Crystal Crop Protection Limited’s Initial Public Offering to open on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, price band set at Rs 259– Rs 272 per Equity Share

Mumbai, 13 November, 2026 – Crystal Crop Protection has fixed the price band of Rs 259 to Rs 272 per Equity Share of face value Rs 10 / - each for its maiden initial public offer.

The Initial Public Offering (“IPO” or “Offer”) of the Company will open on Wednesday, November 18, 2026 for subscription and close on Friday, November 20, 2026. Investors can bid for a minimum of 55 Equity Shares and in multiples of 55 Equity Shares thereafter.

The IPO, with a face value of Rs 10, is a fresh issue for up to Rs 355 crore and an offer-for-sale for up to 3,702,694 equity shares by promoter – Ankur Aggarwal.

The proceeds from its fresh issuance worth Rs 247.9 crore will be used for repayment/pre-payment, in full or part, of certain borrowings availed by the company, Rs 22 crore for investment in its material subsidiary namely Saffire Crop Science Private Limited for repayment/ pre-payment, in full or in part, of all or a portion of certain of its outstanding borrowings, funding inorganic growth through unidentified acquisitions and strategic initiatives and general corporate purposes.

The company is a crop solutions company with agrochemicals and seeds at the core of our offerings. Its diversified portfolio includes products for crop protection such as herbicides, fungicides, insecticides and natural crop solutions such as bio-stimulants, bio-protectants, plant growth regulators, liquid fertilizers and micronutrients; and seeds such as for field crops, vegetable crops and flowers. Its offerings are customized for Indian farmers through research and development (R&D) including collaborations with various multinational companies. It operates on a fully integrated model, that integrates robust synthesis R&D in crop protection products and natural crop solutions as well as robust seeds breeding program, with backward-integrated technology enabled manufacturing and pan-India distribution, with a farmer-centric approach.

The company offers a wide range of crop protection products and natural crop solutions. It is engaged in the development, manufacturing and distribution of agrochemicals under the following categories - crop protection products, sub-categorized under herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and combinations thereof; and natural crop solutions, comprising bio-stimulants, bioprotectants, plant growth regulators, liquid fertilizers and micro nutrients under its division which is strategically designed to complement its existing crop protection products and natural crop solutions business, providing farmers with integrated and sustainable crop management solutions and technical grade active ingredients (Technicals), which are utilized in the manufacture of agrochemical formulations.

IIFL Capital Services, DAM Capital Advisors and Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors are the book running lead managers, and MUFG Intime India Private Limited is the registrar of the offer.

The issue is being made through the book-building process, in line with SEBI ICDR Regulations, with not more than 50% reserved for Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs), not less than 15% for Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs), and not less than 35% for Retail Individual Investors (RIIs).

Notes for Reference: 

Issue Size of the IPO based on the upper and lower end of the price band

Fresh Issue   

OFS (equity shares)

Total  

Lower Band (@Rs 259)

Rs 355 crore

3,702,694 shares 

Rs 451.90 crore

Upper Band (@Rs 272)

Rs 355 crore

3,702,694 shares 

Rs 455.72 crore

HDFC Life launches ‘Lift Your Protection’; a digital microdrama series to drive relevance of life insurance among younger audiences

The four-episode series builds on the company’s sustained focus on protection, using short-form, entertainment-led storytelling

Mumbai, 11th November, 2026: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, has launched ‘Lift Your Protection’, a four-episode digital microdrama series aimed at strengthening relevance of life insurance among younger audiences. Building on the company’s sustained efforts to make Protection a more integral part of financial planning, the initiative uses short-form, entertainment-led storytelling to bring the relevance of life insurance into the everyday lives of consumers.

Protection has been a consistent focus of HDFC Life’s marketing efforts. ‘Lift Your Protection’ microdrama builds on their recent Term campaign, extending the conversation through a contemporary content format that resonates with evolving audience preferences. Beyond building awareness, the series seeks to encourage audiences to reflect on their own protection needs and recognise the role of term insurance in safeguarding their families’ financial futures.

Set during an everyday elevator ride, the story follows four individuals occupied with their plans and responsibilities, until an unexpected turn interrupts their day. Through relatable characters and unfolding drama, the series highlights a familiar reality: while people carefully plan many aspects of their lives, preparing financially for unforeseen events can often take a back seat. By placing protection within a relatable, everyday narrative, the series aims to bridge the gap between recognising the need for financial security and considering life insurance as a meaningful step towards achieving it.

