The University of Leeds is pleased to announce its International Excellence Scholarship for 2025, which aims to draw in and assist exceptional students from all over the world. This award, which offers financial aid to outstanding overseas students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, demonstrates the university’s dedication to academic quality, diversity, and global involvement. A merit-based prize, the International Excellence Scholarship seeks to celebrate and reward exceptional academic achievement. Qualified applicants will have a strong academic record, the capacity for leadership, and a dedication to supporting the lively and diverse community at the University of Leeds.

The University of Leeds is a globally renowned institution, consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. Known for its innovative research, outstanding faculty, and inclusive campus environment, Leeds is committed to empowering the next generation of global leaders.

Prof. Manuel Barcia, Dean of Global Engagement, University of Leeds commented “We are delighted to offer the International Excellence Scholarship to talented students from across the globe. This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to the transformative education we provide.”

Eligibility: To apply for a masters International Excellence Scholarship, a candidate must:

• be considered for fee purposes as a foreign student
• Candidate has completed an application for a master’s program that is eligible for entrance in 2025–2026.
• Before applying for the scholarship, a candidate does not need to have been offered a place to study.
• A student can be either self-funded or partially funded.
• Need to show a strong academic record and be expected to get or have earned a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 (hons) or equivalent
• exhibit outstanding interpersonal and professional abilities as demonstrated by extracurricular activities and/or work experience.

Application Deadline: Friday 16 May 2025, 5 PM UK time.

Application Outcome: students will be notified of the outcome of the scholarship application by Friday 13 June 2025. If candidates are selected for the scholarship, they will need to accept the award within the timeframe stated in their scholarship letter.

Mumbai, India, January 23, 2025 – Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), the global cybersecurity leader, today announced the release of a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) Open API framework, empowering organizations to prepare for future quantum security threats. The framework, developed in partnership with six innovators across the QRNG field, addresses the need for multi-vendor interoperability across the industry and enables organizations to invest in and build QRNG-based systems that are resilient regardless of the underlying technology or company.

Rich Campagna, SVP Product Management, Palo Alto Networks:

“Helping the world become quantum safe is much more than any one cybersecurity company, government agency or critical infrastructure organization can tackle alone. Collaboration in the QRNG field is vital to future-proofing against quantum computing threats and we are committed to our work with standards bodies, global governments and our partners to help steer the industry toward standardization. We are thrilled to launch the QRNG Open API to benefit as many organizations as possible.”

The future convergence of AI, ML, deep learning and classical supercomputing with quantum computing necessitates securing today’s systems against quantum-enabled attacks. QRNG is a technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, which are essential for creating secure cryptographic keys. recently released NIST post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards in combination with QRNG to give organizations the best chance to protect against future threats. The QRNG Open API framework eliminates barriers to QRNG adoption, helping global organizations access the highest quality cryptographic operations possible as they prepare for quantum computing technology.

Available through the Palo Alto Networks GitHub portal, the QRNG Open API can be embedded into any application. Later this year, Palo Alto Networks Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) will support the QRNG Open API, enabling the network security platform to bring in entropy for cryptographic functions.

Developed by Palo Alto Networks and leading QRNG technology partners, Anametric, ID Quantique, Qrypt, Quantinuum, Quantropi and Quside, the QRNG Open API will:

• Simplify QRNG integration by removing proprietary silos.
• Maximize interoperability in multi-vendor networks and promote freedom of choice, allowing customers to select the best technologies and systems for their needs, including both cloud-based and on-prem solutions.
• Accelerate QRNG adoption by removing barriers with a collaborative, open approach.
• Provide a common mechanism for obtaining high-quality entropy from an external QRNG platform.

QRNG Open API initiative partners commented:

Fernando de la Iglesia, VP of Product, Quside:

“As a leader in quantum technology, Quside is committed to advancing the adoption of quantum randomness in cybersecurity and high-performance computing. Our key objective is to make quantum randomness more accessible by reducing adoption barriers. The QRNG Open API initiative is crucial for establishing clear and robust guidelines that meet precise user needs.”

