23, Jul 2026
India Emerges as a Preferred Investment Destination for European Companies: Report
New Delhi, July 23: India is increasingly being viewed as a favourable investment destination by European companies, supported by its strong economic growth, expanding market opportunities, and improving business environment, according to a recent report.
The report highlighted that India’s large consumer base, skilled workforce, growing digital ecosystem, and ongoing infrastructure development are among the key factors attracting European businesses to invest in the country.
European companies are showing greater interest in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, automobiles, and financial services, driven by India’s growth potential and policy initiatives aimed at encouraging foreign investment.
The report noted that India’s focus on strengthening supply chains, promoting innovation, and enhancing ease of doing business has further improved its appeal among global investors.
Industry experts said that deeper economic cooperation between India and Europe could create new opportunities for trade, investment, and technology partnerships.
With its expanding economy and strategic position in global markets, India continues to strengthen its role as a major destination for international businesses seeking long-term growth opportunities.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Jul 2026
72 percent in South India Prioritise Balanced Diet, Bengaluru, Hyderabad Touch 75 percent, Finds ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026
Bangalore, July 23: ManipalCigna Health Insurance, one of India’s leading health insurers, has released insights specific to South India from India Health Quotient (IHQ) 2026. The IHQ is a proprietary multi-dimensional index measuring self-assessed health across five dimensions: Physical, Mental, Financial, Occupational, and Social. The study covered urban Indians across 16 cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Coimbatore from the southern region.
India‘s overall health score stands at 65 out of 100, while South India recorded an overall score of 63 out of 100. Across urban Indians, physical health is leading at 68, while financial health trails at 62, the lowest score across all dimensions and a critical aspect requiring greater attention.
Interestingly, 72% of respondents from South India prioritize eating a healthy, balanced diet in their top 5 aspects of physical health vs 65% in rest of India. This is most notable in the new age tech metros of Bengaluru, Hyderabad (75%). It reflects a larger shift across urban India, where people are consciously moving towards healthier lifestyles and making food choices a part of how they manage their overall wellbeing. On the other hand, the findings also highlight opportunities to strengthen mental well-being, with only 49% reporting strong focus and clarity of mind and 47% feeling confident in their ability to adapt to sudden change.
The study also reveals that health insurance ownership is one of the most promising predictors of overall wellbeing in India. Indians with health insurance score 68/100 on the India Health Quotient, compared to 62/100 for uninsured urban Indians, a 6-point gap that remains consistent across every cohort, region, age group, gender, and stress level. Across the cohorts and stress level tested in the study, insured Indians reported higher wellbeing scores than their uninsured counterparts on physical, mental and financial dimensions alike.
This “Wellbeing Premium” is notably larger than the gender gap (men and women both score 65/100) and exceeds regional differences between major metros like Mumbai (62/100) and Bengaluru (63/100) and surpasses the gap between India‘s youngest and oldest age groups (63/100 vs 65/100). The gap does not diminish even when controlling for stress levels, suggesting that health insurance ownership is associated with meaningfully better wellbeing outcomes across all population segments.
Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said, “The India Health Quotient asks a simple question: how does India actually feel? It shows that health is multi-dimensional, with people balancing physical, mental, financial, and work and social wellbeing, and gaps in one area often affecting the others. South India stands out for its focus on healthy eating, with 72% prioritizing a balanced diet, rising to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. However, this physical discipline does not fully offset everyday pressures. Across regions, we also see that health insurance ownership helps narrow wellbeing gaps, reinforcing that protection is an important part of overall wellbeing.”
As Karnataka continues its growth journey, the need for greater awareness around healthcare financing and financial protection remains important. With changing healthcare needs and rising medical costs, health insurance can play a critical role in helping individuals and families manage healthcare expenses while ensuring access to quality care when needed.
The ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026 underscores the company’s commitment to going beyond traditional health insurance by developing a deeper, evidence-based understanding of how Indians experience wellbeing. With this, the company reaffirms its focus on building more responsive, holistic health solutions for a rapidly evolving India
23, Jul 2026
BSE Expands Market Benchmarking with New Index Covering Nearly Entire Equity Landscape
Mumbai, July 23: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has introduced a new Total Market Index aimed at providing a wider and more comprehensive view of India’s equity market by representing nearly 98 per cent of the market capitalisation covered under the BSE AllCap Index.
