Category Archives: Business

African Development Bank Group awards $16.6 million grant to International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to scale agricultural technologies in Africa

African Development Bank Group awards $16.6 million grant to International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to scale agricultural technologies in AfricaThe agreement, signed on 18 February 2026 in Abuja, bolsters a shared commitment to modernise African agriculture by scaling proven technologies, strengthening seed systems, and expanding partnerships

ABUJA, Nigeria, Feb 27– The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) have signed a $16.61 million grant agreement to launch the third phase of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation Program (TAAT-III), aimed at scaling climate-resilient food production across the continent.

The agreement, signed on 18 February 2026 in Abuja, bolsters a shared commitment to modernise African agriculture by scaling proven technologies, strengthening seed systems, and expanding partnerships among research institutions, governments, and private sector actors.

Since its launch in 2018, TAAT has become one of Africa’s most effective and transformative platforms for agricultural innovation, reaching nearly 25 million farmers and boosting productivity across major staples. The initiative has expanded climate-resilient agricultural practices across over 35 million hectares.

Working closely with the Consultative Group of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR) and national and regional partners, TAAT has increased crop yields as much as 69 percent and generated more than $4 billion in additional agricultural value. Countries including Sudan, Ethiopia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria have recorded notable gains in staple crop productivity and resilience to climate shocks.

Nigeria has been a key beneficiary of TAAT initiatives. Under its Wheat Compact, farmers adopting improved heat-tolerant varieties more than doubled yields from 1.7 tons per hectare to 3.5 tons per hectare. Programme‑supported seed system assessments also helped inform national reforms to expand access to certified, climate-resilient seeds.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Abdul Kamara, Director General of the Bank Group’s Nigeria Country Department, said the new phase will focus on scaling innovation more rapidly: “TAAT-III underscores the Bank’s commitment to ensuring that proven, climate-resilient agricultural technologies reach farmers faster and at scale. This phase strengthens the systems that deliver innovation, helping countries boost productivity, enhance resilience, and align agricultural transformation efforts with the Bank’s four new areas of emphasis, dubbed the Four Cardinal Points.”

Financed through the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional lending window, TAAT-III will consolidate earlier gains while introducing a more sustainable, private sector-driven delivery model. The initiative aims to reinforce seed and technology distribution systems, deepen partnerships with governments and agribusinesses, and expand the digital tools, including its technology e-catalogues and real-time monitoring platforms, to speed up deployment of high‑impact solutions.

Simeon Ehui, Director General of IITA, remarked: “TAAT-III allows us to deepen the delivery of science‑based solutions that improve farmers’ yields and livelihoods. Working with the Bank and our partners, we are scaling technologies that make Africa’s food systems more resilient and competitive.”

TAAT featured prominently in supporting the Bank Group’s Africa Emergency Food Production Facility, helping countries to rapidly deploy improved seeds and technologies to stabilise food supplies during recent global disruptions. The programme’s third phase seeks to embed these innovations within long-term national agricultural investment strategies.

TAAT-III is expected to reach an additional 14 million farmers across 37 low-income and vulnerable countries served by the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional financing window.

By TravClan: Travel Report – Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities Emerge as the Primary Drivers of India’s Outbound Travel in 2025

New Delhi, Feb 27:TravClan has released the India Outbound Travel Index 2025, a comprehensive analysis of outbound travel patterns based on real booking behaviour across its nationwide travel agent network. The report analyses data from approximately 2,47,000 international passengers, representing over ₹500 crore in booking value across 170+ international destinations, and identifies five structural shifts shaping how Indians travel abroad.

A defining insight from the Index shows that non-metro cities now contribute 63% of India’s outbound travellers, positioning non-metro India as the largest source of international travel demand. This reflects a fundamental shift in market composition, with outbound growth increasingly anchored in emerging cities alongside traditional metro hubs.

Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Kochi, Amritsar, and Pune are now among India’s fastest-growing outbound markets, driven by rising incomes and expanding regional connectivity. This momentum reflects sustained demand formation, supported by rising income levels, expanding passport access, and improving regional air connectivity.

