Grand Theft Auto VI, widely regarded as one of the most anticipated video game launches in recent years, is scheduled to arrive in India on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Developed by Rockstar Games, the title is set in the fictional state of Leonida, a modern reimagining of Vice City inspired by Florida. The game follows dual protagonists, Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, across Rockstar's largest open-world environment to date. With official pre-orders having opened on June 25, 2026, players now have several months to secure their copies before the launch.

GTA 6 will be released exclusively for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. The game will not be available on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One, making a current-generation console essential for players planning to experience the title at launch. Rockstar Games has not announced a personal computer version, although a later release is widely expected.

The game is expected to launch in India in two editions. The Standard Edition is priced at Rs. 5,999 and includes the complete base game with all core features. The Ultimate Edition is expected to retail for Rs. 7,499 and will include additional in-game content along with bonus items. Digital pre-orders officially began on June 25, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. Select editions are also expected to include exclusive pre-order bonus content.

Rockstar Games has introduced several major gameplay enhancements in GTA 6. Players will experience the story through dual protagonists, Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, while exploring the expansive fictional state of Leonida. The game features cities, beaches, highways, swamps, and rural regions, creating what is reportedly the largest map in Grand Theft Auto history. A dynamic weather system will continuously alter environmental conditions, while improved non-playable character behaviour will allow characters to respond more naturally to player actions. The game also introduces significantly more enterable buildings and interactive activities than previous titles.

Although Rockstar Games has not confirmed official personal computer hardware requirements, industry estimates suggest that players may require an Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X processor, a minimum of 16 GB RAM, an NVIDIA RTX 3080 or AMD RX 6800 XT graphics card, and at least 150 GB of solid-state drive storage for optimal performance.

Indian gamers planning to upgrade their gaming setup should also consider the overall hardware investment required. A PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X is estimated to cost between Rs. 49,990 and Rs. 54,990. A 43-inch to 55-inch 4K Smart Television is expected to cost between Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 65,000. Gaming headsets are priced from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 30,000, while additional gaming controllers are expected to cost between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 8,000. The estimated total cost of a complete GTA 6 gaming setup in India ranges from Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 1,50,000.

Customers planning to purchase gaming consoles, televisions, accessories, or a complete gaming setup can finance their purchases through an Easy EMI Loan offered by Bajaj Finance. Financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh is available with repayment tenures ranging from three to sixty months, allowing customers to divide the total purchase amount into manageable monthly instalments without a substantial upfront payment. Select products are also available with a zero down payment offer, subject to eligibility.

Customers can visit any of the more than 1.5 lakh Bajaj Finance partner stores, verify their pre-approved limit online using their registered mobile number and one-time password, and complete their purchase on the same day. Existing Insta EMI Network Card holders can convert eligible purchases into equated monthly instalments through a paperless process.

Gamers intending to build or upgrade their gaming setup can compare gaming consoles, televisions, gaming headsets, and accessories before visiting a partner outlet. At the store, customers can evaluate shortlisted products based on performance, display quality, and gaming specifications before selecting financing through the Easy EMI Loan facility. Once financing approval is completed, customers can immediately take home their selected products.

Bajaj Finance Limited, a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Limited, is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company registered with the Reserve Bank of India and classified as a Non-Banking Financial Company-Investment and Credit Company. The company operates across retail, small and medium enterprise, and commercial lending segments with a significant presence in urban and rural India. It also accepts public and corporate deposits while offering a diversified portfolio of financial services. With a history spanning thirty-five years, the company serves a consolidated customer franchise of 69.14 million customers. Bajaj Finance holds domestic long-term credit ratings of AAA with Stable outlook, A1+ for short-term borrowing, CRISIL AAA with Stable outlook, and ICRA AAA with Stable outlook for its fixed deposit programme. It also holds a BB+ Positive long-term issuer credit rating and a B short-term rating from S&P Global Ratings.

The launch of GTA 6 is expected to mark one of the biggest gaming events of 2026 in India, combining Rockstar Games' most ambitious open-world experience with growing consumer demand for current-generation gaming hardware. With official pre-orders underway and financing options available for gaming equipment, Indian players are preparing for one of the year's most significant entertainment releases.

India's rapidly expanding electric passenger vehicle market has reached a critical turning point, but industry experts believe that lower prices alone will not be enough to convince millions of mainstream buyers to switch from conventional vehicles. During a VinFast-hosted forum in Vietnam, journalists, automotive experts and industry leaders agreed that accelerating electric vehicle adoption in India will depend on building consumer confidence through a seamless ownership experience rather than focusing solely on affordability.

Even before the Iran conflict triggered a sharp rise in fuel prices, India's electric passenger vehicle market had already begun gaining strong momentum. The shift was driven by increasing consumer awareness and changing family purchasing decisions. Experts noted that rising concerns over air pollution in major cities such as Delhi, along with growing awareness of climate change, have significantly influenced consumer attitudes toward electric mobility. They also observed that vehicle purchases in India are typically family decisions, with children increasingly influencing buying choices. Younger family members are often attracted to the modern styling and advanced technology offered by electric vehicles, encouraging families to consider electric models.

The recent conflict in the Middle East further strengthened an existing trend as consumers increasingly evaluated not only the purchase price of a vehicle but also its long-term ownership costs.

