18, Jun 2026
MRF Achieves FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, Reinforcing its Global Motorsport and Sustainability Commitment

 

Chennai, India | June 18: MRF Limited has been awarded the prestigious Three-Star level of the FIA Environmental Accreditation Programme, marking a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey and its continuing presence in global motorsport.

The certification, awarded recently, follows an audit conducted under the FIA Environmental Accreditation framework. The FIA audit recognised MRF’s structured approach to environmental management, continual improvement and responsible manufacturing practices across its motorsport tyre operations.

MRF Achieves FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, Reinforcing its Global Motorsport and Sustainability CommitmentCommenting on the achievement, Mr Arun Mammen, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, MRF Limited, said: “MRF’s global motorsport journey is powered by performance and responsibility. This FIA Three-Star accreditation reinforces our commitment to sustainable innovation, environmental stewardship and continuous improvement across our operations worldwide today.”

With this recognition, MRF is the only Indian Tyre Company and also joins a select group of global motorsport tyre manufacturers to have achieved the FIA’s highest environmental accreditation.

MRF manufactures motorsport tyres at its manufacturing locations, which are certified to ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System standards. The audit also noted that these manufacturing locations maintain ISO 50001 Energy Management System certification.

The audit further recognised MRF’s SMART environmental objectives across its manufacturing locations, covering areas such as reducing specific power consumption, fuel consumption, water consumption and waste generation. Monitoring and measurement systems were documented across key environmental impact areas, including energy use, waste management, water consumption, biodiversity, air quality, noise, materials and procurement, transport, and Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions.

The FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation is the highest level within the programme and reflects MRF’s continued commitment to integrating sustainability into its motorsport operations while maintaining the performance standards associated with the MRF brand globally.

18, Jun 2026
India–UK Trade Agreement to Be Operational from July 15, Says PM Modi, Calling It a ‘Historic Milestone’

New Delhi, June 18: The India–UK trade agreement will come into effect from July 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday, describing it as a “historic milestone” in the economic partnership between the two countries.

India–UK Trade Agreement to Be Operational from July 15, Says PM Modi, Calling It a ‘Historic Milestone’

Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia 

The operationalisation of the agreement is expected to mark a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations, while opening new opportunities for businesses, exporters, and industries on both sides.

According to officials, the agreement is designed to enhance market access, streamline trade processes, and deepen cooperation in key sectors including goods, services, manufacturing, technology, and innovation-driven industries. It is also expected to support supply chain integration and encourage greater economic collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.

Prime Minister Modi said the agreement reflects the growing trust and shared ambition between India and the UK to build a stronger, future-oriented economic partnership. He noted that the pact will contribute to expanding trade opportunities and fostering long-term economic growth.

Officials further stated that the implementation of the agreement will provide a structured framework for boosting bilateral trade flows and improving ease of doing business between the two economies.

The development is being viewed as a major milestone in India’s expanding global trade engagements, reinforcing its position as a key player in international economic partnerships.

18, Jun 2026
PM Modi–Trump Meeting at G7 Focuses on Trade, West Asia and Strengthening India–US Ties

New Delhi, June 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions on key global and bilateral issues on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, focusing on West Asia developments, progress on the India–US trade agreement, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

PM Modi–Trump Meeting at G7 Focuses on Trade, West Asia and Strengthening India–US Ties

 Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia

PM @narendramodi met US President @realDonaldTrump in Evian and reviewed progress in India-US cooperation across sectors such as energy, trade, defence, technology and people-to-people ties.

The two leaders also exchanged views on developments in West Asia. The Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/CVZLtgcmDL

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 17, 2026

The MEA said the meeting covered strategic, economic and geopolitical priorities of mutual interest, with both leaders reviewing ways to further strengthen trade, investment, defence, energy and technology partnerships between India and the United States.

The discussions also included the situation in West Asia, with emphasis on regional stability and its global economic impact. Both sides expressed interest in deepening cooperation to support long-term strategic and economic alignment.

Following the meeting, business leaders and members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the engagement, saying it could help further boost confidence in India–US economic and strategic relations.

Officials noted that the interaction reflects continued efforts to expand the comprehensive global strategic partnership between the two countries.

