Category Archives: Business

Faaya Gifting launches Faaya Focus, a curated series on global craftsmanship; debut edition features ceramics & glassware

Mumbai, May 27, 2025 – Faaya Gifting, the luxury home décor and gifting brand known for its seamless blend of global design sensibilities and Indian craftsmanship, has announced the launch of Faaya Focus, a new curated series celebrating handcrafted artistry from around the world.

The inaugural edition of Faaya Focus shines a spotlight on ceramics and glassware, featuring a sophisticated selection of pieces that are both functional and artistic. From elegant tableware to statement décor accents, the collection embodies Faaya’s commitment to elevating spaces with timeless design and artisanal finesse.

Founded by Mumbai-based, globally travelled, visionary designer Falguni Toprani—equal parts businesswoman and creative force—Faaya Gifting blends global design sensibilities with India’s rich artisanal heritage. Faaya has emerged as a trusted name in premium gifting, catering to both personal and corporate clientele. With over two decades of experience in the international export market and collaborations with leading European designers, Falguni brings a deep understanding of global aesthetics paired with India’s rich artisanal legacy.

“Having been in the luxury gifting space, we recognized the need to continually introduce fresh and exclusive products to our discerning clientele,” said Falguni Toprani, Founder of Faaya. “With Faaya Focus, we aim to spotlight exceptional craftsmanship through a carefully curated selection that fits seamlessly into our collection.”

Faaya Focus marks a strategic expansion of Faaya’s legacy in bespoke gifting, celebrating one craft category at a time. Designed in-house and handcrafted by skilled artisans, each piece in the ceramics and glassware collection is a testament to thoughtful design and individuality. The ceramics range features sculptural vases in a variety of silhouettes—some minimalist with matte finishes, others bold with high-gloss or reactive glazes that ensure no two pieces are alike. Highlights include the Azure Collection, known for its deep blue tones and striking white accents, and a terracotta vase with ridged texture that evokes earthy elegance. The glassware line, crafted through a meticulous molding process, includes oversized vases in refined hues—each designed to hold its own as a statement object.

Sundaram Finance Ltd: Audited financial results for the financial year ended 31st March 2025

May 26, 2025: The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the audited standalone and consolidated financial results for the year ended March 31, 2025, at its meeting held on May 26, 2025, in Chennai.

“Team Sundaram has delivered 17% growth in AUM to Rs. 51,476 crores, asset quality with net stage 3 at 0.75% vs 0.63% last year and profits from operations growing 29% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY24 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.

Disbursements for FY25 recorded a growth of 9% over FY24 with 11% growth in disbursements for Q4FY25 over last year. Gross stage 3 assets as on March 31, 2025, stood at 1.44% with provision cover of 49% as against 1.26% as on March 31, 2024, with provision cover of 50%. Profits from operations performed strongly, growing by 29% in FY25. Profit after tax registered a 6% rise in FY25, with net profit at Rs. 1,543 crores. After excluding exceptional item in FY24, profit after tax rose 16% in FY25. Return on assets closed at 2.85% in FY25 as against 3.18% for FY24 and capital adequacy at 20.4% remains quite comfortable.

Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director, stated, “FY25 was marked by subdued demand due to an extreme summer, general elections, a dull festive season and global volatility driven by tariff-related uncertainty as well as geopolitical complications. Customer outlook was, by and large, cautious and the burden of economic growth was largely supported by Government capex, which ended up at levels lower than the previous year. Given the uncertainties in the external demand, our focus on market share has remained clear. We have gained market share across nearly major asset classes that we focus on, resulting in 17% growth in AUM for FY25 and our laser-sharp focus on controlling our costs – borrowing, operating & credit – resulted in a 29% growth in profits from operations.”

