30, Mar 2026
MSMEs Seek Relief as Global Crisis Raises Costs and Uncertainty
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across India are facing increasing pressure due to the ongoing tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted global trade and pushed up fuel prices. As logistics costs rise and supply chains become uncertain, small businesses—often operating with limited financial buffers—are among the hardest hit.
Pic Credit: Pexel
One of the main reasons MSMEs need relief is the sharp increase in transportation and raw material costs, driven by volatile crude oil prices. Higher freight charges, insurance premiums, and delays in shipments are making it difficult for exporters to remain competitive. At the same time, domestic inflation is raising operating expenses, squeezing already thin profit margins.
The primary objective of government relief measures is to stabilise these businesses and prevent job losses. Support packages aim to reduce cost burdens, ensure easier access to credit, and maintain steady production and exports. Protecting MSMEs is also crucial because they contribute significantly to employment and play a key role in sustaining local economies.
With timely intervention, the government hopes to shield small enterprises from global shocks while ensuring continuity in economic activity during a period of uncertainty.
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- By Neel Achary
30, Mar 2026
Prime Video Sets April 17 Premiere for Vijay Varma’s Matka King
Mumbai, Mar 30: Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today, celebrated Vijay Varma’s birthday by announcing April 17 as the worldwide premiere date of his upcoming Prime Original drama Matka King. Created and written byAbhay Koranne and created and directed byNagraj Popatrao Manjule, this compelling series is set in the fast-changing Bombay of the 1960s and traces the fictional journey of an enterprising cotton trader who creates a new gambling system, dubbed ‘Matka’, turning an elite pastime into a nationwide phenomenon. The series is produced bySiddharth Roy Kapur, Nagraj Popatrao Manjule,Gargi Kulkarni,Ashwini Sidwani, andAshish Aryan, under the banners of Roy Kapur Films, Aatpat, and SMR Productions. Matka King featuresVijay Varma,Kritika Kamra,Sai Tamhankar,Siddharth Jadhav,Bhupendra Jadawat, andGulshan Grover in lead roles along withVineet Kumar Singh,Bharat Jadhav,Girish Kulkarni,Jamie Lever,Kishor Kadam,Cyrus Sahukar, Arpita Sethia,Sambhaji Tangade,Ishtiyak Khan,Sanjivv Jotangia, andSimran Ashwini in pivotal roles. The series is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video, in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide on April 17.
Matka King follows Brij Bhatti, a sharp-minded and enterprising cotton trader, played by the dynamic Vijay Varma, who navigates the fast-changing landscape of 1960s Bombay in pursuit of legitimacy and respect. Set against a world of bustling markets, crowded chawls, and shifting power dynamics, what begins as an ambitious idea soon takes on a life of its own, drawing in people across social strata. As aspirations grow and stakes rise, the series unfolds into a gripping narrative shaped by ambition, power, and belonging.
“Matka King is a gripping story of one man’s journey to succeed against all odds in a changing world, told in a way that will surprise audiences,” said Nikhil Madhok, director & head of Originals, Prime Video, India.“The tale of Brij Bhatti’s rise as the Mata King is equal parts fascinating and cautionary. We are thrilled to have partnered with Roy Kapur Films, Aatpat, and SMR Productions to bring this bold story to viewers worldwide on April 17”
Siddharth Roy Kapur, co-producer for Matka King, shared,
“What drew us to Matka King was the scale and uniqueness of the world it is set in, and the story of an individual navigating ambition, identity, and the pursuit of respect in a rapidly evolving society. It is a narrative rooted in a specific time and place, yet universally relatable in its exploration of human aspirations and choices. Combining forces with Nagraj Popatrao Manjule, whose extraordinary work I have always admired has been extremely rewarding. And the talented Abhay Koranne, who we have successfully collaborated with before, has brought a distinct creative vision and authenticity to the storytelling. With a stellar ensemble led by Vijay Varma, Kritika Kamra, and Gulshan Grover, the series is brought to life with remarkable depth and nuance. We are delighted to deepen our collaboration with Prime Video on this ambitious project and look forward to bringing Matka King to audiences starting April 17, only on Prime Video”
30, Mar 2026
KIMS Cardiologist Receives National Recognition at INDIA LIVE 2026
Visakhapatnam, Mar 30: Dr. Ganesh Kasinadhuni, Chief Interventional Cardiologist at KIMS Hospital, Seethammadhara, has received national recognition at INDIA LIVE 2026, one of the country’s most prestigious conferences in the field of interventional cardiology. He was honoured with the “Top 5 Best Cases Appreciation Award” for his outstanding clinical presentation. The conference witnessed participation from leading cardiologists across India, with over 1,000 complex cases submitted from various institutions. Of these, only around 250 cases were selected for oral presentation, reflecting the highly competitive nature of the event.
