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New Delhi, August 8, 2025: On the occasion of the birthday of Shri B.L. Verma, Minister of State in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, National Deputy Chairman of the People Forum of India (NBSS), visited the Minister at his residence to extend warm wishes and discuss collaborative efforts for Viksit Bharat.

During the meeting, Dr. Mallappa commended the Union Government’s focus on inclusive growth, social justice, and transparent governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Shri B.L. Verma ji’s commitment to empowering marginalised communities and ensuring equitable access to resources is truly commendable. The People Forum of India is eager to complement these efforts by mobilising grassroots participation and fostering citizen-led development,” he said.

Shri B.L. Verma welcomed the initiative and said, “The People Forum of India’s dedication to nation-building through civic empowerment and social responsibility aligns closely with our government’s priorities. Building a developed India requires collective action, and I extend my full support to the Forum’s mission.”

Dr. Mallappa extended a formal invitation to Shri Verma to visit Bengaluru and interact with the Forum’s state-level coordinators and volunteer teams actively working on the ground.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Dr. Mallappa added, “Our objective is to create a nationwide framework that combines service, transparency, and people’s participation. Collaborations with visionary leaders like Shri B.L. Verma strengthen our resolve to make Viksit Bharat a reality.”

Mumbai, August 8, 2025: Equirus Group, a leading full-service financial powerhouse, today announced it has received the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) approval to launch its non-deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) — Equirus Finance. This pivotal expansion is designed to create a powerful symbiotic relationship between its established Wealth Management, Investment Banking & Institutional Equities businesses, offering a seamless continuum of capital solutions for its entire client ecosystem.

The launch of Equirus Finance marks a strategic shift for the Group and will add value for its clients. The company aims to provide bespoke lending products like Loan Against Securities, ESOP financing, MLD’s, Structed Finance and other customised secured finance products to its wealth clients & Investment banking clients which include High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs), family offices, and corporate promoters. With an AUM of over USD 2.2 billion, Equirus Wealth has a deep understanding of evolving client needs, allowing for sharper integration of funding and advisory services.

Equirus Finance plans to enable financially astute liquidity solutions for its clients thus enhancing the value of their long-term strategic investments. This strategic fitment creates a virtuous cycle: the Wealth Management team identifies client needs, and the NBFC provides tailored capital solutions, thereby deepening the overall client relationship and creating a more holistic service platform.

As a wealth-focused NBFC, Equirus Finance wants to create a powerful, integrated ecosystem that can seamlessly offer high-value credit products alongside their core investment advisory and portfolio management services. This provides a holistic, one-stop solution for a client’s entire financial lifecycle, from wealth creation to liquidity management. Unburdened by the vast retail banking machinery, NBFCs can foster a more client-centric and entrepreneurial culture. The focus remains on building deep, advisory-led relationships, which is the cornerstone of the modern wealth management industry.

Equirus Finance will adhere to stringent RBI guidelines, ensuring transparency, robust risk management, and ethical lending practices. The company aims to build a diversified loan book exceeding ₹3,000 crore in the near future, reinforcing its commitment to becoming a fully integrated financial services provider.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Amit Arora. COO & Managing Director, Equirus Wealth said, “The application review and approval process clearly articulated the rigorous diligence, constructive engagement and professionalism from the team at Reserve Bank of India. We are happy for the trust & responsibility reposed on our 18-year track record in granting us this license”.

“We have built our reputation on providing insightful advice to our clients; now, with Equirus Finance, we can complement that advice with fund-based services. This integration aligns perfectly with our vision of creating a unified “One Equirus” experience for our clients whereby the platform provides capability of expert advisory insights backed by funding capabilities. We align thus move ahead on our Equirus 2.0 strategy of becoming Indias most trusted financial partner for entrepreneurs, corporates, and HNI families in India.“, he further added.

