StarCruises and Dream Cruises Make a Grand Return
Rutuparna Rath business
StarCruises and Dream Cruises Make a Grand Return

28 February 2025  – Resorts World Cruises is proud and excited to announce the grand return of two of Asia’s most iconic and legendary cruise brands – StarCruises (a refreshed take on the previous Star Cruises brand) and Dream Cruises. The Resorts World Cruises brand was used temporarily to restart cruising in Asia post Covid, and will be reverting to its original roots, which span over the last 30 years. The brand transition period will take approximately 3 months with the renewed ambition to reinforce StarCruises and Dream Cruises as pioneers of the Asian and global cruising industry.

Launched in June 2022, Resorts World Cruises has successfully welcomed close to 2 million passengers to date, setting the foundation for this momentous transformation. Now, as part of this historic revival, our fleet will transition under both iconic brands:-

  • The Resorts World One cruise ship will be renamed Star Navigator, joining Star Voyager under the StarCruises banner.
  • Genting Dream will continue under the Dream Cruises

The transformation goes beyond a name change, as it is a declaration of excellence, innovation, and commitment to redefining cruising in Asia with unique, refreshed cruising experiences tailored to different markets.

StarCruises 

With a rich legacy of over 30 years, the original Star Cruises name will be revitalized as StarCruises, bringing a modern, vibrant, and innovative approach that will deliver a lifestyle- driven cruising experience to new generations across the region. The refreshed StarCruises brand represents:-

  • Affordable yet premium lifestyle
  • Vibrant onboard entertainment, world-class dining and themed
  • Mid-sized ships (about 2,000-passengers) for a more intimate and accessible
  • Short port intensive itineraries for domestic and Fly-Cruise

Star Navigator will begin four 4-night sailings from Singapore on 7 March 2025 to Krabi and Penang, before being deployed to Taiwan for an exclusive 8-month operational period starting 28 March. During this eight month, she will offer diverse itineraries that connect Taiwan’s scenic coastlines with various destinations in Japan and South Korea, allowing guests to experience cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant summer seascapes, and stunning autumn foliage. Star Voyager will set sail on 26 March 2025, from multiple seasonal homeports in Singapore, Jakarta, Melaka, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh, with more cities to be added.

Dream Cruises 

Dream Cruises will introduce a new era of luxury cruising, tailored for travellers seeking world- class service, premium amenities, and unparalleled elegance. Dream Cruises represents:

  • A sophisticated and indulgent onboard
  • Spacious ships with over 3,000-passenger
  • Vibrant onboard entertainment, world-class dining and themed
  • Luxury Fly-Cruise itineraries for the modern explorer

Genting Dream, the flagship of Dream Cruises, will be homeported in Singapore all year round, offering itineraries to Malaysia and Thailand, perfect for travellers who seek a seamless combination of a Singapore city stay and an opulent cruise escape to the region.

By clearly differentiating StarCruises and Dream Cruises, the brands will cater to distinct segments while reinforcing their leadership in the Asian cruise industry. This transition marks an exciting step forward, reflecting the brands’ commitments to delivering exceptional world- class cruise experiences that cater to a diverse range of travellers.

Adani Wilmar Joins Akshaya Patra to Boost Mid-Day Meals in Ahmedabad
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Adani Wilmar Joins Akshaya Patra to Boost Mid-Day Meals in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, 28th February 2025: Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL), one of India’s largest food and FMCG companies, aims to touch the lives of every Indian, enabling them to live life fully and making the country stronger, healthier, and more productive. This mission began with Fortune SuPoshan, a flagship CSR project, addressing malnutrition and anemia. In a bid to extent the mission further, the company has collaborated with the Akshaya Patra Foundation to support its Mid-Day Meal Program to provide nutritious meals to underprivileged school children in Ahmedabad.

As part of this collaboration, six new delivery vans have been introduced to ensure the seamless distribution of nutritious meals to schoolchildren. The flag-off ceremony for these vans took place in Ahmedabad, attended by key representatives from Adani Wilmar and The Akshaya Patra Foundation. This initiative reinforces the commitment shown by the FMCG company to improve food accessibility and fostering a healthier future for children across the country.

