Discover the New Barbie Mini Game on Kiddopia®

Mattel in collaboration with Nazara Technologies Limited, today announced the launch of Chef Barbie™, an all-new cooking mini game within the educational kids app, Kiddopia® that allows players to cook with Barbie and prepare dishes like sushi, tacos, ramen, and waffles.

 This is the first of several Barbie-themed mini games set to roll out on Kiddopia throughout the year. In Chef Barbie, kids get to do everything from chopping vegetables to making guacamole, all the while building their vocabulary, boosting their general knowledge, and developing their motor skills.

Since 1959, Barbie has inspired limitless potential in every girl, sparking imaginations and shaping futures through play. With over a billion dolls sold—more than 100 every minute—Barbie is the number one doll property. As the most diverse doll line on the market, the Barbie brand brings a unique voice across multiple platforms to engage a wide range of audiences. From highlighting global role models to having a resume with over 250 careers and counting, Barbie continues to show that you can be anything.

Chef Barbie marks Nazara Technologies Limited’s second IP-based partnership for Kiddopia, reinforcing its mission of blending fun with education and offering exciting games that entertain and promote learning among preschoolers.

The mini game is now available for download in the Kiddopia app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.  A subscription is required to access the app and play all games.

TMM 2025 Reaffirms Sport’s Role in Social Change, Raises 53.62 Crores for Causes

Mumbai, 18th April 2025: As the Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM) draws the curtain on the successful conclusion of its landmark 20th edition, it continues to stand as a shining example of how sport can serve as a powerful driver of social change. What began as a vision to inspire and unite communities—and bring pride to the host city—has now firmly established itself as a movement for social good and catalyst for a health and fitness revolution that is sweeping across the nation. With the support of 275 NGOs, TMM 2025 has raised an outstanding sum of INR 53.62 crores for social causes, underscoring the spirit of #ChangeBegan Here and the power of collective action.

Spearheaded by United Way Mumbai, the official philanthropy partner, the Tata Mumbai Marathon continues to inspire individuals and institutions alike by fostering deeper community engagement, driving social change, and enabling corporates to run for a cause.

This year’s milestone is a powerful reflection of the dedication shown by its participants—963 individual fundraisers, 165 corporates, 20,358 donors, and 13,000 runners—united in support of 275 NGOs working across vital sectors such as healthcare, education, animal welfare, environment, women’s empowerment, livelihood, and community development. While TMM provides the platform, the true credit goes to these organizations and their steadfast commitment to driving grassroots impact. By bringing together diverse stakeholders for a shared purpose, the Tata Mumbai Marathon continues to champion the spirit of collective action for a better tomorrow – #HarDilMumbai.

Since its inception, the Tata Mumbai Marathon has consistently broken barriers, serving as a platform that has helped raise over INR 483.20 crores, benefiting 1000+ NGOs across various causes.

 Shri Rahul Narvekar Hon’ble Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Govt. of Maharashtra, said “The Tata Mumbai Marathon is not just a sporting event—it is a celebration of unity, resilience, and collective progress. Unlike many events that focus solely on brand-building or generating wealth, this marathon stands as a symbol of nation-building and community empowerment. Year after year, it brings people together across social and economic backgrounds, offering a platform not only to athletes but to every individual striving for change, support, or recognition. It gives Mumbai a renewed identity—beyond monuments and festivals, it now stands as a city of spirit, inclusivity, and strength. Events like this deserve wholehearted support, for they reflect the very best of what society can achieve when it moves forward together.”

Adrian Terron, Head, Corporate Brand and Marketing, Tata Sons, said “At the Tata Group we see the Tata Mumbai Marathon, as yet another beacon of hope and a catalyst for social change. This platform exemplifies the power of collective action and the spirit of giving back to the community at the heart of our organization’s own purpose. The positive impact on various social causes reaffirms our commitment to building a better, more inclusive society. Together, we are not just running a marathon; we are running towards a brighter future for all.”

Shri Bhushan Gagrani, IAS, Commissioner, MCGM, said “The Tata Mumbai Marathon exemplifies how the spirit of giving enriches us all. It is heartening to witness sports and philanthropy come together so seamlessly, creating a platform that not only celebrates human endurance but also uplifts countless lives. My compliments to Procam and all those associated with this remarkable initiative that continues to inspire and make a lasting impact.”

