Loom Crafts Introduces India’s Rooftop Entertainment Collection, Redefining Luxury Outdoor Living

Loom Crafts Introduces India’s Rooftop Entertainment Collection, Redefining Luxury Outdoor Living

Loom Crafts Introduces India's Rooftop Entertainment Collection, Redefining Luxury Outdoor Living

As urban lifestyles evolve and homes increasingly become spaces for work, wellness, entertainment and family life, rooftops are emerging as one of the most valuable yet underutilised areas in premium residences. Homeowners are now transforming terraces into elegant outdoor destinations for entertaining guests, dining under the open sky and enjoying resort-inspired living without leaving home.

Recognising this growing lifestyle shift, Loom Crafts, one of India’s leading luxury outdoor furniture brands, has introduced its Rooftop Entertainment Collection a thoughtfully curated range designed to help architects, interior designers and homeowners create complete outdoor living environments rather than simply furnish a terrace.

With over two decades of expertise in luxury outdoor furniture, Loom Crafts has delivered outdoor solutions for luxury residences, resorts, hotels, restaurants, clubhouses and hospitality destinations across India. The new collection builds on this experience by combining timeless aesthetics with world-class materials and engineering.

The collection features modular lounge seating, outdoor sofas, sectional arrangements, dining collections, bar counters, coffee tables, daybeds, swings, sun loungers and complementary accessories. Its modular approach allows rooftops of every size from compact urban terraces to expansive villas, penthouses and farmhouses—to be customised into dedicated zones for lounging, dining, entertaining and wellness.

Designed specifically for demanding outdoor environments, every piece incorporates premium powder-coated aluminium frames, weather-resistant synthetic wicker and rope, corrosion-resistant hardware, quick-dry foam technology and internationally recognised performance fabrics such as Sunbrella® and Agora®. These materials deliver exceptional resistance to sunlight, rain, humidity and changing weather conditions while ensuring long-term comfort and durability.

Speaking about the launch, Rahul Jindal, Director, Loom Crafts, said: “The rooftop is becoming the new living room of modern homes. Families today want private outdoor spaces where they can celebrate, entertain, relax and reconnect with nature. Our Rooftop Entertainment Collection is not simply a furniture range—it is a complete outdoor lifestyle solution that helps transform ordinary rooftops into extraordinary living experiences.”

He further added: “As outdoor living becomes an integral part of luxury residential design, homeowners are looking beyond products and investing in experiences. Through thoughtful design, premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship, we aim to help create outdoor spaces that enrich everyday life while offering architects and designers complete flexibility in planning beautiful environments.”

The collection is available through Loom Crafts Experience Centres and authorised partners across India. Dedicated design consultations are also available for architects, interior designers, hospitality projects and luxury homeowners seeking bespoke outdoor solutions.

With this launch, Loom Crafts continues to strengthen its position as a pioneer in premium outdoor living, combining innovative design, advanced materials and engineering excellence to shape the future of luxury outdoor lifestyles in India.

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League

Aug 12: Pocket FM, the world’s largest audio series platform, has partnered with Alpine APL Pipers as Global Co-Sponsor for the team’s campaign in the Global Chess League 2026, scheduled to be held from 3–13 September 2026. The partnership marks another milestone in Pocket FM’s international brand journey as it continues to strengthen its global brand presence through strategic partnerships with globally recognised sporting franchises.

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League

 

Led by reigning World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, Alpine APL Pipers is one of the Global Chess League’s marquee franchises, bringing together an exceptional international line-up featuring Anish Giri, Vidit Gujrathi, Koneru Humpy, Divya Deshmukh and Volodar Murzin. Through this collaboration, Pocket FM aligns with a franchise that represents excellence, strategy and world-class sporting ambition.

As part of the partnership, Pocket FM will have a strong presence across the team’s key touchpoints through integrated branding, digital visibility, broadcast integrations, on-ground fan engagement initiatives, exclusive player interactions, and a range of brand-led experiences throughout the tournament.

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League

 

Rohan Nayak, CEO & Co-Founder of Pocket Entertainment, said, “At Pocket FM, we believe the world’s greatest stories and the game of chess share something fundamental – imagination, strategy and the pursuit of excellence. Our partnership with Alpine APL Pipers reflects our commitment to supporting communities that inspire millions while connecting with audiences through culture, passion, and ideas that transcend borders.”

