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ITC’s employee costs surge 14% to Rs 1,887 crore in Q2 FY27 as net profit falls 18.7%

ITC Ltd reported a 14 per cent year-on-year increase in employee benefit expenses to Rs 1,886.52 crore in the second quarter of FY27, up from Rs 1,654.49 crore in the corresponding period last year. The rise of approximately Rs 232 crore came even as the diversified conglomerate witnessed a decline in its consolidated net profit. The company’s consolidated net profit attributable to owners fell 18.7 per cent to Rs 4,168.40 crore in Q2 FY27, compared with Rs 5,126.11 crore in Q2 FY26. Meanwhile, consolidated net revenue grew 3.9 per cent year-on-year to Rs 20,269 crore. ITC’s EBITDA declined 16.8 per cent to Rs 6,126.53 crore, while its operating profit margin narrowed to 27.85 per cent from 34.33 per cent in the year-ago quarter. The higher employee expenditure was reported amid varied performances across the company’s business segments, with non-cigarette FMCG and paperboards businesses registering growth, while the cigarette segment continued to face challenges. FMCG and paper businesses support growth ITC’s non-cigarette FMCG segment recorded a 19.1 per cent increase in revenue to Rs 7,218.36 crore during the quarter. Segment profit before tax rose 31.4 per cent to Rs 576.69 crore. According to the company, its FMCG business achieved double-digit revenue growth for the fourth consecutive quarter. Biscuits, snacks, noodles, spices, salt, frozen foods, homecare products and notebooks were among the categories contributing to the performance. The paperboards, paper and packaging segment also reported a strong recovery, with revenue climbing 35.9 per cent year-on-year to Rs 3,017.45 crore. Segment profit increased 50.7 per cent to Rs 273.32 crore. ITC’s agri business posted a 12.7 per cent rise in revenue to Rs 4,550.60 crore, while segment profit grew 14.3 per cent to Rs 518.41 crore. However, the cigarette business remained under pressure, with segment profit declining 26 per cent to Rs 4,044.49 crore from Rs 5,462.10 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year. The company attributed the challenging business environment to the impact of changes in cigarette taxation. While employee benefit expenses recorded substantial growth during the quarter, ITC’s financial disclosures did not specify the reasons behind the increase, leaving it unclear whether the rise was linked to salary revisions, additional hiring, changes in employee benefits or other workforce-related costs. Source: Economic Times

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Netflix introduces AI Discover tab to offer personalised viewing recommendations based on users’ moods

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Netflix has introduced a new experimental feature, AI Discover, designed to help users find movies and shows based on their moods, preferences and viewing habits. Announced on Tuesday, the feature will initially allow subscribers to explore personalised recommendations through a dedicated tab on the streaming platform. The new AI Discover tab will offer curated themes featuring clips from movies and television shows. Users can select categories based on what they feel like watching, the time available to them or current entertainment trends. Options include themes such as ‘Something Light’, ‘Scare Me’, ‘Family Movie Night’ and ‘Quick Watches’. The move reflects Netflix’s efforts to simplify content discovery as its entertainment library continues to expand. Instead of browsing endlessly through titles, viewers will be able to use AI-powered suggestions to find content that better matches their immediate interests. According to Netflix, AI Discover operates through a new intelligence layer that responds to users’ inputs in real time and continuously learns from their preferences. Users can customise recommendations After selecting a theme, subscribers will receive a list of relevant viewing suggestions. They can further narrow their choices by exploring more specific categories or select the ‘Something Different’ option to restart the discovery process. The platform is also introducing a ‘Tune Your Recommendations’ button alongside the existing ‘Play’ and ‘My List’ options. This feature will allow users to save titles they enjoy or exclude content they do not want to see in future recommendations. Netflix said the new feature builds on its existing recommendation system, which already considers user activity, including titles they give a thumbs-up rating and programmes they add to their watchlists. The company described AI Discover as a testing ground for experimenting with new content discovery features. Feedback from users will help Netflix assess which features should be refined, retained or eventually integrated into its main platform experience. Initial rollout limited to US users AI Discover is initially being rolled out in the United States to users accessing Netflix in English through supported television devices. The company plans to extend access to more users over the coming weeks. Subscribers with access to the feature will find a new ‘Discover’ option marked with a red gem icon and a ‘New’ label in the top navigation bar on their television screens. Source: Techcrunch

