Friday, May 16, 2025

Belrise Industries Limited’s Initial Public Offering to open on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, price band set at ₹85/- to ₹90/- per Equity Share



RHP Link: https://www.axiscapital.co.in/contents/Belrise%20Industries%20Limited-RHP-1747325577.pdf


 
Mumbai, May 16, 2025: Belrise Industries Limited, an automotive component manufacturing company, has fixed the price band of ₹85/- to ₹90/- per Equity Share of face value ₹5/- each for its maiden initial public offer.
 
The Initial Public Offering (“IPO” or “Offer”) of the Company will open on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, for subscription and close on Friday, May 23, 2025. Investors can bid for a minimum of 166 Equity Shares and in multiples of 166 Equity Shares thereafter.
 
The IPO is entirely a fresh issue of up to Rs 2,150 crore with no offer for sale component.
 
The proceeds from its fresh issuance, to extent of Rs 1,618.13 crore, will be utilized for repayment / prepayment, in full or in part, of certain borrowings availed by the Company; and general corporate purposes.
 
Belrise Industries Ltd offers a diverse range of safety critical systems and other engineering solutions for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, commercial vehicles and agri-vehicles. Its product portfolio includes metal chassis systems, polymer components, suspension systems, body-in-white components and exhaust systems, among others. The products are largely agnostic to vehicle powertrain types, reflecting its ability in catering to both electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, thus positioning it favorably to adapt to the growing electric vehicle market.
 
The company’s automotive product portfolio comprises over 1,000 distinct products across chassis systems, exhaust systems, body-in-white parts, polymer components, battery containers, suspensions and steering columns, among others.
 
Belrise has a long-standing relationship with customers, including prominent multinational OEMs such as Bajaj Auto Limited, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Private Limited, Hero MotoCorp Limited, Jaguar Land Rover Limited and Royal Enfield Motors Limited, among others
 
As of December 31, 2024, the company markets its products both domestically and internationally, with operations extending to several key global markets including Austria, Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Japan and Thailand and has a diversified customer base of 29 OEMs.
 
Belrise acquired H-One India Private Limited (“H-One”), the erstwhile subsidiary of H-One Company Limited, a listed entity in Japan, in March 2025 and consequently, as of March 31, 2025, it operates 17 manufacturing facilities across 10 cities in nine states in India.
 
Belrise Industries’ revenue from operations increased by 13.70% to ₹7,484.24 crore for the
Financial Year 2024 from ₹6,582.50 crore for the Financial Year 2023, primarily attributable to an increase in sales of products and an increase in the prices of raw materials and components. Profit after tax for fiscal 2024 stood at Rs 310.88 crore.
 
For the nine months ended December 31, 2024, revenue from operations stood at Rs 6,013.43 crore, and profit after tax stood at Rs 245.47 crore.
 
Axis Capital Limited, HSBC Securities and Capital Markets (India) Private Limited, Jefferies India Private Limited and SBI Capital Markets Limited are the book-running lead managers, and MUFG Intime India Private Limited is the registrar of the issue.
 
The Offer is being made through the book-building process, wherein not more than 50% of the net offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to qualified institutional buyers, not less than 15% of the offer shall be available for allocation to non-institutional bidders, and not less than 35% of the offer shall be available for allocation to retail individual bidders.
 
 
Notes for Reference:
Issue Size of the IPO based on the upper and lower end of the price band
 
Fresh Issue
Lower Band (@ Rs 85)
Rs 2,150 crore
Upper Band (@ Rs 90)
Rs 2,150 crore



Borana Weaves Limited IPO Opens on Tuesday, May 20, 2025

 

Left to Right1. CS Nevil Savjani2. Mr Rajkumar Borana3. CA Viral Vora

Fresh Issue Size - Up to 67,08,000 Equity Shares of ₹ 10 each

Issue Size - ₹ 144.89 Crore (At Upper Band)

