Category Archives: Business

Farmland Emerges as a Lifestyle-Aligned Investment Choice in India

In India, the conversation around land is changing. People are no longer looking at ownership purely through a returns-driven lens. Families are thinking about their children’s future, elderly buyers are seeking open and peaceful environments, and working professionals want spaces where they can step away from the pace of city life.

Farmland is increasingly fulfilling all these needs. What stands out is the balance it offers, real ownership without daily operational complexity, along with the flexibility to engage as much or as little as one chooses. This makes it especially relevant for modern buyers who want land to add value to their lives, not responsibility.

We’re also seeing strong interest in and around Bangalore, where infrastructure, cultural inclusivity, and long-term economic opportunities come together. The region supports both active careers and future retirement planning, making it a natural choice for farmland ownership.

Interestingly, a growing number of buyers are under 30 and even first-time investors. Coming from families that already own multiple urban properties, they are consciously choosing farmland as a more meaningful, calming, and future-ready asset. As we look toward 2026, farmland is clearly evolving into a resilient and lifestyle-aligned investment class.

Ashis Chattopadhyay Named Cluster Director of Finance at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

Mumbai, Dec 26:  JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar announces the appointment of Ashis Chattopadhyay as Cluster Director of Finance. In this role, Ashis will lead the finance function for eight Marriott hotels under Chalet Hotels Limited, overseeing financial strategy, governance, compliance, and performance across the cluster. With over two decades of experience, he brings strong financial stewardship and a disciplined, outcome-oriented approach to multi-property operations. 

Ashis began his career with Deloitte, gaining extensive experience in audit and advisory services. His professional journey includes senior finance roles with global hospitality brands such as Four Seasons, Hyatt, COMO Group, and Marriott International, where he has successfully driven financial transformation, strengthened internal controls, and enhanced operational efficiencies. Prior to this appointment, he served as Multi-Property Director of Finance for Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway and Four Points Kochi, Infopark. 

Ashis’ leadership has been recognised through several regional and market-level accolades, including awards for finance transformation and technology adoption in South Asia, reflecting his focus on modernising finance operations while maintaining robust governance. 

Driven by a strong belief in disciplined leadership and continuous improvement, Ashis is passionate about developing high-performing teams and future-focused finance functions. His appointment reinforces JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s commitment to excellence, governance, and long-term value creation across the cluster. 

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Expands in Himachal Pradesh with 43-Key Regenta Place Golden Castle, Baddi

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Signs 43-Key Regenta Place Golden Castle in Baddi, Strengthening Presence in Himachal Pradesh

Bengaluru, Dec 26: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, is expanding its footprint in North India with the signing of a new 43-key property, Regenta Place Golden Castle, in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Baddi is widely known as Asia’s largest pharmaceutical hub.

The property is strategically located on the Baddi Nalagarh Road, NH-105, and will operate under a Management Agreement, aligning with the group’s asset-light expansion strategy. Regenta Place Golden Castle is designed to be the perfect base for business travelers, as well as those planning social events like weddings.

Property Details and Features

The Regenta Place Golden Castle offers 43 spacious and well-appointed rooms, featuring modern amenities like LED TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, electronic safe, and mini-bar. The room categories include:

• Suite Rooms (600 sq. ft., 2 units, with bathtub and hill view)
• Super Deluxe Rooms (350 sq. ft., 23 units, with roadside view)
• Deluxe Rooms (320 sq. ft., 9 units, with pleasing view of Hills)
• Executive Rooms (250 sq. ft., 9 units, with pleasing view of the lawn)

Key facilities and services include:

• PINXX: A multi-cuisine restaurant located on the Ground Floor, offering Indian, Chinese, and Continental options.
• Sky Bar and Lounge: An open terrace bar and restaurant.
• Two Banquet halls (Orchid and Orchid-1), and one Meeting room.
• An expansive Lawn spanning 12,000 sq. ft., ideal for weddings and social gatherings.
• Other amenities: Swimming Pool, Spa, 24-hour in-room dining, and High-Speed WIFI.

The property provides smooth connectivity, situated just 2 km from the Baddi Bus stand, 27 km from the Chandigarh Railway station, and 50 km from the Chandigarh Airport.

Speaking on the strategic signing, Mr. Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, said:

“Baddi’s status as a major industrial and pharmaceutical hub makes it a key market for our business traveler segment. The signing of Regenta Place Golden Castle reinforces our strategy to establish a reliable, high-quality presence in important regional centers across North India, offering world-class service combined with exceptional comfort and value.”