Commenting on the findings, Arun Bagaria, Founder and CEO, TravClan, said, “The center of gravity for India’s outbound travel has shifted. Travel Businesses cannot build strategies just around Delhi and Mumbai anymore as we see consistent growth from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, driven by travellers who are digitally confident and decisive. Airlines, destinations, and travel brands need to embrace the next phase of outbound growth that will be built around these emerging markets.”

Destination preferences are also evolving. Indian travellers are increasingly selecting markets that combine strong air access, competitive pricing, and diverse experiences. Vietnam has emerged as the fastest-growing destination, gaining 4.01 percentage points in market share, alongside strong hotel booking growth in Egypt, Japan, the Philippines, and Georgia.

Travel planning cycles continue to compress. Over 42% of outbound trips are booked within seven days of departure, while 21.9% are planned over a month in advance, reflecting high digital confidence and predictable, price-responsive behaviour, particularly on short-haul and high-frequency routes.

Affordable air connectivity remains central to outbound expansion. Low-cost carriers account for nearly 70% of bookings on key leisure routes such as the Maldives and Thailand. At the same time, travellers are extending average stays across several destinations, signalling deeper engagement and experience-led travel.

The India Outbound Travel Index 2025 shows that the next phase of outbound growth will be shaped by localised source markets, faster booking cycles, and differentiated travel intent. For industry stakeholders, long-term relevance will depend on how effectively strategies align with these structural shifts.

Padel 360 announces its first indoor Padel league in Mumbai with a prize pool of INR 5.5 Lakhs

Mumbai, Feb 27: Mumbai is all set to level up as Padel 360, the city’s first fully indoor, air-conditioned premium padel and pickleball facility, launches the inaugural Padel 360 League from 27th February to 1st March 2026 at its Worli venue. In association with Bayside Sports, the league promises three days of fast-paced rallies, strategic team play, and high-intensity competitive action.

Built around a dynamic ownership-led format, the Padel 360 League will showcase six competitive teams, each assembled through a high-stakes auction featuring elite Icon Players. The tournament will follow a Round Robin + Knockout format, with over 60 matches packed into one electrifying weekend.

The league features a strong mix of national and competitive circuit players, including Aryan Goveas, Adil Kalyanpur, Rahul Motwani, and Krishiv Patel, among others, adding depth, experience, and intensity to the competition. Bringing together entrepreneurial leadership and sporting talent, the six teams promise a compelling on-court lineup. The Emgee Strikers will be spearheaded by Vikram Shah, while the Hebbar Vedanta Warriors feature Aryan Goveas at the forefront. Chaitanya Shah anchors the AICL Aces, as Krishiv headlines the Nuke Knockouts. Rahul Motwani joins the Foo Falcons, and Adil Kalyanpur leads the Bandeja Brigade, creating a balanced and dynamic roster across the league.

Beyond the on-court matchups, the league introduces a professionally structured sporting experience, featuring official team jersey reveals, live match streaming, match recordings, detailed performance analytics, and player insights, alongside curated food and beverage experiences and strong on-ground branding, blending competitive intensity with elevated presentation.

With a total prize pool of INR 5.5 lakhs, along with additional prizes, the Padel 360 League aims to establish itself as a premium city-level sporting property that brings together players, owners, partners, and spectators under one roof.

Set against the backdrop of Padel 360’s world-class indoor courts and vibrant sporting community, the league marks an important milestone in Mumbai’s rapidly growing padel movement.

World Food Programme Executive Director Cindy McCain Announces Plans to Step Down to Focus on Her Health

Rome, Italy | Feb 27– Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), informed her global teams and the organization’s Executive Board, that she is planning to step down from her role in three months’ time to focus on her health.

 Executive Director McCain, who suffered a mild stroke in October 2025, returned in early January to the organization’s headquarters in Rome, Italy to resume her duties. She wasted no time assuming the many responsibilities of leading the world’s frontline agency tackling a multitude of hunger crises across the globe, but found the demands of the job were outpacing her recovery.

 “With a heavy heart, I am announcing my intention to step down as the Executive Director of the World Food Programme,” said McCain. “Serving this incredible organization has been the honor of a lifetime.