Kenny Huebsch, Director of Software Engineering, Qrypt:

“The biggest hurdle in helping organizations adopt quantum entropy isn’t convincing them of its value – it’s how complex it is to integrate into their systems..Driving toward a standard is an essential first step on a path to broader first-class support of quantum entropy sources.”

Wil Oxford, CEO, Anametric:

“Anametric is pleased to join the efforts of the QRNG Open API initiative. Establishing a standardized QRNG Open API is crucial for the cybersecurity landscape, facilitating the seamless transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Our collective expertise and collaboration will ensure that our digital infrastructure remains resilient, secure, and future-ready, safeguarding data in an increasingly quantum-enabled world.”

Duncan Jones, Head of Cybersecurity, Quantinuum:

“Participating in the QRNG Open API initiative enables us to work alongside other industry leaders to address a critical aspect of quantum safety that’s often overlooked – the quality of randomness used in cryptographic operations. By developing a common standard for access, we’re helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity today while ensuring they maintain flexibility for the future.”

Mike Redding, CTO, Quantropi:

“We believe that open standards are essential to give clients the confidence to adopt new technologies. Quantropi was honored to contribute our expertise to the QRNG Open API initiative to help make the Open API a reality. The Open API will allow clients to focus on the quality, reliability, security, and value of QRNG service offerings without the complication of evaluating implementation differences.”

Grégoire Ribordy, CEO, IDQuantique:

“ID Quantique (IDQ) commercializes quantum hardware and software systems compliant with the relevant applicable standards, ensuring smooth integration with existing security framework, infrastructures, and applications. Ultimately Quantum Entropy combined with existing security solutions improves the security of end-user data and organization infrastructure today and in the future. We were delighted to support Palo Alto Networks initiative to provide a QRNG Open API to customers.”

Gurugram, 23 January 2025: Emaar India, the Indian business entity of the globally renowned brand EMAAR, announced the launch of its latest luxury residential project, ‘Urban Ascent’ at Sector 112, Gurugram, strategically situated on Dwarka Expressway. The location is at the cusp of Delhi and Gurugram, offering easy access to robust physical and social infrastructure. Dwarka Expressway, since its inauguration, has been a hotbed of investment, especially for Delhi residents, owing to the ease of access it has created to both Gurugram business & entertainment hubs as well as to national capital-Delhi.

Urban Ascent, spanning 140,606 sq. m. (9.164 acres), is a statement of refined living, seamlessly blending modern luxury & convenience. The project offers a range of thoughtfully designed spacious 3 & 4 BHK residences to suit diverse customer needs, offering ample space for an opulent lifestyle. Urban Ascent boasts of seamless connectivity, being less than 0.5 Km from Dwarka Expressway, linking it to NH-48 providing quick access to Gurugram business hubs on one side and Yashobhoomi & Dwarka side of Delhi, on the other.

Safety & Elevated Lifestyle

The project strategically incorporates a central activity podium architecture designed that enhances safety, additionally, all amenities including the clubhouse, are designed and integrated on an elevated platform, eliminating any interference from vehicular movement. Furthermore, the living and dining areas are adorned with marble, seamless glass railings in the balcony, shower partition with frosted film in master toilet, modular kitchen with chimney & Hob and white goods like oven, microwave, refrigerator, washing machine & RO system.

Futuristic & Sustainable

Reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability, the project cultivates a vibrant landscape with over 350 native trees to be planted. Key sustainable features at this IGBC Gold pre-certified project include rainwater harvesting, water efficient plumbing fixtures, water waste recycling and reuse, environment friendly waste management, solar powered common area & provision for EV charging, ensuring a cleaner, greener environment for all residents.

