Archives February 2026

IIT Patna’s Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals Shows Strong Multi-Batch Success

Feb 6: The Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals at IIT Patna continues to demonstrate strong momentum, marked by high enrolments, consistent learner trust, and impressive satisfaction scores across multiple cohorts. The programme has emerged as a preferred choice for working professionals seeking industry-aligned, hands-on education in generative artificial intelligence.

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The first batch of the programme, conducted from May 2025 to November 2025, successfully concluded with an enrolment of 190 professionals and achieved an outstanding CSAT score of 4.5 out of 5 across all modules. Building on this success, the second batch (August 31 to February 28) witnessed a significant rise in participation, enrolling 308 professionals and securing a CSAT score of 4.2 out of 5. Cohort 2 is currently progressing through the Web App Building module and is on track for successful completion in February 2026.

The programme’s growing appeal is further reflected in Batch 4, which commenced in January 2026 and has already enrolled 288 professionals. This sustained demand underscores the relevance of the curriculum and the increasing need for practical, job-ready Generative AI skills in today’s evolving technology landscape.

Commenting on the programme’s success, an IIT Patna representative said,

“The continued success of this programme reflects both consistency in delivery and a strong alignment with industry requirements. Our Generative AI curriculum is designed to equip working professionals with hands-on experience to solve real-world problems using advanced AI tools and techniques.”

Batch 4 of the programme is currently underway, and applications for Batch 5 are open until 15 March 2026. The programme continues to focus on providing practical, industry-relevant training aimed at enhancing employability and preparing professionals for future-ready careers in artificial intelligence.

With its robust structure, high learner satisfaction, and growing enrolment figures, IIT Patna’s Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals is fast establishing itself as a benchmark in advanced AI education in India.

Prime Video Sets the Stage for Its Upcoming Hindi Action-Drama Subedaar

Mumbai, Feb 06: Prime Video has made a bold and unapologetic first move to announce its upcoming Hindi action-drama Subedaar, setting the tone with a campaign that refuses to over-explain and instead commands attention.

Subedaar COMING SOON (1)

With striking outdoor billboards carrying the stark message “Don’t F****K with Subedaar,” Prime Video signals the arrival of a gritty, no-holds-barred world—one that speaks through presence and intensity rather than disclaimers. The campaign introduces Anil Kapoor in a powerful new avatar as Subedaar Arjun Maurya, a character defined by authority, resolve, and an unflinching edge.

Designed to intrigue and provoke curiosity, the first look establishes Subedaar as a story that stands firm in its conviction, drawing audiences into a high-stakes narrative driven by raw emotion and action. The campaign’s minimalism underscores its confidence, inviting viewers to experience the world of Subedaar on its own terms.

Subedaar will stream exclusively on Prime Video.
Coming soon. Stay tuned.

Ampere Becomes First Indian E2W Brand to Conquer Kolli Hills, Enters Asia Book of Records

Ampere, from Greaves Electric Mobility, becomes India’s First E2W brand to enter Asia Book of Records by navigating the 70-hairpin bends of Kolli Hills, TN

Bengaluru, Feb 06: Greaves Electric Mobility has been recognized by the prestigious Asia Book of Records to become the first electric two-wheeler brand which successfully ascended Kolli Hills, in Tamil Nadu. Considered one of South India’s most demanding routes, Kolli Hills features 70 hairpin bends while ascending, making any drive a test of endurance.

Ampere, from Greaves Electric Mobility, becomes India’s First E2W brand to enter Asia Book of Records by navigating the 70-hairpin bends of Kolli Hills, TN

The record attempt was conducted on January 7th, 2026, with the ride commencing at 7:00 am and successfully completed in 22 minutes 10 seconds. The ascent was undertaken using GEML’s Ampere Nexus, from Belukurichi to the summit of Kolli Hills. Officials from the Asia Book of Records officially validated and confirmed the success on the same day.

With its 70 hairpin bends, this challenging route showcased and proved Greaves Electric Mobility’s “Built for Bharat” engineering prowess, where vehicles are designed, developed, and validated for India’s diverse and often challenging riding conditions. From steep gradients and broken hill roads to sharp turns and sustained load cycles, GEML’s electric two-wheelers are engineered to handle the toughest terrains the country has to offer.

