Category Archives: News

Home is Where the Hill Is: Why Buyers Are Investing in Holiday Homes in Scenic Destinations

By-Atish Saxena, CEO, Atmosphere – Sarvottam Hill Town

With fast-paced lives in urban life, owning a peaceful, serene retreat amidst nature is what many Indian homebuyers find to be their dream. Rises in demand for the holiday homes or second home in hill stations and wellness destination have seen an uptrend in recent years. Aspirations of living, lifestyle upgrade and investment potential have fueled the requirement. Amongst all these emerging locations, Rishikesh has been the newest hotspot for attracting buyers through the metropolitan hubs like Delhi-NCR.

The Surge in Demand for Holiday Homes
Second homes have changed from being a luxury investment to an everyday lifestyle asset. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a catalyst since it compelled homebuyers to reevaluate their preferences. As remote working makes flexible lifestyles possible, the need for a holiday home that can serve as both a vacation retreat and a productive space has become a widely popular choice.

Holiday home demand in India has reportedly increased by 15-20% in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to a recent report by Anarock Property Consultants. In fact, locations that can be reached by driving, such as Rishikesh, Nainital, and Kasauli, have seen a continuous flow of buyers. Delhi-NCR investors have, more than ever, found themselves leading the pack for Rishikesh, which encompasses nature, spirituality, and the modern world.

Why Rishikesh is the First Priority Second Home
Rishikesh is a perfect blend of the spiritual rejuvenation and peaceful nature of the Himalayas at the foot of this range along the banks of the Ganges. For quite a few reasons, Rishikesh has been the preferred destination for a second home:

• Proximity to Delhi-NCR: It is hardly a 5-6 hours’ drive from Delhi; hence, it becomes quite an accessible retreat for most urbanites who need serenity and fresh air in the absence of too many miles.

• Spiritual and Wellness Appeal: Wellness tourism and wellness itself – be it yoga, meditation, or Ayurveda – is in. This has made the holistic well-being-seeking buyer turn to Rishikesh. Developers are inducting wellness features like meditation zones, spas, and organic farming in their projects.

• Infrastructure Development: Delhi-Dehradun Expressway has improved connectivity to Rishikesh and further reduced travel time. There is expansion in air travel options from Jolly Grant Airport. This has increased the attraction of Rishikesh as a second home destination.

• Investment Potential: With appreciation in property prices by 12-15% every year, the city promises a great return on investment. Holiday homes in the city are also giving very high rental yields with tourist and wellness seekers arriving here.

Top Developers Tap into the Holiday Home Market
Following these developments, several key property developers have turned attention toward curating holiday homes located at desirable locales, particularly like Rishikesh, so the house developed provides an absolute haven which aligns well with what every contemporary buyer needs-from sheer opulence, environment and comfortable dwellings.

• Luxury Villas and Retreats: Developers are promoting premium villas and cottages offering a panoramic view of the Ganges and hills. Amenities like an infinity pool, wellness center, and a landscape garden are becoming a norm for projects for a resort-like experience.

• Eco-friendly Design: Environmental considerations have led to buyers focusing more on eco-friendly houses and the developers are thus building their projects with solar power and rainwater harvesting and adopting more sustainable construction techniques.

• Rental Opportunities: An increasing number of holiday home buyers treat their property as an investment and source of income. Airbnb and Booking.com allow owners to let out their houses to tourists. It’s one more stream of revenue from a short-term rental yield in Rishikesh, ranging between 6% to 8% annual return.

Buyer Profiles: Who’s Investing in Second Homes?
The profile of the holiday home buyer has become far more diverse:

• Urban Professionals: Young professionals and mid-management people from Delhi-NCR are investing in holiday homes, both for leisure and as a place to work from.

• High Networth Individuals: High Networth Individuals use holiday homes as a symbol of status and as part of luxury lifestyle, with preference toward exclusive locations.

• NRIs: Non-Resident Indians also look for such market as investment opportunities as they look to have an emotional and sentimental attachment with their ‘second home’ in India.

Key Trends in Holiday Home Development
• Workation Homes: Developers are combining workspaces with vacation homes. These can be high-speed internet, study nooks, and co-working lounges for remote professionals.

• Wellness-Centric Communities: Projects now emphasize holistic living through yoga decks, wellness spas, organic gardens, and proximity to nature trails, appealing to health-conscious buyers.

• Smart Homes: Smart home technology, which encompasses everything from automation of lighting to security and energy management systems, is now the norm for high-end holiday homes.