Commenting on this initiative, Mr. Angshu Mallick, MD & CEO of Adani Wilmar, said, “We are proud to deepen our collaboration with The Akshaya Patra Foundation in their mission to combat child hunger through the Mid-Day Meal Program. At Adani Wilmar, we believe that proper nutrition is fundamental to education and a brighter future. These delivery vans will ensure that meals reach children seamlessly, reinforcing our commitment to nourishing young minds and supporting their growth.”

The Akshaya Patra Foundation, headquartered in Bengaluru, operates the Mid-Day Meal Program across 24,000 government and government-aided schools in 16 states and two union territories, serving over 2.1 million children daily.

Sri Raya Rama Dasa, Vice President of The Akshaya Patra Foundation, Gujarat, expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “We are incredibly thankful to Adani Wilmar for their unwavering support in ensuring seamless distribution of meals to children. These vans are crucial in helping us reach more children efficiently, strengthening our shared vision of eradicating classroom hunger.”

Last year, Adani Wilmar further strengthened this commitment by donating three vans and providing meals for 2,000 children for one year.

Adani Wilmar has been actively involved in social impact initiatives through its CSR projects, particularly Fortune SuPoshan. This continued partnership with The Akshaya Patra Foundation aligns with the company’s broader vision of creating a healthier, well-nourished, and educated generation.

Keysight Unveils Fast, Compact Test Instruments for RF and Microwave
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Keysight Unveils Fast, Compact Test Instruments for RF and Microwave

February 28, 2025, INDIA – Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) has expanded its radio frequency (RF) and microwave instrument portfolio with six new analog signal generators, two vector signal generators, eight RF synthesizers, and three signal source analyzers. These new solutions provide RF engineers with compact tools, in single channel and multi-channel platforms, for component and device characterization at frequencies up to 54 GHz.

Signal generators and RF synthesizers are essential tools that RF engineers rely on routinely to test components, devices, and systems in areas such as radar and defense electronics, wireless communication systems, consumer electronics, and more. Signal source analyzers (SSA) help RF engineers to accurately characterize phase noise, jitter, and frequency stability in oscillators, synthesizers, and signal sources and active components across radar systems, wireless networks, high-speed computing, and optical communications. These analyzers are essential for ensuring signal purity, minimizing interference, and optimizing performance in critical RF and digital applications.

Keysight’s new signal generators provide performance, with low phase noise, good spectral purity, and fast switching speed, combined with multi-channel phase coherent options. The new portfolio of RF synthesizers provide pure and fast signals, with scaled down features in even more compact and cost-effective form factors for integration and manufacturing applications.

The new Keysight compact portfolio offers several key advantages:

  • Portability: Compact size, lower weight, and power consumption versus other instruments in their class for easy transport, efficient use in lab.
  • Rapid testing: Fast switching speed (down to 3 µs) can accelerate testing, mimic fast moving signals (e.g. RADAR), and boost throughput with multi-channel options.
  • Low phase noise: Oven-controlled crystal oscillator stabilized signal (e.g. AP5021A phase noise -145 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz, 10 kHz offset, typical) for pure signals.
  • Scalable channel count: Single channel options and multi-channel options with phase coherency; units can be linked together for multi-instrument phase coherency.
  • Modulation capabilities combined with signal purity, fast switching and multi-channel capability: Supports amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, phase modulation, pulse modulation, pulse train, frequency chirps along with 400 MHz vector modulation.
  • Fully Integrated SSA’s: Cross-correlation system with multi-programmable low noise DC supplies.
  • Optimized user interface: Features an LCD touch screen and/or remote desktop PC software making it easy to operate.

Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager, Keysight High Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence, said: “These new signal generators, frequency synthesizers, and signal source analyzers provide RF engineers a number of new test tools that provide an exciting combination of technical performance, compact form factors, and cost-effectiveness. The generators provide excellent signal purity, fast switching, multi-channel phase coherency, and more, while the synthesizers offer pure and fast signal creation with targeted feature sets and reduced size for system integrators and manufacturers. The signal source analyzers support accurate characterization of important system components such as oscillators. We are excited about the value that these new platforms will bring to engineers working in aerospace/defense, wireless communications, quantum computing, consumer electronics, education, and other applications.”