Commenting on the launch, Pritika Shah, Head of Marketing and CSR, HDFC Life, said, “At HDFC Life, our focus on Term insurance is supported by a sustained, consideration-led approach with a clear cut-out marketing strategy for various consumer cohorts. To meet the evolving consumer needs and behaviours, we need to continue to build relevance for life insurance through tailored propositions.  With ‘Lift Your Protection’, we are bringing the protection conversation into an entertaining microdrama – which is currently a popular format – keeping our digital lives in mind, especially our younger audience.”

The episodic format brings continuity and curiosity to the conversation, connecting with younger consumers through the content experiences they increasingly choose to watch today. By making protection relevant and relatable, the series adds another dimension to HDFC Life’s efforts to move the conversation beyond awareness towards greater consideration of life insurance and Term insurance.

The series is available on HDFC Life’s digital and social channels.

Click here to watch the series.

About HDFC Life

Established in 2000, HDFC Life is a leading, listed, long-term life insurance solutions provider in India, offering a range of individual and group insurance solutions that meet various customer needs such as Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity and Health. The Company has over 70 products (individual and group products) including optional riders in its portfolio, catering to a diverse range of customer needs. 

HDFC Life continues to benefit from its increased presence across the country, having a wide reach with branches and additional distribution touch-points through several new tie-ups and partnerships. The count of distribution partnerships is over 500, comprising banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, new ecosystem partners amongst others. The Company has a strong base of financial consultants. 

For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

HDFC Life launches ‘Lift Your Protection’; a digital microdrama series to drive relevance of life insurance among younger audiences

The four-episode series builds on the company’s sustained focus on protection, using short-form, entertainment-led storytelling

Mumbai, 11th November, 2026: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, has launched ‘Lift Your Protection’, a four-episode digital microdrama series aimed at strengthening relevance of life insurance among younger audiences. Building on the company’s sustained efforts to make Protection a more integral part of financial planning, the initiative uses short-form, entertainment-led storytelling to bring the relevance of life insurance into the everyday lives of consumers.

Protection has been a consistent focus of HDFC Life’s marketing efforts. ‘Lift Your Protection’ microdrama builds on their recent Term campaign, extending the conversation through a contemporary content format that resonates with evolving audience preferences. Beyond building awareness, the series seeks to encourage audiences to reflect on their own protection needs and recognise the role of term insurance in safeguarding their families’ financial futures.

Set during an everyday elevator ride, the story follows four individuals occupied with their plans and responsibilities, until an unexpected turn interrupts their day. Through relatable characters and unfolding drama, the series highlights a familiar reality: while people carefully plan many aspects of their lives, preparing financially for unforeseen events can often take a back seat. By placing protection within a relatable, everyday narrative, the series aims to bridge the gap between recognising the need for financial security and considering life insurance as a meaningful step towards achieving it.

Commenting on the launch, Pritika Shah, Head of Marketing and CSR, HDFC Life, said, “At HDFC Life, our focus on Term insurance is supported by a sustained, consideration-led approach with a clear cut-out marketing strategy for various consumer cohorts. To meet the evolving consumer needs and behaviours, we need to continue to build relevance for life insurance through tailored propositions.  With ‘Lift Your Protection’, we are bringing the protection conversation into an entertaining microdrama – which is currently a popular format – keeping our digital lives in mind, especially our younger audience.”

The episodic format brings continuity and curiosity to the conversation, connecting with younger consumers through the content experiences they increasingly choose to watch today. By making protection relevant and relatable, the series adds another dimension to HDFC Life’s efforts to move the conversation beyond awareness towards greater consideration of life insurance and Term insurance.

The series is available on HDFC Life’s digital and social channels.

Click here to watch the series.

About HDFC Life

Established in 2000, HDFC Life is a leading, listed, long-term life insurance solutions provider in India, offering a range of individual and group insurance solutions that meet various customer needs such as Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity and Health. The Company has over 70 products (individual and group products) including optional riders in its portfolio, catering to a diverse range of customer needs. 

HDFC Life continues to benefit from its increased presence across the country, having a wide reach with branches and additional distribution touch-points through several new tie-ups and partnerships. The count of distribution partnerships is over 500, comprising banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, new ecosystem partners amongst others. The Company has a strong base of financial consultants. 

For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com. You may also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Glimpses of the Diwali celebrations and the auspicious occasion of Muhurat Trading at the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE).

 

Our MD & CEO, Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, was joined by renowned actors Smt. Poonam Dhillon, Smt. Padmini Kolhapure, Smt. Sheeba Agarwal, filmmaker Shri Bharatbala and Shri. Ram Lal, All India Outreach Head of RSS and Swami Vigyananda ji, Founder World Hindu Congress & World Hindu Economic Forum for the traditional Lakshmi Pujan and the ceremonial bell ringing.