18, Jun 2026
Indian Markets Trade Flat in Early Session Amid Mixed Global Cues

Mumbai, June 18: Indian benchmark equity indices traded flat in early trading on Thursday as investors remained cautious amid mixed signals from global markets.

The domestic market opened on a subdued note, with buying in select sectors offset by weakness in others. Investors largely adopted a wait-and-watch approach while tracking developments in international markets and key economic indicators.

Market sentiment remained influenced by global uncertainty, with traders closely monitoring movements across Asian and international markets. Sector-specific activity was seen in banking, information technology, and automobile stocks, while broader market participation remained moderate during the opening session.

Analysts said mixed global cues and investor caution contributed to the range-bound movement in early trade. Despite the muted start, domestic equities continued to find support from steady investor participation and resilient economic fundamentals.

The benchmark indices fluctuated within a narrow range during the initial hours of trading as market participants awaited fresh triggers for directional movement.

Trading activity is expected to remain focused on global developments, corporate updates, and economic data releases that could influence investor sentiment in the coming sessions.

18, Jun 2026
Kothari Group Forays into Retail Jewellery with the Launch of Lab Grown Diamond Brand Keemti Jewels

Kothari Group Forays into Retail Jewellery with the Launch of Lab Grown Diamond Brand Keemti Jewels

Mumbai, June 18: After over 35 years of building a global legacy in jewellery manufacturing and exports, the Kothari Group has officially entered India’s retail jewellery market with the launch of Keemti Jewels, a contemporary lab grown diamond jewellery brand founded by Armaan Sunil Kothari and designed for a new generation of Indian consumers. 

Backed by entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath, along with entrepreneur-investor Kavin Shah, Keemti brings together the Kothari Group‘s deep-rooted expertise in jewellery manufacturing with a modern, consumer-first vision for the future of lab grown jewellery.

Marking its retail debut, Keemti has launched its first flagship store in Andheri, Mumbai.

The store was officially inaugurated by Smt. Amruta Fadnavis, former banker, singer and social activist, and entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath in the presence of Armaan Kothari, Founder & MD, Keemti, Sunil Kothari, Chairman, Keemti, and entrepreneur-investor Kavin Shah. The launch event was attended by prominent guests from the entertainment, business, and social circles, including Jackie Shroff, Stebin Ben, Seema Singh, and Varun Sharma. Located on Link Road near Infiniti Mall, within one of the city’s prominent jewellery and lifestyle hubs, the store introduces consumers to the brand’s fresh perspective on modern fine jewellery and accessible luxury.

At a time when consumer preferences are rapidly shifting toward conscious luxury, transparency, and self-purchase behaviour, Keemti aims to redefine how modern Indian consumers engage with diamonds. The brand moves away from traditional narratives of inheritance and occasion-led gifting, instead positioning jewellery as a symbol of personal ambition, individuality, and self-earned success.

Designed as a contemporary luxury destination, the Keemti flagship store offers an immersive retail experience that goes beyond traditional jewellery shopping. The space showcases the brand’s signature collections across everyday wear, occasion-led jewellery, statement designs, and modern essentials, allowing consumers to explore a wide range of lab grown diamond pieces under one roof. Thoughtfully designed interiors, personalised consultations, private viewing experiences, and dedicated lounge areas further enhance the customer journey, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment for discovery, celebration, and self-expression.

While Keemti’s flagship presence begins in Mumbai, the brand is also focused on catering to the evolving aspirations of consumers across Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets in India through its omnichannel approach. Recognising the growing demand for contemporary, accessible, and value-driven fine jewellery beyond metro cities, Keemti aims to make lab grown diamond jewellery more approachable for a wider new-age consumer base across the country. In addition to its retail presence, Keemti is available through its website and leading e-commerce marketplaces, including Amazon, enabling consumers across India to seamlessly access and purchase its collections.

What sets Keemti apart within the rapidly growing lab grown diamond category is not only its consumer-first positioning, but also the structural advantage of the Kothari Group’s long-standing manufacturing expertise across the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. By owning its manufacturing process, the brand is able to deliver aspirational design, trusted quality, and stronger value for today’s consumers.

Speaking about the launch, Sunil Kothari, Chairman, Keemti, said: “For decades, we have built our legacy on craftsmanship, trust, and a deep understanding of the global jewellery industry. With Keemti, we saw an opportunity to build a brand that reflects where the future of fine jewellery is headed. The growing shift toward lab grown diamonds is not just a trend, it represents a larger evolution in consumer mindset toward conscious luxury, accessibility, and modern design.

