Archive: June 30, 2025

Spice Money Achieves Major Milestone: 9.5 Million Rural Bill Payments Processed in 2025

New Delhi, 30 June 2025: Spice Money (a subsidiary of DiGiSPICE Technologies), India’s pioneer in rural fintech and a leader in assisted digital payments platform, has facilitated over 9.5 million digital bill payment transactions through the Spice Money App via  Bharat Connect, a platform by NPCI  Bharat BillPay Limited between January and May 2025. Spice Money is an authorized BBPOU license holder under the BBPS framework, providing a compliant platform for rural citizens to carry out bill payments with confidence.

Spice Money’s 15+ lakh strong Adhikari network, with over 1.5 lakh active Adhikaris transacting for bill payments month-on-month, spans across 95% of rural pincodes. These Adhikaris act as digital catalysts, helping citizens pay for services such as electricity, water, education fees, DTH, loan EMIs, mobile recharges, and more—often for the very first time through digital means. Powered by the Bharat Connect platform, the Spice Money App provides a safe and secure environment for users to carry out these critical transactions with ease and confidence. This assisted model has not only boosted transaction volumes but also bridged the digital gap by helping consumers who are unable to complete bill payments by themselves. Through Bharat Connect’s integration with 700+ apps, they are enabling access and support for people who are not aware or confident in using digital platforms.

Among the top performing states, West Bengal emerged as a clear leader with over 18,000 Adhikaris (Agents) assisting more than 2.16 million bill payment transactions Bharat Connect transactions from January – May 2025. It was followed by Bihar, where nearly 15,800 Adhikaris (Agents)  assisted around 2.4 million transactions; Uttar Pradesh, with over 14,500 Adhikaris assisting 7.1 lakh transactions; Madhya Pradesh, with close to 10,600 assisting 6.2 lakh transactions; and Chattisgarh, where over 6,300 Adhikaris (Agents) assisting approximately 5.2 lakh transactions. These states represent the new digital frontier, where people are increasingly relying on platforms like Spice Money App and  Bharat Connect to fulfill everyday financial needs in a seamless and assisted manner. The launch of Bharat Connect’s new campaign of #JaanteNahiParMaanteHain is a testament to the capabilities of the platform in changing the lives of millions of Indians.

Loan repayments and electricity bill payments continued to dominate transaction volumes and value. Loan repayments accounted for 53% of all Spice Money bill payment transactions, retaining the top spot with 5.03 million transactions, while electricity emerged as the second most transacted category, contributing 36.8% of the total volume with 3.5 million transactions. DTH services, LPG gas bills, mobile postpaid payments, and FASTag recharges were also among the most popular categories, reflecting a growing adoption of digital utilities even in the remotest corners of the country. On average, each user paid more than 2 bills every month, pointing to the increasing reliance on digital solutions for recurring payment needs.

Commenting on the sustained growth, Dilip Modi, Founder and CEO of Spice Money, said, “Digital inclusion in Bharat is not just about technology, it is about trust. At Spice Money, we are proud to be India’s No. 1 assisted bill payments platform and an authorized BBPOU license holder, delivering safe, secure, and compliant financial services to the last mile. The real power behind our bill payment success lies in our 15+ lakh strong Adhikari network—local nanopreneurs who simplify digital payment for their communities and offer support with consistency, familiarity, and care. Using the Spice Money App, these Adhikaris (Agents) are assisting people to pay for various utility services often for the very first time through digital means.

We are deeply grateful to NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited and the Bharat Connect ecosystem for building the infrastructure and belief needed to drive this digital shift. What we are witnessing today is not just transactional growth, it is a behavioral transformation in rural India. Spice Money remains committed to making sure no village is left behind in India’s digital journey.”