Ujjwal Mathur – President, India Business & Strategic Accounts – Growth Markets, TCS, said “The Tata Mumbai Marathon is not just a sporting event — it’s a movement for social good. Every step taken in the marathon echoes with the spirit of giving, resilience, and unity. As the marathon continues to achieve new milestones, TCS is proud to see the event evolve into Asia’s biggest and most prestigious marathon. It has become one of India’s largest sporting platforms for philanthropy, powering causes that range from healthcare and education to women’s empowerment and environmental sustainability. Together, we’re not just running a marathon — we’re accelerating meaningful change, one cause at a time.”

George Aikara, CEO, United Way Mumbai, said, “Each year at the TMM, I’m filled with awe and gratitude for the extraordinary commitment shown by our partner NGOs in building the TMM philanthropy platform. Every philanthropic milestone we celebrate is a direct result of their tireless efforts in galvanizing supporters, individuals, and corporates alike, to embrace this powerful sporting platform for a greater social purpose.

We witnessed nearly a thousand remarkable individuals stepping up, raising funds and rallying support for causes they deeply believe in. It was especially gratifying to see exceptional philanthropists like Dr. Bijal Mehta, Shyam Jasani, Dr. Meera Mehta, Sadashiv S Rao, Utppal Mehta, Sunit Kothari, and Villy Doctor once again achieve Change Legend status by raising over ₹1 crore each. We are equally delighted to welcome Ajay H Mehta and Gagan Banga into this illustrious group. Their efforts remind us that when purpose meets passion, the impact can be truly transformative.”

Naarayan TV, CMO, IDFC FIRST Bank, said, “At IDFC FIRST Bank, we believe in the power of community to inspire meaningful change. The Tata Mumbai Marathon exemplifies this spirit—bringing together individuals and organizations in pursuit of a common purpose: to uplift lives and support impactful causes. As a bank with a deep-rooted commitment to social good, we are honoured to support an event that transcends sport, celebrates inclusivity, compassion, and real progress in society.”

Launched in 2024, the TMM Agro Forest initiative has proven that small steps by a community can lead to large-scale environmental and social change. Last year, over ₹32.48 lakhs were raised, enabling the plantation of 5,116 trees and offering direct livelihood support in Solapur district, Maharashtra.

Continuing its upward journey, over ₹41.57 lakhs was raised through contributions from 2,200+ runners and corporates this year, leading to 6,547 trees to be planted through integrated agroforestry practices. Guided by United Way Mumbai, the initiative supports both the environment and farmer livelihoods, each tree aiding in soil conservation, carbon reduction, and sustainable farming. What began in Solapur has grown into a long-term TMM commitment, with a growing community of changemakers turning strides into sustainability.

Cause, Neutrality, Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability form the core principles of the Tata Mumbai Marathon’s philanthropy pillar. Through consistent efforts, this platform has helped establish a more structured and credible model of giving for  CSO’s  across India. With sustainability as its cornerstone, the initiative has also seen a steady rise in corporate participation, with more companies choosing to invest in social good through these charities year after year.

Vivek Singh, Jt. MD. Procam International said When Anil and I dreamt of bringing a marathon to India, we knew it had to be more than just a race. We planted five seeds of purpose—one of which was to create an inclusive charity platform that gave back to the very society we were running in. From day one, the Tata Mumbai Marathon was about meaning and movement—and today, its most significant legacy is purpose.

The philanthropy pillar has only grown stronger with every edition. The Tata Mumbai Marathon has become a platform where individuals, corporates, NGOs, and communities unite to drive change. Our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and United Way Mumbai for their tireless commitment towards anchoring the philanthropy pillar. The Tata Mumbai Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a reminder that when a community runs with heart, it doesn’t just cross finish lines, it redefines them.”

2025 IN NUMBERS: 

  • NGOs participating – 275
  • Corporates participating – 165
  • Corporate teams – 246
  • Individuals signing up to raise funds – 1446
  • Active fundraisers – 963
  • Change Runners (fundraisers who raise over INR 1.75Lakh) – 203

AWARD RECIPIENTS – INSPIRING CHANGE & TRANSFORMING LIVES 

Highest fundraising NGOs:

  1. Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care – INR 13,67,39,437
  2. Light of Life Trust – INR 5,12,74,405
  3. United Way Mumbai – INR 4,74,09,382
  4. ADHAR – INR 2,36,83,068
  5. Isha Education – INR 1,88,55,820

Highest fundraising Corporate Team:

  1. Me-Hin Tech Edge Solutions – INR 1,19,74,704, for ADHAR
  2. Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd. –  INR 76,11,144 for NASEOH, NCC EXPA, and War Wounded Foundation
  3. Panasonic Life Solutions India Private Limited – INR 13,45,207 for  United Way Mumbai

TMM Change Legends (Individuals who have raised ₹ 1 crore and above):