 

*Rapido’s Manasvi Mann Nominated to the National Social Security Board for Gig and Platform Workers*

The Board aims to strengthen social security and welfare measures for India's growing gig and platform workforce

*Mumbai/Bengaluru, Nov 3, 2026:* Rapido, India's leading ride-sharing and mobility platform, welcomes the nomination of Manasvi Mann, General Counsel and Head of Corporate Affairs & Public Policy at Rapido, to the National Social Security Board for Gig and Platform Workers, constituted by the Government of India. The constitution of the Board was formally notified through an Extraordinary Gazette notification by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Rapido is the only app-based passenger mobility aggregator among the five platform companies selected for representation.

The Board brings together representatives from digital platforms, worker organisations, Central and State Governments, and subject-matter experts to strengthen social protection for India's growing gig workforce. Its mandate includes recommending social security schemes and advising the government on welfare measures covering life and disability insurance, accident protection, health and maternity benefits, and old-age security.

 *Commenting on his nomination, Manasvi Mann, General Counsel and Head of Corporate Affairs & Public Policy, Rapido, said: "The gig and platform workforce is an important part of India's evolving economy, enabling millions of people to access flexible livelihood opportunities. As this ecosystem grows, strengthening social security and welfare measures for these workers becomes increasingly important. This calls for a collaborative approach involving workers, industry and policymakers. I look forward to contributing to the Board's discussions and bringing the perspectives of the passenger mobility sector to the table to help shape inclusive and effective social security measures.* "

Platform-based services have emerged as an important source of livelihood across India. In passenger mobility, bike taxi, auto, and cab services provide flexible earning opportunities for lakhs of Captains, while highlighting the importance of accessible social security and welfare benefits.

Through its representation on the Board, Rapido looks forward to bringing its operational experience and industry perspective into national-level discussions on worker welfare. The company believes that sustained collaboration between government, industry, and worker organisations will be essential to building a more inclusive and sustainable social security framework for India's gig and platform workforce.

Chhattisgarh-based South Eastern Coalfields Limited files DRHP for IPO

Chhattisgarh-based South Eastern Coalfields Limited has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its Initial Public Offering (IPO).

The IPO, with a face value of Rs 2, is an offer-for-sale for up to 668,056,100 equity shares by promoter - Coal India Limited.

The Offer is being made through the book-building process, wherein not more than 50% of the net offer is allocated to qualified institutional buyers, and not more 15% and 35% of the net offer is assigned to non-institutional bidders and retail.

 Incorporated in 1985, the company one of the largest coal producers in India in terms of production in Fiscal 2026, with production of 176.29 million tonnes of coal, accounting for 16.94% of India’s total coal production in Fiscal 2026 (Source - CRISIL Report). The company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), is headquartered in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, and was conferred with Miniratna Category - I status on March 15, 2007 and in 2025, completed 40 years of coal mining operations.

The company is the second largest coal producer among CIL’s subsidiaries, accounting for 22.95% of CIL’s total coal production in Fiscal 2026 (Source - CRISIL Report). Its coal production increased by 5.25% from 167.49 million tonnes in Fiscal 2025 to 176.29 million tonnes in Fiscal 2026, representing the highest production growth among CIL’s subsidiaries during the period. (Source: CRISIL Report)

As of April 1, 2026, its total coal geological resources were approximately 47.55 billion tonnes, representing approximately 11.50% of India’s total coal geological resources, of which approximately 10.93 billion tonnes have been projectized (Source: DMT and CRISIL Report). Separately, as of April 1, 2026, its audited coal reserves stood at 4.61 billion tonnes and based on our Fiscal 2026 annual production level of 176.29 million tonnes, these audited coal reserves are sufficient to sustain our production operations for approximately 26 years (Source - DMT and CRISIL Report). Its Gevra and Kusmunda opencast mines in the Korba coalfield, Chhattisgarh, are among the largest coal mines in the world, having been ranked the second and fourth largest coal mines globally by production capacity, respectively, with Gevra mines recognised as Asia’s largest and

world’s second largest coal mining operations in Fiscal 2026 (Source - CRISIL Report). The central location of its coalfields in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, together with its substantial resource base, enables the company to provide a steady and reliable supply of non-coking coal to customers across northern, western and central regions.