 “I’ve seen firsthand WFP’s ability to save lives in the most dangerous, destitute, and remote locations of the world, where people need us the most. Time and time again, I have seen the WFP team show up where no one else can, no matter the odds. I had truly hoped I could finish out my term, but my health has not recovered to a level that allows me to fully serve the enormous demands of this job. This is one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make. 

 “Over the past three years, we have delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance for millions of the world’s most vulnerable people – and this unwavering commitment will be more important than ever in the years to come. To our donors, partners and our global WFP team: thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. I will remain WFP’s biggest champion and continue to be an unwavering voice for those struggling with hunger everywhere.”

 Executive Director McCain assumed the role of WFP Executive Director on April 5, 2023. During her tenure she has driven several unprecedented changes to reform and scale the organization’s abilities including overhauling its global structure, streamlining its operations and processes, scaling innovative digital technologies, and diversifying its public and private partnership efforts. 

The House of Abhinandan Lodha signs Kartik Aaryan as Brand Ambassador for ‘Nagpur Marina’

Mumbai, Feb 27: The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), India’s largest branded land developer, announced Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan as the face of HoABL Nagpur Marina, its marquee waterfront plotted development in Nagpur.

Kartik Aaryan’s relationship with HoABL began as an investor, with his purchase of a 2000 sq ft plot at the Sol-de-Alibaug project. This trust-led relationship has now naturally evolved into Kartik endorsing Nagpur Marina based on his conviction in HoABL’s transparency in processes, proven track-record in quality and timelines, consumer-centricity, and long-term vision.

“I am excited to be associated with HoABL as the brand ambassador for its prestigious project – Nagpur Marina. Land is the most enduring form of legacy, and HoABL approaches it with transparency and convenience. What drew me to the brand was its clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and a seamless digital experience, especially for someone like me who is constantly on the move”, said Kartik Aaryan.

Nagpur Marina is an exclusive waterfront plotted development in South Nagpur, envisioned as an international lifestyle enclave. Spanning a 78-acre branded land development, the project is anchored by a 2.91-acre man-made sea and beach at its core, complimented by a 28,000 sq.ft. Grand Marina Clubhouse and thoughtfully curated range of lifestyle amenities.

Designed as a limited, destination-grade address for long-horizon investors, Nagpur Marina’s scale, scarcity, and legacy value have already attracted strong HNI participation, with over 350 families from more than 10 countries investing in the project.

Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha said, “Kartik’s association with us began as an investment decision, which is the strongest vote of confidence any brand can earn. His decision to now be the face of Nagpur Marina reflects the values we focus on every day – trust, transparency, and building assets designed to endure. Waterfront-led and thoughtfully planned, Nagpur Marina is a unique address, and we are excited to have Kartik represent that story.”

Strategically located next to the Samruddhi Expressway and the New Nagpur IBFC, Nagpur Marina offers a rare opportunity to own plotted land in Nagpur, designed for discerning, long-term investors.

Sintex Unveils New TVC Highlighting a 50-Year Warranty to Foster Generational Trust

Feb 26: Sintex, part of Welspun World and India’s leading and trusted manufacturer of quality water storage solutions, has partnered with Sideways to unveil a new television campaign announcing the launch of Sintex Eterno, an industry-first water storage tank with a 50-year warranty. The film will be aired on CTV (connected TV) during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The 20 seconds TVC showcases the legacy brand’s latest flagship offering, built around the brand promise, “Sintex Sabse Safe Hamesha.” As Sintex celebrates 50 years, the brand commemorates this milestone with a 50-year warranty promise that reflects longevity and generational trust.

 Designed to endure across decades, Sintex Eterno symbolises a philosophy of long-term thinking and the brand’s enduring commitment to safety, hygiene, durability and trust across generations. Known for redefining standards in the water management category through continuous innovation, Sintex brings a bold and refreshing perspective to category communication with this film.

