4, Sep 2026
Apparel Group Redefines India’s Retail Landscape with Carrefour’s Ambitious Entry
Apparel Group sets the stage for Carrefour’s India journey, beginning with a 50,000+ sq. ft. Greater Noida flagship and laying the foundation for future growth across North India.
NEW DELHI, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Apparel Group, a leading fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate, announces the entry of Carrefour into India with the opening of the renowned retailer’s first flagship store at H&S Mall, Boulevard Walk, Greater Noida West, marking the beginning of an ambitious new chapter for both businesses in one of the world’s most dynamic consumer markets.
The opening marks a defining milestone in Apparel Group’s India growth journey and its expansion into food and hypermarket retail. Bringing together Carrefour’s international retail expertise and Apparel Group’s deep understanding of the Indian market, the partnership sets the foundation for a new generation of modern retail in India, built around quality, value, convenience and the evolving aspirations of Indian consumers.
Spanning more than 50,000+ sq. ft., the Greater Noida flagship introduces Carrefour’s established retail experience to India through a proposition thoughtfully adapted for the local market. The store features more than 15,000+ SKUs, including exclusive international products, alongside an extensive selection of locally sourced products across fresh produce, grocery, bakery, household essentials and personal care.
More than a first store, the flagship signals the scale of the ambition ahead. Apparel Group plans to expand Carrefour’s presence across North India over the coming years, building a nationwide retail platform supported by strong local partnerships, modern supply chain capabilities and an integrated omnichannel ecosystem.
Under Apparel Group’s operational leadership, Carrefour will work with a growing network of local suppliers and partners, strengthening connections across India’s retail, supply chain and agricultural ecosystem.
Mr. Nilesh Ved, Chairman of APPCORP Holding, Owner of Apparel Group and Founder of KORA Properties, said: “Carrefour’s entry into India represents more than the arrival of an iconic retailer. It reflects our conviction in India’s extraordinary potential and our ambition to help shape the next chapter of its retail landscape. Together with Carrefour, we are combining international retail expertise with deep local market understanding to build a platform designed for scale, relevance and enduring value. This flagship is the beginning of a much larger journey, one that will take Carrefour to more cities, serve more communities and create new opportunities across India’s evolving consumer ecosystem.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Patrick Lasfargues, Executive Director – International Partnership, Carrefour, said: “Today’s launch marks a significant milestone for Carrefour as we officially begin our retail journey in India. We see India as one of the world’s most dynamic consumer markets, underpinned by strong economic fundamentals, a rapidly evolving retail landscape and immense long-term potential. Our partnership with Apparel Group brings Carrefour’s global expertise with deep local market knowledge, creating a strong platform for sustainable growth. This flagship store is the first step in our long-term ambition to build a nationwide network and a robust omnichannel retail business that delivers quality, value and convenience to customers across India.”
India represents one of the most compelling growth opportunities in modern retail, powered by rising consumer aspirations, urbanisation and the continued evolution of organised retail. With the sector projected to exceed US$2.36 trillion by 2030, the opportunity extends beyond market growth to shaping how the next generation of Indian consumers shop, connect and experience retail.
Apparel Group and Carrefour aim to build precisely that model. The venture will combine Carrefour’s extensive international capabilities with Apparel Group’s local market expertise to bring a broader world of products and experiences to Indian consumers. Alongside the physical store network, Apparel Group will develop an integrated omnichannel ecosystem powered by modern logistics infrastructure, technology and strategic local partnerships, creating a platform built to evolve with India’s ambitions.
The Greater Noida flagship is only the beginning. It represents a long-term ambition to build Carrefour into one of India’s most relevant, accessible and trusted retail destinations, creating enduring value for consumers, suppliers, communities and the wider economy as the network expands across the country.
About Apparel Group (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate residing at the crossroads of the modern economy — Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, Apparel Group caters to eager shoppers through its 2600+ retail stores and 85+ brands on all platforms while employing over 28,000+ multicultural staff.
Apparel Group has carved its strong presence in the GCC and expanded thriving gateways to market in India, South Africa, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Egypt. Additionally, clear strategies are in place to enter emerging markets such as Hungary and Philippines.
Apparel Group India has created an omnichannel experience, operating brands originating from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The brands in India include leading names in fashion, footwear, and lifestyle such as Victoria’s Secret, Dolce&Gabbana Beauty, Victoria’s Secret PINK, YSL, Charles & Keith, Crocs, Aldo, Aldo Accessories, Bath & Body Works, Cotton On, Levis Kids, Tim Hortons, Inglot, Call It Spring, Nike Littles, Jordan Kids, Anne Klein, Herschel, R&B, Carrefour, and Daiso Japan. Apparel Group has a multi-brand partnership with Marquee Brands for the licensing of BCBG, Ben Sherman, Bruno Magli, Sur la table, and Martha Stewart brands, across GCC and India. With 300+ stores and 20+ brands, the company serves thousands of customers across 50 cities in India.