“Looking ahead, we expect macroeconomic sentiments to improve on the rural front because of above normal monsoons forecasted by the IMD and strong procurement, and, on the urban front, due to an improvement in government spending on infrastructure as well as the income tax benefits announced in the union budget. As private consumption improves, private sector capex will likely pick up. We are well positioned to continue our marathon running – steady growth, best-in-class asset quality and continued resilient profitability – and in delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, people and partners,” he added.

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR FY25

· Disbursements for FY25 grew by 9% to Rs. 28,405 crores as compared to Rs. 26,163 crores registered in FY24. Disbursements for Q4FY25 grew by 11% to Rs. 6,873 crores as compared to Rs. 6,209 crores registered in Q4FY24.

· The assets under management grew by 17% to Rs. 51,476 crores as on 31st March 2025 as against Rs. 43,987 crores as on 31st March 2024.

· Net interest income grew by 22% to Rs. 2,793 crores in FY25 from Rs. 2,284 crores in FY24.

· Gross stage 3 assets as on 31st March 2025 stood at 1.44% with 49% provision cover as against 1.26% with provision cover of 50% as on 31st March 2024. Net stage 3 assets as on 31st March 2025 closed at 0.75% as against 0.63% as on 31st March 2024.

· The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.17% and 1.38% respectively as against 1.98% and 1.25% as of 31st March 2024.

· Cost to income ratio improved to 30.80% in FY25 as against 34.68% in FY24.

· Profit after tax registered a 6% rise in FY25, with net profit at Rs. 1,543 crores. After excluding exceptional item in FY24, profit after tax rose 16% in FY25.

· Return on assets (ROA) for FY25 closed at 2.85% as against 3.18% for FY24. Return on equity (ROE) was at 16.30% for FY25 as against 17.51% for FY24.

· Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 20.4% (Tier I –17.4%) as of 31st March 2025 compared to 20.5% (Tier I – 16.8%) as of 31st March 2024.

· The Company has declared a final dividend of Rs. 21/- per share (210%).

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR FY25

The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.

· The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 78,145 crores as on 31st March 2025 as against Rs. 66,472 crores as on 31st March 2024, a growth of 18%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 71,826 crores as on 31st March 2025 as against Rs. 70,883 crores as on 31st March 2024.

· Profit after tax for FY25 grew by 31% to Rs. 1,879 crores as compared to Rs. 1,436 crores in FY24.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

· The asset management business closed the year ended 31st March 2025 with assets under management of Rs. 71,826 crores (over 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses were at Rs. 154 crores as against Rs. 112 crores in FY24.

· Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 4,065 crores as compared to Rs. 3,825 crores in the previous year, representing a growth of 6%. The company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 133 crores for FY25 as against a profit of Rs. 169 crores in FY24. Profit after tax during FY25 includes net loss of Rs. 38 crores on Fair Value of Equity investments as against net gain on Fair Value of equity investments of Rs. 71 crores in FY24.

· Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 30% to Rs. 6,517 crores in FY25. The profit for FY25 was Rs. 245 crores, as against Rs. 236 crores in FY24.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954 and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance as well as working capital for SMEs. Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1 lakh depositors and nearly 5 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.

MiQ Appoints Vikas Khanchandani as Strategic Advisor to Accelerate India Commercial Growth

Mumbai, India, May 26, 2025 – MiQ, a global programmatic media partner, announced the appointment of Vikas Khanchandani as Strategic Advisor for India Commercial, as part of its long-term vision for accelerated growth in the region. This move reflects MiQ’s commitment to investing in market-leading talent and solutions that shape the future of digital media.

With over two and half decades of experience across media, advertising, and digital transformation, Vikas brings with him a deep understanding of client needs, agency ecosystems, and cutting-edge technologies. As Strategic Advisor, he will focus on strengthening MiQ’s Partner relationships, scaling Advanced TV capabilities, and lending strategic counsel to unlock the next phase of growth for MiQ India.