  1. Dr. Bijal Mehta –  INR 3,26,60,000 for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care
  2. Shyam Jasani – INR 1,87,00,026 for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care
  3. Dr. Meera Mehta – INR 1,25,00,026 for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care
  4. Sadashiv S Rao – INR 1,18,77,300 for Isha Education
  5. Utppal Mehta – INR 1,13,25,026 for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care
  6. Sunit Kothari – INR 1,10,00,026 for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care
  7. Ajay H Mehta – INR 1,09,92,552 for ADHAR
  8. Villy Doctor – INR 1,09,32,405 for Light of Life Trust
  9. Gagan Banga – INR 1,03,82,007 for Seva Sadan Society

Change Icons (Individuals who have raised between INR 50,00,000 to INR 99,99,999):

  1. Vivek Kudva – INR 70,44,547 for United Way Mumbai
  2. Fr. George Vattamattathil – INR 50,12,700 for Karunya Trust

Change Champions  (Individuals who have raised between INR 25,00,000 to INR 49,99,000):

  1. Dr. Nirmal Surya – INR 46,00,593 for Epilepsy Foundation
  2. Naveenchandra Hegde – INR 33,00,628 for Tapasya Foundation
  3. Sudhir Shenoy – INR 32,19,451 for Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation
  4. Rakesh Palakurti – INR 31,62,198 for Isha Education

Young Leaders (Individuals below 21 years of age who have raised a minimum of INR 1,00,000):

  1. Shaurya Gagan Banga – INR 61,02,500 (also a Change Icon for OSCAR Foundation)
  2. Anyssa Kothari – INR 25,11,200 (also a Change Champion for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care)
  3. Anaisha Talsania – INR 1,825,000 (also a Change Leader for Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care)

Good News for Skilled Indian Construction Workers

Construction was placed at the heart of the UK’s economy during Rachel Reeves’ spring statement. She pledged that a total of 1.3 million homes will be built in the UK by the financial year 2029-2030, boosting the stock of affordable housing by £2bn.

£600 million has been allocated to train up to 60,000 new British construction workers through various educational and apprenticeship programs, but Mr Yash Dubal, Director of London-based A Y & J Solicitors believes this will not be enough, and that in order to meet the targets, construction firms will have to recruit from overseas.

“Despite these initiatives, the UK construction sector faces significant labour shortages,” said Mr Dubal. “Recent data indicates that 16% of construction businesses are experiencing worker shortages, making it the second-most affected sector in the UK.”

The Construction Skills Network (CSN) reports that approximately 225,000 new construction workers are needed by 2027 to meet demand. And certain trades within the construction industry are experiencing more acute shortages. Specific roles such as bricklayers and civil engineers are in particularly high demand.

For this reason, Indian construction professionals seeking employment in the UK should investigate opportunities under the Skilled Worker visa route, which requires a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor and covers a range of skilled roles within the construction sector.

Jobs eligible for skilled worker visas include bricklayers, stonemasons, roofers, roof tilers and slaters, carpenters and joiners, window fitters, plasterers and painters and decorators. While there is a salary threshold attached to most Skilled Worker visas of £38,700, many construction roles benefit from a reduction to this due to acute shortages, down to £30,960. Bricklayers, roofers and carpenters fall into this category.

Mr Dubal continued, “Skilled tradesmen in the UK can earn high salaries. The UK’s ambitious construction targets and existing labour shortages create substantial opportunities for skilled Indian construction workers. By understanding the visa options and aligning their skills with the UK’s needs, Indian professionals can significantly contribute to the UK’s construction industry while advancing their careers.”

Dream, Together’ with Sonata’s Wedding Collection for the Modern Couple

Bengaluru, April 18th 2025: Weddings mark the beginning of a new chapter, where connections, values and aspirations seamlessly intertwine to create a shared future. Today weddings are evolving to embrace each other’s personal identity while building a relationship that fosters support and mutual growth. Embracing this evolving narrative, Sonata, India’s largest-selling watch brand from Titan, unveils its latest wedding collection centered around the ‘Dream, Together’ theme, reinforcing its position as the ultimate destination for wedding watches.

Marriage is more than just a union of two individuals; it is a start of a new chapter, a fresh journey into shared dreams, aspirations and a lifetime of experiences. Dream, Together captures the essence of what this milestone means to a modern couple: a blend of tradition and modernity, commitment and conviction. The narrative positions Sonata as an ideal companion for those who carve out their identity in relationships and build a shared future, with thoughtfulness and confidence.