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League

 

Mahesh Bhupathi, Chief Executive Officer of SG Sports-Media-Entertainment, said, “We are delighted to welcome Pocket FM as our Global Co-Sponsor for the Global Chess League 2026. Pocket FM has built a strong global community and a distinctive storytelling platform that resonates with audiences across markets, making them a natural partner for Alpine APL Pipers.”

Beyond the competition, the partnership will create opportunities for fan engagement throughout the tournament, allowing audiences to connect with some of the world’s leading chess players while following Alpine APL Pipers’ journey in the Global Chess League.

Magnus Carlsen, World No. 1 and Icon Player for Alpine APL Pipers, said, “The Global Chess League has created a unique platform that brings together some of the world’s best players while making team chess more exciting for fans around the world. It’s great to welcome Pocket FM to the Alpine APL Pipers family, and I’m looking forward to an exciting season together.”

For Pocket FM, the partnership is part of a broader strategy to build deeper global consumer engagement through culturally relevant platforms that bring together world-class talent and passionate communities.

Vineet Singh, Global Head of Brand Marketing, Communications, Partnerships & Public Affairs at Pocket FM, said, “As Pocket FM expands globally, we are focused on partnerships that strengthen our international brand. Chess is a game of strategy, imagination, and anticipation, the same qualities that define great storytelling.”

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Make Its Mark at Global Chess League 2026

Partnership brings Pocket FM together with World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and one of the Global Chess League’s marquee franchises, reinforcing the brand’s growing international presence

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League 2026

 

India, Aug 12: Pocket FM, the world’s largest audio series platform, has partnered with Alpine APL Pipers as Global Co-Sponsor for the team’s campaign in the Global Chess League 2026, scheduled to be held from 3–13 September 2026. The partnership marks another milestone in Pocket FM’s international brand journey as it continues to strengthen its global brand presence through strategic partnerships with globally recognised sporting franchises.

Led by reigning World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, Alpine APL Pipers is one of the Global Chess League’s marquee franchises, bringing together an exceptional international line-up featuring Anish Giri, Vidit Gujrathi, Koneru Humpy, Divya Deshmukh and Volodar Murzin. Through this collaboration, Pocket FM aligns with a franchise that represents excellence, strategy and world-class sporting ambition.

As part of the partnership, Pocket FM will have a strong presence across the team’s key touchpoints through integrated branding, digital visibility, broadcast integrations, on-ground fan engagement initiatives, exclusive player interactions, and a range of brand-led experiences throughout the tournament.

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League 2026

 

Rohan Nayak, CEO & Co-Founder of Pocket Entertainment, said, “At Pocket FM, we believe the world’s greatest stories and the game of chess share something fundamental – imagination, strategy and the pursuit of excellence. Our partnership with Alpine APL Pipers reflects our commitment to supporting communities that inspire millions while connecting with audiences through culture, passion, and ideas that transcend borders.”

Pocket FM Partners with Alpine APL Pipers to Boost Global Brand Presence at Global Chess League 2026

 

Mahesh Bhupathi, Chief Executive Officer of SG Sports-Media-Entertainment, said, “We are delighted to welcome Pocket FM as our Global Co-Sponsor for the Global Chess League 2026. Pocket FM has built a strong global community and a distinctive storytelling platform that resonates with audiences across markets, making them a natural partner for Alpine APL Pipers.”

Beyond the competition, the partnership will create opportunities for fan engagement throughout the tournament, allowing audiences to connect with some of the world’s leading chess players while following Alpine APL Pipers’ journey in the Global Chess League.

Magnus Carlsen, World No. 1 and Icon Player for Alpine APL Pipers, said, “The Global Chess League has created a unique platform that brings together some of the world’s best players while making team chess more exciting for fans around the world. It’s great to welcome Pocket FM to the Alpine APL Pipers family, and I’m looking forward to an exciting season together.”

For Pocket FM, the partnership is part of a broader strategy to build deeper global consumer engagement through culturally relevant platforms that bring together world-class talent and passionate communities.