According to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations, India recorded retail sales of 31,823 electric passenger vehicles in June, marking the highest monthly figure on record. The volume was more than double that of the corresponding period last year and increased electric vehicle penetration to 7.7 percent of total passenger vehicle sales, compared with 4.8 percent a year earlier. Alternative-fuel vehicles, including electric vehicles, hybrid models and compressed natural gas vehicles, also accounted for more than 40 percent of passenger vehicle sales for the first time.

Despite this rapid growth, electric passenger vehicles continue to represent a relatively small share of India's annual passenger vehicle market, which exceeds four million units. While consumer interest continues to rise, industry experts believe that converting this interest into actual purchases remains the biggest challenge.

That issue formed the central theme of the VinFast discussion in Vietnam, where participants examined the factors required to move electric vehicles into India's mainstream market. Although opinions differed on several aspects, participants reached a common conclusion that widespread adoption of four-wheeler electric vehicles will require much more than lower battery costs or additional charging stations. They argued that consumers must feel confident that electric vehicles can integrate smoothly into their everyday lives.

Industry experts said the buying process is increasingly shifting away from comparing showroom prices toward evaluating the total cost of ownership over several years.

Shams Raza Naqvi, Senior Editor at car&bike, said that the narrowing price gap between electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles has changed consumer priorities. He stated that the initial purchase cost is becoming less of a concern because the price difference continues to decline. Instead, buyers are increasingly focused on the recurring expense of spending between 5,000 and 6,000 rupees at fuel stations compared with the significantly lower cost of charging an electric vehicle at home.

Dr. Javeid Khan, Automotive Reviewer at CarAdvice, supported this assessment by highlighting the impact of rising fuel prices on consumer behaviour. He said fuel prices have increased sharply, sometimes several times within a single week, making the considerably lower running cost of electric vehicles one of the strongest factors influencing Indian buyers.

Participants also noted that technological improvements have strengthened the appeal of electric vehicles. Dr. Khan explained that electric vehicles, once viewed primarily as second or third family cars for daily commuting, are becoming increasingly suitable for long-distance travel as driving ranges have expanded to between 450 and 500 kilometres.

However, despite these improvements, ownership concerns continue to influence purchasing decisions. Panelists identified range anxiety, inconsistent charger availability, fragmented payment systems and uneven highway charging infrastructure as persistent obstacles. Residents living in apartment complexes often face difficulties installing home charging facilities, while concerns regarding battery lifespan, resale value and fire safety continue to shape perceptions among first-time buyers.

Experts concluded that India's electric vehicle challenge is no longer centred on making vehicles less expensive but rather on making ownership more predictable and dependable.

Automakers believe that improving the ownership experience represents the most effective way to encourage wider adoption. While competitive pricing attracts customers to dealerships, participants argued that the overall ownership ecosystem ultimately determines purchasing decisions. Manufacturers are therefore competing not only through vehicle specifications but also through charging infrastructure, after-sales service and long-term customer support.

Tapan Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer of VinFast India, said that expanding electric vehicle adoption requires cooperation between customers, governments and original equipment manufacturers. He emphasised the need for governments to continue supportive tax policies until the market reaches a decisive growth stage while urging manufacturers to make electric vehicle ownership less intimidating for consumers.

VinFast has adopted this approach by developing a comprehensive ownership ecosystem alongside its vehicle portfolio. In addition to expanding charging and service networks, the company is collaborating with third-party providers to strengthen after-sales support. VinFast also offers free charging, complimentary maintenance, a residual value guarantee and warranties extending up to 10 years, depending on the vehicle, with the objective of reducing ownership concerns.

Participants agreed that consumer confidence depends as much on supporting infrastructure and service networks as on vehicle performance itself. Those who recently visited Vietnam said the country's extensive charging infrastructure, developed by VinFast's sister company V-Green, demonstrated how widespread electric vehicle adoption can become when charging facilities are reliable and easily accessible.

Ranojoy Mukerji, Assistant Editor at The New Indian Express' Indulge, said that visitors immediately notice the large number of electric vehicles operating on Vietnamese roads. He added that seeing hundreds of vehicles charging simultaneously removes the psychological barrier that many consumers associate with electric vehicle ownership.

The discussion also highlighted the continuing importance of government policy. Participants called for greater regulatory clarity, sustained investment in charging infrastructure, innovative financing solutions from banks and non-banking financial companies, and stable long-term policies capable of providing confidence to both consumers and manufacturers.

VinFast, listed on NASDAQ under the ticker VFS and operating as a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, is a dedicated electric vehicle manufacturer focused on making electric mobility accessible to a wider population. Its current product portfolio includes electric sport utility vehicles, electric scooters and electric buses. The company is pursuing global expansion by rapidly increasing its distribution and dealership network while expanding manufacturing capacity across key markets in North America, Europe and Asia.

The forum underscored that India's electric vehicle transition has entered a new phase in which affordability alone is no longer the defining factor. Industry leaders concluded that sustained growth will depend on creating a reliable ownership ecosystem that gives consumers the confidence to embrace electric mobility as a practical everyday choice.

Aukera, India's leading premium lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, has raised Rs. 90 crore, equivalent to more than USD 10 million, in fresh funding led by existing investor Alteria Capital. The funding round also saw participation from InnoVen Capital, Lighthouse Canton and a leading bank, further strengthening the company's financial position as competition intensifies in the rapidly expanding lab-grown diamond jewellery segment.