New Delhi | August 7, 2025

A national-level media workshop titled “AMR: The Silent Pandemic – Let Media Break the Silence” was held today at the Press Club of India, New Delhi. The workshop was organized by ReAct Asia Pacific and brought together media professionals, health experts, and civil society leaders to raise awareness and strengthen reporting on the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is one of the gravest public health threats of our time. In 2021, an estimated 47 lakhs deaths globally were associated with bacterial AMR, including 11 lakhs directly attributable deaths. Recent projections indicate that between 2025 and 2050, bacterial AMR could cause 3.9 crore deaths worldwide — equivalent to three lives lost every minute.

The workshop aimed to equip journalists with scientific knowledge, cross-sectoral insights, and practical tools to report on AMR using a One Health approach—which connects human, animal, and environmental health.

The event opened with remarks by Dr. S. S. Lal, Director of ReAct Asia Pacific, who emphasized the urgency of AMR and the critical role of the media in shaping public awareness and accountability.

A moving session on lived experiences followed, moderated by Dr. Narinder Saini, Chairman of the AMR Standing Committee, Indian Medical Association. Bhakti Chauhan (AMR Taskforce) and Pooja Mishra (HIV advocate) shared powerful personal reflections, shedding light on the human cost of AMR—especially among vulnerable communities. Dr. Saini reiterated the call to “Stop Infection, Fight AMR” and urged journalists to “Act now, act together.”

The One Health panel, chaired by Dr. Sam Prasad (AHF Indiacares), brought together experts across sectors, including Dr. Sangeeta Sharma (Delhi Society for Promotion of Rational Use of Drugs), Dr. Chanchal Bhattacharya (Heifer International), Rajeshwari Sinha (Centre for Science and Environment), and Satish Sinha (Toxics Link). The panel underscored the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in addressing AMR.

A session on health systems strengthening featured Dr. Sarabjit Singh Chadha (FIND) and Dr. Tikesh Bisen (PATH), who spoke on the critical role of diagnostics and infection prevention and control (IPC) in AMR containment.

Dr. Salman Khan (ReAct Africa) guided participants on identifying credible sources for science reporting. This was followed by Shobha Shukla (Global AMR Media Alliance), who shared insights on media trends and the challenges of reporting AMR in India.

A key highlight was the launch of the India Chapter of the AMR Media Alliance by Bobby Ramakant, who also led the concluding group discussion. The event closed with a clear message: media must be at the forefront of amplifying solutions to the AMR crisis.

Key Messages for the Community:

• Antibiotics are lifesaving — but only when used correctly.
  Misuse and overuse lead to drug-resistant infections that are harder and costlier to treat.
• Not all infections need antibiotics.
  Colds, flu, and many fevers are caused by viruses — antibiotics don’t work against them.
• Always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed.
  Don’t stop midway, skip doses, or self-medicate.
• Get tested when needed.
  Diagnostics help identify whether antibiotics are necessary and which ones are effective.
• Good hygiene prevents infections.
  Simple steps like handwashing, clean water, sanitation, and vaccination reduce the need for antibiotics.
• AMR affects everyone — not just hospital patients.
  Resistant infections can occur in the community, in food, and through animals or the environment.
• You have the right to ask.
  Ask your doctor: “Is this antibiotic really necessary?
• Antibiotics are a shared resource.
  Protecting them today ensures they remain effective for future generations.

IRM India Affiliate Licenses Mahindra University to Launch South India’s First Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management

Hyderabad, August 7, 2025 — The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) India Affiliate, the Indian arm of the world’s leading certifying body for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) exams across 140 countries, has announced a strategic collaboration with Mahindra University to establish South India’s first Global Centre for ERM. This significant partnership highlights the increasing demand for structured and internationally benchmarked risk education in the region, particularly amidst today’s volatile and interconnected global environment, as disclosed in a press note issued in the city today.

The Centre was officially launched a couple of days back by Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, in the presence of Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO, IRM India Affiliate, Dr. Shivdasini S Amin, Head- Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management, faculty, and students.

