NFRA and IICA Launch Certification Course for Audit Committee Members and Independent Directors to Boost Governance
The National Financial Reporting Authority and the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs launched a second four-month certification course for audit committee members and independent directors, following a Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2024. The program aims to enhance corporate governance by providing specialized knowledge and practical skills in financial statement analysis, risk management, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance. The course includes an optional module for non-finance professionals and a mandatory module covering internal controls, audits, fraud risk management, ESG, and sustainability reporting. This initiative supports NFRA's mandate to promote awareness of accounting and auditing standards and improve audit quality through education and training. The program reflects a commitment to transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability in corporate operations.

Seven Infrastructure Projects Approved to Boost Connectivity and Support Industries Under PM MITRA Scheme
The Network Planning Group reviewed seven infrastructure projects across railways, roads, logistics, and textiles for compliance with integrated multimodal connectivity and government coordination principles. Railway projects include additional lines in Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and between Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra to enhance freight and passenger capacity, benefiting industrial sectors and regional development. The road project involves widening a highway in Madhya Pradesh to improve freight movement for cement and coal industries. A Multi-Modal Logistics Park in Telangana is planned to increase cargo handling capacity and connectivity to major freight corridors. Two textile parks under the PM MITRA scheme in Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu aim to support the full textile value chain, boost employment, and enhance global competitiveness. The projects collectively seek to improve logistics efficiency, reduce travel times, and promote socio-economic growth in their respective regions.

Over 15 Million Pledges to End Rote Learning and Promote Critical Thinking in Schools Nationwide
A nationwide educational initiative led by a prominent learning systems company has secured over 15 million pledges to end the practice of rote learning in schools across India. The movement aims to align with national education policy goals by promoting deep conceptual understanding and critical thinking skills among students. It addresses longstanding concerns that rote memorization hampers student preparedness for modern careers, particularly in smaller towns and cities. The organization behind the campaign operates in thousands of schools and serves millions of students and teachers, emphasizing research-based curricula and technology to improve educational outcomes. The campaign invites broad participation from educators, policymakers, parents, and students to support a shift toward meaningful learning and skill development.

Private University Business School Appoints New Director to Lead MBA Program with Focus on Tech and Entrepreneurship
A private university's business school appointed a new director with extensive academic leadership experience, including prior directorship at a premier management institute. The appointee, an expert in organizational behavior and knowledge management, will oversee the flagship accredited MBA program featuring specializations in emerging business technologies and entrepreneurship. The university highlighted the director's proven track record in academic and industry collaborations, emphasizing her role in advancing the institution's mission to blend academic rigor with practical relevance. The appointment aims to strengthen the school's position in developing global business leaders equipped to address rapid technological and market changes.

Deemed University Hosts 2025 Freshers' Ceremony Emphasizing Skills, Discipline, and Holistic Education
A deemed university in Chennai held its 2025 Freshers' Inauguration Ceremony attended by over 12,000 students and parents. The event featured a keynote address by a prominent media personality who emphasized accountability, adaptability, and communication skills for student success. University leadership highlighted the importance of utilizing advanced facilities, balancing academics with extracurricular activities, and maintaining discipline. They also stressed holistic education, industry-relevant programs, career training, and parental involvement in student development. The institution offers over 100 recognized programs across various disciplines and holds multiple accreditations, including NAAC A++ and NBA, with strong placement records and national rankings. The ceremony concluded with a community lunch, reinforcing the university's commitment to fostering a supportive academic environment.

Tech Firm Reports Q1 Loss Amid EV Market Growth, Plans New Plant Launch by October 2025
A technology company specializing in electric vehicle charging and critical power solutions reported a consolidated revenue of INR 205.3 crore and an EBITDA margin of -18.8% for Q1 FY26, with an adjusted loss after tax of INR 71.1 crore, while its standalone adjusted profit after tax was INR 1.1 crore. Despite a subdued quarter, the company holds a robust order book exceeding INR 1,500 crore entering Q2. The company highlighted growth in the electric vehicle market, expansion in Southeast Asia, and progress in strategic investments, including a global subsidiary focused on EV chargers. Delays in critical power projects impacted revenue, but key projects have now commenced. The company anticipates improved performance from Q2 onwards, supported by industry tailwinds, new product launches, and operational momentum, with plans to commence operations at a new manufacturing plant by October 2025.