Keemti combines the strength of our manufacturing expertise with a contemporary consumer-focused approach, allowing us to create fine jewellery that is both aspirational and relevant for today’s market. I see Keemti as a long-term growth story, and we are committed to expanding our retail and omnichannel presence across key markets in India while continuing to strengthen consumer trust in the lab grown diamond category.”

Sharing his vision for the brand, Armaan Kothari, Founder & MD, Keemti, added: “At Keemti, we believe the next generation of luxury brands will be built around consumers, not just products. Keemti was created for a new-age audience that seeks transparency, relevance, and self-expression in everything they buy. Our ambition is to make fine jewellery feel more contemporary, more accessible, and more aligned with evolving consumer values.

With our expansion plans, we are focused on taking the Keemti experience to newer markets across India and building a brand ecosystem that seamlessly blends retail, digital, and community-led engagement.”

With an expanding omnichannel presence across retail stores, e-commerce, and marketplaces, Keemti aims to make lab grown diamond jewellery a more contemporary, accessible, and smart choice for a new generation of consumers that values meaning, versatility, and conscious luxury in equal measure.

18, Jun 2026
Accrelist Appoints Derek Cheong as Chief Executive Officer

Group sharpens focus on aesthetics retail under the CEO’s first initiative, a proposed entry into the Xiamen aesthetic clinic market 

SINGAPORE, June 18 - Accrelist Ltd. (“Accrelist” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, collectively the “Group”), listed on the Catalist Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “SGX-ST”), today announced the appointment of Mr Derek Cheong Sheng Ze (“Mr Cheong”) as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, with effect from 16 June 2026. 

The announcement pursuant to Rule 704(6) of the Catalist Rules, in relation to the appointment of Mr Cheong has been separately announced on the SGXNET. 

About Mr Cheong 

Mr Cheong joins Accrelist after a career spent building consumer-facing businesses in Malaysia. Most recently, in his role as Chief Strategy Officer of Thong World Sdn. Bhd, he is advising the organization on growth and expansion plans. 

Before that, he served as Managing Director of Collab Working Lifestyle Sdn. Bhd., the master franchisee of Xing Fu Tang in Malaysia, where he managed business strategy and financial operations, and oversaw the build-out of the franchise network. He previously sat on the board of Supreme Falcon Sdn. Bhd., which operates in the healthcare sector, and held the role of Project Director at My Vacation Travel Sdn. Bhd., an event management business, giving him exposure to healthcare-adjacent services and experiential consumer brands. 

Mr Cheong holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom. 

First Initiative: Entry into the Xiamen Aesthetic Clinic Market 

The Company has entered into a strategic collaboration through a non-binding term sheet with Mr Zhou, Zan (the “Vendor”) under which Accrelist proposes to acquire a 51% interest in a target company (“Target Company”) to be incorporated by the Vendor in the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”), and  the Target Company shall be establishing and/or acquiring aesthetic business in the PRC (including aesthetics businesses in which the Vendor currently has a controlling interest). The Group will license its A.M Aesthetics brand to the Target Company on a royalty-free basis, allowing the Xiamen clinics to operate under the Group’s flagship aesthetics brand. 

As his first initiative, Mr Cheong will be driving this collaboration further, giving the Group a stronger positioning in the Greater China aesthetics market. 

The rationale is twofold. First, the proposed acquisition enhances Accrelist’s foothold in the PRC, one of the largest aesthetics markets in the world, at a valuation anchored to performance, with multi-year visibility on the underlying business before the Group is committed to completion. Second, the licensing arrangement allows the A.M Aesthetics brand to be built in the PRC market in advance of completion, at no cost to the Group. 

A separate announcement on the entry into a non-binding term sheet in relation to the proposed acquisition has been released on SGXNet and shareholders are advised to refer to that announcement for further details. 

Sharpening Focus on Aesthetics Retail 

Under Mr Cheong’s leadership, the Group will continue growing its A.M Aesthetics business, deepening its presence in existing markets and expanding into new ones. The aesthetics sector continues to be one of the fastest-growing consumer segments in the region, and the Group sees significant headroom to scale a differentiated, premium brand across Southeast Asia and Greater China. 