The newly established Centre will act as a dedicated hub for advancing IRM’s globally recognised ERM qualifications, risk-focused research, faculty development, and capacity building. It aims to nurture a new generation of risk-intelligent leaders capable of helping organisations across sectors anticipate and navigate complex challenges across industries.

Designed with a focus on academic excellence and practical engagement, the Centre will feature expansive physical and digital infrastructure to support continuous learning. It will house a curated collection of over 150 books and publications spanning risk management, strategy, governance, and leadership. An integrated online knowledge resource centre developed by IRM India will provide access to case studies, global risk reports, and white papers. To foster professional connections and peer learning, the Centre will include a networking arena for students, executives, and faculty to engage with visiting experts and industry leaders. As a tribute to global thought leadership, a Hall of Fame will celebrate notable risk influencers from around the world. Additionally, the Centre will feature a comprehensive risk taxonomy that provides structured classifications and definitions of over 300 types of enterprise risks, supporting academic, research, and industry applications.

Through this collaboration, Mahindra University, with the support of IRM India, will train students, professionals, and senior executives in ERM competencies aligned with IRM’s Global Level 1 curriculum. The Centre will also function as a regional think tank, driving research on emerging risk areas such as cyber threats, ESG exposures, climate change, geopolitical instability, and supply chain resilience. Faculty development programmes, policy advocacy, and sector-specific thought leadership will amplify the Centre’s impact across academia and industry.

Speaking at the launch of the Centre, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor, Mahindra University, said, “At Mahindra University, we believe that future-readiness is the cornerstone of education. Our partnership with the Institute of Risk Management – India Affiliate is more than an academic collaboration — it is a statement of intent to nurture leaders who can navigate uncertainty with insight, resilience, and integrity. The IRM India Affiliate Centre at MU will serve as a crucible for research, learning, and thought leadership in risk management—an area that is no longer optional, but essential for sustainable progress.”

Dr. Yajulu Medury, Vice-Chancellor, Mahindra University, added, “The launch of the IRM India Affiliate Centre at Mahindra University is a forward-looking initiative that reinforces our interdisciplinary approach to education. This partnership aligns with our long-term vision of promoting academic excellence, industry-relevant skills, and internationalisation under the National Education Policy 2020. By embedding risk management into the core of academic inquiry and practice, we are equipping our students to become strategic thinkers and responsible decision-makers. We are proud to collaborate with IRM India Affiliate in creating a new generation of professionals who will shape resilient organisations and societies.

Mr. Hersh Shah, CEO of IRM India Affiliate and India’s Youngest Enterprise Risk Expert, stated, “Our collaboration with Mahindra University marks a pivotal step in democratising access to high-quality risk management education in India. South India is home to dynamic industries such as information technology, manufacturing, infrastructure, finance, defence, and logistics—sectors that face an increasingly complex risk landscape. The establishment of this Centre reflects a shared commitment to developing risk-intelligent individuals and organisations — a vital step toward building a resilient world. May every individual who walks these halls be inspired to lead with foresight, responsibility, and purpose.”

Mahindra University has already demonstrated a strong track record in preparing students for IRM’s global ERM exams since 2021. The launch of the Global Centre for ERM further elevates its role as a regional anchor for risk education and leadership. The Centre will collaborate closely with industry bodies, regulators, and corporate partners to ensure academic offerings remain contextually relevant and aligned with real-world needs. It will also provide a range of programmes in collaboration with IRM India to enhance governance and strategic risk capabilities across the public and private sectors. This partnership represents a significant contribution to India’s broader vision of building a resilient, risk-ready nation powered by risk-intelligent leadership and international collaboration.

Pharmaceutical company Medistep Healthcare’s IPO Price Fixed at Rs.43 Per Share; Issue Opens tomorrow

New Delhi, August 7, 2025: Medistep Healthcare Limited, a rapidly growing player in India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare market, has fixed the price of its upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO) at Rs.43 per equity share. The offering comprises up to 37,44,000 equity shares with a face value of Rs.10 each. The IPO, which is being offered through a fixed price issue, will open for subscription on Friday, August 8, 2025, and close on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

The lot size for the issue has been set at 3,000 equity shares. The shares are proposed to be listed on the Emerge Platform of National Stock Exchange of India Limited on August 18, 2025.