Price Band - ₹ 205 - ₹ 216 Per Share

Lot Size - 69 Equity Shares

Mumbai, May 16, 2025 – Borana Weaves Limited, (“Borana”, The Company) specializing in the production of unbleached synthetic grey fabric, proposes to open its Initial Public Offering on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 whereas, the anchor bidding will open on Monday, May 19, 2025 and the bid/ issue will close on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The Company aims to raise ₹ 144.89 Crore and list its Equity Shares on the main board platforms of BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

The issue size is up to 67,08,000 Equity Shares with a price band of ₹ 205 - ₹ 216 per Equity Share and face value of ₹ 10 each.

Equity Share Allocation


Qualified Institutional Buyer - Not less than 75% of the Issue

Non-Institutional Investors - Not more than 15% of the Issue

Retail Individual Investors - Not more than 10% of the Issue

The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilized to finance the cost of establishing a new manufacturing unit to expand its production capabilities to produce grey fabric at Surat, Gujarat, India (“Proposed Unit 4”), funding incremental working capital requirements, and for general corporate purposes. 

The Company has appointed Beeline Capital Advisors Private Limited as the Book Running Lead Managers to the Issue and KFIN Technologies Limited as the Registrar to the Issue.

Mr. Mangilal Ambalal Borana, Chairman and Managing Director of Borana Weaves Limited expressed, "The launch of our Initial Public Offering marks a significant milestone for Borana Weaves Limited. Over the past few years, we have grown our manufacturing capabilities in the synthetic textile segment. The proceeds from the IPO will support the expansion of our production infrastructure and help us address our working capital needs. This step aligns with our long-term strategy of scaling operations while maintaining focus on product quality and operational efficiency. We look forward to continuing our growth journey with greater capacity and enhanced operational resilience."

About Borana Weaves Limited

Borana Weaves Limited (The Company, Borana) is a textile manufacturer headquartered in Surat specializing in the production of unbleached synthetic grey fabric. This fabric serves as a fundamental material for further processing, such as dyeing and printing, in various industries, including fashion, traditional textiles, technical textiles, home décor, and interior design. The versatility of grey fabric allows it to complement a wide range of unbleached fabrics across different styles, making it a valuable resource in the textile supply chain. 

Since commencing operations in 2021, the company has expanded to three manufacturing units in Surat, equipped with 15 texturizing machines, 6 warping machines, 700 water jet looms, and 10 folding machines.

With the global end-use market for man-made fibers expected to expand by 3.7% by 2025, the Indian synthetic textile industry is well-positioned to benefit, with growth opportunities in both domestic consumption and exports (Source: D&B Report). Our majority customer base (comprising of wholesalers) in Gujarat has contributed to our growth. With our office, manufacturing units, and operational activities also based in this state, we have endeavoured to foster strong connections with our customers. Our direct presence in the region has helped us deliver products to our customers.

In FY24, the Company achieved a revenue of ₹ 19,905.56 lakhs, EBITDA of ₹ 4,117.31 lakhs, & PAT of ₹ 2,358.64 lakhs.

As of December 31, 2024, the Company achieved a revenue of ₹ 21,161.52 lakhs, EBITDA of ₹ 4,603.16 lakhs, & PAT of ₹ 2,930.63 lakhs


Disclaimer


Certain statements in this document that are not historical facts are forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties like government actions, local, political or economic developments, technological risks, and many other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statements. The Company will not be in any way responsible for any action taken based on such statements and undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

This press release includes certain external industry data and projections that have been obtained from industry publications, surveys and forecasts. Accordingly, the Company and the BRLM to the Issue and their respective affiliates, advisers and representatives make no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of that data, and this data involves risks and uncertainties and is subject to change based on various factors. No representation or claim is made that the results contained in this press release will actually be achieved. All industry data contained in this press release involve significant elements of subjective judgment and analysis, which may or may not be correct. 