 The company holds approximately 59,022.44 hectares (590.22 square kilometres) of land inclusive of acquired and leased land Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal. Its mining rights extend over approximately 126,529.81 hectares, comprising mining rights acquired under the Coal Bearing Areas (Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957, which are perpetual in nature, and 39 mining leases granted under the Mineral Concession Rules, 1960. The balance land holdings, whether vested or leased-in, are predominantly utilised for residential settlements and related infrastructure.

As of September 30, 2026, the company had 53 producing mines, comprising 19 opencast mines and 34 underground mines, across 13 operating areas within the Korba, Mand-Raigarh and Central India coalfields (Source - CRISIL Report).

For the six months ended September 30, 2026 and September 30, 2025 and for Fiscals 2026, 2025 and 2024, 91.76%, 92.69%, 93.64%, 92.91% and 93.61% of its total coal production, respectively, was from opencast mines.

Coal produced through continuous miners increased by 38.65% from 3.70 million tonnes in the six months ended September 30, 2025 to 5.13 million tonnes in the six months ended September 30, 2026. It has rail connectivity through the South East Central Railway zone of Indian Railways along with dedicated MGR systems and belt conveyors to pithead power stations, and rail corridors being developed through its subsidiaries, which enable efficient evacuation of coal across India. 

Its evacuation infrastructure is also supported by an extensive road transportation network, with road dispatch accounting for 66.65 million tonnes, or 37.31% of its total coal dispatch, in Fiscal 2026. 

In line with its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, it has implemented measures to minimize its ecological footprint. 

Its revenue from operations for the six-months ended September 30, 2026 was Rs 16,593.7 crore as compared to Rs 15,090.2 crore. Its net profit was Rs 2,174.3 crore for the six-months ended September 30, 2026 as compared to Rs 1140.9 crore a year earlier.  

Its revenue from operations was Rs 32,956.5 crore during FY26 as compared to Rs 29,998.3 crore in FY25. Its net profit was Rs 4,754.5 crore during FY26 as compared to Rs 4,540.4 crore in FY25.  

SBI Capital Markets Limited, ICICI Securities Limited, IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Limited and Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited are the book-running lead managers. KFIN Technologies is the registrar of the offer. The equity shares are proposed to be listed on BSE and NSE.  

IPO Bound Sarva Foam Industries announces £6 Million Investment in Scotland

Proposed manufacturing facility to support sustainability, resource recovery along with Scotland and India trade ties

Mumbai, October 29, 2026: Sarva Foam Industries Limited (“Company”), has announced a planned investment of £6 million in Scotland to establish a new manufacturing facility, marking the first phase of its proposed expansion in Scotland.

The announcement was welcomed by Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, during his visit to Sarva Foam’s office. The proposed investment reflects the Company’s focus on expanding/ building its manufacturing presence and supply chain in Europe and help mitigate risks such as geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain bottlenecks and high transportation costs thereby driving greater operational efficiency and cost optimization in markets outside India and strengthening economic ties between India and Scotland.

Mr. Kunal Giani, CMD, Sarva Foam Industries said, “We are planning to establish a foam-recycling manufacturing operation in Scotland, with an initial investment of approximately £6 million. Drawing on our manufacturing expertise, the operation would turn discarded foam into carpet underlay and flooring products, keeping materials out of landfill and contributing to Scotland’s circular economy and net zero goals. If the first phase succeeds and the broader commercial and funding arrangements are confirmed, total investment could reach up to £12 million over three years, with the potential to generate up to 100 jobs in Scotland, including skilled manufacturing positions. Deloitte is advising the Company on inorganic growth initiatives and is helping shape and advance this potential investment. We discussed this opportunity with the First Minister and will continue working with Scottish Enterprise to deliver the project.

Mr. John Swinney, The First Minister, Scotland, added, “This planned investment from Sarva Foam is a fantastic example of how Indian capital can help drive growth, build prosperity and create jobs in Scotland. Given the focus on using a circular economy model and utilising used materials, the new facility will also contribute to our ambitions to support green, sustainable jobs as we move towards net zero. Bolstering trade and investment relationships with India offers a golden opportunity for a wide range of Scottish businesses and for Scotland’s economy. Our strengths in technology, financial services and clean energy – make us uniquely placed to match India’s priorities for investment. Our own independent analysis showing Scotland and India’s trading partnership could be worth more than £3 billion a year by 2030.”

 

The proposed investment represents an opportunity to deepen collaboration between Indian industry and Scotland’s manufacturing ecosystem, creating avenues for long-term growth, sustainable production and cross-border business partnerships.