Of the total offer, not less than 17,79,000 equity shares are reserved for retail individual investors, not more than 17,76,000 equity shares are allocated for non-institutional investors, and 1,89,000 equity shares are reserved for the market maker portion. Fast Track Finsec Private Limited is acting as the lead manager to the issue, and Cameo Corporate Services Limited is the registrar.

Medisteps intends to raise approximately Rs 16.09 crore from the ipo. The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilised to fund capital expenditure towards the purchase of plant and machinery for expansion at the company’s existing manufacturing facility, to meet working capital requirements, to meet general corporate purposes and to meet out the Issue Expenses.

Founded in June 2023, Medistep Healthcare Limited is engaged in the manufacturing of sanitary pads and energy powders, and in the trading of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, surgical, and intimate care products through an established distribution network. The company expanded its footprint in 2024 with the acquisition of the business of M/s MG Pharma, a proprietorship concern.

The company reported revenue from operations of Rs.4,965.48 lakh in FY25, compared to Rs.3,907.19 lakh in FY24. EBITDA stood at Rs.560 lakh for FY25, up from Rs.454.2 lakh in the previous year, while profit after tax (PAT) rose to Rs.414.42 lakh from Rs.332.76 lakh.

Following the issue, the company’s equity share capital will increase from 1,04,65,546 shares to 1,42,09,546 shares, with a post-issue implied market capitalization of Rs.61.10 crore.

Commenting on the IPO, Mr. Girdhari Lal Prajapati, Managing Director, Medistep Healthcare Limited, said, “The proceeds from the IPO will strategically support our expansion efforts and reinforce our footprint in both domestic and international markets. Our diversified and growing product portfolio positions us well to capitalize on the rising global and domestic demand for health and hygiene solutions.”

Bengaluru/ Delhi, August 6, 2025

Bengaluru witnessed a milestone for Indian basketball today as YuviPep, a new-age education company transforming over 100,000 student innovators across 100+ schools, officially launched the Ulhas YuviPep Basketball Academy (UYBA) and its athlete development app.

Led by Ulhas KS, the first Indian to play professionally in Europe and to captain a UK university basketball team, UYBA aims to raise Indian basketball to international standards, starting from the school level. Its bold vision: help India compete on the global stage, with an eye on the 2036 Olympic Games.

Today marks a defining moment for Indian basketball as Ulhas YuviPep Basketball Academy (UYBA) and its official athlete development app are formally launched in Bengaluru with a mission of raising Indian basketball to the global stage. Designed to level up school basketball from the grassroots, UYBA introduces a long-term system to build international-caliber players right from their formative years.

A Vision That Starts in Schools

UYBA’s mission is to turn school basketball from a hobby into a serious, structured pathway to professional success. Through position-specific coaching, sports science-backed training, mental conditioning, and international exposure, the academy provides student-athletes with the kind of preparation rarely available at the grassroots level.

Already partnered with:

• BS International School (Electronic City)
• Sri Sri Ravishankar Vidya Mandir Bangalore East (Gunjur)
• BGS International Residential School (Kengeri)

UYBA is building elite training hubs equipped to match NBA and Euro League methodologies.

The UYBA App – Taking Indian Basketball Global
This digital tool supports students, parents, and schools in navigating long-term athlete development.

• Register for NBA & EuroLeague-level on-campus training near you
• Join global exposure camps in Serbia and the USA
• Book 1-on-1 mentorship sessions with Ulhas KS
• Get real-time updates on programs and events
• Access pathways to university and pro-level basketball

Global Exposure
The Serbia Connection
Through our official partnership with Sportstars and the Milan Gurović Academy, UYBA’s Serbia International Camps will offer Indian players elite training under Olympian and EuroLeague legend Milan Gurović. Athletes will develop global-level skill and mindset in one of the world’s top basketball ecosystems.

