In a remarkable medical milestone for Puducherry, East Coast Hospitals has successfully performed what is believed to be the youngest kidney transplant carried out in the region so far, completely free of cost.
 

Youngest Free Kidney Transplant recipient in Puducherry
 

This achievement was made possible with the support of the Dr. Blue India Foundation and further strengthens East Coast Hospitals’ reputation as the private hospital in Puducherry that has performed the highest number of ethical, legally compliant, and fully transparent kidney transplants.
 

Eleven-year-old Guruprasad’s story is one of quiet resilience. Raised along with his two siblings by his mother—who herself lives with significant medical disabilities—the family has been surviving on her modest disability pension, facing life’s challenges with courage and determination. Their journey took a difficult turn when Guruprasad was diagnosed with severe kidney failure, bringing immense emotional and financial strain.
 

In a powerful act of maternal love, his mother chose to donate her kidney to save her son’s life.
 

The transplant was successfully performed at East Coast Hospitals under the guidance of Dr. N. Murugesan, a distinguished nephrologist who was part of the medical team that accompanied former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran to the United States for treatment. The hospital continues to maintain a strong track record in kidney transplants while adhering strictly to all legal and ethical frameworks.
 

Today, Guruprasad is recovering well and looking forward to a healthier future.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Venkatram, who headed the team, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the benefactors. “Their selfless act has brought new life to this young boy and immense relief to his family,” he said. He also acknowledged the support extended by others who have contributed towards the family’s ongoing needs, including medicines, food, and clothing.
 

The transplant was made possible through the generous support of Mr. Vinayagam, Chennai Silks, and a Malaysian business couple, Datuk Dr. Ravee and Datin Kavery, who contributed through the Dr. Blue India Foundation, enabling the procedure to be carried out free of cost.
 

Dr. Venkatram further added, “There are many more families like Guruprasad’s who need timely medical intervention and support. We welcome both deserving patients and compassionate individuals who wish to make a difference to come forward and connect with East Coast Hospitals.”
 

East Coast Hospitals is also in the process of expanding its transplant services under various government healthcare schemes, including CMCHIS, PMJAY, ESI, and ECHS, with the aim of making advanced treatments more accessible and affordable to a wider section of society.
 

This story stands as a testament not only to medical excellence, but also to the extraordinary power of human compassion—where science, sacrifice, and kindness come together to give life a second chance.

Finkurve Financial Services Limited (NSE: FINKURVE; BSE: 508954), one of the leading tech-first gold loan NBFCs, announced its audited financial results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2026.

Priyank Kothari, Executive Director, Finkurve Financial Services Limited

The Company reported strong growth across key business and financial parameters during FY26, driven by continued expansion of its technology-led phygital strategy, branch network growth, and increasing customer adoption across markets. During the year, Finkurve crossed the significant milestone of INR 1,000 crore in Assets Under Management (AUM), underscoring its growing presence in India’s secured lending ecosystem.

Business Highlights: Q4 FY26
Finkurve continued to witness strong growth momentum during FY26, with Assets Under Management (AUM) growing 149% YoY to INR 1,096.1 crore, including off-book AUM of INR 21.03 crore, while AUM has grown nearly 10x compared to FY23. The Company expanded its branch network from 73 to 105 branches across India, with active gold loan customers standing at 28,506 as of March 31, 2026. During the year, Finkurve also raised approximately INR 111.5 crore to support expansion and strengthen its technology-led phygital strategy.

The Company achieved several strategic milestones during FY26, including the listing of its shares on the National Stock Exchange, crossing 100 tech-enabled gold loan branches, and expanding into South India with the launch of its first branch in Chennai. The Board also approved the appointment of Naveen Kottala as Chief Executive Officer effective November 18, 2025. Further, Finkurve entered into a strategic co-lending partnership with Godrej Finance Limited under RBI’s co-lending framework, while Infomerics and CARE Ratings assigned/upgraded the Company’s rating to ‘BBB+ / Stable’.

Financial Highlights: Q4 FY26
Finkurve reported a strong financial performance during Q4 FY26, with total income rising 71.21% YoY to INR 69.21 crore and Net Interest Income (NII) increasing 36.87% YoY to INR 47.44 crore. Profit Before Tax (PBT) grew 98.66% YoY to INR 10.42 crore, while Profit After Tax (PAT) increased 105.46% YoY to INR 8.04 crore. Basic EPS for the quarter stood at INR 0.58 compared to INR 0.31 in Q4 FY25.

