By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces 

If you think getting a home loan is just about having a decent credit score and a steady job, think again. Banks and NBFCs have a whole playbook of evaluation criteria  some you know about, many you don’t. This festive season, as you prepare to make that dream home purchase, let me pull back the curtain on how lenders really assess whether you’re a worthy risk or not.

The Obvious Stuff

Banks evaluate home loans using many criteria some standard, some not so obvious or known. Initially, banks consider factors such as a credit score that typically hovers around 750, a consistent source and flow of income, the borrower’s employment history, an age range ideally between 23 and 60, the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio, and the market value of the property.

So far, so good. Most of us know this. But here’s where it gets tricky.

The Not-So-Obvious Stuff

However, they also look at the developer’s and project’s approval status and whether the project’s location is in good standing. In fact, some areas are quietly blacklisted, and many banks maintain an internal risk assessment of specific locations and housing societies. Yes, that’s right. Your dream apartment could be in a location that banks have quietly red-flagged.

Also, banks might know about payment defaults by previous buyers in the project you’re interested in (you obviously have no clue about that), and it affects how favourably they see it.

They will also look for:

–  Defaults by previous tenants in that project and property
–  Whether your spouse is also earning, how much, and how much it contributes to the household income
–  The number of dependants you have
–  Your educational qualifications, and
–  The reputation and financial standing of the company you work for.

When The Economy Speaks

During times of economic downturns, banks tend to become less willing to lend due to an increased risk of defaults. The state of the economy also affects factors like inter bank liquidity and funding costs, non-performing asset levels in different sectors, including housing, current residential market sentiment, employment trends, and consumer confidence scores. Depending on global events and their impact on India, banks will also consider geopolitical risks and how these factors influence the internal stress-test projections of the bank or non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).

In other words, your loan application isn’t being evaluated in isolation. The bank is looking at global economic trends and what’s happening in the housing sector overall and even running stress tests on their portfolios. You could be a perfect borrower on paper, but if the timing isn’t right from a macroeconomic perspective, you might face hurdles.

What’s In Your Control (And What Isn’t)

Many of these factors are beyond your control. You can’t change where a property is located if you’ve already fallen in love with it. You can’t control global economic conditions or your builder’s reputation with banks. You cannot suddenly transform your employer into a blue-chip company, or decrease the number of family members who rely on you.

But there’s still plenty you CAN control. For that, the scout’s motto – Be Prepared – is of utmost importance.

Your Home Loan Readiness Checklist

Before you apply for that home loan this festive season, tick these boxes:

Financial Health Check

–  Credit score – is it 750 or above? (check your CIBIL score online.)
–  Your debt-to-income ratio – is it below 40%? (your EMIs shouldn’t exceed 40% of your monthly income.)
–  Have at least 3-6 months of salary slips and bank statements ready
–  Also keep your income tax returns for the last 2-3 years filed and available
–  Existing loans and credit card dues – have they been paid on time for at least 6 months?

Property Due Diligence

–  RERA registration verified for the project
–  The developer’s track record researched (delivery timelines, quality, approvals)
–  Property location checked with multiple banks (ask your relationship manager informally)
–  Society’s maintenance and payment history reviewed

Documentation Readiness

–  Identity and address proofs
–  Employment proof and appointment letter
–  Property documents (sale agreement, NOC, approvals)
–  Bank statements showing healthy cash flow

The Dos and Don’ts

DO:

–  Maintain a clean credit history for at least 6-12 months before applying
–  Close unnecessary credit cards and loans to improve your debt-to-income ratio
–  Choose properties from reputable developers with RERA-approved projects
–  Research the property location thoroughly – talk to residents, check online forums, use a pro version AI chat tool to dig deeper
–  Include your spouse’s income if applicable and possible – dual incomes strengthen applications
–  Apply during stable economic periods when interest rates are favorable (such as this festive season!)
–  Maintain steady employment for at least 2 years before applying

DON’T:

–  Switch jobs just before applying for a loan
–  Make multiple loan inquiries at once – it hurts your credit score
–  Try to hide existing debts or liabilities – you can’t hide such facts from banks, and trying to is a red flag for them
–  Exceed your budget just because the bank approves a higher amount
–  Ignore the property’s micro-market reputation
–  Apply for new credit cards or loans during your home loan process
–  Assume everything is okay before you get final sanction

The Bottom Line

Understanding how banks think gives you a strategic advantage. While you can’t control everything, knowing what matters helps you prepare better, choose smarter, and increase your chances of approval. This festive season, go into your home loan application with your eyes wide open, your documentation ready, and a realistic understanding of what banks are really looking for.