The wedding collection reflects this very sentiment, making it perfect for young couples who wish to leave a lasting impression on their special day. Blending traditions with new-age design, the collection features sleek, well-defined silhouettes and an artful medley of detailing and bold accents. Featuring designs that combine contemporary sophistication, a hint of sparkle and a whole lot of glamour, Sonata’s wedding range is more than a statement piece or a thoughtful gift; it is a reflection of the wearer’s personality and aspirations, as they prepare to walk the aisle. Whether paired with a traditional ensemble or a contemporary look, these timepieces elevate every wedding celebration with effortless style and refined confidence.

With this, the brand reflects the spirit of the upstart generation who embrace new beginnings with passion, enthusiasm and ambition. As a gift or symbol of self-love, these timepieces become the perfect choice for brides, grooms, groomsmen, bridesmaids, and loved ones who wish to mark the occasion with something truly meaningful.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Prateek Gupta, Marketing Head, Sonata said, “Today’s ambitious upstarts are apprehensive when it comes to commitment because they think it may hinder their personal growth. However, partnerships are pathways to broaden dreams, not limit them. At Sonata, we recognize that weddings symbolize the union of two futures. Through our ‘Dream, Together’ narrative, we highlight the transformative power of shared time over individual time, celebrating the synergy of two individuals who, when together elevate each other’s goals.”

Starting at INR 2495, explore the Sonata Wedding Collection at Titan World outlets or online at www.sonatawatches.in. Embrace your new journey with style and celebrate your shared journey with Sonata.

Axiro Drives India’s Semiconductor Growth with High-Scale Chip Design Launch

Bengaluru 18th April 2025 : Axiro Semiconductor Pvt Ltd today announced the grand opening of its state-of-the-art fabless semiconductor design centre in Whitefield, Bengaluru. As India’s first fabless semiconductor company operating at scale—with millions of ICs shipped monthly to global leaders like Ericsson, Nokia, Hughes, and Siemens—Axiro is poised to fuel innovation across high-impact sectors including 5G/6G, strategic defence, satellite communications, and industrial IoT.

Axiro is an innovation-led company building next-generation chip solutions designed in India and manufactured globally through strategic partnerships. With a focus on cutting-edge semiconductor design, Axiro is empowering India’s technology landscape by delivering world-class silicon that meets international performance and reliability standards.

Strengthening this commitment, CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd, a Murugappa Group company, recently invested $36 million, marking CG Power’s formal entry into the semiconductor design business and positioning the Murugappa Group at the forefront of India’s ambition to become a global semiconductor hub.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent leaders from industry and government, including Mr. Sushil Pal, CEO of ISM; Mr. Vellayan Subbiah, Chairman of CG Power and Industrial Solutions (Axiro’s parent company) and Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company; Mr. R. R. Tiwary, Representative from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY); Mr. Gauraw Srivastava, Representative from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT); Dr. Naveen Yanduru, CEO of Axiro Semiconductor; and Mr. Anshumaan Ravi Swaminathan, Non-Executive Director of Axiro Semiconductor.

Axiro’s fabless model enables a sharp focus on chip design and IP creation while leveraging global foundries for production, ensuring rapid scalability, cost optimization, and high performance.

Its new Bengaluru facility is designed as a modern innovation hub, with advanced design labs, ergonomic collaborative spaces, and expansion-ready infrastructure to accommodate a doubling of its R&D team in 2026. The company is also committed to environmentally sustainable operations with a strategic ESG roadmap underway.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Sushil Pal, CEO of ISM, emphasized the national strategic importance of indigenous semiconductor design capabilities. “Axiro is a milestone for India’s semiconductor mission. It reflects the vision of self-reliance with global relevance,” he stated.

Highlighting the importance of close collaboration with technology partners and academic institutions to foster innovation in semiconductor design, Mr. Vellayan Subbiah, Chairman of CG Power and Industrial Solutions (Axiro’s parent company), stated that breakthrough innovations and an unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to propel Axiro Semiconductor forward. The company aims to deliver cutting-edge solutions for AI, automotive, and IoT applications, further accelerating India’s integration into the global semiconductor value chain.

Mutual Fund Trends: Strategic Discipline Amid Uncertainty

By Rishabh Goel, Managing Director, Tailwind Financial Services

March 2025 marked a period of significant flux in India’s mutual fund industry, shaped by shifting investor sentiment, global economic uncertainty, and market volatility. Amid falling inflows and rising stoppage rates, the underlying story remains one of resilience, long-term opportunity, and the importance of smart investing.