Taking cognizance of the latest achievement, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director, Greaves Electric Mobility said,

“India’s riding conditions are among the most demanding in the world, and our approach has always been to engineer electric vehicles that are built for Bharat, not just for ideal test environments. The Kolli Hills ascent is a real-world validation of that philosophy. The Ampere Nexus combines safe and durable LFP battery technology with a robust dual-frame chassis that is designed to handle steep gradients, repeated cornering, and sustained load conditions. Achievements like this reaffirm our focus on building electric mobility solutions that can perform reliably across tough terrains.”

The Ampere Nexus achieved this success due to its LFP battery and high tensile steel chassis which provides durability for every condition, work together on demanding terrain. The battery is built to stay stable in a wide range of conditions, operating from –40°C to 60°C, and continues to deliver usable power during long uphill stretches, repeated braking, and changes in load. The warranty offered on the battery reflects the confidence in how it performs over extended everyday use rather than short tests. Ampere Nexus’s advanced motor and software deliver instant torque for climbs, regenerative braking for descents, and traction control for slippery slopes — ensuring smooth, efficient performance across every terrain.

The high strength steel chassis adds to this by keeping the vehicle balanced and predictable, especially while negotiating continuous hairpin bends. With a motor tuned for sustained output and braking that responds consistently, the Nexus remains manageable even on steep climbs. These aspects have been observed over multiple endurance runs and record attempts, and the Kolli Hills ascent serves as another real-world example of how the scooter holds up under demanding conditions.

The recognition by the Asia Book of Records is a first for Greaves Electric Mobility, reinforcing its commitment for India-built products which can cater to the world. With a market presence in Nepal and developing presence in Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Africa, this recognition validates the brand’s endurance, capability and durability.

Furthermore, it reinforces the company’s belief that adoption is driven by real-world experience. As electric two-wheelers move beyond city limits, this milestone demonstrates that vehicles engineered for Indian roads are capable of performing consistently even in demanding and rugged terrain. Built to outlast, outperform and outshine, Greaves Electric Mobility’s products continue to prove their capability across conditions that reflect how India truly rides.

Gritzo Launches SuperMilk Inspired By Iconic Marvel Characters

Gritzo, India’s only Personalised Nutrition brand for Children from the founder of HealthKart, has launched a special-edition range of Marvel-branded SuperMilk for children, bringing together the world of Marvel into everyday nutrition. The range includes eight new products inspired by fan-favourites Iron Man and Black Panther, the range packs delicious flavour with great nutrition, designed to support growing children as they take on everyday adventures.

Inspired by Marvel’s epic storytelling and supported by Gritzo’s science-led approach, the new offerings are designed for children and teens. Young fans can pair the range with newly-launched official accessories featuring Marvel such as Iron Man and Black Panther sippers and keychains. Select packs of SuperMilk also include Marvel-inspired stickers and badges as collectibles.

Sushant Kotian, Brand Head, Gritzo, said, “This collection celebrates confidence, self-expression and the grit that helps children grow into their own potential. With Gritzo SuperMilk, we give parents nutrition options, and this collaboration adds a layer of entertainment and inspiration that we think young fans will naturally connect with.”

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The new range reflects a growing focus on moving beyond baseline nutrition to create everyday moments that feel exciting and meaningful for children. Drawing inspiration from popular Super Hero characters and Gritzo’s commitment to supporting each child’s growth journey, it brings fandom and everyday nutrition in a way that children find exciting.

PHDCCI Backs RBI’s Neutral Stance as Rates Remain Unchanged

RBI Keeps Rates Unchanged; Neutral Stance Backed by Soft Inflation, Strong Growth, but challenging External Sector: PHDCCI

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank has decided to maintain the status quo on the policy repo rate at 5.25%, while maintaining neutral stance, given the backdrop of moderate headline inflation and high GDP growth for 2025-26 at 7.4% amidst geopolitical risks remains, said Mr. Rajeev Juneja.

On the inflation front, RBI’s assessment that headline CPI inflation has remained benign, with projections of 2.1 per cent for 2025–26, provides comfort to both consumers and producers. Moderation in food prices, stable core inflation (excluding food and fuel), and adequate buffer stocks are positive factors for price stability and GDP growth.