Prime Connectivity

Urban Ascent offers seamless accessibility, located just 45 minutes from the airport, ensuring unmatched convenience for frequent travellers and effortless access for visitors. It offers seamless accessibility to the nearest Gurgaon railway station (6.8 Kms); Dwarka sector 25 metro station (5 Kms); and in close proximity to hospitals – Park Hospital (4.5 Kms), Columbia Asia Hospital (5.6 Kms), Manipal Hospital (6.1 Kms). Also, providing ease of access to educational institutes like – Orchids The International School (1.9 Kms), Shikshiyan School (4.7 Kms), Delhi Public School Sector 102 (8.5 Kms). The project is also close to commercial and retail destinations with EBD114Nxt, Arcade 114, Grand Central, Yashobhoomi Convention Center, within a radius of 8 Kms.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Kalyan Chakrabarti, CEO, Emaar India, said, “We are excited to launch our first project of 2025, Urban Ascent is more than just a residential project – it’s a lifestyle crafted for those who seek comfort, convenience and a connection to nature. In line with our ethos of building state-of-the-art project with excellent quality, innovation and transparency; this project is designed to offer our residents not just a home, but an elevated lifestyle enriched with world-class amenities, seamless connectivity, and sustainable living spaces. At Emaar, we are committed to creating spaces that people are proud to call home, and Urban Ascent is a reflection of that vision. We are dedicated to building communities that perfectly embody a sense of belonging coupled with a cohesive and congenial living experience.”

Urban Ascent offers thoughtfully curated amenities for each age group, accentuating the experience of luxury and the feel of living in an elite community, staying true to the values of sustainability.

Refined Living & Indulgence

For fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers, ‘Urban Ascent’ offers a safe and serene environment, featuring amenities like jogging track, yoga pavilion, Zen garden, and an open-air theatre and well-equipped gymnasium designed to promote an active and healthy lifestyle. The clubhouse of 36,000 sq. ft. built-up area includes premium facilities, such as a restaurant, café, banquet hall, squash court, indoor games area, and swimming pools for adults and kids, ensuring a lifestyle of convenience and luxury. Families can enjoy a multi-purpose court with tennis and basketball facility, kids’ play area, outdoor gymnasium, and pet park, perfect spaces for relaxation. Designed to enhance everyday living, the development seamlessly blends functionality with wellness and leisure.

Safe & Secure

Urban Ascent offers some of the latest safety and security amenities as a gated community, with biometric digital lock at apartment main door and video door phone. CCTV in the main entrance lobby, basement lobby, external periphery and inside lift cars. The tower lobby reception and main gate are equipped with VDP-cum-access control for enhanced security and convenience. Additionally, the Central Activity Podium ensures a vehicle free zone for all residents to enjoy nature within a safe environment.

Bengaluru, 23rd January 2025 – The celebrity actress and fashion icon Keerthy Suresh has unveiled 3 new ranges of products of Walkaroo-Classico, Urbanoz & Activebeads at “Trade Expo 2025” at Malabar Marina Convention Centre, Calicut. The Event was graced by Ms. Keerthy Suresh, Mr. Jacob Joy- President TIE Kerala, Mr. Nithyananth Kammath, President Malabar Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Anandamani, President, Calicut Management Association along with participation by industry leaders & channel partners.

The event showcased over 1000 new products designed for the upcoming summer season. The highlights included fresh designs in Walkaroo range, enhanced comfort in Walkaroo+ collection, light and fashionable EVA & Hawai products under Flip-Flopz and advanced Walkaroo Sportz.

Ms. Keerthy Suresh, Actor, opined that “Walkaroo’s new range is a perfect reflection of youthful energy and evolving fashion trends blending comfort for every occasion. Going beyond fashion, Walkaroo intends to incorporate aspects of foot-science through its new “know your foot” initiative.”