• Community Living: Many second-home projects are now integrating community-focused spaces that foster social interaction for networking and group activities by the homeowners.

Investment Outlook: Why Now is the Right Time
Holiday homes’ demand will grow at an average pace as homebuyers from cities are expected to seek refuge from the grinds of city life. And with expressways and regional airports now being developed, locations such as Rishikesh will experience further increases in property value.

This also means an opportunity for investors-both a personal retreat that can also be monetized as a source of rental income. With the rate of tourism in Rishikesh growing by 10-12% per annum, demand for short-term stay does not lack for anything and guarantees good occupancy for holiday homes well kept.

In summary, the concept of a holiday home has shifted from a dream that many urban buyers have long cherished to a viable and commercially profitable investment for many today. Rishikesh is emerging as a highly coveted destination for second homes given its unparalleled natural beauty, spiritual significance, and better connectivity. Developers are stepping up to meet this demand with modern, wellness-focused, and sustainable living spaces to suit discerning buyers.

As the Indian real estate market continues to grow and change, holiday homes will be the epitome of aspirational living and thus the promise of peace, profitability, and well-being in the hills for a buyer.

Embark on a Holistic Journey with BIMTECH’s PGDM Programs; Last Date to Apply 31st December, 2024

Mumbai, 27th December 2024: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), a leading business school in India, is excited to announce that admissions for the academic year 2025-27 are open. BIMTECH is inviting aspiring students to its four Post Graduate Diploma Programs; PGDM, PGDM (International Business), PGDM (Insurance Business Management), and PGDM (Retail Management). The last date to apply for these programs is 31st December, 2024.

Candidates possessing graduation degree with minimum 50% marks along with valid CAT 2024/ XAT 2024/ GMAT 2023/2024-25/ CMAT 2025 score can apply for these meticulously designed programs. However, prospective students wishing to apply for PGDM (Insurance Business Management) and PGDM (Retail Management) can also apply for the same with valid MAT 2024-25 scores.

These comprehensive two-year full time post-graduate programs emphasize the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical experiences, and additional program features, students are equipped to become effective and responsible leaders in the business world.

Inviting the eligible candidates, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH shared, “With its rich history BIMTECH will serve as a pivotal stepping stone in shaping your professional journey ahead. With our 8000+ alumni network spread across the globe and our steady industry relations, we promise you all a bright future. With academic excellence as our core value, we offer a curriculum carefully tailored to meet current and future market demands, delivered by our highly experienced faculty. Your two years with us will be a journey enriched with academic distinctions, hands-on learning, and opportunities to build a strong professional network. I warmly invite all the interested and eligible candidates to embark on this transformative path with us.”

These programs have an intake as follows: PGDM- 300, PGDM (Insurance Business Management)- 60, PGDM (International Business)- 60, and PGDM (Retail Management)- 60. The current batch boasts an overall female representation of around 40%.

The highest CTC offered to postgraduates in the last academic year at BIMTECH for PGDM, PGDM (International Business), PGDM (Retail Management), and PGDM (Insurance Business Management) were 22LPA, 22LPA, 24.43 LPA and 14 LPA respectively. BIMTECH offers merit-based scholarships to eligible students at the time of admissions as well as during the course.

Inspired by its founders Late Basant Kumar Birla and Sarala Birla, BIMTECH pioneered innovative programs like PGDM, PGDM-International Business (IB), PGDM-Retail Management (RM), and PGDM-Insurance Business Management (IBM), nurturing individuals into global leaders. Also, BIMTECH is now AACSB accredited, joining the Ivy League of Top Globally Recognized B-Schools. Fostering a symbiotic relationship, the institute excels in management education, supported by its globally placed robust alumni network of over 8000 individuals.

Aarav from Manthan School Shines in Aryabhata Ganit Challenge 2024

Hyderabad, 27th December 2024: Aarav, a Grade 10 student from Manthan School, Hyderabad has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning the prestigious Merit Certificate in the Aryabhata Ganit Challenge 2024. Aarav successfully cleared both Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the national-level competition, securing a coveted position among the Top 100 students from the Vijayawada region under CBSE.

The Aryabhata Ganit Challenge is an esteemed platform aimed at promoting mathematical excellence and critical thinking among students across the country. Last year, over 5,50,000 students from 5,050 schools across India participated in the challenge. Of these, 8,590 students qualified for Stage 2, and 100 students from each of CBSE’s 18 regions were awarded the coveted Merit Certificate.

