27, Jan 2026
Unity, Discipline and Nation-Building: 77th Republic Day Celebrated with Dignity at ECL Headquarters
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- By Neel Achary
27, Jan 2026
Data Privacy Emerges as a Core Risk Imperative for BFSI Amid Rising Breach Costs and Shadow AI Threats
By: Anuj Khurana, Co-founder & CEO, Anaptyss
“In an increasingly digital world, data privacy has moved beyond being a compliance checkbox to becoming a core business and risk imperative with direct financial impact. In 2025, the average cost of a data breach has risen to approximately USD 4.4 million, with financial services institutions facing even higher exposure- often exceeding USD 5.5-6.0 million per incident- given the sensitivity of their data and the complexity of their ecosystems.
Across the global BFSI landscape, threat vectors continue to evolve. Phishing and supply-chain compromises remain persistent drivers of breaches, but a newer and fast-emerging risk is the ungoverned use of AI, often referred to as ‘Shadow AI’. In India, Shadow AI already ranks among the top three contributors to breach costs, underscoring a broader global trend where the pace of AI adoption is outstripping security, governance, and regulatory controls.
At Anaptyss, we see this convergence of data privacy, cybersecurity, and financial crime risk as a defining challenge for the industry. BFSI organizations can no longer afford to manage privacy, compliance, and financial crime controls in silos. Modern risk and compliance architectures must be engineered with privacy-by-design at their core- embedding data classification, lineage and provenance tracking, access governance, model explainability, and lifecycle management directly into AML, fraud detection, and risk analytics platforms.
By aligning data governance with real-time risk intelligence and resilient operating controls, financial institutions can not only reduce privacy breach exposure but also strengthen their defenses against financial crime. On this Data Privacy Day, the message is clear: responsible data and AI governance is no longer optional- it is foundational to trust, resilience, and sustainable innovation in the financial services ecosystem.”
27, Jan 2026
Modern Diagnostic IPO Subscribed Nearly 350.49 Times, Reflecting Strong Investor Confidence
Modern Diagnostic & Research Centre, a leading diagnostic chain, has successfully concluded its Initial Public Offering (IPO), raising ₹36.89 crore, which received an exceptional response from investors across categories. The issue was oversubscribed by a staggering 350.49 times at the close of the oversubscription period, which shows the market’s confidence in the company’s growth strategy and business model.
The IPO, which was open for subscription from Wednesday, December 31, 2025, closed on January 2, 2026, had its allotment of shares completed on Monday, January 5, 2026. The allotment status for the same was made available on the BSE website or on the registrar’s website, MUFG Intime India. The public issue consisted of a fresh issue of 4.1 million equity shares, aggregating ₹38.49 crore, offered in a price band of ₹85 to ₹90 per equity share with a lot size of 1,600 equity shares. Modern Diagnostic shares also commenced trading on the BSE SME exchange on January 7, 2026.
Modern Diagnostic & Research Centre was founded by Dr. D.S. Yadav, CMD, with an esteemed & rich heritage of quality diagnostics since inception, opening operations at New Railway Road, Gurugram, in 1985, with an impressive journey of more than four decades, earning the organization a pioneering name in quality pathology, as well as quality imaging, with a capacity to conduct 2,500 different tests in-house, mostly related to molecular, cytogenic, as well as radiological, studies.
The network of the company consists of more than 20 laboratories and diagnostic centers spread over 8 states, catering to individual patients, hospitals, and corporate clients with sophisticated diagnostic solutions. The USP of the company, MDRC, lies in the blend of legacy strengths, broad test menu, accredited labs, state-of-the-art imaging and pathology offerings, home sample collection, digital reporting for patients, and the focus for accurate results in diagnostics.
The company intended to use ₹20.7 crore of the net proceeds to acquire sophisticated medical equipment for its diagnostic centers and laboratories, thus enhancing its capabilities. Another ₹8 crore was allocated to meet the working capital needs, while ₹1 crore was earmarked to repay part of the debt. The rest of the amount was set aside for general corporate purposes.
During the allotment phase, the grey market price of the unlisted shares of Modern Diagnostic was reported at around ₹103.5 per share, indicating a Grey Market Premium (GMP) of ₹13.5, or approximately 15 percent, over the higher end of the IPO price band, as reported by sources monitoring the grey market activity. It was noted that grey markets are unregulated and unofficial markets, and investors should not solely depend on the GMP for IPO listing performance.