Apparel Group owes its amazing growth to the vision and guidance of its dynamic Founder and Chairwoman, Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, who has taken the company from strength to strength since its inception in the last two decades.
For more information, please visit:
Apparel Group India | LinkedIn | Download Club Apparel App
About Carrefour Group
With a multi-format network of over 15,000 stores in more than 40 countries, the Carrefour Group is one of the world’s leading food retailers. Carrefour International Partnership manages all the Carrefour Group’s franchised Partners worldwide, operating in more than 30 countries with over 4,000 stores. Carrefour posted sales of €91.5 billion in 2025. Its integrated store network employs more than 300,000 people who help to make Carrefour the world leader in the food transition for all, by offering quality food every day, accessible everywhere and at a reasonable price. In total, more than 500,000 people work under Carrefour banners worldwide. For more information, visit www.carrefour.com, or find us on X (@news_carrefour) and LinkedIn (Carrefour).
Contact
amruta.khatavkar@apparelgroup.in
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- By Sai Krishna
4, Sep 2026
Roborock Redefines Human-Centered Cleaning at IFA 2026: Unveiling a Comprehensive Ecosystem from the Living Room to the Pool
BERLIN, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Roborock the global leader in home robotics engineered to simplify daily life and World’s No.1 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Brand H1 2026* announces its participation in IFA 2026 strengthening its claim “Rocking Life with You.” Guided by the philosophy to simplify daily life, Roborock focuses on human-centered intelligent cleaning, where technology adapts seamlessly to the real and dynamic moments of everyday life. By prioritizing user needs, the products advanced intelligence works effortlessly in the background, providing autonomous and time-saving solutions that free up people’s schedules to spend more time on what truly matters.
This commitment to engineering excellence and thoughtful design has earned Roborock its position as a global leader. Quan Gang, President of Roborock, said:
“Our mission is to give time back to our customers by automating everyday tasks. Building smarter robots is the means, not the goal. Every minute spent on housework is time taken away from family, passions, and personal well-being. By staying customer-centric and strengthening our global presence and partner networks, we turn technological leadership into trusted, tailored solutions that make everyday life easier for people around the world.”
A new Frontier in Water Care: Roborock RockAqua P1
Roborock is thrilled to introduce the Roborock RockAqua P1 at IFA in Berlin, marking the debut of its first-ever pool cleaner line from the RockAqua series. This smart underwater robot is designed to master complex pool shapes with complete coverage across floors, walls, waterline, and shallow platforms down to 15 cm.
It combines a powerful 6,800 GPH suction, a 4L debris basket with 180+70μm dual-filtration, and up to 3.5 hours of runtime with a fast 3.5-hour recharge. Equipped with monocular camera obstacle avoidance, dynamic dirt detection, and Auto Waterline Parking, the RockAqua P1 effortlessly adapts to complex pool shapes for easy retrieval and maintenance.
The Roborock RockAqua P1 marks Roborock’s entry into pool cleaning and the latest expansion of its outdoor cleaning innovation. Bringing the company’s expertise in autonomous navigation and debris removal to the water, it extends Roborock’s intelligent cleaning capabilities to pool care while reducing the need for manual maintenance.
Mastering Every Threshold: the Roborock Robot Vacuum Series
The flagship Roborock Saros 20 Flow and Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro represent the pinnacle of robotic mobility. Both models are powered by a massive 36,000 Pa HyperForce® suction motor, feature the upgraded AdaptiLift® Chassis 3.0, which allows the robots to cross double-layer thresholds of up to 8.8 cm, and are equipped with the RetractSense Navigation System. The Roborock Saros 20 Flow utilizes a roller mop for thorough cleaning of floors. The Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro achieves a remarkably slim profile, effortlessly navigating under sofas and beds as low as 7.95 cm with advanced localization and mapping capabilities.
Versatile Power for the Whole Home: the Roborock F25 Series
For deep floor restoration, the new wet dry vacuum models deliver unmatched performance. The Roborock F25 Ultra Steam Gen 2 combines high-temperature steam and hot-water cleaning to tackle stubborn, dried-on stains while automatically adapting its power to different floor conditions. Alongside it, the Roborock F25 Pro Turbo Combo offers a versatile 5-in-1 system; with its detachable drive module and interchangeable heads, it effortlessly transforms from a powerful wet dry vacuum into a high-performance cordless vacuum for furniture and hard-to-reach areas.
