9, Feb 2024
Day 5 of Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava
Alandi, Pune, 9 February 2024: The fifth day of the Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava took place seamlessly, graced by esteemed guests and a surge of enthusiastic followers. The atmosphere was imbued with fervor as devotees, brimming with excitement, immersed themselves in the soul-stirring chants of the Bhagwat Gita path.Today, Baghwad Katha began with the resonant chants of “Vithhal Maza Maza” echoing through the surroundings, captivating all those gathered at the Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava in Devachi Alandi.
During the day, an enlightening Dnyaneshwaropasna session took place, where Param PujyaShri Govind Girji Maharaj imparted profound knowledge to his shishyas by venerating Jnaneshwar Mauli and reflecting upon his sacred teachings.
A major highlight of the ongoing event is the unprecedented Mahayagya of 81 havan kundasin the hallowed Devachi Alandi. Each day, the Mahayagya is conducted for the welfare ofsociety, graced by different Yajman’s. The continuous vibrations emanating from the
chanting of sacred scriptures by over 2000 Vedics create a once-in-a-lifetime spiritualexperience that is to be noticed.
The day also witnessed a positive aura as the rich Guru-shishya tradition was revived asVedshastra Samvad. Vedic scholars from across the nation actively engaged in this insightfulevent, emphasizing the significance of our age-old tradition of spreading wisdom.
The spiritual event graced the auspicious gathering with the esteemed presence of reveredspiritual guides and intellectuals, including luminaries such as Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Vijayendra Saraswati Ji Maharaj, Pujya Shri Anandamurti Guru Ma, Dharmaratna Swami Shri Gopalsharan Devacharyaji Maharaj, Pujya Shri Jitendranathji Maharaj, and Bhadant Pujya Dr. Rahul Bodhiji.
Shri Dhirendrakrishna Shastri Ji Maharaj expressed his perspectives on this sacred Mahotsava, “I am incredibly fortunate to have experienced the divine grace of Bhagwat herein the sacred land of Alandi Tirth. Witnessing the presence of revered Gurus, the sacred Yagya, the Gau mata’s divine aura, and the temple’s spiritual ambience has made my dayextraordinary. I offer my heartfelt tribute to all the Gurus and express deep gratitude toPujya Swami Shri Govind Girji Maharaj for having this holy Mahotsava, bringing us closer tothe divine essence Param Pujya Shri Govind Girji Maharaj shared, “The Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava has beena spiritual awakening and enlightenment journey. In the land of Alandi, it’s our honour towitness the divine teachings of Shrimad Bhagwad Gita and experience the essence of truedevotion.” Talking about the presence of Bhageshwar Baba, he added, “ShriDhirendrakrishna Shastri Ji Maharaj’s intellectual wisdom has been a guiding light, and theenthusiastic following of devotees reflects the universal appeal of such spiritual knowledge among the youth.”
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- By Rabindra
9, Feb 2024
DefSat 2024 holds IndSpace Wargame to build future defence space capabilities
New Delhi,9th February 2024: The second day of DefSat 2024 dawned with a remarkable assembly of esteemed dignitaries, marking a pivotal moment in the convergence of strategic discussions and visionary insights. The inaugural session featured notable figures including the H.E Lt. Gen Gurmit Singh, Hon. Governor of Uttarakhand along with Dr. Samir V Kamat, and Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO, both recognized pioneers in their respective fields. Other Dignitaries include: Lt. Gen Vinod G. Khandare PVSM, AVSM, SM (Retd), Principal Advisor, Ministry of Defence.
The focal point of the DefSat agenda on the second day lies in the integration of technology and data. Space technologies, augmented by emerging innovations like AI, AR, VR, nanomaterials, quantum technologies, communication tech, cyber and electronic warfare tech, and directed energy tech, propel the program’s advancement. Concurrently, the amalgamation of geospatial and unstructured data from diverse sensors and devices, integrated with big data analytics, establishes the foundation for 24/7 situational awareness.