Mr. Noushad, MD of Walkaroo said “We want to be the customer’s most preferred footwear choice by meeting not just their functional needs, but also fashion aspirations with comfort. With our “know your foot” initiative, we intend to develop footwear solutions that support proper biomechanics of the body as foot is the Foundation of the body.”

The Channel Partners expressed their enthusiasm for the new range, “Walkaroo has been a trusted brand among customers as it stands for quality and variety. These new launches showcase aspirational products that are both trendy and affordable for the discerning customer.” Walkaroo continues to demonstrate its dedication to innovation, comfort, and style.

January 2025: TCL – a globally leading consumer electronics and TV brand has recently announced a Big Republic Day campaign – ‘Spin to Win Big’ on the occasion of the 76th Indian Republic Day. The ongoing campaign involves online and offline integration, giving customers across India a chance to win assured prizes with every purchase of TCL’s 55-inch and above model television.

Republic Day marks India’s transition to a sovereign republic, celebrating the adoption of the Constitution. It symbolizes unity, self-reliance and progress which makes this day a pivotal moment of national pride. For TCL, this day aligns with the values of innovation, inclusivity and an opportunity to connect with Indian consumers through such exclusive campaigns like the Big Republic Day Sale.

To participate, customers need to purchase any TCL television model of 55 inches or above from authorized TCL channel partners, Reliance Digital, Croma or TCL brand stores across PAN India. The offer is also valid for purchase from Amazon and Flipkart. Upon purchasing the product offline, customers will be provided with a QR code at the point of sale while the customers buying the product online will have to either visit the TCL India official website or the brand page to access the QR code. After scanning the code, customers will land on the contest page where they have to enter the required details and upload their purchase invoice. Participants can finally spin the virtual wheel and win the reward from Air Conditioners, Sound Bars, Washing Machines, TVs and gift vouchers.

Delighted with the offer, Mr. Philip Xia, General Manager of TCL India, said, “Republic Day is a time to celebrate unity and progress and we, at TCL India, are proud to bring both to the forefront with our ‘Spin to Win Big’ campaign. This campaign is an extension of our efforts to thank our customers for their trust in TCL and give them a unique opportunity to make their purchases even more memorable. In addition, we strive to deliver cutting-edge products and unparalleled experiences and this campaign exemplifies that commitment.”

The “Spin to Win Big” campaign adds excitement to customers’ Republic Day shopping while emphasizing the brand’s innovative and customer-centric approach. To participate, customers must register on the dedicated landing page after their purchase to claim their rewards. This seamless integration of purchasing options with an engaging online experience showcases TCL’s vision of delivering exceptional value and convenience.

With this campaign, TCL solidifies its position as a market leader in the industry to come up with exciting offers for customer-centricity. This exclusive offer is available on Reliance Digital, Croma, TCL brand stores, and authorized retail stores across PAN India.

Coimbatore, January 23, 2025: Vallaham Foundation—a legacy rooted in entrepreneurial vision and a commitment to creating meaningful change, has announced the recipients of its Vallaham Scholarship Program 2024. Highlighting its mission of addressing societal challenges and nurturing the next generation of leaders, House of Vallaham continues to inspire change through its impactful initiatives. The awardees were felicitated at Sir George William’s AC Hall, YMCA, Coimbatore.

Founded by entrepreneur and startup-strategist Christopher Sargunam, the organisation has built a reputation for empowering communities and creating sustainable, impactful businesses. Some of the remarkable ventures include: Nool Media, a branding and strategy hub; Saptingala, a quick-service restaurant chain focused on hygiene and affordability; Luxvel Travel, known for its boutique travel and event services; and Vayil, a construction company turning architectural dreams into reality. Together, these ventures reflect Vallaham’s vision for innovation and sustainability.

“The Vallaham Scholarship Program is more than just a financial aid to needy students. It is a bridge to opportunity and a witness to the transformative power of education. By nurturing this talented pool of individuals, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change that will in turn inspire others to dream big and achieve greater things,” said Christopher Sargunam, Founder of Vallaham Foundation.

