Blog

  • Heartfulness Institute Joins Global Biodiversity Alliance to Boost Conservation Impact

    New Delhi, April 2 : Heartfulness Institute announces its addition to the Global Biodiversity Alliance (GBA) membership as acknowledged by the Global Biodiversity Alliance Secretariat on its GBA membership and its association with the Georgetown Declaration. As a member, Heartfulness Institute will be part of a collaborative platform dedicated to advancing global efforts to stall and reverse the loss of biodiversity resonating with the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Heartfulness Institute will closely be working with the Alliance’s objectives and various activities.

    As a Global Biodiversity Alliance member, Heartfulness through its global network of 5,000 centers in 160 countries will work on raising awareness about biodiversity responsibilities, promoting the principle that ecological resilience is essential for human well-being. Heartfulness intends to implement the Global Biodiversity framework in Forests by Heartfulness project sites and generate high quality Biodiversity Credits. Besides, there is a severe lack of India-specific data in sections related to ecology and restoration. Through this membership, Heartfulness can further Global Biodiversity Alliance’s efforts in India to gather this data.

    Vishwas Subramanyam, Director, PR and Partnerships (UK & Europe) from Heartfulness Institute said,

     “Through this membership, we are hoping to have knowledge transfer and technical know-how with Global Biodiversity Alliance and other member organisations, logistical support and share resources towards protecting global biodiversity. We hope joining the Alliance will go a long way in ecological conservation and raising awareness on responsibility towards biodiversity.”

    The Global Biodiversity Alliance provides an international platform for leaders, scientists, indigenous voices, and innovators aiming to collaborate for measurable commitments and innovative solutions towards protection of 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.

    In joining the alliance, Heartfulness Institute will stay abreast of the current and future activities undertaken by Global Biodiversity Alliance. The Global Diversity Alliance will facilitate networking and bilateral or multilateral engagements that serve biodiversity management. The main inputs from members include “technical advice based on their experiences, any other supporting materials or data which can be shared on a voluntary basis.” As a member of GBA, Heartfulness Institute will “make efforts to participate in meetings and working group sessions that are aligned with the institute’s mandates; share their experiences and learn from others working in a similar space.”

    The Global Biodiversity Alliance was founded on the principle that “protecting biodiversity is essential for ecological resilience and human well-being”. The Alliance combats the threats of deforestation, climate change and ecosystem degradation to help nature thrive for future generations. The alliance’s work meets the international frameworks including the Global Biodiversity Framework (COP16) reflecting the outcomes of the G20 on biodiversity collaboration.

  • Indian Railways Achieves Record Freight, Passenger Growth in FY26

    Indian Railways Achieves Record Freight, Passenger Growth in FY26

    New Delhi, April 2026: Indian Railways has reported robust growth in both passenger traffic and freight operations for the fiscal year 2025–26, underscoring its role as a vital backbone of the nation’s transport and logistics network.

    Passenger Traffic and Revenue Surge
    During FY26, Indian Railways carried 741 crore passengers, marking a 3.5% increase from 716 crore in FY25. Passenger revenue also grew significantly, reaching approximately ₹80,000 crore, a 6% rise compared to the previous year. The figures highlight the growing reliance on rail travel across urban and rural India, reflecting both convenience and affordability for commuters.

    Freight Operations Set New Records
    Freight traffic hit a new milestone of 1,670 million tonnes (MT), up 3.25% from FY25, accompanied by a 4.5% increase in wagons handled, from 2.79 crore to 2.91 crore. This growth underscores Indian Railways’ efficiency and its critical role in delivering cost-effective logistics solutions for bulk commodities.

    Key Commodities Driving Growth
    Significant growth was recorded in sectors like fertilisers (13.5%) and pig iron & finished steel (13.1%), reflecting rising industrial and agricultural demand. Infrastructure-related commodities, including iron ore (6.7%) and cement (4.7%), also saw strong movement, supporting ongoing construction and development projects nationwide.