Dr. Kasinadhuni, who also served as a member of the national faculty, presented a complex cardiac case managed at KIMS Hospital. The case involved severe calcific blockages in the coronary arteries, particularly in the challenging left main bifurcation region. He detailed the successful management strategy adopted to treat this high-risk condition.
The procedure involved advanced techniques such as calcium modification and plaque disruption using rotablation and intravascular lithotripsy. The intervention was further guided by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), an advanced imaging modality, enabling precise stent placement and optimal clinical outcomes.
His presentation was widely appreciated by peers for its clinical depth, structured approach, and educational value. In recognition of its significance and impact, the case was selected among the top five presentations and honoured during the valedictory session of the conference.
This achievement underscores KIMS Hospitals’ commitment to delivering advanced cardiac care and highlights its leadership in adopting cutting-edge techniques in interventional cardiology.
30, Mar 2026
Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Showcases Destination Excellence at India International Travel Mart, Kolkata
Kolkata, Mar 30: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department marked a significant presence at the India International Travel Mart (IITM), held from 27–29 March 2026 at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata. The participation highlighted the region’s diverse tourism offerings and reinforced its position as one of India’s most captivating travel destinations.
Representing the department were Rashmi Deepika Razdan, Director – Finance, Tourism Department, and Peer Zahid Ahmad, Deputy Director, Tourism Kashmir. Their presence underscored the department’s commitment to strengthening trade partnerships and expanding outreach in key domestic markets such as West Bengal. Jammu & Kashmir Tourism is the Partner State at this year’s edition of ‘India International Travel Mart’ at Kolkata.
The Jammu & Kashmir pavilion drew considerable attention from travel trade professionals, tour operators, and visitors, offering insights into the region’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and experiential tourism. From the serene landscapes of the Kashmir Valley to the spiritual circuits of Jammu and emerging adventure tourism opportunities, the showcase emphasized the region’s versatility for leisure, pilgrimage, and experiential travel.
Speaking on the occasion, officials highlighted Jammu & Kashmir’s renewed focus on sustainable tourism, infrastructure development, and enhanced connectivity. The participation at IITM provided an ideal platform to engage with stakeholders, promote curated travel experiences, and encourage increased tourist inflow from eastern India.
The delegation also held productive B2B interactions with travel agents, tour operators, and hospitality partners, exploring collaborations to design customized itineraries and promote year-round tourism. Special emphasis was placed on promoting lesser-explored destinations, winter tourism, and experiential offerings such as houseboat stays, trekking, and cultural tours.
Visitors to the pavilion were introduced to the region’s evolving tourism narrative—one that combines heritage with modern infrastructure, and tradition with contemporary travel experiences. Informational material, destination presentations, and interactive discussions helped create awareness about the wide spectrum of travel opportunities available in Jammu & Kashmir.
The India International Travel Mart continues to serve as a premier platform connecting tourism stakeholders across India and beyond. Jammu & Kashmir Tourism’s participation not only strengthened its visibility in the eastern market but also reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the region as a safe, accessible, and must-visit destination.