Expressing his gratitude, Aarav shared, “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my school for playing a pivotal role in my achievement. Without the unwavering support and guidance of my teachers, principal, and friends, this milestone would not have been possible. Special thanks to Kapil Sir, whose encouragement and belief in me helped me overcome challenges and achieve this success.”

Ms. Priyanka Sen, Math Subject Lead at Manthan School, praised Aarav’s achievement, saying, “At Manthan School, we recognize the immense value of national-level competitions like the Aryabhata Ganit Challenge in fostering students’ problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and passion for mathematics. These events not only build confidence but also open doors to future academic opportunities. Our goal is to inspire curiosity and a love for learning by providing a nurturing environment that celebrates both effort and excellence.”

Principal of Manthan School, Mr. Surjeet Singh, congratulated Aarav on his success and emphasized the school’s commitment to academic excellence. “Aarav’s exceptional achievement reflects the ethos of Manthan School, where we strive to empower our students to reach their full potential. His dedication and success inspire not only his peers but also our educators. We remain committed to providing opportunities and mentorship that enable our students to excel in their chosen pursuits.”

Aarav’s accomplishment underscores the school’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a passion for mathematics. His success is a shining example of how dedication, guidance, and a supportive learning environment can lead to excellence on a national stage.

Mr. Olympia Entry Secured by Indian and Thai Winners at The Steadfast Nutrition Pro Show

India: India witnessed the grand culmination of Asia’s largest health and fitness extravaganza, the International Health, Sports, and Fitness Festival (IHFF). A huge draw at the event were marquee events and colossal bodybuilding championships – the Steadfast Nutrition Pro Show, Asia’s biggest bodybuilding event and the Amateur Olympia, India’s biggest bodybuilding tournament for amateur athletes, both sponsored by India’s leading sports and wellness nutrition brand Steadfast Nutrition. This year’s edition broke records drawing a massive crowd of over 4000 athletes, including 150 international competitors, 80,000 spectators, and industry leaders. With over 200 exhibitors, it was also the world’s largest health, sports, and fitness expo. For the past five years, Steadfast Nutrition has been a pivotal partner of the IHFF, paving the way for Indian bodybuilding athletes to compete on the biggest world stage – athletes who win the pro show get a direct ticket to the world’s most prestigious bodybuilding competition, the Mr Olympia USA.

The Steadfast Nutrition Pro Show continued to shine as Asia’s premier bodybuilding championship, providing a direct pathway to the prestigious Mr Olympia. Four winners were declared – an unprecedented 3 from India – who now get a shot at global fame – Anand Yadav, Ravinder Singh, and Manoj Patel from India won in the Men’s Classic Physique, Men’s Wheelchair, and Men’s Physique categories respectively while Jil Meret Schmitz from Thailand won in the Women’s Bikini category.

Meanwhile, the Amateur Olympia awarded 25 IFBB pro cards, transforming the careers of amateur athletes by propelling them into the professional bodybuilding circuit. Both championships were a spectacular showcase of athleticism, poise, and passion, set off to stunning light and sound effects.

Speaking about the success of the event and why Steadfast has thrown its weight behind these championships and the IHFF year after year, Steadfast Nutrition founder Mr Aman Puri said, “India is a powerhouse of sporting talent. Through our consistent support of the IHFF and these championships, we aim to create a clear pathway for Indian athletes to succeed globally and elevate Indian bodybuilding to global standards. As the first and only brand in the country to introduce a pro show in 2022, Steadfast has paved the way for Indian athletes to compete in the world’s most coveted bodybuilding championship – the Mr Olympia USA, giving them an unparalleled opportunity to win there and earn substantial prize money, international recognition, and lucrative sponsorships. Legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Phil Health, and Dexter Jackson cemented their legendary status on that very stage. Currently, only cricket, football, and hockey dominate the discourse around sports. We’re determined to give an opportunity to more sports like bodybuilding to thrive in the country, which aligns with our vision of making India the world’s sports capital by 2040.”

“The Amateur Olympia is India’s biggest bodybuilding event for amateur athletes and brings together fitness enthusiasts and amateurs, giving them global exposure. It gives a life-altering chance to amateurs to earn pro cards which propel them into the professional circuit with its exciting opportunities for sponsorships, prize money, and a flourishing career,” Aman Puri added.