    Balanced Regional Growth
    Several railway zones contributed to this growth, with South Western Railway leading at 14.9%, followed by North Central (12.6%), East Coast (10.4%), and West Central (10.1%). Other zones also recorded positive gains, reflecting widespread regional development and improved freight-handling capabilities across the country.

    Freight Revenue Highlights
    Freight earnings reached approximately ₹1,77,754 crore, up 1.44% from FY25. Iron ore emerged as the top revenue contributor, followed by cement, pig iron & steel, fertilisers, food grains, and mineral oil, demonstrating the critical importance of railways in supporting industrial supply chains and trade.

    Driving Connectivity and Economic Growth
    Indian Railways’ achievements in FY26 highlight its dual role: ensuring safe, reliable mobility for millions of passengers and serving as an efficient logistics partner for industries. With consistent operational improvements and capacity expansion, Railways continues to be a key driver of economic growth and national connectivity.

  • Fintech Leads India’s $16B VC Boom with 18% Increase in Investments

    India’s venture capital (VC) ecosystem demonstrated strong growth in 2025, with total investments reaching an estimated $16 billion—up nearly 20% compared to 2024, according to the India Venture Capital Report 2026 by Bain & Company in collaboration with the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA).

    Deal activity also witnessed a significant boost, rising approximately 18% year-on-year, with over 1,300 transactions completed across different stages of funding. This reflects sustained investor confidence in India’s startup ecosystem and its diverse sectors.

    The fintech sector emerged as a major driver of growth, with investment value rebounding more than 2.2 times compared to the previous year. While payments continued to attract the largest share of VC funding, investors increasingly diversified into other fintech sub-sectors offering predictable monetization models, signaling a shift toward sustainable and scalable business opportunities.

    Experts believe this surge in venture capital funding highlights India’s growing prominence as a global startup hub, supported by a robust ecosystem of entrepreneurs, investors, and government initiatives. As more sectors mature and investor strategies evolve, India’s VC landscape is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

  • India’s Auto Industry Accelerates: SUVs and Export Demand Fuel Record Growth

    India’s Auto Industry Accelerates: SUVs and Export Demand Fuel Record Growth

    New Delhi, Apr 2: India’s automobile industry is experiencing a remarkable surge, with strong sales momentum driven by booming SUV demand and rising exports. The combination of domestic enthusiasm for larger, versatile vehicles and growing global orders is propelling the sector to new heights.

    Consumer preferences are increasingly shifting toward SUVs, which offer comfort, performance, and practicality for modern lifestyles. This trend has led automakers to prioritize production in the SUV segment, resulting in consistent month-on-month sales growth. At the same time, Indian vehicles are gaining recognition in international markets, with exports contributing significantly to the industry’s expansion.

    Industry experts note that favorable government policies, increased consumer confidence, and strategic investment in production facilities have amplified this growth. Manufacturers are scaling up capacities, innovating with new models, and meeting the dual demand of domestic buyers and global clients.

    The growth in exports not only strengthens India’s position as a global automotive hub but also creates opportunities for job creation, skill development, and technological innovation. Analysts predict that the continued rise in SUV popularity and international demand will sustain momentum throughout 2026, making it a landmark year for the Indian auto sector.

    As the industry adapts to evolving consumer trends and explores new markets, it stands poised for long-term growth, signaling a bright road ahead for manufacturers, buyers, and the economy alike.

  • PM Modi Launches India’s First Fully Digital Census 2027 by Completing Self‑Enumeration

    New Delhi, Apr 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed his self‑enumeration, marking the official launch of India’s first fully digital Census 2027. This year’s census introduces a modern approach that allows households to submit their information online before the traditional house‑to‑house surveys begin.

    The first phase focuses on collecting detailed information about households and living conditions. Citizens across selected states and Union Territories can now use the digital portal to provide their data, while field enumerators will follow up with in-person visits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

    Highlighting the importance of public participation, the Prime Minister emphasized that the self-enumeration facility empowers citizens to contribute directly to this historic exercise. He urged all households to take part and complete their details digitally, ensuring efficient data collection.

