Business

SBI Life Insurance, one of India’s most trusted private life insurers, has successfully concluded the Grand Finale of ‘IdeationX 2.0’, a national platform conceptualised to find innovative solutions for Indian life insurance industry. Pritish Wadhwa, Stuti Rajesh Shah, Eshan Sharma, second-year management students, from S. P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR), Mumbai, emerged as the winners of IdeationX 2.0. The initiative drew participation from 31,000+ students from India’s top 100 B-schools, bringing together the country’s brightest minds to co-create ideas that could redefine the future of life insurance. Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic Gold Medalist, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, inspiring students with his reflections on focus, persevera...

India’s exports to the United States have declined for the fourth consecutive month across nearly all sectors, according to a recent analysis by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). The report highlighted that between May and September 2025, India’s exports to its largest trading partner fell sharply by 37.5%, dropping from $8.8 billion to $5.5 billion. The decline is largely attributed to the steep US tariffs imposed earlier this year, which now total 50% for Indian goods, following an initial 10% levy in April, a rise to 25% in August, and further escalation to 50% later that month. These tariffs were partly introduced as a response to India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil. The sectors hit hardest were those that previously enjoyed zero tariffs. Exports in this catego...

After keeping car enthusiasts eager for nearly a year, Tata has unveiled the official teaser for the highly anticipated Sierra SUV. The vehicle, first showcased at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, revives the iconic Sierra nameplate in India. The teaser confirms that the production model closely resembles the Expo version. Tata has set November 25 as the official launch date for the Sierra in India. Engine options are expected to include a 2.0-liter diesel unit from the Tata Harrier, a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, and a 1.5-liter turbo petrol variant, with plans for an electric version also underway. The new Sierra departs significantly from the original 2000s model, embracing Tata’s contemporary design language. It features all-LED lighting, including front headlights an...

The Byatikram Group, in collaboration with The Times of India and Rabindranath Tagore Club, Laban, is gearing up to host the second edition of “Remembering the Maestro – S.D. Burman”, honouring the musical legend Sachin Dev Burman. The tribute evening will be held on November 9 at 5 PM at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong. The announcement was made during a press meet at Shillong Press Club in the presence of Dr. Saumen Bharatiya, Patron-in-Chief, Byatikram Group, and Pankaj Deb, President, Rabindranath Tagore Club, along with artists and organisers. As a symbolic tribute to S.D. Burman’s 69-year legacy, a 69-member chorus from Bahaar Group will perform. Meghalaya Governor Shri Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar will attend as Chief Guest. A special highlight will be the “S.D. Burman Memor...

Consumers across the Northeast are set to benefit from easier access to advanced medical care as Medanta has begun construction of its new 400+ bed super-speciality hospital in Guwahati. The Bhoomi Poojan ceremony, held on October 31, was attended by Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Medanta Chairman & Managing Director Dr. Naresh Trehan, and Group CEO Pankaj Sahni, marking a major step toward strengthening healthcare options in the region. Located at Sarusajai Industrial Estate along NH-27, the ₹500-crore facility will offer world-class services including advanced transplant programs, robotic surgery, cardiac and neuro care, oncology, trauma and emergency care, and full diagnostics and preventive health check-ups. The project is expected to create 5,000–7,000 direct an...

For millions across the Northeast who often travel hundreds of kilometres for advanced medical care, relief is finally on the horizon. Global Health Limited (Medanta), one of India’s leading private multi-specialty healthcare providers, has announced the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony for its 400-bed super-specialty hospital at Sarusajai Industrial Estate, Guwahati, on October 31, 2025. The event will be graced by Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director, and Mr. Pankaj Sahni, Group CEO, Medanta. The upcoming facility will deliver world-class tertiary and quaternary care, including robotic surgeries, transplant programs, and advanced diagnostics. “Medanta’s entry into the Northeast aims to bridge the healthcare gap and make high...

The hill city of Shillong came alive on October 25 as international pop star Mohombi made his India debut at Lariti, Mawkasiang, delivering a powerful performance that left the crowd spellbound. Organized by Courtyard by Marriott Shillong in collaboration with Meghalaya Tourism and Meghalayan Age, the concert drew nearly 3,500 music lovers, transforming the scenic venue into a global stage of rhythm and celebration. Known for his chart-toppers “Bumpy Ride” and “Coconut Tree”, the Swedish-Congolese artist enthralled the audience with his unique Afro-pop and dance beats. The event also showcased Meghalaya’s local talents — Jessie Lyngdoh, Gary Daniel, Quills, Sev, and Meban — who set the stage with vibrant performances before Mohombi took over with his electrifying act. Speaking after th...

Bata India Ltd’s performance in the September quarter (Q2FY26) disappointed investors, dragging its shares down 4% on Tuesday as the results fell short on multiple fronts. The footwear company struggled with growth throughout the quarter, and with costs remaining elevated, it failed to meet expectations across key metrics. Revenue declined 4% year-on-year to ₹801 crore, marking the weakest showing in the last ten quarters, compared with estimates of around ₹860 crore by JM Financial Institutional Securities and Motilal Oswal Financial Services. Bata cited early transmission of GST benefits to consumers, aimed at clearing inventory ahead of official rate cuts, as one factor. Deferred purchases from channel partners and consumers following GST rationalization, along with a temporary disr...

The inauguration of the new Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) Hub at Mizoram University by Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, in partnership with Mizoram University and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), represents a significant step in leveraging technology for rural economic development. The facility provides dedicated laboratories, training spaces, and innovation centers designed to address the state’s unique geographical and socio-economic challenges. Since its inception two years ago, the hub has benefited over 9,000 residents, with more than 70% of beneficiaries being women. Programs in food processing, bamboo craft innovation, digital literacy, and health awareness have fostered grassroots entrepreneurship and self-reliance. By integrating technologies from Amrita...

Vodafone Idea shares surged up to 9.5% on October 27 after the Centre informed the Supreme Court that it was open to reconsidering the company’s plea in the adjusted gross revenue (AGR) case. The apex court, led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai with Justices K. Vinod Chandran and Vipul M. Pancholi, allowed the government to review the issue, stating there was “no reason” to prevent it. Vodafone Idea shares hit a one-year high of ₹10.57 on the NSE before profit booking trimmed gains, with the stock up 1.5% at 1:10 p.m. The Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, said the Centre now holds 49% equity in Vodafone Idea and serves nearly 20 crore customers, justifying its willingness to revisit the matter. The bench observed that the government’s involvement warranted reconsideration. Following this,...