The new benchmark is designed to capture the performance of companies across different segments of the market, giving investors a broader perspective on overall market movements and trends.
BSE said the index will serve as an important tool for investors, fund managers, and market participants seeking a diversified representation of India’s listed companies. It may also support the creation of investment products such as index-based funds and other market-linked instruments.
The launch reflects the exchange’s focus on developing innovative market solutions, improving transparency, and strengthening the investment ecosystem in India.
Financial experts believe that comprehensive market indices help investors better understand market performance and make informed decisions by providing wider sector and company representation.
With the introduction of the Total Market Index, BSE aims to enhance market tracking capabilities and offer a more inclusive benchmark for India’s growing equity market.
23, Jul 2026
India’s Aviation Ambition Takes Flight as MRO Sector Gears Up for Global Role
New Delhi, July 23: India is strengthening its position in the global aviation industry with a major push to develop the country into a leading hub for Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services.
The government said the rapid expansion of India’s aviation market, rising aircraft numbers, and increasing demand for maintenance services are creating significant opportunities for the growth of the MRO sector.
Efforts are underway to build world-class maintenance facilities, improve aviation infrastructure, attract investment, and develop a skilled workforce to meet the growing needs of the industry. These measures are aimed at reducing dependence on overseas maintenance centres and enhancing India’s capabilities in aerospace services.
The growth of the MRO ecosystem is expected to support the domestic aviation sector, create employment opportunities, and encourage the development of related industries, including aircraft components and engineering services.
Industry experts said that stronger infrastructure, advanced technology adoption, and a robust supply chain network will help India compete effectively in the global aviation maintenance market.
With continued policy support and rising demand for air travel, India is emerging as a promising destination for aircraft maintenance services and a key player in the international aviation ecosystem.
23, Jul 2026
Intertek India and Sportz Village Foundation Champion a Collaborative Approach to Strengthening India’s Grassroots Sports Ecosystem
New Delhi, 23 July: As India continues its emergence as a global sporting nation, the conversation is increasingly shifting from celebrating podium finishes to strengthening the systems that make those achievements possible. Recognising that lasting sporting success begins at the grassroots, Intertek India and Sportz Village Foundation hosted a leadership engagement in New Delhi for corporate leaders, sports development experts, elite athletes and young sporting talent to explore how collective action can help build a stronger sporting ecosystem for the country.
The event brought together Intertek South Asia leaders Ankita Agarwal, Regional HR Director and Ashish Gupta, Regional CFO with Sportz Village Foundation’s Radhika Yelkur, Head of Delivery and Sandeep Rao, Head of Corporate Partnerships, Arjuna Awardee and Indian sport shooter Anjum Moudgil, along with a group of promising state and national-level athletes supported through Sports For All – a talent identification and athlete nurturance initiative launched this year by Intertek India, and implemented with the help of Sportz Village Foundation.
Sports For All seeks to identify India’s emerging young sporting talent and provide them with access to the guidance, opportunities and developmental ecosystem needed to progress towards higher levels of competition. While financial support remains important, the initiative reflects a broader philosophy – that athletes thrive when they are backed by an ecosystem that nurtures both sporting excellence and personal growth.
At the heart of the event was a panel discussion exploring how stronger collaboration between corporates, sports organisations, schools and public institutions can create more meaningful opportunities for aspiring athletes across the country.
The panel discussed several critical aspects of athlete development, including mental resilience, athlete livelihoods, access to quality coaching, sports science, the role of schools in encouraging participation and the importance of stronger public-private partnerships in expanding access to structured sporting opportunities. The conversation reinforced a shared belief that India‘s sporting ambitions can only be realised through long-term collaboration across sectors, with each stakeholder playing a distinct yet interconnected role in supporting young athletes.
Delivering the keynote address, Anjum Moudgil reflected on her own journey as an elite athlete, sharing insights into the discipline, perseverance and resilience required to compete at the highest level. She emphasized that behind every successful athlete is an ecosystem of support – families, coaches, mentors, institutions and organizations – that invest consistently in an athlete’s journey, often long before success becomes visible.