The Company continued to maintain healthy asset quality and liquidity, with Gross NPA at 0.13%, Net NPA at 0.09%, and Capital Adequacy Ratio at 30.96%. Cash and cash equivalents stood at INR 102.12 crore, representing 8.28% of total assets.

Financial Snapshot: Q4 & FY26 (INR crore)

Key Metrics: Q4 FY26

Includes Off-Book AUM

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Priyank Kothari, Executive Director said, “Q4 FY26 represents a defining chapter in Finkurve’s journey. Our Assets under Management crossed the INR 1,000 crore mark during the year and reached INR 1,096 crore as on March 31, 2026, reflecting a 149% year-on-year growth. This milestone reflects the momentum we have built across our gold loan franchise and the growing trust of our customers and lending partners.

This growth has been supported by meaningful progress during the year. The expansion of our tech-enabled gold loan branch network and our co-lending partnership with Godrej Finance Limited are not just milestones, but important steps in building a stronger and more scalable business.

As we look ahead, we remain focused on ensuring that our growth is sustainable and well-governed. Asset quality continues to remain strong with Net NPA at 0.09%, our Capital Adequacy Ratio remains healthy at 30.96%, and liquidity remains comfortable. We will continue to invest in technology, expand our branch network, and diversify our funding base, while keeping risk management, operational discipline, and customer centricity at the core of everything we do.”

About Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)
Finkurve Financial Services Limited (NSE: FINKURVE; BSE: 508954), also known by its brand name Arvog, is a non-banking financial company (NBFC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as a non-deposit-taking, Middle-layer NBFC. Established in 1984 as Sanjay Leasing Ltd., the Company obtained its NBFC license in 1998 and was acquired by the Promoters in the year 2010.

Finkurve focuses primarily on gold loans, which form the majority of its Assets under Management (AUM), positioning it as a leading gold loan NBFC. The Company also offers personal loans and SME loans, expanding its financial solutions through partnerships with fintech companies.

Finkurve also has a strategic tie-up with Augmont Goldtech, India’s largest fully integrated gold platform, serving as a one-stop destination for all gold-related needs. With a growing presence across India, Finkurve remains committed to providing accessible, technology-driven financial services to a broad customer base.

For more details, please visit www.arvog.com.

VinFast Auto India, a subsidiary of global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has secured multiple honours across leading automotive platforms in India, reflecting the company’s accelerating momentum in one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets and the growing confidence in its long-term electric mobility vision.
 

VinFast continues to make its mark in India, earning multiple prestigious awards from leading automotive media outlets across the country
 

At the Motoring World Awards 2026, a respected editorial-driven automotive platform in India, VinFast was honoured with the “Disrupter of the Year” award, recognising the company’s bold market entry, differentiated approach to electric mobility, and efforts toward building a comprehensive EV ecosystem in India.
 

The recognition underscores how VinFast has approached India differently from many new entrants in the EV space. Rather than entering the market gradually, the company has simultaneously advanced product launches, manufacturing investments, charging partnerships, retail expansion, after-sales development, and ownership support initiatives. The jury particularly acknowledged VinFast’s willingness to develop vehicles, charging infrastructure, and service capabilities in parallel, reflecting a long-term and execution-driven strategy designed around how electric mobility needs to function at scale in India.
 

Further reinforcing the strength of its product portfolio, the VF 7 secured “Electric SUV of the Year” at the Car India Awards 2026, presented by one of India’s leading automotive magazines, and “EV Car of the Year” at the Innovation Technology and Imaging Awards 2026 by T3, the Indian edition of the globally-recognised UK technology magazine T3.
 

The dual honours for the VF 7 reflect the model’s growing reputation as one of the most compelling premium electric SUVs in the Indian market. Across both awards platforms, the vehicle stood out for combining striking design, refined driving dynamics, advanced safety systems, and a technology-rich cabin experience with strong relevance to Indian driving conditions and ownership expectations.
 

Specifically, at the Car India Awards 2026, the VF 7 was recognised for delivering a notably mature and well-rounded driving experience. The jury highlighted the SUV’s smooth and linear power delivery, intuitive ergonomics, and balanced ride quality, while also acknowledging the speed at which VinFast has evolved as a relatively young automaker.
 

The T3 award further reinforced the VF 7’s positioning as a technology-forward premium electric SUV developed with a clear all-electric focus. For the jury, the VF 7 represented not only VinFast’s strong product execution, but also a broader commitment to advancing a sustainable and fully electrified mobility future.
 