Expressing his views on the successful IPO, Dr. D.S. Yadav, the CMD for Modern Diagnostic & Research Centre, stated, “The strong enthusiasm shown by the investors has reaffirmed our conviction that precise diagnostic facilities provide a strong base for quality health. The amount generated from the IPO has been used for the installation of the most advanced health facilities and systems that would further improve the diagnostic facilities and provide a strong base for a transparent organisation.”
With a robust subscription response and a plan in place for the use of funds, Modern Diagnostic & Research Centre entered its next phase of growth with renewed momentum and was poised to further enhance its presence and improve the standards of diagnosis across its network.
27, Jan 2026
3 Spices, DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad Presents Sofreh – A Journey into the Soul of Persian Cuisine
This January, 3 Spices invites diners to embark on a richly immersive culinary journey with Sofreh, an exclusive Persian food pop-up celebrating the depth, warmth, and heritage of one of the world’s oldest cuisines. Scheduled from 26th to 31st January 2026, the food pop-up will be available only during dinner, offering guests an evocative taste of Persia through time-honoured recipes and soulful flavours.
Curated to reflect the essence of Persian gastronomy, Sofreh showcases a menu steeped in tradition, where saffron-infused delicacies, aromatic grilled kebabs, and herb-rich slow-cooked stews take centre stage. Signature dishes include the comforting Ghormeh Sabzi, the indulgent Fesenjan with its delicate balance of nutty and tangy notes, Albaloo Polo, and fragrant Persian pilaf, each prepared using authentic techniques and ingredients true to the cuisine’s roots.
Speaking about the pop-up, the Khizer Khan, Hotel Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad said,
“With Sofreh, we aim to bring an authentic and immersive dining experience to our guests—one that goes beyond food and tells the story of Persian culture, heritage, and hospitality. At 3 Spices, we continuously strive to curate meaningful culinary journeys, and this pop-up is a celebration of flavours that are both soulful and timeless.”
So, this January, head to 3 Spices at Double Tree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad and savour the soul of Persia through a dining experience that blends tradition, flavour, and finesse.
27, Jan 2026
Beauty Leads, Electronics Slip as Online Payments Overtake COD in Republic Day Sale 2026: GoKwik
Republic Day Sale 2026 Sets New Benchmarks: Beauty Surges While Electronics Dip; Online Payments Flip Cash on Delivery, Reveals GoKwik Insights
New Delhi, Jan 27: The 77th Republic Day has officially concluded, not just with parades, but with a massive digital footprint that cements the occasion as a primary shopping season in the Indian calendar. New data released by GoKwik reveals that the 2026 Republic Day sale period witnessed a robust 34% year-on-year growth in orders, signalling a maturing D2C ecosystem where consumer intent is high and distinct from traditional festive sales.
The e-commerce enablement platform released its post-sale insights, capturing how Indians shopped during the Republic Day period. The data reveals sharp shifts in category trends, payment preferences, and shopping timing.
The “Glow-Up” Surges, Electronics Dip According to GoKwik, the 2026 sale saw a massive acceleration in the Beauty and Personal Care (BPC) sector. Data indicates that the Beauty and Personal Care category nearly doubled its order volume, surging by approximately 74% year-on-year. This growth was driven by a high demand for “Clean Beauty,” haircare, and skincare products.
In contrast, the Electronics category saw a decline of nearly 24% in order volumes compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, Fashion sustained its position as a dominant category, continuing to drive a significant portion of the total sale volume alongside Beauty.
Online Payments Flip the Script Perhaps the most significant behavioral marker of the 2026 sale was the collapse of Cash on Delivery (COD) dominance. For the first time in this sale period’s history, online payments accounted for the majority of orders, edging out COD. This marks a fundamental maturing of the Indian shopper, driven by increased trust in homegrown brands and the allure of “Prepaid Discounts.”
The “Coffee & Cart” Ritual Shopping activity showed a distinct move toward early hours. The “Morning Rush” emerged as the prime shopping window, contributing the highest volume of orders. Unlike previous years defined by late-night impulse buys, 2026 shoppers were decisive early risers, checking out their carts before clocking in for the workday.
The “Tiranga” Effect in Bharat The sale also highlighted a deep-rooted thematic connection. Merchants fully embraced the theme with “Patriotic” coupon codes like REPUBLIC26, BHARAT, and FREEDOM seeing category-wide adoption.
Beyond discounts, the sale spurred a demand for identity. Merchandise with “Republic” and “Tiranga” themes, ranging from tricolor apparel to special edition stationery and curated snack combos, saw brisk sales. Notably, a significant portion of these thematic orders were shipped to Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns in states like Assam, West Bengal, and Odisha, highlighting that the patriotic sentiment driving consumption is a truly pan-India phenomenon.