A Dip in Equity Inflows, But Retail Interest Holds Strong

Net inflows into equity mutual funds dropped to an 11-month low of Rs 25,082 crore in March, continuing a three-month downward trend. This 40% decline compared to October 2024 may be attributed to global trade tensions, rising interest rates, and fears of a broader economic slowdown. However, a notable counter-trend emerged: the number of equity folios grew by 14.5 lakh, suggesting strong retail investor interest. Equity-oriented funds now account for nearly 70% of all mutual fund folios.

Risk-On Behavior: Small and Mid-Cap Preference

Despite increased volatility, investors continue to favor mid and small-cap funds, with March inflows of Rs 3,439 crore and Rs 4,092 crore, respectively. While these categories offer the potential for higher returns, they come with higher risk—a tradeoff not all investors are equipped to manage.

Sectoral Funds See Sharp Pullback

Contrasting the enthusiasm for mid and small caps, sectoral and thematic fund inflows collapsed from Rs 5,712 crore in February to just Rs 170 crore in March. This suggests a pullback from high-risk, concentrated investment themes.

Large Cap Funds: An Underappreciated Safe Haven

In a surprising twist, large cap funds received relatively muted inflows of Rs 2,479 crore. Given their historical stability and ability to weather downturns, investors may be missing an opportunity to balance their risk exposure.

SIP Stoppage Ratio Rises Sharply

A critical indicator of investor sentiment, the SIP stoppage ratio jumped to 128.27% in March, up from 122.76% in February. Over 51 lakh SIPs were closed or matured, compared to just 40 lakh new registrations. This suggests investors are becoming more cautious or reevaluating their investment choices. For FY 2024-25, the stoppage ratio stood at 75.63%, up from 52.41% the year before.

Marginal Dip in SIP Inflows, but AUM Continues to Grow

SIP inflows dipped slightly to Rs 25,926 crore in March from Rs 25,999 crore in February, reflecting marginal caution. Yet, overall Assets Under Management (AUM) for equity mutual funds grew 7.5% to Rs 29.5 lakh crore, supported by a market rally that saw the BSE Sensex gain 5.8%.

Total AUM for the mutual fund industry reached Rs 65.74 lakh crore in March, a 23% year-over-year increase, reflecting overall industry resilience.

What Should Investors Do?

Given the current environment, here are some thoughtful strategies for investors:

  1. Don’t Chase Past Returns: Avoid investing in funds solely based on recent performance, especially small cap, mid cap, and thematic funds. Past returns do not predict future outcomes.
  2. Understand Risk-Return Tradeoffs: Recognize the risk profile of each fund category. Higher returns typically come with higher risk. Align your choices with your personal risk appetite.
  3. Evaluate Fund Fundamentals: Look beyond returns. Assess risk ratios, fund manager credentials, the consistency of performance, expense ratios, and the fund house’s investment process.
  4. Be Selective with NFOs: Not every New Fund Offer is worth your money. Only consider NFOs with a strong investment rationale and robust management pedigree.
  5. Personalize Your Portfolio: There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Choose schemes based on your age, financial goals, investment horizon, and risk tolerance. Avoid herd behavior.
  6. Use Volatility to Your Advantage: Use market corrections to make staggered lump-sum investments. Volatility can be an opportunity when approached with discipline.
  7. Stay Committed to SIPs: Avoid stopping SIPs mid-way. Doing so can interrupt compounding and derail your financial goals. SIPs are designed to thrive through market cycles.

Final Thoughts

While the mutual fund industry is navigating a phase of increased caution and realignment, the long-term outlook remains strong. Investors who stay focused on fundamentals, follow a disciplined approach, and align their investments with personal goals will be better positioned to benefit from market recovery.

The road ahead requires clarity, patience, and prudence. But with the right strategy, mutual funds continue to offer a powerful pathway to long-term wealth creation.

World Heritage Day: Heritage Properties Shine as Prime Wedding Destinations

New Delhi, India – April 18, 2025 – As the world celebrates World Heritage Day on April 18th, a fascinating trend is emerging within India’s vibrant tourism sector; the increasing popularity of heritage properties as wedding venues. This coincides with a significant rise in cross-cultural marriages, further fueling the growth of the tourism market and adding a unique dimension to the preservation and appreciation of India’s rich heritage.

Once stately homes, palaces, and forts are now witnessing the blossoming of marital unions, drawn by their majestic architecture, historical significance, and the promise of a unique and memorable celebration. This trend is particularly appealing to couples opting for cross-section marriages, where the blend of diverse cultural backgrounds finds a harmonious backdrop in the timeless elegance of heritage locations.

The convergence of these trends is creating a significant boost for the tourism industry. Heritage properties, often located in historically rich but sometimes less-visited areas, are experiencing a revitalization. This influx of wedding-related tourism supports local economies, generates employment opportunities, and encourages the upkeep and preservation of these invaluable architectural treasures.