After all, buying a home may be the biggest financial decision in your life. You owe it to yourself to get it right.

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, 20th October, 2025: Bandhan Mutual Fund has unveiled its latest festive campaign, Ads Ki Suno, a witty take on sale advertising that encourages people to see festive price tags in a new light. While the festive season is often about discounts and deals, Bandhan Mutual Fund turns those same price numbers into reminders of smarter financial choices.

At the heart of the campaign is a film that reimagines festive price ads, transforming what usually feels like irresistible bargains into signals carrying a different message. It offers a playful reminder that numbers can take us on a spending spree, or they can guide us towards financial freedom. The choice is always ours.

Vishal Kapoor, CEO of Bandhan AMC, said, “The festive season surrounds us with sale ads and price tags that make almost everything feel like a bargain. With Ads Ki Suno, we wanted to capture that familiar part of the season and bring a new perspective, not to say don’t spend, but to remind ourselves to spend mindfully and also invest wisely. Because financial well-being isn’t about restraint, it’s about enjoying today while planning for tomorrow. The way we use our money in these moments can make the difference between a purchase that fades and an investment that endures, one that keeps adding value over time.”

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited announces USFDA Final Approval for Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL

Vadodara, 20^th October, 2025: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited (Alembic) today announced that it has received final approval from the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL Single-Dose Vials, 200 mg/5 mL and 400 mg/10 mL (40 mg/mL) Multiple-Dose Vials. The approved ANDA is therapeutically equivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Kenalog-40 Injectable Suspension, of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP is indicated for various autoimmune, inflammatory, and other conditions where oral therapy is not feasible. Refer label for a detailed indication.

Triamcinolone Acetonide Injectable Suspension USP, 40 mg/mL, has an estimated market size of US$ 96 million for twelve months ending June 2025 according to IQVIA.

Alembic has a cumulative total of 227 ANDA approvals (206 final approvals and 21 tentative approvals) from USFDA.

Honda India Foundation Hands Over 50 Customized Honda CB350 Quick Response Team (QRT) Vehicles to Karnataka Police under Project ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’

Bengaluru, 20th October 2025 : As part of its efforts to help build safer communities and to take a step forward towards Honda’s global vision of a collision-free society by 2050, Honda India Foundation (HIF), the CSR arm for all Honda group of companies in India has handed over 50 specially equipped Quick Response Team (QRT) vehicles to the Karnataka Police as part of its ‘Sadak Sahayak: Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jiwan’ project. This initiative is part of HIF’s broader road safety and community welfare programme, aimed at creating safer roads and strengthening public safety mechanisms throughout the state.

As part of a larger national effort, HIF aims to handover 300 QRT vehicles by the end of this year across Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Recently, a total of 200 Honda QRT vehicles were handed over to Gujarat, Chandigarh and Rajasthan police to strengthen road safety initiatives. The collaboration reflects Honda India Foundation’s continued focus on public-private partnerships in advancing road safety and community resilience. The initiative highlights a shared vision for safer roads and a better-managed traffic ecosystem.

The ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. G Parameshwara, Hon’ble Home Minister, Karnataka as the Chief guest, along with Shri. Tushar Girinath, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Government Home Department and Dr. M.A. Saleem, IPS, Director General and Inspector General of Police, Karnataka, Shri. Seemant Kumar Singh, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru and Shri. Kartik Reddy, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Bengaluru as Guests of Honour.

Shri. Prabhu Nagaraj, Operating Officer, Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India and Shri. Sunil Mittal, Operating Officer, Narsapura Plant, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India also attended the ceremony to mark the handover of QRT vehicles, along with other key officials from Government of Karnataka and members from Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India.

The QRT vehicles, based on Honda CB350, are equipped with revolving flashers and blinkers, a public announcement system, siren, flashlight, side and rear storage boxes and two Honda safety helmets. These enhancements aim to help police teams respond more quickly in high-density and sensitive areas. The vehicles are intended to strengthen emergency response and empower police personnel with better tools to carry out their responsibilities effectively and safely. Designed for mobility and agility, they enhance the ability of officers to reach critical locations faster, saving lives, reducing injuries and improving on-ground law enforcement efficiency.