Commenting on the findings, Chirag Taneja, Co-founder and CEO, GoKwik, said:
“The data reflects a fundamental shift in Indian consumer behaviour. What’s fascinating is how the top categories behaved this season. Beauty and Personal Care grew aggressively by ~75%, while Fashion sustained its strong contribution. Furthermore, with online payments overtaking COD, we are witnessing the maturation of the Indian online shopper in real-time. They are decisive, they pay digitally, and they shop before breakfast.”
GoKwik’s insights are derived from network data analyzing millions of orders across D2C brands, comparing the performance of the Republic Day sale period in 2026 against 2025.
27, Jan 2026
Survey Finds Domestic RMG Still Banned Across Tamil Nadu
Higher Spending, Increased Daily Time on Offshore Betting Platforms as Domestic RMG Remains Banned – Survey in Tamil Nadu
Chennai, Jan 27: A new survey conducted by CUTS International among 1,000 former online real money gaming (RMG) users in Tamil Nadu finds that spending on illegal offshore betting platforms has increased significantly since the nationwide ban on all online money games in India through Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. The findings suggest that while users have shifted platforms following regulatory changes, their underlying gaming behaviour, spending levels, frequency, and engagement intensity has remained largely unchanged.
Despite the state enacting stringent regulations in February 2025, through The Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority (TNOGA), which imposed tighter operational mandates on domestic and legitimate operators, the study indicates that since the PROG Act 2025, offshore betting platforms continued to be a part of user’s gaming behaviour. About 67.8% of respondents engaged with offshore platforms alongside domestic operators, prior to the national ban. This proportion has since increased to 83%, driven by more respondents initiating offshore use after the ban (26.9%) than discontinuing it (11.7%).
“The data from Tamil Nadu clearly shows that users have not stopped online money gaming or reduced spending,” said Mr. Amol Kulkarni, Director (Research), CUTS International. “Instead, the same patterns of behaviour are now playing out on illegal offshore betting platforms. What stands out is the noticeable shift and consolidation of spending on these platforms, with fewer but higher-value transactions, even in a state where they were formally banned.”
CUTS surveyed online gaming users in Tamil Nadu through a self-reported online questionnaire to assess changes in behaviour before and after restrictions on legal platforms took effect. The analysis examined shifts in platform usage, monthly spending, and frequency of play, session duration, and daily engagement. Across all parameters, the data points to platform substitution rather than any meaningful reduction in gaming activity.
KEY FINDINGS
- Offshore platform usage remains high: Offshore betting usage increased from 67.8% before restrictions to 83% after, underscoring sustained and widespread access to offshore platforms despite regulatory prohibitions.
- Significant increase in offshore spending levels: While offshore betting was previously concentrated in lower-value play, post-restriction spending has shifted sharply toward higher ticket sizes:
- 25% of offshore users now spend ₹5,000–9,999 per month,
- Pre-ban, only 2% reported monthly spends offshore above ₹10,000; post-ban, the share has increased with 21% spending ₹10,000–24,999 per month
- 9% report monthly spending offshore of ₹25,000 or more
These spending levels indicate a consolidation of higher-value play on offshore platforms, which was earlier spread across both regulated domestic money gaming platforms and unregulated offshore operators.
- Frequency and intensity of play remain unchanged: User engagement has intensified on offshore platforms:
- Daily offshore play increased from 3% pre-restrictions to 45% post-restrictions
- Users spending more than two hours per session offshore rose from 2% to 43%
- Multiple gaming sessions per day are now significantly more common offshore
The survey findings point to an important policy implication: prohibitive regulation that removes regulated domestic supply without effectively addressing access to offshore or informal alternatives may displace higher-value gaming activity into less regulated environments.
CUTS International conducted a similar survey in Delhi NCR in December 2025, which saw one in four surveyed users migrating to offshore platforms. With similar surveys in other states, CUTS International is building a broader, evidence-based understanding of how users respond to the PROG Act and how spending and engagement patterns evolve across different regulatory contexts.
27, Jan 2026
AI Fuels Surge in Data Privacy Investments and Redefines Governance, Cisco report
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), the worldwide leader in networking and security, unveiled the results of its 2026 Data and Privacy Benchmark Study, showing a striking shift in how organizations approach data privacy and governance. As AI adoption accelerates, nearly all companies are expanding privacy programs and governance frameworks to protect their data and innovate at scale. The growing demand for high-quality data to power AI is exposing gaps in oversight, and raising the stakes for trust, security, and competitiveness. The bottom line: for organizations to succeed in the AI-era, scalable and responsible AI strategies must be built through a mature, integrated approach to privacy and data governance.
