26, Dec 2025
Farmland Emerges as a Lifestyle-Aligned Investment Choice in India
In India, the conversation around land is changing. People are no longer looking at ownership purely through a returns-driven lens. Families are thinking about their children’s future, elderly buyers are seeking open and peaceful environments, and working professionals want spaces where they can step away from the pace of city life.
Farmland is increasingly fulfilling all these needs. What stands out is the balance it offers, real ownership without daily operational complexity, along with the flexibility to engage as much or as little as one chooses. This makes it especially relevant for modern buyers who want land to add value to their lives, not responsibility.
We’re also seeing strong interest in and around Bangalore, where infrastructure, cultural inclusivity, and long-term economic opportunities come together. The region supports both active careers and future retirement planning, making it a natural choice for farmland ownership.
Interestingly, a growing number of buyers are under 30 and even first-time investors. Coming from families that already own multiple urban properties, they are consciously choosing farmland as a more meaningful, calming, and future-ready asset. As we look toward 2026, farmland is clearly evolving into a resilient and lifestyle-aligned investment class.
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- By Neel Achary
26, Dec 2025
CIMP Hosts Agri Udaan 8.0 to Empower Agri-Startups in Bihar
Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna (CIMP) hosted the Agri Udaan 8.0 Food and Agribusiness Accelerator Roadshow/Start-up Hunt, organised by The Association for Innovation Development of Entrepreneurship in Agriculture (a-IDEA) and ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Hyderabad on 23rd December 2025 (Tuesday) at its CIMP campus.
The inaugural session commenced with the felicitation of all dignitaries with bouquets, followed by the rendition of “Vande-Mataram,” and lighting of lamp. The welcome address was delivered by Shri. Kumod Kumar, CAO, CIMP and Director & CEO, CIMP-BIIF said
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the dignitaries, students, faculty members, and staff for their presence and support. The Agri Udaan – 8.0 Roadshow marks a significant step in empowering agri-startups, fostering innovation, and creating new opportunities in the agricultural ecosystem. Together, we are building a future where ideas take flight and transform Indian agriculture.”
The chief guest was Shri Pankaj Kumar, I.A.S., Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Govt. of Bihar. He said
“I reaffirm my strong commitment to the agricultural sector and emphasise the importance of collaboration and the adoption of new technologies to modernise agriculture and generate employment. I deeply appreciate the farmers engaged in makhana, pulses, and other agricultural activities, and I firmly believe that agriculture holds immense potential to create large-scale employment opportunities in Bihar.”
The host and speaker of the event was Dr. Ranjit Kumar, CEO, a-IDEA & Principal Scientist, ICAR-NAARM; Dr. Ranjit said
“This event is not only about disseminating information across the state, but also about helping everyone understand that there is an organisation ready to handhold startups working in this domain. At a-IDEA, we are seeking more applications from across the state.”
The guest of honour were Shri Pankaj Kumar, I.A.S. Principal Secretary Department of Agriculture, Govt. of Bihar, Shri Lakshman Kumar, Dr. Indu Shekhar Singh In-Charge & Principal Scientist, ICAR-NRC for Makhana, Darbhanga,.
Prof. (Dr.) Rana Singh, Director, CIMP said,
“I want to highlight the importance of revenue generation for startups, with an 80:20 focus on revenue and investment. Branding, marketing, packaging, and the effective use of social media are critical in scaling agri-businesses and attracting investors.”
Nitish Kumar a Founder and CEO of Bhojpatra, Agripreneur Pvt. Ltd., shared his entrepreneurial journey and explained how Agri Udaan supported him through mentorship, networking, and institutional guidance.
Dr. Indu Sekhar Singh from ICAR–NRC for Makhana discussed the growth of the makhana industry in Bihar, noting that Purnia has emerged as a leading hub and that around 35 makhana-based startups are currently operating in the state.
Shri Lakshman Kumar briefly spoke about the objectives of Agri Udaan and the contribution of agriculture to the country’s GDP. He emphasized that even small innovative ideas can lead to successful businesses, such as creating new variants of makhana through value addition. He introduced the Catalytic Capital Fund, which has been created to support new startups. Through Rural Incubation Centres, startups can receive investment support of up to one crore rupees along with mentorship.
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, felicitation of dignitaries, and the National Anthem, marking the successful completion of Agri Udaan – 8.0.
