New Mutual Fund Scheme Combines Equity, Arbitrage, and Debt for Balanced Growth and Lower Risk
A financial services company has launched a new mutual fund scheme combining equity, arbitrage, and debt instruments to offer investors balanced growth with lower volatility compared to pure equity funds. The fund aims to provide steady returns with reduced risk, suitable for cautious investors, first-time mutual fund buyers, retirees, and those seeking a temporary investment option. It features no lock-in period, allowing flexible withdrawals, and supports systematic investment plans for gradual wealth building. The fund's strategy cushions market downturns by balancing asset classes, making it an option for those wanting exposure to equity without high risk. Investors are advised to consider market risks and review scheme documents before investing.

Summit on Category III AIFs Highlights Growth, New Fund Structures, and Regulatory Clarity Needs
An industry association for alternative assets in India is hosting a summit focused on Category III Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), which have shown significant growth with a 65% CAGR and substantial capital commitments. The event will gather fund managers, policymakers, and investors to discuss regulatory developments, innovative strategies, and market trends shaping this asset class. Participants highlighted the emergence of new fund structures, including semi-liquid credit funds, and emphasized the importance of regulatory clarity on leverage and taxation to support further growth. The summit aims to foster dialogue among stakeholders to enhance the investment ecosystem and promote best practices, reflecting the increasing acceptance of Category III AIFs among domestic and global investors.

8th Annual Cybersecurity Conclave Focuses on AI Defense, Zero Trust, Quantum Readiness, and Data Protection Act Compliance
An organization specializing in cybersecurity leadership announced its 8th annual conclave to address the surge in cyberattacks and evolving regulatory requirements in India. The event will gather over 150 cybersecurity leaders, experts, and policymakers to focus on strategic topics including AI-driven threat defense, zero trust architectures, quantum computing preparedness, regulatory compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, and workforce development. The residential format promotes in-depth collaboration through simulations, peer sessions, and workshops aimed at enhancing crisis management, board-level communication, and compliance strategies. The conclave seeks to influence national cybersecurity policies and corporate security frameworks amid a rapidly expanding cybersecurity market and increasing digital risks.

Leading manufacturer showcases durable, energy-efficient uPVC and aluminium doors and windows at major architecture expo
A leading manufacturer of high-performance windows, doors, and interior solutions participated as the Diamond Sponsor at a major architecture and interior expo held in Chennai. The company showcased its uPVC windows and doors, aluminium systems, ABS and steel doors, and modular uPVC interiors through an interactive booth designed to simulate real living spaces. Their products emphasized durability, energy efficiency, security, and aesthetic appeal, targeting architects, builders, developers, and homeowners. The exhibition allowed direct engagement with industry professionals and reinforced the company's position as a trusted provider of innovative, quality building solutions in India.

Life Insurer and Small Finance Bank Partner to Boost Insurance Access via 2,500 Branches Nationwide
A life insurance company and a small finance bank have entered into a strategic corporate agency partnership to enhance the accessibility of comprehensive insurance products across multiple states and union territories in India. The bank will distribute the insurer's portfolio, including protection, savings, child, money back, and retirement plans, through its extensive network of over 2,500 branches. This collaboration aims to support the government's initiative to increase insurance penetration by 2047, focusing on rural and semi-urban markets. The partnership will leverage the bank's digital platforms to provide a simplified and transparent insurance experience, promoting financial inclusion and long-term financial security for underserved communities. Both institutions emphasize their commitment to delivering reliable, need-based insurance solutions and expanding outreach through combined expertise and infrastructure.

Opposition accuses government of hiding 2020 border losses, warns economic ties risk national security
The opposition party criticized the government for allegedly concealing the truth about territorial losses to a neighboring country following a 2020 border clash, accusing it of denying and distracting from the issue. The party claimed the government's policies led to the largest territorial setback since 1962 and accused it of normalizing relations with a hostile neighbor due to economic interests. The Supreme Court reprimanded the opposition leader for purported derogatory remarks about the military but stayed related court proceedings. Questions were raised about the government's statements denying territorial incursions, the effectiveness of withdrawal agreements, restricted military patrol access, and increasing trade dependence on the neighboring country despite security concerns. The opposition highlighted reports of significant territorial control lost and alleged military support from the neighboring country to a regional adversary, asserting the government prioritized economic ties over national security.

Underwater Vibration Sensor Uses Air-Water Waves to Help Voice-Disabled Communicate Hands-Free
Researchers at a technical institute, in collaboration with a US university, have developed an underwater vibration sensor designed to assist individuals with voice disabilities in communicating. The sensor detects subtle water surface waves caused by exhaled air, converting these vibrations into electrical signals that are interpreted through deep learning models for voice recognition without audible sound. This technology offers a contactless, automated alternative for users unable to produce conventional voice commands, enabling hands-free control of smart devices. The prototype, currently costing approximately Rs 3,000, is expected to become more affordable with industry collaboration. The research team plans to pursue clinical validation to facilitate real-world application of the device, which represents a novel approach to voice recognition by monitoring air-water interface disturbances generated by exhalation.

Government awards Rs 792 crore contract to upgrade PAN system as unified business ID under Section 139A
A government project to upgrade the permanent account number (PAN) system has been awarded to a technology consulting firm for over Rs 792 crore. The initiative, funded with Rs 1,435 crore by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, aims to establish PAN as a unified business identifier across government digital platforms. Scheduled to become operational within 18 months, the project seeks to streamline PAN and TAN processes, enhance service quality, accelerate delivery, and improve grievance mechanisms using advanced technology. It will manage PAN-related functions such as issuance, updates, Aadhaar linking, re-issuance, and online validation through a consolidated platform.