Vineet Singh, Global Head of Brand Marketing, Communications, Partnerships & Public Affairs at Pocket FM, said, “As Pocket FM expands globally, we are focused on partnerships that strengthen our international brand. Chess is a game of strategy, imagination, and anticipation, the same qualities that define great storytelling.”

Mana Unveils The Right Life’s Forest Province with ₹3,101 Crore GDV, Strengthening Its Nature-Led Luxury Portfolio in Bengaluru

~A thoughtfully designed 10-acre residential province centred around a 1+acre urban forest, blending community living, green spaces, and contemporary high-rise design~

BENGALURU, India, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As homebuyers increasingly seek residences that go beyond conventional apartment living, there is a growing preference for integrated townships that offer a balanced lifestyle combining nature, community, safety, and long-term value. In Bengaluru, this shift is driving demand for developments that seamlessly integrate green spaces, social infrastructure, and modern conveniences within a single, cohesive ecosystem.

Mana Unveils The Right Life's Forest Province

Aligned with this evolving aspiration, Mana Skanda has launched Forest Province, a premium 10-acre residential enclave within The Right Life, a large master-planned township. With an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of ₹3,101 crore, the project will comprise approximately 1,052 Units with a total saleable area of around 2,434,025 sq. ft. Envisioned as a private and serene province within a vibrant urban ecosystem, Forest Province brings together nature-led planning, high-rise living and community-focused design.

An Integrated Address Within a Larger Ecosystem

Strategically positioned within a 100+ acre integrated development, Forest Province offers residents the advantage of living within a well-connected and self-sustained environment. Located close to the township’s grand entrance and upcoming office developments, the enclave ensures enhanced live-work convenience while maintaining a sense of exclusivity and privacy.

East Bengaluru’s Next Phase of Residential Evolution

Once driven primarily by IT-led growth, East Bengaluru has transformed into a well-rounded residential corridor supported by strong social infrastructure, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and retail destinations. This evolution continues to attract homebuyers seeking integrated communities that offer both connectivity and a high quality of life.

Commenting on the launch, D. Kishore Reddy, CMD, Mana Projects, said: “Forest Province is envisioned as a space where residents can reconnect with nature without stepping away from the city. With the central forest, pedestrian-first design, and thoughtfully planned community spaces, the development reflects our belief that modern luxury lies in creating environments that are calm, connected, and designed for long-term well-being.”

A Forest-Led Living Experience

At the heart of Forest Province lies a 1+ acre ground-level forest—an expansive green zone equivalent to nearly 15 tennis courts—designed as a living ecological core. With over 1,000 trees, shrubs, and plants, the forest is curated to reflect natural biodiversity, creating a dense, evolving habitat that enhances air quality, visual appeal, and overall well-being. Inspired by the Miyawaki forest approach, the dense green cover also helps create a cooler, quieter microclimate while bringing nature closer to everyday living. This nature-first approach extends across the development through landscaped zones and open spaces, creating a seamless connection between residents and their surroundings.

High-Rise Living, Reimagined for Space and Light

Forest Province features eight residential towers rising up to 33 floors, with just four residences per floor, ensuring privacy and exclusivity. The homes comprise large-format 3, 3.5 & 4BHK configurations ranging from approximately 1,700 to 2,800 sq. ft., designed to maximise space, natural light, and ventilation. Contemporary layouts, larger windows, and refined interiors offer a living experience that balances comfort with functionality.

A key highlight of the development is its vehicle-free podium design, which prioritises safety, walkability, and cleaner living environments. Vehicular movement is directed to basement levels through dedicated ramps, allowing the podium to remain free of traffic, creating quieter and more community-friendly spaces. Carefully planned circulation ensures smooth movement for both pedestrians and vehicles.

A Multi-Layered Club and Lifestyle Offering

Spanning over 46,000 sq. ft., the development offers three distinct clubhouses designed to cater to diverse lifestyle needs:

  1. Club One: A ground-level clubhouse integrating indoor recreation, swimming pool access, and direct connection to the central forest
  2. Sky Club: An elevated lifestyle space offering panoramic views, thoughtfully divided into:
  3. Sun Club: Fitness, co-working, and wellness spaces including gym, yoga areas, and library
  4. Moon Club: Social and leisure experiences including spa, party zones, performance spaces, and lounges

Together, these spaces create a comprehensive ecosystem for fitness, recreation, work, and social interaction.