26, Dec 2025
United Way Bengaluru’s One Billion Drops Campaign Wins SABERA Awards 2025 in Environment & Consumption Category
Dec 26: United Way Bengaluru’s flagship water stewardship initiative, One Billion Drops (OBD), has been honoured with the SABERA Awards 2025 in the Environment & Consumption category, reaffirming its leadership in driving sustainable water conservation through collective action.
The SABERA Awards, recognised as South Asia’s most credible awards for brand-building, reputation management, and purpose-led communication, celebrate initiatives that create meaningful social and environmental impact while demonstrating excellence in strategy and execution.
The One Billion Drops campaign was recognised for its sustained, scalable, and collaborative approach to addressing India’s growing water crisis. By mobilising corporates, communities, government bodies, and civil society, the campaign has focused on water conservation, rejuvenation of water bodies, groundwater recharge, and responsible water consumption, creating measurable impact across urban and rural landscapes.
The award was received by Mr. Radhakrishna Pradeep, Senior Manager – Climate Action & Partnerships, United Way Bengaluru, along with Mr. Muniraju, a well digger from the Bovi community and a resident of Bovipalya, Karnataka. Today, nearly 120 families from the community are engaged with the initiative. With over 10,000 rainwater harvesting wells created in the city of Bengaluru, One Billion Drops has emerged as a milestone initiative contributing to India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat.
Since its inception, the campaign has enabled the harvesting, replenishment, and conservation of millions of litres of water annually, while also building awareness around water-positive practices among citizens and institutions. Its integrated model combines on-ground action with advocacy, volunteer engagement, and long-term ecosystem partnerships.
The award underscores United Way Bengaluru’s commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, through innovative, inclusive, and impact-driven programmes.
United Way Bengaluru continues to work closely with corporates, civic authorities, and local communities to expand the reach of One Billion Drops, ensuring long-term water sustainability and climate resilience for future generations.
26, Dec 2025
Ashis Chattopadhyay Named Cluster Director of Finance at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
Mumbai, Dec 26: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar announces the appointment of Ashis Chattopadhyay as Cluster Director of Finance. In this role, Ashis will lead the finance function for eight Marriott hotels under Chalet Hotels Limited, overseeing financial strategy, governance, compliance, and performance across the cluster. With over two decades of experience, he brings strong financial stewardship and a disciplined, outcome-oriented approach to multi-property operations.
Ashis began his career with Deloitte, gaining extensive experience in audit and advisory services. His professional journey includes senior finance roles with global hospitality brands such as Four Seasons, Hyatt, COMO Group, and Marriott International, where he has successfully driven financial transformation, strengthened internal controls, and enhanced operational efficiencies. Prior to this appointment, he served as Multi-Property Director of Finance for Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway and Four Points Kochi, Infopark.
Ashis’ leadership has been recognised through several regional and market-level accolades, including awards for finance transformation and technology adoption in South Asia, reflecting his focus on modernising finance operations while maintaining robust governance.
Driven by a strong belief in disciplined leadership and continuous improvement, Ashis is passionate about developing high-performing teams and future-focused finance functions. His appointment reinforces JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar’s commitment to excellence, governance, and long-term value creation across the cluster.
26, Dec 2025
Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Expands in Himachal Pradesh with 43-Key Regenta Place Golden Castle, Baddi
Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Signs 43-Key Regenta Place Golden Castle in Baddi, Strengthening Presence in Himachal Pradesh
Bengaluru, Dec 26: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, is expanding its footprint in North India with the signing of a new 43-key property, Regenta Place Golden Castle, in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Baddi is widely known as Asia’s largest pharmaceutical hub.
The property is strategically located on the Baddi Nalagarh Road, NH-105, and will operate under a Management Agreement, aligning with the group’s asset-light expansion strategy. Regenta Place Golden Castle is designed to be the perfect base for business travelers, as well as those planning social events like weddings.
Property Details and Features
The Regenta Place Golden Castle offers 43 spacious and well-appointed rooms, featuring modern amenities like LED TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, electronic safe, and mini-bar. The room categories include:
- Suite Rooms (600 sq. ft., 2 units, with bathtub and hill view)
- Super Deluxe Rooms (350 sq. ft., 23 units, with roadside view)
- Deluxe Rooms (320 sq. ft., 9 units, with pleasing view of Hills)
- Executive Rooms (250 sq. ft., 9 units, with pleasing view of the lawn)
Key facilities and services include:
- PINXX: A multi-cuisine restaurant located on the Ground Floor, offering Indian, Chinese, and Continental options.