About the Sarva Foam Industries Limited

Incorporated in 2018, the Company is a specialized manufacturer and trader of rebonded polyurethane (PU) foam, operating a circular-economy business model that converts PU foam trims and off-cuts into value-added rebonded foam products. We are the largest rebonded Polyurethane (PU) Foam player in India (with an estimated market share of around 33% (FY 2026) and also the largest exporter of rebonded PU foam products in India. (Source: D&B Report)

 

The Company operates under three product segments: (i) Rebonded Foam Sheets which are precision-cut sheets for mattresses, furniture and flooring; (ii) Rebonded Foam Blocks which are high-density engineered blocks for industrial conversion and (iii) Rebonded Carpet Underlays which are continuous rolls for carpet, sports & acoustic flooring.

 

The Company operates out of its four existing strategically located manufacturing facilities with one unit in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh (Northern India), one unit in Silvassa, Dadra & Nagar Haveli (Western India) and two units in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu (Southern India). Its aggregate manufacturing capacity as of March 31, 2026 is 15,500 metric tonnes per annum.

From Aragonda to a Healthier India: Apollo’s Total Health Model Demonstrates How Rural Healthcare Can Transform Lives

From a rural hospital to a model for integrated community development, Apollo Foundation's initiatives have impacted over 483 million people through healthcare, education, nutrition, livelihoods and other essential services

Aragonda, Andhra Pradesh, October 29, 2026 – Demonstrating how healthcare can become a catalyst for community transformation, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited (AHEL) and Apollo Foundation today celebrated the impact of the Total Health model in Aragonda, in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district. What began with a rural hospital has evolved into an integrated approach to community development, bringing together healthcare, preventive health, education, nutrition, safe drinking water, skill development and livelihood opportunities to impact over 483 million people.

Launched by Apollo Foundation in Aragonda in 2013, Total Health, a CSR initiative of AHEL, extends Apollo’s vision of healthcare beyond clinical care to address the wider determinants of lifelong wellbeing. The initiative has since expanded to over 23 geographies, delivered more than 2 lakh yoga training sessions, and served over 10.89 lakh meals through its nutritious meal programme over the 13 years since its inception. It has also enabled rural employment for over 300 women through textile and jute production units.

Ms. Upasana Kamineni Konidela, Vice Chairperson – CSR and Director – Projects, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., said, “Aragonda has shown that lasting health outcomes are created beyond the walls of a hospital. The transformation we have witnessed here demonstrates how integrated, community-led healthcare models can create sustainable change and serve as a blueprint for replication across other states and underserved regions.”

Commenting on the journey, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “Aragonda is where my journey began, and it has always strengthened my belief that quality, affordable healthcare must reach every Indian, regardless of where they live. We began by bringing modern medicine to this village. But the true promise of healthcare lies beyond treating disease – in creating conditions for people to flourish. Medicine can save lives, but to change the health of a generation, we must also change the conditions in which life is lived. I believe Aragonda will stand for an idea larger than itself: that a healthier India will be built not only in its great cities, but in its smallest villages.”

Building Healthier Communities, Beyond Healthcare

Apollo Foundation works through its various arms and partners, including Total Health, Billion Hearts Beating Foundation, Apollo Telemedicine Networking Foundation, SACHi and Aragonda Vikas Trust, to deliver a range of community-focused interventions. These span primary healthcare, diagnostics, telemedicine, mobile medical services, cancer screening and access to treatment, as well as free heart surgeries and lifelong follow-up for children.

Ms. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., added, “Over the past two decades, Apollo Hospitals Aragonda has demonstrated that the impact of healthcare extends far beyond clinical care. Through its pioneering model, the hospital has not only improved health outcomes but also enabled women to access livelihoods, strengthened families and enabled communities to take ownership of their wellbeing.”

Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals said, “India’s next healthcare revolution will not be measured by how many hospitals we build, but by how many illnesses we prevent and how many healthy years we add to people’s lives. Aragonda is our living blueprint for that future—where technology, prevention and community empowerment come together to make world-class healthcare accessible to every Indian, regardless of their pin code.”

Livelihood generation is another key pillar of Total Health. Through apparel and jute production units in Aragonda, Amrabad and Chevella, the programme promotes women's economic independence. In the past year alone, around 300 women working through these units produced nearly 2.9 lakh jute bags and over 1.25 lakh pieces of clothing.

Bringing Orthopaedic Care Closer to Home: 1,000 Knee Replacements in Aragonda

Driven by his conviction that world-class healthcare should not remain confined to large cities, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, Founder Chairman of the Apollo Hospitals Group, established a 50-bed secondary care hospital in Aragonda, his birthplace, in 2000. Twenty-six years later, Apollo Hospitals Aragonda has served more than 1.67 lakh patients and completed over 12,000 surgeries, including a milestone of 1,000 total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries. The achievement underscores how advanced healthcare can be made accessible to rural communities, reducing the need for patients to travel to distant cities for specialised treatment.