Consistent with this direction, the Group will keep its broader portfolio under review to ensure that capital and management resources are channelled where they generate most value for shareholders. This includes its 52.5% controlling stake in Catalist-listed Jubilee Industries Holdings Ltd. (SGX: NHD) and its 27.34% strategic stake in Bursa Malaysia-listed MClean Technologies Berhad (KL: MCLEAN), each of which the Group will continue to manage and evaluate as part of its overall capital allocation. Any material developments will be communicated through the appropriate market announcements in due course, in accordance with the Catalist Rules and the rules of any other relevant exchange. 

Mr Cheong, Chief Executive Officer of Accrelist, said: “It is a privilege to take on this role at a moment when Accrelist is strengthening its position in aesthetics retail. The opportunity in this sector across the region is enormous, and our A.M Aesthetics brand is a competitive platform for scale. The Xiamen collaboration is a deliberate first step: a derisked, strategic venture in a high-growth market, with a clear runway to scale. I look forward to working with Dato’ Terence, the Board and the wider team to deliver value for our shareholders.” 

 

 

17, Jun 2026
Tulip Melrose Announced as One of the Tallest Residential Projects on Southern Peripheral Road, Gurugram

Tulip Melrose Announced as One of the Tallest Residential Projects on Southern Peripheral Road, Gurugram

Delhi, 17 June: Tulip Melrose, a landmark luxury residential project, is set to become one of the tallest residential developments on Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), Gurugram. The tower will soar to approximately 495 feet, crowned by an exclusive sky terrace offering sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline. With an estimated investment of approximately Rs 1,100 crore, the 7.5-acre development represents a new pinnacle in luxury living on one of NCR’s fastest-growing premium residential corridors.

Tulip Melrose has been envisioned as a next-generation residential community that combines iconic architecture with thoughtful planning, superior construction quality and resident-centric design. The project has been conceptualised to address the evolving aspirations of luxury homebuyers who increasingly seek spacious residences, integrated lifestyle experiences, wellness-focused amenities and the assurance of investing with developers known for execution excellence.

The development will feature expansive landscaped open spaces, large-format residences, enhanced privacy through low-density planning, and private elevator access in select residences. A defining feature of Tulip Melrose is its zero vehicular movement at ground level — upon arrival, all vehicles enter directly into the basement, leaving the entire ground plane free of cars. Residents can then move through the landscaped grounds via electric golf carts, creating a serene, pedestrian-first living environment. The entire ground floor has been conceived as a grand clubhouse, seamlessly connecting all four towers at ground level and offering residents a unified lifestyle and wellness destination. Mirroring this at height, a sky terrace spanning all four towers at approximately 495 feet creates one expansive connected terrace in the sky, housing premium resident amenities alongside sweeping panoramic views of the city.

Beyond its architectural scale, Tulip Melrose has been designed around a long-standing philosophy that luxury extends beyond premium finishes and amenities. The project incorporates robust engineering standards, tested fire-rated safety systems, multiple levels of material testing, stringent quality-control processes and carefully planned layouts that maximise functionality, comfort and long-term durability.

The announcement comes as Southern Peripheral Road continues to witness rapid transformation into one of NCR’s most sought-after luxury residential destinations. Strengthened by significant infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity with Golf Course Road, Dwarka Expressway and NH-48, expanding commercial development and growing employment hubs, SPR is attracting strong demand from entrepreneurs, senior professionals, multinational corporations, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), high-net-worth individuals and NRIs seeking premium residential addresses.

“Southern Peripheral Road is entering a defining phase of growth and is steadily establishing itself among NCR’s most important luxury residential destinations. Tulip Melrose is the culmination of over two decades of our commitment to building homes that stand the test of time — in quality, in design and in the trust of every family that calls them home. From our very first project, we have believed that true luxury lies not only in grand aesthetics, but in the integrity of every beam, every finish and every decision made on site. Tulip Melrose embodies that belief at its fullest.” Said Mr. Parveen Jain, Chairman & Managing Director, Tulip Infratech Group.