A Community-Centric, Future-Ready Living Experience

Forest Province is designed to foster an active and socially engaging lifestyle, with outdoor amenities such as sports courts, fitness zones, children’s play areas, and landscaped spaces that extend living beyond individual homes. As a private enclave within a larger township, it offers a balance of exclusivity and connectivity, bringing together nature, design, and everyday convenience in a calm, well-connected urban setting. Thoughtfully planned spaces encourage everyday interactions while also offering areas for relaxation and quiet reflection, creating a holistic living experience.

About Mana Projects:

Founded in 2000 by Mr. D. Kishore Reddy, Mana Projects has been crafting thoughtfully designed living experiences across Bengaluru for over 26 years. Guided by the philosophy of “The Art of Living Brilliantly,” Mana Projects believes a home is where architecture meets intuition, balancing proportion, natural light and timeless design. With a strong presence across key growth corridors, the brand focuses on creating future-ready communities that elevate everyday living through thoughtful planning, quality construction and enduring elegance.

 

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Mana Unveils The Right Life's Forest Province with ₹3,101 Crore GDV, Strengthening Its Nature-Led Luxury Portfolio in Bengaluru

nubia Neo 5 Max with 7.5-Inch Display Lands as a New PadPhone Category

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — nubia, a highly personalized and lifestyle smartphone brand committed to bringing pro-level gaming to everyone, announced the global rollout of nubia Neo 5 Max, introducing a new PadPhone category that combines the expansive viewing experience of a compact tablet with the portable control of a gaming console. Built around a segment-leading 7.5-inch display, nubia Neo 5 Max brings together pad-level immersion, console-level control, immersive audio-visual feedback and AI-powered gaming assistance in one versatile device for gaming, entertainment and everyday productivity.

nubia Neo 5 Max with 7.5-Inch Display Lands as a New PadPhone Category

“As games become more immersive and young players spend more of their digital lives on mobile devices, the gaming smartphone needs to evolve into a true personal hub,” said Bai Keke, Vice President of ZTE. “At nubia, we are committed to making flagship-level gaming technologies accessible to a broader audience. nubia Neo 5 Max brings the PadPhone concept to life by integrating industry-leading control engineering, a pioneering thermal architecture and flagship-level tuning, where players can play harder, watch bigger and do more wherever they are.”

All-in-One Hub with 7.5-inch Display Leads the New Way for Gaming and Living

nubia Neo 5 Max brings the PadPhone concept with its segment-leading 7.5-inch 1.5K display, delivering 27% more visible area than nubia Neo 5 5G. Featuring an 18.7:9 golden aspect ratio for a more focused gaming experience, the device enlarges enemy outlines by 40% in FPS games. It carries SGS-certified hardware-level eye-care certification for full-scene low blue light and true DC dimming, combined with self-developed eye-caring software functions and smart eye-use reminders, keeping players comfortable every round.

Multiple adaptive modes unlock full potentials of the expansive 7.5-inch display, transforming it into a versatile all-in-one hub. Landscape Mode with protective case stand converts it into a personal mini-TV. E-Ink Mode delivers ink-screen-like visuals for eye-comfort reading, while Controller and Streaming Modes provide responsive, low-latency AAA game casting. For ultimate efficiency, Floating Window and Split-Screen Modes enable seamless multitasking.

Console-Level Control Meets Full-Sensory Immersion

nubia Neo 5 Max features Neo Triggers 5.0 with a 990Hz sampling rate and 4.7ms hardware response latency for fast execution across aiming, firing, moving, and skill activation in a flexible four-finger mode. Designed around C-grip holding style, its 7.5-inch golden control ratio expands the touch area by 27% and widens key spacing by 21% over conventional layouts. Magic Touch 3.0 filters accidental inputs from wet or oily fingers, while a high-precision gyroscope sharpens rotational control, and the 360° Game Antenna ensures stable connectivity.