“We are delighted to welcome Vikas to the MiQ India leadership journey,” said Varun Mohan, Chief Commercial Officer, MiQ India. “His experience, wisdom, and industry influence align perfectly with our mission to deliver market-leading innovation and value to our clients. Vikas will play a pivotal role in deepening our strategic partnerships and enhancing our Advanced TV and data-driven media solutions.”

Expressing his excitement, Vikas Khanchandani said, “I’m thrilled to be part of MiQ at such an exciting inflection point. MiQ’s commitment to innovation, client-centricity, and future-ready media solutions truly stands out in today’s landscape. I look forward to contributing to its momentum—helping build stronger partnerships, unlocking new growth avenues, and shaping the evolution of data-driven advertising in India.”

Vikas’ appointment underscores MiQ’s intent to build a forward-looking, high-impact commercial strategy for India—powered by leadership, technology, and trusted partnerships.

Wonder Electricals Ltd. announces the audited financial results for Q4 & FY25

Delhi, 26^th May 2025: Wonder Electricals Limited, one of India’s leading fans and appliances manufacturer, with a history of over two decades, announced its audited financial results for the quarter and full year ended March 31^st, 2025.

Key Consolidated Financials:

Performance Highlights for the full year ended March 31st, 2025:

• Revenue from Operations for the quarter was Rs. 312.03 Crores in Q4 FY25, registering an increase of 20.3% YoY led by higher sales volume of ceiling, TPW, exhaust and farrata fans.
• EBITDA was at Rs. 17.49 Crores in Q4 FY25, registering a YoY increase of 28.3%, EBITDA Margins grew by 34 bps to 5.60% led by growth is mainly on account of higher contribution from the sales of value-added product.
• PAT was Rs. 9.19 Crores in Q4 FY25 compared to Rs. 6.53 crore in Q4 FY24, while PAT Margin stood at 40.6%,

Performance Highlights for the full year ended March 31st, 2025:

• Revenue from Operations for the financial year was Rs. 894.50 Crores, an increase of 56.9% YoY led by higher sales of ceiling, TPW, exhaust and farrata fans.
• EBITDA was at Rs. 24.63 crore in FY25, YoY increase of 57.4%. EBITDA Margin was at 4.33% in FY25.
• PAT was Rs. 16.58 crore in FY25 compared to Rs. 10.16 crore in FY24, up by 63.2% compared to the same period last year while PAT Margin stood at 1.85%, higher by 7 bps on YoY basis.

Recent Developments during the quarter:

• Company approved final dividend of Rs. 0.10/- per share for the financial year ended 31st March 2025

Management Comment:

 Commenting on the performance, Mr. Yogesh Sahni, Promoter & Managing Director of Wonder Electricals Ltd. said: “We are pleased to report a strong performance for the financial year ended March 31, 2025. FY25 has been a landmark year for Wonder Electricals Limited, marked by robust revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and strengthened financial metrics.

The Company achieved a 57% year-on-year increase in Revenue, reaching ₹894.5 Crores, driven by sustained sales momentum and higher volumes across key markets. This growth reflects the continued trust of our customers and the effectiveness of our on- ground execution and channel engagement strategies.

We have also made significant strides in operational efficiency. Our working inventory days improved from 40 days in FY24 to 25 days in FY25, highlighting the consistently strong demand environment and our ability to efficiently manage supply chain and distribution dynamics.

On the profitability front, we are pleased to report an improvement in our return ratios. Return on Equity (ROE) increased from 11.56% in FY24 to 16.5% in FY25, while Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) rose from 12.4% to 16.3%, reflecting better capital allocation and stronger earnings growth.

In recognition of the Company’s performance, the Board of Directors has recommended a final dividend of ₹0.10 per share for FY25.