Positioned in the premium C-SUV segment, the VF 7 combines VinFast’s “Asymmetric Aerospace” design philosophy with advanced driver assistance technologies, connected features, and comprehensive safety systems. The model, along with the B-SUV VF 6, has also secured a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, reinforcing VinFast’s emphasis on safety as a core pillar of its product strategy in India. Together, these elements have helped the VF 7 establish a strong product-market fit among Indian consumers seeking premium electric mobility solutions that balance design appeal, technology integration, practicality, and long-term ownership confidence.
 

The recognitions further add to the list of accolades VinFast has received in the Indian market, including “EV Manufacturer of the Year” award at the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026, “Breakthrough Brand of the Year” at the Car&Bike Awards 2026, along with product honours such as “EV SUV of the Year – Editor’s Choice” for the VF 7 at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026 and “Value for Money Car of the Year” for the VF 6 at the Autocar India Awards 2026, reflecting continued positive evaluation from industry experts toward the company’s product direction and long-term investment strategy.
 

Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said, “These recognitions reflect the positive response to VinFast’s vision and product strategy in India. Being named ‘Disrupter of the Year’ acknowledges our bold approach to accelerating EV adoption, while the VF 7’s recognition as ‘Electric SUV of the Year’ and ‘EV Car of the Year’ reinforces our focus on delivering world-class electric vehicles for Indian consumers. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to building a strong EV ecosystem and seamless ownership experience.”
 

Mr. Pablo Chaterji, Executive Editor, Motoring World, added, “VinFast has arrived in India with the kind of determination that often takes established players years to develop. There’s a full product lineup, aggressive pricing and a long-term commitment to the market. Its ecosystem—vehicles, charging infrastructure, and service network developed in parallel—reflects an OEM that has carefully studied electric mobility. Its intent is serious and bold, and everything it has done so far is worth paying attention to.”
 

Mr. Aspi Bhathena, Editor, Car India, added, “What struck me immediately after getting into the car and driving it is how smooth and linear the power delivery is. The interior is simple but well laid-out and the ergonomics are excellent. VinFast may have only started making cars less than a decade ago, but its learning curve is commendable. It has done its homework and has made driving its EVs as safe, relaxing and enjoyable as possible.”
 

Mr. Girish Mallya, Editor, T3, added, “VinFast’s VF 7 winning the EV Car of the Year at the T3 India Technology Awards 2026 is a powerful validation of their bold, uncompromising vision. As one of the world’s few pure-play EV manufacturers that has completely abandoned ICE technology, VinFast channels 100% of its focus, innovation, and resources into electric vehicles. This win celebrates not just engineering excellence but a genuine commitment to a sustainable, all-electric future.”
 

In 2026, VinFast continued to strengthen its momentum in India through rapid portfolio expansion and long-term ecosystem development. Following the launch of the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs, both awarded 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings, the company further expanded into the electric MPV segment with the premium 7-seat VF MPV 7. VinFast also introduced a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the ownership experience, including assured resale programmes guaranteeing up to 90% vehicle value, free EV charging through V-Green-operated stations until March 2029, industry-leading warranty coverage, accessible financing solutions with local partners, and a rapidly expanding retail, after-sales, and service network across key regions in India.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. 
 

VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
 

Learn more at vinfastauto.in.

With temperatures breaching 45°C across large parts of India, NEEV Foundation has mounted a large-scale summer relief campaign, “Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega,” targeting outdoor workers, the general public, stray animals and birds bearing the brunt of this season’s extreme heat. The initiative is being rolled out across six states including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra.

NEEV Foundation launches ‘Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega’ summer relief campaign across six states

NEEV Foundation is deploying 60 relief vans to distribute clean, cold drinking water at high-footfall public areas and directly to those working long hours in the open, including traffic police personnel, delivery executives, construction workers, street vendors and autorickshaw drivers. Alongside water, the vans will distribute ORS pouches and protective caps to counter heat exposure and help replenish minerals lost to excessive perspiration.

Acknowledging that the crisis extends beyond human welfare, the Foundation has installed water tanks for stray animals and placed bird feeders and water trays across multiple locations. The campaign is anchored in a simple idea of access and empathy. As the foundation describes it: “The thirsty always come to the well. This summer, we decided to take the well to the thirsty.”

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Vivek Patni, Director – Wonder Cement and Founder of Neev Foundation said, “India’s summers are becoming increasingly harsh for people who spend most of their day outdoors. Through this campaign, we wanted to create immediate, accessible relief for those who keep our cities functioning despite extreme weather conditions. Sometimes the most meaningful interventions are also the simplest, whether it is offering a glass of water, a moment of shade or basic support during difficult conditions.”

