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South Africa has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for eligible Indian passport holders, enabling travellers to apply for travel authorisation entirely online with applications intended to be processed within 24 to 48 hours. The initiative is aimed at simplifying travel for short-term leisure and work visits of up to 90 days by replacing traditional paperwork with a fully digital process. Under the new system, travellers can complete the application online by creating an account on the official South African Department of Home Affairs ETA portal, uploading the required documents, verifying their identity through smartphone-based biometrics and paying the…

Cognizant Technology Solutions raised its full-year 2026 earnings outlook following strong second-quarter performance, anchored by robust momentum in its core financial services division and expanding demand for artificial intelligence-led transformation. The Nasdaq-listed IT services major reported Q2 revenue of $5.48 billion, representing a 4.5% year-on-year growth, while adjusted operating margins expanded 40 basis points to 16.0%. Growth was spearheaded by its Financial Services segment—Cognizant’s largest business line—which accelerated 12% year-on-year, marking its second consecutive quarter of double-digit growth as banking and financial clients increased spending on digital modernization and AI integration. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter…

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the findings of an Independent Drive Test (IDT) conducted across South Tripura district and adjoining areas to assess the real-time quality of mobile network services offered by telecom operators in the North East Licensed Service Area (LSA). The tests, carried out from May 13 to 16, 2026, evaluated voice and data performance of Airtel, BSNL, Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. (RJIL) and Vodafone Idea Ltd. (VIL) across city routes, hotspot locations and walk-test zones. The survey covered 244.2 km of city drive routes, nine hotspot locations and 1.6 km of walk-test areas…

After making its mark with products like ghee, toothpaste, soaps, and honey, Patanjali Ayurved is now preparing to enter the insurance industry. The company, founded by Baba Ramdev, has received approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to acquire Magma General Insurance, marking its biggest move beyond FMCG and Ayurveda. The acquisition, valued at nearly ₹4,500 crore, is being executed jointly with the DS Group, known for its food and confectionery businesses. As part of the deal, Patanjali Ayurved will acquire a 73.56% stake in Magma General Insurance, while the DS Group will hold a 24.5%…

TATA AIG General Insurance Company has been appointed as the implementing insurance partner for the PradhanMantriFasalBimaYojana (PMFBY) across 11 districts of Mizoram for the Kharif 2026 season. The company will implement the flagship crop insurance scheme in Hnahthial, Serchhip, Aizawl, Lawngtlai, Mamit, Saitual, Siaha, Champhai, Khawzawl, Kolasib and Lunglei districts, strengthening financial protection for farmers against crop losses caused by natural calamities, pests and diseases. Jointly sponsored by the Government of India and the Government of Mizoram, PMFBY aims to improve farmers' income stability and enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector. As the implementing insurer, TATA AIG will facilitate…

Indriya, Aditya Birla Jewellery, has strengthened its premium bridal jewellery positioning by unveiling an exclusive heritage-inspired collection in collaboration with House of Masaba at India Couture Week 2026. The partnership coincided with House of Masaba's first-ever bridal couture showcase, highlighting the growing convergence of luxury fashion and fine jewellery in India's expanding bridal market. The curated collection showcased classic yellow gold, heirloom-inspired antique jewellery, temple jewellery with intricate nakshi work, Rajasthan's iconic aads, delicate filigree craftsmanship, ceremonial maangtikas, and coloured gemstones set in gold, alongside contemporary designs tailored for modern lifestyles. Handcrafted by master artisans using generations-old techniques, the collection…