The latest fundraise comes less than twelve months after Aukera secured a USD 15 million equity investment led by Peak XV Partners. The previous funding round also included participation from Fireside Ventures, Sparrow Capital, Prath Ventures and Alteria Capital. The company's ability to attract substantial institutional capital in consecutive funding rounds reflects the strength of its growth trajectory and the continued confidence of both lenders and investors in its underlying business.

Aukera stated that the fresh capital will further reinforce its balance sheet at a time when India's lab-grown diamond jewellery market is witnessing increasing participation from some of the country's largest industry players. Among them is Titan, which has entered the segment with its lab-grown diamond brand, Beyon.

Despite growing competition, Aukera continues to position itself at the forefront of the premium lab-grown diamond jewellery category. The successful completion of another significant funding round underscores investor confidence in the company's business fundamentals and highlights its leadership as the market continues to evolve.

Monsoon showers may disrupt outdoor plans, but they also offer the perfect opportunity to bring family and friends together over comforting homemade food. Encouraging people to transform rainy weekends into memorable indoor celebrations, California Walnuts has introduced a collection of flavorful recipes that combine rich taste, satisfying crunch, and wholesome nutrition. From hearty tacos and smoky corn ribs to a refreshing grilled fruit dessert, the recipes highlight the versatility of California walnuts in creating shareable dishes for every occasion.

One of the featured recipes is California Walnut Tacos, designed as a plant-based alternative packed with flavor. The taco filling is prepared by pulsing one and a half cups of California walnuts until they resemble ground meat before cooking them with olive oil, diced onion, low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and garlic powder. The walnut mixture is then served in hard taco shells and topped with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, mild salsa, and low-fat sour cream, creating a satisfying meal suitable for family gatherings.

Adding a sweet touch to the menu is Grilled Peaches with Ricotta, California Walnuts and Honey. The recipe begins by toasting California walnuts in an oven preheated to 180 degrees Celsius before roughly chopping them. Fresh peach halves are brushed with vegetable oil and grilled over medium-high heat until lightly caramelized with distinct grill marks and a tender texture. The warm peaches are topped with ricotta cheese, toasted California walnuts, honey, and fresh mint, creating a dessert that balances sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.

The collection also features Smoked Paprika-Spiced Corn Ribs with California Walnut Parmesan and Lime Crema, offering a savory sharing dish with bold flavors. Yellow corn is cut into rib-like strips, coated with extra-virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, and roasted in a 200-degree Celsius oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. The accompanying lime crema is prepared by blending California walnuts with water until smooth before adding lime zest, lime juice, and salt, then chilling the mixture before serving. The finishing touch is a walnut parmesan made by combining toasted, finely chopped California walnuts with finely grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, which is sprinkled over the roasted corn along with the lime crema.

The collection demonstrates how California walnuts can elevate simple home-cooked meals with rich flavor, texture, and versatility, encouraging families to turn rainy weekends into enjoyable indoor dining experiences centered around shared food and togetherness.

HiLITE Group has appointed Neka Sulaiman, daughter of Group Chairman P. Sulaiman, as Director of HiLITE Holdings, entrusting her with the leadership of the Group’s hospitality division and its ambitious expansion plans. Under her leadership, HiLITE Group aims to develop 1,000 hotel keys across Kerala by 2030, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy.

The appointment represents an important phase in HiLITE Group’s expansion as it strengthens its presence beyond retail, residential, commercial and business infrastructure projects by establishing a strong foothold in the hospitality sector.

As part of its new vision, HiLITE Group plans to build a diversified hospitality portfolio spanning luxury, upscale and midscale hotel segments. Kozhikode has been identified as a key focus market, supported by the city’s expanding business environment, growing tourism industry, advanced healthcare facilities and educational institutions.

Speaking about her new responsibility, Neka Sulaiman said the Group’s objective is to create hospitality destinations that become an integral part of the city’s business, cultural and social landscape.

“This is the right time to strengthen Kozhikode’s hospitality landscape. Our target is not just about numbers, but about creating the right hospitality infrastructure for a growing city,” she said.

HiLITE Group Chairman P. Sulaiman said Neka’s appointment reflects her commitment, character and readiness to assume greater responsibility within the organisation.

“The true measure of a leader lies in character, judgement and responsibility. These are qualities I have seen in Neka over the years. I look forward to the fresh perspective she will bring to HiLITE Group,” he said.

Before assuming her new role, Neka was associated with Hug a Mug, HiLITE Group’s home-grown café brand, during her educational years, where she gained practical experience in operations, customer service and team coordination. She said the experience enabled her to understand business operations from the ground level.

Neka completed her schooling at The White School International under the International Baccalaureate curriculum and earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree. She has also completed the Certified Management Accountant qualification, further strengthening her expertise in finance, management and business strategy.

With Neka Sulaiman taking charge of the hospitality division, HiLITE Group aims to establish a strong hospitality vertical that will support Kerala’s growing demand for quality hotel infrastructure while carrying forward the Group’s legacy through a new generation of leadership.

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited has been recognized among India’s Top 20 Best Companies to Work For 2026 by Great Place To Work India, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most trusted and employee-focused organizations. Ranked 16th among leading companies across multiple industries, the recognition reflects PNB MetLife’s continued commitment to building a high-trust, high-performance workplace where employees are valued, empowered, and encouraged to grow. This is the third consecutive year that the company has secured a place among India’s Top 20 Best Companies to Work For.