“Every athlete’s journey is shaped by the support they receive long before success arrives. Initiatives like Sport For All create that foundation by giving young athletes the opportunities, guidance and belief they need to pursue their full potential.”
A significant highlight of the event was the unveiling of the official Sports For All jersey, symbolizing the shared commitment of Intertek India and Sportz Village Foundation towards creating structured development pathways for young athletes. More than a ceremonial moment, the jersey represents a collective promise to invest in potential, create opportunities and accompany athletes through every stage of their sporting journey.
Speaking on the occasion,
“At Intertek, our CSR commitment is to create sustainable social impact by empowering communities and expanding opportunities for future generations. Through Sports For All, we are proud to support India’s grassroots talent and contribute to the vision of a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive Viksit Bharat.”
– Ankita Agarwal
Regional HR Director, Intertek
“Through initiatives like Sport For All we’re working with Intertek India to build meaningful pathways that help young budding athletes access the support they need to grow, compete and succeed.“
– Radhika Yelkur
Head of Delivery, Sportz Village Foundation
As India strives to become one of the world’s leading sporting nations, the focus must extend beyond celebrating medals to strengthening the systems that identify and nurture talent from an early stage. Through its Sports For All initiative, Intertek India, in partnership with Sportz Village Foundation, is working to build stronger pathways for young athletes by expanding access to structured support, mentorship and development opportunities, while contributing to a more inclusive and resilient grassroots sporting ecosystem.
23, Jul 2026
India’s Pharma and Healthcare Deals Hold Strong at Dollar 13.9 Billion in Q2 2026
July 23: India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors continued to attract strong investor interest, with deal activity remaining resilient at $13.9 billion in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting confidence in the long-term growth potential of the industry.
The sector maintained momentum amid evolving global market conditions, supported by rising healthcare demand, innovation-driven growth, and increasing investments in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare services.
Industry analysts said the continued strength in deal values highlights the attractiveness of India’s healthcare ecosystem, backed by expanding domestic consumption, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and growing opportunities in research and development.
The pharma and healthcare sectors have witnessed increased strategic investments as companies focus on strengthening capabilities, expanding market reach, and developing new technologies and treatments.
Experts noted that India’s growing healthcare needs, favourable business environment, and role as a major global pharmaceutical supplier continue to support investor confidence.
The resilient deal activity underscores the sector’s importance in India’s economic growth story and its expanding role in the global healthcare landscape.
23, Jul 2026
Nepal’s Power Export Boom: Electricity Sales to India and Bangladesh Generate Record Revenue
Kathmandu, July 23: Nepal has achieved record revenue from electricity exports to India and Bangladesh, highlighting the rapid progress of its hydropower sector and growing importance in South Asia’s regional energy market.
The increase in power exports comes as Nepal continues to expand its renewable energy capacity and strengthen cross-border electricity cooperation with neighbouring countries. The development has provided a major boost to the country’s foreign exchange earnings while supporting long-term economic growth.
Nepal’s hydropower potential has attracted increasing regional demand, with India and Bangladesh emerging as key markets for its clean energy exports. Improved transmission links and energy-sharing agreements have played an important role in facilitating the growth of electricity trade.
Government officials said the rise in export revenue reflects Nepal’s efforts to develop sustainable energy resources and position itself as a reliable clean power supplier in the region.
Energy experts noted that further investment in hydropower projects, transmission infrastructure, and regional cooperation will be essential for maintaining growth in electricity exports and enhancing energy security across South Asia.
The record earnings mark a significant milestone for Nepal’s energy sector and underline the potential of renewable energy cooperation among neighbouring countries.
23, Jul 2026
PM Modi’s Three-Nation Visit Strengthens India’s Indo-Pacific Engagement
New Delhi, July 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three-nation visit marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s strategic partnerships and expanding its engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.
The visit focused on enhancing cooperation with partner countries in areas including trade, defence, maritime security, technology, connectivity, and regional stability. The engagements highlighted India’s growing role in promoting peace, prosperity, and collaboration across the Indo-Pacific.
