22, Apr 2026
Wild Stone Partners with Fynd to Accelerate Offline Experience Centres Expansion, Driving 150 Percent Growth in Orders
Mumbai, April 22: Fynd, an AI-native retail technology company backed by Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, announced its partnership with Wild Stone to power the brand’s offline experience centre operations through an integrated retail technology stack. Through this collaboration, Fynd is enabling Wild Stone to build and scale its offline retail presence with a unified solution spanning POS, analytics and reporting, and inventory management, clienteling, and omnichannel retail operations.
As part of the partnership, Fynd has deployed a fast and reliable POS system across Wild Stone experience centres, enabling seamless billing, rapid staff onboarding, and dependable transactions even in high-footfall mall environments. The brand also leverages a customized analytics dashboard that provides deep visibility into store performance, including total sales, average transaction value, SKU performance, customer mix, and low-stock alerts.
To further simplify store operations for Wild Stone, Fynd enabled a simplified, in-built WMS flow for experience centre-level inventory management. This empowers store teams to handle GRNs, update stock in real time, and maintain inventory accuracy without requiring a complex warehouse setup.
“Offline retail growth requires more than opening new stores. It requires technology that is intuitive for store teams, reliable in high-traffic environments, and scalable as operations expand,” said Ragini Varma, Chief Business Officer – India, Fynd. “With Wild Stone, our focus has been on building a strong unified operational backbone for experience centre -led retail, from fast billing and simple inventory workflows to centralized visibility across stores, clienteling, and omnichannel readiness. The speed at which the brand has expanded shows what is possible when the right retail infrastructure is in place.”
Wild Stone began its experience centre journey with an initial pilot in West Bengal and has since expanded to more than 20 experience centres across multiple regions within months. Throughout this rapid growth phase, Fynd’s centralized retail stack has helped standardize billing, reporting, and inventory workflows, enabling scale without proportional operational complexity.
By replacing manual processes around billing, inventory tracking, and performance monitoring with a centralized and easy-to-use system, Fynd has helped Wild Stone create a more structured and scalable offline retail model. Store teams can operate experience centres efficiently with minimal technical training, while business teams gain real-time insight into store performance, SKU movement, and stock levels.
“As we expanded our offline footprint, it was important for us to work with a partner that could help us launch quickly, operate efficiently, and scale with confidence,” said Mohit Kiradoo, Senior Manager, Strategic Projects, McNROE Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd. “Fynd’s AI-enabled unified commerce platform has helped us simplify experience centre operations, improve visibility into sales and inventory, and create a more dependable retail experience on the ground. It has given us the operational control and agility needed to grow our offline business in a structured way.”
Through this partnership, Fynd continues to strengthen its role as the technology backbone for Wild Stone and any other brand looking to build scalable, unified offline and online retail operations in India and global markets.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Apr 2026
Life Insurance Industry Achieves Record INR 4 Trillion New Business Premium in FY26
Apr 22 (BNP): The Indian life insurance sector has recorded a landmark achievement by collecting approximately ₹4 trillion in new business premiums in FY26, marking the highest-ever annual figure for the industry.
This milestone reflects strong consumer demand for life insurance products, increased financial awareness, and wider adoption across diverse market segments. Growth has been supported by digital transformation, improved accessibility, and expansion into emerging regions.
The industry’s performance highlights a growing focus on financial protection and long-term savings among Indian households. Insurers have also benefited from enhanced distribution capabilities and evolving product offerings tailored to customer needs.
The achievement underscores the sector’s steady expansion and its critical role in strengthening India’s financial security ecosystem.
22, Apr 2026
PLI Food Processing Scheme Creates 3.39 Lakh Jobs, Exceeds Target
New Delhi, Apr 22 (BNP): The Government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the Food Processing Industry has achieved a significant milestone by generating approximately 3.39 lakh direct and indirect jobs as of February 2026, surpassing its target of 2.5 lakh jobs set for 2026–27.
Since its inception, the scheme has facilitated the disbursement of over ₹2,162 crore in incentives to beneficiaries, supporting growth, capacity expansion, and technological advancement in the sector.
PLI scheme for food processing creates 3.39 lakh jobs, disburses ₹2,162 crore in Incentiveshttps://t.co/vzfq4OTdLc
via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/tmDzj8fq78
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2026
The initiative has played a key role in strengthening India’s food processing ecosystem by encouraging investment, enhancing value addition, and improving supply chain efficiency. It has also contributed to increased income opportunities for farmers and supported the growth of food-based industries across the country.