“Adding to this, Mr. Siddharth Jain, Nextgen Leadership of Tulip Infratech Group. said, “With Tulip Melrose, our vision is to create more than another premium residential project — we are developing a landmark that will redefine high-rise living on SPR. As one of the tallest residential developments on the corridor, Tulip Melrose reflects our commitment to thoughtful planning, uncompromising construction quality, robust safety standards and creating homes that continue to deliver value for generations. We believe true luxury lies not only in design and amenities, but equally in quality, durability, functionality and peace of mind.”

Tulip Melrose joins a distinguished portfolio of landmark developments across Gurugram and Sonipat, spanning more than 100 acres and including multiple projects delivered on or ahead of committed timelines — reinforcing a legacy of consistent execution and customer trust since 2005.

Tulip Melrose further strengthens a growing luxury portfolio that also includes Tulip Monsella, a 19.5-acre mixed-use landmark on Golf Course Road with an investment of Rs 3,600 crore, Tulip Crimson on SPR with an investment of Rs 1,200 crore, and the upcoming Tulip Violet Phase 2. Together, these developments represent a cumulative investment of over Rs6,000 crore by the Tulip Group of Companies, underscoring continued confidence in Gurugram’s premium residential market.

Construction quality and safety remain central to the development philosophy. A comprehensive quality-control framework comprising rigorous design reviews, continuous site supervision, vendor evaluation mechanisms and multiple levels of material testing is maintained throughout the construction lifecycle. Supported by an experienced in-house engineering team, these practices ensure that every development meets the highest standards of structural integrity, safety and long-term performance.

The development also reflects broader trends shaping India’s luxury housing market. Homebuyers today are placing greater emphasis on developer credibility, construction quality, safety, wellness infrastructure, open green spaces, community living and sustainable development practices. Demand is increasingly driven by end-users seeking future-ready homes that support changing lifestyle needs while also offering long-term value appreciation.

As Gurugram’s skyline continues to evolve, Tulip Melrose is expected to become a defining landmark on Southern Peripheral Road — setting new benchmarks for vertical luxury living while contributing to the transformation of one of NCR’s most dynamic residential corridors.

17, Jun 2026
Data-Led Report : Cat Food Takes Over, Bengaluru Pampers Pets Most, Delhi Pet Parent Spent INR 60,957 this Year

Data-Led Report : Cat Food Takes Over, Bengaluru Pampers Pets Most, Delhi Pet Parent Spent INR 60,957 this Year

 

 June 17: India’s relationship with its pets is changing fast and becoming much more indulgent. From grain-free meals and gourmet treats to premium grooming kits and specialised nutrition, pet parents across the country are truly taking care of their fur babies. Instamart recorded a 41% growth in pet care orders, as shoppers move beyond the basics and start treating their pets’ wellness like their own. Searches for dog shampoo surged nearly 600%, grain-free pet food grew 152% year-on-year, and treats are outpacing every other category in the pet aisle.

While Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi remain the biggest pet care markets overall, the real headline is happening elsewhere: Tier II+ cities posted 96% year-on-year growth in pet care orders.

India Is Having a Cat Moment

Settling the dog vs cat-lover debate, data shows that cat food now makes up nearly 60% of all pet food demand on Instamart. Cat food is the single most-searched pet term on the platform.

  • On the feline front, Mumbai is crowned India’s cat capital, followed by Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata
  • Kolkata stands out as India’s most cat-dominated city, with more than 8 in 10 cat-and-dog food orders going to cats
  • Bengaluru is India’s most dog-loving city, followed by Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi
  • The real dark horse? Bird food, up 178% YoY, with rabbit food close behind at 130% growth

Beyond Food: Grooming Goes Mainstream

The pet food bowl is getting a glow-up, too, and so is the rest of the pet care basket. “Dog shampoo” is now Instamart’s fastest-growing pet search term.

  • Grain-free pet food grew 152% YoY, making it the fastest-growing nutrition segment on the platform
  • Wet food now accounts for nearly 45% of all pet food orders
  • Pet supplements and wellness products are up 42%, with premium nutrition showing no signs of slowing down

Bengaluru Has India’s Most Pampered Pets

Nearly 66% of all pet-care spending in the city goes toward treats, toys, and premium products, making it India’s undisputed pet-pampering capital, with Gurgaon, Noida, and Hyderabad close on its heels.