The information contained in this press release is not to be taken as any recommendation made by the Company or by any other person to enter into any agreement with regard to any investment. You will be solely responsible for your own assessment of the market and the market position of the Company, and you will conduct your own analysis and be solely responsible for forming your own view of the potential future performance of the business of the Company. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect information contained in this press release, which neither the Company, nor its affiliates, advisors or representatives are under an obligation to confirm. 

The Company is proposing to make an initial public issue of its equity shares and has filed the draft red herring prospectus dated November 16, 2024 (“DRHP”) and red herring prospectus dated May 14, 2015 (“RHP”) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”). The DRHP and RHP is available on the website of SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in, on the websites of the Stock Exchanges, i.e., BSE at www.bseindia.com, and NSE at www.nseindia.com, where the equity shares are proposed to be listed, the website of the BRLM, i.e., Beeline Capital Advisors Private Limited.

The equity shares offered in the Issue have neither been recommended, nor approved by

the SEBI, nor does SEBI guarantee the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of the RHP. Specific attention of the readers is invited to “Risk Factors” on page 40 of the RHP.

This press release contains information from the report titled “Synthetic Readymade Garments and Synthetic Grey Fabric”, dated April 14, 2024, which has been prepared by Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India Private Limited, and has been commissioned and paid for by the Company for the purposes of the Issue.

The BRLM, directly and/or through its affiliates, is acting for the Company and not the recipient of this press release and the receipt of this press release by any recipient is not to be taken as the giving of investment advice by the BRLM or its respective affiliates to that recipient, nor to constitute such person a customer or client of the BRLM or its respective affiliates. 


Thursday, May 15, 2025

ABD Delivers Highest Ever EBITDA and PAT in Full Year FY25

 -EBITDA at ₹ 451 crore up 81.7% and PAT at ₹ 195 crore vs ₹ 2 crore in FY24

-Board Recommends a Dividend of 180% which is ₹ 3.6 per Equity share  

 

Mumbai, 16th May 2025: Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD), the largest domestic spirits company by volume in India, has announced its audited financial results for the fiscal year 2025.

 A Snapshot of Consolidated Financial Results:  

   Performance Highlights of the Year:

·       Income from Operations at ₹ 3,541 crore higher by 6.2% vs ₹ 3,334 crore in FY24

·       Highest ever annual EBITDA at ₹ 451 crore higher by 81.7% vs ₹ 248 crore in FY24

·       Highest ever annual PAT at ₹ 195 crore vs ₹ 2 crore in FY24

  •  

Performance Highlights of the Quarter Q4FY25

·       Post IPO in July-24, 3rd consecutive quarter of strong profitable performance

·       Income from Operations at ₹ 935 crore, up 21.4% vs ₹  770 crore in Q4FY24

·       Highest ever quarterly EBITDA of ₹ 150 crore, up 141.5% vs ₹ 62 crore in Q4FY24

·       Highest ever quarterly PAT at ₹ 79 crore vs loss of ₹ 2 crore in Q4FY24

 Commenting on the results, Alok Gupta, Managing Director of Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited, stated, "We are pleased to report third consecutive quarter of robust performance following our IPO. The consistent positive outcome of our four point transformation agenda – premiumisation, supply chain security, margin enhancement, and enhance governance framework – is demonstrated in these results, validating both our strategic direction and its effective execution. With this solid foundation, we are confident in sustaining our profitable growth as we continue to focus on delivering enhanced and innovative offerings to our valued consumers."

 Board Recommends Dividend Payout

The Board of Directors has recommended a  final Dividend of 180% which is   3.6 per Equity share of ₹ 2/share each (fully paid-up) for the Financial Year FY25 for the approval of the Shareholders at the ensuing Annual General Meeting of the Company.