Dual real symmetrical speakers deliver 300% louder volume accompanied by an anti-obstruction audio design. Powered by Dolby Atmos immersive audio, nubia Neo 5 Max delivers a richer sound experience with incredible depth, clarity, and details that connects users more deeply with their favorite games, movies, music, and more. Z-axis linear motor and RGB Eagle Eye lighting complete the gaming experience by providing haptic feedback for in-game actions and dynamic RGB lighting effects.

30,000mm²+ Cooling System and 7,100mAh Dual-Cell Battery for Marathon Gaming

nubia Neo 5 Max pairs a MediaTek Dimensity 7100 6nm chipset, LPDDR5X memory and UFS 2.2 storage with the NeoTurbo Engine for robust performance, steady frame rates and power efficiency. This model is built with a pioneering 30,000mm²+ cooling system that improves heat-dissipation efficiency by 140% through a dual-layer capillary vapor chamber that expands vapor-liquid circulation pathways and a 3D stamped VC panel for faster heat dissipation. AI Game Space 5.0 provides quick access to gaming tools and intelligent assistance. AI Copilot Demi 2.0 acts as a gaming coach and companion, offering real-time guidance, battle updates and game-related support for players.

A 7,100mAh super dual-cell battery distributes power more efficiently, helping reduce heat and support long-term battery reliability during demanding use. While gaming, Bypass Charging powers the device directly without heating the battery. Even at 5% battery, 5% Extreme Mode keeps players gaming for up to 22.9 minutes.

nubia Neo 5 Max is available first in Southeast Asia as part of its global rollout, coming in Shadow Black, Titanium Gold, and Cyber Silver, offering configurations of 20GB (8GB + 12GB) RAM with 256GB storage or 512GB storage.

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

ZTE Corporation

Communications

Email: ZTE.press.release@zte.com.cn

nubia Neo 5 Max with 7.5-Inch Display Lands as a New PadPhone Category

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nubia Neo 5 Max with 7.5-Inch Display Lands as a New PadPhone Category

K Raheja Corp presents ‘Ekta Ki Dhun’, a stomp band musical film celebrating the spirit of unity this Independence Day

Shoppers Stop | K Raheja Corp presents 'Ekta Ki Dhun', a stomp band musical film celebrating the spirit of unity this Independence Day

Mumbai, Aug 12: K Raheja Corp, one of India’s leading real estate conglomerates, marks its fourth consecutive year of Independence Day storytelling with the launch of Ekta Ki Dhun. Set to the timeless melody of Vande Mataram, the musical film brings together five of the Group’s businesses, through a unique stomp band. Employees, customers, partners and labourers use everyday elements from construction sites, offices, homes, hotels, malls and retail stores to create a unique musical film celebrating the spirit of unity.

Following the success of Pragati Ki DhunAzadi Ki Dhun and Desh Ki Dhun, over the last 3 years, K Raheja Corp continues its tradition of marking Independence Day through an original musical film. This year, Ekta Ki Dhun celebrates the spirit of unity by showcasing how diverse businesses and locations across K Raheja Corp come together to create a single, unified rhythm, echoing the collective spirit that binds the organisation and the nation.

Cheryl D’Souza-Waldiya, Vice President and Head – Corporate Communications, K Raheja Corp, said, “More than creating spaces, we’re in the business of touching lives through memorable experiences. Each Independence Day, we tell that story through music. This year, the story is unityEkta Ki Dhun brings the sounds of our people and places together into one rhythm, a reminder of what binds us as a Group, and as a nation.” 

Filmed across K Raheja Corp‘s business, Mindspace REIT, K Raheja Corp Homes, Chalet Hotels, Inorbit Malls and Shoppers Stop, the musical film captures the distinct rhythm of each business environment by transforming familiar elements into instruments. Construction materials, workplace essentials, household objects, hospitality equipment, mall fixtures and retail elements come together in a unique stomp band rendition of Vande Mataram, blending five businesses into one seamless harmony.

Adding another dimension to the musical, talented K Raheja Corp employees who are trained musicians performed live alongside the stomp band, seamlessly blending live instrumentation with everyday sounds into the final composition.

Conceptualised by K Raheja Corp‘s Corporate Communications team, Ekta Ki Dhun has been composed by acclaimed music director Sanket Sane and directed by filmmaker Alok Sutar.

