Blog

  • The British School New Delhi Hosts Global Education and Admissions Forum

    New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): The British School New Delhi hosted the first CIS India Institute on International Admission and Guidance from April 10 to 12, 2026.

    Organised in collaboration with the Council of International Schools (CIS), the event brought together representatives from over 60 universities across 14 countries, along with 20 schools from India.

    The institute served as a platform for interaction between Indian schools and global universities, aiming to strengthen guidance systems and create clearer pathways for students seeking higher education abroad.

    Participants discussed international admissions processes, student counselling strategies, and opportunities for expanding global academic collaboration.

  • GoCredit Rolls Out AI-Powered Loan Assistant to Simplify Borrowing

    Bangalore, Apr 15 (BNP): Financial intelligence platform GoCredit has launched what it claims to be India’s first AI-powered Loan Agent in Bengaluru, introducing a chat-based system that helps users find and apply for personal loans through a single conversational interface.

    The AI tool allows borrowers to compare loan options, check eligibility, and complete applications within one interaction, simplifying the lending process.

    According to the company, the system has been in active use since March 2026 and is already processing real loan applications.

    GoCredit also reported that it has facilitated over ₹100 crore in loan disbursals, generated more than 15 million loan offers, and served over 2 million borrowers so far.

    The platform aims to make credit access faster, more transparent, and easier for users through artificial intelligence-driven solutions.

  • Virtual Galaxy Infotech Limited Signs USD 1.1 Million Software Development Contract with Botswana Development Corporation

    Nagpur, Apr 15: Virtual Galaxy Infotech Limited, a leading provider of AI-enabled hybrid SaaS platforms and enterprise software solutions, has announced the signing of a Software Development Agreement with Botswana Development Corporation LimitedBotswana. 

    Under the terms of the agreement, the Company will deliver comprehensive, end-to-end software development services. The scope includes solution design, implementation, licensing, maintenance, and ongoing technical support. Additionally, the project covers integration with third-party systems, system testing, user training, maintenance support, and disaster recovery services. 

    The total contract value stands at USD 1,099,000 (USD One Million Ninety-Nine Thousand only), exclusive of applicable taxes. The agreement will remain valid for 48 months from the date of commencement. 

    The Company’s strong execution capabilities are reflected in its recent financial performance. For FY26, Virtual Galaxy Infotech expects to clock a turnover of Rs 182.06 crore, registering a robust year-on-year growth of 51.53%, compared to Rs 120.14 crore in FY25. Consistent demand momentum, deeper client engagements, expansion into new opportunities, and increasing adoption of digital and AI-led solutions across industries have driven this growth. 

    Mr Avinash Shende, Chairman, Executive Director & CFO, Virtual Galaxy Infotech Limited, said, ” We are partnering with Botswana Development Corporation Limited, which marks an important step in our global expansion. It reflects the trust we’re building beyond India and our ability to deliver scalable, high-quality, AI-enabled, hybrid SaS technology-led solutions to global clients. Our focus has always been on building practical solutions that help clients improve how they operate, with AI now becoming a bigger part of that journey. The growth we’ve seen in FY26 gives us confidence that we’re on the right track. We see this as the start of a long-term relationship and an opportunity to expand further in international markets.”

  • R Ashwin Backs Ruturaj Gaikwad to Bounce Back as CSK Hit Winning Form

    New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has expressed confidence in Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, saying the team’s recent victories will help him settle into the season after a difficult start.

    CSK began their campaign with three consecutive losses but have since recovered with back-to-back wins against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, lifting team morale and easing early pressure.

    Ashwin believes the improved results will allow Gaikwad to play with greater freedom as captain and focus on regaining his batting rhythm. He also suggested that a minor adjustment in approach at the top of the order could benefit the opener in the T20 format.

    With momentum shifting in their favour, the five-time IPL champions will aim to maintain their winning run in the upcoming fixtures.

  • India’s Housing Launches Concentrated in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Pune: Report

    New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): A recent report shows that India’s residential real estate market continued to be concentrated in major urban centres during the first quarter of 2026, with Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Pune accounting for nearly 60% of new housing launches.

    India’s Housing Launches Concentrated in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Pune: Report

     The data highlights strong activity in these key metropolitan markets, driven by steady demand, improved infrastructure, and continued interest from both end-users and investors.

    Experts note that these cities remain attractive due to better job opportunities, urban development, and expanding housing options across multiple segments.

    Overall, the report indicates that while housing supply is growing in several parts of the country, major metro cities continue to dominate new residential project launches.

  • Indian Tanker ‘Jag Vikram’ Completes Hormuz Passage, Reaches Kandla

    Gujarat, Apr 15 (BNP): An Indian-flagged LPG tanker, Jag Vikram, has safely arrived at Kandla Port in Gujarat after carrying out a successful voyage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy shipping route.

    The vessel, owned by Mumbai-based Great Eastern Shipping Company, was carrying around 20,400 metric tonnes of LPG and had 24 crew members on board. It crossed the strategic waterway on April 11 before reaching Kandla on Tuesday morning, according to maritime tracking sources.

    The safe transit is being seen as a reassuring development for India’s energy supply chain, given the importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global oil and gas movement.

    The voyage also comes amid easing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, following reports of a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, which has raised hopes of smoother maritime trade operations in the coming days.

  • St. Kitts & Nevis Opens High Commission in India to Boost Diplomatic Relations

    New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): St. Kitts and Nevis has inaugurated its High Commission in India, marking a significant step forward in diplomatic relations between the two nations.

    The establishment of the mission is expected to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges. It will also facilitate closer coordination between the two governments and improve engagement on bilateral issues.