Smart Outdoor Living: Roborock RockNeo Q2 LiDAR
Expanding the “Rocking Life” experience to the garden, the Roborock RockNeo Q2 LiDAR is a robotic mower designed to make professional lawn care effortless. Covering areas up to 800 m², it utilizes Sentisphere™ LiDAR environmental perception and ReactiVision Fusion for precision obstacle avoidance completely freed of cables or antennas. With its floating cutting deck and the built-in PreciEdge™ cutting module, with a 3 cm edge-cutting capability that delivers a near-perfect lawn finish with minimal manual setup.
The Greatest Meeting the Greatest: Partnership with Real Madrid
Roborock’s journey to becoming the World’s No. 1 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Brand* is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence – a mindset shared by its partner, Real Madrid.
With a record of 15 UEFA Champions League titles and 36 La Liga championships, Real Madrid embodies the same commitment to continuous progress and high performance. The partnership brings together two global leaders united by a shared ambition to keep moving forward.
“When the world’s number one in smart home robotics joins forces with the greatest football club in history, it is a partnership built on shared ambition,” said Quan Gang, President of Roborock. “Like Real Madrid, we never rest on past achievements. We continue to push the boundaries of what is possible and strive for excellence for our global community.”
About Roborock
Roborock is a leading smart cleaning brand renowned for its intelligent cleaning solutions. Having become the #1 best-selling robotic vacuum cleaner brand for H1 2026, according to IDC*, Roborock enriches lives with its innovative line of robot vacuums, cordless vacuum cleaners, wet-dry vacuums, robotic lawn mowers, robotic pool cleaners, and washer-dryers. Rooted in a user-centric approach, our R&D-driven solutions cater to diverse cleaning needs in millions of homes across more than 170 countries and regions. Headquartered in Beijing and with strategic subsidiaries in key markets, including the United States, Germany, South Korea, Japan, Poland and the Netherlands. Roborock is dedicated to elevating its market presence worldwide. As of August 2026, Roborock serves more than 30 million households. For more information, visit https://global.roborock.com/.
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4, Sep 2026
CII-IGBC’s Green Synergy Noida 2026 Champions Climate Resilience and Water Security
Noida, Sep 4: The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), organized the 2nd edition of Green Synergy Noida 2026, Noida, bringing together government, real estate, infrastructure, industry and sustainability leaders to deliberate on the future of climate-resilient, resource-efficient and low-carbon development.
Currently, in India we have 20,012 registered green building projects covering more than 16.33 billion sq. ft., across IGBC’s 33 Green and Net Zero rating systems. The movement spans approximately 41 lakh residential dwelling units, 11,770+ commercial projects, 1,320+ transit infrastructure projects, 985+ industrial buildings, 271 Net Zero projects and 190+ built environment projects.
Under the theme ‘Future-Ready Built Environment: Client Risk, Resilience & Business Value’, the programme focused on climate resilience, water security, high-performance buildings and the adoption of low-carbon construction materials. The discussions highlighted the need to integrate resilience and resource efficiency into the planning, design, development and operation of buildings and infrastructure.
Mr. K D Singh, Chairman, IGBC Noida Chapter and Managing Director, Aircon Engineers Pvt. Ltd, said:
“Climate resilience is no longer an option but an imperative for the future of our cities and built environment. As Noida continues to evolve as a leading hub for real estate and infrastructure, we must ensure that growth is supported by resource-efficient, resilient and future-ready development. Green Synergy Noida 2026 provides an important platform for government and industry to collaborate, exchange best practices and translate sustainability ambitions into actionable solutions.”
Mr. Nikhil Hawelia, Co Chairman, IGBC Noida Chapter and Managing Director, Hawelia Group, spoke on reimagining real estate by moving from sustainability towards resilience. “The real estate sector must now move beyond the question of whether a building is green to asking whether it is truly resilient and future-ready. With climate risks, water stress and extreme weather events increasingly shaping urban development, resilience must become an integral part of how we design, build and operate our assets. This is not simply a cost or compliance consideration—it is an investment in risk reduction, long-term asset value and customer trust. The developers who embrace resilience today will be the market leaders of tomorrow.”
The inaugural session, ‘Building a Future-Ready Built Environment: The New Imperative for Climate Resilience’, featured perspectives from government and industry. The inaugural session had a special address by Mr. Dinesh Gupta, President, CREDAI Western U.P & Managing Director, Samriddhi Group, said, “Climate resilience is fast becoming a defining factor for the future of real estate in NCR. With the region witnessing unprecedented growth, our responsibility is to ensure that the buildings and communities we create today remain efficient, resilient and valuable for decades to come. Sustainability is no longer a premium feature but a basic market expectation, and the way forward is to mainstream climate-resilient practices across every stage of development. At CREDAI Western UP, we believe that resilience is not a cost centre but a value-creation strategy that can strengthen both business performance and quality of life.”