As the event concluded, the delegation expressed optimism about forging new partnerships and attracting increased tourist interest in the coming seasons, further contributing to the growth of tourism in the Union Territory.
28, Mar 2026
Gold Surges Over 5% This Week as Crude Prices Ease
Pic Credit: Pexel
Gold prices gained more than 5% this week, supported by a decline in crude oil prices and easing inflation concerns. The drop in energy costs reduced pressure on global markets, boosting demand for gold as a safe-haven investment.
Analysts note that softer crude prices, combined with cautious investor sentiment amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties, have contributed to the rally. Spot gold rebounded from recent lows, reflecting renewed buying interest and positive market sentiment.
Overall, the weekly gains highlight gold’s appeal as a hedge against market volatility, with investors closely monitoring energy prices and global economic trends for further movement.
28, Mar 2026
PLI Scheme Boosts Investment in Food Processing Sector
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the food processing industry has attracted investments worth ₹9,207 crore, indicating steady growth and strong industry participation.
Officials stated that the scheme has encouraged companies to expand capacity, adopt modern technology, and improve processing infrastructure. These developments are expected to enhance efficiency and support the sector’s long-term growth.
Pic Credit: Pexel
Industry experts note that the initiative is promoting value addition across key segments such as ready-to-eat products, processed fruits and vegetables, and marine goods. It is also helping strengthen supply chains and improve product standards.
The scheme is further expected to boost exports, create employment opportunities, and increase demand for agricultural produce, benefiting farmers.
Overall, the response to the PLI scheme highlights its role in supporting the growth and competitiveness of India’s food processing industry.
28, Mar 2026
Indriya, Aditya Birla Jewellery, strengthens Bengaluru presence with new store on Sarjapur Road
Bengaluru, Mar 28: Indriya, Aditya Birla Jewellery, continues its expansion in Karnataka with the launch its fifth new store in Bengaluru, located at the bustling Sarjapur Road. This addition marks a significant step in the brand’s strategy to deepen its footprint in one of India’s most dynamic and design-forward markets.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sandeep Kohli, CEO, Indriya, said: “Bengaluru remains a key market for us, given its evolving consumer preferences and strong inclination towards design-led jewellery. Sarjapur Road represents a vibrant and rapidly growing catchment. With this store, we aim to offer a thoughtfully curated experience that brings together craftsmanship, innovation, and contemporary aesthetics, catering to the aspirations of today’s discerning customers.”
27, Mar 2026
VST Tillers Tractors Showcases Advanced Farm Mechanization Solutions at Rashtriya Krishi Uday Expo 2026
Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan Visits Stall
Budni, Madhya Pradesh, Mar 27: VST Tillers Tractors Ltd., a pioneer in farm mechanization in India, an undisputed leader in the power tiller segment and a pioneer in 4WD compact agricultural machinery, showcased its comprehensive range of advanced farm mechanization solutions at Rashtriya Krishi Uday Expo 2026, held at the Central Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institute (CFMTTI), Budni.
VST was privileged to welcome Shri. Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, to its stall at the expo. The interaction provided an opportunity to showcase VST’s innovative mechanization solutions, including its distinctive power tiller and 4WD compact tractor, both designed to deliver affordability and ease of operation for small and marginal farmers. Backed by a legacy of nearly six decades, VST products have consistently supported farmers in addressing complex mechanization needs in a simple, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
VST Tillers Tractors also presented its diverse portfolio of products, designed to meet the evolving needs of Indian farmers across varying landholding sizes. The display highlighted the company’s innovation-driven approach, offering solutions that enhance productivity, reduce labour dependency, and promote sustainable farming practices.
The Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute, Budni (commonly known as FMTTI Budni) plays a critical and foundational role in strengthening farm mechanization in India. It drives inclusive farm mechanization by validating affordable solutions for small and marginal farmers, promoting region-specific technologies, bridging manufacturers with end users, standardizing machinery for quality assurance, and enabling sustainable, efficient agricultural practices. Rashtriya Krishi Uday 2026 Hosted at CFMTTI, Budni is a unique initiative by the Agriculture Ministry, bringing together farmers, agri-tech professionals, manufacturers, policymakers, institutions, and international stakeholders. The event serves as a premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, facilitating knowledge exchange, and enabling high-impact business collaborations within the agricultural sector.
Through its participation at the expo, VST Tillers Tractors reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Indian agriculture through smart mechanization and innovation to enable a more productive, profitable, and future-ready agricultural ecosystem in India.
27, Mar 2026
Nykaa Brings the Ingredient-First Revolution to India with Exclusive Launch of Q+A Skincare
~ UK’s iconic brand joins Nykaa’s global skincare portfolio, offering transparent, hero-ingredient-led solutions for India’s informed beauty consumer~
Mumbai, Mar 27: In today’s beauty landscape, skincare has become more than just a routine, it’s a conscious ritual. Indian consumers are increasingly curious about what goes into their products, seeking out formulations that are transparent, ingredient-led, and designed to deliver real results. From decoding actives like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to building personalised routines, skincare today is as much about knowledge as it is about results.
At the forefront of this shift is Nykaa, India’s leading beauty and lifestyle destination, which continues to shape how consumers discover, learn about, and experience skincare. Expanding its portfolio of globally loved brands, Nykaa now introduces Q+A Skincare exclusively, the fast-growing UK-based brand known for its ingredient-first philosophy and refreshingly straightforward approach to skincare.
Built on the belief that skincare should be simple, transparent and effective, Q+A Skincare has earned a loyal global following for its no-fuss formulations that spotlight hero ingredients directly in the product name. By making actives easy to identify and understand, the brand removes the confusion often associated with complex routines, helping consumers build skincare rituals that are both effective and easy to navigate. The brand’s entry into India reflects a larger evolution underway in the market. Ingredient literacy among Indian consumers has grown dramatically in recent years, fueled by access to information, digital communities, and a deeper interest in skin health. This has created a demand for brands that combine efficacy with transparency, an intersection where Q+A Skincare naturally fits.
Commenting on the launch, Nykaa spokesperson said, “Over the last few years, we’ve seen a clear shift in how Indian consumers approach skincare. The conversation has moved from brand-led discovery to ingredient-led decision making, with consumers actively seeking transparency, efficacy, and education before they purchase. This evolution is shaping the next phase of the beauty industry in India, where informed choices and personalised routines are becoming central to the skincare journey.
At Nykaa, our role has always been to stay ahead of these shifts, whether by educating consumers, building access to global brands, or investing in technology that helps people make better choices for their skin. Q+A Skincare fits perfectly into this new ingredient-first mindset with its simple, transparent and efficacy-led approach. We see this as a brand that can grow meaningfully in India as consumers continue to become more knowledgeable, more experimental, and more invested in understanding their skin.”
“We’re incredibly excited to be partnering with Nykaa to bring Q+A to India – a market that is fast becoming one of the most sophisticated and dynamic in global beauty. What’s been particularly striking to us is the pace at which Indian consumers have embraced ingredient-led skincare. There is a clear shift toward informed decision-making, with customers actively seeking transparency, efficacy, and products that genuinely deliver on their claims – which sits perfectly at the heart of what we’ve built with Q+A. Our mission has always been to simplify skincare without compromising on performance creating high-quality, British-made formulations that are both accessible and easy to understand. We believe this approach resonates strongly with the modern Indian consumer. Nykaa has built an exceptional platform and deep connection with its audience, and we see this as a long-term partnership to grow the brand meaningfully in the region. We’re just at the beginning, and we’re excited about what we can build together,” saysFreddy Furber, Founder & CEO, Q+A / Ellipsis Brands
True to its ethos of simplicity, Q+A Skincare also encourages consumers to better understand their own skin before building routines. Its product ecosystem is designed to address key concerns such as hydration, exfoliation, balance, and barrier support, allowing users to mix and match solutions that suit their individual needs without unnecessary complexity. The formulations are vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and built for everyday use, reflecting the values of a new generation of conscious beauty consumers.