Ms. Noopur Chaturvedi, Managing Director & CEO, NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited added, “The Bharat Connect platform is designed to create a unified and accessible bill payment ecosystem for every Indian. Our commitment to financial inclusion drives us to take this platform to the last mile, ensuring even the most remote corners of the country are empowered with digital payment access. Uptake in bill payment transactions through assisted platforms like Spice Money highlights the pivotal role of last-mile agents in enabling this vision. By integrating with 700+ apps and platforms, Bharat Connect is making digital bill payments not just convenient but truly inclusive, bridging geographies and digital divides alike. We remain steadfast in our mission to strengthen this ecosystem and accelerate deeper digital adoption, especially in semi-urban and rural areas.”

The Bharat Connect platform is uniquely designed to address the digital and financial needs of underserved regions, offering an assisted environment that empowers even first-time users. Spice Money’s commitment to Viksit Bharat is reflected in its continuous efforts to digitize essential services, while generating livelihood opportunities through its Adhikari network. As the national conversation around digital inclusion and financial access intensifies, Spice Money’s data-rich performance offers a compelling blueprint for how grassroots-led innovation can redefine India’s rural economy. With Bharat Connect, the company continues to pave the way for a future-ready, digitally confident Bharat.

realme’s 15 Series Set to Hit India with AI-Driven Party Features

New Delhi, June 30, 2025: realme, the most popular smartphone brand among Indian youth, is all set to launch the highly anticipated realme 15 series, introducing a fresh wave of AI innovation and mobile photography. Headlining the launch is the realme 15 Pro, positioned as the brand’s most advanced “AI party phone” yet, blending cutting-edge camera intelligence, party-optimized features, and immersive performance for the ultimate social experience.

Notably, the realme 15 Pro variant will now inherit all flagship capabilities previously reserved for the “Plus” line—raising the bar for mid-premium smartphones.  All hallmark features—enhanced imaging and faster chips —will now be offered in the Pro line, streamlining the product family and elevating the Pro badge to a new standard of flagship experience. 

The realme 15 series will debut in bold and party-inspired camera features intelligently designed to detect dynamic lighting environments—be it concerts, dance floors, or house parties. These AI enhancements adjust shutter speed, contrast, and saturation in real time, ensuring vibrant, blur-free memories every time.

The realme 15 Pro 5G and realme 15 5G will be unveiled in India soon.

Emotions Run High as Banita Sandhu and Arjun Tanwar Impress in Detective Sherdil

Panckaj N Umrania Awarded by World Book of Records for Pioneering Book on Carbon Steel Sourcing

New Delhi, June 30, 2025: In a remarkable milestone for the Indian industrial sector, Panckaj N Umrania, Executive Director of KND Steel, has been honoured by the World Book of Records, London, for authoring the world’s first book dedicated to carbon steel sourcing. Titled “Mastering Carbon Steel Sourcing,” the book marks a pioneering achievement that places India on the global map for thought leadership in the steel industry.

Backed by years of experience in global sourcing and supply chain strategy, this publication serves as a comprehensive guide for business owners, automotive component manufacturers, and academic institutions involved in the procurement, application, and trade of carbon steel. It addresses a long-standing gap in technical literature on steel sourcing and will prove invaluable to metallurgical engineers, procurement leaders, and all stakeholders in the steel supply chain ecosystem.

The award ceremony, hosted by the World Book of Records, was witnessed by eminent personalities such as Shri Kalraj Mishra, Former Governor of Rajasthan; Shri Justice V.S. Kokje, Former Governor of Himachal Pradesh; Dr. Varun Kapoor, IPS, Special DGP of Madhya Pradesh; Dr. Ravi Bhagat, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Punjab and Secretary, PWD (B&R); Shri Shankar Lalwani, MP of Indore; Padma Shri Anup Jalota, the celebrated musician themselves; and Mr. Santosh Shukla, President and CEO of the World Book of Records, London. 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Panckaj N Umrania said, “This recognition by the World Book of Records is not just a personal landmark but a matter of pride for the entire Indian industry. I hope this book serves as an inspiration to sourcing professionals, encouraging them to drive further innovation in the steel sector. At KND Steel, we foster the belief that sharing knowledge is the stepping stone to advancement.”

This recognition establishes India in the scene of industrial innovations and global supply-chain strategy. It is a proud achievement not only for Mr. Umrania or KND Steel but for the entire Indian steel and manufacturing ecosystem.