Indian Neonatology Team Publishes Pivotal Study in Lancet Clinical Medicine Showing Many Newborn Infections Can Be Treated With Shorter Antibiotic Courses

Hyderabad, 20th October 2025: A team of Indian neonatologists (i.e., newborn specialist doctors), including Dr Saikiran D, a Consultant Neonatologist at Fernandez Hospital, has published an important study in the UK-based journal, Lancet Clinical Medicine, which shows that shorter antibiotic courses are often as effective as traditional longer courses for common serious newborn infections.

Antibiotics save lives, but using them too often or too long can cause antibiotic resistance that makes infections harder to treat. It also exposes vulnerable newborns to side effects, longer hospital stays, and higher costs. Premature and sick newborns receive antibiotics more frequently and for longer periods than older children and adults. Doctors have long suspected that shorter antibiotic courses may be sufficient in many cases, but strong and credible evidence has been limited until now.

During this study, researchers systematically reviewed and statistically combined data comparing different antibiotic durations for serious newborn infections. The authors also studied strategies that depend on “biomarkers”, which will help doctors to see if an infection is reducing and decide if they can stop the antibiotic course. Certain blood tests indicate the presence of infection, and these clues are called “biomarkers”.

Key findings of this important study

• About 7 days of antibiotics may be enough in most cases, instead of the usually recommended 10–14 days, without added risk.
• Stopping treatment when the “biomarker” blood tests turn negative typically leads to shorter antibiotic courses that are effective and adequate for many newborn infections.
• Evidence comparing antibiotic courses of 3–4 days vs 5–7 days was unclear, highlighting the need for further research studies.
• There were insufficient data to draw firm conclusions for urinary infection, meningitis, and fungal infections. Thus, these are priority areas for future research.

It is possible to safely use shorter antibiotic courses for proven blood infections in newborns, and if widely adopted, it could help fight antibiotic resistance, reduce hospital infections, and improve resource use, especially in hospital settings that have patient overload or limited facilities.

Dhoomimal Gallery concludes its two-week exhibition celebrating India’s next generation of contemporary artists

New Delhi, October 20, 2025: Dhoomimal Gallery, India’s oldest modern art gallery, successfully concluded the 34th Annual Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation (RJMF) Exhibition with an inspiring Awards Ceremony that marked the grand culmination of the two-week-long showcase. From 60 participants selected out of over 500 nationwide entries, five exceptional emerging artists, Santanu Dey, Shuvam Sen, Naina Somani, Soumitra Das, and Ayesha Sultana Pramanik; were honoured as winners.

This year, in recognition of the extraordinary quality and diversity of submissions, the jury decided to extend the awards to five winners instead of the usual four—a reflection of the remarkable creative talent on display. Each awardee received ₹1,00,000 along with continued mentorship and opportunities to advance their artistic journey.

Speaking about the awards, Uday Jain, Director of Dhoomimal Gallery, said, “This year’s edition truly stood out for the calibre and originality of the participating artists. The jury’s decision to honour five awardees is a testament to the depth of emerging talent in India today. The Foundation remains deeply committed to nurturing these voices and continuing my father’s vision of supporting the future of Indian art.”

The winners were selected by a distinguished jury panel comprising Vibha Galhotra, Rekha Rodwittiya, Anish Gawande, Arunkumar H.G., and Ina Puri—renowned figures representing diverse perspectives across art, curation, literature, and cultural discourse.

The 34th RJMF Exhibition, held from September 29 to October 15, 2025, presented over 120 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, and digital art. The showcase drew strong participation from collectors, curators, artists, and art enthusiasts, reaffirming Dhoomimal Gallery’s role as a leading platform for emerging Indian talent.

Instituted in 1991 by Smt. Uma Jain in memory of Ravi Jain (1936–2000)—the visionary gallerist who transformed Dhoomimal into a cornerstone of Indian modern art—the Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation continues to carry forward his belief that “for the art movement to perpetuate and grow, we must constantly nurture new talent.”

Over the past three decades, the RJMF Exhibition and Awards have evolved into one of India’s most respected platforms for emerging contemporary artists, offering visibility and recognition at formative stages of their careers.

Today, under the leadership of Uday and Sunaina Jain, the Foundation and Dhoomimal Gallery together remain dedicated to promoting contemporary voices, mentoring young artists, and shaping a vibrant ecosystem for Indian art.