The hospital's total knee replacement programme has grown steadily, from 100 procedures in 2019 to 500 in 2022 and now 1,000. Its clinical capabilities were further demonstrated by the completion of 19 knee replacement surgeries in a single day, led by Dr. Madan Mohan Reddy, Dr. Vijay Kishore Kondreddy, Dr. Kunal Patel and the wider clinical team.

Dr. Jayapal (Anil) Reddy, Clinical Associate Professor, Section of Cardiology, California University of Science and Medicine, said, “Apollo Hospitals Aragonda is a powerful example of the ‘Heal in India’ vision, proving that world-class healthcare does not have to be limited by geography. It is now ready for the world. As a physician practising in the United States and a native of Aragonda, I take pride in seeing advanced surgery, critical care, emergency services and diagnostics available in my own village. Dr. Prathap C. Reddy’s vision has created not just a hospital, but an enduring healthcare legacy for generations.

About Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd.

In 1983, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy founded Apollo Hospitals in Chennai with a vision to strengthen India’s healthcare capabilities and bring advanced medical care closer to the people who need it. Since then, Apollo has expanded its presence across hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, diagnostic centres and telemedicine services. Its network includes over 10,400 beds across 76 hospitals, 7,113+ pharmacies, 308 clinics, 2,457 diagnostic centres and 800+ telemedicine centres. Apollo has performed over 300,000 angioplasties and 200,000 cardiac surgeries. The organisation continues to invest in research and innovation and in the adoption of advanced medical technologies and treatment options, with the aim of expanding access to specialised healthcare for patients across India and beyond.

About Apollo Foundation – Total Health

Established in Aragonda, Andhra Pradesh, in 2013, Total Health is Apollo Foundation’s integrated community development initiative. Working across health and hygiene, community engagement and alternative livelihoods, it addresses the physical, mental, social, ecological and economic factors that influence wellbeing. The programme aims to develop sustainable, scalable and accountable models that enable communities to become healthier, more resilient and self-reliant.

Bank of India and C-DAC sign MoU to Advance Quantum Financial Innovation and Emerging Technology Adoption

 (Shri Satyendra Singh , CGM IT & CIO, Bank of India signing MoU ) 

 Collaboration to focus on translating indigenous quantum technologies into 

practical banking applications

 Priority areas include quantum-safe security, digital signatures, quantumgenerated randomness and advanced optimization

 MoU also provides a framework for collaboration in Artificial Intelligence, 

Blockchain, cybersecurity and other emerging technologies

 Joint research, Proofs of Concept (PoCs), technology demonstrations and 

capacity building to support future-ready banking

 Partnership brings together Bank of India’s banking expertise and scale with CDAC’s capabilities in advanced computing and indigenous technology 

development

New Delhi, October 22, 2026: Bank of India (BOI) and the Centre for Development of 

Advanced Computing (C-DAC), an autonomous scientific society under the Ministry of 

Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, today signed a 

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on quantum financial innovation and 

the adoption of emerging technologies in banking.  

The MoU establishes a framework for Bank of India and C-DAC to explore joint research, 

development, pilot implementations, technology demonstrations and capacity-building 

initiatives across technologies of strategic relevance to the banking and financial services 

sector. 

The collaboration brings together Bank of India’s banking domain expertise, nationwide 

presence and high-volume technology environment with C-DAC’s capabilities in High 

Performance Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, Blockchain, 

Cybersecurity and indigenous technology development. 

A key focus of the partnership will be the development of a Quantum Ecosystem for 

Financial Innovation, aimed at preparing banking systems for the opportunities as well as 

emerging security challenges associated with quantum technologies. The two organizations 

will jointly explore quantum-inspired and quantum-safe technologies that can strengthen 

security, trust, resilience and decision-making in banking. 

The collaboration will seek to identify a prioritized portfolio of banking use cases, 

demonstrate Proofs of Concept in secure sandbox environments, assess technical feasibility 

and potential banking value, benchmark emerging approaches against existing systems, and 

develop roadmaps for further development, pilots or adoption. 