  • Gurgaon tops India’s Pet Treat Index, clocking 37 treat orders for every 100 food orders
  • Pet indulgence is going mainstream: Searches for treats, from dog biscuits and jerky to dog ice cream are climbing rapidly, with dog ice cream searches up 245% and top protein-rich pet treat brands surging 1,097%
  • Treat searches (think dog biscuits, jerky, and even dog ice cream) are climbing fast
  • India’s most dedicated pet parent (based in Delhi) spent ₹60,957 on pet care in a single year

From Guwahati to Tirupati, Pet Parenting Goes Mainstream

Pet care isn’t a metro-only story anymore. Tier II+ cities are growing 96% faster than metros, led by Guwahati (+1,473%), Dibrugarh (+796%), Meerut (+677%), Madurai (+591%), and Kottayam (+577%). Rajkot, Patna, Siliguri, and Tirupati are right behind them as the next wave of fast-growing pet care markets, and remarkably, every single one of the top 25 fastest-growing pet-care cities in India grew by more than 50% year-on-year.

All insights are derived from an analysis of Instamart orders placed between June 2025 and June 2026 across 130+ Indian cities. All metrics are indexed or relative; no absolute order volumes are disclosed.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

17, Jun 2026
International Sushi Day at Amaru

June 17: This International Sushi Day Amaru invites guests to celebrate the artistry of sushi through a thoughtfully curated selection of maki rolls, carpaccios, and Japanese-inspired creations that showcase fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Blending Japanese technique with Amaru’s signature Asian–Peruvian approach, the menu offers something for every kind of sushi lover. International Sushi Day at Amaru

Guests can indulge in favourites like the California Explosion, layered with crab meat, tobiko and avocado, the Prawn Tempura Maki with spicy mayo and crispy tempura prawns, and the Tempura Yasai Maki, featuring crispy exotic vegetables and guacamole. Vegetarian options such as the Hass Avocado Cream Cheese Roll and Amaru Tsurai Maki offer equally satisfying bites, packed with texture and flavour. 

For those who enjoy lighter, more delicate preparations, the Salmon Carpaccio with ponzu and wakame and the Hamachi Carpaccio with spicy jalapeño and wakame bring together freshness and balance in every bite. 

Whether you’re loyal to a perfectly rolled maki or enjoy exploring contemporary Japanese flavours, Amaru’s sushi selection makes for the perfect way to mark International Sushi Day. 

What: International Sushi Day at Amaru 

When: 18th June 

Where: Amaru, Mumbai 

17, Jun 2026
Airtel Extends Connectivity for Indian Army in Arunachal Pradesh

Guwahati, June 17: Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, today announced the successful completion of the first phase of a strategic initiative in partnership with 4 Corps of Indian Army headquartered at Tezpur to strengthen mobile connectivity across remote regions in Arunachal Pradesh.

With this milestone deployment, Airtel has become the first and only service provider to deliver reliable mobile connectivity in the mountainous, high-altitude, and difficult-to-access region. This will enable both military and civil personnel residing in these remote locations to stay seamlessly connected with their families.

As part of the initiative, Airtel deployed network infrastructure across 30 Army stations located in challenging mountainous terrain. The deployment significantly enhances voice and data connectivity in areas where access has historically remained limited due to geographical and infrastructure constraints.

This achievement was made possible through the strong collaboration between Airtel and the Indian Army. The Army extended extensive logistical support throughout the project, including assistance for fiber deployment and power infrastructure. In several locations where road access was not possible, the Indian Army provided the necessary assistance and logistics support to move Airtel Technical teams and telecommunication equipment deep into the mountains.

The successful completion of Phase 1 has now paved the way for the next chapter. Encouraged by the impact of the project, the Indian Army and Airtel have agreed to undertake Phase 2, under which network sites will be built across 15 additional locations in Arunachal Pradesh

“This initiative reflects Airtel’s continued commitment to extending connectivity to some of the country’s most difficult terrains. The rollout required extensive coordination between Airtel teams and local support units to overcome immense terrain and weather-related challenges,” said Balaji R, CEO – North East and Assam, Bharti Airtel. “Our teams operated under demanding high-altitude conditions and adverse weather to ensure timely and secure network activation. We are deeply grateful to the Indian Army for their unparalleled logistical support, which made it possible to bring digital connectivity to these frontier regions.”

Airtel’s continued expansion into such challenging environments reflects its commitment to bridging the digital divide and powering India’s digital transformation.