Announcing the recognition, Balbir Singh, Chief Executive Officer of Great Place To Work, said the 2026 edition of India’s Best Companies To Work For reflects decades of research into workplace culture. He stated that the assessment has become one of the country’s most comprehensive workplace culture studies, capturing the experiences of more than 5.7 million employees across over 20 industries.

He said the Best Workplaces outperform their peers by achieving an 89 percent score in caring and inspiring, two of the nine leadership behaviors defined by Great Place To Work. According to the organization, companies that prioritize these leadership behaviors experience 14 percent higher productivity, employee retention, and customer service scores. He added that leaders at Best Workplaces demonstrate that employees perform at their best when they feel valued and heard.

Congratulating PNB MetLife on the achievement, Balbir Singh said the recognition belongs to every leader who leads with purpose, every team that promotes inclusion, and every employee who contributes to building a culture founded on trust. He said the journey toward workplace excellence begins with people who consistently strengthen organizational culture.

Commenting on the recognition, Sameer Bansal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PNB MetLife, said the company’s employees remain its greatest strength and that the recognition celebrates the culture they help create every day. He said being ranked among India’s Top 20 Best Companies to Work For 2026 motivates the organization to continue strengthening a workplace where innovation, collaboration, and purpose flourish. He added that as the company expands, it remains committed to creating opportunities that enable employees to realize their full potential while making a meaningful impact on customers, communities, and stakeholders.

Backed by three decades of workplace research, Great Place To Work is recognized globally for evaluating organizational culture. Through its proprietary For All Model and Trust Index Survey, the organization provides companies with recognition and tools to build consistently positive employee experiences. Its mission is to help every workplace become a great place to work for all by driving business growth, improving lives, and empowering communities. Through its globally recognized Certification and Best Workplaces Lists, Great Place To Work enables employers to attract and retain talent, benchmark workplace culture, and improve organizational performance. Its platform captures, analyzes, and compares employee experiences using data collected from more than 100 million employees across 150 countries.

PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited is one of India’s leading life insurance providers, combining the financial strength of MetLife, Inc. with the credibility of Punjab National Bank, one of the country’s oldest nationalized banks. Guided by its positioning, “Always Ready for Life,” the company focuses on empowering individuals to lead their lives with confidence.

The company operates through 182 offices and reaches customers in more than 20,000 locations through banking partnerships. PNB MetLife offers a comprehensive portfolio of insurance solutions covering child education, family protection, long-term savings, and retirement planning. Supported by more than 40,000 financial advisors, multiple banking partners, and over 585 group relationships across India, the company continues to strengthen its presence in the country’s life insurance sector.

The latest recognition highlights PNB MetLife’s sustained focus on employee well-being, organizational trust, and workplace excellence, reinforcing its reputation as one of India’s leading employers while reflecting the growing importance of people-first leadership in driving long-term business success.

Reinforcing its commitment to the holistic development and emotional well-being of students, Manipal University Jaipur organised "Matru Setu – Women Mentoring Young Women," a dedicated orientation and mentorship programme designed to empower women educators to become compassionate mentors for young female students.

The programme was organised by the Directorate of Student Welfare, Manipal University Jaipur, in collaboration with the Foundation for Holistic Development. It brought together all female faculty members and spouses of male faculty members with the objective of creating a nurturing support network for students facing academic, emotional and social challenges during university life.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chairperson of the Foundation for Holistic Development, Mrs. Madhuri Sahasrabudhe, along with members of her team, Ms. Alka Soni and Ms. Medha Deshpande. The programme was also attended by President of Manipal University Jaipur, Prof. (Dr.) Niti Nipun Sharma; Pro President, Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana; Provost, Prof. (Dr.) Nitu Bhatnagar; Ms. Manju Sharma; Dean of Student Welfare, Dr. Madhura Yadav; Head of Human Resources, Ms. Kananjeet Kaur; Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, faculty members, and senior journalist and television personality Dr. Puneet Sharma.

Welcoming the guests and participants, Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana highlighted the increasing importance of mentorship in higher education. He said students today encounter diverse academic, emotional and social challenges, making empathetic guidance from faculty members more essential than ever. He encouraged participants to become trusted mentors capable of positively influencing students' personal and professional development.

In his presidential address, Prof. (Dr.) Niti Nipun Sharma spoke about the transformative role of mothers in shaping the character, values and future of children. Paying tribute to the mother of Dr. T.M.A. Pai, the visionary founder of the Manipal Group, he acknowledged her lasting contribution to society and the values that continue to inspire the institution's legacy. He urged women faculty members to extend motherly care, emotional support and guidance to students dealing with stress, anxiety and personal challenges during their higher education journey.

Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Madhuri Sahasrabudhe shared experiences from her extensive interactions with college and university students across the country. Through practical examples and personal experiences, she explained how timely guidance, empathy and genuine concern from a mentor can significantly transform the lives of young people, particularly those facing emotional distress or difficult circumstances.

The interactive workshop featured practical sessions conducted by Mrs. Madhuri Sahasrabudhe, Ms. Alka Soni and Ms. Medha Deshpande. The sessions presented real-life situations commonly experienced by university students and engaged participants through role-playing exercises that encouraged them to understand students' perspectives while responding with empathy, compassion and effective communication.