At the same time, the RBI’s acknowledgment of potential upside risks from geopolitical tensions, commodity price volatility, and precious metal prices highlights the need for continued vigilance, he added.

Stable interest rate environment, coupled with benign inflation expectations, can help sustain investment momentum. High capacity utilisation, healthy balance sheets of corporates and financial institutions, and robust credit growth are likely to support private sector investment decisions. The government’s continued thrust on capital expenditure is expected to crowd in private investment and strengthen medium-term growth prospects, said Mr. Rajeev Juneja.

Near-term outlook suggests that food supply prospects remain positive on the back of healthy kharif production and favourable rabi sowing, said Mr. Rajeev Juneja.

“RBI’s positive outlook on the external sector, particularly the expectation that merchandise exports may receive a boost from recently concluded EU-India FTA and US tariff deal. Trade diversification will help mitigate risks arising from a volatile global trade environment. However, for sustained export competitiveness continued focus on logistics efficiency, trade facilitation, and access to affordable finance for exporters, especially MSMEs”.

“RBI’s decision is growth-supportive and confidence-enhancing for industry. A predictable monetary policy framework, combined with ongoing structural reforms and fiscal support through public capex, can help India sustain its growth trajectory at the same time navigating global uncertainties. Continued coordination between monetary and fiscal policy to strengthen India’s macroeconomic fundamentals augurs well for long-term economic prospects,” says CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI, Dr. Ranjeet Mehta.

Senores’ Dr. Anar Modi Honoured Among India’s U40 Entrepreneurs by Avendus Wealth Hurun

Feb 6: Dr. Anar Modi has been featured in the prestigious Avendus Wealth Hurun India Uth Series 2025 U40 List, a recognition that celebrates India’s most promising entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who are shaping the nation’s future through vision, resilience and scale.

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The Avendus Wealth Hurun India Uth Series is a merit-based platform that honours young leaders building impactful businesses at an early stage, while demonstrating long-term thinking, governance and responsible leadership. Dr. Modi’s inclusion in the U40 list highlights her entrepreneurial excellence and contribution to India’s evolving business ecosystem.

As Chief Heart Officer at Senores, she leads people-centric initiatives focused on empathy, mental wellbeing, and holistic employee development. Along with that she also leads the CSR department of the organization.

The first edition of the Uth Series felicitation ceremony was held on January 29, 2026, at the Four Seasons Hotel, Worli, Mumbai. The evening brought together achievers from across industries, celebrating their role in India’s growth story and recognising those setting new benchmarks for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Speaking on the recognition, Dr. Anar Modi said,

It is a privilege to be recognised among entrepreneurs who are reshaping the landscape of leadership and innovation in India. This honour reaffirms my belief that when growth is guided by purpose and responsibility, it leads to impact that truly endures.

The Uth Series continues to spotlight trailblazers whose journeys reflect ambition balanced with accountability, and innovation driven by purpose.

NSE MD & CEO Welcomes Union Budget 2026–27, Highlights Fiscal Prudence and Market Reforms

Bhubaneswar, India, Feb 06: The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, today welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, highlighting its balanced approach towards fiscal consolidation, infrastructure-led growth, deepening of financial markets, and strategic investments in future-ready sectors.

Commenting on the Budget, Shri Chauhan said,

“The Union Budget 2026–27—the first presented from Kartavya Bhavan and the ninth consecutive Budget by Hon’ble Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman—reinforces the message that strong economic growth and fiscal discipline can advance together.”

He noted that the Budget remains firmly on the fiscal consolidation path, with the fiscal deficit easing from 4.4% to 4.3% of GDP and debt-to-GDP declining from 56.1% to 55.6%, keeping India aligned with its medium-term target of 50% ±1% by FY31. According to him, this sends a strong signal of macro-economic stability and policy credibility to investors and global markets.

Infrastructure continues to be the central growth driver, with public capital expenditure rising by about 12% to ₹12.2 lakh crore, aimed at crowding in private investment, boosting productivity, and reducing logistics costs.