He added, “NEEV was founded on the belief that social responsibility begins with showing up for people when they need support the most. We hope this campaign also encourages citizens to participate in small acts of care, from keeping water outside homes for birds and stray animals to supporting delivery personnel and outdoor workers during peak summer hours. Collective action often begins with individual awareness. Sometimes, a small beginning brings a big change and starts a revolution.”

The campaign carries a deliberate public mobilisation intent, seeking to deepen community participation in heat relief at a time when rising temperatures are emerging as a sustained challenge across urban and rural India.

The seasonal effort is part of a broader development mandate. NEEV Foundation’s Rural Development Centre in Nimbahera anchors its long-term work, which spans skill development for women under the Hunar programme, community infrastructure through Sanrachna, educational support under Udaan, healthcare outreach through Arogyam and sustainability initiatives under Eco Green.

With temperatures breaching 45°C across large parts of India, NEEV Foundation has mounted a large-scale summer relief campaign, “Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega,” targeting outdoor workers, the general public, stray animals and birds bearing the brunt of this season’s extreme heat. The initiative is being rolled out across six states including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra.

NEEV Foundation is deploying 60 relief vans to distribute clean, cold drinking water at high-footfall public areas and directly to those working long hours in the open, including traffic police personnel, delivery executives, construction workers, street vendors and autorickshaw drivers. Alongside water, the vans will distribute ORS pouches and protective caps to counter heat exposure and help replenish minerals lost to excessive perspiration.

Acknowledging that the crisis extends beyond human welfare, the Foundation has installed water tanks for stray animals and placed bird feeders and water trays across multiple locations. The campaign is anchored in a simple idea of access and empathy. As the foundation describes it: “The thirsty always come to the well. This summer, we decided to take the well to the thirsty.”

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Vivek Patni, Director – Wonder Cement and Founder of Neev Foundation said, “India’s summers are becoming increasingly harsh for people who spend most of their day outdoors. Through this campaign, we wanted to create immediate, accessible relief for those who keep our cities functioning despite extreme weather conditions. Sometimes the most meaningful interventions are also the simplest, whether it is offering a glass of water, a moment of shade or basic support during difficult conditions.”

He added, “NEEV was founded on the belief that social responsibility begins with showing up for people when they need support the most. We hope this campaign also encourages citizens to participate in small acts of care, from keeping water outside homes for birds and stray animals to supporting delivery personnel and outdoor workers during peak summer hours. Collective action often begins with individual awareness. Sometimes, a small beginning brings a big change and starts a revolution.”

The campaign carries a deliberate public mobilisation intent, seeking to deepen community participation in heat relief at a time when rising temperatures are emerging as a sustained challenge across urban and rural India.

The seasonal effort is part of a broader development mandate. NEEV Foundation’s Rural Development Centre in Nimbahera anchors its long-term work, which spans skill development for women under the Hunar programme, community infrastructure through Sanrachna, educational support under Udaan, healthcare outreach through Arogyam and sustainability initiatives under Eco Green.

With “Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega,” the Foundation seeks to demonstrate a point that is straightforward but easy to overlook during a crisis. Compassion can bring about tangible relief for those, most exposed to India’s harshest summer.

About NEEV Foundation
NEEV Foundation is a socially driven initiative committed to building stronger, kinder and more resilient communities through sustainable and meaningful social interventions. Guided by the philosophy of creating a strong foundation for a better tomorrow, NEEV Foundation, under the leadership of Mr. Vivek Patni, works across healthcare, education, women empowerment, infrastructure development and environmental sustainability to create lasting positive impact.

Group Legrand India today inaugurated the Legrand Institute for Training & Education at Thane, marking the launch of its first dedicated training centre in Maharashtra. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde, as the Chief Guest, along with the Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development, Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Government of Maharashtra, and Ms. Agnès Silva, Deputy Consul de France, Mumbai.

Thane Institute Inauguration

Established as part of Group Legrand India’s social commitment towards skill development and youth empowerment, the institute aims to strengthen industry-ready technical talent and enhance employability across the electrical and allied technology sectors.

Developed in collaboration with SkillSonics, an NSDC-accredited implementation and knowledge partner, the 8,000 sq. ft. world-class standalone facility has been designed to provide industry-oriented technical training for ITI students, diploma and engineering students, technicians, and electricians. The institute will offer completely free-of-cost training programs with a strong emphasis on practical learning, industry exposure, and employability enhancement aligned to evolving technological and market requirements.