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Defence Ministry panel to discuss military modernisation, border security in Jaisalmer

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The Defence Ministry’s Consultative Committee is scheduled to meet in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss key national security matters and the preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces. The discussions are expected to focus on modernising the armed forces, promoting the use of indigenous defence equipment and incorporating emerging military technologies into India’s defence capabilities. The committee will also review security preparedness along the western border and explore measures to strengthen the operational effectiveness of the armed forces. Other key areas likely to feature in the deliberations include addressing evolving security threats and preparing the military to tackle future strategic and operational challenges. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has arrived in Jaisalmer to attend the meeting, accompanied by several Members of Parliament from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Senior officials from the Defence Ministry and representatives of the armed forces are also expected to participate. The meeting will provide a platform for discussions on India’s defence priorities, military preparedness and the role of indigenous technologies in strengthening national security. Source: News on AIR

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NTA empanels over 5,000 experts to strengthen question paper security

admin / Education Community

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has empanelled more than 5,000 academicians, scientists, researchers, educationists, professionals, translators and moderators to support various examination-related activities, including question paper preparation, translation, scrutiny and verification. The development is part of the agency’s wider efforts to strengthen examination security following the NEET-UG paper leak in May 2026, which triggered widespread protests and led to significant changes within the organisation. As part of its restructuring exercise, the NTA also removed around 600 subject matter experts and relocated its headquarters from Okhla in South East Delhi to the Government of India Press building on Minto Road. The agency has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from eligible academicians, researchers, scientists, educators and translators to join its three-year panel of subject matter experts. According to sources, the empanelment process is ongoing, with no fixed deadline for applications. Officials clarified that the selected individuals are not being recruited as employees but are being added to a verified panel after undergoing multiple levels of scrutiny. The expanded panel will contribute to developing a centralised question bank, allowing the NTA to maintain a large repository of questions and reduce the possibility of examination paper leaks. Under the proposed system, experts will be assigned responsibilities such as setting questions, translating examination material, vetting papers, moderating questions, verifying answer keys, mapping curricula and conducting research and psychometric assessments. The assignments will be structured to ensure that experts do not know which questions will eventually be selected or the examination for which they are being prepared. The NTA has introduced a four-stage verification mechanism for empanelment. Initially, applicants’ eligibility, academic qualifications, professional experience and supporting documents are examined. A dedicated subject matter committee subsequently evaluates their academic credentials, research contributions and experience in question paper preparation. Applicants who clear these stages undergo additional background verification. The agency also checks whether candidates have links with coaching institutes or have previously developed question bank material for students. To safeguard confidential examination-related information, all empanelled experts must sign a comprehensive Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). They are also required to reaffirm their confidentiality commitments before undertaking every assignment. The agency has already begun developing its question bank, with plans to finalise examination papers shortly before the scheduled tests. Officials said the objective is to enable the selection and assembly of questions just minutes before an examination begins, thereby reducing the risk of advance access or leaks. The system has reportedly started being implemented in some of the entrance examinations conducted by the NTA. The agency is responsible for conducting several major national-level examinations, including JEE (Main), CUET (UG and PG), UGC-NET, CSIR-NET and NEET. While most of these examinations are conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, NEET is conducted in the pen-and-paper format. Additionally, the NTA is working towards adopting an ‘exam-agnostic’ framework to reduce dependence on individual technology providers, examination platforms or vendors. The proposed approach is aimed at creating a more flexible examination infrastructure while strengthening the overall conduct and security of national-level entrance tests. Source: Indian Express