We extend our sincere gratitude to our employees, partners, and stakeholders for their continued support and look forward to building on this positive momentum in the coming year”

Company Overview 

Founded in 2003, Wonder Electricals Ltd. is a leading fan manufacturer and OEM/ODM in India, recognized as one of the largest fan producers in the country. With a production capacity of 40,000 fans per day, we are dedicated to leveraging advanced technology to enhance both our products and manufacturing processes. Guided by an experienced management team and supported by a reliable network of vendors, we have consistently achieved strong growth since our inception. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our critical ISO certifications and compliance with stringent quality management standards.

Wonder Electricals operates three state-of-the-art fan manufacturing units and two captive component facilities, offering fully integrated manufacturing solutions. We proudly serve over 15 major Indian brands, positioning us for continued expansion and success in the global market.

From Kala Ghoda to Pan-India: Kumari Jewels Accelerates Growth. Targets 35 Stores in Three Years

Mumbai, April 26, 2025: In just six months since its Diwali 2024 debut, Kumari Jewels, a modern extension of the storied DP Jewellers, has transformed from a single store in Kala Ghoda to a vibrant presence in Mumbai, with its second outlet opening on the upscale Turner Road, Bandra. Fueled by a vision to capture the style-driven aspirations of India’s under-35 demographic, over 70% of the nation’s population, the brand is now accelerating its growth, targeting five to six stores in Mumbai by December 2025 and 30 to 35 stores across India’s major metros within three years. With a focus on Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR, and Mumbai, followed by Pune, Ahmedabad, Baroda, Chandigarh, and Jaipur, Kumari Jewels is poised to reshape the country’s organised jewellery market.

“Kumari is not just a new brand—it’s a new blueprint for what jewellery retail in India can look like,” said Amit Bandi, CEO of Kumari Fine Jewellery. “We’re building a model that’s agile, data-led, and deeply attuned to how young India shops today—style-first, digitally connected, and experience-driven. With the momentum we’ve seen, our target of 35 stores in three years is not just ambitious, it’s inevitable.”

Unlike the mass-merchandise model of its parent company, DP Jewellers (DP Abhushan LTD.), with 11 stores across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh since 1940, Kumari Jewels targets a gap in the market left unaddressed. “Our vision was to evolve from the traditional mass-merchandise model of approach of DP Jewellers into a modern retail experience that speaks to today’s youth,” said Vikas Kataria, Co-Founder of Kumari Fine Jewellery. “The jewellery market in India is ready for disruption,and Kumari Jewels addresses a vital need offering accessible, style-led designs that enable self-expression while staying true to our heritage of craftsmanship.”

Their lightweight, customizable collections, starting at INR 10,000 and reaching up to INR 1.5 lakh, offer affordable luxury for everyday wear. This style-led approach has driven remarkable traction: the brand has logged a consistent 20% month-on-month revenue growth, doubled monthly sales, and recorded 300,000 digital engagements, up from 25,000 in November 2024. This growth highlights Kumari Jewels’ resonance with young professionals and women seeking versatile jewellery for dynamic lifestyles.

“As a veteran in the jewellery industry, I’ve seen the power of tradition, but Kumari Jewels is about breaking boundaries,” said Yash Kataria, Co-Founder of Kumari Fine Jewellery. “Our style-led approach brings international trends to India at prices that make luxury inclusive, starting at INR 10,000. We’re crafting a brand that’s aspirational yet attainable, and I’m excited to lead this journey to make Kumari a household name across India and beyond.”

The brand’s omnichannel strategy has been a cornerstone of its success, seamlessly blending physical retail with digital outreach. Performance marketing and social media campaigns have fueled exponential online growth, while the Kala Ghoda store’s early experiments refined its consumer approach. Internationally, the brand is eyeing pop-up stores in London and the UAE by December 2025, a move that underscores its global ambitions.

“Our designs are inspired by global fashion, blending contemporary aesthetics with India’s rich heritage,” said Supriya Kataria, Creative Director of Kumari Fine Jewellery. “We’re bringing in sleek, versatile pieces that resonate with the modern Indian woman—featuring minimalist forms and bold accents seen on runways in Paris and Milan, yet staying rooted in Indian cultural identity.”