Both the Steadfast Nutrition Pro Show and the Amateur Olympia are organised under the aegis of the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) – the governing body for bodybuilding championships the world over. The IHFF was a focal point for fitness expertise, networking, and knowledge exchange, making it an essential event for those engaged in the fitness and nutraceutical industry.

Apart from the Pro Show and the Amateur Olympia, this year’s IHFF also witnessed several other competitions, including powerlifting, pro panja, and zumba. Steadfast Nutrition has empowered countless athletes to medal-winning performances internationally and at the national level in championships such as the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. The brand has carved a niche because of its organ-friendly, safe, and effective formulations.

AI, Drones, and Solar: Industry Leaders Share Insights on Workforce Evolution, Innovation, and Growth in India

By-Mr. Anji Maram, Founder and CEO of CriticalRiver

As we reflect on 2024, perhaps the most consequential change we must reckon with is the impact of AI and automation on workforce dynamics. Automation is no longer solely about pursuing efficiency; it’s about empowering humans to focus on thoughtful, strategic, creative, and exploratory work while routine tasks are managed by intelligent systems. During this transformative period, we at CriticalRiver are witnessing the evolution as organizations worldwide embrace AI-powered tools to strengthen their workforces.

Our Digital Science Innovation Lab (DSiL) plays a pivotal role in this journey, leveraging data science and advanced analytics to provide actionable insights that complement AI-driven collaboration. Finding the right balance will require upskilling employees to work alongside AI while fostering an environment that champions human ingenuity. This partnership paves the way for a collaborative future where human-AI synergy drives innovation and productivity.

Marut Drones

By-Prem Kumar, CEO & Co-Founder, Marut Drones

The Indian drone industry is on an impressive growth trajectory, driven by innovation, supportive policies, and a committed ecosystem. To achieve our vision of becoming a global drone hub by 2030, we must address challenges like certification delays, subsystem reliability, and cost competitiveness. By investing in advanced technologies like AI, autonomous navigation, improved batteries, and fostering a skilled workforce through training and education, we can unlock groundbreaking advancements and expand drone applications across industries.

Small startups, the backbone of innovation, often struggle with the scale needed for substantial investments, especially when competing against China’s mass production and low-cost pricing. With continued support from government policies and proactive regulators, we remain optimistic that 2025 will be a transformative year for Indian drone manufacturers, driving growth and self-reliance.

Freyr Energy

By-Radhika Choudary Co-Founder and Director, Freyr Energy

As the solar industry continues to grow rapidly, the focus is shifting toward quality solar solutions and enhanced customer experience. Over the last decade electricity tariffs have risen by nearly 60%, and by 25% in the last year alone, while solar adoption in India has surpassed 3 million households. Yet, a significant gap remains, with over 300 million potential consumers still untapped. Solar has emerged as the most affordable energy source, supported by abundant financing options and government subsidies. This rapid growth is also expected to create more employment opportunities and drive technological innovation. Companies that prioritize quality products and customer-centric initiatives, such as Solar Experience Centers, are poised to lead the industry and deliver long-term value

Smoking, Drinking: Why Pancreatic Cancer Cases Are Rising in Indian Men

By-Dr. V S N Rao, Chief Radiation Oncologist, Director – Medical Services & HOD – Radiation Oncology,HCG Cancer Centre, Vijayawada

Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease that affects thousands of people worldwide each year. In India, pancreatic cancer is becoming a significant public health concern, particularly among men. The disease is increasingly being diagnosed in men, and it’s essential to understand the reasons behind this trend.

 The Alarming Rise of Pancreatic Cancer in Indian Men
Pancreatic cancer is a growing concern in India, with men being disproportionately affected. The incidence of pancreatic cancer is rising rapidly, and men are more likely to develop the disease than women.

 Smoking: A Major Risk Factor for Pancreatic Cancer
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens that can damage the DNA of pancreatic cells, leading to cancer. Smoking is a widespread habit in India, particularly among men.

 Drinking: Another Significant Risk Factor for Pancreatic Cancer
Drinking, particularly heavy drinking, is another significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Alcohol consumption can lead to chronic pancreatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas, which can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Drinking is becoming increasingly common in India, particularly among men.

 Other Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer
In addition to smoking and drinking, several other factors contribute to the rising incidence of pancreatic cancer in Indian men. A diet high in processed meat, sugar, and unhealthy fats can significantly increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Obesity is another substantial risk factor, particularly in men, as excess body fat can lead to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. A sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to the development of pancreatic cancer.

 Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Early detection of pancreatic cancer is crucial for effective treatment. However, symptoms often appear at an advanced stage, making it challenging to diagnose the disease. Common symptoms of pancreatic cancer include abdominal pain that radiates to the back, weight loss and loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine and pale stools, and new-onset diabetes. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

 Precautions to Reduce the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer
While some risk factors for pancreatic cancer cannot be controlled, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke can significantly lower the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels, maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help reduce the risk. Additionally, avoiding processed and red meat, and staying physically active can also contribute to a lower risk of pancreatic cancer.

 The rising incidence of pancreatic cancer in Indian men is a significant public health concern. Smoking and drinking are major risk factors for the disease, and efforts to reduce their prevalence are essential. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help reduce the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. By working together, we can reduce the burden of pancreatic cancer in India and improve the health and wellbeing of our citizens.

Views on Key Trends Witnessed by the Fintech & Life Insurance Industry in 2024 and Outlook for 2025

By-Mr. Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO of Spice Money

“2024 has been a landmark year for the fintech industry, achieving unprecedented milestones in innovation and financial inclusion. India now boasts 26 fintech unicorns, including one decacorn, with registered startups surging from 2,100 in 2021 to 10,200 in 2024 and a combined valuation of $125 billion. Payments and lending categories attracted the maximum amount of funding, accounting for 85% of capital raised, while UPI surpassed 10 billion transactions in August, underscoring its transformative impact.

Spice Money is proud to contribute to this remarkable growth with offerings like biometric banking through AEPS, assisted bill payments, cash collection, and the rollout of UPI for rural India. Our foray into MSME lending and a robust 14-lakh-strong Adhikari network has extended essential financial services to 95% of rural pin codes and 2.39 lakh villages. In 2024, we impacted over 2.5 crore rural customers monthly, fostering trust, financial accessibility, and economic empowerment across Bharat.

Looking ahead to 2025, India is on track to have approximately 150 fintech unicorns with a combined valuation projected to reach $500 billion by 2030. The industry’s future lies in driving scalable and inclusive solutions through collaboration with policymakers and public partners, fostering sustainable and impactful growth for millions across the country.

At Spice Money, we remain committed to advancing Bharat’s financial inclusion through tech-driven solutions, ensuring compliance, and enhancing fraud risk management while prioritizing sustainable and profitable growth. A supportive regulatory framework and robust public-private collaboration are essential to addressing the unique needs of rural India. With rural fintech leading India’s digital revolution, Spice Money aims to build a resilient, inclusive financial ecosystem that uplifts communities and accelerates economic progress.”

By-Mr. Pankaj Gupta, MD and CEO of Pramerica Life Insurance

“The year 2024 has been a defining period for the life insurance industry, marked by a strong emphasis on customer centricity. Regulatory advancements have not only enhanced transparency and trust but have also created avenues for sustainable growth, making the industry more robust and resilient. The revised PPHI (Protection of Policyholders’ Interests) guidelines and new surrender value regulations underscore the sector’s commitment to improving customer experience and fostering policyholder confidence.

Product preferences also saw a notable shift, with Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) emerging as the top choice for policyholders. This was driven by robust equity markets and the growing appeal of wealth creation through insurance. Industry has witnessed rise in New Business Premium from ticket size INR100K & above from 40% in Q1FY24 to 45% in Q1FY25. The growth is largely driven by private insurers whose share of new business from ticket size above 100K has gone up from 55% in Q1FY24 to 60% in Q1FY25 as business mix moves more towards ULIPs, highlighting a rising inclination towards products that blend financial protection with investment benefits. Improved 13-month persistency metrics further reflect the industry’s focus on offering the right products and strengthening collection mechanisms.

At Pramerica Life Insurance, 2024 has been a year of meaningful strides, marked by our commitment to sustainable growth and excellence in serving our customers and stakeholders. We have made significant strides in expanding our reach, particularly in underserved segments, supported by our strong MFI business. This aligns with our commitment to championing the regulator’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’. Looking ahead, we see immense opportunities in addressing India’s underpenetrated pensions market, currently at just 3% of GDP. With the elderly population projected to grow 2.4 times by 2050, the demand for retirement-focused solutions is expected to rise steadily. Life insurers have a critical role in bridging this gap with innovative and tailored products. As we continue to empower customers with transparent, accessible and innovative solutions, we remain steadfast in our focus on ULIPs as a key component of our product mix. Meanwhile , Bima Trinity is set to revolutionise the sector for customers and distributors alike. By leveraging these opportunities, Pramerica Life Insurance is well-positioned to enter into a new era of growth, supporting India’s journey towards comprehensive financial protection by 2047.”