Launching across K Raheja Corp‘s digital platforms this Independence DayEkta Ki Dhun carries forward the Group’s tradition of turning its bricks-and-mortar story into music – one that celebrates not just the diversity of its businesses, but the collective spirit that defines India itself.

Asset Managers Are Concerned About the Risks That AI Introduces, Clearwater Analytics Research Reveals

Firms are racing to adopt AI, but few have built the data foundation that can reduce the risks that come with it 

BOISE, Idaho, NEW YORK, CHICAGO, LONDON and HONG KONG, Aug 12 Artificial intelligence is becoming more deeply embedded in asset management operations, but new research from Clearwater Analytics finds that firms are deeply concerned about the risks it introduces, from data governance to regulatory compliance.

Clearwater’s “GenAI and the Data Divide” study, which polled insurance asset managers, hedge funds, private markets specialists, and general asset managers, finds that while AI offers clear efficiency and alpha-generation opportunities, it also introduces new vulnerabilities that firms must actively manage.

Culture and Capability

The most striking finding concerns the gap between adoption and readiness. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of asset managers are concerned they lack the skills and experience to use AI effectively, with 43% describing themselves as very concerned.

More than half (52%) are separately concerned that internal culture and resistance to change will slow adoption and readiness. These findings suggest that for many firms, the biggest barrier to realizing AI’s potential isn’t the technology itself. It could be the organization culture surrounding it.

Technology Risk

At the heart of firms’ AI concerns lies a fundamental question of trust.  Can they rely on what the technology produces?  Two thirds (67%) of asset managers are concerned about data governance, reliability, and integrity risks, while 64% are concerned about operational risks.

Given the increasing number of asset managers using AI to support investment decision making, 64% of those participating in the research say they are worried about model/algorithm transparency, explainability, and bias. In addition, 62% are concerned about hallucinations where AI generates plausible sounding but false information and presents it as true.

Compliance Burden

More than half (55%) of global asset managers say they are concerned about the regulatory risks of AI, with 30% saying they are very concerned. A similar amount (58%) of asset managers are worried about the financial risk from AI, including management of credit, market, and fraud risks. Finally, 64% say they are worried about the implementation costs of AI.

The research also reveals that while many asset managers say they are prepared to manage AI-enabled risks, a notable proportion still have work to do. In particular, 16% of asset managers surveyed say they are not prepared for AI-enabled operational risks, and 15% say they are not ready for risks arising from the lack of AI skill and experience across their organizations.

To help mitigate AI-enabled risks, nearly all (93%) of asset managers surveyed agree that the best approach is to balance human expertise with technology, using AI to augment or empower risk teams rather than replace them.

 Souvik Das, CTO at Clearwater Analytics, said: “What struck me most in this research is how often the same root cause appears, no matter which risk we asked about. Underneath the concerns about skills, culture, governance, and compliance sits one common thread. Firms don’t yet fully trust the data feeding their AI. That’s a natural stage for any technology this new to move through. The firms navigating it well are the ones treating their data with the same care they bring to the technology itself. That’s what turns AI from something people double-check into something they can rely on to tell them the truth about the risk in front of them.”

 

IndiaFirst Life launches GOLD Term Plan, Where Protection Goes Beyond Life Cover

MUMBAI, India, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), today announced the launch of the IndiaFirst Life GOLD Term Plan, a holistic protection solution that brings together life cover, wellness benefits, and family-focused features in a single offering.

As awareness of financial protection continues to increase, term insurance penetration in India remains relatively low, highlighting a significant opportunity to strengthen financial security for more families. At the same time, customers are increasingly looking beyond basic life cover and seeking solutions that offer greater flexibility, wellness support and long-term value. The IndiaFirst Life GOLD Term Plan has been designed to address these evolving expectations while making protection more relevant across different stages of life.

Commenting on the launch, Varun Gupta, Chief Distribution Officer – Bancassurance, IndiaFirst Life, said, “Protection should not be limited to a financial payout when something goes wrong. It should evolve with customers and create value throughout their journey. The IndiaFirst Life GOLD Term Plan reflects this thinking by combining protection, wellness and flexibility in a single offering. At its heart is a simple belief—do right by the customer, stay true to their needs, and deliver value consistently.”