Nesterra 5.0 Collection Debuts at Glamorous Mumbai Launch Event

Mumbai, 30th June, 2025: Nesterra, the premium Home Décor & Furnishings brand from Sutlej Textiles & Industries Ltd., under the stewardship of the K.K. Birla Group, has exclusively launched its much-anticipated 5.0 Collection at Bağlami, BKC, Mumbai on 16th June 2025. This landmark launch marks a pivotal moment in Nesterra’s journey – an evolution of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability – reaffirming its “consumer-first” philosophy.

The event brought together a curated network of retailers, design professionals, and industry experts to explore the thoughtfully crafted collection, engage in meaningful conversations, and experience the look and feel of the fabrics firsthand. The evening concluded with a warm dinner and cocktail night, furthering connections within the design and retail community.

“We always believe a great design should be personal, purposeful, and progressive. Nesterra’s new collection is a celebration of craft, connection and conscience. It reflects the maturity of our design philosophy, the strength of our retail partner, and the clarity of our direction. The launch reflects a simple truth- the strength of our retail partnerships drives the strength of our brand.  We are introducing a new category of Blinds this season which defines Nesterra’s new milestone on product portfolio expansion journey that sets the tone for Nesterra’s next phase of growth, both in domestic and beyond.” said Ashish Kumar, CEO and Wholetime Director, Nesterra.

The 5.0 Collection by Nesterra marks an exciting expansion in both creativity and functionality. This season, the brand introduces a distinct category of blinds, each designed to meet the evolving needs of modern homes. From the Flawless range of easy-clean upholstery to the light-controlling elegance of Eclipse blackout curtains and the poetic softness of Breeze sheers, the fabric line blends everyday utility with refined aesthetics. Collections like Garden of 1905 revives intricate Flemish botanical motifs from original 1905 gouache artworks, blending archival beauty with contemporary design. Raw Comfort, Twilight, and Petal Poetry bring archival beauty, tactile warmth, subtle luxury, and handcrafted charm into contemporary interiors. Complementing the fabrics, the new blinds category includes Forest Frames (wooden blinds), Layor (roller blinds), and Shades of Blinds, a versatile range offering blackout, translucent, and sheer options. Together, these curated offerings reinforce Nesterra’s commitment to mindful living, storytelling through design, and a seamless fusion of form and function.

Mrs Smita Joshi- Vice President, Nesterra, A Sutlej Brand (K K Birla Group) said “For me every collection launch seems like a celebration that’s personal. It reflects years of listening, observing, reflecting and perfecting the art of dressing the homes that feature the personality of our consumer.

Nesterra believes in building a community that’s inspired by the brand’s vision to create homes with their personal style. Our retail partners are the real storytellers of Nesterra. In our annual ritual of bringing a curation of new collections, Nesterra continues to make some bold design choices,a virtue that has remained integral to the brand. Nesterra 5.0 promises to be refreshing,purposeful and relevant. From easy care fabrics, blackout/energy conservation solutions,light filtering drapery to our first-ever blinds range, we have brought features combined with aesthetics. Every Nesterra fabric is woven with a sense of belonging into someone’s everyday life. It’s about showing how less is more.”

Each collection in the 5.0 launch is a reflection of Nesterra’s design evolution where aesthetics meet purpose, and every thread tells a story. With a strong focus on user-driven innovation and thoughtfully expanded categories, the new range reaffirms Nesterra’s vision of making every home a personal canvas of comfort, beauty, and functionality.

Discover the new era of home décor with Nesterra – where design begins with you, and ends in spaces that feel truly yours.

Arabian Gulf Properties Champions Visionary Urban Development in Support of Dubai 2040 Agenda

Dubai, UAE, 30 June 2025: Arabian Gulf Properties, one of the UAE’s forward-looking real estate developers, has reiterated its support for the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, affirming its dedication to driving responsible and community-focused development.

Under the leadership of Chairman Badar Rashid Alblooshi, the company continues to play an active role in the national dialogue around urban transformation, placing emphasis on the creation of integrated and inclusive communities that reflect the evolving aspirations of residents in the UAE.

