttons for rapid overclocking adjustments
• Debug LED display for real-time system diagnostics
• Dual BIOS support with hardware switching
• BLCK external frequency adjustment for fine-grained tuning

Expansion and connectivity options reflect the latest platform standards:

• 1 × PCIe 5.0 x16 slot
• 5 × M.2 slots, including 3 × PCIe 5.0 interfaces
• 5GbE wired LAN
• Integrated Wi-Fi 7 wireless module

Dedicated X3D Optimization for Gaming Performance

colorful

To maximize performance from AMD’s X3D processors, COLORFUL has introduced the X3D AI Turbo, a specialized tuning feature exclusive to the flagship iGame X870E VULCAN OC motherboard.

• X3D AI Turbo tuning function for AMD Ryzen X3D processors
• Dedicated X3D One-Click Overclocking button on the rear I/O
• Instant performance uplift without entering the BIOS
• X3D AI High Frame Rate Mode integrated into BIOS
• Automatic optimization of base clock and PBO parameters
• Multiple manual profiles to balance performance and stability

These features allow gamers to unlock higher frame rates quickly while maintaining system reliability.

Specifications

CPU   AMD AM5 socket, supports AMD Ryzen 7000/ 8000/ 9000 series processors
Chipset AMD X870E
Power supply phase 18+2+2 Power Phase (Dr MOS 110A)
Memory 2x DDR5 DIMM Socket Dual-Channel*, Support XMP/ EXPO

*Single memory supports up to 64GB capacity, total memory capacity supports up to 128GB

Ryzen™ 9000: up to DDR5-8600+MT/s(OC)

Ryzen™ 8000: up to DDR5-10000+MT/s(OC)

Ryzen™ 7000: up to DDR5-8000+MT/s(OC)

Expansion Slot 1x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1*PCIe 4.0 x4
Storage 4x SATA 6Gb/s

3x PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 SSD

2*PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 SSD

Internal Connectors 1x 24-pin ATX Power connector

2x 8-pin CPU Power connector

1x Front USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C

2x Front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (one pin)

4x Front USB 2.0 (two pins)

I/O Ports 1x USB 4 Type-C (Support 4K Display output)

4x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A;

4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A;

2x USB 2.0;

1x HDMI port;

1x DP port;

LAN RTL 8125G 5G + Wi-Fi 7, Support Bluetooth 5.4
Audio 7.1-Channel High-Definition audio CODEC
Dimensions 305mm*245mm, ATX

Pricing and Availability

For more information on availability and pricing, please contact your local COLORFUL Technology representative.

Maybelline New York Names Kiara Advani as Brand Ambassador in India

India, Jan 31: Maybelline New York, the world’s number one makeup brand, today introduced one of Indian cinema’s leading actors, Kiara Advani as its new brand ambassador for India. Effortlessly modern and confident, Kiara represents a new chapter for the brand, one where beauty is rooted in self-expression, and makeup becomes an extension of identity rather than transformation.

MNY  x KIARA ADVANI (3)

As the ambassador for Maybelline New York, Kiara Advani embodies a confident and deeply authentic sense of beauty that resonates with the brand ethos. With a presence that feels both aspirational and relatable, her ability to seamlessly balance global appeal with a keen sense of self makes her a natural choice for Maybelline New York, championing the brand’s evolving vision of beauty and self-expression.

“Makeup, for me, is a form of self-expression. It shifts with my mood, my mindset, and how I choose to show up. Becoming the face of Maybelline New York feels especially meaningful, as the brand stands to support people all over the world in their quest for self-exploration through the power of makeup,”

 Kiara Advani.

“This partnership feels instinctive and I’m excited to be part of a brand that encourages everyone to express themselves authentically and on their own terms.”

Born in New York and shaped by its bold, diverse, and fast-paced culture, Maybelline New York, has always stood at the intersection of modernity, innovation, and accessibility. With a strong focus on high-performance products, trend-forward offerings, and inclusive beauty, the brand empowers consumers across the world to express and own their individuality through makeup.