The USA Connection
UYBA is proud to partner with Stockton University and Spire Academy (USA), opening direct pathways for Indian players to access world-class training, student-athlete opportunities, and academic-athletic balance in the United States. This tie-up brings Indian basketball talent to the global stage like never before.

Official Physio Partner
Arunalaya by Dr. Chakshu, India’s leading physiotherapy center, is the official physiotherapy partner of UYBA across India, committed to safeguarding our players’ health and elevating their performance to the next level.

“India has the talent. What we lack is structured opportunity. UYBA is my response to that gap. We’re not building hype, we’re building athletes.”
— Ulhas KS, Co-Founder, UYBA

New Delhi , August 6, 2025: RBI maintains status quo on policy repo rate at 5.5%, driven by strong economic fundamentals, softening inflation, robust domestic demand and government capex.

We appreciate the RBI MPC decision to maintain status quo on the policy repo rate at 5.5%. This will boost India’s growth despite tariff related volatilities, said Mr. Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI.

This RBI decision will maintain the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate at 5.25%, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 5.75%, he said.

The MPC has decided to maintain the neutral monetary policy stance driven by strong domestic economic conditions, he said.

Real GDP growth for FY 2025-26 is projected at 6.5%, and CPI inflation at 3.1%, he added.

Going forward, India will continue to grow resiliently and robustly, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and price, financial and political stability, said Mr Jain.

Over 130 Indian (MLAs &MLCs), 24 Legislators from Karnataka to Attend Global Legislative Summit in Boston, US, Under NLC Bharat 2025

Bengaluru, 6th Aug 2025 : In a significant step towards strengthening global democratic engagement, 24 legislators including Shri Manjunath Bhandari, MLC from Dakshina Kannada Local Authorities constituency; Shri M. K. Pranesh, Deputy Chairman of the Karnataka Legislative Council from Chikmagalur Local Authorities constituency; Shri U. T. Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly; Shri Ashok M. Pattan, MLA from Ramdurg constituency; Shri Badarli Hampanagouda, MLA from Sindhanur constituency; Shri T. A. Sharavana, MLC elected by MLAs; Shri C. B. Suresh Babu, MLA from Chikkanayakanahalli Assembly constituency; Shri Arvind Bellad, MLA from Hubli-Dharwad West constituency ; Shri Yashvantarayagouda Vittalagouda Patil from Indi constituency; Smt. Balkhees Banu, Smt. Hemalatha Nayak, Smt. Bharathi Shetty, Shri Veerendra Puppy, Shri Bhoj Raj, Shri Mane Srinivas; Shri N. Ravikumar, Shri Dineesh Gooligowda; Shri Basavaraj Horatti, Shri Suja Kushalappa and Shri Ivan Dsouza; Ashok Kumar Rai; Gururaj Shetty Gantihole; Gurme Suresh Shetty; Bhimanna T. Naik all Members of the Legislative Council will participate in the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Summit in Boston, USA, from August 4 to 6, 2025.

The initiative for Bharatiya delegation of legislators is being facilitated by National Legislators’ Conference Bharat (NLC Bharat), a pioneering platform dedicated to empowering Indian legislators and fostering national and international legislative collaboration, cooperation and dialogue for sharing knowledge and best practices.

The delegation—comprising Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) and Members of Legislative Councils (MLCs) from over 24 Indian states and representing a diverse spectrum of 21 political parties—embodies the rich and inclusive tapestry of Bharat’s democratic leadership. This historic journey began in 2024, when a pioneering group of 50 legislators participated in the Legislative Summit held in Louisville, USA—an initiative unprecedented in independent Bharat and undertaken neither by the government nor any other institution.