As cities expand and population dynamics shift, the need for future-ready, human-centered development has never been greater. Arabian Gulf Properties recognizes this moment as a defining opportunity for the private sector to partner with government in translating strategic urban visions into tangible, high-quality living environments. The company has signaled its intent to contribute to this transformation through a development philosophy that prioritizes livability, smart design, and long-term value creation.

Commenting on the evolving role of developers, Badar Rashid Alblooshi said: “As developers, we have a responsibility to go beyond construction — we must help shape cities that are inclusive, resilient, and designed for the future. The Dubai 2040 vision is a call to all of us in the private sector to think boldly, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to the urban narrative of this country.”

Arabian Gulf Properties continues to explore new avenues for growth and collaboration that support dynamic, mixed-use destinations and urban experiences aligned with the UAE’s ambition to build globally competitive, innovation-led cities. With a growing portfolio and a commitment to quality, the company remains focused on developments that foster social cohesion, enhance quality of life, and reflect the UAE’s long-term strategic objectives.

As the country charts its next phase of economic and social growth, Arabian Gulf Properties stands ready to support national priorities through thoughtful, people-first development and sustained private sector leadership.

A Heartfelt Salute to Postmen and Penmanship in Das Paise Ka Postcard

Hyderabad, June 30, 2025: The book, Das Paise ka Postcard –  a tribute to an era when postcards were the only means of communication; authored by Capt. SN Ahmed, a Retired Army Officer, Author & Theatre enthusiast;  was released by the Chief Guest Mr Vinay Varma, Actor & Director and Guest of Honour Ms Sanjana Shah, Executive Director, BNI Hyderabad; today at The Plaza Hotel, Begumpet. “Das Paisa Ka Postcard” is a poignant tribute to that forgotten era when postcards were the only thread that tied hearts together. They were awaited with bated breath, read over and over, and held close as treasures of connection. 

In an era dominated by instant messaging and fleeting emojis, the new story, to be staged as a play titled “Das Paise Ka Postcard“ rekindles the warmth, nostalgia, and human connection once delivered by handwritten letters. Penned by Capt. Ahmed, this evocative theatrical work transports audiences back to the 1960s, when letters were lifelines, and the postman was more than just a government employee; he was family. 

Speaking on the occasion Mr Vinay Varma said, when Capt. Ahmed spoke about his book, it instantly transported me back to the days of postcards and handwritten letters. I was reminded of my grandmother, who would ask me to write letters to her brothers, simple notes asking about their well-being, filled with warmth, longing, and love. She would sign them at the end. That’s how I first learnt the art of letter writing, those moments remain some of my most cherished memories. Das Paise Ka Postcard is deeply relevant to our times. Unlike today’s quick WhatsApp messages, letters once bridged hearts across miles. Ironically, in this age of instant communication, emotional distances have only grown. In a world where book reading and theatre are fading passions, it takes rare courage to bring out a book like this. The title itself stirs forgotten emotions. While digitisation has made life faster, it has also diluted the depth of our connections. This book is a gentle reminder of what we’ve lost—and what we must try to hold on to. 

Ms Sanjana Shah said, Capt. Ahmed’s writing has a rare charm, it brings the past alive, allowing us to relive moments from an era we never actually experienced. His stories are not just nostalgic; they carry strong social messages that resonate deeply. This book is a delightful collection of stories, each layered with meaning. The narrative is so vivid, it feels ready to be adapted for the stage. I’ve always had a habit of posting letters to myself from wherever I travel. On a recent trip to Norway, I sent one to my Hyderabad address, it arrived two months later, but the joy of receiving it was timeless. In our family, we still write letters, it’s our way of staying rooted in the habit of writing. I remember when my father used to send letters in envelopes to his brothers, we’d sneak in a folded paper labelled “Confidential,” only to reveal a Mickey Mouse sketch inside. Small joys like these define a time we often long for something this book captures beautifully.