    Officials said the move reflects the growing partnership between India and St. Kitts and Nevis, with both sides looking to expand collaboration in multiple sectors.

    The High Commission will also provide improved consular services, making support more accessible for citizens and strengthening people-to-people connections.

  • Iran–US tensions hit India: Edible oil up 7%, appliances costlier by 15%

    New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): Escalating tensions between Iran and the United States are beginning to impact everyday life in India, with rising crude oil prices triggering a broad-based increase in the cost of essential commodities and consumer goods. From kitchen staples to household appliances, prices are already climbing and are expected to rise further, putting additional pressure on household budgets.

    Iran–US tensions hit India: Edible oil up 7%, appliances costlier by 15%

    Cooking Oil Prices Rise Amid Import Dependence
    One of the earliest visible impacts has been on cooking oil prices, which have increased by over 7%. India meets nearly 57% of its edible oil demand through imports, making it highly vulnerable to global supply disruptions. Key oils such as palm, soybean and sunflower have been directly affected. The surge in crude oil prices has also raised transportation and logistics costs, further inflating retail prices.

    FMCG Products Under Pressure; Shrinkflation Returns
    Daily-use FMCG products, including soap, shampoo and biscuits, are also witnessing price pressures. Companies are either increasing prices or resorting to “shrinkflation”—reducing product quantities while maintaining the same price—to offset rising input costs. Higher energy prices have pushed up raw material and packaging expenses.

    Consumer Durables Turn Costlier
    Consumer durables such as air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines and LED televisions have recorded price increases of up to 15%. The rise is attributed to higher costs of metals, components and logistics, all linked to the spike in global crude oil prices.

    Wider Impact Across Sectors
    Beyond FMCG and appliances, sectors such as textiles, paints and plastics are also witnessing increased production costs. Industry experts warn that if geopolitical tensions persist, inflationary pressures could intensify in the coming months.

    Outlook
    Economists caution that continued volatility in crude oil prices may sustain upward pressure on costs across sectors, affecting both businesses and consumers. Further price hikes cannot be ruled out if supply chain disruptions deepen.

  • Coca-Cola India Brings Diljit Dosanjh and Janhvi Kapoor Onboard to Reimagine ‘Halftime’ Moments

    Coca-Cola India Brings Diljit Dosanjh and Janhvi Kapoor Onboard to Reimagine ‘Halftime’ Moments

    Apr 15: CocaCola® today announced its campaign featuring Diljit Dosanjh and Janhvi Kapoor, bringing the idea of a “cocacola halftime” to life in everyday momentsAt its core, the idea is built on the belief that a halftime should do more than simply pause the day, it should draw you back into it. 

    CocaCola, with its delicious and refreshing taste, plays the role of that uplifting break, creating a sense of warmth and connection within everyday experiences. It becomes a simple, accessible ritual, a small yet powerful halftime that allows people to feel more present, feel closer to those around them, and stay in tune with their surroundings. 

    Karthik Subramanian, Senior Director, Marketing, CocaCola India & Southwest Asia said: “Today’s consumers are navigating lives that are fuller and faster than ever before. And yet, what they increasingly value are small, meaningful breaks that help them stay grounded in the moment. CocaCola, known for its signature taste, has long been part of these everyday rituals, and this campaign celebrates how a simple halftime can bring people closer to what matters around them.” 

    Conceptualized by WPP Open X led by VML., the films, launched as part of the campaign, find beauty in the ‘in-between’, those autopilot moments where we are physically present but mentally elsewhere. Whether it is Diljit Dosanjh caught in the rhythm of a rehearsal or Janhvi Kapoor immersed in her thoughts during a hangout, CocaCola acts as a refreshing spark. A single sip brings the world back into focus, turning a routine break into an uplifting experience that grounds you in the present. 

    Speaking about the film, Nakul Sharma & Tirtha Ghosh, Executive Creative Director, VML shared, “For us, this campaign was about capturing that universal human truth. We all crave presence, but modern life constantly pulls us away. We wanted to show how CocaCola isn’t just a drink…it’s a micro moment of reconnection. It’s the simple, uplifting beat that helps you snap back into the now, transforming those checked out moments into something truly alive. It’s about bringing back the joy of being here.” 

    Rolling out across key markets including Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, the campaign is supported by a strong television, digital, and social presence. It is further brought to life through locally rooted storytelling, with Diljit Dosanjh’s film rolling out across Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, while Janhvi Kapoor features in the Tamil adaptation, alongside a dedicated Kannada film. 

    The campaign is complemented by an original soundtrack by Donn Bhat, with vocals by Vivek Hariharan and Aarifah Rebello, adding a distinctive retro sonic layer. Through these locally rooted narratives, CocaCola continues to strengthen its connection with audiences, celebrating the power of a simple coca cola halftime.

  • Sensex, Nifty Rally in Early Trade Amid Positive Global Sentiment

    Apr 15 ( BNP): Indian stock markets started the trading session on a strong note on Wednesday, supported by positive global cues and easing crude oil prices.

    The BSE Sensex rose sharply by 1,422.85 points to 78,270.42 in early trade, while the Nifty 50 advanced 438.25 points to 24,280.90.

    The upward movement was driven by gains in global equities and a decline in oil prices, which slipped below the $100 per barrel level. Market sentiment also improved amid expectations of renewed diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran.

    All Sensex constituents traded in positive territory during early deals, with strong buying seen in stocks such as InterGlobe Aviation, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, Eternal, Larsen & Toubro, and Bajaj Finance.

    Overall, investors showed strong buying interest, reflecting improved risk appetite in global and domestic markets.