Mr. Rohit Puri, Convenor, CII Western Uttar Pradesh – Government Affairs Panel and Director, APPL Packaging, said,
“Western Uttar Pradesh stands at the forefront of India’s next phase of economic growth, driven by world-class infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics and urban development. As the region scales new heights, competitiveness will increasingly depend on how effectively we manage climate risks, strengthen resource security and build resilience into every aspect of development. Sustainability is no longer merely an environmental consideration, it is a growth strategy that enhances productivity, attracts investment and secures long-term economic prosperity.”
A leadership panel on ‘Climate Risk, Water Security & Asset Value: Building Future-Ready Real Estate and Infrastructure’ examined how climate risk and water security were influencing investment decisions, urban planning and long-term asset performance. The panel featured Mr. Dharmendra Kumar Kamra, Former Member, Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India; Mr. Pankaj Varshney, Omaxe Group; Mr. Atul Saxena, Pacific Group; Gaurs Group; Mr. Mukund Kumar, Brookfield India Real Estate Trust; and Mr. Keshav Singhal, Noida International Airport.
The technical session, ‘Designing Buildings That Perform Under Climate Stress’, showcased solutions for improving building performance, occupant comfort and long-term resilience. Mr. Karanvir Singh, Saint-Gobain India, spoke on next-generation glass technology; Mr. Mohit Agarwal, Vinayak Industries, discussed high-performance reflective materials for net-zero buildings; and Mr. Ankit Magan, Retas Enviro Solutions Pvt Ltd, highlighted smart rainwater systems for water-positive infrastructure.
The programme also featured a special stakeholder consultation on ‘Accelerating the Acceptance of Low-Carbon Cement in India’s Built Environment’. The session examined the benefits, applications, market potential and life-cycle performance of low-carbon cement, with contributions from Ms. Shashikala Agrawal and Mr. Fattesinh Gaikwad of CII Green Business Centre.
The concluding stakeholder panel examined the technical, economic, market, regulatory and procurement barriers to low-carbon cement adoption. It featured Mr. Pankaj Khanna, Development Alternatives; Mr. Rajiv Sadavarti, Shree Cement; Mr. Ashish K Jain, AEON Integrated Building Design Consultants LLP; Mr. Sunil Kumar, Heidelberg Cement; and Ar Rahul Tyagi, Architects Association Noida, under the chairmanship of Mr. Sandeep Tandon, Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
Mr. Nilesh Kumar Rana, Deputy Director, CII—IGBC and Mr. Punit Agarwal, Senior Counsellor, CII—IGBC, set the context on climate resilience through
The event concluded with stakeholder consultations on barriers, opportunities and the way forward, reinforcing the importance of government-industry collaboration, climate resilience, water security and low-carbon construction in shaping a future-ready built environment for NCR and Western Uttar Pradesh.
4, Sep 2026
Medhavi Group Launches MedhaviOne to Build India’s Education-to-Employment Infrastructure; Amit Haralalka Joins as Co-Founder & CEO
- The new venture leverages Medhavi Group’s 14-year legacy to shift the paradigm from degree-first to skills-first, making formal degrees deeply industry-relevant.
- Amit Haralalka, formerly Head of Growth at Tata Digital, joins as Co-Founder & CEO to lead the venture.
NEW DELHI, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Medhavi Group today launched MedhaviOne, a platform built on shared standards for skills and credentials across education and employment. Amit Haralalka, formerly Head of Growth at Tata Digital, joins as Co-Founder and CEO, alongside group co-founders Pravesh Dudani and Kuldip Sarma.
A growing structural gap currently exists between what people learn, what industries need, and what employers trust as demonstrated capability. The rapid evolution of AI and new business models is shortening the shelf life of skills, demanding a shift from the sequential ‘education-then-work’ model to a continuous learning architecture. This is the gap MedhaviOne aims to address.
On the platform, institutions map programmes to live industry demand, enterprises participate directly in designing and validating capability, and individuals earn credentials that carry recognised value in the market. The architecture aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Credit Framework, and supports India’s larger ambition of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
“India’s demographic dividend will not be realised simply because we have one of the world’s largest young populations; it will be realised when young people can convert learning into upward mobility. That is what we have spent fourteen years learning how to do, and MedhaviOne now takes it to a larger scale. For a venture of this scale, we needed someone who understands both technology and human potential. Amit and I have known each other for years, and I have always admired his ability to build and scale complex businesses from the ground up,” said Pravesh Dudani, Founder of Medhavi Group, and Founder and Chancellor of Medhavi Skills University.
Amit Haralalka joins MedhaviOne following a long tenure at Tata Digital, as well as global experience across the US, China and India. An alumnus of IIM Lucknow with nearly two decades of experience, Haralalka specializes in scaling consumer-tech as well as enterprise platforms.