By scaling to 30–35 stores across major metros within three years and exploring global pop-ups, Kumari Jewels is not only redefining affordable luxury but also setting a new benchmark for style-driven innovation. As India’s organised jewellery sector continues its robust growth, Kumari Jewels is poised to lead, delivering vibrant, accessible glamour to a generation ready to embrace it.

Government of Andhra Pradesh Partners with Paripatram to Advance Circular Economy Initiatives

Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, 26th May 2025 – The Government of Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), hosted a two-day Circular Economy Workshop on May 22–23, 2025, at Hotel Fortune Murali Park, Vijayawada.

The workshop brought together over 200+ key stakeholders from central and state government departments, industry, recycling networks, urban local bodies, and the informal sector to build a shared understanding of circular economy pathways tailored to Andhra Pradesh.

Organized under the theme “Adopting the Circular Economy Concept in Andhra Pradesh,” the workshop aimed to promote integrated thinking across regulatory, operational, and business dimensions of resource recovery. Paripatram Solutions served as the Knowledge Partner, playing a pivotal role in curating technical content and facilitating cross-sectoral collaboration.

The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Sri G. Anantha Ramu, Special Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest, Science & Technology Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was joined by Dr. P. Krishnaiah, Chairman, APPCB; Sri Komma Reddy Pattabi Ram, Swachh Andhra Corporation; Shri Polamreddy Dinesh Reddy, APEMCL; Sri B.S.S. Prasad, Chairman, SEIAA, AP; Smt. H.D. Varalaxmi, Regional Director, CPCB – Southern Zone; and other key dignitaries including Shri Sanjay Mehta, President, MRAI; Shri Gautam Mehra, Director, Paripatram; and Sri Saravanan, Member Secretary, APPCB.

The workshop focused on rethinking waste not as a burden, but as a resource. Discussions centred around practical strategies to implement circular economy principles and develop frameworks across major waste streams. Participants engaged in interactive sessions covering urban waste, industrial and hazardous waste, e-waste and batteries, end-of-life vehicles, construction and demolition (C&D) waste, and circular materials recovery.

Key themes included strengthening source segregation in cities, expanding decentralized composting and material recovery facilities, and integrating informal waste workers into structured livelihoods. For industrial and hazardous waste, calls were made to improve tracking mechanisms, enable safe co-processing in cement kilns, and promote cleaner production practices.

In the realm of e-waste and battery management, participants highlighted the need to build robust collection ecosystems, expand formal dismantling capacity, and address the emerging challenge of managing end-of-life solar panels. Sessions on automotive and C&D waste explored the potential of recycling markets for scrap metal, tyres, rubber, and gypsum, and the development of digital systems to track material flows.

A recurring message across all sessions was the need for institutional coordination, digital traceability, and market development for secondary materials. Participants also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and aligned policy frameworks to scale up circular economy practices.

The workshop reaffirmed Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to embedding circularity into its developmental strategy. It embraced the P4 model as espoused by Hon’ble Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, positioning the People as key stakeholders in building a state-wide circular economy partnership.

The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board was commended for its leadership in driving this multi-stakeholder initiative, while Paripatram Solutions was acknowledged for its technical expertise and facilitation support as the Knowledge Partner.

As Andhra Pradesh moves towards a sustainable and resource-efficient future, this workshop marks a significant milestone in aligning policies, people, and practices toward a circular, zero-waste, circular economy model.

NRIs Reshape Indian Real Estate: Investment Share Soars to 20% in 2025

India’s real estate sector is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by Non-Resident Indian (NRI) investors whose participation in property purchases has surged from 7–10% in 2015–2018 to an estimated 18–20% in 2025. This upward trend underscores the growing confidence NRIs have in India’s real estate market as a stable and lucrative investment avenue.

