Schengen, USA and UAE lead as visa applications rise 68% YoY: Atlys

An emerging trend for this summer is the rise of first-time international travellers gravitating towards destinations like Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan, which offer streamlined visa procedures and accessible travel experiences. (Image source: Unsplash)

Gen Z travellers continue to drive much of this momentum with their preference for experience-led trips, shorter stays, and spontaneity with Indonesia, Egypt, and Japan topping the list of preferred destinations for immersive and purposeful journeys.

Microsoft expands AI-powered security with new Security Copilot agents

Microsoft has collaborated with cybersecurity partners to introduce five additional AI security agents. (Photo: Microsoft blogpost)

Microsoft had launched Security Copilot a year ago to help security teams detect, investigate, and respond to threats more efficiently. Now, with the growing complexity of cyberattacks, such as 7,000 password attacks per second, Microsoft has introduced AI agents to enhance cyber defenses.

Government proposes removal of 6% equalisation levy on online ads

One of the lesser-discussed ripple effects of the Equalisation Levy has been its role in nudging brands toward domestic alternatives. Rising costs and tax complexities have made Indian platforms more attractive than before, not just as fillers, but as strategic choices. (Image sourced from Moneycontrol)(Image sourced from Moneycontrol)

Initially introduced under the Finance Act of 2016, the equalisation levy was applied to payments for online advertisement services and digital ad space.

Madison Media Infinity wins Media AOR of Samsonite India

A subsidiary of the global Samsonite International, the brand offers a range of luggage, backpacks and travel accessories designed to meet the needs of modern travellers.

The agency will be responsible for both traditional and digital media mandate that includes TV, Print, Radio, Cinema, Outdoor and Digital.

Minister Jayant Chaudhary emphasizes role of skills & innovation; says “right skill set provides both merit and national growth”

Leading experts from the transportation and logistics sector participated in discussions, including Davinder Sandhu (DB Engineering), Suraj Chettri (Airbus), Anil Kumar Saini (Alstom), Andreas Foerster (Tata Advanced Systems), Jaya Jagadish (AMD), Prof. Vinayak Dixit (UNSW Australia), Praveen Kumar (DFCCIL), and Maj. Gen. R. S. Godara.

Discussing India’s startup ecosystem, Chaudhary pointed out that by 2030, the number of startups is projected to double from 1.2 lakh to 2.4 lakh, potentially creating 50 million new jobs.

Storyboard18 Global Pioneers Summit: PepsiCo India & South Asia CEO Jagrut Kotecha to speak on power of partnerships

Speaking at Storyboard18's Global Pioneers Summit, Jagrut Kotecha of PepsiCo stressed the need for deeper industry collaboration, especially in sustainability and community development.

Bringing together visionaries, industry leaders and pioneers from business, marketing, advertising, technology and academia, the summit will spark thought-provoking discussions, celebrate ingenuity and cultivate meaningful collaborations.