One of the major highlights of the programme was the presentation by 13 faculty teams, each performing role-play activities based on different student-related issues, including emotional well-being, academic pressure, interpersonal relationships and self-confidence. The exercises enabled participants to explore practical mentoring approaches and strengthen their ability to build meaningful and supportive conversations with students.

The workshop was specifically designed to cultivate empathy, compassion, active listening and emotional intelligence among women faculty members, equipping them to mentor students with the care, understanding and guidance traditionally associated with a mother's support.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Director of Student Welfare, Dr. Pankaj Vyas, while Dr. Aanyaa Chouhary conducted the proceedings as the master of ceremonies.

The initiative reflects Manipal University Jaipur's continued commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive and emotionally resilient campus environment where mentorship extends beyond academics to foster confidence, resilience and holistic growth among young women.

Bank of Maharashtra has announced the launch of FinSpark'26, a national-level cybersecurity hackathon aimed at encouraging students and dropouts across India to develop innovative solutions for real-world cybersecurity challenges in the banking sector. The initiative seeks to strengthen the country's digital banking ecosystem by promoting practical ideas focused on securing the future of banking.

Built around the theme, "Securing the Future of Banking," FinSpark'26 is designed to bring together young technology professionals, cybersecurity enthusiasts and problem-solvers to create innovative solutions that enhance digital banking security, fraud prevention, cyber resilience and customer trust. The hackathon invites participants to register, select a problem statement, develop their solutions individually or as part of a team, and compete for national recognition.

The competition offers a prize pool exceeding Rs. 10 lakh. The top 20 teams will earn an opportunity to present their solutions during the Grand Finale at COEP Technological University, Pune. Winning teams will also receive an opportunity to showcase their innovations at the Global FinTech Fest 2026, subject to applicable terms and conditions.

FinSpark'26 focuses on mission-critical areas of banking cybersecurity, including insider threat detection, privileged access misuse, artificial intelligence-driven correlation of cybersecurity telemetry, transaction behaviour analysis, fraud prevention and proactive threat identification. Through the initiative, Bank of Maharashtra aims to encourage practical, scalable and secure solutions capable of addressing the evolving cybersecurity requirements of the banking industry.

The hackathon features two dedicated cybersecurity problem statements. The first, Privileged Access Misuse and Insider Threat Detection, challenges participants to develop solutions capable of detecting misuse of privileged accounts, identifying insider threats, analysing behavioural patterns and supporting risk-based access control. The second, Artificial Intelligence-Driven Correlation of Cybersecurity Telemetry and Transactional Behaviour, encourages participants to explore methods of connecting cybersecurity signals with transaction behaviour to detect anomalies, fraud patterns, suspicious activities and potential cyber threats more effectively.

Participants may register individually or in teams of up to four members. They are required to choose one of the problem statements, develop a structured concept or prototype, and submit their solution for evaluation. Entries will be assessed on business relevance, commercial potential, security considerations, originality of approach, user experience, scalability, and ease of development and long-term maintenance.

Beyond the competition, FinSpark'26 has been designed as a platform for learning and innovation. Participants will gain exposure to real-world banking cybersecurity challenges, receive mentoring support, earn national-level recognition and refine their ideas throughout the hackathon. The top 20 shortlisted teams will present their solutions before domain experts during the Grand Finale, where practical, secure and future-ready innovations for digital banking will be identified.

Speaking about the initiative, Bank of Maharashtra said cybersecurity remains one of the most critical pillars of modern banking. Through FinSpark'26, the bank aims to inspire young innovators to address genuine banking security challenges and develop solutions that contribute to a safer, stronger and more resilient digital banking ecosystem. The bank stated that the initiative reflects its continued commitment to innovation, technology adoption and nurturing future-ready talent.

FinSpark'26 is open to students and dropouts across India with an interest in cybersecurity, technology, artificial intelligence, data, fraud prevention, secure digital banking and innovation. The initiative marks a significant step by Bank of Maharashtra to encourage emerging talent to develop practical cybersecurity solutions that can help shape the future of India's banking industry while strengthening trust and resilience across the digital financial ecosystem.

The Government of Mauritius has elevated mental health to a national priority by launching a nationwide programme for schools and communities founded by India-born Dr. Ishan Shivanand and based on one of India's oldest knowledge systems. The programme was officially launched at State House by His Excellency President Dharambeer Gokhool, making Mauritius the first country in the world to adopt the meditation and resilience programme at a national level after its practices were validated through peer-reviewed medical research.

Addressing the launch ceremony, President Dharambeer Gokhool said Mauritius was honoured to become one of the countries where the cross-sector alliance had taken root. He stated that the strength of a nation should not be measured only by its economic achievements or physical development, but by the wellbeing of its people. He added that the true wealth of a nation lies not only in what it builds, but in how it cares for its citizens.

Dr. Ishan Shivanand, founder of Compassion Unites, was raised in a monastery where he underwent years of training in ancient martial arts, breathwork and meditation practices that focus on the discipline of body, breath and mind rather than stillness alone. He later transformed those traditional practices into structured protocols and subjected them to clinical research in collaboration with leading universities in the United States.

According to the programme's research findings, which have been published in peer-reviewed international medical journals, the protocols demonstrated improvements of up to 80 percent in symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and insomnia.

