DEVI Sansthan and University of Canterbury Study Links Literacy to Women’s Mental Health
Lucknow, 17 July 2025 — A pilot study being conducted by DEVI Sansthan in collaboration with the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, explores whether basic literacy significantly improves mental well-being, emotional resilience, and self-worth among women in low-income urban communities. DEVI Sansthan identified and enrolled women from low-income groups in several slums of central Lucknow, such as Nai Basti, Janta Nagri, Daliganj bridge and others.
The literacy intervention, which is spanning over 15-weeks, consists of 70 women aged 18–50, many of whom had never been to school. These women are now being taught reading, writing, and basic maths through DEVI’s ALfA (Accelerating Learning for All) pedagogy. Unlike traditional education models, ALfA promotes foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) through peer learning and critical thinking. These informal classes are conducted in local courtyards and shared spaces, allowing women to fit learning into their daily routines.
The study is based in Lucknow, a city of 4.2 million people and the capital of Uttar Pradesh, focusing on women from low-income households and residing in informal urban communities in the old city. These localities are home to migrants from various North Indian states, with high representation of Scheduled Caste and Muslims, among others. A recent survey in Nai Basti, one of Lucknow’s largest slums, found that 60% of households were OBC and 87% were Muslim.
Women acquiring basic literacy skills are reporting noticeable improvements in mood, self-confidence, and their role within family decision-making, as well as reduced feelings of isolation. “This study confirms that literacy is more than an academic outcome—it is a form of healing and empowerment,” said Dr. Sunita Gandhi, Founder of DEVI Sansthan and co-investigator of the study. “Every woman who learns to read begins to stand taller, think clearer, and hope harder. She becomes a Malala in her own right—fearless and vocal.”
The study employs psychological assessment tools, including Self – reported questionnaire, Warwick Edinberg test and the Participation Scale, to track shifts in participants’ mental well-being. Many of the women describe the learning sessions as the only ‘me- time’ they have in their daily lives, creating emotional relief, friendship with co-learners, and shared strength.
Heena, a young high-schooler who leads literacy classes in her slum. “Women juggle housework, stitching, and toddlers,” she says. “We adapt class timings to their lives. Learning should liberate, not burden.”
Gulnaaz, a 22 year old learner from Nai Basti, who wrote her name for the first time, said, “Ab mai apne naam se jaani jaungi” (Now, I’ll be known by my own name). Shamima, a mother of a six-month-old, added, “I will teach my daughter Mannat to read and write. No more labels of being ‘Nirakshar’ (illiterate).”
“This research makes a powerful case for integrating literacy into public mental health strategies,” noted Dr Prajakta Shukla, research coordinator and study co-author. “In low-resource settings, even simple learning circles like these can offer protective benefits against depression, anxiety, and social exclusion.”
TVS Motor Company Unveils the Ultimate Street Weapon
Chandigarh, July 17, 2025: Backed by rich racing pedigree spanning over four decades, TVS Motor Company (TVSM) – a global leader in the two and three-wheeler segment – today launched the 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310, the ultimate street weapon. Designed with a rider-first mindset, performance focused upgrades and aggressive styling, the 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 stays true to its street-dominating DNA while taking a bold step forward. The machine is a perfect fusion of power and precision built for those who ride with confidence, control, and character.
The OBD2B-compliant 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 redefines smart performance – offers real-time emission monitoring, sharper responsiveness, and enhanced engine health. With the debut of a next-gen, multi-language UI/UX cluster, it delivers a more personalized, intuitive, and immersive ride, blending sustainability, innovation, and rider satisfaction like never before.
Feature Rich and Segments Firsts
Build-To-Order(BTO) Option
The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 310 continues with its industry first, factory customization option, through the TVS Built-To-Order (BTO) platform.
The Dynamic Pro Kit offers:
· Keyless Ride System
· Cornering Drag Torque Control feature in RT-DSC
· Launch Control feature in RT-DSC
Segment First Features:
· Transparent clutch cover
· Key Less ride
· Drag Torque Control
· Cornering Drag Torque Control (BTO)
New Features:
· Gen-2 Cluster with Multi-language UI
· USD 43 Dia Front Suspension (Base variant)
· Sequential Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) with Revised Styling
· Hand Guards
· Drag Torque Control (DTC)
· Launch Control (RT-DSC) – Dynamic Pro Kit
· Three New Colour Options with Graphics Refresh
Design & Dynamics of the Freestyler
Refreshed for 2025, the TVS Apache RTR 310 gets three bold new colour options with striking graphics, a transparent clutch cover, and updated sequential TSL, all amplifying its aggressive, futuristic streetfighter appeal. Now equipped with standard hand guards across all variants, it also retains the iconic Race Replica Sepang Blue on the top-end BTO variant, a tribute to TVS Racing’s global legacy.