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Google, Meta Push Back Against ICE Requests for User Data Amid US Immigration Crackdown

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Google, Meta and other major technology companies are pushing back against increasing demands from US immigration authorities for user information, as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to identify and monitor online critics of its immigration policies. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, technology companies are increasingly challenging broad data requests, delaying responses to subpoenas and strengthening policies that notify users when government agencies seek access to their information. The companies are facing growing pressure to balance legal obligations, customer privacy and concerns about potential political retaliation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which operates under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has reportedly stepped up its monitoring of online platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, TikTok and X, particularly accounts and content it considers threatening to immigration officers or enforcement operations. Authorities have increasingly relied on administrative subpoenas to obtain user information. Unlike judicial warrants and grand jury subpoenas, these orders can be issued and approved directly by ICE officials without obtaining prior judicial authorisation. Former government officials from both major political parties have raised concerns about the growing use of this approach. The scale of government data requests has also drawn attention. Google received approximately 28,600 US government subpoenas between January and June 2025, with comparable volumes recorded during the second half of the year. Meanwhile, Meta disclosed that it provided at least some user information in 88.8 per cent of US government requests received between July and December 2025. In recent weeks, the DHS has reportedly joined hands with the Department of Justice to pursue grand jury subpoenas, which carry more significant legal consequences for companies that refuse to comply. Tech Companies Face Legal and Political Pressures The growing dispute has raised concerns among technology executives about potential investigations and regulatory consequences. Leaders at Meta are reportedly assessing the possibility of increased congressional scrutiny if Democrats gain control following the upcoming midterm elections. Google executives are also weighing the risks of resisting government requests against the possibility of administrative retaliation, particularly amid ongoing federal antitrust proceedings involving the company. US lawmakers have already questioned technology companies over their handling of sensitive customer information. Representative Shri Thanedar, who helped launch an investigation into corporate compliance earlier this year, said executives should be prepared to justify their decisions under oath. Google, responding to the concerns, said its procedures are designed to protect customer privacy while meeting legal obligations. The company added that it challenges government demands when they are excessively broad. Meanwhile, federal authorities have maintained that their actions comply with existing legal requirements. An ICE spokesperson said the agency conducts its operations in accordance with applicable laws and policies. Source: TOI

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Diljit Dosanjh Kicks Off Aura India Tour 2026 with Sold-Out Concert in Delhi

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Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh launched his RuPay AURA India Tour 2026 with a packed concert at Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday, turning the venue into a massive celebration of Punjabi music. The opening show marked the beginning of a six-week musical tour across eight Indian cities, promoted by BookMyShow Live. The Delhi performance followed Dosanjh’s successful international concert run, which featured sold-out stadium shows in Australia and appearances at prestigious venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York and Wembley Stadium in London. He also created history as the first Punjabi artist to headline and sell out the iconic Wembley Stadium. Dosanjh began the Delhi concert with ‘Morni’, followed by several fan favourites, including ‘G.O.A.T.’, ‘Ikk Kudi’, ‘Lalkara’, ‘Lover’, ‘Case’, ‘Panjtaara’, ‘Hass Hass’, ‘Saanso Ki Mala’ and ‘Water’. The show featured elaborate stage production, immersive visuals and sound arrangements that brought the international concert experience to Indian audiences. Adding to the excitement, the singer invited fans on stage to dance and sing with him. He also acknowledged the Delhi Police for managing security and ensuring the smooth conduct of the event. A spectacular drone display concluded the evening with the message ‘Panjabi Aa Gaye Oye!’ lighting up the night sky. Commenting on the successful opening, Naman Pugalia, Chief Business Officer – Live Events at BookMyShow, said the sold-out Delhi concert reflected the strong connection Dosanjh shares with audiences worldwide. He added that the opening performance had established the scale and enthusiasm expected from the remaining cities on the six-week tour. Beyond the musical performances, the event offered additional audience experiences, including a complimentary turban-tying camp and specially curated food and beverage options across the stadium. Following the Delhi opening, the RuPay AURA India Tour 2026 will move to Indore on November 15, Ahmedabad on November 21, Mumbai on November 27, Bengaluru on November 29 and Lucknow on December 5. Concert dates and venue information for Chandigarh and Kolkata are expected to be announced later. Tickets for the upcoming performances are available exclusively through BookMyShow. Source: Economic Times