Shivanand's protocols are already being implemented in clinical and corporate environments across several countries, including at Google. With the national launch in Mauritius, a sovereign government has now adopted the programme for implementation across its population. The development carries particular significance because Mauritius shares deep historical and cultural ties with India, allowing a tradition preserved for centuries and brought into modern clinical application by the India-born practitioner who mastered it to become part of another nation's public mental healthcare framework.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Shivanand said mental health had been treated for too long as a private struggle fought in silence. He described it as a public emergency that has become even more significant in the era of artificial intelligence. He said the Republic of Mauritius had chosen to break that silence by prioritising the wellbeing of its citizens and making mental healthcare accessible to every individual. He further stated that the solutions the world continues to seek have existed for centuries within India's contemplative traditions and that Mauritius has become the first nation to implement those practices on a national scale. He described the initiative as a model that other countries could follow.

The programme's first national event will translate resilience-building into practical action through sport. Compassion Unites will organise a Kun Khmer championship at the Cote d'Or National Sports Complex with the objective of promoting discipline, confidence and resilience among young people.

The launch at State House marks the beginning of a sustained national mental health initiative that its founder intends to serve as a model for governments worldwide to study and adapt. The adoption also represents the first national-scale implementation outside India of a tradition that has been preserved for centuries and modernised through scientific research.

Compassion Unites is a cross-sector mental health alliance that brings together corporations, governments, faith institutions, academic centres and community networks to expand access to mental health support worldwide.

Dr. Ishan Shivanand is an academic, philanthropist and founder of Compassion Unites. Raised in a monastery, he trained within one of India's oldest knowledge systems before bringing its practices into modern clinical research. His work has been published in peer-reviewed international medical journals. He is also the award-winning author of the USA Today national bestseller The Practice of Immortality. His contributions have been recognised by the United States Congress, he has been received by the Parliament of the United Kingdom, and he has been invited to the White House to advise on the opioid crisis. He also holds research affiliations with the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar and Stanford University.

The nationwide adoption of this scientifically validated mental health programme marks a landmark moment for Mauritius and represents a significant international recognition of India's traditional knowledge systems, demonstrating how ancient practices supported by modern clinical evidence can shape national public health policy beyond their country of origin.

Protinex India has launched its new integrated campaign, “Strength Makes Everyday Life Easier,” aimed at highlighting the importance of muscle strength and adequate protein intake among millennial Indian adults. The campaign is built around a key health insight that, from the age of 30 onwards, the human body gradually begins to lose muscle strength while many adults fail to consume sufficient protein to meet their daily nutritional requirements. Although the determination to manage work, family, and everyday responsibilities remains unchanged, declining muscle strength can make even routine tasks increasingly difficult.

The campaign's central brand film presents this reality through a relatable family moment. The story follows a mother returning home after a long day of work. As her young son notices her from across the room, he runs into her arms with excitement. When she bends down to lift him, a task that should have been effortless suddenly becomes physically challenging. The film concludes with a thought-provoking question asking whether everyday tasks have started feeling heavier because muscle strength is gradually declining, before ending on a positive note that emphasizes the comfort and confidence provided by strong everyday health.

The campaign reinforces Protinex's nutritional proposition of providing 40 percent of the recommended daily protein intake per serving along with 25 vital nutrients that support strong muscle health. According to the referenced scientific publication, a healthy adult requires between 1.0 and 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight every day. Protinex is positioned as a nutritional supplement designed to help bridge this protein gap when consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

The integrated campaign will reach approximately 53 million consumers across India through an extensive media strategy. The brand film has been produced in English, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Odia, Tamil, Kannada, and several other Indian languages to ensure wider regional accessibility. It will be broadcast across 39 television channels, including general entertainment channels, regional entertainment networks, and movie channels, with nearly 182 television spots scheduled to air every day.

Beyond television, the campaign has been expanded across multiple digital platforms, including YouTube, Meta, JioHotstar over-the-top streaming services, Connected Television, and Mediakart. Protinex India has also announced that it is exploring innovative consumer engagement initiatives that will extend the campaign's central message into real-world experiences, with further announcements expected in the near future.

Speaking about the campaign, Priyanka Verma, Marketing Director at Danone India, said that strength is often associated with extraordinary achievements, but its most meaningful role lies in enabling people to perform everyday activities without physical limitations. She stated that the campaign focuses on those quiet moments when simple tasks unexpectedly become difficult because the body can no longer match a person's determination. She added that when physical strength supports personal ambition, everyday life becomes easier and more fulfilling.

Danone India stated that the campaign reflects its broader commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles under its global vision of "One Planet, One Health." The company said it continues to advance its sustainability agenda through the Danone Impact Journey while pursuing positive environmental and social impact across its operations.

Danone India entered the country's nutrition business in 2012 after acquiring the nutrition portfolio of the Wockhardt Group. The company offers nutritional products across different life stages under brands including Aptamil, Aptagrow, Neocate, Protinex, Dexolac, and Nusobee.

The company has recorded consistent growth in recent years by expanding both its product portfolio and market presence. Danone India employs approximately 1,000 people across its manufacturing facility in Lalru, Punjab, and its corporate headquarters in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Its operations include manufacturing, research and innovation, sales, and other business functions focused on developing products tailored to Indian nutritional requirements and consumer preferences.

