27, Mar 2026
India’s Aviation Push Attracts Airbus and Embraer to Expand Local Manufacturing
India’s aviation sector is gaining fresh momentum as global aircraft makers deepen their engagement with the country’s growing market.
Leading aerospace companies Airbus and Embraer are expanding their “Make in India” plans, encouraged by rising demand for regional air travel. This demand is being driven in part by the UDAN Scheme, which has improved connectivity across smaller cities and towns.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia
The increase in regional routes has created a strong need for smaller, fuel-efficient aircraft, prompting manufacturers to look beyond sales and toward long-term investments in India. Both companies are exploring deeper partnerships with local suppliers, with potential plans for assembly lines and expanded manufacturing operations.
These developments reflect a broader shift in India’s aviation landscape—from being primarily a buyer of aircraft to becoming a key player in the global aerospace supply chain. With supportive policies, a growing domestic market, and a skilled workforce, India is positioning itself as an emerging hub for aviation manufacturing.
As investments gather pace, the country’s aviation ambitions are steadily moving from runway to reality.
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- By Neel Achary
27, Mar 2026
India’s Coffee and Tea Exports Gain Momentum Amid Global Shift to Premium Products
Pic Credit: Pexel
India’s coffee and tea exports are on a strong growth path, reflecting changing global tastes and the country’s expanding footprint in value-added segments.
Latest figures from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry show that coffee exports rose sharply by 20% to $1.86 billion during April–February FY26, compared to $1.54 billion a year earlier. Tea exports also posted steady gains, growing 11% to $934.9 million over the same period.
This surge is being driven not just by higher volumes, but by a noticeable shift toward processed and premium offerings such as instant coffee and packaged teas. These products are increasingly preferred in international markets for their convenience and consistency, giving Indian exporters an edge.
According to Kurma Rao M. of the Coffee Board of India, India’s coffee exports have remained above the $1 billion mark for several consecutive years—a sign of resilience in a competitive global market. He noted that this year’s exports have already surpassed last year’s record performance, indicating sustained demand and a positive outlook.
The growth also reflects broader improvements across the supply chain, including better processing capabilities, branding efforts, and market diversification. As global consumers continue to move toward premium and ready-to-consume beverages, India appears well-positioned to deepen its presence and capture greater value in both coffee and tea segments.
27, Mar 2026
India’s Solar Boom: From Modest Beginnings to a Renewable Power Surge
Pic Credit: Pexel
India’s renewable energy journey is gathering remarkable pace, with solar manufacturing and installation witnessing a dramatic transformation over the past decade.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi highlighted the scale of this shift. He noted that India’s solar module manufacturing capacity has soared from a modest 3 GW during the UPA years to an impressive 172 GW today.
The growth story extends beyond modules. Solar cell manufacturing capacity, which was virtually non-existent earlier, has now reached 27 GW. Meanwhile, the country’s overall solar power generation capacity has expanded sharply—from just 2.8 GW to 144 GW—reflecting a broader push toward clean energy adoption.
Joshi also pointed to structural changes supporting this growth. Under the government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, integrated manufacturing projects covering ingots, wafers, and cells are being rolled out nationwide. According to him, such a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem was previously missing.
India’s renewable momentum is not limited to solar alone. The wind energy sector has also grown steadily, with installed capacity increasing from 21 GW in earlier years to 55 GW at present.
At the grassroots level, the shift is becoming increasingly visible. Under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, nearly 10,000 rooftop solar installations are being completed every day. States like Maharashtra are emerging as strong performers in this nationwide push.
The minister added that around 40 lakh rooftop solar systems have been installed during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi—a figure that reflects both policy support and growing public participation.
Taken together, these developments paint a picture of a country rapidly scaling up its renewable energy capabilities—not just through policy announcements, but through visible, on-the-ground change.
27, Mar 2026
Connectivity gains around Jewar Airport begin to show in housing demand in Noida region
New Delhi, Mar 27: The Noida International Airport at Jewar is nearing inauguration. Alongside this, connectivity projects across the region are beginning to show their impact on residential demand across Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway belt. With multiple road links and access routes improving, areas that were earlier seen as distant are now coming into consideration for both homebuyers and investors, according to Star Estate, one of India’s top real estate consultancies.
Recent infrastructure initiatives, which include the new expressway links, elevated corridors and regional connectivity plans are improving access between Delhi, Noida and the upcoming airport zone. These changes are already making travel easier and drawing attention to newer residential pockets across the region.
Commenting on the trend, Mr. Vijay Jain, Director, Star Estate said,
“Large infrastructure projects tend to influence how residential markets evolve. As connectivity improves, areas that were earlier considered peripheral start becoming more practical for both homebuyers and investors.”