The initiative is expected to train and upskill more than 1,000 students and electricians annually, creating a stronger pipeline of skilled talent for India’s growing infrastructure, energy, and electrical ecosystem. The initiative further strengthens Group Legrand India’s broader CSR framework, which is built on five key pillars: education, healthcare, environment, skill development, and disaster relief; through impactful interventions across communities nationwide.

Speaking on the occasion, Tony Berland, CEO & Managing Director, Group Legrand India, said, “The inauguration of our training centre in Thane marks a significant milestone in Legrand’s journey of empowering youth through skill development and enhancing employability. Through this initiative, we aim to provide accessible, high quality technical education that equips students and electricians with future ready capabilities while contributing meaningfully to India’s skilled workforce development.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra said, “Maharashtra has been actively focusing on strengthening skill development and creating employment opportunities for youth through industry partnerships and practical learning initiatives. The Legrand Institute for Training & Education aligns well with the State’s vision of building a future-ready skilled workforce and will contribute meaningfully towards Maharashtra’s larger skill development mission and industrial growth.”

Abida Aneez, VP – CSR & Sustainability, Group Legrand India, shared, “The Legrand Institute for Training & Education has been developed as a first-of-its-kind advanced technical training facility with modern labs and the latest technologies in electrical and UPS systems. The customised curriculum, designed jointly by Legrand’s subject matter experts and SkillSonics’ technical specialists, aims to equip students and electricians with practical skills and industry-ready capabilities aligned to current and future technological needs.”

The inauguration of the training centre marks another important step in advancing Group Legrand India’s long-term vision of inclusive growth through accessible skilling and community development.

About Group Legrand India

Legrand is a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, dedicated to supporting technological, societal, and environmental change around the globe. Legrand’s core purpose is to improve lives by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet, with electrical and digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable.

For over two decades, Group Legrand India has maintained its leadership position in power protection business, utilizing its global expertise to tailor the offering to local market needs. The Group has strategic acquisitions which further solidified its commitment to delivering complete solutions, making it the preferred partner across diverse market segments.

 Group Legrand India has several brands under its umbrella who are leaders in their respective product domain, namely IndoAsian, Numeric, Valrack, Adlec and NetRack. With a diverse workforce of 5000+ employees across India, Group Legrand India has 7 state of the art manufacturing facilities, 3 R&D centres and a wide distribution network with over 870 distribution partners and 19000+ retailers.

Legrand’s purpose guides its responsible commitments to a more sustainable world for all. Legrand’s CSR commitments actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the UN for a better and more sustainable future.

Legrand has laid out its CSR /Sustainability commitments in 4 main areas of actions to improve lives:

• Promote diversity and inclusion

• Reduce its carbon footprint

• Develop a circular economy

• Be a responsible business

Legrand has set the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 throughout the Group’s value chain.

Smart Expos & Fairs (India) Pvt. Ltd. is set to host South India’s largest integrated industrial sourcing platform from May 28 to 30, 2026 at the Chennai Trade Centre. The co-located editions of COMPACK 2026, LOGMAT 2026 and COSS 2026 will together create a comprehensive business and sourcing destination for the manufacturing and industrial sectors. Spanning over 60,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space, the three-day industrial trade platform aims to strengthen business networking, supplier discovery and industry collaboration while highlighting Tamil Nadu’s rapid emergence as a major manufacturing and industrial hub.

South India’s Premier Industrial Trade Cluster Opens at Chennai Trade Centre This Thursday

More than 215 exhibiting brands and 100+ sub-brands will showcase innovations across packaging machinery, warehousing, logistics, material handling, automation, intralogistics, storage systems, industrial safety and supply chain technologies at the integrated B2B platform designed for industry professionals. The exhibitions will be open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on May 28 and 29, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on May 30. Entry is free for trade visitors with prior online registration at smartexpos.in/vp-smart or business credentials.

The mega expo will bring together procurement leaders, factory heads, plant and operations managers, warehouse and logistics professionals, safety and EHS officers, project engineers, and business owners from the automotive, plastics, FMCG, pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles, chemicals, electricals, warehousing and logistics sectors across India.

The event will also feature over 50 live equipment demonstrations, direct interaction with technical teams and seamless access to suppliers under one roof — enabling visitors to compare solutions, explore partnerships and make informed sourcing decisions in a single visit.

Together, the three exhibitions will address the core requirements of modern manufacturing facilities — packaging finished products, moving and storing goods efficiently, and ensuring the safety of people, infrastructure and industrial assets.

About the three exhibitions

COMPACK 2026 (15th Edition)

South India’s longest-running dedicated packaging exhibition returns with over 100 brands across packaging machinery, materials, converting systems, printing, labelling and coding — covering the full packaging value chain from primary equipment to end-of-line dispatch.