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ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2026, held on 30th October 2026 in Pune, Maharashtra

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Bringing together some of the brightest minds and influential voices from India’s education ecosystem, the ArdorComm Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2026 successfully concluded in Pune, Maharashtra, on 30 October 2026. Organised by ArdorComm Media Group, the flagship event revolved around the theme “Maharashtra’s Education Without Boundaries: Building Institutions for the Future.” The summit served as a vibrant platform for academicians, educationists, institutional leaders, policymakers, technology experts, HR professionals, entrepreneurs, and EdTech innovators to deliberate on the evolving landscape of education and explore pathways towards building future-ready institutions. With Maharashtra continuing to strengthen its position as a leading destination for education, research, technology, and innovation, Pune provided an ideal setting for conversations around the future of learning, institutional transformation, and the growing intersection of education and industry. Exploring the Changing Landscape of Education As artificial intelligence, digital technologies, evolving industry requirements, and emerging skill demands reshape the education ecosystem, the summit brought important conversations to the forefront. Discussions highlighted the need for educational institutions to move beyond conventional approaches and embrace innovation, technology integration, experiential learning, and industry collaboration. The event emphasised the importance of building an education ecosystem that is inclusive, accessible, technology-enabled, and aligned with the aspirations of a rapidly changing workforce. Through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions, participants explored how institutions can strengthen their academic frameworks, encourage research and entrepreneurship, adopt emerging technologies, and equip learners with the competencies required to thrive in the future. Industry Leaders and Keynote Speakers The inaugural session, themed “Maharashtra’s Education Without Boundaries: Building Institutions for the Future,” commenced with a welcome address by Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor, ArdorComm Media Group. The session was graced by Deepak Singla (I.A.S.), Commissioner, Sports and Youth Services, Maharashtra State, as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Suresh A. Patil, Joint Director, Directorate of Technical Education, Pune Region, Govt. of Maharashtra, as the Special Guest. The session also featured guest speakers Dr. Parag Kalkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, and Dr. Shankar S Mantha, President, Ramdeobaba University, Nagpur and Former Chairman, AICTE. The first panel discussion, titled “Who Owns the Future of Learning – Institutions, Industry or Technology?”, was moderated by Dr. Harshita Sharma, Founder – Director, Brainstorm International, Pune. The panel featured Dr. Rasika Panicker, Principal & Director, Rosary High School, Badlapur, Mumbai; Dr. Gaurav Tiwari, Founder Principal, P.P. Gagangiri Maharaj International School & Junior College, Khopoli; Debika Chatterji, Director – Principal, JBCN International School, Mumbai; and Dr. Rajesh Prasad, Principal, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University College of Engineering, Pune. The second panel discussion, titled “Smart School Campuses: Are Schools Ready for the Intelligent, Connected Campus?”, was moderated by Dr. Seema Negi, Director Principal, Sanjeevani World School, Mumbai. The panel featured Swati Popat Vats, President, Podar Education Network, Mumbai; Ramesh Tupe, Chairman, SGT International School & Junior College, Mumbai; and Renu Nair, Regional Head, Kidzonia International School, Pune. The third panel discussion, titled “Building the