During the visit, discussions with global partners centred on deepening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for economic and strategic cooperation. Leaders exchanged views on regional and global challenges while reaffirming their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The outreach reflects India’s broader foreign policy approach of building stronger partnerships with like-minded nations and increasing collaboration in areas critical to regional growth and security.
Experts said the visit underscores India’s expanding diplomatic footprint and its efforts to strengthen strategic ties amid changing geopolitical dynamics. Enhanced cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners is expected to contribute to economic growth, maritime stability, and regional resilience.
The three-nation tour further highlights India’s commitment to active participation in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific through dialogue, partnerships, and shared interests.
23, Jul 2026
Indian Railways Approves Rs 440 Crore Third Line Project to Boost High-Density Route Capacity
July 23: The Indian Railways has approved a major infrastructure project worth Rs 440 crore to develop a third railway line on a high-density route, aimed at improving operational efficiency and strengthening rail connectivity.
The project is expected to enhance train movement capacity, reduce congestion on the busy corridor, and support smoother transportation of passengers and freight. The additional line will help the Railways manage increasing traffic demand while improving punctuality and operational flexibility.
Railway authorities said the expansion is part of ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s railway network through capacity enhancement projects, route upgrades, and infrastructure development.
The third line initiative will also contribute to faster movement of goods, benefiting industries and supporting economic activity along the corridor. Improved rail infrastructure is expected to provide better connectivity and strengthen the overall logistics network.
The project reflects Indian Railways’ continued focus on expanding capacity, upgrading existing routes, and creating a more efficient and reliable transportation system.
23, Jul 2026
ARHomez Introduces AI-Driven Home Automation Solutions to Build Safer, Smarter and More Sustainable Living Spaces
New Delhi, July 23rd: ARHomez, a leading provider of smart home and office automation solutions, today announced the expansion of its AI-driven home automation ecosystem, designed to deliver seamless living experiences through intelligent automation, advanced security systems, smart lighting and connected infrastructure. The integrated solution enables homeowners and businesses to manage multiple functions through a unified platform, making spaces more secure, energy-efficient and convenient.
As demand for smart infrastructure continues to accelerate across India, ARHomez is focused on enabling customers to adopt intelligent technologies that simplify everyday living while optimizing energy consumption. The company’s AI-driven automation solutions allow users to remotely control lighting, climate, entertainment systems, security devices, curtains, smart locks and other connected appliances through intuitive mobile and voice-enabled interfaces.
Founded in 2018 by Rajesh Kumar Garhwal with an initial investment of ₹5 lakh, ARHomez has steadily evolved into one of Delhi NCR’s trusted smart automation companies, serving homeowners, architects, builders and commercial establishments across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad. Today, the company has achieved an annual turnover of approximately ₹6 crore by consistently delivering customized automation solutions backed by reliable installation and after-sales support.
Commenting on the announcement, Rajesh Kumar Garhwal, Founder, ARHomez, said: “Smart automation is no longer a luxury reserved for premium homes—it is becoming an essential part of modern living. At ARHomez, our vision is to make intelligent technologies more accessible by creating connected spaces that enhance comfort, improve safety and promote sustainable living. Through AI-driven automation, we are helping homeowners and businesses experience greater convenience while making smarter use of energy and resources.”
ARHomez offers a comprehensive portfolio of intelligent automation solutions, including smart lighting automation, AI-enabled home security systems, CCTV surveillance, video door phones, smart locks, motorized curtain automation, climate control systems, integrated entertainment automation and complete home and office automation. These solutions are designed to provide personalized experiences while improving operational efficiency and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
With increasing awareness around energy conservation and connected living, ARHomez continues to invest in advanced technologies that enable predictive automation, remote monitoring and intelligent control. By combining innovation with customer-centric service, the company aims to accelerate the adoption of smart infrastructure across residential and commercial developments in India.
Going forward, ARHomez remains committed to expanding its AI-powered automation capabilities while delivering reliable, scalable and future-ready solutions that empower customers to build safer, smarter and more sustainable living environments.