The campaign was developed in collaboration with Sideways. With a 50-year warranty at the heart of the proposition, the creative agency chose to interpret longevity through a generational lens rather than focusing solely on product features – delivering the message through a witty and engaging storyline. Set inside a retail store, the 20-second TVC captures a light-hearted yet impactful moment where the shopkeeper unexpectedly addresses an 8-year-old kid as the primary customer instead of the father. The narrative gradually reveals the logic behind this quirky interaction, a water tank backed by a 50-year warranty is not merely a purchase for today, but a long-term buying decision that also safeguards the next generation. The film cleverly emphasizes Sintex’s decades-long legacy of durability, reliability and generational trust.

With its sharp and unconventional storytelling, the campaign moves beyond traditional product advertising to spark a larger conversation around long-term value and future-ready investments. By combining the tangible assurance of a 50-year warranty with an emotionally resonant narrative rooted in family decision-making, the campaign positions Sintex Eterno as more than just a water tank it is a hygienic, safe and future-proof solution designed to outlast expectations. In many ways, the 50-year warranty becomes symbolic, reflecting a brand that has itself earned trust for nearly 50 years and continues to build for the next 50.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Yashovardhan Agarwal, Director, Sintex and Managing Director, Welspun BAPL said,

“At Sintex, we believe true innovation lies in building solutions that are not only reliable today but also resilient for decades to come. With Sintex Eterno’s industry-leading 50-year warranty, we are setting a new benchmark in the water storage category and reinforcing our long-standing commitment to safety, hygiene and durability.  As we celebrate 50 years of serving Indian households, it was only fitting to introduce a product that carries forward that same longevity in its promise. The 50-year warranty isn’t just a feature it’s a promise that neither you nor your children will ever have to worry about your water tank. A reflection of the trust Sintex has built over decades, and our commitment to safeguarding generations to come. A water tank is a long-term infrastructure decision for any household, and its impact extends far beyond the present generation. Through this campaign, we wanted to move beyond functional communication and highlight a powerful insight that when you choose a product built to last, you are safeguarding your family’s future as well. This film reflects Sintex’s legacy of trust across Indian homes and our promise of ‘Sabse Safe hamesha.’

Abhijit Avasthi, Founder, Sideways, said:

 “When a product carries a 50-year warranty, the story must carry the same horizon. Our approach was to interpret longevity not as a statistic, but as a promise that spans generations. The campaign presents Eterno as an enduring presence in homes, one that reflects stability, foresight and responsibility. It positions Sintex as a brand thinking not just about today’s need, but the legacy it leaves behind.”

Africa, Venezuela Advance Practical Trade and Investment Cooperation

Venezuela Advance Practical Trade and Investment CooperationThe African Energy Chamber’s delegation to Caracas advanced cooperation with Venezuelan authorities on expanding trade beyond energy, addressing regulatory bottlenecks and promoting reciprocal investment across the Global South

CARACAS, Venezuela, Feb 26:A high-level working visit to Caracas by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) this February marked a significant step in strengthening Africa–Venezuela cooperation, moving engagement beyond hydrocarbons toward broader South–South trade and investment opportunities. The discussions focused on removing longstanding transactional bottlenecks and boosting bilateral trade in goods, services and industrial collaboration.

Leading discussions with Coromoto Godoy Calderón, Minister of Foreign Trade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the AEC delegation explored strategies to expand African markets for Venezuelan goods while facilitating reciprocal African investment in Venezuela. The visit emphasized creating a comprehensive framework for trade that extends beyond oil and gas, promoting manufactured goods, services and skills exchange.

“Together with the Minister, we discussed opening up African markets on a Global South–South strategy,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “A priority is working on Venezuelan goods in Africa – not just energy. We are committed to removing bottlenecks, improving regulations and building a framework that accelerates trade and development between our regions.”

The visit also addressed potential alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area, signaling new pathways for Venezuelan products to access African markets under continental trade frameworks. This reflects a growing interest in integrated commercial engagement that leverages shared resources and strengthens economic ties between African nations and Venezuela.

Institutional cooperation was another key focus. The AEC and Venezuelan authorities agreed on the importance of sharing best practices to position Venezuela as an attractive partner for African investors. Programs are being developed to promote Venezuelan products in African markets while encouraging investment in Venezuela’s broader non-oil economy.