2 in 5 Children in India Have Unhealthy BMI, Sportz Village Survey Finds
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2 in 5 Children in India Have Unhealthy BMI, Sportz Village Survey Finds

India, 28th February 2025: Sportz Village’s 13th Annual Health Survey (AHS) has revealed alarming gaps in the fitness and well-being of school-going children across India.

Conducted annually since 2010, the survey aims to analyze and evaluate the health and fitness levels of children in schools across India.

The 13th edition of the survey, powered by EduSports, assessed 1,16,650 children aged 7 to 17 years across 85 locations, highlighting the urgent need for structured physical education programs in schools.

The EAST REGION has emerged with the second-best performance showcasing an overall fitness in a total of 56.40% of children, showing notable strengths in Upper body strength (54%), Lower body strength (46%), and Flexibility (77%).

The survey highlights that a higher percentage of children from the NORTH REGION have shown extremely poor performance, recording the lowest percentages in three out of seven fitness parameters. The region performed the weakest in Lower body strength (35%), Abdominal strength (81%), and Anaerobic capacity (58%), underscoring significant areas for improvement in these key fitness indicators.

The performance of children from the SOUTH REGION has been a mixed bag. A higher percentage of children have performed well in the parameters of BMI (60.12%), Aerobic capacity (31%), Anaerobic capacity (62%), and Abdominal strength (87%), while showing areas of improvement in Upper body strength and Flexibility.

WEST REGION has performed the best when compared to all other regions with higher percentage of children performing exceptionally well in the parameters of Upper body strength (58%) Lower body strength (60%), Anaerobic capacity (81%), Abdominal strength (93%), Aerobic capacity (52%) & Flexibility (81%).

Key findings of the survey denote:

  • 2 in 5 children have an unhealthy BMI.
  • 3 in 5 children lack adequate Lower body strength.
  • 1 in 3 children have insufficient Flexibility.
  • 3 in 5 children do not meet the required Aerobic capacity.
  • 1 in 5 children have inadequate Abdominal or core strength.
  • 2 in 5 children lack sufficient Anaerobic capacity.
  • 3 in 5 children do not have adequate Upper body strength.
  • A higher proportion of girls (62.23%) maintain a healthy BMI compared to boys (57.09%).
  • Girls outperformed boys in Flexibility, Abdominal strength, Anaerobic capacity, and Upper body strength, whereas boys performed well in the parameters of Aerobic capacity and Lower body strength

AHS 2025 key findings

Moreover, a higher percentage of children in private schools have better Upper body strength levels (47%), compared to the children from government schools (37%) as well as Abdominal strength levels (87%) compared to the children in government schools (84%). In comparison, a higher percentage of children from government schools have fared better in BMI (61.64%), Lower body strength (48%), Aerobic capacity (37%), Anaerobic capacity (75%) & Flexibility (75%), demonstrating better overall fitness in children from the latter.
The survey also highlights the positive correlation between the frequency of P.E. classes and overall fitness levels. It found that children who attend more than two P.E. periods per week have better BMI levels, upper body strength and flexibility compared to those with fewer P.E. classes, reinforcing the importance of structured sports programs in schools.

Impact of frequency of P.E. classes on overall fitness

Saumil Majmudar, Co-Founder, CEO & Managing Director, Sportz Village, emphasized the importance of balancing academics and sports, stating: “Children naturally love to play, yet sports often take a backseat to academics. The 13th AHS findings highlight the urgent need to strike a balance between the two. School leaders must prioritize investments in physical education and sports curricula—not just for the long-term health and well-being of children, but to foster a strong sporting culture that can propel India toward excellence on the global stage.”

Parminder Gill, Co-Founder & Head of Foundation, Sportz Village, highlighted the need for policy support and CSR-backed initiatives, adding: “The improved fitness levels among government school children is encouraging, with far-reaching benefits. Sports not only enhance academic performance but also strengthen social-emotional skills, foster inclusion, and promote gender equity. To build on this progress, it is essential to implement strong policies and allocate resources that ensure access to high-quality sports programs, supported by corporates, CSR initiatives, philanthropists, and the government.”