“World Heritage Day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of safeguarding our cultural legacy,” says Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).”The increasing trend of hosting weddings in heritage properties, especially cross-cultural unions, not only provides stunning backdrops for these significant life events but also contributes to the economic viability and conservation of these sites. It’s a beautiful synergy where celebration meets preservation” she further added.

To further amplify this growth, there is a pressing need to introduce single-window clearances for visas and event permits, which would ease the process for both international and domestic guests. Simpler methods for registering marriages—especially those involving foreign nationals or different faiths—can enhance the overall experience. Additionally, maintaining cleanliness and improving the accessibility of heritage properties can significantly enhance their appeal. Investing in skill development, especially in the area of hospitality, will ensure that visitors experience the warmth, professionalism, and cultural richness that India is known for..

This World Heritage Day, let’s celebrate the changing role of our historical sites. They are not just reminders of the past, but also bridges for cultural exchange and sources of economic growth through new and exciting tourism trends. By preserving them with care and embracing these changes wisely, we can keep India’s rich heritage alive for future generations.

HDFC Life Delivers: Strong APE and VNB Growth, Market Share Up 70 bps

Mumbai, 18th Apr, 2025: The Board of Directors of HDFC Life approved and adopted the audited standalone and consolidated financial results for the year ended March 31, 2025. The Company grew faster than the sector, whilst delivering healthy performance across all key metrics.

Performance Highlights: 

  • Topline Growth: Delivered strong individual APE growth of 18%, supported by increase in both number of policies sold and ticket size and a balanced product mix
  • Market Share: Overall market share (individual WRP) increased by 70 bps to 11.1% for the period 11MFY25. Private sector market share stood at 15.7%, an increase of 30 bps
  • Value of New Business (VNB) grew by 13% to ₹ 3,962 crore, reflecting robust growth in profitable business
  • Assets under Management (AUM): AUM stood at ₹ 3,36,282 lakh crore as on 31st March 2025, an increase of 15% YoY
  • Persistency: Our persistency for the 13th and 61st months stood at a strong 87% and 63%, Notably, our 61st-month persistency saw a significant improvement of 1000 basis points, demonstrating the company’s deep customer engagement and effective retention initiatives
  • Embedded Value (EV) grew by 17% and stood at ₹ 55,423 crore, with 7% operating return on EV, showcasing sustained long-term value creation for shareholders
  • Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹ 1,802 crore was achieved in 12M FY25, clocking a steady growth of 15% year-on-year, helped by an 18% increase in profit emergence from our back book. The Board has recommended a final dividend of ₹ 2.1 per share, in line with our dividend payout policy, aggregating to a payout of about ₹ 452 crore.
  • Solvency Ratio stood at 194%, comfortably above the regulatory threshold of 150%
  • Employee Focus: certified as Great Place to Work in 2025, highlighting commitment to employee well-being. Also recognized amongst the top 50 organisations for building a culture of innovation by Great Place to Work. HDFC Life was recognised for its inclusivity and employee-friendly policies, being awarded the Best Companies for Women in India 2024 in the BFSI sector and Exemplar of Inclusion (Most Inclusive Companies India 2024) by Avtar & Seramount

CEO’s Statement:

Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director and CEO of HDFC Life, commented: “FY25 was a year where we deepened our reach, continued sharpening our value propositions and demonstrated the resilience of our business model. We are happy to report an 18% growth in Individual APE for FY25, in line with our stated growth aspirations for the year. Our overall industry market share expanded by 70 bps to 11.1% and by 30 bps to 15.7% within the private sector.

Retail protection continued to show strong momentum with APE growth of 25%. All channels registered double-digit growth. We continue to enhance customer experience through intuitive digital platforms, with over 90% of service requests now handled via self-service.

As we enter our 25th year of existence, our aspiration remains, against a backdrop of a stable regulatory regime, to consistently outpace sector topline growth, deliver VNB growth in line with APE growth and double key metrics every 4 to 4.5 years.”