Cisco surveyed 5,200 IT, technology, and security professionals with data privacy responsibilities across 12 markets* worldwide. The study reveals AI as the primary catalyst, driving 90% of companies to report expanded privacy programs, with 93% planning further investment to keep up with the complexity of AI systems and expectations of customers and regulators. Notably, globally 38% of organizations surveyed spent at least $5 million on their privacy programs in the past year, up from 14% in 2024.
AI Raises the Bar for Privacy and Trust, But Governance Is Still Evolving
An overwhelming 95% of organizations report that robust privacy frameworks unlock AI agility and innovation, while an equal 95% recognize privacy is essential for building customer trust in AI-powered services.
This year’s report points to a deep structural shift, where trust is no longer established simply by meeting regulatory requirements. Data governance is now seen as a strategic business enabler with 100% of organizations surveyed in India reporting at least one tangible benefit from their privacy initiatives, such as enhanced agility, innovation, and greater customer loyalty. 46% say that clear communication about how data is collected and used is the most effective way to build customer confidence.
With this momentum, governance is evolving to meet the needs of this changing landscape. Many organizations are still working to define and establish the governance structures required to manage AI responsibly at scale. While nearly two-thirds of organizations in India report having a dedicated AI governance body in place, only 12% describe these structures as mature. And, as AI systems draw from increasingly complex and distributed datasets, 70% of organizations struggle to access relevant, high-quality data efficiently.
“AI is forcing a fundamental shift in the data landscape, calling for holistic governance of all data – both personal and non-personal,” said Jen Yokoyama, Senior Vice President, Legal Innovation and Strategy at Cisco. “Organizations must deeply understand and structure their data to ensure every automated decision is explainable. It’s not just for compliance, but a necessary scaling engine for AI innovation.”
AI Sparks Global Data Flow Challenges
While around 79% of respondents in India are generally positive about data privacy laws, there is a growing push to streamline and update data requirements.
The study found that 91% of organizations surveyed in India face heightened demand for data localization and global data complexity. 91% of organizations in India say data localization adds cost, complexity, and risk to cross-border service delivery. Further, 87% report these requirements limit their ability to offer seamless 24/7 service across markets.
Global companies increasingly prefer technology partners that match their footprint: 87% believe global‑scale providers are better at managing cross‑border data flows.
“To capture the potential of AI, organizations (87%) are advocating for a shift toward harmonized international standards” said Harvey Jang, Cisco Vice President and Chief Privacy Officer. “They recognize that global consistency is an economic necessity to ensure data can flow securely while maintaining the high standards of protection required for trust.”
Building Trust and Innovation in the AI Era
To successfully evolve from reactive compliance to a proactive approach, the data shows that companies should invest in robust data infrastructure, prioritizing transparency, and embedding security and privacy throughout AI initiatives. Organizations should make informed decisions about data localization, establish strong AI governance, and empower their teams with comprehensive training and safeguards. These concrete actions are crucial for building enduring trust, driving responsible innovation, and ultimately thriving in the dynamic, AI-driven digital economy.
27, Jan 2026
Budget 2026 to Boost Domestic Electronics Manufacturing and Self-Reliance
By : Mr. Ashok Rajpal, Managing Director – Ambrane India.
In the electronics segment, we expect the government to continue its strong push toward building in-house manufacturing capabilities. Policy support is likely to remain focused on encouraging domestic production facilities and strengthening auxiliary ecosystems that support the electronics value chain. This approach aligns well with India’s long-term manufacturing ambitions, especially as electronics has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country. The exponential growth witnessed over the past few years reinforces our optimism, with India steadily positioning itself as a global manufacturing hub rather than just a consumption market.
For the broader population, the government has already taken significant steps to boost disposable incomes by extending tax slab benefits up to ₹12 lakh in the previous year. Given this substantial relief, we do not anticipate major additional tax relaxations in the upcoming budget. Instead, the policy focus is expected to shift toward stimulating domestic demand and strengthening self-reliance. Measures aimed at reducing dependence on imports, particularly from select countries, are likely to take precedence. This strategy not only supports local industries but also serves as a safeguard amid ongoing global trade tensions. Overall, the budget narrative appears firmly centered on reinforcing domestic capabilities, boosting internal consumption, and enhancing economic resilience in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
27, Jan 2026
India–EU Trade Deal: A Gateway to Strategic Growth
By: Mr. Dinesh Kanabar, Chairman & CEO, Dhruva Advisors, on the India–EU Trade Deal
“Great leadership, it is often said, lies in the ability to convert external challenges into strategic opportunities. In that spirit, it is heartening to see how India has responded to the headwinds created by higher tariffs imposed by the United States—not by retreating, but by accelerating its global economic integration through trade agreements with the UK, New Zealand, and now, most significantly, the European Union.