The continued success of the PLI scheme reflects the government’s commitment to boosting manufacturing, generating employment, and promoting sustainable growth in the food processing sector.
22, Apr 2026
RuPay Credit Cards Near 40 pc Share in New Issuances on UPI Boost
News Delhi, Apr 22 (BNP): India’s credit card landscape is witnessing a significant shift, with RuPay credit cards rapidly gaining traction and nearing a 40% share in new issuances.
The growth is being driven by the integration of RuPay credit cards with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), enabling users to make seamless payments through QR codes across a wide network of merchants. This feature has expanded the usability of credit cards beyond traditional swipe and online transactions.
RuPay credit cards ride UPI growth, approach nearly 40% share in new issuances https://t.co/94cue2lzmJ
via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/EaIC9cDs6C
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2026
The increased convenience is encouraging wider adoption, particularly among first-time credit users and consumers in smaller cities, where QR-based payments are deeply embedded in everyday transactions.
Banks and financial institutions are also supporting this trend by promoting RuPay credit cards as a cost-effective and accessible option, aligning with the country’s push for strengthening domestic payment systems.
The rising share of RuPay credit cards reflects the evolving digital payments ecosystem in India, where innovation and infrastructure are enabling greater financial inclusion and transforming consumer spending behaviour.
With UPI continuing to expand its footprint, RuPay credit cards are expected to play a growing role in bridging digital payments and formal credit access.
22, Apr 2026
Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Compressed Biogas Policy 2026, Clears UGC Pay Scales for Model Colleges
Mumbai, Apr 22 (BNP): The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved the Compressed Biogas (CBG) Policy, 2026, aimed at promoting scientific waste management and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
The policy envisions the development of biogas projects through public-private partnerships under a hybrid annuity model. To ensure smooth execution, district-level coordination committees will be established to oversee implementation and facilitate project development.
The initiative is expected to strengthen waste-to-energy infrastructure, improve waste disposal practices, and contribute to cleaner and more sustainable energy generation.
In addition, the Cabinet has approved the implementation of UGC-recommended pay scales for faculty in model colleges, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the quality of higher education and supporting academic professionals.
These decisions underline the state government’s focus on sustainable development and educational advancement, aiming to create long-term environmental and institutional benefits.
22, Apr 2026
Tesla Expands India Journey with New Model YL and Stronger Service Network
Mumbai, Apr 22 (BNP): Tesla has announced the launch of its second offering in India, the Model YL, a three-row, six-seater electric SUV .
The launch marks a significant step in Tesla’s India expansion, aimed at meeting the growing demand for premium electric vehicles with greater space and versatility.
In addition to expanding its product portfolio, Tesla will strengthen its service and body shop network across cities including Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. The company is also enhancing its charging infrastructure along major highways to support seamless intercity travel.
Commenting on the development, Sharad Agarwal, General Manager, Tesla India, stated that the company is committed to improving accessibility and delivering a superior ownership experience through expanded infrastructure and customer support.
Tesla’s continued investments underscore its long-term commitment to the Indian market and its role in advancing the transition to sustainable mobility.
22, Apr 2026
India’s Seafood Exports Cross INR 72,325 Crore in FY26, Driven by Shrimp Demand and New Market Growth
Apr 22 (BNP): India’s seafood exports have crossed ₹72,325.82 crore in FY26, supported by strong global demand for shrimp and continued diversification into new international markets.
Industry data indicates that shrimp remains the dominant export segment, contributing the largest share of overall seafood shipments. Improved aquaculture practices, better quality control, and expanding export linkages have further strengthened India’s position in global seafood trade.
Exporters have also benefited from gradual diversification beyond traditional markets, with increasing demand emerging from newer destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and select Western regions. This shift has helped cushion the sector against regional trade fluctuations and price volatility.
Despite global supply chain challenges, India’s seafood industry has maintained steady growth, supported by advancements in cold chain infrastructure, processing capacity, and compliance with international standards.
Trade experts note that sustained investment in aquaculture and market expansion strategies will be key to maintaining export momentum in the coming years, especially as global demand for seafood continues to rise.