LOGMAT 2026 (11th Edition)

South India’s only dedicated exhibition for material handling, warehousing and intralogistics, featuring more than 75 brands across material handling equipment, warehouse automation, storage systems, AIDC/RFID, robotics and intralogistics — a key sourcing platform for industries planning automation and capacity expansion in FY2026–27.

COSS 2026 (1st Edition)

Making its debut, COSS is South India’s first comprehensive exhibition focused exclusively on industrial safety and security, with brands showcasing occupational safety products, PPE, fire detection and protection, surveillance, industrial security and compliance and training services — addressing the rising priority of EHS compliance across manufacturing.

About Smart Expos & Fairs

Smart Expos & Fairs (India) Pvt. Ltd. is a Chennai-based B2B exhibition organiser with over two decades of experience running industrial trade shows across India and international markets. Website: www.smartexpos.in.

Pepe Jeans London has been recognised with two awards at the Phygital Retail Convention 2026 hosted by IMAGES Group, celebrating innovation and excellence in retail marketing and customer engagement.

Pepe Jeans Wins Big at Images Group PRC Event

The brand secured wins in the following categories:

• Marketing Campaign of the Year for the Pepe Jeans x Social Discovery campaign

• CRM / Loyalty Programme of the Year for its customer engagement and database-driven retail initiatives

The award-winning Pepe Jeans x Social Discovery campaign leveraged Meta Ads to create a more personalised and conversational shopping journey for consumers. The campaign delivered strong business impact through lead generation, customer engagement, and measurable sales conversions, while strengthening the brand’s digital-first retail approach.

In the CRM and loyalty category, the recognition highlighted Pepe Jeans London’s focus on customer retention, database management, and data-led engagement strategies that have contributed to sustained consumer relationships and retail performance.

These recognitions reflect the brand’s continued focus on building meaningful consumer experiences through technology, data intelligence, and integrated omnichannel marketing initiatives.

The Phygital Retail Convention by IMAGES Group is among India’s leading retail industry platforms, bringing together brands, retailers, and industry leaders to recognise innovation across the retail ecosystem.

About Pepe Jeans London
Pepe Jeans London was born on London’s iconic Portobello Road in 1973. Today, over 50 years later, the brand remains devoted to its initial mantra and pledge to create the world’s most exciting denim-led fashion. The diversity and mix of cultures that define the city of London also define the Pepe Jeans personality, providing a constant source of inspiration for the women’s, men’s, and junior collections. Music, Culture, Fashion, London, and Denim, that’s what Pepe Jeans is all about.

#PepeJeansLondon
@pepejeansindia
pepejeans.in

Awaji Island, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is home to “Nijigen no Mori,” an anime-themed park where visitors can experience the worlds of popular Japanese series in a natural setting. Among its attractions, the TV anime “Attack on Titan” collaboration offers an immersive experience that brings the story to life.

Four types of newly illustrated original bookmarks

At the TV Anime “Attack on Titan” × Nijigen no Mori collaboration event, an SNS campaign is currently underway where visitors can receive exclusive original novelties by sharing memories of their experience on social media.

As a new addition to this campaign, four types of bookmarks featuring newly illustrated original designs will be available starting Friday, Jun 5.

The bookmarks distributed in this campaign are four types of limited-edition novelties featuring Eren, Mikasa, Erwin, and Levi holding bouquets, set against the backdrop of Awaji Island—known as a “flower island” where visitors can enjoy vibrant seasonal blooms throughout the year.

By posting photos or videos of your experience with the hashtags #NijigenNoMori and #shingeki, and presenting your post to the reception staff, you will receive one of the four bookmark designs at random. 

Share on social media your life-risking expeditions alongside your comrades as you face Titans in the darkness of night. At Nijigen no Mori, where the world of Attack on Titan comes to life, visitors can proudly showcase your unforgettable memories.

SNS Campaign New Novelty: Original Newly Illustrated “Bookmarks” Overview

Distribution Start: Friday, Jun 5, 2026

Business Hours:

Night Event: 19:30–22:00 (Last Entry 20:30)

Day Event:

Weekdays: 13:00–17:00 (Last Entry 17:30)

Holidays: 10:00–17:00 (Last Entry 17:30)

Location: TV Anime “Attack on Titan” × Nijigen no Mori Collaboration Event Reception

Details: Post photos or videos of your experience at this collaboration event on social media with the hashtag #nijigennomori and #shingeki. By presenting your post to the reception staff, and you will receive one of four randomly selected bookmark desins featuring newly illustrated original characters.