Capt. SN Ahmed said, the story shines a spotlight on a forgotten era when the arrival of a postcard was an emotional event, a bearer of love, longing, concern, and joy. Das Paise Ka Postcard reminds today’s “WhatsApp generation” of the tactile and heartfelt charm that letters held, a time when the “Daak Babu” on his squeaky bicycle was awaited with eager anticipation in every village.

Capt. Ahmed brings alive the characters of yesteryear, depicting how the postal system once served as the only bridge between people separated by vast distances. Letters from loved ones were read repeatedly, treasured, and preserved for life. They were symbols of hope, celebration, and comfort—unlike telegrams that spelled urgency or money orders that signalled good news. 

The play is the centrepiece of a powerful collection of four socially reflective plays compiled under the same title, Das Paise Ka Postcard. The anthology also includes:

• “SANDHYA Tum Kahaan Ho” – a poignant look at the harsh reality of Alzheimer’s in Indian families, inspired by Capt. Ahmed’s real-life encounters during his Army service.
• “Baasira Maata Ki Jai” – a satirical commentary on food wastage in modern households.
• Door Bell” – the moving story of a lonely woman and the emotional void of solitude. 

With his signature blend of humor and heart, Capt. Ahmed masterfully weaves social commentary into each narrative, encouraging the audience to reflect on their own roles in today’s fast-paced, digitally overwhelmed society. 

“Das Paise Ka Postcard” is not just a play—it is an ode to India’s brave Defence personnel, for whom letters from home serve as emotional fuel on the frontlines. The stories within this book are a salute to those who stand guard at our borders, drawing strength from every word written in love and longing. 

As India races ahead into the future, this book and play serve as a gentle reminder of the soul-stirring simplicity of the past, and the timeless value of human connection. 

Flt Lt Kalimullah, father of Capt. Ahmed; Col Saxena; Col Sandeep Kumar (Retd); Col QR Haidri; Col Sendhil; Col Ali Dobey; Col Sesha Sai, Mr Rajiv, Ms Surabhi Dutt, Mr Rajeen, Ms Rajshree; family, friends, theatre enthusiasts, among others graced the occasion. 

Livlong’s FY25 Revenue Hits ₹191.6 Crore, Backed by Expanding Presence in Smaller Cities

Mumbai, 30 June, 2025:  Livlong, one of India’s fastest-growing healthtech and Insurtech platforms, has reported a revenue of ₹191.6 crore in FY 2024-25, marking a 17.1% year-on-year growth over ₹163.6 crore in FY 2023-24. The platform continues its upward momentum, building on its revenue surge last fiscal year.

The company attributes this growth to its expanding ecosystem through increased penetration of affordable OPD and Health Insurance Products in Tier – II & III markets through various channels like Retail Distribution, Corporate OPD & Wellness, Third Party Partners to name a few. 

“FY25 has been a year of penetration and consolidation. Crossing ₹191.6 crore in revenue reaffirms our market leadership in technology-enabled healthcare,” said Gaurav Dubey, Founder & CEO, Livlong. “Now with our Corporate Agency licensing, we are committed to delivering value-based personalized insurance solutions and healthcare solutions to both individuals and enterprises across India.” 

Livlong also launched an SME-focused vertical in early FY25 and has already partnered with over 450 enterprises in Tier–II markets, offering bundled health insurance and OPD services tailored to MSMEs. This move has opened up a new channel for customer acquisition, creating long-term value through B2B2C models while fulfilling a critical gap in India’s employer-led healthcare system in underserved markets.

As a vertically integrated platform operating at the intersection of healthtech and Insurtech. Livlong has stayed true to its value proposition of providing one-stop solution for affordable insurance cover & healthcare. 

Livlong is also ramping up investments in elder care, including chronic care support and remote monitoring programs tailored for India’s ageing population.

“Our FY25 performance validates the strength of our multi-vertical strategy. We remain focused on building a scalable, tech-first health ecosystem that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in value-based care,” Dubey added.

Livlong remains confident in achieving its target of doubling revenue by FY27, backed by multi-channel distribution, deeper market penetration, and product-led growth.