GIRI to Host Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale at Mylapore, Chennai

Five-day spiritual exhibition to showcase authentic Shalagramas and traditional sacred offerings

CHENNAI,Dec 26: Following the successful Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale held in Salem, GIRI, India’s leading omnichannel retailer for spiritual and cultural products, is set to host the Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale at its iconic GIRI Traders showroom in Mylapore, Chennai. The spiritually significant five-day exhibition will take place from December 26th to 30th, 2025, offering devotees a rare opportunity to access certified, authentic Shalagramas along with expert guidance.

Held during the auspicious occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, the expo provides devotees a deeply spiritual time to seek divine blessings and reaffirm their devotion to Lord Vishnu.

The Shalagrama Darshan Expo is designed to help devotees understand the origin, identification, and spiritual importance of Shalagramas, revered as the non-anthropomorphic manifestations of Lord Vishnu. Traditionally believed to bestow divine protection, harmony, prosperity, and spiritual well-being, Shalagramas hold a sacred place in Hindu worship, particularly within Vaishnavite traditions.

Visitors to the expo will have the opportunity to deepen their spiritual understanding, seek expert insights, and bring home authentic Shalagramas sourced and certified with utmost care. The initiative reflects GIRI’s continued commitment to preserving ancient spiritual traditions while making them accessible to today’s devotees.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Sharada Prakash said, “Mylapore has always been the spiritual heart of Chennai. Hosting the Shalagrama Expo here is deeply meaningful for us. For generations, GIRI has served as a trusted bridge between devotees and authentic spiritual traditions. Acquiring a Shalagrama is a sacred and personal act of faith, and through this expo, we ensure that devotees receive genuine, certified Shalagramas with proper guidance, enabling them to invite the blessings of Lord Vishnu into their homes for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.”

GIRI warmly invites spiritual seekers, families, devotees, and scholars from Chennai and neighbouring regions to attend this spiritually enriching event and reconnect with one of Hinduism’s most ancient and powerful traditions.

REMCL partners with POWERCON for Long-Term Operations of its Wind Energy Project

Delhi, Dec 24: Rail Energy Management Company Limited (REMCL), a Public Sector Enterprise of Govt of India and a joint venture of the Ministry of Railways and RITES Ltd., has awarded a long-term Operation & Maintenance (O&M) contract to POWERCON for its 26 MW wind power project in Dangri, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Effective 16th December 2025, this decade-long engagement underscores REMCL’s confidence in POWERCON’s deep technical expertise and proven track record in Wind Asset Management.

The 26 MW project comprises 13 units of 2 MW InoxWind turbines that have completed their first 10-year life under the OEM’s care. As the project enters a more demanding second phase of operational life, POWERCON will undertake a comprehensive technical health assessment, remediation of identified issues, and revival of the turbines to optimal operating condition.

Operating in a challenging desert environment characterised by recurring sandstorms, heavy dust loads, and wide temperature swings the restoration of technical health and long-term care of these assets demand specialised domain expertise, robust technological capability, strong analytical and investigative skills, and a performance-oriented asset management approach.

The engagement is being executed in two phases:

Phase 1: focuses on detailed technical diagnostics of the Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs) and Unit Substations, followed by structured remediation to restore full functionality, reassure safety circuit, and stabilise the turbines at optimal performance levels.

Phase 2: spanning 10 years, will prioritise high energy availability, enhanced productivity, improved reliability, and extended asset life. POWERCON’s proven expertise in managing AMSC-technology InoxWind turbines positions it strongly for delivering a complete transformation in REMCL’s asset performance.

“REMCL mission is to drive technical innovation and sustainable strategies in a clean, green and resilient power framework. In their initiative to transform the performance of Wind Power Plant, POWERCON emerged as the most suitable after rigorous technical evaluations of open competitive bidding. POWERCON partnership with REMCL is a strategic investment while sharing the same values and mission of producing ‘more MWh of Energy per MW of installed Power’. POWERCON’s domain expertise and asset management will help in achieving optimum yield and extending the longevity of REMCL wind Plant assets as they enter the second half of their lifecycle.”

Commenting on the association, Mr. Praveen Kakulte, Founder and CEO of the POWERCON Group, said,

“We appreciate the confidence a major PSU has placed in us. REMCL expects a marked improvement in reliability and lifetime performance of the project, and we fully recognise the responsibility this entails. Our focus will be disciplined execution, strong technical governance and ensuring the turbines return to and remain at their optimal operating potential throughout its lifetime.”