Performance Review for Q4FY25:

In our stated future ready transformation journey, significant progress made across all the four pillars of prestige & above portfolio built-up, margin accretive backward integration capex programs, margin enhancement initiatives and cultural & governance framework

1.      Prestige & Above Portfolio Built-up

·       Strong Volume Growth: Overall, we delivered 8.5 mn cases in Q4FY25, a strong growth of 20.8% vs 7.1 mn cases in Q4FY24 across mass premium and Prestige & above categories driven by high consumer demand

·       Accelerated premiumization of the portfolio: 

o   Continued increase in Prestige & Above (P&A) volume salience to 42.4% in Q4FY25 vs 42.0% in Q3FY25 and 38.6% in Q4FY24. The P&A value salience at 51.6% in Q4FY25 vs 52.1% in Q3FY25 and 47.3% in Q4FY24.

o   ICONiQ White: Achieving Unprecedented Growth

The world’s fastest-growing spirits brand of 2023, ICONiQ White, surpassed the 5 mn cases milestone in Mar-25 and achieved 5.7 mn cases in FY25, a growth of 151% from 2.3 mn cases in FY24. This accomplishment highlights the brand's growing popularity and strong market presence in 24 states and union territories.

·       ABD Maestro Pvt Ltd, a strategic business venture in collaboration with Bollywood icon Ranveer Singh, aimed at redefining India’s super-premium and luxury spirits markets has started its operations from April 2025

·       Continued Expansion of the Super-Premium to Luxury Portfolio:

o   Continued expansion of Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

     In November 2024, ABD ventured into the luxury spirits market with the introduction of Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky. Launched in Maharashtra, currently it is also available in key markets of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Goa, West Bengal and Karnataka.

o   Zoya: Continued expansion through 2 flavours

With launch of two new flavors - Watermelon Gin and Espresso Coffee Gin in Maharashtra in January 2025 in Maharashtra. Zoya is now available in overall 8 states and union territories

o   Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky Acquisition Complete 

Completed acquisition of the Woodburns and other brands in January 2025 and currently available in 7 states and union territories

2.      Margin Accretive Backward Integration Capex Program on track:

o   The recently acquired ENA distillery in Maharashtra is fully operational & running at 100% capacity utilization and expansion program is on track.

o   The construction of PET bottling unit and Malt facility in Telangana is progressing as per plan and is expected to be operational by Q3FY26 and Q4FY26 respectively.     

3.      3rd Consecutive Quarter of Margin Enhancement:

EBITDA at ₹ 150 crore grew by 25.1% as compared to ₹ 120 crore in Q3FY25 and grew by 141.5% as compared to ₹ 62 crore in Q4FY24. The EBITDA % in Q4FY25 is 16.1% which is 378 bps higher as compared to 12.3% in Q3FY25 and 799 bps higher as compared to 8.1% in Q4FY24. The strong performance in EBITDA was driven by continued strong focus on profitable state brand mix and cost optimization initiatives.

Profit After Tax (PAT) reported at ₹ 79 crore as compared to net loss of ₹ 2 crore in Q4FY24. The robust performance in PAT was led by strong EBITDA growth and interest cost savings

4.      Continued Focus on Enhancing Governance Framework:

ABD has partnered with CRISIL Ltd. to further enhance the governance framework and embed sustainability across its business. The partnership reflects ABD’s focus on building a future-ready organization driven by transparency, accountability, and long-term value. As part of the engagement, CRISIL is carrying out its Governance and Value Creation (GVC) assessment, which reviews areas such as governance practices and evaluate sustainable & inclusive value creation aspects. The goal is to strengthen ABD’s governance model in line with global best practices.

India UK FTA Agreement

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement is a truly significant milestone for the Indian spirits industry, opening up exciting new avenues for collaboration and growth for the sector as a whole and whisky category in particular. ABD is one of the largest importers of bulk scotch in India to benefit as lower import duty expected to be largely margin accretive.

In addition, this agreement will also benefit ABD’s Super-Premium to Luxury portfolio by making these products more accessible. We anticipate this will offer Indian consumers greater choice and the opportunity to enjoy a wider range of high-quality spirits.