- Sky Bar and Lounge: An open terrace bar and restaurant.
- Two Banquet halls (Orchid and Orchid-1), and one Meeting room.
- An expansive Lawn spanning 12,000 sq. ft., ideal for weddings and social gatherings.
- Other amenities: Swimming Pool, Spa, 24-hour in-room dining, and High-Speed WIFI.
The property provides smooth connectivity, situated just 2 km from the Baddi Bus stand, 27 km from the Chandigarh Railway station, and 50 km from the Chandigarh Airport.
Speaking on the strategic signing, Mr. Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, said:
“Baddi’s status as a major industrial and pharmaceutical hub makes it a key market for our business traveler segment. The signing of Regenta Place Golden Castle reinforces our strategy to establish a reliable, high-quality presence in important regional centers across North India, offering world-class service combined with exceptional comfort and value.”
26, Dec 2025
IGP turns Secret Santa chaos into a product-led Christmas campaign
As the season of carols, cheer and celebration filled the air, IGP, a global D2C multi category gifting platform, unveiled its festive campaign ‘Tis the Season of Gifting’, an idea rooted in why people gift and the shared moments that define December. As families reunite, friends reconnect and teams come together to celebrate milestones at work, the campaign positions gifting as an act of intention, one that acknowledges relationships, deepens bonds and creates moments that stay long after the season ends. The idea shapes IGP’s Christmas presence this year, guiding how the brand shows up across experiences, technology and collaborations.
One of the most common expressions of gifting during Christmas is Secret Santa, especially across offices and friend circles. While the tradition brings excitement and anticipation, it is often accompanied by confusion around participant coordination, name draws, fairness, reminders and last minute chaos, taking away from the joy of the experience. Recognising this recurring festive challenge, IGP identified an opportunity to simplify how groups gift together during Christmas.
As part of the campaign, IGP launched Find My Santa, its in house Secret Santa generator designed to bring structure and ease to group gifting. Built for offices, families and friend circles, the tool enables automated and fair randomised pairing, wishlist creation, reveal and assign date scheduling, and automated reminders, eliminating manual coordination. With this launch, IGP strengthens its evolving gifting ecosystem by addressing not just what people gift, but also how groups experience gifting together.
Bringing the campaign to life on ground, IGP also took the festive spirit directly into workplaces through an immersive Christmas pop up experience at the Office Atrium, Times Square. The activation witnessed a footfall of over 10,000 employees across two days, transforming the office atrium into a lively Christmas destination. Employees were able to explore a curated range of Christmas cakes and desserts, festive gift hampers, decor, ornaments and other seasonal bestsellers, making it easy to discover and shop for Secret Santa and Christmas gifts within the workplace itself.
A key highlight of the pop up was IGP’s on the spot personalisation technology, one of the strongest gifting trends this year. Through IGP’s in house personalisation machines, visitors added names, messages and custom details in real time, transforming everyday gifts into thoughtful keepsakes. The festive atmosphere was further amplified through Christmas decor installations, a themed photobooth, Santa Claus meet and greet, lucky draws and festive offers, creating shared moments of joy at the workplace.
Commenting on the campaign, Tarun Joshi, Founder and CEO, IGP, said,
“With ‘Tis the Season of Gifting’, we wanted to bring the focus back to why people gift. December naturally brings people together at home, with friends and at work, and gifting becomes a way to acknowledge shared moments and relationships. Our campaign is built on the belief that thoughtful gestures create lasting emotional connections.”
As part of the Christmas campaign, IGP collaborated with like minded brands and organisations to extend festive cheer beyond commercial spaces. In a digital collaboration with Chumbak, the brand hosted a Christmas giveaway on social media featuring festive hampers curated by both brands. In a purpose led collaboration with Goodfellows, IGP will partner with the organisation to bring Christmas cheer to senior citizens through curated gifting at events in Mumbai and Pune, reinforcing IGP’s belief in gifting as an emotional expression.
Through ‘Tis the Season of Gifting’, IGP reinforces that Christmas is not just about exchanging gifts, but about celebrating relationships, acknowledging moments and spreading joy through thoughtful gestures.
26, Dec 2025
HPWWI Convocates Its First-Ever Women Batch in the Woodworking Sector
Faridabad, Dec 26: The Hettich Poddar WoodWorking Institute (HPWWI) held the Convocation and Award Ceremony for their first-ever batch of women trainees in Woodworking , marking a key moment in women’s participation within the Woodworking and furniture and fittings sector , as this is also India’s first Girls batch in this sector.
