Category Archives: News

Stree Shakti Foundation Marks a Decade of Grassroots Impact, Supporting 700+ Underprivileged Families Across Mumbai

Mumbai, Jan 13:  Social worker Sneha Jagasia has been a consistent source of support for underprivileged families, women, and children across Mumbai. What began as small acts of kindness 14 years ago has blossomed into an impactful and deeply rooted community welfare initiative, carried out today through her non-profit organization, the Stree Shakti Foundation.

Inspired by her belief that “har stree mei ek shakti hoti hai”, Sneha continues to strengthen and build a community where instant help, compassion, support, and hope reach those who need them the most.

A Decade of Support That Speaks Through Untold Stories

Over the years, Sneha’s work has grown privately and powerfully,

• Ration kits have been provided to struggling families to help them get through tough times

• 20–25 children have been supported with their school fees, ensuring that their education continues seamlessly

• 500+ books have been distributed to students to nurture their potential for learning and education

• Medical aid has been provided to individuals unable to afford medicines or hospital bills

• Over 700–800 people have been supported through Sneha’s social work initiatives

A Journey Rooted in Empathy

While the metrics speak to the scale, the true impact is rooted in the stories. Sneha’s journey is rooted in simplicity. She noticed people in distress and chose to help in various circumstances. A family receives basic groceries during a crisis, a child returns to school, elderly patients receive regular treatment, and women rebuild their confidence and are empowered every step of their individual journeys. She does her work without seeking recognition, focusing only on delivering help with dignity. For her, social work is not a project; it is a promise. A promise to show up for the less fortunate, and for the women who often feel unseen or unheard.

“Service isn’t about doing something big, it’s about showing up when someone needs you the most,” Sneha shares, reflecting her humble yet powerful philosophy.

Determined to Commit to the Cause

As Sneha expands her reach, her focus remains clear:

• Strengthen education support for more children

• Provide more vulnerable families with medical and ration assistance

• Build empowerment opportunities for women

• Increase community awareness and engagement programs

Through Stree Shakti Foundation, Sneha aims to uplift as many lives as possible with compassion, reliability, and respect.

Great Place To Work Report Highlights Change Adaptation Challenges in Pharma, Biotech & Healthcare

1 in 5 Employees Struggle to Adapt to Workplace Change Across Pharma, Biotech, and Healthcare shows Great Place To Work Report

“India’s pharmaceutical, healthcare, and biotech sectors are scaling significantly, with workplace culture emerging as a key driver of trust, innovation, and performance. Our recent study reveals that in the Biotechnology industry, employees with access to training and development report 33% higher innovation opportunities at work, strengthening the link between learning and innovation success. Confidence in leadership has a measurable impact on workforce stability in the pharmaceutical sector. Our research indicates that one in two employees tends to stay longer when they have confidence in their leadership. In the healthcare sector, teams that experience psychological safety have 58% more employees who report a healthy work-life balance, keeping employees engaged. Collectively, the findings prove that a highly trusted culture elevates employee performance and business outcomes. To sustain future growth, leaders need to ensure continuous training and development, encourage meaningful collaboration, and demonstrate agility to sustain growth in high-pressure environments.”, said Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work® India.

1. Alcon Laboratories India Private Limited
2. Apitoria Pharma Private Limited,
3. Aragen Life Sciences Limited,
4. Biogen,
5. Brinton Pharmaceuticals Limited,
6. Cipla Limited,
7. CK Birla Healthcare – A CKA Birla Group Company,
8. Dr. B. Lal Clinical Laboratory Private Limited,
9. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited,
10. Fermenta Biotech Limited,
11. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited,
12. HCL Healthcare,
13. INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.,
14. Kids Clinic India Limited (Cloudnine),
15. Laurus Labs Limited,
16. Max Healthcare Institute Limited,
17. Medtronic Engineering And Innovation Center Private Limited,
18. Novartis Healthcare Private Limited,
19. R1 RCM Global Private Limited,
20. Rukmani Birla Hospital – A Part of CK Birla Hospitals,
21. Sagility India Limited,
22. Sentiss Pharma Private Limited,
23. Sigachi Industries Limited,
24. Stryker India,
25. Thermo Fisher Scientific India

 Demand Softens, Supply Rebounds as India’s Housing Market Enters a Phase of Measured Moderation in OND 2025

New Delhi, Jan 13: According to Magicbricks’ latest PropIndex report for the October–November–December (OND) 2025 quarter, India’s residential real estate market entered a phase of measured moderation, with housing demand declining by 8.7% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) even as supply rebounded by 3.4% QoQ across key cities. Residential prices rose by 1.5% QoQ and 16.9% year-on-year (YoY) during the quarter—the slowest pace of appreciation recorded in the past two years indicating a shift towards more stable, value-led market conditions amid seasonal and policy-related recalibration.