Lt. Gen Gurmit Singh, Hon. Governor of Uttarakhand. Gen Gurmit Singh, Hon. Governor of Uttarakhand emphasized, “The announcement of the budget of ₹1 trillion (approximately $13.3 billion) corpus to support technological research, emphasizing innovation as the foundation of development. This allocation for R&D signals a strategic move towards leveraging the private sector’s capabilities, while initiatives like the IndSpace wargame offer insights into addressing key challenges and driving innovation. The integration of the private sector into the budgetary initiatives underscores the collaborative approach needed for sustainable technological advancement and national progress.”
Dr. Samir V Kamat, and Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO stated how Space plays a critical role in bolstering national security and fostering network-centric warfare capabilities, particularly in navigation, ISR, and ballistic missile defence. “Our focus on Space Situational Awareness (SSA), space-based ISR, and deterrence capabilities in space underscores our commitment to safeguarding our interests. “Bellatrix, a startup funded under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, exemplifies our dedication to innovative solutions, such as the development of eco-friendly propulsion systems. Through initiatives like the 75 challenges for space-based R&D, DRDO remains committed to supporting startups and facilitating access to resources for cutting-edge research.” He added.
The IndSpace wargame exercise took center stage, simulating a complex scenario focused on detecting and analyzing potential threats, especially anticipated build-ups. It highlighted the importance of leveraging space ISR capabilities for military-grade intelligence and analysis, with key objectives such as identifying dark ships, deploying satellite resources, and setting military-grade standards. While industry readiness to develop solutions was evident, participants stressed the crucial requirement for budgetary support from the defence ministry. Moreover, the discussion underscored the necessity of civil-military fusion in practical terms to bolster defence capabilities.
Regarding cyber security for space assets, Gen Khandare, Principal Advisor at the Ministry of Defence, emphasized, “India boasts formidable cyber security expertise, as evidenced by the deployment of thousands of cyber guards during G20 and the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony. This underscores our capability in safeguarding digital frontiers. There is a pressing need for increased collaboration between defence sectors and cyber warriors from civil space, alongside foreign collaboration to expedite industry requirements.”
“Result-based budgeting is imperative as we navigate through an era of economic warfare. By leveraging methodologies like MOSAIC, we can accurately assess the costs of decisions before engaging in battle, ensuring strategic resource allocation and maximizing operational efficiency.” – Lt Gen PJS Pannu, Chairman Space Committee on Defence, SIA-India
9, Feb 2024
Swiggy Partners with Greater Chennai City Traffic Police for Three-Day Road Safety Program
Chennai/ Coimbatore: February 9, 2024 – On the occasion of Road Safety Week, Swiggy, India’s leading on-demand convenience platform has collaborated with the Greater Chennai City Traffic Police to organize a comprehensive road safety and traffic awareness program for its delivery partners in the city. The program, initiated on February 5th, aims to run over a span of three days, covering key locations such as Anna Nagar and Adyar in Chennai.
The program commenced with a safety rally by Swiggy’s delivery partners at Anna Nagar yesterday, witnessing an impressive turnout of over 100 participants. This was followed by informative traffic awareness sessions led by Traffic Inspector Mr. Shakthivel. The inaugural session was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police Traffic, and Mr. Sundar Raj, Assistant Commissioner of Police. Today, another session has been lined up at Anna Nagar.
Following this, the program will extend its reach to delivery partners in Adyar next week before encompassing significant zones across Coimbatore.
The “Road Safety and Traffic Awareness Programme” underscores Swiggy’s commitment to promoting responsible driving practices among its delivery fleet. Participants will receive training on crucial aspects such as traffic rules, helmet usage, case studies, consequences of reckless driving, and parking etiquette. Swiggy has been conducting annual road safety training for its delivery partners in the city since 2018.
“We appreciate Swiggy’s proactive approach to road safety challenges as evident from their collaboration with the Greater Chennai City Traffic. Their commitment to ensuring the safety of their delivery partners and the communities they serve is commendable. Such initiatives set a positive example for responsible corporate citizenship in our state,” remarked Mr. Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police Traffic.
“Road accidents, and resultant fatalities and injuries are a big scourge for India. Every year these cost the Indian economy 4-5 percent of the GDP. Most of the victims are pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists, with many of them in their prime working age. Swiggy is committed to the welfare of its delivery partners. By conducting regular road safety awareness programmes in association with police authorities, we hope to improve traffic sensitisation to delivery partners and to improve their safety,” said Dinker Vashisht, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Swiggy.