Amit Haralalka, Co-Founder and CEO of MedhaviOne, said, “Pravesh and Kuldip have built an incredible foundation over the years championing youth employability. My focus now is taking that deep institutional knowledge to a national scale. I view MedhaviOne as a critical piece of national infrastructure, and am honoured to lead this mission towards a truly Skills-First India, alongside this stellar team.”
In his new role, he will work closely alongside the co-founders and Group Chief Strategy Officer Devender Saini to realize MedhaviOne’s vision to build the infrastructure where India learns to work.
About MedhaviOne
MedhaviOne connects institutions, employers and learners through shared standards for skills and credentials. It enables institutions to align programmes with industry demand, employers to help design and validate capability, and individuals to earn recognised credentials to drive stronger career outcomes.
https://www.medhavione.com/
About Medhavi Group
Founded in 2012 by Pravesh Dudani and Kuldip Sarma, Medhavi Group has grown from grassroots skill development into an education, skills and employability ecosystem spanning higher education, apprenticeships and industry partnerships. The Group has reached over 6,50,000 learners nationwide and works with 600+ enterprise partners across 30+ sectors.
Partners include Hyundai, FIAT, Mahindra, Hero Motors, Motherson Group, MRF, Daikin, Quess Corp, BVG, NephroPlus, Chai Point, Barbeque Nation, Nexus Malls, IHG Hotels and Roseate Hotels. The ecosystem proudly partners with our esteemed defence organizations, such as Indian Air Force and Indian Navy, as well as EdTech platforms like Emversity and Polaris (Classplus).
Medhavi Skills University was ranked 4th among skills universities in the Outlook-ICARE Rankings 2025 and named Emerging University of the Year at the FE India Education Awards 2025.
For media queries, contact:
Astha Sheel | 9153963508 | astha.s@medhavione.com
Ansu Singh | 8927041929 | ansu.singh@dentsu.com
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4, Sep 2026
El Nino Raises Fresh Concerns as India Braces for Weak September Rains
New Delhi, Sep 4: India’s monsoon outlook has come under renewed pressure as strengthening El Nino conditions coincide with expectations of below-normal rainfall in September, raising concerns for agriculture, water resources and the broader rural economy.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast September rainfall at less than 91 per cent of the long-period average. The projection follows a weak August, when rainfall across the country was 16 per cent below normal.
The developing weather pattern is particularly important because September is a crucial month for crops that were sown during the southwest monsoon. Reduced rainfall at this stage could affect crops such as cotton, soybean, maize and pulses, while lower soil moisture may also create difficulties for farmers preparing to sow winter crops.
El Nino is adding to the uncertainty. The weather phenomenon, marked by warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, can disrupt global weather patterns and is often associated with drier conditions across parts of Asia. The IMD has indicated that El Nino conditions have strengthened and could influence the final phase of this year’s monsoon.
The implications extend beyond the farm sector. The monsoon supplies a large share of India’s annual rainfall and plays an important role in replenishing reservoirs, rivers and groundwater. With a significant portion of Indian agriculture still dependent on rainfall, a prolonged shortfall can affect farm incomes, food production and rural demand.
Lower rainfall could also put pressure on water availability in areas already experiencing deficient precipitation. Reservoir levels, irrigation requirements and drinking-water supplies could become more important concerns if the dry conditions persist.
The agricultural impact may be particularly significant because crops affected by August’s rainfall deficit are entering important stages of development. A further shortage of rain could increase the risk of lower yields, while insufficient soil moisture could complicate the planting of wheat, chickpea and rapeseed later in the year.
The weather outlook also comes against the backdrop of an unusually hot August. India recorded its warmest August since 1901, with the national mean temperature reaching 28.01 degrees Celsius, while rainfall during the month was among the lowest recorded since 2001.
For policymakers, the immediate focus will be on monitoring rainfall distribution rather than looking only at the national average. Rainfall can vary sharply between regions, and the impact on crops and water availability depends heavily on where and when the rain falls.
The possibility of a weaker September therefore adds another layer of uncertainty to India’s monsoon season. While it does not automatically point to a severe drought, continued rainfall shortages combined with strengthening El Nino conditions could increase pressure on agriculture, water management and rural economic activity.
With the monsoon entering its final stretch, the coming weeks will be critical. For farmers, reservoirs and policymakers alike, every spell of rainfall could make a significant difference to how India closes the 2026 monsoon season.
4, Sep 2026
India’s Data Centre Boom Signals a New Phase of Digital Growth
New Delhi, Sep 4: India’s fast-growing data centre industry is quietly becoming an important part of the country’s digital and economic transformation. Behind everyday activities such as online payments, video streaming, cloud applications, e-commerce and artificial intelligence services are large-scale facilities that store, process and manage vast amounts of data.
The country is witnessing a sharp rise in investment in data centre infrastructure as businesses and technology companies prepare for rapidly increasing demand for computing capacity. Domestic conglomerates, global technology firms and specialised operators have announced investments exceeding $250 billion, reflecting growing confidence in India’s digital economy.