Commenting on the launch, Maya El Aramouni, General Manager, Maybelline New York India, said:

 “As we welcome Kiara to the Maybelline New York family, we look forward to working together to create beauty that feels intuitive, inclusive, and aligned with the way our consumers see themselves today. This is an important moment for the brand in India, where Kiara represents the confident, expressive and ever-curious Maybelline consumer.”

Marking this new association, Maybelline New York introduced its latest innovation: the Maybelline Serum Lipstick. Headlined by Kiara Advani in the bold matte shade ‘Wildcard’, the launch reflects a shift toward beauty that is personal, intuitive, and designed for those who demand both high-performance color and deep care.

This lipstick is elevated with serum-level hydration. Infused with Hyaluronic Acid and a nourishing oil blend, the formula delivers 8-hour plumping moisture. In one swipe, tone-enhancing pigments merge with long-wear comfort for visibly smoother, more refined lips. Available in thirteen shades across Satin and Matte finishes, the collection features shades that flatter all Indian skin tones.

NSDC International Opens Japan Pathways for Indian Youth Through Language Training

Chandigarh, Jan 31: In a significant step towards advancing India Japan cooperation in skilled workforce mobility, NSDC International  under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship  Government of India, today organised a Send-Off Ceremony for a new batch of Indian candidates who have successfully completed Japanese language training and are proceeding to Japan for various opportunities across key sectors.

Send Off Ceremony - NSDCI to Japan

The ceremony was held at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi, and marked the departure of 39 candidates trained under NSDCI’s structured Japanese language and cultural readiness programme. The candidates will take up various opportunities in sectors such as caregiving, hospitality and agriculture, across multiple prefectures in Japan, including Tokyo and Ibaraki, Hokkaido etc.

The send-off ceremony represents a key milestone in NSDCI’s ongoing efforts to build a steady pipeline of India-ready talent for overseas employment through structured language training, cultural orientation and employer alignment. The Japanese language and cultural readiness programme is designed to ensure smooth workplace integration, enhance employability and support long-term retention of Indian professionals in Japan’s labour market.

Smt. Archana Mayaram, Economic Advisor, MSDE mentioned about the visit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to Japan in August last year where the Leaders of India and Japan had reaffirmed the special strategic and global partnerships and had adopted a joint vision for the next decade.  An action plan of Human Resource Exchange of 5,00,000 personnel in the next 5 years, including 50,000 skilled professionals and potential talent from India to Japan has been envisioned. As structural realignment of the Global economy continues, India’s contribution to services sector is emerging as a strong pillar of the Global economy. The youngsters who are embarking on a journey to Japan are the real ambassadors of India and are representatives of growing presence of India in the global economy.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. ArunKumar Pillai, Chief Executive Officer, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), said,

Skilled workforce mobility has become a defining pillar of international cooperation. As these young professionals take their first steps into the world, they are carrying not just their skills but the pride and values of India with them. Their journey to Japan reflects the growing global trust in India’s talent and in the quality of our skilling and language preparation. Through partnerships like these, we are creating real, life-changing pathways for our youth to build meaningful international careers  and in doing so, to strengthen India’s reputation as a dependable, future-ready partner for global workforce needs.”

NSDC International has so far trained over 400 candidates in Japanese language programmes aligned with Japanese industry requirements, with 185 candidates already successfully working in Japan. The current group has completed nearly nine months of language training, equipping them with both Japanese language proficiency and cultural understanding essential for workplace success.
Alongside the current cohort, preparations are underway to enable more than 100 candidates to undertake this journey as part of the engagement.

The candidates hail from diverse regions including Manipur, Mizoram, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on inclusive access to global opportunities, regardless of geography or background. The candidates will be working in reputed Japanese organisations across multiple prefectures, supporting Japan’s workforce needs while enhancing India’s global talent footprint.

The Send-Off Ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced India’s commitment to skill-led international mobility, positioning Indian youth as reliable contributors to global value chains.

NSDC International remains committed to expanding language training capacity, deepening international partnerships, and strengthening India’s role as a trusted source of skilled talent for the world.