The India–EU Free Trade Agreement opens up one of the most important trading corridors in the world. For India, long a global leader in services, this pact expands access to the European market for its skilled professionals, technology services, and knowledge-based industries, at a time when human capital and digital capabilities are becoming central to global competitiveness.
For the European Union, India represents both a vast consumer market of 1.4 billion people and a fast-growing economy with rising demand for advanced manufactured goods, green technologies, pharmaceuticals, and capital equipment. Reduced tariffs and clearer market access will allow European firms to participate more deeply in India’s growth story.
Beyond trade, the agreement strengthens strategic partnership between two major democratic blocs, promotes investment, technology collaboration, and resilient supply chains. In that broader sense, this is not merely a trade deal, but a platform for long-term economic partnership—rightly being hailed as the “mother of all deals.”
27, Jan 2026
ZEN Diamond Unveils Valentine’s Day Collection
This Valentine’s Day, go beyond words and let the timeless brilliance of natural diamonds speak for your emotions. Zen Diamond India presents a curated selection of elegant, versatile and meaningful pieces, created for modern couples and style-forward individuals who value both beauty and sentiment. From the Kismet Midnight Heartbeat Bracelet, a symbol of love in its many expressions, to the striking Iris Ruby Heart and Diamond Eye Ring, an ideal choice for a thoughtful Valentine’s gift, each design blends contemporary refinement with enduring romance. Perfect for celebrating milestones, anniversaries or simply the joy of being together, these pieces are crafted to turn every moment of love into a lasting memory.
- Zen Pirlanta Heart of Sunshine Ring
At the heart of this striking design is a vibrant yellow diamond, beautifully shaped into a heart and framed by a sparkling halo of natural diamonds, set on a finely pave-crafted band. Luminous and full of warmth, the ring captures the spirit of romance and celebration, making it an ideal choice for a meaningful proposal, a milestone anniversary or a memorable Valentine’s Day gift. Each facet reflects light with exceptional brilliance, while the halo and pave accents enhance its radiance, creating a piece that mirrors the depth and permanence of true emotion. Crafted for those who wish to express love with grace and confidence, this ring turns a special occasion into a moment to be cherished forever.
- Regal Radiance Heart Pendant
From the Love Knot Collection, this elegant necklace is a tribute to enduring bonds, brought to life with a graceful design set with natural diamonds. The heart-shaped pendant carries a quiet sophistication, making it a beautiful choice for romantic evenings, anniversaries, milestone moments or intimate celebrations. Resting close to the heart, it lends a touch of refined luxury to every occasion, turning both everyday moments and special milestones into memories that shine.
- Iris Ruby Heart and Diamond Eye Ring
Part of the Iris Collection, this refined ring showcases a vivid ruby heart framed by shimmering natural diamonds, coming together in a design that is both graceful and versatile. Created to transition seamlessly from everyday wear to special occasions, it adds a subtle yet striking touch of brilliance to any look. Comfortable, elegant and full of character, the ring makes a beautiful choice for daily styling, milestone moments or a meaningful Valentine’s Day gift, blending timeless appeal with a modern sensibility.
- Hearts Aglow Diamond Necklace
The Deck Up Collection brings a fresh expression of everyday elegance, elevated with a touch of luxury. Showcasing fine rose gold chains set with bezel-framed diamonds and distinctive pendants in silhouettes such as marquise, oval, teardrop, emerald and baguette, each design balances modern minimalism with enduring brilliance. Created for those with a keen sense of style, these necklaces move effortlessly from refined daytime looks to evening glamour, making them a versatile and striking addition to any jewellery wardrobe.
- Kismet Midnight Heartbeat Bracelet
A romantic yet bold accent, crafted to captivate and inspire. Perfect for weddings, festive celebrations, date nights, cocktail parties, and other special occasions, this bracelet adds a touch of graceful charm and emotional elegance to any ensemble. Its design celebrates all forms of love, allowing even married couples to commemorate their shared moments, anniversaries, and milestones in style. With the Kismet Midnight Heartbeat Bracelet, every heartbeat, every glance, and every memory is captured in a sparkling statement of enduring connection and timeless beauty.