Held at Hotel Park Plaza, Faridabad, the ceremony recognised 108 graduating students, including 50 women trainees, who completed HPWWI’s three-month Short-Term Training (STT – Mobilized) programme. For many of the women graduates, the programme represented their first formal entry into a highly technical and traditionally male-dominated trade, thus girls were given the “Ice Breaker Award’ for the courage shown by them.
The initiative reflects HPWWI’s belief that access to technical skills should not be limited by gender, and that expanding women’s participation is essential to building a more inclusive, resilient, and future-ready workforce. By creating an industry-aligned environment, HPWWI aims to open sustainable career pathways for women while bridging the skill gaps within the woodworking ecosystem.
The ceremony was graced by Mr. Amit Prasad, Director HPWWI and Chief Human Resources Officer, Hettich India, as Guest of Honour. In his address, he emphasized the significance of structured, industry-aligned pathways for skilling.
“At HPWWI, our objective is not just skill creation, but inclusive skill creation. By enabling women to enter technical trades through structured training and real industry exposure, we are working towards a more balanced and future-ready workforce – one where opportunity is driven by capability, not convention,” he said.
Graduates received certifications recognised by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the Furniture and Fitting Skill Council (FFSC). Along with HPWWI certification the awards included the Medal of Merit, and the Ice Breaker Award, as already stated.
The program’s curriculum combines skill enhancement with the latest woodworking trends, techniques, and technologies, delivered by highly experienced trainers. Trainees receive extensive hands-on exposure, including training on modern machine handling such as CNCs and pneumatic tools, ensuring strong industry readiness.
Reflecting HPWWI’s strong industry connect, 15 to 20 students received on-the-spot offer letters from placement partners such as StudioKon Ventures Pvt. Ltd., Decora Kitchen Interiors Pvt. Ltd., Delbergia, Wudley, Mobel Grace, among others.
The cohort included students hailing from Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, with 30 trainees from underprivileged backgrounds, underlining HPWWI’s CSR-led focus on widening access to skill development and employment. Operating across three centres in India located in Mumbai, Faridabad, and Kolkata, HPWWI continues to strengthen the Woodworking and furniture and fittings ecosystem through structured programmes focused on skilling, upskilling, and reskilling, in collaboration with NSDC, FFSC, ITIs, PBSSD, and industry partners, in support of the Skill India Mission.
Also present with their active participation and words of gratitude on the occasion, were industry partners such as Canadian Wood, Biesse, Rehau, Felder, Imos, WoodTech, SS Coatings, and Groz Tools.
The event proved to be a success with the effort of Deepak Sharma, Deputy Director and his core team of Trainers namely Kulwant Jangra, Jyoti Ashutosh, and Swapnil Verma.
The convocation highlighted how focused, hands-on training and industry collaboration can translate into sustainable livelihood opportunities and employment outcomes, while steadily increasing women’s participation in the Woodworking sector.
26, Dec 2025
GIRI to Host Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale at Mylapore, Chennai
Five-day spiritual exhibition to showcase authentic Shalagramas and traditional sacred offerings
CHENNAI,Dec 26: Following the successful Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale held in Salem, GIRI, India’s leading omnichannel retailer for spiritual and cultural products, is set to host the Shalagrama Expo-Cum-Sale at its iconic GIRI Traders showroom in Mylapore, Chennai. The spiritually significant five-day exhibition will take place from December 26th to 30th, 2025, offering devotees a rare opportunity to access certified, authentic Shalagramas along with expert guidance.
Held during the auspicious occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, the expo provides devotees a deeply spiritual time to seek divine blessings and reaffirm their devotion to Lord Vishnu.
The Shalagrama Darshan Expo is designed to help devotees understand the origin, identification, and spiritual importance of Shalagramas, revered as the non-anthropomorphic manifestations of Lord Vishnu. Traditionally believed to bestow divine protection, harmony, prosperity, and spiritual well-being, Shalagramas hold a sacred place in Hindu worship, particularly within Vaishnavite traditions.