Knowledge Economy: Can Universities Become Engines of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Job Creation?”, was moderated by Dr. Manoj Apte, Professor & Director, Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies and Research, Pune. The panel featured Dr. Shankar S Mantha, President, Ramdeobaba University, Nagpur and Former Chairman, AICTE; Prof. (Dr.) Sudarshan Sanap, Dean, Faculty of Engineering & Sciences, MIT Art Design and Technology University, Pune; Dr. Geetali Tilak, Vice-Chancellor, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune; Prof. (Dr.) Raviraja N. Seetharam, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, Pune; and Sohom Dutta, Senior Vice President, Elevate Campuses Ltd. The fourth panel discussion, titled “The Human Advantage: What Skills Will Remain Irreplaceable in an AI-Driven World?”, was moderated by Dr. Madhavi Dhole, Director, SIES College of Management Studies, Navi Mumbai. The panel featured Dr. Vilas Sapkal, Vice Chancellor, MGM University, Chh. Sambhajinagar; Dr. Sohan Chitlange, Vice Chancellor, Alard University, Pune; and Prof. (Dr.) Manish Bhalla, Vice Chancellor, D Y Patil International University, Akurdi, Pune. The fifth panel discussion, titled “From Degrees to Demonstrable Skills: Is the Future of Employability Beyond Credentials?”, was moderated by Dr. Jaywant V. Shelar, Vice Chancellor, ITM Skills University, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. The panel featured Dr. Sunil Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Dr. P. A. Inamdar University, Pune, Maharashtra; Dr. Shashank D. Dalvi, Vice Chancellor, MGM Institute of Health Sciences, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra; Dr. Ganesh Rao, Director – Pune Business School and Vice President (West) – AIMS, Maharashtra; Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh Madhukar Jalnekar, Director, Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Pune, Maharashtra; and Dr. Manimala Puri, Group Director, ASM Group of Institutes, Pune, Maharashtra. Roundtable Discussion The summit also featured a special roundtable discussion titled “From Smart Classrooms to Intelligent Campuses: Powering Education Transformation Through AI & Innovation,” moderated by Saurabh Karemore, General Manager – West, D.Sol Biz, Samsung, and Niraj Kumar, Chief Manager, D.Sol Biz, Samsung. The roundtable brought together Pradeep Nayar, Chief Manager – Marketing, Samsung; Dr. Raj Salunke, Chairman, Sharada Group of Education, Solapur; Suresh Marutrav Kote, Chairman, Hind English Medium School, Gurukool, Pune; Dr. Harshita Sharma, Founder – Director, Brainstorm International, Pune; Ashok Sachdev, Founder & CEO, Chitrakoot International School, Ahilyanagar; Dr. Yasmin Pirzada, Founder & Trustee, Belvedere Spring School International, Mumbai; Mehjabeen Nadaf Khan, Founder & Director, BlueBird School, Hadaspur; Monal Dugad, Managing Director, Pushpa International School, Pune; Theo Hiwale, Managing Director, Royal International School, Pune; Dr. Nicholas Correa, Academic Director & Principal, Coral Bells International School, Navi Mumbai; Dr. Manisha Shewale, Director, Vikas Pratishthan’s CBSE & ICSE Schools & Maharashtra State Advisor (AIPA) & Core Member (WASP), Pune; Namrata Majhail, Director-Principal, The Orchid School, Pune; Gunjan Srivastava, Director Principal, The Orbis Schools, Pune; Jyotsna Mishra, Director, Alard Public School, Hinjawadi, Pune; Prof. (Dr.) Nilesh R. Berad, Director, MET’s Institute of Management, Nasik; Dr. Anamika Singh, Director, Modern Institute of Business Management, Pune; Nirmal Waddan, Director-Principal, The Kalyani School, Manjri, BK, Pune; Ashwini Kumar, Director-Principal, Pune Global School, Pune; Dr. Monika Gupta, Founder Principal & Director, Pushpa International School, Pune; Prof. Dr. K. P. Moholkar, Dean Academics, JSPM’S Rajarshi Shahu College of Engineering, Pune; Dr. Shalini Sinha, Director, Chetana’s RK Institute of Management and Research,