This Bhai Dooj, celebrate your bond with a gift that blends timeless elegance and everyday wearability. Camicissima Milano presents its collection of premium linen shirts, ideal for the modern man’s festive wardrobe, crafted with the finesse of Italian tailoring and designed to offer both style and comfort.

Made from lightweight, breathable linen, these shirts are perfect for India’s festive season, keeping you cool and sharp from morning rituals to evening celebrations. Available in a rich palette of pastels, earthy tones, and classic whites, each shirt is a versatile addition to any celebration—be it Bhai Dooj gatherings, Diwali dinners, or winter weddings.

As part of the festive cheer, Camicissima Milano is also offering special bundle offers, making it even easier to gift in style while getting great value. Whether you’re shopping for a brother, husband, father, or friend, these shirts are a meaningful, fashionable choice.

Pair them with tailored trousers or layer under a jacket for a look that’s rooted in tradition yet effortlessly modern.

Bengaluru, 18th October 2025: Solidarity, empowerment, and the drive to bring change were on full display today as hundreds of bikers rallied through the city to promote one powerful cause—early detection and awareness of breast cancer. The Pink Bike Rally, organized by Aster Whitefield Hospital, witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 200 super bike riders eager to amplify the message of proactive health screening and community support, reflecting the hospital’s ongoing commitment to women’s health.

The rally started and concluded near Aster Whitefield Hospital and covered key locations, including Varthur Kodi, Brookfield, and Kundalahalli Signal. Riders wore pink attire and carried placards with awareness messages, transforming the cityscape into a rolling campaign of hope and empowerment. More than just a symbolic ride, the event also marked the launch of Aster Whitefield’s specialized Breast Clinic, further cementing the hospital’s promise to focus on preventive and comprehensive women’s care.

“This rally is more than a visual statement—it represents the strength of collective action,” said Global Director – Aster International Institute of Oncology – GCC & India, Lead Consultant – Surgical & Gynaecological Oncology & Robotic Surgeon, HIPEC & PIPAC Super-specialist;

Aster Whitefield Hospital.  “Early detection remains the most powerful weapon we have against breast cancer, and initiatives like this encourage people to take action, get screened, and spread awareness.”

Adding to this, Dr. Ashwin K R, HOD – Department of Surgical Oncology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said, “Our goal is to transform awareness into consistent action. With the launch of our Breast Clinic, we aim to provide women with easy access to specialized screening, diagnosis, and treatment—all under one roof.”

In India, breast cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women, accounting for one out of every four cancer cases. Reports suggest that nearly 50% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, primarily due to a lack of awareness and limited access to screening facilities. Even today, late detection remains the leading cause of increased mortality among women with breast cancer.

Initiatives like the Pink Bike Rally not only reflect the hospital’s larger vision of fostering community-centric healthcare but also encourage individuals to take charge of their health and support those affected by cancer. Through regular screening drives, educational workshops, and community programs, Aster Whitefield aims to improve outcomes and save lives by promoting early detection and accessible breast health services.

India, 18th October 2025: When your garage looks like a car museum, how do you make each ride stand out? For India’s biggest celebrities, the answer lies in a small but powerful detail the number plate. Whether it’s lucky digits, emotional codes, or just a flash of personality, these plates are rolling reflections of their owners.

And if you’re wondering where they find rides worthy of those iconic numbers welcome to Big Boy Toyz (BBT), the brand that’s made owning a dream machine as real as a swipe of the credit card.

Here’s a spin through seven star-studded plates and the stories they tell.

1. Shah Rukh Khan – 0555

The Signature: Every car in SRK’s enviable fleet wears 0555.

The Story: He’s never revealed the reason behind it and that’s peak Shah Rukh. A mix of mystery and magnetism, his cars mirror the man himself: classic, consistent, and impossible to ignore.

2. Ranbir Kapoor – 0008 / 8000

The Signature: The Kapoor’s’ favourite digit 8.

The Story: For Ranbir, 8 is more than a number. It’s a love letter to his mother, Neetu Kapoor, born on July 8. Every engine roar is a little reminder of home and heart.

3. Ranveer Singh – 6969

The Signature: 6969, stamped boldly across his machines.

The Story: Because Ranveer doesn’t do subtle. No numerology, no emotion just full-throttle personality. Quirky, bold, and a little outrageous, it’s his way of saying, “I drive it like I live it.”

4. Amitabh Bachchan – 0002 (or anything that adds up to 2)

The Signature: Big B likes his numbers balanced.