Financial collaboration is central to this strategy. The delegation met with the Venezuelan Export–Import Bank to explore partnerships with African regional development banks and export finance institutions. These initiatives aim to facilitate trade finance, streamline payments and reduce transaction risks, providing a clearer, bankable framework for industrial and commercial projects.

Both sides pledged to showcase Venezuela in key African trade platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair organized by Afreximbank, and African Energy Week 2026, where Venezuelan products and expertise can be highlighted. Capacity-building workshops are planned to strengthen skills and technical exchange, reinforcing long-term trade and industrial collaboration.

The working visit marks a shift from energy-centered engagement to a broader, market-oriented partnership. By addressing regulatory challenges, expanding institutional cooperation and promoting trade-enabling frameworks, Africa and Venezuela are laying the foundations for reciprocal investment, industrial growth and deeper integration across the Global South.

“Our focus is on enabling trade that drives development. By working together to break down bottlenecks and expand commercial exchange, we are helping to shape a future in which African and Venezuelan economies grow stronger through partnership – not just in energy, but across the full spectrum of goods, services and investment,” Ayuk added.

KEZAD Group Signs 50-Year Land Lease with Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment Division to Establish AED 75 Million Facility

The 150,000 sqm facility will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in KEZAD – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Feb 26: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region and Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment Division have signed a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility in KEZAD A (KEZAD Al Ma’mourah).

Galadari is investing AED 75 million in the proposed 150,000 sqm facility that will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in the region. The group’s Heavy Equipment Division is a leading dealer and distributor of commercial vehicles and specialised construction machinery from international brands in the UAE. Headquartered in Dubai, Galadari Brothers is a diversified conglomerate with a legacy spanning more than 60 years and a presence across multiple sectors and international markets.

Since its inception more than four decades ago, the Heavy Equipment Division of Galadari has grown from being a single-product distributor to steadily build an expansive product portfolio constituting a wide range of construction equipment. The move to KEZAD comes as part of Galadari’s strategic plans to expand its business in the region, and its commitment to delivering excellence in services by joining a thriving economic zone with dedicated industrial clusters and practices.

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group said: “We welcome Galadari Brothers to KEZAD, and look forward to a fruitful partnership, as we support them in expanding their foothold in the region with our tailored services. By being in KEZAD, Galadari organically becomes an integral part of a cohesive industrial structure, designed for innovation, collaboration and delivery of outstanding services.

“As we continue on our growth path, we are hopeful that this association will be mutually beneficial for business – contributing to the growth of Galadari as well as the economic development of Abu Dhabi.”

Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers said: “The establishment of this facility marks a significant step in advancing Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment capabilities and scaling our operational infrastructure in the UAE. Located within KEZAD’s integrated industrial ecosystem, the facility enhances our ability to support large-scale projects while strengthening the logistics and supply chain networks that underpin regional growth. This investment reflects our long-term confidence in the UAE’s vision for economic diversification and industrial advancement while reinforcing our commitment to delivering the capacity, reliability, and expertise required to serve a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.”

Keturah Ardh sells out first phase for AED1 billion

All 558 townhouse plots snapped up in six months, underscoring strong demand for luxury residential land in Dubai

Dubai, UAE, Feb 26: The first phase of Keturah Ardh, Dubai’s first heritage-wellness integrated luxury community, has sold out, with all 558 luxury townhouse plots acquired in just six months for AED1 billion. 

fäm Properties, the exclusive master agency for master developer MAG Group, today confirmed the milestone, which reflects solid demand for premium residential land in Dubai, particularly freehold townhouse plots, one of the most limited and sought-after asset classes in the city’s luxury market. 

“The sellout speaks for itself,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties. “Residential plots with approvals for luxury townhouses are among the scarcest product types in Dubai, and buyers and investors responded accordingly.” 

“True heritage-wellness communities are rare, and over the past four years, this segment has consistently led the market in both performance and investor interest.” 