The expansion is being driven by several factors, including rising internet usage, the rapid adoption of cloud services, digitalisation across businesses and the growing use of artificial intelligence. As companies generate more data and adopt increasingly sophisticated digital tools, the need for reliable computing infrastructure within India is also increasing.
Artificial intelligence is expected to become one of the biggest drivers of future demand. AI applications require significant computing power, particularly for training and running advanced models. As businesses across sectors begin using AI for customer service, financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and software development, demand for high-performance data centres is likely to increase.
Despite the scale of investment, the direct contribution of the sector to India’s overall GDP is expected to remain relatively modest. Moody’s Ratings estimates that data centre capital expenditure could add around 0.10 percentage point to nominal GDP during the construction phase in 2025, while related investment in power generation could contribute another 0.03 percentage point.
By 2030, the direct contribution of the data centre industry is projected to stabilise at around 0.13 per cent of GDP. The relatively limited contribution reflects the capital-intensive nature of the industry, where large investments are required but the number of permanent jobs created is comparatively small.
However, the wider economic impact could be considerably larger. Data centre projects generate demand for construction, electrical equipment, cooling systems, networking, security, engineering, maintenance and other specialised services. The expansion can also create opportunities for Indian manufacturers if a greater share of the equipment and components is produced domestically.
This localisation could become one of the most important benefits of the data centre boom. Building stronger domestic supply chains would allow India to retain more economic value from the investments while creating additional opportunities for manufacturing and technology companies.
Employment in the sector itself is expected to remain focused on specialised skills. Data centres require professionals in areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, network management, electrical engineering, artificial intelligence and facilities management. At the same time, the businesses that depend on this infrastructure could create much broader employment opportunities as digital services expand.
Power availability will remain another important consideration. Data centres operate continuously and require substantial electricity for computing and cooling. Moody’s expects the sector to account for less than 5 per cent of India’s electricity demand by 2030, suggesting that it is unlikely to create a nationwide power constraint. However, reliable transmission and distribution infrastructure around major data centre clusters will be essential.
The growing demand for electricity could also encourage investment in renewable energy, energy storage and more efficient cooling technologies as companies seek to manage operating costs and reduce environmental impact.
The benefits of the data centre boom are also likely to be felt at the city and state level. Locations offering reliable power, strong internet connectivity, skilled workers and favourable business conditions are increasingly competing to attract large projects. New data centre clusters can bring investment into supporting infrastructure while creating demand for engineering, construction and technology services.
India’s data centre expansion, therefore, is about much more than building large facilities filled with servers. These centres provide the foundation for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, digital payments, online commerce, software services and a growing range of technology-driven businesses.
The immediate contribution to GDP may appear modest, but the longer-term opportunity could be much bigger if India succeeds in developing local suppliers, skilled talent, reliable energy networks and innovative digital businesses around the sector.
For India, the real value of the data centre boom will ultimately be measured not only by how much infrastructure is built, but by how effectively that infrastructure helps businesses grow, technology develops and the country strengthens its position in the global digital economy.
4, Sep 2026
Health Ministry Unveils SUMAN Roadmap 2030 to Accelerate Maternal and Newborn Care
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare convened a two-day national workshop in Lucknow on September 2–3 to advance the implementation of SUMAN Roadmap 2030, with the objective of accelerating progress towards zero preventable maternal and newborn deaths. Held under the chairpersonship of Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, National Health Mission, the workshop brought together more than 200 participants, including senior health officials from States and Union Territories, experts, academics, professional bodies and development partners.
Addressing the inaugural session, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Shri Brajesh Pathak stressed the importance of registering newly married couples as an early intervention to prevent unintended pregnancies and promote planned and healthy pregnancies. Smt. Patnaik said India has made considerable progress in reducing maternal mortality but highlighted the need for sustained efforts, particularly in States with high maternal mortality ratios and in vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas. She said the SUMAN roadmap places safety, dignity and quality healthcare at the centre of the maternal health journey.
The roadmap follows a life-course and continuum-of-care model, covering healthcare interventions from the pre-pregnancy stage through antenatal, delivery and postnatal care. Its strategy is divided into two components: one specifically targeting 13 high-focus States and 130 districts with a disproportionate burden of maternal and newborn deaths, and another covering all States and Union Territories to sustain progress towards Sustainable Development Goal targets. The workshop examined issues including high-risk pregnancies, postpartum haemorrhage, Caesarean-section services, community interventions, Birth Waiting Homes, digital health, grievance redressal and the impact of climate change on maternal health. Guidelines on Birth Waiting Homes, communication material and a video on SUMAN Roadmap 2030 were also launched.