Habitat for Humanity India, Standard Chartered Provide Livelihoods to 1,104 Women
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Habitat for Humanity India, Standard Chartered Provide Livelihoods to 1,104 Women

Mumbai, 28th February 2025: Leading housing non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity India in partnership with Standard Chartered Bank has culminated a groundbreaking initiative to empower women in rural Maharashtra and Odisha by promoting economic independence through livelihood and entrepreneurship development. The initiative – known as ‘Empowering Women and Improving Life through Livelihood Interventions’ – has supported 1104 women in the second phase by offering them essential skills, financial support, and access to markets.

In the first phase of the project, 969 women from 85 self-help groups (SHGs) in Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Odisha were provided with livelihood opportunities, helping them achieve greater financial independence.

The second phase focused on strengthening 96 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Dharashiv (formerly Osmanabad) and Beed districts of Maharashtra as well as Dhenkanal and Puri districts of Odisha. Through targeted capacity-building programmes, technical training and seed funding, SHGs have been empowered to start and scale micro-businesses in sectors such as home-based crafts, agriculture and agro-allied activities. The project also provided continuous support to women entrepreneurs through mentorship, financial literacy, bookkeeping training and awareness sessions on menstrual hygiene management.

“Zhanshi Chi Rani Ekal Mahila Bachat Gat is a Self-Help Group (SHG) established by single women, for single women. I knew nothing about running an enterprise, let alone handling a dal mill business. The unity of fellow women from our group, in-depth training and handholding support we received from Habitat for Humanity India helped me regain my confidence. It has given us not only a means of livelihood but also the strength to live with dignity. Nothing is impossible when women come together”, said Vidya More, a Habitat homeowner who set up a dal mill in collaboration with members of her SHG.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India, said, “At Habitat for Humanity India, we believe that empowering women is fundamental to building resilient and thriving communities. By equipping women with the skills, resources, and confidence that enables them to lead businesses, this partnership with Standard Chartered Bank is not only transforming lives but also creating a ripple effect of economic independence in rural Maharashtra and Odisha. Some of these women are Habitat homeowners. They are now entrepreneurs and change-makers, paving the way for stronger, more self-reliant communities. Their success stories are a testament to the power of collective action and the potential that lies within each of them.”

“At Standard Chartered Bank, we believe in fostering inclusive growth by empowering women to lead economically independent lives. Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity India reflects this commitment as we work together to equip women, many of whom are Habitat homeowners, with the skills and resources needed to build sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, we are not only supporting women in scaling their businesses but also creating a lasting impact on their families and communities. We are proud to stand with these remarkable women as they unlock new opportunities, drive local economies, and shape a brighter future for themselves and future generations,” said Ms. Karuna Bhatia, Head of Sustainability, India, Standard Chartered Bank.

Micro-businesses initiated by SHGs include home-based enterprises such as applique art, agarbatti (incense sticks) making, bamboo and brass crafts; agriculture-based activities such as aquaculture, floriculture, mushroom, vegetable cultivation and agro-allied initiatives like dairy, goat rearing and poultry farming.

In Maharashtra, 36 SHGs comprising 456 women have been supported to establish micro-enterprises at the grassroot level. In Odisha, 60 SHGs comprising 648 women have been supported to start their micro-enterprises.

Golden Abodes Expands with Premium Residences in Pune
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Golden Abodes Expands with Premium Residences in Pune

Pune: Golden Abodes, a leading name in luxury real estate, has announced its latest expansion in Pune, reaffirming its commitment to premium residential and commercial developments. Known for delivering high-quality projects, the company aims to redefine modern living and business spaces in the city.

The new project, strategically located in one of Pune’s prime areas, offers seamless connectivity to hospitals, educational institutions, and shopping centers. Blending luxury, sustainability, and contemporary design, this development promises an unparalleled living experience, setting a new benchmark in urban living.