    Census 2027 represents a significant shift from paper-based methods to a digitally driven system. Officials note that this approach will improve accuracy, reduce manual workload, and accelerate the processing of data. This initiative is one of the largest administrative exercises in the world, covering millions of households nationwide.

    The digital census is expected to enhance the quality and timeliness of demographic data, supporting better policy-making, planning, and governance in India for years to come.

  • CBSE to Introduce Computational Thinking and AI for Classes 3–8 from 2026–27

    New Delhi, Apr 2: In a landmark move to prepare students for a technology-driven future, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a new curriculum on Computational Thinking (CT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students in Classes 3 to 8, starting from the 2026–27 academic year.

    The initiative aims to equip young learners with critical problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and a foundational understanding of AI concepts. By introducing these subjects early, the board hopes to nurture creativity, analytical thinking, and digital literacy among students.

    The curriculum will include age-appropriate modules that help children understand how computers solve problems, interpret data, and make decisions. Teachers will receive comprehensive training and support materials to ensure these concepts are delivered effectively in classrooms.

    Education officials believe that integrating computational thinking and AI into school education will not only make students comfortable with digital tools but also foster curiosity and innovation. This step is part of a broader effort to modernize education in India, emphasizing critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and skills for the 21st century.

    With this rollout, students across India will gain early exposure to future-ready skills, enabling them to navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence and creativity.

  • Odia Samaj Tripura Commemorates Utkal Dibas with Cultural Splendor and a Renewed Commitment to Social Impact

    Odia Samaj Tripura Commemorates Utkal Dibas with Cultural Splendor and a Renewed Commitment to Social Impact

    Odia Samaj Tripura marked the 90th Utkal Dibas (Odisha Day) alongside the 16th Foundation Anniversary of the Samaj with remarkable enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy at the Muktadhara Auditorium, Agartala. The grand celebration stood as a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Odisha and Tripura, resonating with the patriotic spirit of Vande Utkal Janani.

    The event was graced by Swami Amartyananda, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Dhaleswar as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he underscored the significance of spiritual values, ethical living, and collective responsibility as pillars for building a harmonious and resilient society.

    Sanjeev Kumar Janjua, Asset Manager of  ONGC Tripura, attended as the Guest of Honour. Acknowledging ONGC’s steadfast support since 2011, the Samaj proposed a forward-looking collaboration to channel CSR initiatives into impactful sectors such as healthcare access, digital education, and sustainable livelihood generation particularly focusing on tea garden communities across Tripura.

    Odia Samaj Tripura Commemorates Utkal Dibas with Cultural Splendor and a Renewed Commitment to Social Impact

    The event was also graced by the distinguished Odia personalities serving in Tripura like Sarat Kumar Patra, Director of NIT Agartala, Dr. Hemant Kumar Pratihari, Director of NFSU & FSL and others. Dr. Pratihari announced financial assistance to the meritorious tea garden students as a token of inspiration.

    The coveted “Priya Odia–2026” award was conferred to Dr. Sarat Kumar Das for his unwavering dedication and outstanding service, symbolizing humility, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to collective progress.

    The audience was enthralled by an exceptional cultural performance by a renowned troupe from the Sanskruti Bharati Dance Academy, deputed by the Government of Odisha as well as the family members and children of Odia Samaj showcased their beautiful performances on richness of Odissi, Sambalpuri, and traditional folk dance forms, evoking deep cultural pride.

    Odia Samaj Tripura Commemorates Utkal Dibas with Cultural Splendor and a Renewed Commitment to Social Impact

    In a heartening display of unity, members of the Odia community from various tea garden regions across Tripura participated enthusiastically, presenting vibrant folk performances. 

    The annual souvenir “Chakadola” was ceremoniously released by the distinguished guests during the event. The publication encapsulates literary expressions, cultural reflections, and chronicles the inspiring journey of Odia Samaj Tripura over the years.