This program was born out of Sargunam’s personal experiences with talented individuals who were not able to pursue their dreams due to financial restrictions. What started as a local initiative in Coimbatore soon extended across Tamil Nadu enabling promising candidates to access support.

A distinguished review committee, comprising educationists, administrators, and industry professionals, oversees the meticulous selection process. The panel includes Selene Vinodhini, Principal of Stanes Higher Secondary School; Vivek Jain, a leading chartered accountant; Narayanan, a retired administrator; Rev. Ebenezer Mani, a retired reverend; Sathi Sargunam, a philanthropist and retired businessman; and Ruth Sargunam, an educationist and entrepreneur.

The 2024 scholarship recipients embody Vallaham’s mission to nurture diverse talents. Kishor Muralidharan, from Coimbatore, aspires to be a movie director and has enrolled in a photography and videography course. Ananth Muralidharan, a resident of Trichy, seeks to expand his expertise through a course in digital marketing. Shriram N, from Coimbatore, is a final-year mechanical engineering student requiring support to complete his degree.

Through the Vallaham Scholarship Program, the foundation invests not only in individual futures but also in societal progress, fostering capable and empowered professionals who will contribute to their communities. This initiative stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of supporting aspirations with sincerity and vision.

New Delhi, 23.01.2015 –   iEducation, a trusted name in modern education solutions, has joined hands with MESOS Business School to launch a suite of innovative online programs, including degree and diploma courses in Entrepreneurship, Cyber Security, Project Management, and Data Analytics. These programs are tailored to meet the evolving needs of students and working professionals, offering a global edge in today’s highly competitive industries.

The collaboration combines MESOS Business School’s expertise in delivering world-class education with iEducation’s mission to make quality learning accessible to everyone. Each program is carefully crafted to provide a blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on practice, ensuring students are equipped to meet real-world challenges in their respective fields.

With a flexible online format, learners can access globally recognized certifications while balancing work and personal commitments. Modules are taught by renowned academics and industry practitioners, providing students with mentorship, global insights, and cutting-edge skills. The programs also feature practical projects, interactive tools, and access to the Mesos Entrepreneurs and Professionals Community, a worldwide network of mentors and peers.

Mr. Kapil Rampal, Director of iEducation, shared his thoughts on the collaboration, stating, “These online programs represent a significant step forward in making world-class education available to everyone. Whether it’s Entrepreneurship, Cyber Security, Project Management, or Data Analytics, these fields are critical to today’s economy, and we are proud to offer programs that prepare students for success in these high-growth domains.”

What sets these programs apart is the added benefit of placement assistance with some of the world’s leading organizations, including Renault, Airbus, Capgemini, and L’Oréal. Furthermore, students can earn ECTS credits transferable to MESOS Business School’s advanced programs, enabling continued academic and professional growth.

To make it even more accessible, iEducation offers a special opportunity for students to secure their enrollment by paying only the registration fee. This initiative ensures that aspiring learners can join these prestigious programs without delay.

Prayagraj, India – Renowned spiritual leader, Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj, has organized a special Shivir in Prayagraj during the auspicious Mahakumbh Mela. The Shivir is present at Plot 46, Sector 6 Naag Vasuki Road, Prayagraj from January 21st to 23rd, 2025, and February 4th to 7th, 2025. This Shivir is open to all the pilgrims who want to immerse themselves in spiritual activities.

This Shivir is organized under the guidance of Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj and Dr. Archika Didi with an objective to connect with innerself and cleansing one’s soul by engaging in activities like morning Dip in the Sangam (confluence Yamuna, Ganga and Saraswati), accompanied by the chanting of Vedic mantras. Throughout this spiritual journey, attendees can engage in various divine activities including Yajna (sacred fire rituals), yoga sessions, meditation, satsang (spiritual discourse), storytelling, and the Amrit Ganga Maha Aarti (grand worship ceremony).