Shri Chauhan also welcomed measures to deepen financial markets, including calibrated increases in securities transaction tax (STT) on derivatives to curb excessive speculation, monetisation of PSU assets through REITs, the introduction of bond index derivatives, and a stronger market-making framework for corporate bonds. He added that the extension of the income tax exemption window for GIFT City from 10 to 20 years would enhance its attractiveness for foreign portfolio investors.

Urban finance received renewed emphasis through a push for municipal bonds, while regulatory reforms in foreign exchange and capital markets are expected to improve ease of doing business and strengthen India’s global financial integration. Allowing NRIs direct portfolio access to Indian equities, he noted, would help tap long-term diaspora capital.

Highlighting the forward-looking nature of the Budget, Shri Chauhan said it prioritises strategic sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, bio-pharma, rare earths, tourism, and textiles, which are critical for driving innovation, exports, and high-quality employment.

“Overall, Union Budget 2026–27 combines fiscal prudence, infrastructure-led growth, market deepening, and future-ready reforms—laying a strong foundation for India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047,” he said.

The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) is India’s leading stock exchange, operating a modern, fully automated trading platform with nationwide reach and playing a pivotal role in the development of the country’s capital markets.

Ahmedabad to Host National Town & Country Planners Conference from February 6–8

Ahmedabad, India, Feb 6: After a gap of 13 years, Ahmedabad is set to host the National Town & Country Planners Conference from February 6 to 8, bringing together over 500 town planners, policymakers, academicians, and urban development experts from across India to deliberate on the future of regional and urban planning.

74th ITPI National Town Planners- Press Conference

Organised by the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI) with support from the Gujarat Government’s Urban Development Department, the three-day conference will be held on the theme “Proactive Regional Planning and Development to Usher Viksit Bharat.” The event will spotlight emerging perspectives on high-speed rail (bullet train) integration, along with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and GIS-based tools in urban and regional planning.

K. Srinivas, Secretary, Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, will attend as the Chief Guest at the inaugural session. Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain and former Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Keshav Verma will be the Guests of Honour.

The conference comes at a critical juncture for India’s urban transformation, as the country’s urban population is projected to reach 600 million by 2031, accounting for nearly 40% of the total population, with 68 cities expected to cross the 10-lakh population mark. These trends underscore the urgency for balanced, sustainable, and forward-looking regional planning frameworks.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradeep Kapoor, President, ITPI, said,

“As India advances towards its goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, proactive regional planning is essential to manage the pressures of rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion. This conference will serve as a national platform to exchange ideas, learn from successful planning models, and evolve strategies for inclusive and balanced regional development.”

N.K. Patel, Patron and Past President, ITPI, highlighted that the conference will place special emphasis on spatial planning for balanced growth, climate-resilient infrastructure, economic corridor and industrial cluster development, urban-rural continuum management, and institutional mechanisms for effective regional governance, including Metropolitan Planning Committees, Regional Plan Authorities, and inter-state coordination for river basins and economic regions.

R.J. Rawal, Chairman of the Gujarat Regional Chapter of ITPI, presented an overview of ITPI and outlined the objectives and structure of the National Conference.

Key sub-themes of the conference include inclusive infrastructure planning for global events such as the Commonwealth Games proposed to be hosted in Ahmedabad in 2030, AI-driven planning applications, and 100 years of town planning schemes in Gujarat.

Ahmedabad’s metropolitan region will serve as a living case study, with focused discussions on landmark developments such as Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), GIFT City, the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Metro Rail connectivity, major industrial and automobile hubs including Sanand and Becharaji, the Government of Gujarat’s newly announced satellite town policy, and emerging opportunities in integrated regional development.

Deliberations will address policy frameworks, governance models, and implementation strategies to manage rapid urbanisation while ensuring equitable growth. Sessions will also explore planning support for major economic corridors such as DMIC and Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC), strengthening urban-rural linkages through initiatives like AMRUT 2.0, and building climate-resilient infrastructure systems.

With a presence across 26 states and a professional base of over 10,000 town planners, ITPI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s town and country planning discourse. Adani Cement is the preferred brand partner for the conference.

Bharti Hexacom Reports Strong Q3 FY26 Growth with Rising ARPU and Margin Expansion

Gurugram, India, Feb 06: Bharti Hexacom Limited today announced its audited financial results for the third quarter ended December 31, 2025, reporting steady revenue growth, margin expansion, and continued momentum across its mobile and home broadband segments.