Visitors to the expo will have the opportunity to deepen their spiritual understanding, seek expert insights, and bring home authentic Shalagramas sourced and certified with utmost care. The initiative reflects GIRI’s continued commitment to preserving ancient spiritual traditions while making them accessible to today’s devotees.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms Sharada Prakash said, “Mylapore has always been the spiritual heart of Chennai. Hosting the Shalagrama Expo here is deeply meaningful for us. For generations, GIRI has served as a trusted bridge between devotees and authentic spiritual traditions. Acquiring a Shalagrama is a sacred and personal act of faith, and through this expo, we ensure that devotees receive genuine, certified Shalagramas with proper guidance, enabling them to invite the blessings of Lord Vishnu into their homes for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.”
GIRI warmly invites spiritual seekers, families, devotees, and scholars from Chennai and neighbouring regions to attend this spiritually enriching event and reconnect with one of Hinduism’s most ancient and powerful traditions.
24, Dec 2025
Kärcher India Highlights Industrial Cleaning Innovations at TECH VAPI 2025
Vapi, Gujarat, Dec 24: Kärcher India, a global leader in cleaning technology, participated in the 11th edition of TECH VAPI 2025, held from 18 to 20 December at VIA Ground, Vapi. The industrial technology exhibition brought together manufacturers, SMEs, and solution providers from across the Vapi–Silvassa–Daman industrial belt, serving as a strong platform for B2B engagement and technology exchange.
At the exhibition, Kärcher India showcased a comprehensive portfolio of professional cleaning solutions designed to address the diverse requirements of industrial, manufacturing, facility management, and commercial environments. The display highlighted Kärcher’s strength as a total solutions provider, offering efficient, durable, and application-specific technologies.
The showcased range included ride-on and walk-behind scrubber dryers such as the B 90 R and BD 43/40, suited for effective cleaning of large and medium-sized floor areas. High-pressure cleaning solutions like the HD 10/25 demonstrated Kärcher’s capability in handling heavy-duty industrial cleaning tasks, including the removal of stubborn dirt and grease.
Kärcher also presented deep-cleaning and maintenance solutions, including the Puzzi 10/1 spray extraction cleaner for carpets and upholstery, the NT 75/2 Tact² wet and dry vacuum cleaner for large volumes of dust and liquids, and the T 15/1 dry vacuum cleaner known for its robust and quiet operation. Compact solutions such as the KM 70/20 manual sweeper, BR 30/4 scrubber dryer, and the SG 4/4 steam cleaner further demonstrated Kärcher’s versatile product ecosystem.
Commenting on the participation, Malay Joshi, Branch Manager, Kärcher India, said,
“TECH VAPI offers an excellent opportunity to engage with industrial customers and understand their evolving cleaning challenges. At Kärcher, we remain committed to delivering high-performance, reliable solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and hygiene across industrial operations.”
Kärcher’s participation at TECH VAPI 2025 reinforced its commitment to supporting Indian industries with innovative and sustainable cleaning solutions, while strengthening its presence within one of Gujarat’s most important industrial clusters.
24, Dec 2025
Celebrate the Magic of Christmas Gifting with Avon’s Thoughtful & Festive Combo Sets
Make gifting magical this Christmas with Avon’s combo sets designed to delight. Wrapped in elegance and infused with irresistible fragrances and self-care essentials, these curated sets make the perfect holiday surprise for everyone on your list. Celebrate the season with beauty, joy and a touch of Avon glamour.
Make This Christmas Feel Seductive with Avon Imari Seduction Body Fragrance Combo
This festive season, unwrap the magic of allure with Avon’s Imari Seduction Body Fragrance Combo, the perfect gift for someone who loves sensorial beauty rituals. Featuring a Perfumed Skin Softener infused with an oriental fruity scent and a Roll-On Deodorant for all-day freshness, this duo layers comfort with irresistible fragrance. Notes of wild berries, patchouli and vanilla bean create a captivating trail making every moment feel luxury-wrapped and unforgettable. The perfect holiday indulgence for someone who deserves to feel confident, sensual and unforgettable.
Give the Gift of Timeless Elegance with Avon’s Little Black Dress Combo Set
This Christmas, celebrate sophistication with the iconic Avon’s Little Black Dress Combo, crafted for the woman who defines effortless glam. Infused with enchanting floral and oriental notes of honeysuckle, ylang-ylang and milkwood, this set delivers lasting freshness and a soft, lingering scent. With a non-greasy body lotion for silky hydration and a smooth roll-on deodorant offering 24-hour protection, it’s the perfect beauty essential for every occasion from holiday brunches to midnight soirees. A gift that feels classic, confident and beautifully unforgettable.