Sumeet Sahni, Chief Distribution Officer – Agency & Alliances, IndiaFirst Life, said, “Awareness around the importance of financial protection has grown significantly, yet term insurance adoption remains lower than it should be. Customers increasingly expect solutions that go beyond basic life cover and offer greater flexibility and tangible value. The IndiaFirst Life GOLD Term Plan addresses this need by combining protection, wellness and family-focused benefits, helping customers secure their future and navigate life’s responsibilities with greater confidence.”

The IndiaFirst Life GOLD Term Plan is designed for individuals and families seeking protection that goes beyond traditional life cover. By combining financial security, wellness support and family-focused benefits, the plan offers a more holistic approach to protection. The launch further strengthens IndiaFirst Life’s portfolio of customer-centric solutions that help customers navigate life’s responsibilities while securing their future and creating long-term value.

About IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited

Headquartered in Mumbai, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), with a paid-up share capital of INR 754 crores, is one of the country’s youngest life insurance companies. Its current shareholders include Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, and Carmel Point Investments India Private Limited, which hold 65%, 09%, and 26% stakes in the company. Carmel Point Investments India Pvt Ltd. is incorporated by Carmel Point Investment Ltd, a body corporate incorporated under the laws of Mauritius and owned by private equity funds managed by Warburg Pincus LLC, New York, United States. The company’s key differentiator is its simple, easy-to-understand products that are fairly priced and efficiently serviced. For details, please visit https://www.indiafirstlife.com/.

 

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IndiaFirst Life launches GOLD Term Plan, Where Protection Goes Beyond Life Cover

AMGEN TO OPEN NEW SCIENCE & INNOVATION CENTER IN GENOME VALLEY, HYDERABAD

New Site Will Support Global Research and Development Capabilities and Advance Scientific Research

HYDERABAD, India, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN) today announced plans to open a new Science and Innovation Center at Genome Valley in Hyderabad. The center will join Amgen’s global Research and Development network, which consists of seven research laboratories, further expanding the company’s research and scientific capabilities.

L to R: Nikhil Charavarthi, Commissioner, Industries; Sarvesh Singh, CEO, Telangana Life Sciences; Krishna Aditya, Special Secretary, Industries; Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana; Naveen Gullapalli, Managing Director, Amgen India; Srini Kosaraju, Executive Director, Quality, Amgen India; and Anumita Tripathi, Director, Corporate Affairs, Amgen India

The new site reflects Amgen’s continued focus on fighting the world’s toughest diseases by harnessing the best of biology and technology. By integrating advanced scientific capabilities with data and digital innovation, the company aims to accelerate the discovery and development of innovative medicines for patients worldwide.

“The new center in Genome Valley expands the way we integrate experimental science with data and technology across our global research capabilities and complements our strong U.S.-based Research and Development footprint,” said Jay Bradner, M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development, Artificial Intelligence and Data at Amgen. “By connecting these capabilities, we can learn faster and translate those insights into innovative medicines for patients.”

“Hyderabad has built one of the world’s strongest life sciences ecosystems, with deep capabilities in pharmaceuticals and vaccines. The next chapter is about taking that strength into discovery and innovation. Amgen’s decision to establish its Science and Innovation Center in Genome Valley reflects Hyderabad’s growing role as a global hub for high-value research, bringing together scientific talent, technology and industry at scale. Our ambition is to make Hyderabad a place where the next generation of medicines and therapies can be discovered, developed and taken to the world,” said Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce, and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana.

The center is expected to be operational in 2027, and will bring together scientists and technologists across discovery chemistry, drug metabolism & pharmacokinetics and precision medicine, working closely with Amgen’s research sites around the world. This approach is designed to enhance how medicines are discovered and developed, improving speed, precision, and efficiency.

“This new center reflects Amgen’s commitment to advancing scientific excellence, and India will be an important part of our global R&D network,” said Som Chattopadhyay, senior vice president of Global Business Solutions and national executive at Amgen. “By expanding Amgen’s global research capabilities through its Hyderabad site, we are enabling deep scientific collaboration and look forward to participating in the local innovation ecosystem.”

Genome Valley offers strong scientific expertise and infrastructure, and the new facility will complement Amgen’s existing technology and innovation site in Hyderabad. Together, these sites will enable closer integration of wet-laboratory science with innovative technology, advancing how the company develops medicines.