According to insights from Wisdom Hatch, NRIs are increasingly viewing Indian real estate, particularly in the luxury segment, as a strategic asset for long-term wealth preservation. This shift is influenced by factors such as emotional ties to the homeland, favorable currency exchange rates, and enhanced transparency in the property market.

The GRI Club reports that India’s residential real estate sector is poised for its third consecutive year of record-breaking sales, with transactions expected to surpass ₹5.1 trillion across the top seven cities in 2024. NRIs contribute significantly to this growth, accounting for 15–25% of investments in premium projects across major urban centers.

In Gurugram, areas like Dwarka Expressway and Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) have emerged as hotspots for NRI investments. Dwarka Expressway has witnessed a 79% increase in property prices over the past five years, driven by infrastructure developments and improved connectivity. Similarly, SPR has seen property values more than double, with a 125% surge in prices over the same period, positioning it as a burgeoning business and residential hub.

Mr. Devender Aggarwal, Co-Founder and Joint Managing Director of Signature Global says, “Over the past decade, we have witnessed a transformational shift in the Indian real estate landscape, with NRI participation evolving from a marginal share to a commanding presence. The surge from 7–10% in 2015–18 to nearly 20% today isn’t just a statistic — it’s a reflection of growing global confidence in India’s economic resilience, regulatory transparency, and real estate potential. Several factors have catalyzed this trend: enhanced infrastructure, better global connectivity, stable policy environment under RERA, and most importantly, the emotional and financial pull of investing in a rapidly developing India.

At Signature Global, we are seeing a marked uptick in interest from NRIs — particularly for premium and well-located properties that offer both capital appreciation and rental yield. With the rise of India as a global economic powerhouse, NRIs view real estate here as a gateway to secure long-term wealth while also staying connected to their roots. This rising trend isn’t just boosting demand — it’s also raising the bar for quality, transparency, and delivery timelines across the sector.”

This Sunscreen Day, Let’s Bust a Myth: SPF Isn’t Just for Summers

Mumbai: 26th May marks Sunscreen Day, a global reminder that sunscreen is not just a summer essential—it’s a year-round commitment to your skin’s health. While many associate SPF with sunny beach days, the truth is: UV rays don’t disappear with clouds or rain.

That’s why this Sunscreen Day, The Body Shop is championing everyday, all-weather sun protection with one of our most loved Skincare essentials — because skin is under constant attack from sun, blue light, and pollution.

● To help combat these daily stressors, The Body Shop’s Skin Defence multi-protection, light essence SPF 50 PA+++, a lightweight, non-greasy formula, hydrates while offering powerful protection. It’s your skin’s first line of defence — and an everyday essential you won’t want to leave home without.What does it do for you? SPF 50 PA+++ broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays

● Weightless, fast-absorbing formula – absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast

● Infused with Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate without heaviness or stickiness

● Protects against pollution and blue light exposure

● Non-comedogenic, non-sticky and suitable for sensitive skin

● Invisible finish that wears well under makeup

This Sunscreen Day, make the switch from seasonal use to 365 days of SPF.
Because your skin deserves nothing less.

Bengaluru leads GCC fresher hiring for both short and long term, with 17% expecting a 50% surge in 2025 – states NLB Services

The workforce landscape is evolving, with companies increasingly considering freshers as a critical talent pool to drive future growth. As businesses invest in entry-level talent to build a skilled and agile workforce, fresher hiring in the IT sector has gained strong momentum. Compared to last year, hiring has seen a 4% year-on-year increase in 2025 so far. Among sectors, IT – Hardware and Software has led the way, nearly doubling its share from 17% in 2024 to 34% in 2025, followed by FMCG (16%), Insurance (15%), and Pharma (11%) This surge reflects a growing shift towards skill-based hiring, with employers prioritizing candidates with hands-on experience and skills specific to the industry. The most in-demand roles for freshers in IT include Software Developers, Data Analysts, Cloud Support Associates, Cybersecurity Analysts, and DevOps Engineers. Freshers entering the IT sector can expect salary packages ranging from 3.5 lakh to ₹8 lakh per annum, based on their skill set and role. For instance, Software Developers typically earn between ₹2.8 lakh to ₹8.2 lakh per annum. Web Developers’ salaries range from ₹2 lakh to ₹8 lakh per annum for freshers. Additionally, cities like Bengaluru offer higher salaries, with junior roles paying approximately 23% above the national average.