The Story: A firm believer in numerology, Amitabh’s cars almost always circle back to 2. It’s his personal formula for harmony and perhaps a nod to the duality of stardom and simplicity.

5. Sanjay Dutt – 4545

The Signature: 4545 rules his garage.

The Story: Sanju Baba’s number plate is his good luck charm. Through decades of highs and lows, one thing’s remained constant 4545, a symbol of faith and resilience.

6. Rohit Sharma – 3015

The Signature: 3015 shines on his Lamborghini Urus SE.

The Story:  30 is his jersey number; 15 marks his children’s birthdays. It’s the perfect fusion of the Hitman’s professional glory and personal pride precision and emotion in equal drive.

7. Sachin Tendulkar – 9999

The Signature: The Master Blaster’s Ferrari 360 Modena once flaunted MH01 AD 9999.

The Story: A believer in the power of 9, Sachin stuck with his lucky number long after selling the car. To him, it’s not a plate it’s a personal emblem of achievement.

When luxury meets legacy: The BBT Connection

These stars may have garages full of Ferraris, Bentleys, and Lamborghinis but their love for wheels isn’t just about horsepower; it’s about identity.

That’s where Big Boy Toyz comes in the country’s ultimate destination for pre-owned luxury cars. Think of it as the backstage pass to the world of premium machines, where every car is vetted, polished, and primed for its next celebrity story.

From the iconic 555s to the sentimental 8s, BBT has witnessed countless dream cars find their perfect owners and some even find their lucky numbers. Because owning luxury isn’t just about driving fast; it’s about driving your story.

Mumbai, 18th October, 2025: Shoppers Stop Ltd., a leading department store with premier fashion and beauty brands, has declared its results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025.

Commenting on the Q2FY26 results, Mr. Kavindra Mishra, MD and CEO, Shoppers Stop Ltd, said, “I am pleased to share our sustained good performance and outgrowing quarter after quarter. Our Core business has delivered stupendous growth through number of initiatives such as premiumization, developing our own IPs to drive the premiumization, Engagement with First Citizen Customers, Higher enrolment of Premium Black Card customers, Increased Personal Shoppers Share, etc. resulting in sales .

growth of 7%. More importantly the department LFL grew by 9.4% .Our sales growth has further amplified by Customer Entry growth of 6% LFL, a positive growth for the first time in many years. Our EBITDA grew by 42% and Profit before tax turned the corner from a loss in FY25 to a profit of Rs.9 Crs in Q2.

Our new business, i.e. INTUNE and ss.beauty.in, which we have been investing has been performing appreciably, despite headwinds.  The sales growth has been 75%, with marked improvement in the business in the last quarter, particularly in September 2025. 

Our distribution continues to grow more than 100% with new additions from the staples of beauty companies globally. We will be launching brands by EuroItalia, a global player in luxury beauty industry, known for promoting the “Made in Italy” craftsmanship worldwide, with luxury fragrances and cosmetics.

As we step into busy festive season I expect the demand to increase and stabilize. With a combination of Government Sops and Wedding season, I am confident the coming season should deliver strong results.

Performance of strategic pillars in Q2FY26:

• First Citizen – First Citizen Members contributed 83% to overall sales, (69% repeat and 14% new). Black card enrolments reached 32K and Silver card enrolments 208K, Our Premium Black Card members contributed 19% to the overall sales.

• Beauty –Beauty segment delivered sales of Rs. 331 Cr (+22% YoY). Opened three beauty outlets including ARMANI beauty and NARS boutiques at Palladium, Mumbai, along with an SS Fragrance store at EDM Mall, Ghaziabad. 
• Private Brands – Private Brands sales at Rs 161 Crs with a contribution of 13% to the overall sales and 17% to apparel business. Continue to focus on premiumization with innovative design and natural fabrics. Improved productivity driving surge in profitability. Indian wear brands “Bandeya” and “Kashish” grew by 19%. Kids category delivered sales and volume growth of 17% and 30% respectively.

• INTUNE –Sales contribution from INTUNE stood at Rs. 70 Cr (+70%). Launched 2.0 with a focus to enhance the store experience with modern fixtures, wider and appealing facades and improved in-store communication. We have been witnessing sequential improvement month over month, with September registering highest growth besides positive Like to Like sales.
• Store Expansion – In the quarter, we launched 3 INTUNE stores, 3 Beauty stores and 1 Department store with CAPEX Rs 34 Cr