With experience across multiple turbine brands, including AMSC-technology InoxWind platforms, and a decade of proven performance exhibit with leading IPPs such as Tata Power, NTPC, SJVN, ReNew, Apraava Energy, O2 Power and Serentica, POWERCON is uniquely positioned to deliver high-performance outcomes for REMCL’s wind assets over the coming decade.

Infidigit Won At Icma Awards 2025 For High-Performance Content Strategy For Mochi Shoes

Mumbai, Dec 24: Infidigit, one of India’s leading SEO, GEO, and digital growth companies, has been recognised at the ICMA Awards 2025 for its impactful work with Mochi Shoes, winning Gold in the Content Category – Best Blogs & Website Content. The award celebrates Infidigit’s ability to design and scale content strategies that deliver sustained performance in a rapidly evolving, AI-influenced search ecosystem.

The winning campaign, “How Mochi Shoes Built Content Over Time, Designed To Perform,” focused on building a long-term, search-led content foundation rather than pursuing short-term visibility gains. By aligning editorial depth with evolving user intent and emerging AI-driven discovery patterns, the strategy enabled Mochi Shoes to strengthen its organic presence while driving consistent, measurable growth.

Infidigit implemented a structured content framework that prioritised topical authority, performance optimisation, and scalability. Blogs and website content were designed to compound value over time, supporting both discovery and conversion across traditional SERPs as well as AI-powered search experiences. As a result, the campaign delivered 23.5% growth in organic clicks and 78.5% growth in impressions. It also strengthened Mochi Shoes’ visibility across AI Overviews and LLM-driven discovery platforms, reinforcing the brand’s relevance in a highly competitive retail category.

“Winning this award alongside Infidigit is a proud moment for Mochi Shoes. The team helped us navigate a shifting digital landscape by building a framework focused on topical authority and performance. This approach establishes Mochi Shoes as a leading industry voice. Our significant growth in organic clicks and impressions shows the success of a strategy designed to adapt as AI search patterns change,” said Rohit Shiva, D2C Head (E-Commerce), Metro Brands Limited.

Notably, this recognition represents Infidigit’s second win in the same content category within the month, underscoring the agency’s consistent approach to building high-performing, search-led content strategies.

The ICMA recognition comes at a time when content marketing is being reshaped by AI-generated summaries and large language models that are redefining how consumers discover information. In this environment, brands require strategies that go beyond volume-driven publishing and instead focus on clarity, structure, and long-term performance. Infidigit’s work with Mochi Shoes reflects this shift, demonstrating how well-engineered content can remain effective even as discovery mechanisms evolve.

“Winning at the ICMA Awards for our work with Mochi Shoes is a strong validation of our content-first, performance-led approach,” said Kaushal Thakkar, Founder & CEO, Infidigit. “As search continues to evolve, content must be designed with intent, precision, and longevity. This campaign highlights how brands can build content ecosystems that adapt to change while delivering measurable outcomes.”

This win further strengthens Infidigit’s position as a trusted digital growth partner for brands navigating the intersection of content, search, and AI-driven visibility.

Detailing Notch Launches in India, Revolutionizes Auto Care with DetailingAtHome

India, Dec 23:- Detailing Notch, a premium auto-care brand, has officially launched in India, aiming to redefine vehicle maintenance with a focus on convenience, performance, and consistency. Co-founded by Shivam Budhiraja and Gautam Budhiraja, founders of the automotive platform Team Car Delight, the brand brings a creator-led perspective shaped by deep consumer insights and years of hands-on experience within India’s automotive community.

At the heart of Detailing Notch is its  DetailingAtHome philosophy, designed to simplify auto care for everyday life. The brand’s products have been rigorously tested across diverse Indian conditions dust-heavy environments, heavy rains, extreme heat, and time-constrained daily routines to ensure reliable performance regardless of location or weather.

Addressing a critical market gap, Detailing Notch provides dependable, convenience-first solutions for vehicle owners who often face products that promise performance but deliver inconsistent results. With two in-house manufacturing facilities, the brand maintains strict control over formulations, quality checks, and production standards. Every product has been refined over nearly two years of research and development to prioritize consistent, real-world performance.

The initial lineup includes a high-performance Waterless Wash, a premium Microfiber Car Duster, and a range of coatings, cleaners, and polishes. Each product is designed to withstand everyday exposure to dust, heat, traffic grime, and changing weather, enabling users to achieve a clean, polished vehicle in minutes.

“At some point, all of us have faced products that look promising on the shelf but underdeliver in practice. Having been part of the creator ecosystem, I understand how audiences value transparency and honest performance. That’s why we built Detailing Notch products that are tested internally, deliver as promised, and integrate effortlessly into daily routines,” says Shivam Budhiraja, Co-Founder & Content Creator.