Broadening Horizons: Expanding Exports Markets

During the current year, ABD has expanded the exports markets to 23 countries from 14 countries in FY24, with increasing presence in the high growth markets of Africa and now in USA. The latest millionaire brand in our portfolio – ICONiQ White has already been launched in 5 countries and our 1st luxury product Zoya gin is to be launched in UAE in Q1FY26. Also, ABD has secured approvals for exporting its products to Canada and European Union (EU) market

Key Awards and Recognitions

1.      INDSPIRIT Awards 2025: ABD achieved exceptional recognition, securing an unprecedented five awards including the coveted Company of the Year, reinforcing its position to be elite innovators in the Indian spirits industry. The premium flagship Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky secured an impressive triple win with New Product of the YearBest Blended Scotch for its masterful liquid complexity, and Best Packaging and digital integration for its striking visual and storytelling. To top it Zoya Special Batch Premium Gin - Watermelon was honoured with the Best Flavoured Gin, demonstrating the company's exceptional versatility across the product spectrum.

2.      2025 Icons of Spirits Awards: ABD has been rated to be highly commended as ‘Distiller of the Year' at the 2025 Icons of Whisky India, and Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky has been named 'Winner - Editors Pick India' at the 2025 Icons of Spirits Awards.

  1.  

About Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (www.abdindia.com)

Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD) is the largest domestic Spirits company in India, in terms of annual sales volumes. ABD has a presence in five main flavors, i.e., whisky, brandy, rum, vodka, and gin, with ‘millionaire’ brands like Officer’s Choice Whisky, Officer’s Choice Blue Whisky, Sterling Reserve Premium Whiskies and ICONiQ White Whisky. Currently, its manufacturing network comprises 36 units, of which 9 are owned bottling units, 2 owned distilleries, and 25 non-owned manufacturing units.


3rd edition of Trans Employment Mela on June 18 2025 in Delhi aims for 100 jobs for transgender & non-binary candidates

 


TWEET Foundation, InHarmony, and MoSJE further the cause of inclusive employment and dignity

Mumbai, May 15, 2025: Building on the momentum of its past editions, the Trans Employment Mela is back for its third edition on June 18, 2025, in New Delhi. Organised by the TWEET Foundation and InHarmony, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), the event continues to push forward a national dialogue on inclusive employment and economic justice for transgender and non-binary individuals.

In 2024, the Mela drew 227 participants and facilitated over 77 placements across more than 20 companies, nearly doubling the placement numbers from its 2023 debut. This year, the organisers are setting a bold target of 100 placements, backed by strategic industry engagement and a growing movement to create inclusive workplaces.

More than a job fair, the Trans Employment Mela is a rallying point for change—bringing together public and private sector employers, sensitisation experts, and community leaders to break down barriers and build pathways for sustainable livelihoods.

Abhina Aher, Founder, TWEET Foundation, emphasized, “The Mela is not just about getting a job—it’s about claiming a rightful place in the economic fabric of our country. For too long, transgender persons have been excluded from formal employment, forced into the margins despite their skills, potential, and resilience. The Trans Employment Mela is a statement that we will no longer be sidelined. We need many more such platforms that offer not only visibility but dignity, access, and equity.”

Anupama Easwaran, Founder, InHarmony, said, “Workplace inclusion begins with opening doors—and that’s exactly what the Trans Employment Mela does. It bridges the gap between talent that’s often overlooked and opportunities that can be transformative. This isn’t just about ticking a diversity box—it’s about building cultures where everyone is valued, where bias is actively dismantled, and where transgender and non-binary individuals can thrive as their authentic selves. We look forward to deeper and more meaningful engagement from industry leaders this year.”