Key Financial Summary

₹ Crore 12M FY25 12M FY24 YoY
Key Financial and Actuarial Metrics
Individual APE 13,619 11,509 18%
Total APE 15,479 13,291 16%
New Business Premium (Indl + Group) 33,365 29,631 13%
Renewal Premium (Indl + Group) 37,680 33,445 13%
Total Premium 71,045 63,076 13%
Assets Under Management 3,36,282 2,92,220 15%
Profit After Tax 1,802 1,569 15%
Indian Embedded Value 55,423 47,468 17%
Value of new business 3,962 3,501 13%
12M FY25 12M FY24
Key Financial Ratios
New Business Margins 25.6% 26.3%
Operating Return on EV 16.7% 17.5%
Total Expenses / Total Premium 19.8% 19.4%
Solvency Ratio 194% 187%
13M / 61M Persistency 87%/63% 87%/53%
Individual WRP market share (Overall)1 11.1% 10.4%
Product mix by Indl APE (UL / Non par savings

/Annuity/ Protection / Par)

39/32/5/5/19 35/30/6/5/23
Distribution mix by Indl APE (Corp Agents/ Agency/ Broker/ Direct) 65/18/7/10 65/18/6/11

Note: 1. For the period ending 11M

Percentages may not add up due to rounding off effect

Definitions and abbreviations

  • Annualized Premium Equivalent (APE) – The sum of annualized first year regular premiums and 10% weighted single premiums and single premium top-ups
  • Assets under Management (AUM) – The total value of Shareholders’ & Policyholders’ investments

managed by the insurance company

  • Embedded Value Operating Profit (EVOP) – Embedded Value Operating Profit (“EVOP”) is a measure of the increase in the EV during any given period, excluding the impact on EV due to external factors like changes in economic variables and shareholder-related actions like capital injection or dividend pay-outs
  • First year premium – Premiums due in the first policy year of regular premiums received during the financial year. For example, for a monthly mode policy sold in March 2025, the first monthly instalment received would be reflected as First year premiums for 2024-25 and the remaining 11 instalments due in the first policy year would be reflected as first year premiums in 2025-26, when received
  • New business received premium – The sum of first year premium and single premium, reflecting the total premiums received from the new business written
  • Operating expense – It includes all expenses that are incurred for the purposes of sourcing new business and expenses incurred for policy servicing (which are known as maintenance costs) including shareholders’ expenses. It does not include commission
  • Operating expense ratio – Ratio of operating expense (including shareholders’ expenses) to total premium
  • Operating return on EV – Operating Return on EV is the ratio of EVOP (Embedded Value Operating Profit) for any given period to the EV at the beginning of that period
  • Persistency – The proportion of business renewed from the business underwritten. The ratio is measured in terms of number of policies and premiums underwritten
  • Premium less benefits payouts – The difference between total premium received and benefits paid (gross of reinsurance)
  • Renewal premium – Regular recurring premiums received after the first policy year
  • Solvency ratio – Ratio of available solvency margin to required solvency margin
  • Total premium – Total received premiums during the year including first year, single and renewal premiums for individual and group business
  • Weighted received premium (WRP) – The sum of first year premium received during the year and 10% of single premiums including top-up premiums

NTT DATA Unveils First Sustainability Report for Global Data Centers

SACRAMENTO, CALIF.– April 18, 2025 – NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today announced the release of the first sustainability report for its data center division, NTT Global Data Centers. The report highlights NTT DATA’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and its accelerated progress toward achieving Net-Zero emissions within its data centers.

In FY23, NTT Global Data Centers achieved 51% renewable energy usage for non-IT load globally and secured 1.7 TWh of renewable energy through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to support its transition to achieving Net-Zero emissions in our operations by 2030.

The rise of AI and digital infrastructure brings unprecedented opportunities, but also a responsibility to build sustainably,” said Doug Adams, CEO and President, NTT Global Data Centers. “We believe technology and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand. Our commitment to Net-Zero extends beyond reducing emissions; it’s about fostering a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready digital ecosystem.”

Global Sustainability Report Highlights

NTT Global Data Centers continues to drive measurable progress toward its Net-Zero goals with ambitious targets: achieving Net-Zero across Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, and across Scope 1–3 by 2040, ten years ahead of the timeline of the Paris Agreement.

To improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact, NTT Global Data Centers is advancing AI-driven cooling technologies, optimizing Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) across its facilities, and deploying battery energy storage systems to store renewable energy and enhance grid resilience, reducing reliance on fossil fuels during peak demand. These innovations ensure that as AI and digital demands grow, data center sustainability keeps pace.

NTT Global Data Centers’ sustainability initiatives continue to deliver real-world impact across its global operations:

  • Germany: Waste heat reuse of 2MW will supply heating and warm water to over 1,000 buildings in the Marienpark Berlin commercial district, reducing fossil fuel dependency and maximizing efficiency. Future plans include expanding this initiative to extract up to 37MW of thermal output of the campus in total. NTT Global Data Centers also recently announced another new heat waste recovery project in Berlin that will supply 8MW of thermal waste heat from its data center to a residential district in Berlin.
  • United Kingdom: Implementation of a reverse osmosis filtration system reduced annual water usage by 35,000m³, cutting chemical waste and generating $120,000 in cost savings per year. Additionally, a smart sensor upgrade in U.K. data centers cut fan energy use by 50%, saving 2.6 GWh annually through optimized temperature and pressure settings, further enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.
  • Mumbai, India: Deployment of liquid immersion cooling and direct contact liquid cooling improved energy efficiency by 30%, enabling high-density AI workloads while reducing power consumption.