Speaking about the launch, Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS Apache RTR 310 has been a trendsetter in the naked sports segment since its debut. With the 2025 edition, we’re building on its bold legacy by integrating future-ready tech, intuitive digital interfaces, standout styling and with unwavering commitment to rider safety. This refreshed freestyler reflects the new era of motorcycling, one that is connected, customizable, and committed to sustainability. We’re proud to bring this upgraded experience to our community of TVS Apache riders who live to push boundaries every day.”
HDFC AMC Q1 FY26 PBT (Ex-ESOP) Rises 31% to INR 9,918 Million
July 17, 2025: DFC AMC’s Profit Before Tax (excluding non-cash charge related to employee stock expenses) for the Quarter ended June 30,2025 at ₹9,918 million, an increase of 31% over Quarter ended June 30,2024.
HDFC Asset Management Company Limited (HDFC AMC) declares financial results for the period ended June 30, 2025.
• Amongst India’s largest mutual fund managers with QAAUM market share of 11.5% for the quarter ended June 30,2025.
• Amongst India’s largest Actively Managed Equity Mutual Fund managers with QAAUM market share of 12.8% for the quarter ended June 30,2025.
• One of the most preferred choices of individual investors, with a market share of 13.1% of the individual monthly average AUM for June 2025.
• Revenue from operations was ₹9,678 million and operating profit was ₹7,534 million for the Quarter ended June 30,2025, an increase of 25% and 30% respectively over the Quarter ended June 30,2024.
Mumbai, July 17, 2025: HDFC Asset Management Company Limited today reported its financial performance for the quarter ended June 30,2025.
CORPORATE HIGHLIGHTS
· QAAUM of ₹8,286 billion for the quarter ended June 30,2025 compared to ₹6,716 billion for the quarter ended June 30,2024, 11.5% market share in QAAUM of the mutual fund industry.
· QAAUM in actively managed equity-oriented funds i.e. equity oriented QAAUM excluding index funds stood at ₹4,963 billion for the quarter ended June 30,2025 with a market share of 12.8%. The AMC is amongst the largest actively managed equity-oriented mutual fund managers in the country.
· The ratio of equity and non-equity oriented QAAUM is 64:36, compared to the industry ratio of 56:44 for the quarter ended June 30,2025.
· 12.03 million Systematic transactions with a value of ₹40.1 billion processed during the month of June 2025.
· Over 99,000 empaneled distribution partners across MFDs, National Distributors and Banks, serviced through a total of 280 offices of which 196 are in B-30 locations. The contribution of B-30 locations to our total monthly average AUM for June 2025 is 19.4%.
· 70% of the company’s total monthly average AUM for June 2025 is contributed by individual investors compared to 61% for the industry.
· Market share of 13.1% of the individual monthly average AUM for June 2025, making the company one of the most preferred choices of individual investors.
· Total Live Accounts stood at 24.3 million as on June 30,2025. Unique customers as identified by PAN or PEKRN now stands at 13.7 million as on June 30,2025 compared to 55.3 million for the industry, a penetration of 25%.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30,2025
• The Operating Profit for the quarter ended June 30,2025 was ₹7,534 million as compared to ₹5,793 million for the quarter ended June 30,2024.
• Profit before tax for the quarter ended June 30,2025 was ₹9,861 million as compared to ₹7,524 million for the quarter ended June 30,2024.
• Profit after tax for the quarter ended June 30,2025 was ₹7,480 million as compared to ₹6,039 million for the quarter ended June 30,2024.
Average Home Prices in Thane Up 46 Percentage in Last 3 Years, 2BHKs Dominate New Supply
Mumbai, 17th July 2025: Thane, once seen as a supporting suburb, now headlines the Mumbai Metropolitan Region residential real estate revolution, riding on rapid infrastructure upgrades, surging buyer interest, and a hot housing market. A report by ANAROCK titled ‘Thane: The Rising Star of MMR Real Estate’ highlights the city’s explosive housing price growth – a whopping 46% leap in average residential prices in just three years, from INR 13,550/sq. ft. in Q2 2022 to INR 19,800/sq. ft. in Q2 2025.