Maya Awasthy, Co-Founder, TWEET Foundation, shared, “Every edition of the Mela is a powerful reminder that inclusion is not just an aspiration—it’s an actionable goal. From 58 placements in 2023 to 77 last year, we’ve seen firsthand how access to dignified employment transforms lives. Our goal for 2025 is ambitious but necessary: 100 placements, 100 individuals finding not just jobs, but a renewed sense of purpose, independence, and belonging. We urge companies to step forward—not just to hire, but to learn, unlearn, and lead by example in building a truly equitable workforce.”

The announcement of the 3rd edition of the Trans Employment Mela was made during the annual celebrations of the TWEET Foundation, where over 300 representatives from the transgender community were present, including celebrities, allies, and dignitaries. The vibrant gathering served as a powerful reminder of the strength, unity, and resilience of the community, while also reinforcing the importance of inclusive platforms like the Mela in driving real social change.

This year’s edition will feature job interviews, networking sessions, corporate sensitisation workshops, panel discussions, and performances by community artists. It will also be a platform for unveiling new partnerships, tools, and frameworks that support trans-led advocacy and promote inclusive hiring across sectors.

The Mela also celebrates the growing presence of transgender entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and building businesses across industries. Their success stories not only redefine representation but also serve as powerful testimonies to the resilience, creativity, and leadership within the transgender community.

Publicis Sapient returns as the Platinum Sponsor for this year, while P&G and Hexaware join as Gold Sponsors for this edition.


ABOUT ORGANIZERS

TWEET Foundation (www.tweetindia.org) is an NGO based out of Delhi and Mumbai led by trans persons dedicated to providing the community with crisis support, short shelter stay, health and legal resources, and connecting them with skill building and inclusive employment opportunities. TWEET works closely with key stakeholders for mainstreaming advocacy for the rights of transgender persons. It works with the government to bring in policy-level changes and works with civil societies and the corporate sectors to build strategic partnerships to support the trans movement and welfare.


InHarmony (www.inharmony.in) is a pioneering Diversity, Equity & Inclusion advisory firm dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces across India. Specializing in consultancy services, training solutions, employee wellbeing programs, research, and diversity hiring support, their impact spans various industries, guiding companies in the cultivation of inclusive & equitable spaces. InHarmony's expertise encompasses gender, LGBTQIA+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and less privileged caste categories, catering to diverse age groups. It boasts a distinguished panel of experts including facilitators, coaches, psychologists, psychiatrists, and trainers, all committed to delivering bespoke, innovative solutions tailored to meet each client's unique needs. InHarmony’s founder, Anupama Easwaran is a board member of TWEET Foundation working extensively with the transgender community since the past 8 years. She is the recipient of the APCOM Hero Award 2023 in the Community Ally category and a 2 time TEDx speaker. At InHarmony, their mission is to drive positive cultural change, making workplaces places where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.



Social media handles for more information:     

In Harmony:     

In.harmony LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-harmony/

In.harmony Website - www.in.harmony.in

In.harmony Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/in.harmony1

In.harmony Insta -      https://instagram.com/in.harmonyworld?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

TWEET India

For TWEET Insta - https://instagram.com/TWEET_foundation?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

For TWEET linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/TWEETfoundation/

Bharat Pavilion Inaugurated at 78th Cannes Film Festival: A Celebration of Cinema, Culture, and Diplomacy

CANNES, 15 May 2025: In a vibrant and inspiring ceremony, the Bharat Pavilion was officially inaugurated yesterday at the ‘78th Cannes Film Festival’, marking yet another significant step in India’s growing global cinematic footprint.

 

The inaugural event was attended by dignitaries including Shekhar Kapur, acclaimed filmmaker and Festival Director of IFFI and NFDC; veteran actor Anupam Kher; and Anne-Louise Mésadieu, Paris Region elected official, Ambassador, and Special Delegate for Diplomatic Relations. Their presence underscored the deepening ties between Indian cinema and global audiences.