“The moderation witnessed during OND 2025 reflects a phase of market recalibration rather than any weakening of underlying fundamentals,” said Sudir Pai, CEO, Magicbricks “Demand softness during the quarter was largely seasonal and policy-driven, while the rebound in supply indicates that developers are increasingly aligning new launches with affordability thresholds and end-user demand. The slower pace of price appreciation suggests a shift towards more sustainable, value-led growth, particularly across mid and upper-mid segments, which continue to demonstrate the strongest absorption visibility.”

The moderation in demand aligns with festive-season spending patterns and ongoing monetary policy transitions, as homebuyers adopted a wait-and-watch approach amid evolving interest rate expectations. At the same time, the rebound in supply indicates cautious confidence among developers, particularly in price brackets where affordability and demand depth remain strong.

After two quarters of relative stability, housing supply gained momentum during OND 2025, with pan-India listings rising 3.4% QoQ and remaining marginally positive on an annual basis. Greater Noida (+9.6%), Gurugram (+6.6%), Thane (+5.1%) and Noida (+4.8%) emerged as key contributors to new supply additions. The revival was largely concentrated in the mid and upper-mid segments, as developers increasingly aligned new launches with end-user affordability thresholds.

A closer look at supply composition reveals a strategic recalibration across markets. In the National Capital Region, mid and upper-mid segment supply rose sharply in Greater Noida and Gurugram (both +27.3%) and Noida (+13.4%), while luxury supply showed signs of moderation. Gurugram recorded a 32.5% increase in homes priced up to INR 3 crore, compared to a 14.2% rise in the luxury segment above INR 5 crore. Mumbai mirrored a similar trend, with supply up to INR 5 crore increasing by 10.2%, even as listings above INR 9 crore declined by 8.5% QoQ.

Bengaluru remained the only major market to witness consistent expansion in luxury housing, supported by demand across established micro-markets such as Whitefield, Koramangala, Indiranagar, JP Nagar and Bellary Road. In contrast, Hyderabad saw a stronger push towards mid-segment housing, with supply up to INR 2.5 crore rising by 15.4%, compared to a 9.5% increase in homes priced above INR 5 crore.

Select cities are also emerging as new premium-growth pockets. Chennai and Kolkata recorded an increase of 19.2% and 11.9%, respectively, in supply above INR 3 crore, while Pune (+28.9%) and Thane (+33.1%) saw notable traction at higher price points. This trend is being supported by infrastructure-led development, including metro expansions, improved urban connectivity, and large-scale logistics and employment corridors.

Pricing trends during the quarter reinforced the narrative of market stability. While residential values continued to rise, the pace of appreciation moderated significantly, indicating a transition towards more rational price discovery. Faster supply additions relative to demand are reshaping market dynamics, with selective inventory absorption and cost-side pressures supporting price resilience, particularly in well-connected micro-markets.

Looking ahead to 2026, market momentum is expected to be influenced by interest rate clarity, infrastructure execution, and continued alignment of new supply with affordability thresholds. A potential downward movement in lending rates could help convert deferred demand into transactions, supporting absorption levels and maintaining pricing stability across key residential markets.

Magicbricks is India’s No.1 property site

As the largest platform for buyers and sellers of property to connect in a transparent manner, Magicbricks has monthly traffic exceeding 2 crores and an active base of over 15 lakh property listings. Magicbricks has metamorphosed into a full stack service provider for all real estate needs, with services including home loans, interiors, and expert advice.

With 17+ years of experience and deep research-based knowledge, Magicbricks also presents a repertoire of insight-driven platforms like MBTV—India’s leading online real estate YouTube channel—and other proprietary tools so that home buyers can access all information related to price trends, forecasts, and locality reviews.