TyresNmore Launches First Physical Experience Centre in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, India  Jan 31: TyresNmore  RPG Group’s auto-tech commerce platform, today announced the launch of its first physical experience centre in Kasavanahalli, Bengaluru. This milestone marks the brand’s strategic expansion into offline retail, extending its core promise of convenience, transparency and trust by being close to its customers.TyresNmore Launches First Physical Experience Centre in Bengaluru

Designed for customers who value personalization, speed, transparency and comfort; the experience centre enables quick tyre, battery, alloy wheels & accessories fitments through TnM’s trusted advisors at the store as part of the customer’s planned service visit in a comfortable, modern retail setting.

The centre offers customers access to a wide range of leading tyre brands including CEAT, Apollo, Goodyear, JK Tyres and more, along with batteries from brands such as Amaron, Exide and premium alloy wheels from manufacturers like Neo ensuring customers can choose what best fits their vehicle and driving needs from this assortment.

In addition to tyre, battery & other product replacements, the experience centre allows TyresNmore to offer advanced automotive services such as precision wheel alignment, road force balancingnitrogen tyre inflation etc delivered using high-accuracy, premium state-of-the-art machinery operated by TnM’s expert technicians. The service excellence results in driving comfort, safety, and vehicle life to deliver a superior customer driving experience.

Speaking on the launch, Rakesh Tatikonda, CEO, TyresNmore, said:

“Our mission has always been to transform automotive aftercare in India by offering seamless, tech-driven, end-to-end mobility solutions delivered with trust, transparency, and convenience. Having established ourselves as a leader in doorstep fitments via our online platform, moving into physical retail is a natural evolution to enhance customer experience. This channel diversification allows us to offer premium services and accessories that require a specialized touchpoint for car & bike enthusiasts. Bengaluru has always been a key market for us, and this experience centre allows us to bring our ‘customer-first’ philosophy into a physical space, delivering precision and transparency at every step.”

At the TyresNmore experience centre, customers can access:

  • Expert Consultation: A wide assortment of multi-brand tyres, batteries, alloys and car/bike accessories
  • Precision Services: High end wheel alignment, road force balancing, nitrogen tyre inflation using state-of-the-art equipment
  • Professional Care: Quick, high quality replacement services delivered by expert technicians

The experience centre reflects TyresNmore’s commitment to strengthening its service ecosystem, ensuring a reliable and comfortable driving experience through a well-integrated, omnichannel approach for its customers.

OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon Unites the City for “Health for All”

Bengaluru,  Jan 31 :The OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon, organised by Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, was successfully held today, marking the 19th edition of one of India’s longest-running and most inclusive public movements. With OpenText continuing as the Title Sponsor for the second consecutive year, the Walkathon reaffirmed a shared commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and collective well-being, centred on the theme “Health for All.”

56

Over the years, the Bengaluru Walkathon has evolved into a powerful platform bringing together persons with disabilities, senior citizens, students, volunteers, corporates, institutions, NGOs, and community organisations, transforming participation into a visible act of solidarity and shared responsibility.

The Walkathon witnessed participation from over 10,000 people, with a significant representation of persons with disabilities, making it one of India’s most inclusive public movements. Held at Kitturu Rani Chennamma Stadium, the event saw the city come together to demonstrate that inclusion is strongest when it is visible, participatory, and collective.

The Walkathon was led by Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, along with Mr. Manoj Nagpal, Managing Director & Vice President  Professional Services, OpenText. Their leadership underscored the power of sustained collaboration between the social and corporate sectors in driving long-term, meaningful impact.

The event was graced by Shri C.K. Ramamurthy, MLA, Jayanagar Assembly Constituency and Chairman, Bangalore South District who graced the event as the Chief Guest, and Sri N. Nagaraju, Former Ruling Party Leader of BBMP.

Senior corporate leaders who participated included Ms. Divvya Shetty, Solution Director – Consulting, Blue Yonder; Mr. Rajesh Ramesh, Senior Director Finance, CSC; Mr. Rajesh D.K., AGM, Nabtesco India Private Limited; Ms. Himanshi Jain, Senior People Partner, Hiver; Mr. Vinayak Naik, VP IT Group Executive, FIS; Mr. Punit Sheth, Senior Vice President, SmartStream; and Mr. Sairam Yadalla, Associate Vice President  Software, Voya Global Services Pvt. Ltd.
The event also saw participation from Mr. Janak Bedi, Managing Director & Co-Founder, MyDream Global & MyDream TV, USA.