Parthasarthy, a Swiggy delivery partner who attended the session, expressed appreciation for the initiative. “Considering we delivery partners spend so much time on the road, I am glad that Swiggy and the Greater Chennai Traffic Police organized this session for us. Such sessions help us realize that Swiggy cares about our safety as much as it does about delivering to the customer.”
Over the years, Swiggy has conducted drives in different cities across India in its commitment to enabling a safe working environment for its delivery fleet. All delivery partners at Swiggy are provided with insurance that protects them on the road.
Last year, in an industry-first initiative, Swiggy partnered with Dial 4242 to provide on-demand, free, and fast ambulance services to its delivery partners. Swiggy also has Emergency Support Services (ESS), which encompasses various options to cater to the needs of delivery partners during an emergency or mishap on the road. The ESS includes 24*7 hotline numbers, emergency cards for delivery partners, and a direct link to the local police and ambulance service via an SOS button on the delivery partner app.
For Swiggy, the safety and well-being of its delivery partners and the wider community are paramount. All delivery partners go through a road safety guidance module at the time of onboarding. The platform also conducts safety campaigns offering support and guidance throughout the year.
9, Feb 2024
IN-SPACe unveils Integrated Launch Manifesto for 2023-24 (Q4) & 2024-25
Ahmedabad, February 09, 2024
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) today announced the Integrated Launch Manifesto for space launches utilizing ISRO’s launch infrastructure. This manifesto details the launches planned by ISRO, New Space India Limited (NSIL) and various Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) for the fiscal years 2023-24 (Q4) and 2024-25. As is evident there is a notable increase in launches and in private sector involvement in the Indian space sector.
This initiative aligns with the directives of the recently ratified Indian Space Policy, entrusting IN-SPACe with authorization of launch manifesto for launch-infrastructure created through public expenditure. The launch manifesto comprehensively covers user-funded, scientific missions & other technology demonstration launches by ISRO along with the commercial launches and associated primary and co-sharing passengers.
The year 2023 stood as a milestone with the new Space Policy fostering rapid advancements in the sector. The Integrated Launch Manifesto is in line with Dept of Space’s vision on optimizing resources and encouraging innovation to establish India as a Global Manufacturing Hub for space activities, aligning with the vision of ‘Aatmnirbhar Bharat‘ (Self-Reliant India).
30 launch are planned for 2023-24 (Q4) & 2024-25 from SDSC, SHAR, half of which are catering to the commercial space sector of India with rest being user-funded, scientific missions or technology test launches. Out of the 14 commercial missions identified, 7 launches are being undertaken by M/s NSIL including 2 numbers of PSLVs being realized through an industry consortium. This marks a substantial increase in launch activity compared to previous years and is a positive indicator of the expanding space ecosystem in the country.
9, Feb 2024
Zindagi Breaks Boundaries with ‘Abdullahpur Ka Devdas’
Zindagi, the trailblazing entertainment brand, is set to mesmerize Indian audiences with the launch of its much-awaited show Abdullahpur Ka Devdas on February 26, 2024. Directed by Anjum Shahzad and written by Shahid Dogar, this 13-episode show promises a captivating blend of love, friendship, and poetic drama.
Set in a small town, Abdullahpur Ka Devdas is the coming-of-age story of Fakhar, played by Ek Jhoothi Love Story fame Bilal Abbas, and Kashif, played by Raza Talish—two best friends unknowingly in love with the same woman, Gulbano, as essayed by Sarah Khan. However, Gulbano’s fantasies have been captured by an anonymous poet named Devdas. As the plot progresses, Kashif reveals himself to be Devdas, becoming the object of Gulbano’s desire. Unbeknown to her, the true Devdas is Fakhar.
Abdullapur Ka Devdas is a classic story of love and how a person truly in love can cross all boundaries, even if that means sacrificing their love. This heartfelt story is a power package of love, friendship, betrayal, and sacrifice. Moreover, the ensemble cast, featuring Savera Nadeem, Anoushay Abbasi, and Noman Ijaz, adds depth to the narrative.