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AICTE introduces four schemes for 2026-27 to strengthen technical education institutions

admin / Education Community

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has introduced four new schemes for the 2026-27 academic year to support the development of technical education institutions through improved infrastructure, practical learning, academic mentorship and research activities. AICTE Chairman Prof. Yogesh Singh announced the initiatives under the council’s Institutional Development Cell (IDC), in the presence of Member Secretary Prof. Shyama Rath. The four schemes include IDEA Lab, Modernisation and Restructuring for Outcome Based System (MODROBS), Margdarshan and Grant for Organising Conference (GOC). The announcement was shared through AICTE’s official social media platform on October 31. According to the council, the initiatives aim to expand institutional development opportunities across different districts and ensure that support is not confined to well-established technical education institutions. Each scheme has been designed to address a specific aspect of institutional growth, ranging from hands-on student learning and infrastructure upgrades to academic collaboration and research-oriented engagements. Four schemes and their key objectives IDEA Lab: The scheme aims to promote innovation and experiential learning by providing students with opportunities to apply concepts from science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It encourages hands-on experimentation, prototype development and the creation of practical solutions to real-world challenges. The initiative seeks to strengthen the learning-by-doing approach in technical education. MODROBS: Through the Modernisation and Restructuring for Outcome Based System scheme, AICTE intends to help institutions upgrade their existing academic infrastructure. The assistance will cover facilities such as laboratories, workshops and computing resources, enabling institutions to improve practical training, research and teaching capabilities. Margdarshan: This initiative is centred on academic mentorship and institutional capacity building. It will connect participating colleges with established and centrally funded institutions to facilitate knowledge sharing, improve academic standards and encourage the adoption of effective institutional practices. Grant for Organising Conference (GOC): The scheme will extend support to institutions conducting national and international academic conferences. It aims to encourage interaction among researchers, academicians and subject specialists, while providing platforms for presenting research outcomes, exchanging ideas and discussing emerging developments across disciplines. AICTE stated that the four initiatives are intended to strengthen technical education by making institutional development support more accessible across the country. The broader objective is to encourage innovation, improve academic infrastructure and create opportunities for collaboration among institutions. However, the council’s announcement did not specify the funding allocation, application deadlines or detailed eligibility requirements for individual schemes. Institutions interested in applying will need to consult the respective scheme guidelines for information on financial assistance, eligibility and application procedures. The latest initiatives reflect AICTE’s continued focus on improving the quality and reach of technical education in India, with particular emphasis on practical learning, institutional modernisation and stronger academic collaboration. Source: Indian Express

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Max Healthcare reports ₹3,219 crore revenue in Q2 FY27, net profit rises 10%