The sector’s performance underscores its growing importance in India’s agricultural export basket and its contribution to rural livelihoods, particularly in coastal states.
22, Apr 2026
Chardham 2026: Helicopter Operator Warns of Rising Booking Scams
Apr 22 (BNP): As the Chardham Yatra 2026 season gets underway, a Dehradun-based helicopter operator has alerted pilgrims about a rise in fraudulent booking activities targeting devotees planning helicopter travel to Himalayan shrines.
The operator has reported an increase in fake websites, impersonated travel agents, and misleading social media promotions offering guaranteed or discounted helicopter bookings for routes including Kedarnath. These scams, officials say, are particularly active during the early phase of the pilgrimage season when demand is high.
In response, the operator has released a free safety advisory guide aimed at helping pilgrims identify authentic booking channels, avoid advance-payment frauds, and verify authorised service providers before making reservations.
The advisory emphasises that helicopter services for the Chardham circuit are strictly regulated and bookings should only be made through verified and official platforms. Pilgrims have been urged to exercise caution and avoid unverified online offers.
Tourism stakeholders note that such fraudulent activities tend to spike during peak pilgrimage periods due to heavy demand and limited service slots. Authorities are expected to step up awareness efforts to protect devotees and ensure safe travel arrangements.
With increasing pilgrim turnout expected in 2026, officials have also highlighted the need for stronger digital vigilance and public education to curb scam networks targeting religious tourism.
22, Apr 2026
India Faces Food Inflation Risks Ahead of Kharif Season
Apr 22 (BNP): India could witness emerging food inflation risks ahead of the Kharif agricultural season, even with significant government support measures in place, including subsidies valued at approximately USD 18.6 billion, according to a senior economist from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The outlook is influenced by disruptions in global supply chains, particularly those linked to geopolitical tensions affecting critical maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. These disruptions have contributed to volatility in the movement of essential commodities and agricultural inputs.
While domestic policy interventions and subsidy mechanisms continue to provide stability to the agriculture sector, external supply-side pressures remain a key concern for price control and market equilibrium.
The FAO economist noted that maintaining food security will require a combination of strong domestic production, efficient supply chain management, and close monitoring of global trade dynamics.
Authorities are expected to remain vigilant to ensure price stability and protect consumer interests during the upcoming agricultural cycle.
22, Apr 2026
Les Roches Launches SPARK Start-Up Summit to Shape the Future of Hospitality
April 22: Les Roches has unveiled the SPARK Start-Up Summit, a new platform aimed at exploring the evolving dynamics of hospitality, travel, and customer experience. The inaugural edition, held from April 15–17, 2026 at its Crans-Montana campus, brought together startups, industry experts, researchers, and professionals to examine the intersection of technology, human experience, and sustainability in the sector.
Designed as a forward-looking forum, the three-day summit featured startup pitches, keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, with a strong focus on applied research and Swiss innovation. The event underscored a shared industry perspective that hospitality is entering a transformative phase driven by artificial intelligence, data, and changing customer expectations.
A key theme across discussions was the role of AI as an enabler rather than a replacement for human interaction. Speakers highlighted that successful implementation of AI in hospitality depends on reliable data, relevant use cases, and a deep understanding of guest expectations. Carlos Díez de la Lastra noted that the initiative aims to balance innovation with the fundamentally human nature of hospitality, while preparing future leaders to navigate this evolving landscape.
The summit also addressed broader industry challenges, including data governance, experiential luxury, and sustainability. Experts emphasized the need for transparent data practices, locally rooted hospitality models, and a shift from minimizing negative impact to creating positive value for communities and ecosystems.
Strengthening ties with Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem was another key highlight, with participation from Switzerland Innovation Park Network West EPFL and IDIAP Research Institute, reinforcing collaboration between hospitality and advanced research networks.
The start-up competition recognized four ventures—Agimus Technologies, Grill, Noah Journey, and GuestPulse—across multiple award categories. These awards provide incubation support, ecosystem access, and go-to-market opportunities, helping accelerate innovation within the hospitality sector.
SPARK is envisioned as a long-term initiative, creating a collaborative platform for experimentation, dialogue, and real-world application of ideas shaping the future of hospitality. A second edition of the summit has already been announced for February 2027.
With this launch, Les Roches positions itself at the forefront of hospitality innovation, fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to integrate technology, sustainability, and human-centric experiences.