The show also explores the delicate balance between love and friendship, posing the poignant question, “Mehboob ya Mohabbat?” While love holds all the power in our lives, sacrifices, and compromises become predominant in the show. As we see Fakhar (Bilal Abbas) worrying about his lover’s happiness before his own, he goes in the end to sacrifice it all together. Zindagi’s commitment to bold multicultural narratives shines through, making this show one of the most anticipated.
Elevating the experience, Abdullapur Ka Devdas also promises to bring to you soul-stirring melodies, which include tracks like ‘Biba Sada Dil Morr De’ by Zain Ali, Zuhaib Ali, Sami Khan, Iqra Manzoor and lyrics (recreated ) by Sami Khan and ‘Oh Sahib’ by Adnan Dhool, Zain & Zohaib and lyrics by Asim Raza enriching the storytelling with a melodic touch.
The soon-to-be national crush of India Sarah Khan said, “Abdullahpur Ka Devdas introduces a spin to the idea of love stories in the most heart-breaking but relatable way. It was a wonderful experience working with such talented people on a unique script. I knew I wanted to play Gulbano as soon as I heard the story in the first meeting. Working with Shahzad Nawaz, Saweera Nadeem, Bilal Abbas and the rest of the cast is a dream come true moment for any actor. The director, Anjum Shahzad worked on every miniscule aspect of the show that made me want to portray Gulbano at the maximum capacity. It is incredibly exciting to know its release on Zindagi; Indian audience has always been generous with their love, and I am eagerly anticipating the response to our heartfelt tale.”
The talented actor Raza Talish, who plays Kashif said, “I am thrilled about ‘Abdullahpur Ka Devdas’ making its way to Indian screens through Zindagi. The whole cast and crew’s belief in the project reflected the immaculately knit story. This made the filming journey both realistic whilst profound. This story makes us yearn for more such stories, and I am glad that I have been a part of this creative piece. Now with its TV release, I’m eager to see how the audience connects with our tale of love, sacrifice, and friendship. It’s an exciting moment for all of us.”
Commenting on the upcoming launch of the show on Zindagi, director, and visionary Anjum Shahzad said, “Abdullahpur Ka Devdas is more than just a love story, it’s a roller coaster ride of human emotions. Love and Devdas are two sides of the same coin. Whether it’s the classic Devdas or the modern Abdullahpur ka Devdas, true love is at the heart of both stories. Shailja Kejriwal (Producer, India) was as a key person in making this story happen. Zindagi has been a fantastic platform for cross-cultural storytelling. I am looking forward for valuable feedback from our friends in India.”
Talking about Abdullapur Ka Devdas’s release on Zindagi, producer Shailja Kejriwal said, “The story unfolds in a small town Abdullahpur, seamlessly intertwining passion, heartbreak, and unexpected twists, revealing the intricate web of relationships. Abdullahpur Ka Devdas delves into the human heart, showcasing how love’s highs can also bring unexpected turns and deceit. I can’t wait for you to experience the captivating storytelling and powerful performances by our talented actors, portraying characters that resonate with the universal ebb and flow of love”
Abdullahpur Ka Devdas emerges as the most awaited show of 2024, poised to initiate a movement through art that transcends geographical confines and fosters a shared appreciation for diverse narratives.
Don’t miss the premiere on Zindagi DTH Tata Play (Channel no. 154) Dish TV and D2h (Channel no. 117), and Airtel TV (Channel no. 102) on February 26, 2024
9, Feb 2024
Pvr Inox Announces the Launch of Valentine’s Film Festival
National, 9th February’24: PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India, is all geared up to make this Valentine’s week extra-special for its patrons, inviting them to celebrate a magical week filled with movies, interactive experiences, and amazing offers. The specially curated Valentine’s Film Festival will showcase popular Bollywood, Hollywood & Regional romantic films across 70+ cities in India.
The week-long festival from 9th-15th February’24 will screen 22 iconic timeless love stories like Jab We Met Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Veer Zaara, Mohabattein, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar, Pyar Ka Punchnama 1 & 2 and De De Pyar De in Hindi; Dil Diya Gallan, Qismat and Angrej in Punjabi; Ohm Shanthi Oshaana, Premam and Hridayam in Malayalam; Saptha Sagaradaache Ello Side A and B and Swathi Mutthina Male Haniye in Kannada; Sita Ramam and Tholi Prema in Telugu; Vaaranam Aayiram, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa (VTV) and Minnale in Tamil; Titanic in English. There is also a BOGO offer on tickets in South and a special ticket price, starting Rs. 112 in rest of India.