Speaking about the expansion, Gaurav Mittal, Founder at Golden Abodes, said, “Our latest expansion in Pune reflects Golden Abodes’ vision of redefining luxury living with innovation and sustainability at its core. This project is designed to offer an unparalleled lifestyle, seamlessly integrating convenience, modern aesthetics, and eco-conscious elements. As we move forward, our focus remains on crafting premium residential and commercial spaces that elevate urban living. Pune marks another milestone in our journey, and we are committed to shaping the future of real estate with excellence and forward-thinking design.”

Golden Abodes has successfully delivered multiple landmark projects, including Golden Fortune Wakad, Golden Fortune Moshi, Shine City, Genesis, and Anantam Signature, all of which have received strong market appreciation. The upcoming project offers a variety of residential options, catering to homebuyers looking for spacious and modern living spaces.

The real estate market in Pune continues to thrive, with increasing demand for premium residences. Golden Abodes’ latest expansion is set to contribute to this growth by offering high-end, thoughtfully designed homes that meet the aspirations of discerning buyers.

Amar Shah , Co Founder at Golden Abodes, “Pune has long been a preferred destination for real estate investment, with homebuyers seeing premium flats as both a secure asset and a symbol of modern living. At Golden Abodes, we understand this growing demand and are committed to delivering world-class residential and commercial spaces that blend luxury, sustainability, and convenience. Our latest expansion in Pune reflects our dedication to shaping the city’s skyline while offering investors and homeowners an opportunity to own a piece of premium real estate.”

Golden Abodes remains committed to its philosophy of blending luxury with sustainability, ensuring that each development harmonizes with its surroundings while offering world-class amenities.

Competition Law Training: Risks and Compliance Session
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Competition Law Training: Risks and Compliance Session

February 28, 2025 – The Law & Justice Committee of the PHDCCI organized a comprehensive training session titled Training on Competition Law: Risks and Compliance at PHD House, New Delhi. The event brought together legal professionals, corporate executives, and compliance officers to deepen their understanding of competition law, its compliance requirements, and the latest developments in the field.

The training session was led by Ms. Charanya Lakshmikumaran, Chair of the Law & Justice Committee PHDCCI, and Ms. Neelambera Sandeepan, Partner at Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan Attorneys. Both experts shared their extensive knowledge and practical insights into the complexities of competition law, helping participants navigate the evolving regulatory landscape with confidence.

The session emphasized critical compliance requirements under competition law, emerging trends, and best practices to mitigate risks. Participants gained a clear understanding of how to align their business practices with regulatory expectations. To enhance practical understanding, the trainers presented real-life case studies, offering participants an in-depth perspective on the application of competition law in various scenarios. These case studies provided valuable lessons on identifying and addressing potential legal risks. The training was highly interactive, allowing participants to engage in meaningful discussions, ask questions, and clarify their doubts. This collaborative approach ensured that attendees could apply the knowledge gained to their respective organizations effectively. The event concluded with Ms. Parul Tuli, Co-Chair of the Law & Justice Committee PHDCCI, delivering the closing remarks. She extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to the trainers, participants, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the session.

The Law & Justice Committee PHDCCI is committed to promoting awareness and compliance with competition law in India. Through initiatives like this training session, the Committee aims to foster a fair and competitive market environment, ensuring that businesses operate within the framework of the law while contributing to economic growth.

This training session is part of PHDCCI’s ongoing efforts to empower professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of competition law. By equipping participants with practical insights and actionable strategies, the Committee continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a compliant and competitive business ecosystem.

Bengaluru Open Attracts 22 Sponsors for ATP 125 Challenger Edition
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Bengaluru Open Attracts 22 Sponsors for ATP 125 Challenger Edition

Bengaluru, February 28, 2025: DafaNews Bengaluru Open 2025, India’s highest-tier ATP Challenger event, has strengthened its corporate support with an impressive lineup of 22 sponsors and 12 partners. The tournament, currently underway from February 24 to March 2 at the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA), continues to attract significant business interest, reinforcing its position as a premier international tennis event.

The widespread corporate engagement highlights the growing stature of this ATP 125 Challenger tournament within both the Indian sports ecosystem and the global tennis circuit.