Leading corporates and institutions participated in large numbers, reflecting strong corporate support for inclusive social action. The Walkathon was further honoured by the presence of Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General, Australian High Commission,

Adding a powerful and inspiring dimension to the event was the participation of the World Champions – Indian Women’s Team, 1st T20 World Cup, Cricket for the Blind (2025), symbolising resilience, excellence, and the transformative role of inclusive sports in nation-building.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar said:

“The Walkathon is not about charity it is about visibility, dignity, and participation. When persons with disabilities walk alongside the larger community, society begins to move together. ‘Health for All’ is not a slogan; it is a responsibility to ensure that well-being, opportunity, and inclusion reach everyone.”

Mr. Manoj Nagpal, OpenText, said:

 “The OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon demonstrates the impact of long-term partnerships built on shared values. Health, inclusion, and access are foundational to a strong society, and OpenText is proud to stand with Samarthanam in advancing these principles through sustained action.”

Adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the Walkathon, Team SUNADHA, the arts and culture vertical of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, enthralled participants with live performances by singers and musicians with disabilities. Their performances energised the walkers and reinforced the message that art, expression, and inclusion go hand in hand, making the Walkathon not just a public health movement but also a celebration of talent, resilience, and ability.

We look forward to the continued support of the media in amplifying the Walkathon’s message of inclusion, public health, and collective responsibility across platforms.

As the Walkathon moves steadily toward its 20th year, the OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon stands as a living legacy shaped by purpose, strengthened by partnerships, and driven by the vision of Health for All, inspiring communities to walk together toward a more inclusive future.

Budget 2026 Seen as Catalyst for Indigenous Defence Manufacturing and HVAC Growth

Ravalnath Shende, Chairman and Managing Director, Shree Refrigerations Limited:

“The Union Budget 2026 is an opportunity to strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem that underpins defence, infrastructure and core industrial sectors. As national security priorities and industrial growth become increasingly interconnected, sustained policy support for indigenous manufacturing, R&D and energy-efficient technologies will be pivotal to make India’s vision of a self-reliant defense ecosystem . As the demand for HVAC systems is continuously rising,  encourages long-term capital investment and support advanced manufacturing can help build scale and operational resilience. A balanced approach that combines fiscal discipline with steady investment in defence-linked manufacturing will not only reduce import dependence but also strengthen India’s position in critical supply chains and enhance the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers in the defence sector.”

Vogue Values: Women of Excellence Celebrates Leadership and Impact

India, Jan 31: Vogue India is set to launch Vogue Values Women of Excellence presented by Tira, a new flagship platform dedicated to celebrating women who are shaping India’s cultural, economic and social future. Taking place on February 17, the invite-only event brings together leaders, changemakersand icons across industries for a day of dialogue and an evening of celebration.

Vogue Values - Women of Excellence presented by Tira - Image 1

Designed to move beyond tokenism, Vogue Values: Women of Excellence presented by Tira places women at the centre of every conversation spotlighting real leadership, lived experience and meaningful impact. From craft and design to sport, entrepreneurshipand social change, the platform reflects the full spectrum of Indian womanhood.

“Look at any headline and you will see Indian women giving a masterclass in excellence in nearly every field breaking records, winning accolades and shaping policy to be more empathetic and inclusive. Our honourees share Vogue’s values and sense of purpose, and we are proud to be able to celebrate them on a global stage,”

 Rochelle Pinto, Head of Editorial Content, Vogue India

“The beauty landscape has evolved driven by curiosity, experimentation, and a rejection of one-size-fits-all ideals. This shift has opened the industry to new perspectives and more authentic conversations. Partnering with Vogue Values: Women of Excellence feels aligned with this moment, as it celebrates individuality and impact. At Tira, these same values shapes how we create a space for discovering and experiencing beauty today,”

 Bhakti Modi  Co Founder & CEO  Tira

The day will feature a curated series of panel discussions on craft, sports, leadership and entrepreneurship. The programme culminates in a red carpet awards ceremony, honouring extraordinary individuals whose work is driving change and redefining leadership.