Beyond metro cities, Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging and creating new opportunities for freshers in IT as well as Non-IT sectors. For instance, cities like Mysuru, Gandhinagar, Visakhapatnam, Indore, Lucknow, Kochi, Jaipur, and Vijayawada are witnessing remarkable growth, driven by a strong talent pool choosing to stay local rather than relocating to expensive, established tech centers. From a technology talent perspective, this shift is positioning smaller cities as key players in India’s tech-driven future. For instance, Coimbatore, Indore, Udaipur, Bhubaneshwar, Jaipur and Chandigarh are evolving into IT hubs, with fresher salaries ranging from ₹3.5 lakh to ₹6 lakh per annum, slightly higher than those in metro cities. Additionally, cities like Nashik, Salem, and Vadodara are gaining prominence as preferred locations for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), further solidifying their role in India’s expanding tech landscape.

In the Indian GCCs ecosystem, firms are continuing their growth trajectory and fresh hiring trends are evolving, with a strong focus on young talent and diversity. According to “India’s Talent Takeoff-The GCC 4.0 story” report, 64% of GCCs anticipate a 1–20% increase in fresher hiring, ensuring a strategic expansion aligned with business needs in 2025. Meanwhile, 9% anticipate a surge of over 50%, signaling a future where freshers play a pivotal role in driving GCC innovation and growth. Among cities, Bengaluru stands out with the highest optimism for fresher hiring—17% of companies project an increase of more than 50%, indicating a more aggressive hiring approach compared to other cities in 2025.

As GCCs expand globally, with digital transformation and automation at the forefront, the demand for young talent is set to rise sharply in the coming years. By CY2030, 42% expect fresher hiring to surge by over 50%, underscoring a long-term commitment to building future-ready workforces and equipping young professionals with the skills needed for next-gen innovation. Among cities, Bengaluru leads the hiring momentum in the long term as well, with 49% projecting a 50%+ increase in fresher intake by CY2030, highlighting strong long-term optimism for talent growth.

Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services, commented, “India Inc.’s focus on entry-level talent is a response to evolving industry demands, driven by advancements in automation, cybersecurity, and cloud transformation. Companies are not just hiring freshers to fill roles but strategically investing in them to build a future-ready workforce. The hiring momentum among Global Capability Centers (GCCs) reflects this shift, with fresh talent playing a pivotal role in driving innovation in digital security, intelligent automation, and scalable cloud solutions. Additionally, with an increasing number of women freshers entering critical roles in areas like Information Technology (IT), banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI), manufacturing, and healthcare services, the gender gap at the entry level is narrowing, with a ratio of 47:53 (men: women), significantly better than the 95:5 (men: women).

Radisson Hotel Group expands footprint in East India with signings in Deoghar, Puri and Ranchi

Radisson Hotel Group continues its ambitious growth and development plan in India with the signing of a strategic three-hotel deal, Radisson Blu Hotel Deoghar, Jharkhand, Radisson RED Puri, Odisha, and Radisson Resort & Spa, Ranchi, Jharkhand, marking a significant step in the Group’s East India expansion strategy. With a combined key count of 400 across the three locations, this partnership reinforces the Group’s commitment to offering unique experiences tailored to local demands and driving growth in East India. Each hotel under the deal is structured to leverage unique regional market dynamics, ensuring synergy across the portfolio.