Companies must pay 0.1% stamp duty on share issuance under Article 19, Schedule I-A of Indian Stamp Act
The revenue department of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi has issued a directive mandating that all companies with registered offices in the NCT must pay stamp duty at a rate of 0.1% on the issuance of shares, as per Article 19 of Schedule I-A of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899. This duty applies to certificates or documents evidencing rights or titles to shares, whether in physical or digital form. The directive clarifies that the stamp duty rates under Schedule I do not apply within the NCT, reaffirming the state's authority under the Constitution to impose such duties. Companies are required to apply for adjudication of stamp duty within the prescribed timeframe, with non-compliance potentially resulting in penalties. This circular is issued for strict adherence by all concerned entities.

State Signs 41 MoUs Worth Rs 32,553 Crore to Boost Investment and Create 50,000 Jobs
A state government signed 41 memoranda of understanding totaling over Rs 32,553 crore at an investment conclave, aiming to attract significant investment and generate nearly 50,000 jobs. The agreements were formalized in the presence of top state officials. Additionally, four major projects with a combined investment of Rs 1,230 crore were inaugurated, expected to create approximately 3,100 jobs. These developments reflect the state's efforts to boost industrial growth and employment through substantial private sector commitments.

Major Business Event Showcases Integrated Software Solutions with 240+ Exhibitors and 20,000+ Attendees
An upcoming business event in India will showcase integrated software solutions across multiple sectors, featuring over 240 exhibitors and attracting more than 20,000 attendees. The event includes practical sessions on business management tools, live demonstrations of software deployments, and previews of new software features. It is designed for a wide range of participants including business owners, developers, consultants, and students. The event aims to facilitate direct interaction with software developers and industry leaders, promoting the adoption of efficient business systems. The event is scheduled for mid-August at a convention center in Gujarat and emphasizes practical business applications rather than being a traditional trade fair or conference.

Karnataka Forms Anti-Narcotic Task Force with 10 New Posts Under IT Act Section Powers
The Karnataka government has established an Anti-Narcotic Task Force (ANTF) to strengthen efforts against drug-related crimes, operating under the supervision of senior police officials and reporting to the Additional Director General of Police, Cyber Command. The unit includes 10 new posts and reallocates 56 personnel from the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF), supplemented by outsourced forensic, legal, and data analysis experts. Concurrently, 43 Cyber, Economic, and Narcotics police stations have been renamed as cyber crime police stations, now restricted to handling cybercrime cases under the IT Act, losing authority over narcotics and economic offenses. The ANTF's annual budget is approximately Rs 2.77 crore. The government has retained the ANF with reduced personnel, transferring some members to the ANTF and other units to address staffing needs. The task force will act on intelligence received and aims to eradicate narcotics issues statewide.

India's Tea Production Drops 9% in June Due to Weather and Pest Issues
Tea production in India decreased by 9 percent to 133.5 million kilograms in June compared to the previous year, according to official data. The decline was attributed to adverse weather and pest infestations. Production in North India fell to 112.51 million kilograms from 121.52 million kilograms, while South India's output dropped to 20.99 million kilograms from 25.20 million kilograms. Large-scale planters produced 55.21 million kilograms, down from 68.38 million kilograms, and small growers produced 68.28 million kilograms, a decrease from 78.34 million kilograms. The CTC variety accounted for 117.84 million kilograms, orthodox tea for 13.82 million kilograms, and green tea for 1.84 million kilograms.

Airline finds cockroaches on international flight, relocates passengers, cleans plane, and launches investigation under safety protocols
Passengers on an international flight reported the presence of small cockroaches onboard, prompting the airline to relocate affected passengers and conduct a deep cleaning during a scheduled stopover. The airline acknowledged the incident, attributing it to possible insect entry during ground operations despite regular fumigation, and announced a comprehensive investigation to identify the cause and prevent future occurrences. The airline issued an apology for the inconvenience caused.

Supreme Court upholds interim ban on political party using OTP messages citing privacy concerns under data protection rules
The Supreme Court declined to stay a Madras High Court interim injunction restraining a political party from using OTP verification messages in its enrolment campaign, citing concerns over data protection and privacy. The High Court had issued the injunction following a public interest litigation alleging unauthorized collection of personal and Aadhaar details. The Supreme Court emphasized the sensitivity of the issue and directed the party to approach the High Court for relief, noting the need to protect citizens' privacy rights. The party argued it was not collecting Aadhaar data and that the injunction was unwarranted, but the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal without interference.

Educational Institution Marks 25 Years with Inclusive Education Focus and Heritage Gallery Launch
An educational institution celebrated its 25th anniversary with a formal event featuring government officials, dignitaries, and community leaders. The ceremony included the release of commemorative items such as an anthem, flag, badge, postal cover, and a coffee table book, alongside a documentary highlighting the institution's development. Speeches emphasized the importance of inclusive education, skill development programs, and social outreach efforts. The event also featured a heritage walk showcasing the institution's historical milestones and contributions to higher education, followed by the inauguration of a heritage gallery. The institution's leadership expressed gratitude to attendees and reaffirmed its commitment to educational growth and equity.

Private University Ranks 7th Nationwide, 3rd in Practice-Integrated Multidisciplinary Education 2025
A private university in India has been ranked seventh among all state private universities and third among practice-integrated multi-disciplinary universities in a national ranking for 2025. The institution's academic model emphasizes experiential learning, research-led teaching, and industry collaboration, contributing to its rise in rankings. It offers diverse programs across business, technology, arts, architecture, law, and humanities, supported by extensive infrastructure and global partnerships. The rankings validate the university's focus on academic excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates for global environments. The university has also received recognition in various business school rankings and is noted for its strong industry connections and comprehensive educational approach.