As part of his commitment to serving humanity, Shri Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj has also organized Bhandara (free community meal) and quilt distribution to the needy and Gau Pujan (cow worship) as a mark of reverence for all living beings.

Mahakumbh, a 45-day long spiritual event started with Amrit Snan on 14th January 2024 (Makar Sankranti) and will conclude on 26th February 2025. It is a time when followers of various deities come together under one umbrella showcasing the prowess of Sanatan Dharma.

Maharaj Ji believes that the event’s organization is flawlessly executed, showcasing a seamless blend of meticulous planning and spiritual devotion. He mentioned “This Mahakumbh is a rare celestial event that offers a profound opportunity for spiritual awakening and liberation. I would like to express my gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister hon’ Shri Yogi Adityanath ji and hon’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for their dedicated efforts in creating a world-class infrastructure for the Mahakumbh.”

The Mahakumbh Mela is not just a religious gathering; it is a cultural and social phenomenon that attracts millions of visitors from across the globe. Some of the prominent dignitaries and celebrities are also immersing themselves in the divinity of Mahakumbh. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the timeless traditions of India.

23rd January 2025: ITC Mangaldeep, India’s leading incense brand, is setting a bold precedent in devotional engagement by integrating cutting-edge 3D Augmented Reality (AR) technology to redefine spiritual experiences for the Maha Kumbh 2025. This innovative initiative offers devotees a virtual gateway to immerse themselves in the sacred rituals of the Maha Kumbh, bringing traditions like the Shahi Snaan (royal bath), Deep Daan (lamp offering), and Aarti (prayer ceremony) directly to their homes. By blending the timeless essence of faith with modern technology, ITC Mangaldeep not only enriches devotion but also broadens access to one of the world’s most revered spiritual gatherings.

Occurring once every 12 years, the rare and revered Maha Kumbh is the largest spiritual convergence on Earth, where over 400 million devotees are expected to unite in 2025 for a collective celebration of faith. Recognizing that millions may not be able to participate physically, ITC Mangaldeep’s AR-powered initiative bridges the gap, ensuring the transformative spirit of the Maha Kumbh reaches every corner of the world.

Through an exclusive AR experience, ITC Mangaldeep introduces a personalized devotional filter that allows users to create unique Maha Kumbh souvenirs. Devotees can virtually participate in the rituals, capture their spiritual moments, and share them with loved ones, spreading the divine energy beyond the sacred grounds.

Adding to this innovation, Mangaldeep is organizing a hybrid Deep Daan ceremony, where virtual offerings made by AR users are physically carried to the Ganges each week. This seamless integration of digital and physical realms creates a deeply personal connection, ensuring that the essence of the Maha Kumbh is experienced both individually and collectively.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Gaurav Tayal, Divisional CEO, Matches and Agarbatti Division, ITC, said, “The Maha Kumbh is more than an event; it is a profound confluence of faith, tradition, and, spirituality. At ITC Mangaldeep, we are honored to bring this sacred experience closer to millions who may not physically attend. Our AR initiative goes beyond bridging distances—it deepens the connection between tradition and innovation, ensuring the divine reaches all, irrespective of boundaries.”

ITC Mangaldeep’s initiative reaffirms its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and cultural preservation by blending ancient traditions with modern technology. By enabling universal access to the Maha Kumbh, the brand positions itself as a harbinger of transformative spiritual experiences, elevating the connection between devotees and the divine.

With this pioneering campaign, ITC Mangaldeep empowers audiences to engage with the Maha Kumbh like never before, offering a first-of-its-kind AR journey that captures the spirit of devotion in the digital age. This initiative is a testament to how technology can amplify faith and tradition, inspiring a new era of spiritual engagement.