Vogue Values: Women of Excellence, presented by Tira, aims to close representation gaps, inspire future leadersand champion inclusivity, reaffirmin

Vedanta Delivers Record Q3FY26 Performance; Profit After Tax Jumps 60% YoY

Mumbai, Jan  31: Vedanta Limited (BSE: 500295 | NSE: VEDL) today announced its Unaudited Consolidated Results for the third quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2025, reporting an exceptional financial and operational performance. Profit After Tax (PAT) surged 60% year-on-year, supported by record EBITDA, margin expansion, and strong operational execution across businesses.

Financial Highlights – Q3FY26

Vedanta recorded its highest-ever quarterly revenue, reflecting a 19% year-on-year growth, driven by higher commodity prices, increased volumes, favourable premiums, and forex gains. EBITDA rose 34% year-on-year to a record level, with margins expanding by 629 basis points to 41%.

Profit After Tax for the quarter marked a 60% year-on-year increase. Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) remained strong at 27%, improving by 296 basis points year-on-year. The Net Debt to EBITDA ratio further improved to 1.23x, reflecting balance sheet strength and disciplined capital management.

Vedanta’s credit ratings were reaffirmed at AA by both CRISIL and ICRA following the approval of the Company’s proposed demerger by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

Strong Operational Performance

The Company delivered record or near-record production across multiple businesses:

  • Aluminium: Highest-ever quarterly production; alumina output surged to a record level

  • Zinc India: Record third-quarter mined and refined metal production; achieved the lowest Q3 cost of production in the last five years

  • Zinc International: Production increased 28% year-on-year

  • Iron Ore: Ore production rose year-on-year; pig iron output increased

  • Copper: Highest quarterly cathode production in the last seven years

  • Ferro Chrome: Production increased 32% year-on-year

  • Power: Sales volumes rose 61% year-on-year

Strategic Milestones

During the quarter, Vedanta received approval from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for its proposed demerger, marking a significant step toward the creation of five independent, pure-play entities. The Company also acquired Incab Industries, strengthening its downstream capabilities in copper and aluminium.

Vedanta continued to invest significantly in growth capital expenditure during the first nine months of FY26, reinforcing its commitment to long-term expansion and operational excellence.

Shareholder Value Creation

Vedanta delivered a total shareholder return of approximately 30% during the quarter, significantly outperforming benchmark indices. Over the past five years, total shareholder returns stood at 428%, supported by a strong cumulative dividend payout.

Management Commentary

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Arun Misra, Executive Director, Vedanta, said:

“Q3 FY26 has been a landmark quarter for Vedanta, with our highest-ever EBITDA and strong performances across key businesses. Aluminium and Zinc India delivered their best-ever financial results, supported by record production and cost efficiencies. The approval of our demerger into five pure-play entities further strengthens our readiness to unlock long-term value as we advance Vedanta’s 2.0 journey.”

Mr. Ajay Goel, Chief Financial Officer, Vedanta, added:

“This has been a remarkable quarter marked by record PAT, revenue, and EBITDA, alongside sharp margin expansion. Our balance sheet continues to strengthen, reflected in improved leverage metrics and reaffirmation of our AA credit rating. These results underscore market confidence in Vedanta’s growth trajectory and value-creation strategy.”

ESG Highlights – Q3FY26

  • ESG Leadership: Vedanta Aluminium ranked second globally in the S&P Corporate Sustainability Assessment for the third consecutive year. Cairn Oil & Gas ranked among the top five globally in its first participation.

  • Environmental Progress: Renewable energy usage increased quarter-on-quarter, greenhouse gas intensity declined, and water recycling levels improved significantly.

  • Social Impact: CSR initiatives positively impacted millions of lives globally, with a strong focus on education, skill development, and women empowerment.