Q3 FY26 Key Highlights:

  • Overall customer base: 29.04 million

  • Total revenues: Up 4.8% YoY

  • EBITDA: Up 7.4% YoY; EBITDA margin at 54.3%, expansion of 128 bps YoY

  • EBITDAaL: Up 7.9% YoY; margin at 47.6%, up 136 bps YoY

  • EBIT: Up 8.0% YoY; EBIT margin at 30.3%

  • Net Income (before exceptional items): Up from the same quarter last year

  • Net Income (after exceptional items): Strong YoY growth

  • Capex: Continued investments during the quarter

Operational Performance

Revenues for Q3 FY26 reflected 4.8% YoY growth and 1.8% sequential growth. Mobile revenues grew 3.6% YoY, driven by portfolio premiumisation and a focus on high-quality customers.

ARPU increased to 253, up from 241 in Q3 FY25, supported by rising data usage. Mobile data traffic for the quarter reached 2,022 petabytes, registering a 29.8% YoY increase.

The Company added 1.5 million smartphone data customers over the last 12 months, representing 7.1% YoY growth, while continuing to strengthen network infrastructure with the deployment of 237 new towers during the year.

Homes and Enterprise Services

The Homes, Office and Other Services segment delivered robust performance, recording 50.8% YoY revenue growth, driven by strong customer additions across FTTH and FWA services. The customer base for this segment reached 0.6 million across 117 cities.

Profitability and Balance Sheet

EBITDA and EBIT continued to show strong YoY growth, supported by operating leverage and disciplined cost management. Net Income (before exceptional items) recorded a double-digit YoY increase.

The Company maintained a healthy balance sheet, with Net Debt to EBITDA (annualised) at 1.10x as of December 31, 2025. Net Debt (excluding lease obligations) to EBITDAaL (annualised) improved to 0.48x, compared to 1.03x a year earlier.

Bharti Hexacom’s Q3 FY26 performance reflects disciplined execution, sustained customer growth, and a continued focus on enhancing network quality and digital connectivity across its markets.

Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery Unveils ‘Seal It with Love’ Collection

In celebration of love’s most cherished gestures, Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery unveils its latest collection, Seal It with Love. More than jewellery, these are tokens of profound affection, designed to gift her a dream and honour her unique grace. The collection masterfully bonds the grandeur of signature heirlooms with the intimate poetry of everyday luxury, each piece a permanent seal on a moment, a feeling, and a promise.

Archana Aggarwal (Founder & CEO of Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery)

Crafted in luminous 18k gold and set with the fire of natural diamonds and the captivating hues of rare gemstones, the collection is a narrative of devotion. It offers the perfect language for love, from the declarative to the tender whisper.

“True love deserves a signature,” says Archana Aggarwal. “With Seal It with Love, we crafted a collection that is both a tribute and a treasure. It’s for the one who embodies grace, the dream you wish to honour, and the bond you choose to make eternal. This is the art of sealing a feeling in gold and gemstone.”

The collection takes centre stage with the Diamond Collection Bracelets, where the twilight mystery of the Celeste Blue Bracelet meets the intricate romance and the noble lines of the Eternal Royale Bracelet. For the hand, a gallery of meaning awaits: the bold declaration of the Carnage Carat Ring, the timeless continuum of the Eternal Band Ring, the intertwined destiny of the Eternal Triology Ring, and the deep violet dream of the Starlit Tanzanite Ring.

Ear adornments frame her radiance, from the festive sparkle of Gala Glow Earrings and the modern sculpture of the Lumina Arc Ear Cuff, to the refined Gleaming Chic Earrings. Close to the heart, personalisation becomes precious with the Love Language Pendants, where an initial becomes an heirloom, complemented by the sparkle of the Imperial Gleam Pendant. Delicate chains, like the Stardust Link adorned with Pink Sapphire, trace the contours of the hand with poetic intention.

The neckline is graced with pieces that tell a story: the layered conversation of the Luxe Strings Necklace, the dramatic elegance of Moonfall Elegance Necklace, and the infinite flow of The Continuum Necklace.