DesignCafe Strengthens its North India Presence with New Experience Centre Launch in Noida

Noida, Jan 13: Strengthening its footprint in North India while continuing its national expansion, DesignCafe, India’s leading home interiors brand, has launched a new Experience Centre in Noida, marking its 21st store in India. With a growing presence across key cities, DesignCafe continues to scale it’s pan-India footprint by adding six more Experience Centres in the coming months.

Spread across 2,700 sq. ft., the Noida Experience Centre is designed to show how interiors come together in real homes. It includes a fully designed three-bedroom apartment, along with modular kitchens, wardrobes, bedrooms, and living spaces. The centre also showcases four kitchen formats and DesignCafe’s unique space-saving design solutions, aimed at improving everyday living.

Beyond modular design experience zones, the Noida Experience Centre brings a more premium, material-led experience to the forefront, shaped by a detailed study of the region. The space is curated to reflect the refined sensibilities of Noida and the wider NCR, so homeowners can experience the difference across finishes, tones, and styling cues, not just view them on a screen. With a fully designed three-bedroom apartment and multiple design directions under one roof, the experience is intentionally 360-degree: immersive, highly personalised, and versatile enough to suit distinct tastes, from understated sophistication to bold statements.

The new centre marks a focused expansion within the National Capital Region, with Noida’s growing residential developments and rising demand for organised, modular interiors, making it an important market for the brand. DesignCafe noted that the homeowners in Noida are increasingly looking for functional, personalised design solutions delivered through a transparent, end-to-end process.

Founded by award-winning architect co-founders Gita Ramanan and Shezaan Bhojani, DesignCafe has built its growth around a design-led, technology-enabled approach focused on delivering personalised, high-quality interior solutions for modern Indian homeowners.

Commenting on the expansion, Gita Ramanan, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, said,

“When we started DesignCafe, our goal was simple – to make personalised, high-quality home interiors easier to access and easier to trust. Noida is a fast-evolving market, with homeowners who care deeply about functionality, finish, and the feeling of a well-made home. With this Experience Centre, we’re bringing a more immersive way to explore design, backed by transparent processes, strong technology, and craftsmanship you can see and feel.”

Shezaan Bhojani, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, added,

“We’re excited to open our new Experience Centre in Noida, bringing DesignCafe closer to homeowners across NCR.  Noida has always stood out as a region where homeowners want the best for their home in terms of design and product. We are glad to launch a centre that brings the best in global design and materials to the Noida market.” 

The company’s manufacturing operations are supported by a 65,000 sq. ft. facility equipped with precision German machinery. Each project goes through multiple quality checks, uses materials sourced from established partners, and is backed by long-term warranty coverage, with a focus on durability and efficient use of space.

DesignCafe currently works with 11 franchise partners across India, a network that supports local entrepreneurs through access to DesignCafe’s technology platforms, training, and operational support, while enabling the brand to scale its presence consistently. The new Noida Experience Centre is now open to visitors and offers homeowners an opportunity to explore interior solutions and engage with the brand’s trusted and admired design process.

Budget 2026 Should Strengthen Dairy Infrastructure and Farm Productivity: Akshali Shah

By: Akshali Shah, Executive Director, Parag Milk Foods

“Ahead of Budget 2026, a continued focus on the dairy and agriculture sector, particularly on strengthening infrastructure, improving farm productivity, and expanding milk collection, can help the sector become more efficient and globally competitive. Investments in modern processing technology, organised supply chains, and better farm practices will not only support farmers and reduce wastage but also give the Indian dairy sector greater global reach and recognition for quality products.

Reforms in GST and other taxation have played a positive role in supporting consumption patterns over the past year. Boosting consumption remains an important ask from the FMCG sector. While urban demand is showing signs of recovery, rural consumption—though resilient—requires continued policy support, especially in the face of monsoon risks and inflationary pressures.

Looking ahead, we hope Budget 2026 will continue to strengthen agricultural and dairy infrastructure, support rural development, and encourage the adoption of modern technology. Initiatives such as incentivising modern processing facilities and expanding cold-chain logistics can help improve milk availability, product quality, and overall efficiency. By building on recent progress and supporting farmers with better access to credit and resources, the sector can become more resilient, competitive, and capable of meeting growing consumer demand.”

Bank of Baroda Joins Hands with CREDAI Hyderabad for Property Show 2026

Chandigarh, Jan 13: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, has announced its association with CREDAI Hyderabad as the Exclusive Presenting Partner for the upcoming CREDAI Hyderabad Property Show 2026, scheduled to be held from February 6 to 8 at HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad. The three-day property expo will bring together leading real estate developers from across the city, offering prospective homebuyers a single platform to explore a diverse range of residential projects and avail attractive financing solutions from Bank of Baroda.