Outlook

With strong operational momentum, an improving balance sheet, and key strategic initiatives underway, Vedanta remains well positioned to sustain growth and unlock long-term value for all stakeholders.

Blue Star Announces Board and Leadership Changes

Mumbai, Jan 31:  Blue Star Limited announced a series of Board and senior leadership changes, underscoring the Company’s focus on strong governance, leadership continuity, and long-term growth.

Sam Balsara to Retire as Independent Director

Mr. Sam Balsara will retire from the Board of Blue Star Limited on January 31, 2026, upon completion of two consecutive terms as an Independent Director, having attained the age of 75 years.

Chairman of Madison World, one of India’s largest media and communication agencies, Mr. Balsara joined the Blue Star Board in June 2017 and was reappointed for a second term in June 2022. A stalwart in marketing and advertising with over five decades of experience, he provided valuable guidance to the Company on brand-building strategies, consumer insights, and evolving media trends.

As Chairman of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Mr. Balsara made an invaluable contribution to leadership development and succession planning initiatives at Blue Star.

M S Unnikrishnan Appointed Independent Director

The Board has appointed Mr. M S Unnikrishnan as an Independent Director with effect from January 29, 2026, for a term of five years.

Mr. Unnikrishnan brings over four decades of leadership experience and currently serves as Head & CEO of the IITB–Monash Research Academy, a joint venture between the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, and Monash University, Australia. Previously, he served as Managing Director of the Thermax Group, where he led a diversified engineering business with a global manufacturing footprint focused on energy and environment solutions.

He currently serves on the boards of KEC International Limited, Kirloskar Brothers Limited, Greaves Cotton Limited, and Livguard Energy Technologies Pvt. Limited. He is also a trustee of Akshayapatra and Jehangir Hospital, Pune.

Mr. Unnikrishnan is a Mechanical Engineering graduate from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur, and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.

B Thiagarajan Reappointed as Managing Director

The Board has reappointed Mr. B Thiagarajan as Managing Director for a further term from April 1, 2026, up to May 24, 2027, following the completion of his current term on March 31, 2026.

Mr. Thiagarajan holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Madurai University and has completed the Senior Executive Programme at London Business School. With over four decades of professional experience across B2B and B2C businesses, he has been associated with Blue Star since 1998.

He was inducted to the Board in 2013, appointed Joint Managing Director in 2016, and assumed charge as Managing Director in April 2019. Mr. Thiagarajan actively participates in industry forums and currently serves as a member of the CII National Council, National Chairman of the Indian Green Building Council, and the CII Green Cooling Council.

Mohit Sud Elevated as Executive Director

Mr. Mohit Sud has been appointed Executive Director, Unitary Cooling Products, for a period of five years with effect from April 1, 2026.

Mr. Sud joined Blue Star in March 2025 as Group President, Unitary Cooling Products, overseeing Room Air Conditioners and Commercial Refrigeration businesses. His responsibilities span sales, marketing, service, R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain.

A Mechanical Engineer with an MBA from XLRI, Jamshedpur, Mr. Sud brings over two decades of experience from Hindustan Unilever, where he led sales and marketing across multiple product categories and geographies. In his last role as Vice President, he was responsible for premium retail distribution for the Beauty & Wellbeing business.

Leadership Commentary

Commenting on the announcements, Mr. Vir S. Advani, Chairman & Managing Director, Blue Star Limited, said:

“Blue Star is an 82-year-old brand, and Sam has played a significant role in strengthening the Company’s strategic efforts to make it more youthful and relevant, including deeper penetration into Tier 3, 4 and 5 markets. His marketing insights helped Blue Star gain market share consistently. On behalf of the Board, I place on record our deep appreciation for his outstanding contribution and exemplary service.

Unnikrishnan’s exemplary leadership experience in engineering businesses and exposure to international markets make him a valuable addition to the Board.

The extension of Thiagarajan’s tenure will help accelerate our strategic programmes in growth, R&D and manufacturing, while ensuring a seamless leadership transition.

Mohit has been groomed for a Board-level leadership role, and I am confident that his strong consumer-focused experience will support Blue Star’s mission to enhance market share and profitability in the Unitary Cooling Products business.”