The launch of the nationwide campaign marks another strategic initiative by Protinex India and Danone India to raise awareness about muscle health, protein nutrition, and preventive wellness while reinforcing the importance of maintaining physical strength to support everyday life.

The Thessaloniki International Media Summer Academy (THISAM) marked its tenth anniversary by expanding beyond its traditional base for the first time, launching the opening phase of its 2026 programme in the lakeside town of Kastoria before continuing in Thessaloniki through July 10. The move, led by Aristotle University, reflects an effort to extend the institution's regional presence across Macedonia while setting the stage for an edition focused on one of the most pressing questions facing modern journalism: "Unveiling Tomorrow's Media: Challenges and Tools in Communication."

Convened by Professor Nikos Panagiotou in collaboration with a consortium of 15 partner universities, including Temple University, DW Akademie, Concordia University and Hong Kong Baptist University, THISAM 2026 brought together 71 participants from 19 countries. The academy attracted early-career journalists, scholars, media executives and non-governmental organization leaders, with participants representing locations from Hong Kong to Montreal. The programme followed the two-day "Global Media and Culture" conference held on July 1 and July 2 and continued its established format of keynote addresses, workshops and international collaborations while addressing emerging challenges confronting the global media industry.

The opening day began with introductory remarks by Christos Frangonikolopoulos, Dean of the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences at Aristotle University. The programme featured a keynote session on the future of media, a workshop on solutions journalism and rebuilding public trust led by Elira Canga of Arizona State University's Cronkite School, a collaborative project-building session with faculty members, and a two-hour workshop examining strategies for capturing audience attention in the digital media environment.

Artificial intelligence remained a central focus of the academy, continuing discussions that began in 2018. However, this year's programme shifted attention from technological novelty to its broader implications, examining the impact of generative artificial intelligence on automated reporting, fact verification, editorial judgment and the continuing necessity of human oversight in journalism. Organizers also highlighted journalist safety as an increasingly urgent concern, reflecting the growing risks faced by reporters working in dangerous environments across the world.

Alongside these discussions, the academy showcased a media literacy initiative implemented in 35 Greek schools in partnership with the country's Ministry of Education and the General Secretariat of Information. Recognized by UNESCO as an example of good practice, the programme aims to strengthen critical thinking among students and improve resilience against misinformation during adolescence.

One of the academy's most discussed sessions was the two-hour workshop titled "Winning Attention in the Digital Media Era," jointly led by Avinash Mudaliar, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of HT Labs and Chief Executive Officer of OTTplay, and Jatin Malhotra, whose professional experience includes product strategy, innovation and market expansion roles at Oracle, Meta and Reliance Jio.

Drawing upon his experience with HT Media, OTTplay, Carvaan, Gaana and Slurrp, Mudaliar argued that content is no longer the industry's scarce resource and that audience attention has become the defining currency of modern media. He explained how algorithms, endless scrolling, streaming platforms and declining brand loyalty increasingly shape audience behaviour more than traditional editorial merit. As an example, he highlighted the development of an artificial intelligence-powered search layer built over Hindustan Times' digital archive, enabling nearly a century of reporting to become fully searchable. This perspective, however, was presented primarily through HT Labs' own account of the session, while independent confirmation of audience reactions remained limited.

According to that account, the workshop developed into an active exchange involving participants and faculty members from the United States, Europe and Asia. Discussions explored whether audience engagement models developed for streaming and digital entertainment platforms could effectively apply to journalism. Participants examined why technically superior products often fail against competitors that better understand human behaviour, whether audience attention can be earned without resorting to sensationalism, what journalism can learn from gaming and streaming platforms, how recommendation systems influence discovery, trust and audience choice, and why emotion, nostalgia, habit and cultural context frequently outweigh technological superiority.

These discussions ultimately returned to a fundamental question for journalists operating in an era of unlimited content: what persuades audiences to stop, engage, remember and return. For some participants, the question tested journalism's claim to seriousness, while for others it reinforced the continuing relevance of responsible reporting.

The attention economy debate formed only one part of the academy's broader examination of journalism's future. The programme's opening keynote on the future of media and communication was delivered by Shin D. Kim, Professor of Film at Hong Kong Baptist University, introducing many of the themes later explored during the workshop on audience attention.

On the second day, discussions expanded beyond audience engagement to include practical applications of emerging technologies. Ludovic Blecher, Chairman of WhiteBeard and Chief Executive Officer of IDation, presented a case study on artificial intelligence implementation and examined the broader state of the artificial intelligence ecosystem. Sherri Hope Culver of Temple University led sessions addressing popular culture, propaganda, media literacy, ethics and responsibility in an increasingly diverse digital environment, placing audience engagement within a broader historical and social framework.

Visual anthropologist and documentary filmmaker Dr. Dimitrios Bouras conducted sessions examining the representation of war, conflict and humanitarian crises, as well as the role of collective memory in conflict reporting. These discussions emphasized forms of journalism that extend beyond algorithm-driven engagement and require sustained reporting under complex and often dangerous conditions.

As the programme progressed, Niko Efstathiou, Editor in Chief of WIRED Greece, delivered a session examining misinformation during wildfires through practical case studies and lessons for journalists, demonstrating how media literacy directly affects public safety. Dejan Oblak of the University of Zagreb complemented earlier discussions with a session titled "Reimagining News for the Visual Generation," presenting an experimental approach to visual storytelling designed to meet changing audience consumption habits rather than merely adapting to algorithmic demands.