The meeting also gave States an opportunity to present their priorities, implementation challenges and proposed solutions, while a Gallery Walk showcased field innovations from across the country, including maternal health interventions and digital initiatives. Representatives from WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF, Gates Foundation, Jhpiego, FOGSI, C3 and CIFF participated in the discussions and reiterated their support for the programme. Through technical sessions and group exercises, participants worked on practical solutions for high-risk pregnancy management, pre-pregnancy care, postpartum haemorrhage and Caesarean-section services. The Ministry said the deliberations would help translate the SUMAN Roadmap 2030 into measurable action and strengthen the national effort to eliminate preventable maternal and newborn deaths by 2030.
4, Sep 2026
Haier Announces Global Partnership with UEFA Champions League
New brand building milestone deepens Haier’s global consumer connections
BERLIN, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Haier, the world’s No.1 major home appliances brand, today announced a global partnership with UC3, under which Haier will become a Global Partner of the UEFA Champions League from the 2027/28 season through the 2030/31 season.
The four-year partnership, running from July 1, 2027 to June 30, 2031, grants Haier exclusive worldwide rights in the home appliances, televisions and commercial display screens categories across a range of UEFA club competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.
More than a commercial sponsorship, the collaboration outlines Haier’s transition from a globally recognized appliances company towards developing a deeper relationship with consumers worldwide.
“This partnership represents a key milestone in Haier’s global brand strategy,” said Wang Meiyan, Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of Haier Group. “The UEFA Champions League brings together millions of fans around the world through a shared pursuit of excellence. Through this collaboration, we aim to bring the passion and spirit of champions closer to consumers’ everyday life, creating new possibilities through intelligent technologies.”
“We are delighted to welcome Haier as a new global partner of the UEFA Champions League. Its international presence, ability to innovate and ambition to create increasingly relevant experiences for people make Haier an ideal partner for the competition. Together, we aim to develop new opportunities to engage fans around the world and bring them even closer to our competitions, while celebrating the emotion, excellence and sense of belonging that make European football unique,” said Guy-Laurent Epstein Co-Managing Director, UC3.
From Global Recognition to Global Connection
Upon entering international markets in 1991, Haier was among the earliest Chinese companies to pursue global growth by building its own brands rather than relying on product exports. Over the decades, Haier has established a strong local presence across more than 200 countries and regions, with leading positions in over 30 markets.
This global presence is supported by a network of 10 R&D centers, 35 industrial parks and 173 manufacturing centers worldwide. By combining global capabilities with local insights, Haier develops products, solutions and experiences tailored to consumers’ diverse needs across markets.
This approach has driven sustained global recognition. Haier has ranked as the world’s No.1 major appliances brand by retail volume for 17 consecutive years and has been recognized among the Kantar BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands for eight consecutive years.
Building on this track record, Haier will continue to strengthen its presence in premium markets while developing brands, products and solutions that respond to evolving consumer expectations and create new possibilities for intelligent living.
Leading Through Technology, Connecting Through Sports
Technology has long been a key driver of Haier’s global development. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into products, connected scenarios and smart living ecosystems, Haier is expanding from individual product innovation towards more integrated experiences across the home.
The interconnection between technological development in everyday lives and the cultural centrality of sport provides a powerful platform for closer relationships with consumers. For more than two decades, Haier has developed a global sports partnership portfolio spanning leading football clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool Football Club, as well as major international sporting events including the Australian Open and Roland-Garros.
Over the years, Haier’s sports marketing has evolved from building brand visibility to creating deeper consumer connections through global sports partnerships and locally relevant experiences. Beyond football and established international sporting events, Haier has expanded its sports portfolio across markets, including badminton, marathon running, cricket and basketball.
The partnership with UEFA club competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Youth League Finals and UEFA Futsal Champions League Finals, represents the next stage of this journey. By bringing together the passion and excellence of elite football with the possibilities of intelligent living, Haier aims to create experiences that extend beyond the stadium and become part of consumers’ everyday lives.
Unveiled during IFA 2026 in Berlin, one of the world’s leading consumer electronics and home appliance exhibitions, the partnership reinforces Haier’s commitment to building stronger connections with consumers worldwide. Together with the UEFA Champions League, Haier will connect the spirit of champions with intelligent living, creating new experiences for consumers and fans around the world.
ABOUT HAIER GROUP
Founded in 1984, Haier Group is a leading global provider of better life and digital transformation solutions, with the purpose of “More Creation, More Possibilities”. The company has established 10 R&D centers, 35 industrial parks and 173 manufacturing centers, achieving a global revenue of USD 59.8 billion in 2025. Haier has been ranked in the Kantar BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands for 8 consecutive years. Additionally, Haier has held the No.1 position in Euromonitor International Global Major Appliances Brand for 17 consecutive years. Haier has 8 listed companies, with its subsidiary Haier Smart Home named among the Fortune Global 500 and Fortune World’s Most Admired Companies.