A key development boosting sentiment is the recently approved high-speed road corridor connecting Delhi, Faridabad and surrounding NCR regions directly to the Jewar Airport. The project is likely to reduce travel time and make it easier to reach the airport from different parts of NCR.
Alongside this, an elevated stretch under the same plan is expected to ease traffic and improve connectivity between Faridabad and Jewar. Improved access across these routes is already being seen as a positive trigger for residential interest in nearby sectors.
Real estate activity in the Yamuna Expressway and Greater Noida region has started picking up, with visible traction from both developers and buyers. Market enquiries indicate that demand is no longer limited to investors alone.
“We are seeing a mix of buyers entering the market,” Mr. Jain said. “Investors are evaluating long-term potential linked to infrastructure, while end-users are also exploring options, especially in projects that offer better planning, connectivity and everyday liveability.”
The region is also witnessing multiple infrastructure projects progressing simultaneously. Plans for additional elevated corridors and road networks, including a Yamuna-side connectivity route, are expected to improve access from central Noida towards the airport.
At a broader level, improved regional connectivity through proposed rapid transit systems linking Noida, Greater Noida, Faridabad and Gurugram is further strengthening the overall accessibility of the airport region. This multi-layered approach, combining road, expressway and transit connectivity is gradually shaping the region into a more integrated urban cluster.
Mr. Jain noted that this level of parallel infrastructure development is changing the pace at which the market is evolving. “Unlike earlier development cycles, where infrastructure and real estate growth happened in stages, we are now seeing multiple connectivity projects progressing together. This tends to accelerate how quickly a region becomes viable for residential demand,” he said.
He further added that buyer expectations have evolved significantly over time. “Homebuyers today are more informed and careful in their decisions. They are looking for larger homes, efficient layouts and access to social infrastructure such as schools, healthcare and daily conveniences. Connectivity to workplaces and key hubs has become a key deciding factor,” he noted.
Industry observers point out that infrastructure-led development often brings with it commercial activity, logistics hubs and employment opportunities, which in turn support residential demand over time. Mr. Jain explained, “When infrastructure and economic activity begin to move together, it creates a more stable foundation for real estate growth. The regions around the Noida airport are gradually moving in that direction.”
Another factor supporting the market is the upcoming operationalisation of the airport itself. With the project nearing completion, sentiment across the region has strengthened, and early-stage demand is already visible even before full operations begin.
“Real estate growth linked to infrastructure is gradual but steady,” Mr. Jain said. “As connectivity improves and more activity comes into the region, these locations begin to attract consistent residential demand.” Apart from connectivity, the gradual development of social infrastructure is also beginning to support the residential appeal of the region. Schools, healthcare facilities and commercial developments are slowly taking shape across sectors along the Yamuna Expressway and nearby areas.
With better connectivity and visible development across the region, the Noida and Greater Noida belt is now seeing more consistent residential interest. Within Delhi-NCR, the twin cities are gaining interest from both end-users and investors, with better connectivity and visible development on the ground playing a key role in how these locations are being considered.
27, Mar 2026
CaratLane Appoints Yami Gautam Dhar as Its First-Ever Brand Ambassador, Marking a New Chapter in the Brand’s Evolution
Chandigarh, Mar 27: CaratLane, a Tata Group company and India’s leading omnichannel fine jewellery brand, today announced the appointment of acclaimed actor Yami Gautam Dhar as its first-ever Brand Ambassador. The collaboration marks a defining milestone in CaratLane’s journey as the brand enters a new phase of scale, visibility, and cultural relevance.
Known for her authenticity, powerful performances, and critically acclaimed work across cinema, Yami represents the modern Indian woman—self-made, confident, and effortlessly elegant. Her personality and aesthetic sensibilities align seamlessly with CaratLane’s design language and brand ethos, making her a natural choice to represent the brand. This association marks an important step in CaratLane’s brand journey as it continues to strengthen its cultural relevance and deepen its connection with consumers who value contemporary design, authenticity, and everyday elegance.
Speaking on the collaboration, Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director of CaratLane, said:
“Bringing Yami Gautam Dhar on board as CaratLane’s first-ever brand ambassador marks a significant moment for us. Yami represents values that resonate deeply with our brand: authenticity, elegance, and a modern perspective on success. She has carved her own path with credibility and grace, and her aesthetic sensibility makes her a natural fit for CaratLane.”