Bangalore, India, January 23, 2025: ISACA, the leading global professional association dedicated to advancing careers in digital trust, has released its State of Privacy 2025 survey report, highlighting increasing stress levels among privacy professionals in India and worldwide. Despite progress in privacy staffing and strategic alignment, professionals continue to face mounting pressures amid a rapidly evolving compliance and risk environment.

The global survey, which gathered insights from over 1,600 professionals, including 126 from India, reveals that 53% of privacy professionals in India find their roles more stressful than five years ago, with 29% experiencing a significant increase in stress levels. The primary stress drivers include the rapid evolution of technology (76%), compliance challenges (67%), and resource shortages (57%).

The report highlights critical challenges in India’s privacy landscape, particularly in training and data security:

• Data Breaches & Leakage: 42% of respondents globally identified data breaches as a concern, compared to 49% from India.

• Lack of Training: 47% of respondents worldwide cited inadequate training as a major issue compared to 53% from India.
• Training & Awareness Gaps:
  • 49% of global respondents said privacy training is included in new hire programs, compared to 53% from India.
  • For global and India-based respondents, 6% of each reported no privacy training.

These figures indicate a pressing need for enhanced training and awareness programs in India to mitigate privacy risks effectively.

A Challenging Landscape

Indian respondents identified three primary challenges affecting privacy programs: a lack of competent resources (46%), managing risks associated with new technologies (40%), and unclear mandates, roles, and responsibilities (37%). Resource allocation remains a mixed landscape, as 44% of Indian respondents believe their privacy budgets are appropriately funded, while 36% globally perceive underfunding as a concern. Encouragingly, 51% of Indian respondents anticipate a budget increase in the coming year. There are some challenges that come with hiring , with 70% stating that expert-level privacy professionals are the hardest to recruit.

Additionally, privacy professionals struggle with compliance clarity, as only 37% of India-based organizations find it easy to understand privacy obligations, while 19% consider it difficult.

Respondents from India also provided insights into their most common privacy failures, listing lack of training or poor training (53%), data breaches (49%), not performing a risk analysis (43%) and non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations (43%) in the top three.

“As India’s digital economy expands, organizations must tackle skill shortages, evolving compliance demands, and emerging technology risks. Prioritizing continuous training, privacy awareness, and privacy by design is crucial to strengthening compliance, mitigating risks, and fostering long-term digital trust, positioning organizations for sustainable success in an increasingly data-driven world.” says RV Raghu, director, Versatilist Consulting India Pvt Ltd, and ISACA India Ambassador. Bright Spots

Despite these challenges, the research highlights several encouraging trends. While the median privacy staff size has seen a slight decline from the previous year, fewer respondents report understaffing in technical and legal/compliance roles, indicating some progress in workforce stabilization. Additionally, 81% of Indian respondents affirm that their privacy strategy aligns with organizational objectives, and 63% believe their boards of directors adequately prioritize privacy. Indian organizations are also demonstrating a strong commitment to compliance, with 89% leveraging frameworks or regulations to manage privacy and 69% enforcing documented privacy policies and procedures. Twenty-nine percent of Indian organizations believe they are unlikely to experience a material privacy breach in the next 12 months.

Privacy by Design as a Differentiator

The survey underscores the importance of privacy by design, with 76 percent of Indian respondents practicing this approach when building new applications and services. Enterprises that integrate privacy into the engineering process report:

The survey found that enterprises based in India that always practice privacy by design are more likely to:

• Have high confidence in their privacy teams (68% versus 48% total in India)
• Believe their technical privacy area is appropriately staffed (52% versus 45% total in India)
• Believe their boards of directors prioritize privacy (77% versus 55% total in India)

“When privacy is aligned with business objectives, integrated with a privacy by design approach, and viewed as both an ethical and compliance responsibility, organizations stand to gain tremendous value,” says Safia Kazi, ISACA Principal, Privacy Professional Practices. “Enterprises must prioritize and advance their privacy programs by leveraging emerging technology, frameworks, training, and best practices to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape.”