Organised by the Hyderabad chapter of Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI), the Property Show will feature only RERA-approved projects from CREDAI member developers, ensuring transparency, credibility and enhanced consumer confidence.

At the Bank of Baroda stall, home buyers can avail instant in-principle home loan sanctions, special offers and receive personalised loan consultations.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ritesh Kumar, General Manager & Zonal Head Hyderabad Zone, Bank of Baroda said,

“At Bank of Baroda, our aim to play a constructive role in Hyderabad’s growth and development by acting as an enabler for both homebuyers and developers through timely, accessible and customised financial solutions. Our association with CREDAI Hyderabad for the Property Show 2026 reflects this commitment. Hyderabad is one of India’s most vibrant housing markets, and through this partnership, we look forward to making home ownership more accessible and affordable for aspiring buyers.”

Switch Double-Decker Bus to Support Chennai’s Heritage Tourism Initiative

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Jan 13: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, along with Switch Mobility and Tamil NRIs based in the United States, today gifted a double-decker bus to the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department.

Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M.K. Stalin, inaugurated Chennai’s new double-decker tourism bus service, which will connect the city’s iconic landmarks and heritage sites.

The initiative aims to offer residents and tourists an immersive experience of Chennai’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, while promoting sustainable and modern urban mobility solutions.

The initiative underscores Ashok Leyland’s continued focus on sustainable mobility and highlights its enduring partnership with Tamil Nadu in driving innovation-led growth in public and tourist transportation.

The Real Green Luxury: Handmade Rugs That Outlast Fast Interiors

Jaipur, Jan 13: Interior design today is increasingly measured by lifespan. According to global interior lifecycle studies, most mass-produced soft furnishings are replaced within five to seven years, often sooner in high-use residential or hospitality spaces. This cycle of frequent replacement has become one of the largest contributors to material waste in interiors.

For designers moving away from fast interiors, sustainability is no longer an abstract idea. It is a practical design decision rooted in durability, maintenance, and long-term value. Within this shift, handmade rugs are being reconsidered not as stylistic elements but as infrastructure within a space.

The Performance Advantage of Handmade Rugs

The structural difference between handmade and machine-made rugs is not aesthetic alone. Hand-knotted and hand-woven rugs typically feature higher knot density, stronger tension control, and layered construction, all of which significantly extend lifespan. In real terms, a well-made handmade rug can last anywhere from twenty to fifty years with proper care. Many outlive the interiors they were originally designed for.

By comparison, machine-made rugs are often manufactured with synthetic backings and heat-bonded fibres that begin to degrade within a decade. Once the backing fails, repair is rarely viable. From a design specification perspective, this makes handmade rugs not only more sustainable but also more economical over time.

Man Made Rugs works exclusively with traditional weaving techniques that prioritise structural integrity. Each rug is made to be serviceable, meaning it can be cleaned, restored, and repaired rather than discarded. For designers, this offers predictability in performance and longevity across long-term projects.

Why Lifespan Is the Most Honest Sustainability Metric

“As designers, we often talk about sustainability in terms of materials, but the real question is lifespan,” says Pritam Khanna, Founder of Man Made Rugs. “If something needs to be replaced every few years, it isn’t sustainable. A handmade rug earns its place because it’s designed to stay.”

Material choice plays a measurable role in this longevity. Natural fibres such as wool and silk have proven abrasion resistance, thermal regulation, and elasticity, allowing them to recover from compression in high-traffic areas. Wool, in particular, is naturally flame-resistant and soil-repellent, reducing the need for chemical treatments over time.

Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, are a leading source of microplastic shedding in interiors. Studies have shown that synthetic carpets and rugs release microfibres into indoor environments through daily wear, vacuuming, and cleaning. For designers working with wellness-conscious clients, this has become an increasingly relevant consideration.

Sustainability Beyond the Finished Product

Handmade rugs also differ significantly in production impact. Machine-made rugs rely heavily on automated manufacturing, petrochemical-based materials, and energy-intensive processes. Handmade rugs require minimal electricity and are largely produced through human skill rather than industrial systems.

This slower production model supports artisan livelihoods and preserves regional weaving knowledge that has been refined over centuries. From a design ethics standpoint, handmade rugs contribute to social sustainability as much as environmental responsibility.