“Vehicle maintenance shouldn’t be time-consuming. Most people want their vehicles to look great but don’t have the patience for multi-step routines. Detailing Notch offers quick, convenient, and dependable products that fit seamlessly into daily life while delivering a premium finish,” adds Gautam Budhiraja, Co-Founder.

Guided by the philosophy ‘Top Notch or Nothing,’ Detailing Notch enters the Indian auto-care space with a performance-led approach, prioritizing long-term trust and real-world results over exaggerated claims.

The Ultimate Winter Treat: Why Choco Pie Is the Sweetest Companion for Cold Evenings

Bengaluru, Dec 22:  Winter has a way of slowing life down—just enough for us to savour its small, comforting joys. The warm glow of lights, thick blankets, quiet evenings indoors, and the craving for something sweet all make this season feel special. And in these moments, few treats capture the spirit of winter as effortlessly as Lotte Choco Pie.

For many, Lotte Choco Pie is more than a snack—it’s a nostalgic bite that reminds us of simpler days. The soft cake, gooey marshmallow centre, and smooth chocolate coating bring an immediate sense of warmth and comfort, making it a natural winter favourite. Its familiarity appeals across age groups, turning it into a household staple during the colder months. In a season when people turn to familiar flavours and childhood favourites, Lotte Choco Pie stands out as a snack/dessert that never disappoints.

A Comfort Snack That Brings Back Childhood Warmth

Winter often takes us back to memories of growing up snuggling under blankets, watching movies with family, or sipping warm drinks on study nights. Choco Pie fits perfectly into these moments. It offers the kind of uncomplicated joy that feels especially meaningful in today’s fast-paced routines. One bite is enough to spark nostalgia, reminding us of school breaks, shared tiffins, and small celebrations.

The Perfect Pairing for Winter Drinks

Whether it’s hot chocolate, warm milk, spiced chai, or a cinnamon latte, winter beverages feel even better with the right sweet treat. Many enjoy warming a Choco Pie in the microwave for a few seconds until the marshmallow softens and the chocolate lightly melts. Paired with a steaming mug on a cold night, it becomes an instant mood lifter.

A Dessert That Requires No Effort

One reason Choco Pie becomes a winter essential is its ability to transform into comforting desserts with almost no effort—no baking, no preparation, just creativity.

Some popular winter variations include:

1. Warm Choco Pie S’mores with melted chocolate.
2. Choco Pie fondue bites dipped in warm chocolate or caramel
3. Warm Choco Pie mug desserts where a heated Choco Pie is  paired with warm chocolate sauce or custard for an instant winter treat.

In a season when kitchens are busy with guests and celebrations, these ideas show why Choco Pie shines—simple, indulgent, and always ready in minutes.

 A Treat That Brings Families Together

Winter brings families close—holiday breaks, game nights, and cosy weekend gatherings. Choco Pie naturally fits into these moments because everyone enjoys it. Children love the marshmallow centre, adults appreciate the nostalgia, and grandparents often enjoy it with their evening tea. It’s a dessert that crosses generations without effort.

A Sweet Companion for Quiet Evenings

Not every winter night is about celebrating. Some evenings are meant for solitude—a book, a show, or a moment to unwind after a long day. Choco Pie adds comfort to these moments too. It becomes a small reward that makes even the quietest nights feel warmer and more enjoyable.

A Simple but Thoughtful Festive Gift

From Christmas and New Year gifting to Secret Santa exchanges and office treats, Choco Pie has become a popular winter gift. Its universal appeal, attractive packaging and reliability make it a thoughtful choice. Many even use it in DIY winter hampers along with hot chocolate mixes, marshmallows and cookies.

A Winter Staple Worth Stocking

Lotte Choco Pie stands out because it delivers comfort without effort. It’s nostalgic yet relevant, simple yet indulgent, and always satisfying. As the temperatures dip, this humble treat continues to remind us that sometimes the sweetest winter memories come from the simplest things. This winter, as families seek comfort, warmth and togetherness, Choco Pie remains the perfect sweet companion.

India’s Steel Vision Takes Global Shape at Ambassadorial Meet Led by HD Kumaraswamy

Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy held an interactive meeting with Ambassadors and representatives of key partner countries, inviting them to actively participate in Bharat Steel 2026, the flagship international conference-cum-exhibition of the Ministry of Steel, scheduled to be held in April 2026.