Expressing her excitement about the association, Yami Gautam Dhar said
“CaratLane has beautifully reimagined how modern India experiences fine jewellery, making it stylish, versatile, and a part of everyday expression. I love how their designs strike a balance between elegance and contemporary sensibilities. I’m delighted to be associated with the brand and look forward to being part of this exciting journey.”
The collaboration reflects CaratLane’s continued focus on building deeper cultural and emotional connections with consumers. By partnering with a personality who embodies authenticity, confidence, and modern elegance, the brand aims to further strengthen its narrative of jewellery that seamlessly fits into everyday life while celebrating meaningful moments, reinforcing its position as a go-to destination for accessible fine jewellery.
27, Mar 2026
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry Backs India’s Push for Transparent, Development-Centric WTO Reforms
By- Mr. Rajeev Juneja, President, PHDCCI.
We welcome India’s positive engagement at the WTO Ministerial Conference with emphasis on a transparent, and development-centric reform agenda. A functional dispute settlement system to address expanding role of agriculture a balanced outcomes on fisheries subsidies remain critical priorities for India. Emerging issues such as digital trade and technology governance require careful, consensus-based consideration rather than adhoc measures resulting in unnecessary disputes later
27, Mar 2026
Tendo named to Forbes Top Startup Employers for third consecutive year
Recognition Highlights Momentum in Tendo’s Insights and Marketplace Products
Philadelphia, PA — Mar 27 — Tendo, a healthcare technology company that partners with patients, clinicians, employers, and care navigators to put clinical quality at the center of every care decision, has been named one of Forbes’ Top Startup Employers for the third consecutive year. The recognition reflects the company’s growth, product innovation, and strong culture as it continues to scale its provider quality and two-sided healthcare marketplace offerings.
Forbes’ annual list, developed in partnership with Statista, evaluates privately held U.S. companies based on employer reputation, employee satisfaction, and sustained growth. Tendo’s third-year recognition underscores both its expanding national footprint and the team driving its software innovation.
“Earning this recognition for a third year reflects both our growth and the values that guide how we build Tendo,” said Jennifer Goldsmith, CEO and Co-Founder of Tendo. “As we expand our healthcare marketplace and quality analytics offerings, we remain focused on attracting and supporting exceptional, mission-driven people who are passionate about improving how care decisions are made.”
Tendo’s platform addresses a critical moment in healthcare, as traditional fee-for-service models become increasingly complex and costly for both consumers and employers. With the rise of self-insured employer plans and consumer self-pay care, greater transparency and visibility into provider quality have become essential. Today, Tendo supports a growing national network of employers, care navigators, and healthcare providers using its platform to guide high-value care decisions at scale. By enabling more informed choices, transparent and predictable pricing, and quality-based differentiation for providers, Tendo helps support better outcomes and a more sustainable healthcare delivery system.
27, Mar 2026
India’s Health Insurance Sector Grows 9%, Premiums Top Rs.1.2 Lakh Crore
New Delhi, March 27 (BNP): India’s health insurance sector continued its strong growth trajectory in 2024–25, with total premium collections crossing ₹1.2 lakh crore, reflecting rising awareness, improved access to healthcare financing, and increasing demand for financial protection against medical expenses.
The sector recorded an approximate growth rate of around 9 per cent during the financial year, underlining sustained expansion driven by demographic shifts, higher coverage uptake, and evolving consumer needs.
To enhance efficiency and ensure timely support for policyholders, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has prescribed specific timelines for the settlement of cashless health insurance claims. As per the norms, insurers are required to provide cashless pre-authorisation within one hour and final authorisation within three hours, aimed at reducing delays and facilitating quicker access to treatment.
The rise in health insurance premiums has been attributed to factors such as ageing policyholders, expanded coverage, and the inclusion of enhanced features in insurance products. The regulator’s 2024 guidelines mandate that insurance products be priced fairly, based on relevant risk factors, while ensuring long-term viability and value for customers. Pricing is subject to periodic review by appointed actuaries using credible data and customer feedback.
On claims performance, the claims paid ratio (by number of claims) improved to 87.50 per cent in 2024–25, compared to 82.46 per cent in 2023–24 and 85.66 per cent in 2022–23, indicating better settlement outcomes.
According to data from IRDAI’s Bima Bharosa portal, a total of 1,37,361 general and health insurance grievances were reported during FY25, of which 1,27,755 cases, or 93 per cent, were resolved within the same financial year.
Industry data suggests that instances of claim disallowance or repudiation are largely linked to specific policy conditions, including exceeding the sum insured, co-payment clauses, sub-limits, deductibles in top-up policies, room rent caps, proportionate charges, and exclusions such as non-medical expenses.