Website: https://nijigennomori.com/en/awaji_shingeki/?utm_campaign=pr

TV Anime“Attack on Titan” × Nijigen no Mori Collaboration Event Overview

Period: Saturday, March 14, 2026 – Sunday, December 13, 2026

Location: 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan

(Inside Hyogo Prefectural Awajishima Park Anime Park “Nijigen no Mori”)

Overview: The world of the TV anime “Attack on Titan” will be recreated within the rich natural setting of Nijigen no Mori. Guests can enjoy the world of the anime through two events held by day and by night.

1. [Night Event]“Attack on Titan THE NIGHT WALK – Beyond the Wall –”

Walk approximately 1.2 km through the forest at night and experience the world of the TV anime “Attack on Titan” brought to life through projection mapping and immersive sound effects. Participants become new recruits of the Survey Corps and join the battle to reclaim freedom from the Titans, aiming for “beyond the walls” together with Eren Yeager and the members of the Survey Corps. At the goal, participants will receive an original card.

2. [Day Events]

Phase 1:“Attack on Titan Stamp Rally in Nijigen no Mori”

Participants can collect stamps of four characters in original illustrations, located throughout Nijigen no Mori, in a special stamp booklet. All participants will receive a novelty postcard with an original design.

Phase 2:“Attack on Titan Mystery Quest – Nijigen no Mori Edition / At-Home”

Participants take on the role of subordinates to Hans Zoe, who is deeply immersed in Titan research, and experience a mystery-solving adventure as they work to unravel various puzzles. The start date will be announced at a later time.

3. Collaboration Merchandise

Newly illustrated original artwork of Eren, Mikasa, Levi, and Erwin and others will appear as can badges and acrylic stands. In addition, a total of 36 original items packed with fun references for fans will be available, including goods such as “Captain Levi’s Quote Momo” and Armin’s “An Endless Lifetime’s Worth of Salt.”

4. Collaboration Food

The collaboration food lineup includes “Eren’s Determination Mapo Tofu Bowl,” inspired by Eren’s burning hatred and resolve against the Titans; “Sasha’s Sneak-Eating Plate,” featuring ingredients she secretly snacked on; and “Mikasa’s Warm Red Scarf Cake,” inspired by her iconic red scarf. In addition, collaboration drinks such as “Captain Levi’s After-Cleaning Tea au Lait,” perfect for a relaxing break after tidying up, will be offered, for a total of 11 items.

Ticket Information (Tax Included)

• All prices above include tax.

• Admission ticket prices for “Attack on Titan THE NIGHTWALK –Beyond the Walls–” may vary depending on the period. Please check the official Nijigen no Mori website for details.

• Children must be accompanied by at least one guardian (adult) for admission.

• Admission is free for children aged 4 and under for “Attack on Titan THE NIGHTWALK – Beyond the Walls.”

• Admission tickets for “Attack on Titan THE NIGHTWALK –Beyond the Walls–” are for designated time slots.

Business Hours

Night Event: 19:30–22:00 (Last admission 20:30)

Day Event

Weekdays: 13:00–19:00 (Last admission 17:30)

Weekends & Holidays: 10:00–19:00 (Last admission 17:30)　

Business hours are subject to change depending on the season. Please check the official Nijigen no Mori website for details.

Notes： The above information is current as of the date of release and is subject to change.　

Tickets:www.getyourguide.com/awaji-l155101/awaji-attack-on-titan-anime-park-entry-ticket-t1229530/

Official Website: nijigennomori.com/en/awaji_shingeki/

Inquiries：Nijigen no Mori Inc.“Nijigen no Mori” Management Office

Tel: +81-799-64-7061

©Hajime Isayama, KODANSHA/”ATTACK ON TITAN” The Final Season Production Committee.

About Nijigen no Mori (Anime Park Awaji Island)

Nijigen no Mori is an anime theme park located on Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The sprawling park features famous titles from Japanese pop culture in interactive attractions set in the greenery of Awaji Island.

By utilizing digital and interactive technologies, the park offers immersive experiences for visitors of all ages and nationalities. It features attractions based on Japanese anime, manga, movies, and video games, allowing visitors to engage with these works through multi-sensory activities.

The park includes areas themed around classic titles such as NARUTO, Godzilla, Crayon Shinchan, and Dragon Quest, recreating the worlds of these works in a natural setting and offering hands-on, experiential attractions.