PVR INOX will also be introducing a Valentine F&B Combo to celebrate the extravaganza.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Gautam Dutta, Co-CEO of PVR INOX Ltd said, “We believe in creating special moments for our patrons, and what better occasion than Valentine’s Day. This year, we’re thrilled to offer a week-long celebration filled with iconic love stories and interactive experiences. Our curated film festival will bring back cherished memories with classic romances like DDLJ and Titanic, while our innovative AI-powered quiz adds a playful twist to exploring your love language.”
Join PVR INOX this Valentine’s week for a celebration, packed with cinematic romance, interactive fun, and thoughtfully curated experiences. Book your tickets, participate in the quiz, and create unforgettable memories with your special someone!
9, Feb 2024
This Valentine’s Day, Kushal’s introduces their new jewellery collection, ‘Love that Shines’ to celebrate love
National, 09th February 2024: Leading fashion & silver Jewellery brand—Kushal’s, has embraced the essence of love and elegance with the launch of their ‘Love That Shines’ jewelry collection, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
The carefully crafted 92.5 Sterling Silver Collection from Kushal’s is a perfect blend of subtlety and sparkle, representing minimalist chic design in beautiful rose gold plating, making the jewellery look exquisite. The collection includes sleek chains with modern heart and infinity symbol pendants, earrings, bracelets, and promise rings that shine in every moment. These products are also available in rose gold, rhodium and gold pigment plating.
What sets this collection apart is the stunning jewellery designs and the thoughtful digital Video Campaign (DVC) accompanying it. The campaign, aptly themed around ‘Love That Shines,’ goes beyond the glimmer of jewellery to highlight the significance of small gestures in relationships. The emphasis on acts of love and kindness between partners, from simple breakfasts to thoughtful rides to work, adds a unique dimension to the campaign, resonating with the brand’s recognition that every couple has their language of love.
While expressing the brand’s vision, Ankit Gulechha, Director – Marketing at Kushal’s, said, “The strength of a bond lies in the significance of small moments. We celebrate those gestures with our ‘Love That Shines’ collection this Valentine’s Day, meticulously crafted in 92.5 sterling silver. The jewellery goes beyond the aesthetics and brings you the opportunity of perfect gifting – an everlasting piece of jewellery. With durable and stylish designs symbolizing the endurance of love, the jewellery is thoughtfully priced to ensure accessibility to a wider audience, making each piece a perfect and lasting token of affection.”
The focus on minimalistic and chic designs tailored for modern Indian women indicates a thoughtful approach to addressing consumers’ diverse needs and styles. The brand’s commitment to providing a seamless online and offline shopping experience reinforces its dedication to making these beautiful pieces easily accessible to customers.
8, Feb 2024
VP inaugurates the World Sustainable Development Summit 2024 at TERI today
India, February 08, 2024: The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today emphasised the need for global leadership to drive the mainstreaming of environmental protection and climate justice at all levels, embedding these principles in the very fabric of our societies. Listing out India’s initiatives initiatives that balance economic growth with ecological preservation, he said that “India serves as a beacon of inspiration for nations around the world.”
Addressing the World Sustainable Development Summit 2024, at TERI in New Delhi today Shri Dhankhar said that in an interconnected world, “we must recognize that the challenges we face – know no borders.” The impact of our actions reverberates across nations, affecting the most vulnerable communities and ecosystems, he stressed while calling for formulation and adoption of people and nature-centric approaches.
Noting that one of the cornerstones of sustainable development is the transition to clean and renewable energy sources, VP highlighted that our commitment to renewable energy not only mitigates the impacts of climate change but also opens avenues for economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation. “India’s commitment is evident not only in words but in action, with the implementation of policies that reflect a dedication to the principles we advocate,” he added.
Expressing concerns over the looming threat of climate change, the Vice-President further emphasised that our economic progress must be harmonized with a commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that we leave a legacy that our future generations can inherit with pride. The challenges we face are daunting, but they are not insurmountable, he said while underlining that by joining forces, embracing innovation, and fostering international cooperation, we can pave the way for a sustainable and secure future for all.