Now, in a landmark moment, the delegation has grown to an unprecedented 130 legislators—marking the largest-ever Indian legislative presence at any global conference. This first-of-its-kind endeavour aims to foster cross-border learning, enhance legislative capacity, and provide exposure to international best practices in governance and lawmaking.

Rooted in the success of the inaugural NLC Bharat 2023 in Mumbai, this international visit is part of a long-term vision to create non-partisan, knowledge-driven platforms for legislators. At the NCSL Summit, legislators from Bharat will participate alongside over 2,000 U.S. legislators and more than 7000 legislators from different parts of the world in sessions addressing AI in governance, digital democracy, cybersecurity, voter confidence, and policy innovation.

Dr. Rahul Karad, Founder, NLC Bharat, said, “This is not just a delegation. It is a living expression of Bharat’s democratic strength and unity in diversity — never before has such a large and representative group of Honourable MLAs and MLCs come together to engage the world on such a scale. What makes this moment even more special is the spirit behind it — the desire to learn, to grow, and to lead with wisdom and vision. When our legislators step into this international arena, they carry not only their personal aspirations, but the hopes of a billion citizens and the essence of an ancient civilization. Our goal is simple yet profound — to build meaningful bridges across democracies, to learn from each other, and to kindle conversations that transcend borders and strengthen governance.”

The itinerary includes academic orientation programs on U.S. legislative systems, visits to local institutions and state assemblies, and meetings with Indian-origin leaders across politics, academia, and industry. These engagements aim to foster meaningful dialogue between the world’s two largest democracies and deepen ties with the Indian diaspora.

The Boston delegation is part of a larger vision to create a series of international exposure programs for Indian legislators, with future visits being planned to countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Through this structured engagement model, NLC Bharat aspires to build a stronger, more informed, and globally connected legislative ecosystem—one that enhances India’s democratic credentials and positions Bharat as a leader in democratic innovation on the global stage.

By – Dr. POONAM TANDON, Chief Investment Officer IndiaFirst Life

“The MPC has kept the repo rates unchanged. The MPC has reduced the inflation numbers from 3.7% to 3.1%. The growth rate has been kept at 6.5% despite the uncertain global uncertainty. The policy stance is kept neutral. The MPC has appropriately used all the tools in the last 2 quarters to infuse liquidity and rate cuts and will see the effects of this move. The inflation forecast will be on the rise and will perhaps focus more on the core inflation. The 10-year G-sec rate has increased by 5 bps as the market has realised that the Governor may not give further rate cuts and also that we are in the last leg of the interest rates cutting cycle. Overall, the policy was very balanced and on expected lines. The Governor also announced T-Bill SIP for retail investors under the platform of RBI direct, which is a welcome step.”

Pune, 05 August 2025: Fibe’s NBFC entity, EarlySalary Services Pvt. Ltd. has raised INR 225 crore through Non-Convertible Debentures (NCD) issuance with a face value of INR 1,00,000/- each. The fund raise was completed in July 2025 and saw participation from multiple institutional investors including Franklin Templeton Alternative Investments Fund, India (Franklin Templeton AIF), which had subscribed INR 20 crore in the primary issuance.

The funds raised will further accelerate the company’s innovation-led growth and strengthen its lending operations, addressing the credit demand from young, tech-savvy and salaried individuals.

“We have always remained focused on maintaining asset quality while working to diversify and institutionalize our funding sources. With the additional debt capital, we will continue to serve the credit needs of India’s rising, digitally savvy population. The participation of institutional investors, especially Franklin Templeton AIF India, is not just a reflection of confidence in our long-term vision, but the digital lending sector as a whole. It will further support our growth journey and help us cater to a wider customer base,” said Ashish Goyal, Whole-time Director, EarlySalary Services Pvt. Ltd.

Founded in 2015, Fibe which started with the Salary Advance segment, has expanded into multiple adjacent categories, to cater to the unmet needs of salaried professionals. It offers healthcare and education financing, solar rooftop financing, Loan Against Mutual Funds and assistance in digital FDs.