“Hyderabad’s strong life sciences ecosystem and deep STEM expertise enable us to apply advanced technologies at scale,” said Naveen Gullapalli, managing director, Amgen India. “Our new center at Genome Valley will help integrate biotechnology and digital innovation to serve more patients globally.”

About Amgen 

Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures, and delivers innovative medicines to fight some of the world’s toughest diseases. Harnessing the best of biology and technology, Amgen reaches millions of patients with its medicines.

More than 45 years ago, Amgen helped establish the biotechnology industry at its U.S. headquarters in Thousand Oaks, California, and it remains at the cutting edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what is known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline and portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, inflammatory conditions, rare diseases and obesity-related conditions.

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Indian Music Industry Faces ₹350 Crore Annual Sync Revenue Loss

Unlicensed Commercial Use Continues to Go Undetected Across Social Platforms

ContentLens Estimates Global Loss at USD 1 Billion Annually

MUMBAI, India, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Millions of reels are created every single day across social media platforms in India. The scale of unlicensed commercial use of copyrighted music is staggering. Based on revenue-at-risk assessments conducted with leading labels on the platform, the Indian music industry is estimated to be losing upwards of ₹350 crore annually to unlicensed commercial use of its catalogues. And the labels knew this sync revenue loss was happening.

A year ago, ContentLens gave India’s music labels something they had never had: evidence of who is using their tracks across social media and streaming platforms, complete with timestamps and financial profiling of the infringing entity. The platform’s patent-applied IP Detection Engine goes beyond standard audio matching and manual search methods. It also catches slowed versions, remixes, and unauthorised cover tracks and these manipulations routinely slip through conventional mechanism. Four of India’s leading labels and one international major have been on the platform building their detection capability and recovering their lost sync revenues. Now, ContentLens is closing the loop with a fully managed Enforcement Service i.e. the only platform in the market that takes a music rights violation from identification all the way through to settlement, entirely on the label’s behalf. Two labels have already joined ContentLens for this 360-degree detection-to-settlement enforcement.

One large label’s own internal assessment estimated its annual sync revenue at risk at ₹18 crore from social media infringements alone. Extrapolated across India’s music industry using the revenue market share logic, the total exposure runs upwards of ₹350 crore (approximately USD 40 million) every year.

Globally, the problem is far larger. The recorded music industry is valued at USD 31 billion. Applying conservative market share and licensing-awareness adjustments, ContentLens estimates the global sync revenue loss from unlicensed social media usage at approximately USD 1 billion annually, a largely invisible leak that no label, anywhere, has had the tools to address until now.

In their own words:

“Detection without enforcement is just a filing cabinet. We spent the last year proving our technology works at scale. Across the top 100 songs a label gives us, we detect 80-100 infringing videos every month, 98% of them clearly unlicensed. Today we are closing the loop i.e. from formal notices to negotiations and settlements, entirely managed by ContentLens on the label’s behalf. Zero burden on the label’s team. The music industry finally has a platform that does not just watch. It acts.”

–  Rohan Sahu, Founder & CEO, ContentLens

“Every label head I speak to knows their music is being used without permission. Nobody had a way to prove it, quantify it, or act on it. ContentLens has spent the last year doing exactly that with five leading labels. The data points speak for themselves: ₹350 crore in India, USD 1 billion globally – sync revenue that the industry has been leaving on the table, year after year. Every label can run that math against their own market share and see exactly what they stand to earn.”

–  Hari Nair, Strategic Advisor, ContentLens & Former CEO, Tips Music Limited

Your music is already being used. The only question is whether you are going to get paid for it.

About ContentLens

ContentLens (contentlens.ai) is an AI-powered intellectual property protection platform built for the generative AI era, operating across music IP protection, celebrity likeness and deepfake detection, content provenance (C2PA) and watermarking, and counterfeit detection. Headquartered in Bangalore and backed by the NVIDIA Inception Program and Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, ContentLens serves music labels, celebrity talent, sports organisations, and enterprise brands seeking to protect their IP at scale.

 

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Indian Music Industry Faces ₹350 Crore Annual Sync Revenue Loss