The Karnataka Tourism and ACT Fibernet have strengthened their association as Associate Sponsors, stepping up compared to last year for the event, and pledging their strong support for the growth along with Title Sponsor DafaNews who have returned for the third time, reaffirming their commitment towards elevating tennis in India.

Meanwhile, JSW, Megha Engineering & Infrastructure Ltd, Prestige, Union Bank of India, Indian Bank and Bisleri have joined as Principle Sponsors, adding to the tournament’s prestige while expanding their reach and visibility among the nation’s diverse sports audiences.

Mr Maheshwar Rao IAS, Hon. Secretary KSLTA and the Organising Committee said, “The Bengaluru Open has evolved significantly since its inception in 2015, and the continued support from our esteemed sponsors and partners has been instrumental in its growth. Their investment enables us to enhance infrastructure, attract top-tier talent, and deliver a world-class sporting experience. This strong corporate backing not only elevates the tournament’s stature on the global tennis calendar but also reinforces Bengaluru’s position as a key hub for professional tennis in India. We deeply value their commitment to fostering the sport’s growth and expanding its footprint across Karnataka and beyond.”

The tournament will have a strong Indian representation with Ramkumar Ramanathan, SD Prajwal Dev, Karan Singh, and teenager Manas Dhamne in action at the Bengaluru Open 2025 singles event. Meanwhile, India will also have vehement representations in the doubles event–a category dominated by Indians across the previous eight editions–with Anirudh Chandrasekar and Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha leading the charge with their respective partners.

Sunil Yajaman, Tournament Director & Hon. Joint Secretary, KSLTA, highlighted the tournament’s growth trajectory, stating, “the Bengaluru Open has steadily evolved into a marquee event on the ATP Challenger Tour, and securing ATP Challenger 125 status this year marks a significant milestone in our journey. This elevation reflects the tournament’s growing stature and the confidence of both the ATP and our corporate partners in its potential. The strong sponsor backing we have received not only enhances the tournament’s scale and reach but also aligns with our long-term vision of further elevating its status—potentially towards an ATP 250 event in the future.

Furthermore, Ultratech Cement, Bangalore Development Authority, Karnataka Soap & Detergent Ltd, MSIL, Greaves Mobility, Unboxing BLR Foundation, SMIORE, Vedanta Ltd, Zuari Infraworld, Oil India Ltd, Bank of India, and KSMCL have also extended their support to Bengaluru Open as Co-Sponsors, playing an important role in the sport’s reach within the State of Karnataka.

Additionally, the tournament has also onboarded twelve partners for the season, each contributing to key operational areas, including Advaith Hyundai (Official Transport Partner), Sparsh Hospital (Medical Partner), ACT Fibernet (Internet Partner), Pepsi Co (Beverages Partner), KMF (Good Life Partner), Enerzal (Energy Drink Partner), Head (Equipment Partner), WM Global (Hydrational Partner), Unibic (Snacks Partner), Greaves Electric Mobility Ltd (EV Partner), Bangalore International Airport Ltd and KPB Family Trust.

Sanjay Agarwal is CII Rajasthan Chairman Rajneesh Bhandari Vice Chairman
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Sanjay Agarwal is CII Rajasthan Chairman Rajneesh Bhandari Vice Chairman

Jaipur, 28th February 2025: Mr.Sanjay Agarwal and Mr.Rajneesh Bhandari have been elected as Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Rajasthan for the year 2025 -26.

Mr.Sanjay Agarwal is the Founder, MD, and CEO of AU Small Finance Bank. As a first-generation entrepreneur and a Chartered Accountant with a merit rank, he founded AU Financiers in 1996, addressing the financial needs of small entrepreneurs and underserved individuals in rural and semi-urban areas. In 2017, he took a groundbreaking step by founding AU Small Finance Bank, which has since emerged as India’s largest small finance bank, setting new benchmarks in financial services and inclusivity.

Under his leadership, AU Small Finance Bank is now the only small finance bank that meets the RBI guidelines to file an application for a Universal Bank license. AU SFB’s reach now includes over 2,400 banking touchpoints, serving more than 1.12 crore customers and employing apx 48,000 individuals across 21 states and 4 Union Territories, underscoring its steady growth and influence in the financial sector.