Expert Quotes on Real Estate Sector: 2024 Trends and 2025 Forecast

By-Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd.

“The Indian real estate sector surged in 2024, supported by rising urbanization, shifting lifestyles, and increasing demand across affordable, mid-income, and luxury segments. Residential demand has been particularly strong, while the luxury market saw a boost from high-net-worth individuals and NRIs keen on high-end amenities in cities like Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Sustainability is a driving trend, with eco-friendly, energy-efficient properties gaining popularity. Valued at approximately $493 billion, the sector contributes 7.3% to India’s GDP and is the second-largest job creator after agriculture.

Looking ahead, India’s real estate market is expected to play a transformative role in the country’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) vision, with projections estimating the sector could reach $1.3 trillion by 2034. By 2030, housing demand is anticipated to grow to around 70 million units, driven by urban infrastructure projects, favorable policies, and a resilient economy. As infrastructure projects accelerate and the economy expands, real estate’s contribution to GDP is poised to rise, solidifying its position as a key pillar in India’s journey toward sustained economic growth and urban modernization.”

By-Mr. Aman Sarin, Director & Chief Executive Officer, Anant Raj Limited

The year 2024 witnessed strong momentum in the Housing sector, with the luxury and ultra-luxury segments taking center stage. Cities like MMR and Gurugram-NCR saw a surge in demand for high-end properties priced above ₹5 crore, driven by an increasing number of prospective buyers seeking premium living spaces.

Looking ahead to 2025, we expect this strong demand to continue and growth across all housing segments, however, with limited supply. Key factors supporting this positive outlook include India’s robust economic growth, stable interest rate, improved consumer confidence, and the dominance of reputable developers capturing significant market share.

Additionally, the RBI’s recent reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) is likely to translate into lower lending rates as banks pass on the benefits to borrowers. With inflation under control and a resilient economy, there is also a strong possibility of a policy rate cut in upcoming MPC meetings. Lower interest rates would enhance affordability and further boost buyer sentiment, driving continued momentum in the real estate sector.

By-Akash Khurana, President and CEO, Krisumi Corporation

The trend in 2024 –
The Delhi NCR real estate market has seen an unprecedented surge in 2024, with over 75,000 residential units sold, marking a 15% year-on-year growth, as per a recent Knight Frank report. This growth was fuelled by infrastructure advancements like the completion of the Dwarka Expressway and policy reforms supporting affordable housing. The market’s evolution highlights a shift toward integrated townships and sustainable developments. Dwarka Expressway accounted for a substantial chunk of the sales in Gurugram region which is supported by enhanced connectivity and modern amenities. Like in 2023, even in 2024 buyers continued to prioritize larger homes with green spaces and premium facilities. Inline with the growing preference about 35% of new projects, as per CBRE, are being developed with integrated IoT-enabled smart home solutions signalling a shift towards tech-driven living. The demand for luxury housing also continued to rise sharply during the year. As per a PropTiger report, India’s luxury housing market experienced a remarkable 37.8% surge in sales in 2024. Homes priced at ₹1 crore and above made up 20% of total sales, while homes priced over ₹4 crore witnessed an unprecedented growth of 82%, reflecting a rising demand for premium living, the report stated. The trend may continue in the coming year.

Outlook for 2025 –
In 2024, as per an Anarock Capital report, real estate developers raised ₹1281 crore raised via qualified institutional placements and plan to launch 253 million square feet of housing over the next five years, thus showcasing immense confidence in the sector’s resilience. Accordingly the strong momentum is likely to persist in 2025 as well. Delhi NCR is expected to add 100,000 new units in 2025, with luxury and ultra-luxury segments projected to grow by 20% as per a Cushman & Wakefield report. The completion of key infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and the push for sustainable development will further bolster the market. Luxury housing will likely continue its upward swing, buoyed by rising HNI numbers, infrastructure advancements, and evolving buyer preferences. There’s also a rising demand for mid-segment luxury housing priced above ₹ 2 crore, catering to aspirational millennials. Projects focusing on wellness amenities, like air purification systems and meditation spaces, would continue to gain further traction. At Krisumi Corporation, we’re committed to pioneering these trends, delivering projects that redefine urban living through innovation, quality, and sustainability.