Aayush Puri, Head – ANAROCK Channel Partners (ACP) & ANACITY, points out that prices in Thane have rocketed up 60% since 2020, when the average was around INR 12,400 per sq. ft. “Thane is not just a hot residential destination – it has also played a key role in redefining the MMR housing landscape. “Thane’s steady capital values growth has largely been fuelled by infrastructure upgrades that have ignited homebuyer interest. Demand for under-construction homes outperforms ready-to-move-in units in 2025 so far, largely because the city offers luxury homes at relatively affordable prices in contrast to Mumbai’s prime markets.”
A total of 65,800 units were launched in Thane between FY 2020 to FY 2025, finds the report. Nearly 45% of the overall new supply in this period comprises of 2BHKs, followed by 42% of 1BHKs. 3BHKs comprise a 11% share, and 4BHKs just 2%.
“Affordability is a major keyword in Thane’s housing market,” says Aayush Puri. “We are seeing a strong market inclination towards smaller residential units. On that front, Thane is at least 78% more affordable than suburban Mumbai. For instance, a 2BHK home with an average carpet area of 650 sq. ft. costs about INR 1.25 Cr, while in Mumbai’s central suburbs it will cost around INR 2.11 Cr. In the western suburbs, it goes as high as INR 2.36 Cr – and this is just the BSP, not factoring in GST, registration, and other charges.”
Amid core Mumbai’s skyrocketing property values, Thane is increasingly becoming the destination of choice for homebuyers and investors seeking better value without compromising on quality. The report adds that Thane’s residential skyline currently boasts of 89 skyscrapers of 40+ floors, mirroring the land scarcity-driven vertical growth imperative of Mumbai City.
There have been some notable changes on the Thane real estate market, finds the report. Between COVID-struck FY 2020 and FY 2025, FY 2023 saw new housing supply there grow by almost 103% when compared to FY 2020, while absorption rose a dizzying 78% – to 19,600 units in FY 2024 from FY 2020. In Q1FY 2026, Thane saw approx. 3,130 residential units sold, while new supply stood at 2,910 units.
Construction Brands Delivering End-to-End Luxury Home Experiences
17th July 2025: Luxury in housing today is not only about premium materials, but about a singular, well-managed journey from concept to completion. In South India, some construction firms are redefining luxury through concept ownership, construction, and total control of the entire process, ensuring consistency, a complete experience, quality, and a curated lifestyle. Here, we highlight three such brands, helping set new standards in end-to-end luxury living:
Bhadra Group
The Bhadra Group out of Bangalore offers turnkey housing where everything from the idea of a design to the end point of turning over the house is done in-house. They plan the layouts, project manage architecture, manage construction, and focus on the final detailing. This ownership allows them to control the quality of the build and deliver a holistic experience to the homeowner. Sustainability and efficiency of space were inherent to the project. Every decision made by the Bhadra team, including the production of materials, layout designs, was made considering the needs of the homeowners. For Bhadra, luxury is about the smoothness and integrity of the entirety of the experience, not just the final aesthetic of the build.
DEEJOS
DEEJOS, with a strong presence in Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, offers a fully-installed home-built experience, covering architectural design, 3D rendering, execution, and final delivery. DEEJOS’ team of professionals and specialists handles everything from design and approvals to construction and finishing, making accountability available at each stage and removing coordination errors. Additionally, their design-first approach means that clients can be involved in the process whilst ensuring a high-quality build, making DEEJOS an ideal destination for those after a single-window luxury experience!
Nambiar Builders
Nambiar Builders is vertically integrated in luxury residential property development, as illustrated by their flagship Beleza Villas project. The firm directs every phase of the project from acquiring the land, planning, constructing, and then managing the community afterward. As a result they can pull together architecture, landscaping, and amenities into one complete vision to set the stage for luxury stays.
The homes boast strong space, light, and lifestyle qualities – high ceilings, private gardens, and easy transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Nambiar provides an end-to-end service to residents where the experience is a contained luxury community, allowing residents to step into a complete, ready-to-live luxury ecosystem.