H.E. Brigadier (Retd) Mark Phillips, Prime Minister, Guyana, Shri Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Nitin Desai, Chairman, The Energy and Resources Institute, Dr. Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, Dr. Shailly Kedia, Curator, World Sustainable development Summit, and other dignitaries attended the event.
8, Feb 2024
AIMEP Organised Grand Nari Shakti National Conclave in New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 8, 2024: The All India Mahila Empowerment Party (AIMEP) organized a grand “Nari Shakti National Conclave” on the theme of “Nari Shakti: Towards Women-led Development” on Wednesday in New Delhi.
The conclave was a momentous celebration of women’s achievements and the impact of the Women’s Reservation Act (Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhiniyam 2023), which was passed by the Parliament last year.
The conclave witnessed the participation of over 350 eminent personalities from various fields, such as politics, academia, media, arts, sports, and social work. The conclave also witnessed the release of “Viksit Bharat Vision Documents”.
The conclave hosted a panel discussion led by Dr. Nowhera Shaik, Founder and National President of AIMEP, centred around the theme “From Women’s Development to Women-led Development: A Tectonic Shift in the Development Discourse of India.”
The conclave was followed by keynote speeches which were delivered by prominent figures including, Dr. Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment.
The speakers praised the AIMEP for its efforts to empower women and to promote their participation in governance. While addressing to gathering Dr. Ramdas Athawale said, “AIMEP is the first political party to organize such a momentous national conclave to celebrate and empower Nari Shakti. It is a historic and visionary initiative that will inspire and transform the nation,” he said.
While praising President AIMEP, he said that Nowhera Shaik stands as the epitome of Women Empowerment. Through her vision and actions, she has become a symbol of strength and women empowerment for organizing such a groundbreaking event.
A documentary was also featured in the conclave which showcases the contributions, struggles and achievements of Dr. Nowhera Shaik, Founder AIMEP.
All Members of Parliament who played a pivotal role in supporting the Women’s Reservation Bill, were commended during the grand “Nari Shakti National Conclave”.
Dr. Nowhera Shaik, who is the President of AIMEP presented awards on their behalf as a token of recognition for their dedication and commitment to empower women and advancing gender equality.
Dr Nowhera Shaik congratulated them for their courage and conviction and urged them to continue their efforts to uplift the status of women in the society. She said that the Women’s Reservation Act was a historic step towards achieving gender equality and social justice in the country.
“The Women’s Reservation Act is not just a law, but a revolution of amritkaal. It is a tribute to the sacrifices and struggles of millions of women who fought for their rights and dignity,” she said.
Sameer Khan , Political Analysts & Social Worker said “The Mahila Empowerment Party is not just a political party, but a movement. It is a movement of women, by women, and for women. It is a movement that seeks to transform the society and the nation by empowering women and by ensuring their participation in decision-making and policy-making. It is a movement that strives to create a new India, where women are respected, valued, and celebrated,”
“The AIMEP is the voice of Nari Shakti. It is the voice of Viksit Bharat. It is the voice of Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka. It is the voice of the people,”
8, Feb 2024
Stable Repo Rates to Keep Residential Momentum Going
Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group
With the fundamentals of the Indian economy remaining strong despite all global headwinds and inflation well under control, the RBI once again decided to keep the repo rates unchanged at 6.5%, thus extending the festive bonanza that it gave to the homebuyers in its last two policy announcements. Thus, homebuyers retain their advantage of relatively affordable home loan interest rates.
If we consider the present trends, the housing market has been unstoppable, and unchanged home loan rates will help maintain the overall positive consumer sentiments. Given that housing prices have risen across the top 7 cities in the last one year, this breather by the RBI is a distinct advantage to homebuyers.
As per ANAROCK Research, 2023 saw average housing prices rise by anywhere between 10-24% in the top 7 cities, with Hyderabad recording the highest 24% jump. The average prices in these markets stood at approx. INR 7,080 per sq. ft., while in 2022 it was approx. INR 6,150 per sq. ft. – a collective increase of 15%.
Going forward, we can expect the momentum in housing sales to continue, significantly aided by the unchanged repo rates which will keep home loan interest rates attractive and also signal ongoing robustness of India’s positive economic outlook.