Meesho Posts INR 10,995 Cr NMV in Q3 FY26 as Orders and User Base Surge

Bengaluru,  Jan 30: Meesho, India’s largest e-commerce platform by Annual Transacting  Users and Placed Orders, today announced its Q3 FY26 performance and shared its first shareholder  letter as a public company.  

Founded in 2015 with the vision of Democratising Internet Commerce for India, Meesho exists to make  e-commerce affordable and accessible to every Indian. The company delivers affordability through a  highly efficient, low-cost channel for sellers, enabled by technology-led innovations that optimize  logistics, automate seller operations, encourage competitive pricing, and benefit from scale-driven  operating leverage. Accessibility remains equally central to its strategy, with products designed for  low-end smartphones and low-bandwidth environments, and discovery-led shopping experiences  supported by multi-lingual interfaces, easy cataloguing, and vernacular image and voice capabilities. 

Vidit Aatrey, Founder & CEO. Meesho said,

“Our Q3 results reflect the strength of Meesho’s flywheel,  with more users transacting more frequently, driving platform growth while building long-term habits  in previously underserved markets. Today, we serve 251 million consumers and enable business growth  for 846,000+ sellers annually, many of whom are first-time e-commerce users. Becoming a public  company changes how we are accountable, but it does not change what we optimize for, as platform  health and disciplined growth remain our priority. Our north star is Free Cash Flow per share, which  captures the real cash generated after reinvestment and reflects the long-term economics of our  business.”  

Q3 FY26 Highlights:  

Strong User Growth Reflects Increasing Order Volumes and Purchase Frequency   Record Scale in Users and Orders: 

Placed orders for Q3 FY26 stood at 690 million, up 36% year-on-year, while Annual Transacting  Users grew 34% year-on-year to 251 million, making Meesho the largest e-commerce platform  in India by both Annual Transacting Users and Placed Orders.  

  • Rising Purchase Frequency Signals Repeat Behaviour: 

On a Last Twelve Month basis, users transacted 9.78 times per year on average, growing 9%  year-on-year, reflecting not just growth in our user base but increasing purchase frequency.  Together, this indicates the formation of repeat purchasing behaviour, particularly across  markets that have historically been underpenetrated by e-commerce.  

User Growth and Rising Purchase Frequency Drive NMV Growth 

Driven by strong user growth and increasing purchase frequency, Meesho reported Net Merchandise  Value (NMV) of INR 10,995 crore in Q3 FY26, representing 26% year-on-year growth.

  • Impact of festive season shift:  

NMV growth in the quarter needs to also be viewed in the context of festive calendar shifts.  Diwali fell in mid-October this year vs. early November last year, shifting some festival  shopping from Q3 into Q2. For instance, our festive Meesho Mega Blockbuster Sale started  on 19th Sept in 2025, vs 27th Sept in 2024. Hence, a more meaningful comparison combines  Q2 and Q3 FY26 for festive calendar shifts: together these quarters delivered INR 21,510 crores  in NMV, growing 37% YoY.  

  • Technology investments improve new consumer onboarding:  

As part of its ongoing focus on improving relevance and conversion for new users, Meesho  enhanced the home page experience for first-time e-commerce consumers through the  deployment of deep-learning–based recommendation models that personalise feeds using  limited onboarding signals. In parallel, improvements to voice search capabilities supported  higher new-user conversion, particularly across regional language markets, helping lower  entry barriers for users engaging with e-commerce for the first time. 

  • Expanding use cases Through Brand Participation:  

Leading brands like Dabur are scaling on Meesho Mall, bringing national brands at competitive  prices to value-conscious customers across India. 

Positive LTM FCF supported by working capital cycle and minimal capex 

  • On a last twelve months basis, free cash flow stood at INR 56 crore, supported by growth in  NMV. The company’s asset-light operating model, characterised by minimal capital  expenditure and a negative working capital cycle, continues to support cash flow generation.  As of 31 December 2025, Meesho’s cash balance stood at INR 7,277 Cr, including INR 4,088 Cr  raised through initial public offering in Dec FY26.