While addressing the gathering, Anne-Louise Mésadieu welcomed ‘Bharat Pavilion’ to Cannes, expressing admiration for India's rich cinematic history and its ability to tell stories that transcend borders. She emphasized the importance of such cultural bridges in fostering global understanding and diplomacy and said that French government is available to ease and facilitate co-productions with India.

 

Shekhar Kapur highlighted the transformational power of cinema and India's evolving role as a creative powerhouse on the world stage.

 

The inaugural ceremony featured the much-anticipated launch of the ‘IFFI 2025 Poster and Trailer’. “IFFI’s new poster is a reflection of ‘convergence of creativity and technology’. India is ready to embrace technology and play a dominant role in the Global content creation space”, said Gautam Bhanot, GM, Film Promotion (Festivals, Market and International Participation), NFDC India while highlighting the philosophy behind the new IFFI poster.

 

One of the key highlights was the launch of the India Film Guide, a comprehensive resource that showcases India's vast filmmaking talent, incentives for international co-productions, and filming locations. The guide was launched by the attending dignitaries, symbolizing India’s openness to global collaboration.

 

Veteran actor Anupam Kher delivered a special address, sharing heartfelt reflections on the journey of Indian cinema and his personal experiences representing India internationally. “I am eight years younger to my country and we both grew together. We have really, really done very well. This is my first time in Cannes, I am so happy to be here in the Mahakumbh of cinema.” Kher said.

Also present on the dais was Rupjyoti Brahma Karjee, Consulate General of India, Marseille, whose support has been instrumental in fostering Indo-French cultural cooperation along with Sreerag Mukundan, OSD, Films, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India and Ravi Kottarakara, President, South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce.

‘Bharat Pavilion’ organised by NFDC and FICCI under the aegis of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India, at Cannes continues to serve as a vibrant platform for promoting Indian cinema on a global scale, connecting filmmakers, distributors, and audiences from around the world under one cultural umbrella. As the festival unfolds, India’s presence promises to be one of creativity, collaboration, and cinematic celebration.

 

 

NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies)Apply by May 26 for Top-Ranked Programs in Engineering, Law, Commerce & More


NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies), one of India’s top-ranked universities, is inviting final applications for its undergraduate programs for the academic year 2025. Students who have recently completed their Class 12 exams and are exploring career options in Engineering, Law, Commerce, Pharmacy, Management, or Analytics can apply through the university’s dedicated entrance exams.


The NPAT, NCET, NLAT, and MST entrance exam registration closes on May 26, 2025.


The NMIMS NPAT (National Test for Programs After Twelfth) is the entrance exam for admissions to undergraduate programs in Commerce, Economics, Liberal Arts, Branding & Advertising, International Studies, and Marketing. These programs are offered across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Bengaluru, Indore, Hyderabad, and Chandigarh campuses.

Programs in Liberal Arts, Branding & Advertising, International Studies, and Management are available exclusively at the Mumbai campus.


The NCET (NMIMS Common Entrance Test) is the gateway to Pharmacy and Engineering programs at NMIMS. The five-year dual degree B Pharm + MBA (Pharma Tech) program offered in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Shirpur, combines pharmaceutical sciences with essential business management fundamentals. The School of Technology Management and Engineering offers B.Tech and MBA Tech degrees with specialisations in AI, Cybersecurity, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Civil, and Computer Engineering.


Placement outcomes for Engineering and Pharmacy graduates have been strong. Engineering students have received packages up to ₹30 LPA, with an average of ₹11 LPA, and are placed at companies such as EY, Deloitte, KPMG, PWC, and Goldman Sachs. Pharmacy students have received offers up to ₹21 LPA, with an average package of ₹10 LPA, from companies such as Sun Pharma, Zydus Life, Merck, Cipla, and Glenmark.


The MST (Mathematics and Statistics Test) is the entrance exam for students interested in careers in data science, statistics, and analytics. It is the gateway to programs offered by the Nilkamal School of Mathematics, Applied Statistics & Analytics (NSOMASA), Mumbai. Graduates have been placed at companies such as Amazon, KPMG, Unilever, HDFC, and CRISIL, with top offers up to ₹22 LPA and average packages at ₹19 LPA.