    The President of Odia Samaj Tripura, Bishnu Charan Pati, and the Secretary, Samir Diabagh, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Tripura for their continued affection and “bhalobasha” towards the Odia community. They emphasized that the cultural and emotional bond between Odisha and Tripura continues to strengthen with each passing year.

    The event concluded on a warm and celebratory note with traditional Odia cuisine being served to all participants and guests, further enriching the cultural experience and fostering a spirit of togetherness.

  • Abhee Ventures Launches Scotland-Inspired Luxury Living Concept in Bengaluru

    Bengaluru’s housing market is entering a more sophisticated phase, where luxury is no longer defined by larger homes or premium amenities, but by the depth of experience a residential environment can offer. As the city’s affluent buyer base becomes more globally exposed, there is a growing preference for developments that carry a distinct identity. Communities are being shaped by thoughtful design narratives, landscape-led planning, and a sense of place that extends beyond the apartment itself. This shift is encouraging developers to think more imaginatively about how residential spaces are conceived.

    Within this landscape, Abhee Ventures is preparing to take a significant step forward, conceptualising a residential development inspired by the enduring architectural charm and pastoral serenity associated with Scotland. Since its inception in 2009, Abhee Ventures has built a strong reputation as a dependable name in Bengaluru’s residential market, delivering more than 20+ developments across some of the city’s most sought-after corridors. The company’s journey has been shaped by a consistent emphasis on customer-centric planning, transparent execution, and a design philosophy that prioritises liveability alongside architectural clarity.

    Over the years, its portfolio has expanded across a diverse mix of residential formats; from high-rise communities and thoughtfully planned apartment clusters to villa-led developments, each reflecting a careful balance between scale and quality. As Bengaluru’s housing market matures and buyer expectations evolve, Abhee Ventures is now ready for its next strategic chapter: transitioning from a trusted premium developer to a brand increasingly aligned with experiential luxury, where design depth, landscape integration, and lifestyle curation take centre stage.

    The Concept: A Scotland-Inspired Luxury Township

    At the heart of the development lies a design idea drawn from the enduring romance of Scotland: a land celebrated for its storied architecture, sweeping landscapes, and an unhurried philosophy of living shaped by nature. Rather than borrowing superficially from a theme, the concept seeks to translate the spatial character and aesthetic restraint associated with the Scottish countryside into a contemporary residential environment.

    Architectural design draws inspiration from expansive greens reminiscent of the Highlands, creating a landscape that feels open, serene, and deeply connected to nature.

    Water features like a large man-made lake and mist zones— inspired by Scotland’s iconic lochs—introduce a sense of calm continuity across the community, complemented by material palettes rooted in natural stone and warm timber tones.

    Wellness-focused clubhouses, including four distinct experiences, and 40+ thoughtfully curated amenities are seamlessly integrated within the project—featuring a wellness clubhouse, sports clubhouse, leisure clubhouse, and a country-style golf course–facing clubhouse—designed to elevate everyday living and promote a holistic lifestyle.

    Together with a walkable, European-style township layout that prioritises openness and community interaction, the development aspires to create an immersive living environment where architecture, landscape, and lifestyle flow seamlessly, evoking the quiet elegance of a Scottish retreat within the fabric of urban Bengaluru.

    Bengaluru’s First Residential Golf Course Community

    One of the most distinctive elements envisioned within the development is a private golf course woven into the fabric of the township: an amenity rarely integrated into residential communities in Bengaluru.Spanning a 3-par golf course, the landscape draws inspiration from Scotland, widely regarded as the birthplace of modern golf, where the sport is as much a cultural ritual as it is a leisure pursuit.

    In the Indian context, golf has traditionally remained the preserve of exclusive clubs or destination resorts; embedding it within a residential masterplan introduces an altogether different lifestyle proposition. Beyond its sporting appeal, the course also functions as an expansive green anchor for the community, offering open sightlines, a tranquil environmental buffer, and a shared social space that subtly elevates the character of the neighbourhood. In doing so, it transforms golf from a distant luxury into an everyday experience of refined living, reinforcing the project’s ambition to redefine the contours of luxury housing in the city.