Looking forward, NTT Global Data Centers is committed to deepening its impact by focusing on emissions reduction through renewable and low-carbon energy procurement and energy efficiency, circular economy principles, and innovative data center design development. The company is expanding its heat reuse initiatives, aiming to provide heating and warm water to even more buildings in multiple communities.

“Sustainable digital infrastructure isn’t just a goal — it’s an imperative,” said Adams. “As AI and digital transformations accelerate, we are committed to integrating smarter energy solutions, advanced technologies, and AI-driven efficiencies to reduce our environmental impact at scale. Driven by innovation and a bold vision for the future, we are reimagining what’s possible for a sustainable, more resilient digital world.

As the world’s third-largest data center provider, NTT Global Data Centers is backed by more than $10 billion in capital development through 2027 to drive future expansion of its data center business in current and new markets.

Zydus Medtech, Braile Biomedica Ink Global Pact to Commercialise TAVI Tech

Ahmedabad, India and Sao Jose do Rio Preto, April 18, 2025,Zydus MedTech Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Zydus Lifesciences Limited specializing in medical technology development, has entered into a strategic partnership with Braile Biomédica Indústria, Comércio e Representações Ltda., (Braile Biomedica) – an innovative cardiovascular device manufacturer based in Brazil – to exclusively commercialize its Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) technology across Europe, India, and other select markets.

This agreement marks a significant step in Zydus MedTech’s strategic expansion into the fast-growing interventional cardiology segment. The global TAVI market, currently valued at over USD 6 billion, continues to witness strong growth driven by the increasing incidence of aortic stenosis and the rising demand for minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

Zydus MedTech, which is actively building its interventional cardiology portfolio, will introduce Braile Biomedica’s advanced balloon-expandable TAVI system to international markets, leveraging its commercial and regulatory expertise. Braile Biomedica – with a proven track record in cardiovascular innovation, particularly in Latin America – will manufacture and supply the product for these markets.

In addition to spearheading commercialization, Zydus MedTech will also retain rights to manufacture select components of the TAVI system. This collaboration provides operational flexibility while laying the foundation for further product innovation and development.

This agreement aligns with both companies’ shared commitment to delivering life-saving technologies to a broader patient population. The TAVI procedure is a recognized breakthrough in structural heart care, particularly for elderly patients or those at high surgical risk. By replacing the diseased aortic valve through a catheter-based approach – without the need for open-heart surgery – patients often experience significantly shorter recovery times and reduced procedural risks. The expansion of TAVI indications to all-risk patients has further accelerated its adoption.

What sets this TAVI solution apart is not just its clinical benefits, but also the technological and scientific foundation behind it. The system was developed based on the doctoral thesis of Dr. Domingo Braile, a pioneer of cardiac surgery in Brazil. Braile’s valve features a unique bovine pericardium sheet, used as a single piece rather than three separate leaflets, ensuring exceptional biocompatibility, durability, and performance.

The device must be collapsible, navigable through complex vascular anatomy, and fully functional upon deployment — all while maintaining structural integrity. This engineering precision and real-time deployment capability exemplify the fusion of innovation and performance, making it a next-generation, high-value product in cardiac care.

The synergy between Zydus MedTech’s marketing and regulatory strengths and Braile Biomedica’s deep technological expertise is expected to accelerate the global adoption of this life-saving therapy. Over the next three years, the partnership aims to launch a series of new innovations, supported by a robust clinical research program beginning next year in the regions covered under the agreement.

Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., said “We stand united with Braile to improve patient outcomes and expand access to advanced, critical cardiovascular care globally. This innovative, cutting-edge technology will offer a minimally invasive approach that also supports faster recovery, reduced hospital stays, and greatly improved quality of life for patients.”

Patricia Braile, CEO of Braile Biomedica, said “This partnership with Zydus MedTech powerfully reinforces Braile’s mission to care for people and help save lives. Seeing our TAVI technology — the result of decades of dedication to cardiovascular innovation — reach new continents is the fulfilment of a purpose that has driven us for nearly fifty years. By joining forces with a partner that shares our values and commitment, we expand our global impact and bring hope and quality of life to even more patients around the world.”