Visually, the benefit is equally tangible. Handmade rugs introduce subtle variation in weave and tone that softens interiors and prevents visual fatigue. Designers often use this nuance to balance highly polished surfaces such as stone, metal, and glass, creating spaces that feel warmer and more resolved.

A Foundational Element in Contemporary Design

Man Made Rugs approaches rug-making as a design collaboration rather than a decorative afterthought. The collections are intentionally restrained in palette and pattern, allowing them to integrate seamlessly into residential, commercial, and hospitality interiors.

“We think of our rugs as part of the foundation of a space, not an accessory,” Khanna adds. “When something is made slowly and with intention, it naturally belongs.”

For interior designers, this approach reduces replacement cycles, simplifies maintenance planning, and aligns with a growing demand for responsible specification.

Rethinking Luxury Through Measurable Impact

As sustainability continues to redefine luxury, handmade rugs stand apart for one clear reason. Their value can be measured not only in appearance, but in years of use, reduced waste, and long-term performance.

Budget 2026 Must Accelerate Growth and Efficiency in India’s Dairy Sector: Dr. K Rathnam

By:-  Dr. K Rathnam, Whole-time Director and Chief Executive Officer, Milky Mist Dairy Food Limited

“The dairy sector is a cornerstone of India’s food security and rural economy, directly supporting millions of farmers and allied livelihoods. Union Budget 2026 presents a timely opportunity to accelerate the next phase of growth for this vital sector.

We welcome the government’s continued support on the GST front and believe there is scope for further rationalisation of key inputs such as packaging material, refrigeration equipment, animal feed and veterinary services. This would go a long way in easing rising cost pressures and improving overall efficiency across the value chain.

A strong policy push towards strengthening cold-chain infrastructure and logistics is critical. Enhanced capital subsidies, interest subvention schemes and easier access to long-term credit will help bridge existing infrastructure gaps, reduce wastage and improve milk quality, especially in hinterland regions.

Targeted incentives for both dairy companies and farmers are equally important. Initiatives focused on productivity enhancement, fodder development, animal health, affordable cattle insurance and cold-chain logistics can significantly improve farmer incomes while ensuring consistency in supply.

From an industry standpoint, incentives for value-added dairy products, automation, advanced quality-testing laboratories and sustainability initiatives will encourage private players to invest in modern, scalable capacity aligned with global standards.

Overall, a balanced and forward-looking Budget that strengthens farmer incomes, upgrades infrastructure and enables organised dairy players to scale sustainably will create long-term value for the sector and reinforce India’s position as one of the world’s leading dairy economies.”

Goa Tourism Reiterates Zero Tolerance for Harassment, Acts Swiftly on Viral Video Incident

Panaji, Jan 13: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and unruly behaviour involving tourists, particularly incidents that compromise the safety and dignity of women.

Responding to a recent incident involving the harassment of a woman tourist, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte stated that such behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He emphasised that while Goa welcomes responsible tourists, strict action will be taken against anyone who violates the law or disrespects individuals.

“We do not tolerate unruly behaviour that attempts to outrage the modesty of women. Goa stands for safety, dignity and responsible tourism. Based on the viral video, a police complaint was immediately filed and prompt action was ensured. The Government of Goa will not take such incidents lightly, and the police have acted swiftly to address the matter,” the Minister said.

The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, reportedly involved an intoxicated individual blocking the path of a woman tourist at a beach shack and behaving in an inappropriate manner. The individual allegedly made lewd and suggestive gestures, causing distress to the tourist. Authorities intervened immediately after the video came to light.

Following the incident, the Goa Tourism Department lodged a formal complaint at the Calangute Police Station. An FIR has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including Sections 74, 75 and 79, along with other applicable sections of law.

Commenting on the incident, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said the Department remains fully committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all visitors.

“The Department of Tourism works closely with local administration and law enforcement agencies to address such incidents promptly. Any act of harassment or misconduct will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law, to uphold Goa’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination,” he said.

The Department of Tourism has reaffirmed that the safety, dignity and well-being of tourists remain a top priority. Strict action will continue to be taken against individuals indulging in harassment or misconduct, reinforcing the State’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all.

The Government of Goa urges all visitors to adhere to the law, respect local values, and contribute positively to Goa’s tourism ecosystem.