    The Strategic Significance for Abhee Ventures

    Taken together, the vision behind this development represents a meaningful inflection point in Abhee Ventures’ journey as a brand. Having built its reputation on thoughtfully planned premium housing, the company now appears to be stepping into a more ambitious phase defined by large-format and concept-led communities that place lifestyle and environment at the centre of residential design. The scale and thematic depth of the township signal a deliberate move toward experiential luxury, reflecting both the company’s growing design confidence and its belief in the evolving aspirations of Bengaluru’s homebuyers.

    As Bengaluru’s residential market continues to mature, the definition of luxury is gradually shifting from sheer scale to the quality and character of the living experience itself. Global design influences, nature-led planning, and curated community experiences are becoming central to this evolving aspiration. Therefore, the next phase of the city’s housing market is likely to be shaped by developers who can pair imaginative, concept-driven design with the credibility of consistent execution. 


    Business News For Profit

  • Ezeepay Launches UPI Cash-Out Service for Retail Withdrawals

    New Delhi,  April 02: Ezeepay, a leading fintech platform enabling assisted digital financial services across India, has announced the launch of its new UPI Cash-Out service, allowing customers to withdraw cash seamlessly through its widespread network of banking outlets. The service is expected to go live in the second week of April, in compliance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.

    With this new feature, customers can now use UPI to withdraw cash ranging from a minimum of ₹1,000 to a maximum of ₹5,000 per transaction, with a monthly withdrawal cap of ₹50,000. The service will be available across Ezeepay’s extensive network of agents and retail outlets, ensuring easy access to cash, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas.

    In addition, the platform has introduced a nominal commission model, where each cash withdrawal transaction will carry a fee, capped at ₹10 per transaction, ensuring affordability for users while creating an additional income stream for agents and retail partners.

    Commenting on the launch, Mr. Shams Tabrej, Co-founder & CEO, Ezeepay, said:

     “At Ezeepay, our mission has always been to bridge the gap between digital and physical financial services. With the introduction of UPI Cash-Out, we are empowering customers with a simple and secure way to access cash through their trusted neighborhood retailers. This service not only enhances financial convenience for users but also creates an additional income stream for our agents and retail partners, strengthening the overall ecosystem.”

    The initiative aligns with the broader vision of enhancing digital financial inclusion, enabling users, particularly in underserved regions, to benefit from a seamless blend of digital and physical financial services. For Ezeepay’s agent network, the feature is expected to drive higher footfall and recurring earnings, further strengthening the company’s grassroots presence.

    As digital payments continue to rise across India, Ezeepay’s UPI Cash-Out service aims to address the persistent need for cash accessibility, ensuring that convenience, compliance, and customer-centricity remain at the core of its offerings.


    Business News For Profit

  • Premium Fuel Prices Surge Amid Global Supply Concerns

    Premium Fuel Prices Surge Amid Global Supply Concerns

    Oil marketing companies have increased the prices of premium petrol and diesel from April 1, reflecting the impact of global supply disruptions. The price of IndianOil XP100 petrol has risen by ₹11 per litre, reaching around ₹160 per litre.

    Premium diesel has also seen a price hike, with rates increasing marginally from ₹91.49 to ₹92.99 per litre. Despite these revisions, the prices of regular petrol and diesel remain unchanged for now.

    Fuel retailers, including Indian Oil Corporation, have attributed the increase to ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting crude oil supply, particularly in the Middle East.

    The price of commercial LPG has also gone up significantly. A 19-kg cylinder now costs ₹2,078.50 in Delhi after a steep hike of ₹195.50, continuing last month’s upward trend.

    Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices also experienced volatility. Although an initial sharp increase was expected, the final revision was moderated following discussions between oil companies and government authorities, limiting the overall impact on the aviation sector.

    The latest price adjustments underline how global uncertainties continue to influence domestic fuel markets, potentially adding to cost pressures across transport and commercial sectors.