Mr.Agarwal is not only a banking pioneer but also a passionate cricketer, having represented Rajasthan in the Under-19 team in 1990. His exemplary leadership has also resulted in AU SFB being bestowed with various awards and recognitions, such as ‘India’s Leading Small Finance Bank’ at BFSI & Fintech Summit 2024 by Dun & Bradstreet, ‘Best Small Finance Bank’ at the Mint BFSI Awards 2023, ‘Company with Great Managers 2023 Award’, ‘Financial Inclusion Award’ at the FICO Decision Awards 2024, ET Human Capital Awards 2024 in the category ‘Excellence in Cultivating a Culture of Trust and High Performance,’ and Top 50 Best Place to Work by Great Place to Work 2024 etc.

Mr Rajneesh Bhandari is Managing Director, Neuroequilibrium Diagnostic Systems Pvt Ltd. He is an alumnus of IIT Delhi, he has successfully founded ventures across diverse sectors, including Telecommunication Infra services, Engineering Materials, and Medical technologies. He holds seven US patents and thirteen Indian patents, underlining his innovation-driven approach. His latest venture, NeuroEquilibrium, is the world’s largest chain of specialty clinics for vertigo, dizziness, and balance disorder, with 200 clinics in 13 countries. It impacts thousands of patients worldwide through AI-powered remote diagnosis.

Mr Bhandari also serves on various committees and boards. He invests in and mentors startups and is an active angel investor. He is also an Independent Director at Flair Pens Ltd, India’s largest pen manufacturer. Rajneesh actively contributes to key government and industry committees on startups, healthcare, and innovation. Rajneesh has been a member of the CII Rajasthan State Council and CII Northern Region Committee on Healthcare.

OBPP Association and SEBI Unveil Bond Central with Industry Partners
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OBPP Association and SEBI Unveil Bond Central with Industry Partners

Mumbai, February 28, 2025 – The Online Bond Platform Providers Association of India , in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), NSE, BSE, NSDL, CDSL, announced the launch of Bond Central  — a pioneering initiative aimed at transforming India’s corporate bond market by improving accessibility, transparency, and retail investor participation.

Since the launch of the OBPP platform, there has been a 327% growth in monthly transactions in Corporate Bonds and SDIs in the last 1 year. (Source: BSE)

Bond Central is designed to further bridge the information gap in the corporate bond market, empowering investors with discovery, and comprehensive educational resources. The initiative aligns with SEBI’s ongoing efforts to deepen India’s corporate bond markets and provide retail investors with stable investment options.

Bond Central offers several key features to enhance the corporate bond investment experience. It provides a comprehensive bond listing, offering a unified view of corporate bonds across exchanges and issuers, ensuring seamless discovery and comparison. Retail investors can compare corporate bond prices with Government Securities (G-Secs) and other fixed-income indices, enabling better decision-making.

The platform also prioritizes retail investor-centric information by granting access to detailed risk assessments, bond documents, and disclosures, helping investors evaluate opportunities effectively. Additionally, Bond Central enhances transparency by standardizing corporate bond-related data, reducing information asymmetry, and improving trust in the fixed-income market.

Industry Leaders Welcome Bond Central

Mrs Aditi Mittal, Chairperson OBPP Association and Co-Founder of IndiaBonds, stated:

“For India’s corporate bond market to reach its full potential, investors need clarity, confidence, and accessibility—Bond Central delivers on all three fronts. By offering a consolidated platform with investor-friendly features, we are ensuring that Corporate Bonds and SDIs become as easy to invest in as any other asset class.”

Speaking on the launch,

Mr Aashish Jindal, Director of OBPP and Co-founder of Grip Invest, mentioned:

“Bond Central is a transformative step in growing corporate bond investments in India. By leveraging technology to integrate data, price, comparisons, and risk insights, we are creating a data-driven, transparent ecosystem that empowers investors.”

Driving Growth & Market Participation

Bond Central is expected to enhance market infrastructure, increase retail participation in corporate bonds market, and promote a balanced investment ecosystem, supporting SEBI’s vision of Bonds for Viksit Bharat.