Commenting on the collaboration, Shri Rajiv Mishra, Executive Director, BOI, said, 

“Quantum technologies have the potential to reshape several aspects of banking, from 

cybersecurity to complex financial decision-making. Through our collaboration with C-DAC, 

we aim to explore and evaluate these emerging possibilities in a structured manner, while 

building the knowledge and capabilities required to prepare Bank of India for the next 

generation of technology” 

Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary IAS, MeitY, congratulated Bank of India for its contribution to 

technological advancement and appreciated its collaboration with C-DAC to foster 

indigenous innovation. He emphasised the need to build a quantum-resilient financial 

ecosystem in an era of growing cybersecurity concerns and emerging technological threats, 

preparing the banking sector for the challenges and opportunities of the quantum era. 

Commenting on the MoU, Shri E. Magesh, Director General, C-DAC, said, This collaboration 

with Bank of India is an important step towards translating India’s indigenous quantum and 

emerging technology capabilities into practical banking solutions. Through joint research 

and development and capacity building, C-DAC aims to support a secure, resilient and futureready financial ecosystem. 

Beyond quantum technologies, the MoU provides a framework for collaboration in 

Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies relevant to 

financial services. Potential areas include intelligent document processing, customer and 

employee assistance, fraud analysis, credit and financial analytics, secure AI platforms, responsible AI, smart contracts, digital identity, secure data sharing and other applications 

relevant to banking. 

The partnership will also focus on developing a future-ready talent ecosystem through 

training and capacity-building programmes in areas including Quantum Computing, 

Quantum Security, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain and other emerging digital technologies. 

The MoU was formally exchanged by Shri Aditya Kumar Sinha, Executive Director, C-DAC 

Mumbai and Shri Satyendra Singh , CGM IT & CIO, Bank of India , in the presence of Shri 

S. Krishnan, IAS, Secretary, MeitY; Shri Rajiv Mishra, Executive Director, Bank of India, 

Shri Sudeep Shrivastava, Joint Secretary, MeitY, Shri E. Magesh Director General C-DAC,

along with other senior officials from MeitY, Bank of India and C-DAC. 

Through the collaboration, Bank of India and C-DAC Mumbai aim to create a structured 

pathway for translating indigenous research and emerging technologies into practical 

banking applications, while contributing to a secure, resilient and technologically future-

ready financial ecosystem.

Aptech Limited and Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) Enter into Partnership to Democratise Access to Film and Creative Education Across India

~Strategic collaboration to offer workshops, certified programmes and a co-developed filmmaking programme, combining FTII’s cinematic expertise with Aptech’s industry-oriented skilling ecosystem~

National, October 26, 2026: Aptech Limited, a pioneer in vocational training and global learning solutions has entered into a collaboration with The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) to expand access to quality film education and creative skills across India.

The partnership brings together FTII’s academic excellence and rich cinematic legacy with Aptech’s 30+ years of experience in vocational education across Media & Entertainment, creative careers and the AVGC-XR ecosystem, backed by its expertise in curriculum development and established extensive training network. Together, the institutions will create structured, industry-relevant learning programs for aspiring filmmakers, content creators, animators, VFX professionals and other creative talent, enabling learners to build the skills, creative capabilities and practical exposure needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving Media & Entertainment and AVGC-XR sectors. The collaboration will offer learners access to FTII-led learning experiences through Aptech’s ecosystem, while creating learning opportunities that range from focused workshops and micro-credentials to specialised certification and an immersive, co-developed filmmaking programme.

The partnership will be executed through three distinct engagement models creating multiple routes to creative learning. 

1. FTII Workshops & Micro-Credentials

Under the first model, selected FTII workshops will be made accessible to eligible students at Aptech centres. The workshops will provide learners with opportunities to engage with specialised areas of filmmaking and cinematic storytelling, enabling them to complement their existing learning with focused, expert-led interventions from FTII. Eligible participants will receive applicable FTII certificates or micro-credentials, creating opportunities for learners to build specialised knowledge and demonstrate additional competencies.

2. Aptech–FTII Joint Certification Programme

The second model will integrate a two-month FTII module with Aptech’s training brands offering VFX and 3D programmes. The programme will combine existing structured, industry-oriented training with FTII’s academic and cinematic expertise, giving learners exposure to advanced filmmaking concepts and practices. Successful students will receive a joint certificate, subject to meeting the prescribed programme and certification requirements. The model is designed to strengthen the bridge between technical skills and cinematic application, enabling students to develop a more holistic understanding of visual storytelling.

3. Co-Curated Joint Certification Programme

The third and most comprehensive model will be a co-developed programme, including a two-month immersive learning experience at the FTII campus in Pune. Initially planned across Aptech’s own centres in Mumbai, Pune and Bengaluru, the programme will combine structured learning at Aptech’s training centres with intensive academic immersion and mentorship at FTII. A key outcome of the programme will be the opportunity for students to produce a short film under FTII mentorship, allowing them to translate classroom learning into an actual creative project. The programme will also facilitate exposure to internships and industry associations, helping students build practical capabilities and a stronger portfolio as they prepare for careers in the Media & Entertainment industry.