admin / Health & Wellness Community

Max Healthcare reported a 20 per cent year-on-year (YoY) increase in gross revenue to ₹3,219 crore for the second quarter of FY27. The healthcare provider recorded a network profit after tax (PAT) of ₹448 crore, registering a 10 per cent growth compared with the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. As of September 2026, the company’s operational bed capacity reached 5,518, marking an addition of 758 beds and a 16 per cent increase over September 2025. Bed occupancy during the quarter stood at 77 per cent, while Occupied Bed Days (OBDs) increased by 13 per cent YoY. Average Revenue Per Patient (ARPP) for Q2 FY27 was ₹2.31 lakh, compared with ₹2.14 lakh in the year-ago quarter and ₹2.30 lakh in Q1 FY27, reflecting an annual growth of 8 per cent. The company’s non-captive pathology business, Max Lab, generated gross revenue of ₹66 crore during the quarter, registering a 24 per cent YoY and 15 per cent quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) increase. Operating across more than 63 cities, the vertical offers over 2,700 diagnostic tests. Max Healthcare’s home care division, Max@home, also recorded strong growth, with gross revenue increasing 37 per cent YoY to ₹86 crore. Revenue grew 10 per cent sequentially, supported by demand for physiotherapy and rehabilitation, nursing services, attendants, sample collection and medicine delivery. Free cash generation during the quarter stood at ₹500 crore, compared with ₹291 crore in Q2 FY26 and ₹397 crore in Q1 FY27. The company invested ₹292 crore in ongoing expansion projects and distributed ₹195 crore towards dividends. On the infrastructure front, Max Super Speciality Hospital (MSSH), Dwarka, has commenced operations at its Oncology Block. The development is expected to take the hospital’s overall capacity to 318 beds during Q3 FY27. The company also strengthened its stake in Kalinga Hospital Limited (KHL), increasing its shareholding from approximately 58.28 per cent to 66.34 per cent following a rights issue on September 7, 2026. KHL operates a 250-bed hospital in Bhubaneswar. Additionally, Max Healthcare has approved a capital expenditure of ₹415 crore for adding 209 beds across its existing hospitals. The planned expansion includes 85 beds at MSSH, Noida, 60 beds at MSSH, Vaishali and 64 beds at BLK-Max Hospital. The BLK-Max expansion will also include a multi-level car parking facility to accommodate the growing number of patients and visitors. For the six months ended September 2026, the company’s total bed capacity stood at 6,184, representing a 20 per cent YoY increase. Network gross revenue for the period reached ₹6,200 crore, up 18 per cent from the corresponding period last year, primarily driven by higher Occupied Bed Days. Network PAT for the first half of FY27 increased 7 per cent to ₹805 crore, compared with ₹750 crore in the corresponding period of the previous financial year on a like-for-like basis. Cash generated from operations during the six-month period amounted to ₹897 crore, while net debt stood at ₹2,369 crore. Commenting on the performance, Abhay Soi, Chairman and Managing Director of Max Healthcare, said the company continued to register steady growth while expanding bed capacity across multiple locations to address India’s increasing demand for quality healthcare. He highlighted that higher occupancy across network hospitals and the faster utilisation of newly added beds reflected strong demand for the company’s services. He also noted growing momentum in medical value travel, supported by India’s cost-competitive healthcare offerings, which is further enhancing the country’s position as a global healthcare destination. Source: Economic Times

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ICMR Funds Four-Year Study to Explore Genetic Links and Potential Treatments for Autoimmune Diseases

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The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has funded a four-year research project to investigate the genetic and immunological factors behind autoimmune diseases, with the aim of identifying shared disease mechanisms and potential targets for future therapies. The study will focus on families with multiple members affected by autoimmune conditions. Researchers are planning to develop a nationwide cohort of 200 families, each having at least one member diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus. Doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, have also appealed to eligible lupus patients to participate in the research. Titled ‘Genomic Profiling and Identification of Targetable Shared Immunopathogenic Events in Multiplex Families with Autoimmune Diseases’, the project has been awarded to Dr Dipyaman Ganguly of Ashoka University, Sonipat, and Dr Ranjan Gupta, Additional Professor in the Department of Rheumatology at AIIMS Delhi. As part of the investigation, researchers will conduct genetic and immunological assessments of patients and their family members to identify common biological processes associated with the development of autoimmune conditions. The findings are expected to improve understanding of disease mechanisms and help identify potential targets for developing new treatment approaches. Autoimmune diseases develop when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. According to Dr Gupta, a family history of these conditions is associated with an increased risk, making genetic and shared immunological factors important areas of investigation. The research will involve six clinical centres across the country: AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Bibinagar in Telangana, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) in Lucknow, St John’s Hospital in Bengaluru, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad and Kolkata Medical College. These institutions will contribute clinical information and biological samples to support the study. Patients diagnosed with lupus and residing in the Delhi-NCR region can contact the AIIMS Delhi centre to enquire about eligibility and enrolment. Participation will depend on meeting the study’s clinical and other recruitment requirements. Through this multi-institutional initiative, researchers aim to strengthen understanding of the inherited and immune-related factors associated with autoimmune diseases and explore new possibilities for targeted treatment. Source: PTI

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