The interactive session witnessed strong participation from Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives of countries playing a significant role in the global steel value chain. The meeting formed part of the Ministry’s outreach efforts to deepen international cooperation and strengthen India’s engagement with global steel-producing and steel-consuming nations.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy warmly welcomed the Ambassadors and thanked them for their presence, noting that their participation reflected the importance India places on trusted international partnerships. He underlined that India’s steel sector mirrors the country’s broader economic transformation and has emerged as a pillar of growth, resilience, and global integration.

The Minister highlighted that India is currently the world’s second-largest steel producer, a position achieved through sustained reforms, steady investments, and a clear long-term vision focused on modernization, self-reliance, and sustainability. He noted that the steel sector contributes around 2.5% to India’s GDP and supports nearly 2.8 million livelihoods, with demand driven by infrastructure expansion, manufacturing growth, and strategic sectors such as defence and mobility.

Referring to the National Steel Policy 2017 and the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy said India is progressing steadily towards a steel capacity of 300 million tonnes by 2030, with an even more ambitious target of 500 million tonnes by 2047. These milestones, he said, would further integrate India into global steel value chains and open new avenues for international collaboration.

Against this backdrop, the Union Minister announced that the Ministry of Steel has institutionalized an annual flagship International Conference-cum-Exhibition titled “Bharat Steel.” He informed the gathering that the first edition, Bharat Steel 2026, will be held in April 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Bharat Steel 2026 is envisioned as a global platform bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, technology providers, and buyers from across the world. A key highlight of the event will be a dedicated Reverse Buyer–Seller Meet, aimed at facilitating structured B2B engagements and fostering long-term partnerships.

The conference will focus on expanding steel consumption, promoting sustainability and the circular economy, securing raw material supply chains, accelerating technological innovation, and enabling investments for capacity expansion. It will also deliberate on future-defining themes, including green steel ecosystems, digitally enabled steel plants and mines, efficient utilization of low-grade ores through beneficiation and pelletisation, advanced steels for clean energy and mobility, and the transition towards a circular steel economy.

The Union Minister encouraged Ambassadors and country representatives to facilitate participation from their respective countries, especially industry leaders, technology providers, and investors. He also invited partner nations to participate in Country Roundtables and to associate as Partner Countries at Bharat Steel 2026, stating that such engagement would further strengthen bilateral cooperation and long-term collaboration in the steel sector.

Concluding the interactive session, H.D. Kumaraswamy expressed confidence that with strong international participation, Bharat Steel 2026 will emerge as a landmark global event for the steel industry. He said the Ministry looks forward to welcoming international delegations to New Delhi in April 2026 for what is envisioned to be a defining platform shaping the future of global steel cooperation.

Shardeum Partners with Humanode to Bring Human-Centric Digital Identity to Web3

Dec 20: Shardeum has announced a partnership with Humanode to introduce biometric-based digital identity into its ecosystem, addressing one of Web3’s most persistent challenges: distinguishing real people from bots and fake accounts.

Blockchains are highly effective at verifying wallets, but they struggle to identify the humans behind them. This gap has left dApps exposed, leading to bot-driven airdrop farming, low-quality participation in campaigns, and governance systems vulnerable to manipulation. By integrating Humanode’s Biomapper, Shardeum enables applications to verify unique, real humans without compromising user privacy.

The integration allows developers to build human-aware smart contracts and dApps on Shardeum unlocking fairer airdrops, higher-quality quests, bot-resistant incentives, and more trustworthy community participation. Biometric verification is handled off-chain, with only privacy-preserving cryptographic proofs shared on-chain, ensuring that no raw biometric data is ever exposed.

Nischal Shetty, CoFounder, Shardeum said, “For Web3 to mature, it needs to recognize people, not just wallets. When humans and bots are treated the same, incentives get gamed, communities lose trust, and participation becomes superficial. By working with Humanode, we’re giving developers on Shardeum the ability to design applications around real human participation where fairness, intent, and meaningful engagement matter more than automation or scale.”

Humanode’s Biomapper is currently integrated at the application level on Shardeum, enabling builders to start experimenting with human-verified experiences today. Native SHM support is planned in a future update, further streamlining how identity and value flow across the ecosystem.

Together, Shardeum and Humanode are laying the groundwork for a more human-centric Web3 one where applications are designed around real people, not automated wallets, and where fairness, trust, and meaningful participation can scale alongside decentralization. This partnership marks a step toward ecosystems where incentives reward intent, governance reflects genuine voices, and on-chain activity represents real human engagement.

Developers and ecosystem teams can begin exploring human-verified use cases on Shardeum today by integrating Biomapper into their applications.