The regulator has also undertaken multiple measures to improve transparency, streamline claims processing, and strengthen policyholder confidence. Experts note that a balanced and informed approach by all stakeholders will be key to building a more transparent and trustworthy health insurance ecosystem in the country.
27, Mar 2026
Piyush Goyal Leads India at WTO MC14, Calls for Inclusive Reforms
Yaounde, March 27 (BNP): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is leading the Indian delegation to the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) of the World Trade Organization, which commenced on March 26 in Yaounde.
The conference opened with a ceremonial session chaired by Cameroon’s Trade Minister and attended by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala along with trade ministers and senior representatives from member nations. Representing India at the inaugural session, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal participated in the proceedings.
The opening session was followed by a brief celebration marking the entry into force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies on September 15, 2025.
During the Ministerial Conversation on foundational issues of the WTO, Goyal underscored the need for reforms to be undertaken through a transparent, inclusive, and member-driven process, with development at its core. He stressed the importance of upholding key WTO principles, including non-discrimination, consensus-based decision-making, and equity.
On the sidelines of the conference, Goyal called on Cameroon’s Prime Minister Dion Ngute Joseph, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation between India and Cameroon. He also held a bilateral meeting with the WTO Director-General to deliberate on the MC14 agenda.
In addition, Goyal met his counterparts from the Netherlands, France, and Ethiopia, exchanging views on enhancing bilateral trade relations.
Separately, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held a series of bilateral engagements with representatives from Chile, Paraguay, the United States, Nepal, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Peru, Russia, New Zealand, and members of the European Union Parliament. The discussions covered the MC14 agenda and explored avenues for boosting trade ties.
Talks with Chile and Peru included updates on the ongoing India-Chile and India-Peru Free Trade Agreement negotiations. Discussions with the European Union and New Zealand focused on progress toward concluding the India-EU and India-New Zealand trade agreements.
The day’s proceedings concluded with a ceremonial reception and gala dinner hosted by Cameroon.
27, Mar 2026
Founder of Leadership Story Lab Esther Choy Turns Traditional Business Storytelling on Its Head in Transformational New Book
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 27, 2026) – Esther Choy started teaching leadership storytelling long before it was “a thing.” Since 2010, Choy has coached thousands of business leaders across a wide array of industries, harnessing the power of story to build trust, ignite connection, and inspire action as CEO and Chief Story Facilitator at Leadership Story Lab.
In her highly anticipated second book, Winning Without Persuading: A New Framework for Leading with Curiosity and Story Discovery (HarperCollins Leadership, May 5, 2026), Choy offers a revolutionary approach – leadership storytelling built on uncovering the hidden stories that change everything.
“If you lead today, you are operating in a time when trust is brittle, attention is fractured, and AI and automation are redrawing the boundaries of what human communication even means,” writes Choy. “Leaders cannot afford to wait until they are on stage or under pressure to begin.”
In the book, Choy turns conventional business storytelling on its head, showing that the real power of story in leadership isn’t only about spotlighting yourself. As Esther says, “the best way to get someone’s attention is by giving them yours. By encouraging others to share their stories, leaders not only gain a deeper understanding but also demonstrate a genuine desire to connect on a human level.”
Choy shares many of these revolutionary storytelling principles and stories in the book, based on her experience with guiding individuals, teams, and organizations on leadership communication.
Since 2020, she has taught leaders to master the art of storytelling and equipped them to empower others to tell their stories through the transformative 6-week Certified Story Facilitator course.
This book is written for now, for the leaders who recognize that every conversation holds more than content, every team carries more than metrics, every moment could be a mirror.
Esther K. Choy is the CEO and Chief Story Facilitator at Leadership Story Lab, where she coaches leaders across industries to harness the power of story to build trust, ignite change, and inspire action. The author of Let the Story Do the Work and a top contributor to Forbes’ Leadership Strategy channel, her work has also been featured in Harvard Business Review, the New York Times, and Entrepreneur magazine. Currently completing her MFA in Creative Writing at DePaul University, Esther blends business rigor with narrative craft to redefine leadership as an act of connection and transformation. Her latest book, Winning Without Persuading, will be available nationwide on May 5, 2026.
Leadership Story Lab equips leaders with skills in business storytelling through coaching, training, and certification in facilitation. For 15 years, the firm has coached thousands of leaders—from Fortune 500 executives to entrepreneurs and changemakers—helping them communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact.
HarperCollins Leadership publishes content from leaders who redefine or expand what a reader previously thought possible. Authors provide unique inspiration and experiences to those who seek to learn, make a difference, and find their own version of success.