The academy concluded in Thessaloniki with sessions emphasizing journalism's democratic responsibilities and long-term public value. Journalist and Concordia University professor Aphrodite Salas conducted a workshop on oral history as documentary practice, extending the academy's emphasis on reporting skills developed throughout the programme. Faculty members including Silcock, Perišin, Culver and Panagiotou jointly led the session "Trust and Democracy from the Agora to AI: America 250 and Fulbright Voices," placing discussions about artificial intelligence within the wider context of democratic trust rather than technological innovation alone.

Professor Panagiotou concluded the academy with "The Future Is Yours: Global Media, Leadership, and the Careers Students Must Build Now," before leading the graduation ceremony for participants who had spent ten days examining the future of journalism through discussions spanning technology, ethics, media literacy, artificial intelligence and democratic responsibility.

Throughout the programme, Panagiotou consistently argued that public debate often places excessive emphasis on technological change while overlooking the journalists working in the field. He maintained that journalism extends beyond the rapid delivery of information to include the essential work of understanding events, interpreting their significance and providing meaningful context, responsibilities that remain beyond the capabilities of artificial intelligence. Set against broader discussions suggesting that audience attention increasingly determines which stories survive, THISAM 2026 concluded by presenting an ongoing debate rather than a definitive answer, reinforcing the academy's role as an international platform examining the future direction of global journalism.

Paisabazaar, India's leading marketplace for financial products, has launched PB Pass, a complimentary airport lounge access benefit designed for credit card users across the country. Developed in partnership with Collinson International, a global leader in airport experiences, loyalty, and customer engagement solutions, PB Pass provides access to a worldwide network of more than 1,800 airport lounges and travel experiences across over 800 domestic and international airports through the LoungeKey programme.

The initiative has been introduced to reward customer engagement while strengthening platform loyalty. Select customers who pay their credit card bills through the Paisabazaar application will become eligible to participate in a "Spin the Wheel" contest after every bill payment. Selected winners will receive a complimentary PB Pass each month.

Paisabazaar will also provide PB Pass as an assured benefit to customers who apply for a new credit card through its platform. Eligible customers can unlock a complimentary PB Pass after activating their newly issued credit card and making their first credit card bill payment through the Paisabazaar application.

Each PB Pass enables seamless access to an airport lounge or travel experience within the LoungeKey network through a QR code-based system, eliminating the need for additional memberships or registrations. Participating airport experiences include the newly opened Travel Club Lounge at Don Mueang International Airport in Thailand, the Kyra Lounge near Gate 40 at Hong Kong International Airport, and the Rose Lounge at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Vietnam, among several other destinations.

Santosh Agarwal, Chief Executive Officer of Paisabazaar, said the company is focused on delivering value beyond customer acquisition while building deeper engagement throughout the customer lifecycle. She stated that airport lounge access remains one of the most valued travel benefits for credit card users and that PB Pass makes the experience more accessible, rewarding, and convenient. She added that the extensive LoungeKey network enables Paisabazaar to provide a differentiated benefit that customers can continue to enjoy as they engage with the platform.

Rom Remy, Managing Director for South and Southeast Asia at Collinson International, said travel demand in India continues to grow strongly, with consumers placing increasing importance on travel-focused benefits such as airport lounge access. He said the company's research indicates that 81 percent of travellers in India believe airport lounge access and travel experiences enhance their overall journey. He added that Collinson International is pleased to partner with Paisabazaar to enhance customer travel experiences through the LoungeKey network while welcoming users to its global network of airport lounges and travel experiences.

The launch comes at a time when airport lounge access remains one of the most sought-after benefits associated with credit cards. However, such benefits are often restricted by card-specific eligibility conditions, spending requirements, and visit limits, creating complexity for many consumers. PB Pass provides an additional and simplified method of accessing airport lounges and travel experiences through a QR code-based process and broad global coverage, complementing the travel benefits already available with eligible credit cards.

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech, which has been publicly listed since 2021, has built its presence over more than 12 years and serves over 58 million consumers across 850 cities and towns in India. The platform offers a comprehensive range of financial products, including loans, credit cards, investments, savings products, bill payment services, and mobile recharge facilities. It also enables consumers to check their credit scores from all four Credit Information Companies operating in India. The company is certified under ISO 27001:2013 and PCI DSS standards, reflecting its commitment to maintaining strong information security and consumer data protection.

LoungeKey is a digital travel experiences programme operated by Collinson International, providing eligible cardholders with secure and convenient access to airport lounges, dining, retail offers, spa services, and other travel experiences using their existing payment card or smartphone. The programme offers access to more than 1,800 airport lounges and travel experiences across over 856 airports worldwide through payment card or QR code authentication for quick entry and offer redemption.

Collinson International, a privately owned global company, has spent more than 35 years working with the world's leading payment networks, over 1,400 banks, 90 airlines, and 20 hotel groups to deliver airport experiences, loyalty and customer engagement programmes, and insurance solutions for more than 400 million consumers worldwide.

The launch of PB Pass marks a significant expansion of travel-related benefits for credit card users, offering a simplified and accessible airport lounge experience while reinforcing Paisabazaar's strategy of enhancing long-term customer engagement through value-added financial services.