Shop the bestsellers now:
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Hyaluronic Acid Gel Cleanser A gentle gel cleanser that removes impurities while maintaining the skin’s moisture balance, leaving skin refreshed and comfortably hydrated
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Hyaluronic Acid Daily Moisturiser A lightweight everyday moisturiser that delivers lasting hydration and supports soft, smooth and balanced skin
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Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum A hydration-focused serum designed to help boost moisture levels and improve skin suppleness for a plumper, healthier-looking complexion
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Glycolic Acid Daily Toner An exfoliating toner formulated to help refine skin texture and reveal a smoother, brighter-looking complexion with regular use
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Niacinamide Daily Toner A balancing toner designed to help refine the appearance of pores while promoting a more even-looking complexion
Nykaa’s Next Frontier: Personalising Skincare Through Education and AILong before personalised skin diagnostics became a buzzword, Nykaa invested in educating and empowering beauty consumers – creating rich content across expert guides, ingredient explainers, how‑to tutorials and step‑by‑step routine frameworks that turn curiosity into confidence. Through initiatives like Stepification of Beauty, Nykaa simplified what once felt complex, breaking skincare down into easy, actionable routines that helped consumers adopt comprehensive regimens with clarity and purpose.Nykaa has also been investing in technology that helps consumers better understand their skin and make more informed product choices. As part of this vision, the platform recently launchedSkin Scan, an AI-powered diagnostic tool on the Nykaa app that transforms a simple selfie into a personalized skin consultation.
Powered by deep-learning technology trained on over 70,000 medically graded images, Skin Scan evaluates multiple parameters—from hydration levels and texture to pores, dark spots and redness – within seconds. The results appear as a visual map directly on the user’s photograph, offering clear insights into skin health alongside curated product recommendations tailored to individual concerns.
Together, initiatives like Skin Scan and the introduction of ingredient-led brands such as Q+A reflect Nykaa’s larger ambition: to move the skincare conversation beyond product discovery toward data-led, personalised beauty experiences.
Q+A Skincare is now available exclusively on Nykaa.com and the Nykaa app.
27, Mar 2026
IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Colombo, Strengthening India–Sri Lanka Connectivity
Mar 27: IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, has announced the launch of new direct flights connecting Delhi and Colombo. Effective March 29, 2026, the airline will operate six weekly flights on this route using its A320 aircraft, offering enhanced convenience and seamless travel for passengers.
The new route is expected to significantly boost connectivity between India and Sri Lanka, further strengthening longstanding cultural, economic, and tourism ties between the two neighboring nations.
With this addition, IndiGo will now operate over 55 weekly flights to Colombo from five Indian cities—Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Delhi. The airline also connects Chennai and Tiruchirappalli to Jaffna with 10 weekly flights, reinforcing its strong network across Sri Lanka.
This expanded connectivity underscores IndiGo’s commitment to providing affordable, reliable, and hassle-free travel experiences while catering to growing passenger demand for regional and international travel.
Flight Schedule (Effective March 29, 2026):
- Delhi to Colombo (Flight 6E 1169):
Operates on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday
Departure: 18:40 | Arrival: 22:20 - Colombo to Delhi (Flight 6E 1170):
Operates on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday
Departure: 23:20 | Arrival: 02:55 (+1 day)
Passengers can book tickets via IndiGo’s official website, mobile app, or authorised travel partners. The airline also offers a range of add-on services, including pre-booked meals and beverages, preferred seating options, and flexible booking plans such as UpFront and Flexi for enhanced comfort and convenience.
With this new launch, IndiGo continues to expand its international footprint while strengthening regional connectivity and supporting tourism and trade growth across South Asia.