Access

• By Highway Bus

From Kansai International Airport, take a highway bus bound for Sannomiya, Namba, or Umeda. Transfer at one of these major hubs to a highway bus heading to Awaji Island. Please get off at either “Awaji IC” or “Nijigen no Mori.” Only one transfer is required, and the total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

• By Train + Highway Bus

From Kansai International Airport, travel by JR or Nankai Railway to the Osaka, Namba, or Sannomiya area. From there, transfer to a highway bus bound for Awaji Island. Please get off at either “Awaji IC” or “Nijigen no Mori.” The total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

©Hajime Isayama, KODANSHA/”ATTACK ON TITAN” The Final Season Production Committee.

The global race in artificial intelligence is usually framed around compute, capital and talent. Who has the most powerful chips. Who is spending the most on research. Who can attract the best engineers. By those measures, the contest looks like a two-horse race between the United States and China.
 

NJF Holdings founder Nicole Junkermann thinks that framing misses something important. And she thinks India is the country best placed to prove it.
 

Nicole Junkermann says India’s digital infrastructure creates strategic AI advantage
 

Junkermann, early investor in AI companies including Anthropic and Groq, acquired by Nvidia, has spent more than a decade investing at the intersection of technology, life sciences and human behaviour. Her view, developed through that work and codified in what she calls The Human Code, is that the AI economy will ultimately be won not by the markets with the most capability but by those that build the most trust.
 

“Capability in AI is becoming less scarce. The models are getting better everywhere, faster than anyone expected. What isn’t becoming less scarce is trust. People and institutions choosing to rely on AI systems, to integrate them into decisions that matter, to build their lives and businesses around them. That’s the harder thing to build. And it turns out India has some significant structural advantages in building it.”
 

Why trust is the scarcer resource

The first generation of AI development was largely a capability race. The second is shaping up to be a trust race. The difference matters because capability without trust doesn’t scale into the parts of the economy where AI creates the most value: healthcare, finance, education, public services, legal systems. Those are domains where adoption depends on confidence, and confidence depends on something more than technical performance.
 

Junkermann draws a direct parallel with sport, an industry she knows from the other side of her portfolio through Gameday by NJF Holdings, her sports investment platform.
 

“Sport is the only commercial system that has built mass trust across cultures, income levels and generations without a regulatory mandate. It does that because the architecture is transparent: the rules are public, the outcomes are unscripted, the consequences of violations are real. AI systems that want to earn the same kind of trust need to think about architecture in the same way. Not compliance. Architecture.”
 

India’s structural position

What makes India interesting, in Nicole Junkermann’s view, is a combination of factors that most major AI markets don’t share simultaneously.
 

India is building its AI infrastructure now, with the failures of the first generation visible. The United States built its technology ecosystem before the trust problem was fully understood. The consequences, around data privacy, algorithmic bias and platform accountability, took years to become apparent and are still being addressed. India can see those consequences clearly and build differently from the start.
 

India also has a demonstrated capacity to build digital systems that earn mass trust at scale. UPI is used by hundreds of millions of people across every income level. Aadhaar created a digital identity infrastructure of extraordinary reach. These weren’t just technical achievements. They were trust achievements: systems that people with no prior relationship with digital finance chose to rely on, quickly and in large numbers.
 

“What India has already proved with payments and identity is that it can build digital infrastructure that earns trust across an enormously diverse population. That’s not a small thing. Most countries haven’t done it. The question is whether the same instinct gets applied to AI, and I think the conditions are there for it to happen.”
 

The Human Code and long-term value

The argument connects to The Human Code, the values framework that underpins NJF Holdings’ investment philosophy across both its technology portfolio and Gameday. Its central claim is that the most durable commercial value is created by systems that strengthen trust rather than exploit it, and that in an AI-accelerated economy that distinction is becoming more consequential, not less.
 

For investors, Junkermann argues, this has direct and urgent practical implications. AI companies that build trust into their architecture from the start will have lower adoption friction, stronger retention, more durable regulatory relationships and better long-term economics than those that treat trust as a compliance problem to be managed.
 

India, with its scale, its engineering talent and its proven instinct for building digital systems that work for everyone, is well placed to produce those companies.
 

About NJF Holdings

NJF Holdings is a global investment group founded by Nicole Junkermann. It operates across two principal activities: NJF Capital, a venture portfolio of more than 40 companies focused on early-stage investment in artificial intelligence, deep tech and life sciences; and Gameday by NJF Holdings, a sports investment and platform business focused on building long-term commercial and digital infrastructure across professional leagues and media.
 

Notable NJF Capital investments include SpaceX, Revolut, Rippling and Groq, acquired by Nvidia.
 

For more information, visit NJFHoldings.com.