Mr. Sandip Weling, Whole-time Director & Chief Business Officer, Global Retail, Aptech Limited, said, “The future of creative education lies in bringing together strong academic foundations, industry-relevant skills and opportunities for experiential learning. Our collaboration with FTII brings together two complementary strengths- FTII’s unparalleled cinematic legacy and Aptech’s expertise in vocational education and nationwide delivery. Through these three models, we aim to give learners greater access to specialised knowledge, mentorship and real-world creative experiences, ultimately enabling them to build stronger capabilities, portfolios and career pathways in the Media & Entertainment and AVGC-XR ecosystem.”

Mr. Santosh Ojha, Head of Strategy, FTII, added, “FTII has a rich legacy of nurturing filmmakers and storytellers, and we believe this learning should reach many more aspiring creative professionals. Our collaboration with Aptech gives us the opportunity to take FTII’s academic and cinematic expertise beyond our campus, leveraging Aptech’s extensive network of creative education centres across India. Cinema is as much about storytelling, imagination and creative expression as it is about technical skills. Through this association, we hope to bring that perspective to more learners through specialized programmes, workshops and hands-on experiences, helping shape the next generation of filmmakers and creative professionals.”

Mr. Abir Aich, Executive Vice President, Aptech Limited, said, “One of the key objectives of this collaboration is to bring the art and practice of filmmaking closer to students pursuing careers in the creative industry. By combining Aptech’s technology and production-focused learning with FTII’s expertise in cinema and storytelling, we want to help students develop a more rounded understanding of how films and visual content are actually created. Importantly, this opportunity will be available to both new and existing students, giving them access to specialized learning, industry mentorship, and internship opportunities to work on projects. For the industry, we believe this can help build a ready pool of future creative talent, who bring together technical proficiency, cinematic understanding and practical filmmaking skills, and are better prepared to contribute from the outset.”

The partnership aims to move beyond conventional skill training towards applied, experiential and outcome-oriented creative education, equipping learners with the technical proficiency, storytelling capabilities, creative thinking and industry exposure needed to succeed in the evolving Media & Entertainment and AVGC-XR sectors. This may also lead to internship opportunities for the top talent. Through three progressive learning models from specialised workshops and micro-credentials to integrated certification and immersive filmmaking the collaboration seeks to expand access to quality creative education and build a future-ready talent pool for India’s growing creative economy.

ABOUT APTECH LIMITED

With over three decades of strong experience in the vocational skill training and non-formal academic curriculum-based training programs, Aptech Limited is a pioneer in the non–formal vocational training business in the country with a significant global presence. Ever since its commencement in 1986 and with a current presence of over 750 centres globally, Aptech Limited has effectively ventured into diverse sectors ranging from IT training, media & entertainment, virtual production, beauty & wellness, retail & aviation, pre-school segment, amongst others. Aptech Limited has successfully trained students, professionals, universities & corporates through its two main streams of business- Individual training and Enterprise Business Group. 

Under Individual Training, Aptech offers career and professional training through its multi-brands- Arena Animation & Maya Academy of Advanced Creativity (both in Animation & Multimedia), Lakmē Academy powered by Aptech (beauty & grooming), Aptech Aviation & Hospitality Academy, Aptech Learning, and Aptech International Pre-school, amongst others.

Enterprise business includes Training and Assessment Solutions for Corporates & Institutions (Aptech Training Solutions, Aptech Assessment & Testing Solutions). Aptech Limited has been recognized as a 

Great Place to Work (2017 & 2019) won the Golden Peacock National Training Award (2019) and appraised at Maturity Level 5 of People Capability Maturity Model (PCMM) in the year 2020. For further information please visit- https://www.aptech-worldwide.com/

About FTII: 

The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) was set up by the Government of India in 1960, in the premises of the erstwhile Prabhat Studios in Pune.

Today, FTII is recognised as a centre for excellence in audio visual media across the world and one of the best film institutes in India. FTII alumni work everywhere: from Los Angeles, Paris, and London to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Chennai, and Kolkata. Over the years they have gained popularity and have earned various laurels as accomplished technicians and superstars. The alumni have also won popular film and television awards from the ‘National Film Awards’ to ‘Oscars’, to the ‘Dada Saheb Phalke award’ to the prestigious ‘Padma Awards’.