Located in the Al Rowaiyah First District, Keturah Ardh brings together traditional Arabic architectural principles with a fully integrated modern wellness approach. The 558 luxury townhouse plots are spread across 93 meticulously planned clusters, and phase one was brought to market with attractive payment plans. 

The broader master plan blends Arabic heritage with advanced wellness concepts to create a self-contained lifestyle community. The name ‘Ardh,’ meaning ‘earth’ or ‘land’ in Arabic, reflects its ties to culture and nature. 

The project reflects MAG Group’s 45-year dedication to quality and innovation, with amenities including spa and sauna facilities, yoga and pilates areas, running and cycling tracks, and extensive green spaces. Mature landscaping includes trees sourced from Italy, Spain, Thailand, and Africa. 

Infrastructure is being delivered in Q1 2026, with construction starting in Q4 2026, and full completion expected by 2030. 

Keturah Ardh is the fourth major project in the Keturah luxury portfolio, following Keturah Reserve, Keturah Resort: The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Al Jaddaf, and Keturah Bahar.

India Inc Embraces Smarter Benefits and Preventive Healthcare Amid Talent Race

MUMBAI, Feb 26: With health cost trends in India projected to reach 9.9% in 2026, organisations are overhauling benefits strategies, prioritising preventive healthcare, flexible benefits and digital enablement to attract and retain talent, according to the findings from Mercer Marsh Benefits’ Future of Benefits 2026 and Beyond report.

The study draws on perspectives from over 700 organizations, representing more than 3.5 million employees and 8.5 million insured lives across 14 industries. In parallel, the voices of over 82,000 employees were captured across career stages, generations, function and geographies providing a 360-degree understanding of benefit priorities, emerging trade-offs, and the strategic levers organizations must now deploy.

Sanjay Kedia, CEO and President Marsh India said,

“India is at a structural inflection point where regulatory reform, demographic shifts and rising healthcare costs are converging to reshape the employer–employee compact. Benefits are no longer a peripheral HR lever; they are becoming the foundation of workforce resilience, trust and productivity. The message from our data is clear, employers want to care for their people in ways that are compassionate yet financially sustainable, while employees are ready to share responsibility when benefits deliver real value.”

As a result, employers are moving away from fully employer-funded models towards shared funding, smarter plan design and flexible benefits to balance cost pressures with employee value. This shift is already visible: Co-sponsorship of parental insurance premiums has climbed to 29%, from just 4% three years ago, underscoring a growing focus on shared accountability.

The report also reveals organisations are prioritising preventive healthcare to support workforce longevity, with 62% operating a defined wellbeing framework and greater emphasis on early intervention, Outpatient Department (OPD) care and structured wellbeing frameworks. 43% of employers now offer OPD coverage, three-quarters of which are fully sponsored.

42% of organisations now offer health cover between INR 6 lakhs and INR 10 lakhs, while 41% have increased sum insured levels in the past year. At the same time, flexibility and digital enablement are accelerating this shift. One in three organisations has rolled out flexible benefits programmes, while 55% use benefits platforms and 25% are deploying AI-led solutions to manage compensation and benefits.

Commenting on the findings, Prawal Kalita, Managing Director, Mercer Marsh Benefits, India Leader, said,

“The future of employee benefits is increasingly being shaped by digital experience. Employees expect seamless, on-demand access to their benefits, clear navigation during moments of need and personalized guidance across health and wellbeing journeys. What we are seeing is a shift from fragmented platforms to integrated, technology-led ecosystems where data, automation and human support come together to make benefits simpler, more relevant and more impactful.”

The report also highlights the growing influence of Global Capability Centres (GCCs), which are raising benchmarks across the market. One in two GCCs now offers OPD insurance, and one in three has embedded mature flexible benefits models, intensifying competition for skilled talent.

From the employee perspective, expectation is to receive meaningful benefits. While one in three employees still reports limited flexibility, 85% are willing to spend out of pocket for benefits they value, reinforcing demand for more personalised, value-driven designs.

As India’s services economy continues to expand, the Future of Benefits 2026 and Beyond report calls on organisations to reimagine how they support their people, aligning preventive health, flexibility and digital enablement with long-term business resilience.