ABOUT UC3
UC3 unites European football’s governing body UEFA and European Football Clubs (EFC), representing more than 800 top European clubs, around a new vision for managing commercial rights to UEFA club competitions (the “UCCs”). It is the commercial entity responsible for generating revenues from the UCCs and creating value for our partners. UC3 oversees the management, sales and delivery of all commercial rights (including media, sponsorship and licensing rights) for UEFA’s elite men’s and women’s club competitions.
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4, Sep 2026
NIELIT, Intel India Roll Out Agentic AI Programmes to Build India’s Future-Ready Workforce
India’s workforce is set to receive a new skilling push in emerging Artificial Intelligence technologies, with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) and Intel India launching a joint initiative focused on Agentic AI. The programme was announced at a National Leadership Dialogue in New Delhi that brought together policymakers, educators, industry representatives and skilling experts to examine how rapidly advancing AI systems are changing the requirements of jobs and education.
The dialogue placed particular emphasis on the transition from conventional and generative AI to agentic systems that can reason, plan and carry out complex tasks while operating under human oversight. Participants discussed the need to move beyond theoretical AI education towards practical, industry-linked learning, including updated curricula, faculty development, experiential training and AI-enabled learning environments. Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification, said continuous learning and employability would become increasingly important as technology transforms workplaces, while stressing the value of real-world exposure for young professionals.
The partnership has introduced two skilling tracks with different levels of technical focus. Agentic AI for Everyone is designed to familiarise learners with AI agents, workflow automation and multi-agent systems, using no-code platforms to explore productivity, business transformation and intelligent decision-making. The second programme, Engineering Agentic AI Systems, is aimed at learners seeking deeper technical capabilities, covering agent architecture, tool integration, orchestration, memory and deployment through no-code, low-code and coding-based frameworks. Together, the programmes are intended to provide learners with hands-on experience in developing and using agentic systems.
NIELIT Director General Dr. Madan Mohan Tripathi said the collaboration combines NIELIT’s nationwide reach with Intel’s technology expertise to take emerging AI education to more institutions and learners. Shri Sudeep Shrivastava, COO of the IndiaAI Mission and Joint Secretary, MeitY, highlighted the importance of developing a strong AI talent pipeline through industry-led training, AI-focused educational programmes, AI Data Labs and closer industry-academia engagement. Intel also stressed that skills, adaptability and human judgment will remain critical as AI systems become more capable. The initiative is expected to widen access to practical Agentic AI training and strengthen India’s talent base for an increasingly AI-driven economy.
4, Sep 2026
Goyal Pushes Nationwide FTA Drive to Take Indian Exports to Global Markets
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has called for a nationwide campaign to ensure that Indian businesses make greater use of the country’s expanding network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Speaking at a national workshop on leveraging FTAs in New Delhi, Goyal said the benefits of preferential market access must reach businesses at the grassroots, including MSMEs, startups, traders, first-time exporters and women entrepreneurs across all 780 districts. He said wider FTA utilisation would be critical to expanding India’s global trade footprint and supporting the country’s long-term ambition of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047.
The Minister pointed to India’s recent economic performance, including 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter, as evidence of the economy’s resilience amid global uncertainty. He said India’s nine existing FTAs cover economies accounting for around $60 trillion in GDP and offer preferential access to nearly two-thirds of global trade. With additional agreements and market-access initiatives under consideration, India could gain preferential access to about 75% of global trade at more competitive tariff rates, he said. Goyal stressed that the effectiveness of an FTA should ultimately be judged by how Indian exporters fare against competitors in the same markets.
India is targeting $1 trillion in exports this year, with exports touching nearly $317 billion during the first four months, up from about $280 billion in the same period last year. Goyal said sectors ranging from textiles and engineering to electronics, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agriculture, marine products, gems and jewellery and leather have significant potential in international markets. He also called for stronger institutional support to help exporters overcome challenges related to standards, sanitary and technical requirements, regulatory approvals and logistics. The government, he said, must particularly ensure that smaller exporters are not left behind as new trade opportunities emerge.
Goyal also outlined a last-mile strategy to convert FTAs into actual export growth. States have been asked to identify products and clusters where FTA benefits are already visible as well as areas where opportunities remain untapped. He urged Export Promotion Councils and industry associations to expand their outreach to smaller businesses, provide information in local languages and bring more exporters into international trade delegations. The workshop also examined the Export Promotion Mission and Districts as Export Hubs, with state-level discussions focused on export clusters, barriers to FTA utilisation and required government support. The Centre said the broader effort aims to deepen Centre-State coordination and ensure the country’s trade agreements translate into jobs, foreign exchange earnings, and wider participation in global commerce.