Global Firm Commits to Creating One Million Impact-Sourcing Jobs by 2030 for Inclusive Hiring
A global customer experience solutions provider has joined a multinational initiative aimed at creating one million impact-sourcing jobs by 2030 to promote inclusive hiring for marginalized communities. As part of this commitment, the company pledges to expand employment and upskilling efforts for underrepresented groups, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and underserved populations across regions such as India, Africa, and Latin America. The initiative involves collaboration with over 50 organizations worldwide to scale inclusive employment practices. The company integrates impact sourcing into its talent strategy, combining human empathy with digital innovation to enhance customer experience outcomes while fostering economic opportunities and long-term career development for disadvantaged individuals.

AI Matchmaking Platform Sets 50 Lakh Salary Rule for Private Men, Exempts Class 1 Government Officers
An AI-powered matchmaking platform implemented a policy requiring private-sector male users to have an annual salary of at least 50 lakh, while exempting Class 1 government officers such as IAS, IPS, and IRS from this salary threshold. The platform justified this exception by emphasizing the stability, respect, and leadership associated with these government roles, despite their typically lower salaries compared to private-sector benchmarks. This policy adjustment has sparked debate over alleged preferential treatment for public sector employees versus recognition of their societal value. The platform maintains the salary criterion for private-sector men but acknowledges government officers' unique career attributes as meeting the platform's standards for matchmaking eligibility.

Kraft Paper Company Reports Rs 21.17 Crore Sales, Profits; Secures Pollution Board Approval Till 2029
A kraft paper manufacturing company reported Rs 21.17 crore in sales and an operating profit of Rs 1.5 crore for the June quarter. The company secured approval from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to operate its paper mill until March 31, 2029. Its wholly owned subsidiary operates a large facility in Nasik. The company emphasized investments in environmentally sustainable practices, including refuse-derived fuel usage, zero liquid discharge, and waste resource recovery, aiming to enhance cost competitiveness and reduce environmental impact.

US National Debt Hits $37 Trillion, Surpassing Projections Years Ahead Due to Pandemic Spending
The national debt of the United States has reached a record $37 trillion, surpassing previous projections by several years. Initial forecasts by the Congressional Budget Office in early 2020 anticipated this milestone would not be reached until after fiscal year 2030. However, accelerated borrowing by successive administrations in response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic caused the debt to increase more rapidly than expected.

Special Home Loan Rates from 7.35% with Quick Approval and Flexible Terms for Eligible Borrowers
A non-banking financial company is offering special home loan interest rates starting at 7.35% per annum for new borrowers during a limited Independence Day promotion. Eligible applicants, including salaried and self-employed Indian citizens aged 23 to 67 or 70 years respectively, with a good credit score, can avail loans up to Rs. 15 crore with tenures up to 32 years. The lender guarantees quick loan approval and disbursal within 48 hours post-document verification through a fully digital process. Additional benefits include zero prepayment charges on floating rates, home loan balance transfers with top-up loans up to Rs. 1 crore, personalized repayment options, and transparent benchmark-linked interest rates. The application process requires standard KYC, income, and property documents, with online tools available for eligibility and EMI calculations. Terms and conditions apply.

New Food Delivery Platform Boosts Restaurant Profits with Flat Subscription Fee Model, Keeping Control and Data
A new food delivery platform has gained traction among restaurants in India by offering an alternative to traditional commission-based models dominated by major aggregators. This platform operates on a flat subscription fee instead of per-order commissions, allowing restaurants to retain pricing control, branding, and customer data while receiving logistics and technology support. The model aims to enhance restaurant profitability and autonomy, addressing longstanding concerns about unfair commission structures. Since its launch, it has rapidly expanded across multiple cities, attracting thousands of restaurants seeking sustainable growth and better margins. This shift reflects a broader industry trend toward more equitable partnerships between delivery services and restaurants, potentially signaling a significant realignment in the food delivery sector.

Wall Street futures rise on hopes Fed will cut rates after US inflation data, S&P 500 hits record highs
Wall Street futures rose ahead of opening, driven by optimism that recent US inflation data will prompt the Federal Reserve to reduce interest rates next month. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed at record highs amid hopes that lower borrowing costs will stimulate economic growth. The Federal Reserve remains cautious due to concerns over tariffs potentially fueling inflation. Ahead of the September meeting, further inflation and employment reports are awaited. In corporate developments, a major apparel company agreed to acquire another for $2.2 billion, impacting share prices. Separately, a restaurant chain's shares dropped significantly after reporting weaker sales and lowering guidance. Asian and European markets also showed gains, influenced by trade policies and central bank actions, including a rate cut by the Bank of Thailand. Energy prices declined slightly, and currency fluctuations were noted with the US dollar weakening against the yen and euro.

Global BPS Provider Named Star Performer in 2025 Financial Crime and Compliance Assessment
A global business process services provider was recognized as a Star Performer and Major Contender in a 2025 assessment of Financial Crime and Compliance operations by an independent research firm. The provider demonstrated significant year-on-year improvement through innovation, AI-powered delivery models, and expanded service scope from fraud specialization to comprehensive compliance operations. Investments in modular AI tools and a specialized training academy enhanced alert handling, quality assurance, and investigation workflows. The firm's geographically distributed delivery model balances operational scale with technology adoption, supporting clients across multiple regions while maintaining regulatory alignment. This recognition reflects the provider's strategic focus on agile, future-ready compliance solutions leveraging advanced AI to improve detection, investigation, and response to financial crime.

Vietnamese EV Maker Launches First Indian Plant, Plans 50,000 Vehicles Annually with Local Production Focus
A Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer has inaugurated its first Indian production facility in Tamil Nadu, aiming to produce 50,000 vehicles annually with potential to triple capacity. The company has launched premium electric SUV models and initiated pre-bookings, employing a phased market entry strategy involving public displays and showroom openings across multiple cities. The manufacturer emphasizes local production to reduce costs and comply with domestic regulations, while establishing a comprehensive ecosystem including charging infrastructure, maintenance services, and battery recycling. This approach targets India's growing urban population, government incentives, and rising demand for electric vehicles. The facility also serves as an export hub for neighboring regions. The company's strategy mirrors its successful expansions in Southeast Asia, focusing on building brand recognition, customer support, and after-sales care to foster long-term market presence in emerging economies.

Major Spirits Company and Celeb Launch Luxury Tequila Brand Targeting Premium Market Growth and Authenticity
A major spirits company, a renowned global celebrity, a luxury collective, and a prominent entrepreneur have formed a joint venture to launch a new premium spirits brand focused on high-quality, culturally resonant, bottled-in-origin products. The partnership combines the established company's expertise in blending, marketing, and distribution with the creative and entrepreneurial strengths of the other parties. The venture aims to expand the premium spirits market domestically and internationally, beginning with the launch of a luxury tequila. This strategic collaboration represents a long-term investment designed to innovate and scale within the luxury spirits sector, targeting a new generation of discerning consumers who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and lifestyle-oriented branding.

Global Auto Tech Company Reports 7% Revenue Growth, $1.5B in New Bookings, and Advanced EV Technologies
A global automotive technology company reported a 7% revenue increase to $2.2 billion in the first half of 2025, driven by growth with domestic original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in China and strategic global expansion. The company secured $1.5 billion in new program bookings, with a significant portion linked to electric vehicle platforms and new or conquest business. It launched multiple advanced technologies, including software for chassis control, electro-mechanical braking systems, and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its product portfolio. Operational improvements led to a 16.8% rise in adjusted EBITDA and positive free cash flow. The company expanded its manufacturing footprint with new facilities in China and modernization efforts in the United States, aiming to support increasing customer demand and improve efficiency. Forward-looking statements in the announcement caution that actual results may differ due to inherent risks and uncertainties.

Industry Association Launches Major Performance Marketing Conference Covering Affiliate, E-Commerce, AI Personalization
An industry association is organizing a major performance marketing conference to be held in New Delhi, expanding its scope to include various sub-sectors such as affiliate marketing, e-commerce, programmatic advertising, and AI-driven personalization. The event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering strategic partnerships and technology adoption within the marketing ecosystem. It will also launch a publication focused on direct-to-consumer marketing success through affiliate strategies. The conference is supported by multiple industry partners and aims to facilitate collaboration among brands, advertisers, publishers, creators, and technology platforms. The organizing body is a not-for-profit entity representing over 600 members and advocates for fair competition and enabling laws in the digital economy.