The NLAT (NMIMS Law Aptitude Test) is for admissions to the School of Law. The school offers a five-year integrated Law and Management program, covering core subjects such as Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contract Law, and business subjects like Finance and Management. Graduates have been placed at leading firms such as Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Khaitan & Co, Trilegal, and HDFC Bank, with average packages at ₹10 LPA and top offers at ₹19 LPA.


How to Apply


To register for the NMIMS entrance exams (NPAT, NCET, MST, NLAT), follow these steps:


1. Visit the official NMIMS application portal: https://apply.nmims.edu/

2. Fill out the application form with the required details.

3. Verify your email ID and mobile number.

4. Log in again using your registered email ID and password.

5. Select your entrance exam (NPAT, CET, LAT, MST), preferred school(s), program(s), and campus(es). You may apply to multiple programs and exams.

6. Pay the registration fee.

7. Schedule your exam based on your preferred date and centre. Please note: Slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



About NMIMS University


Established in 1981, NMIMS University has evolved into a multi-disciplinary and multi-campus institution, with over 26,000 students, seven campuses, and 17 specialised schools. Its programs are recognised for academic rigour, practical learning, and strong industry partnerships.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

LIC’s new business premium in April 2025 grew at faster pace than both the overall industry and Private Life Insurers The Insurance behemoth collected Rs 12,383.64 crore in April 2024

Tuesday, 13 April 2025: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), the country’s largest life insurer, reported a 9.91% year-on-year (YoY) increase in new business premium for April 2025—surpassing the industry growth rate of 8.43% and private life insurers’ growth of 6.09%, as per data released by the Life Insurance Council.


In April 2025, LIC collected ₹13,610.63 crore in new business premiums, up from ₹12,383.64 crore in April 2024. The overall life insurance industry garnered ₹21,965.73 crore, marking an 8.43% rise over ₹20,258.86 crore collected in the same month last year. Private life insurers contributed ₹8,355.10 crore, registering a 6.09% growth over the previous year’s ₹7,875.22 crore.

 

                                        New Business Premium (in Rs cr)

 

April 2024

April 2025

% Change

LIC

12,383.64

13,610.63

9.91

Life Insurance Industry

20,258.86

21,965.73

8.43

Private Life Insurer

7,875.22

8,355.10

6.09

Source: Life Insurance Council

 

In the Individual Premium category, LIC posted a slight decline of 0.46%, collecting ₹3,160.87 crore in April 2025 compared to ₹3,175.47 crore in April 2024. However, the Group Premium segment recorded a robust 13.48% growth, rising to ₹10,449.76 crore from ₹9,208.17 crore a year earlier.

 

During the month of April 2025, Total Policies issued by LIC stood at 7.26 lakh from 8.56 lakh in the same period last year. While individual policies was 7.24 lakh polices for the month of April 2025 from 8.55 lakh policies for the month of April 2024, Group Policies stood at 1,169 in the month of April 2025 from 1,425 for the month of April 2024.

 

Comparison of January-April 2025 with January-April 2024

 

Total Premium collected by LIC for the four-month period January- April 2025, stood at ₹82,324.58 crore from ₹87,500.97 crore for the same month last year. In the Individual Premium segment amounted to ₹23,188.46 crore, compared to ₹22,164.24 crore in the same period last year. The Group Premium segment amounted to ₹59,136.12 crore for the January-April 2025, from ₹65,336.73 crore in the previous year.

 

LIC issued a total policy of 68.05 lakh for the four-month period January-April 2025 from 87.05 lakh policies in the same period last year. Policies for the Individual Category stood at 67.97 lakh in the January-April 2025, from 86.92 lakh in the January-April 2024. Group Policies stood at 8,930 in the January-April 2025 from 13,248 policies in the January-April 2024.