In Deoghar, Jharkhand, the Group is set to open the city’s first internationally branded upper upscale hotel under the Radisson Blu brand. As a spiritual and medical tourism hub with increasing demand for quality accommodation, Deoghar is strategically positioned near Bihar and is rapidly emerging as a preferred destination for large-scale weddings and MICE events. Located close to Deoghar Airport and AIIMS, the hotel will cater to pilgrims, wellness travelers, offering scenic views of the Tapovan Hills and Trikuta Hills.

Puri, Odisha, welcomes the Group’s first core-branded property in the state with the debut of Radisson RED Puri. Situated near the golden sands of Puri Beach along New Marine Drive Road, the hotel blends RED’s bold design language with curated F&B and wellness offerings. Positioned to serve both modern leisure seekers and spiritual tourists, the hotel is expected to be a sought-after destination during landmark events such as the annual Ratha Yatra at the Shree Jagannath Temple. Its proximity to Bhubaneswar further enhances its appeal for destination weddings.

The third property in the portfolio is Radisson Resort & Spa in Ranchi, Jharkhand’s capital. Located along the Ranchi-Jamshedpur highway, the resort will be surrounded by lush greenery, offering a premium setting for MICE events, weddings and leisure getaways. Ranchi continues to thrive as an administrative and economic hub, and this signing further strengthens the Group’s presence in the state —marking its fifth hotel in Jharkhand and second in Ranchi.

“With the growing momentum of spiritual, cultural, and medical tourism in India, Radisson Hotel Group is focused on staying ahead of the curve by offering world-class luxury and upscale hospitality across cities. With over 13 (five operational, eight in pipeline) properties in East India, this three-hotel signing deal is a strong testament to our commitment to expanding in high-potential markets across the country. With strategic locations and tailored brand offerings, these hotels will further reinforce our presence in East India while delivering an exceptional experience to the guests,” said Nikhil Sharma, MD & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Deoghar is designed with curated F&B concepts tailored to the region’s palette and expansive M&E spaces to target the large-scale weddings and MICE market. As the first internationally branded hotel in the market, it will fill the gap for an upper-upscale branded property, building strong brand equity and long-term visibility. Radisson RED Puri features 105 well-appointed rooms, curated F&B concepts and lifestyle-focused elements aligned with RED’s design philosophy. The hotel will be divided into two sections: A beachfront area with low-rise rooms, a swimming pool, and one F&B outlet, and a block-structure housing rooms, a rooftop bar with ocean views, meeting spaces and wellness facilities. This will be the city’s first upscale lifestyle hotel, setting it apart from existing and upcoming branded developments. Set on an eight-acre land, Radisson Resort & Spa Ranchi will feature 175 well-appointed rooms and extensive meeting and banquet facilities, targeting the growing weddings and social MICE market, addressing the market gap for upscale resorts.

“This signing reflects our continued focus on unlocking value in high-potential micro-markets that are witnessing strong demand across spiritual, leisure and business travel segments. Deoghar, Puri and Ranchi each present a distinct opportunity — from being deeply rooted in religious & leisure tourism circuits to evolving into emerging economic and wellness hubs. Through a brand-right approach by offering three distinctive brands, Radisson, Radisson Blu & Radisson RED, and trusted local partnerships, we aim to build a diverse and future-ready portfolio that meets the needs of today’s discerning travelers while accelerating our growth in East India,” said Davashish Srivastava, Senior Director, Development South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

“Partnering with Radisson Hotel Group aligns with our vision to bring high-quality hospitality experiences to emerging destinations. With Radisson’s operational excellence and strong brand equity, we’re confident this collaboration will elevate the hospitality landscape in Jharkhand and Odisha while offering travelers world-class comfort rooted in local context,” said owners — Sanjay Kumar Sharda director, Sharda Devcon Private Limited.

Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 200 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in metros like Delhi NCR, while over 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and tier-3 markets. RHG has successfully introduced various brands to the growing Indian market, including Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats.