The GSMA Board elects Gopal Vittal as the new Chairman

Gurugram (India), March 24, 2025: The Board of Directors of the GSMA elected Gopal Vittal – Vice Chairman & MD, Bharti Airtel, as its new Chairman, until the end of 2026. Gopal is currently the acting Chair of the GSMA board.

In his role as the Chairman, Gopal will oversee the strategic direction of the GSMA. The members of this prestigious body include 1000 telecom companies from around the world, handset and device companies, software companies, equipment providers, internet companies, as well as organizations in adjacent industry sectors. Gopal becomes the second Indian after Sunil Bharti Mittal to be elected as the Chairman of the GSMA Board.

The appointment also highlights the significant influence Airtel has in the global telecom industry, with both Sunil Bharti Mittal and Gopal Vittal having held key positions on the GSMA Board for years.

Taking on the role, Gopal Vittal said “I am honored to be elected as the Chair of the GSMA Board. The mobile industry contributed $6.5 trillion to the global economy in 2024 and is the spine on which much of the innovation in the world is built. The GSMA, as a global organisation unifying the mobile ecosystem, is fundamental to discover, develop and deliver innovation that impacts positive change for all. I look forward to working closely with the GSMA team and the rest of the Board to continue this important work. “

Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA, commented: “I have worked with Mr. Vittal for many years and am delighted that he has been appointed Chair of the GSMA Board. His knowledge and experience makes him very well positioned to lead the Board and the industry through the current challenges and opportunities, including how to leverage AI and complete 5G for new business models and revenues streams.”

Gopal has served on the GSMA Board in different capacities for over a decade including as Deputy Chair for the last three years. Most recently, he was also appointed the Acting Chair of the GSMA board in early 2025 and has now been formally elected as the Chair of the GSMA board. Gopal will serve as the Chair of the Board until the end of 2026. The GSMA Board will announce the election of a new Deputy Chair in due course.

Gopal Vittal is currently the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel and is also a Board member of Bharti Airtel Limited, Airtel Africa PLC and Indus Towers. Prior to this, he was the Managing Director & CEO for Airtel for 12 years.

Yakult Launches GutIsBusted Campaign for Healthy Gut Awareness

March 24th, 2025, New Delhi: Having carved a distinct niche for itself in the probiotic category, Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd. launched a quirky and enjoyablesocial media awareness campaign to reinforce the importance of good bacteria to keep a healthy and happy gut. This poignant Social Media campaign will remain live from March 17-31, 2025. This was disclosed by Mr Eiji Amano, Managing Director, Yakult India Pvt. Ltd.

This innovative campaign titled #GutIsBusted starts with the hype that someone has been arrested for weak immunity, bad digestion and fatigue. But later, it is disclosed that it is not the gut but harmful bacteria that are the primary reason for the illness. Hence, among others, Yakult is also a very good solution to increase good bacteria for better digestion and immunity.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Taku Otsuka, Director of Sales, PR &Marketing, Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd., remarked, “Today, world over, people are facing multiple health challenges. The health barometer suggests that 7 of every 10 Indians may be at risk of a lifestyle disorder. While this has been linked to poor nutrition, stress and lack of physical activity, an important determining factor is poor intestinal health. Hence, we have tried to reinforce the link between intestinal health and good health. Through this innovative campaign, we have highlighted the importance of good bacteria in the gut. The concept of probiotics is unique and literally means “For Life”. The unique probiotic Yakult bottle contains 6.5 billion live Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, which suppress the growth of harmful disease-causing bacteria and increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut.”

Detailing further,Dr. Neerja Hajela, Head of Science Department, Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd.,elaborated, “The gut functions as a virtual organ ashome to over 100 trillion microbes, which weigh about 2 kg. The communities of micro-organisms areabsolutely essential for the digestion of food, absorption of nutrients, maintenance of a well-developed immune system and production of essential vitamins such as vitamin B. It is pertinent to maintain intestinal balance. Probiotics, backed by decades of research, have been scientifically proven to contribute to the balance of these microbes and, thereby, both improve digestive health and build overall immunity.”

According to Mr.Ippei Nagamine,Chief Manager of PR & Marketing, Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd. “Today, we are present in all 28 states& 6 Union territoriesin India. The health benefits of Yakult are tangible, and there is an upward trend in consumption. There is great visibility about the brand, and we are constantly and innovatively communicating the key messages of our signature products through consumer engagement initiatives at the ground level and on multiple platforms to raise awareness”.

MLAs Participate in Training to Drive State’s Development Vision​

Mumbai, 25th March 2025: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, a leading institution recognized for #BuildingBusinessOwners, successfully concluded the two-day Public Leadership Programme, a pioneering initiative designed for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Chhattisgarh. The program was scheduled from March 22-23, 2025. This initiative aimed to enhance governance effectiveness and leadership skills, fostering a vision for a ‘Viksit Chhattisgarh 2047.

 The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest, Vishnu Deo Sai, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Chhattisgarh, along with Dr. Charandas Mahant, Hon’ble Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Raman Singh, Hon’ble Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, and Kedar Kashyap, Hon’ble Minister of Parliamentary Affairs.

Addressing the gathering, Vishnu Deo Sai, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Chhattisgarh, shared, “This Public Leadership Program is a strong platform for sharing new solutions and it will prove useful and meaningful in achieving the goal of developed Chhattisgarh 2047. If we have to take the state forward, then we have to be equally prepared to deal with all kinds of challenges. We need to emphasize on the proper use of technology in public interest. As a public representative, your behavior with the common people is the biggest asset and it will strengthen the trust of the people in you and the parliamentary system.”

Dr. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, said, “At our institute, we believe in bridging the gap between education and administration. This programme is not limited to learning but also an opportunity to collaborate, exchange ideas and share innovative solutions to not only elevate the administrative standards of Chhattisgarh but also provide inspiration to other states. This programme is designed to provide a platform for decision making and capacity building based on strategic dialogue elements, which is an essential element to achieve the goal of Developed Chhattisgarh 2047.”

Vidhan Sabha Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, while addressing the Leadership Program, said that all members actively participated in the Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha budget session for nearly a month, and their presence at this two-day event immediately afterward is commendable.

He stated, “You might be wondering why we need training after winning. After winning, our responsibilities and roles increase, which is why we must continue to learn. We should not work only for our respective constituencies but for the overall betterment of Chhattisgarh.”

Dr. Charandas Mahant, Opposition Leader, shared, “It would be a wrong notion to think that we became leaders as soon as we became MLAs. Becoming a leader is a process and we have to learn it. A tribal son of Jashpur has become the Chief Minister today after overcoming difficult circumstances, this is the beauty and strength of our democracy. The main objective of all of us is the progress of Chhattisgarh and there is a need to move forward with this.”

On the second day, the Valedictory Session brought together esteemed dignitaries. Dr. Raman Singh, Hon. Speaker (CG), Dr. Charandas Mahant, Hon. LoP (CG), and Shri Kedar Kashyap, Hon. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, shared their insights. Dr. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, addressed the gathering. Program Directors, Prof. Sanjeev Prashar and Prof. Sumeet Gupta, played key roles in the program’s success. Prof. Archana Parashar, Key Facilitator, also shared her perspective.

The two-day-long leadership program featured sessions delivered by highly experienced speakers on crucial topics, including Financial Planning and Budgeting, Public Life and Narratives, AI and Tech, Managing Media & Public Relations, the Duties & Responsibilities of Public Representatives, and Good Governance and Transforming Lives

Goa Electronics & HCL GUVI Launch GenAI Training to Boost IT Hub

Goa, March 24, 2025: In a landmark initiative to establish Goa as a thriving IT hub, Goa Electronics Limited (GEL), in collaboration with HCL GUVI, has successfully concluded a Generative AI (GenAI) training program aimed at upskilling government employees and IT professionals. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision of making India the ‘AI Hub of the World’, a mission championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi through transformative programs like Karma Yogi Bharath.

As part of Goa’s digital transformation strategy, the program provided cutting-edge AI training to employees of Goa Electronics Limited, equipping them with expertise in AI-driven productivity tools and automation solutions. By integrating AI capabilities into governance and professional sectors, the initiative aims to enhance efficiency, drive technological innovation, and accelerate Goa’s economic growth.

With increasing investments in Goa’s IT sector, this initiative highlights how AI-powered education can empower the youth and expand employment opportunities in knowledge-driven industries. It aligns with the Government of Goa’s long-term vision of attracting high-value investments and fostering sustainable, high-skilled jobs in the state.

According to the Goa Economic Survey 2024-25, the state’s white-collar employment rate is 15% lower than the national average, with only 23% of the workforce engaged in knowledge-based industries. To bridge this gap, the intensive 24-hour training program, conducted from March 3 to March 8, 2025, focused on equipping professionals with in-demand GenAI skills such as prompt engineering, model fine-tuning, image generation, and AI-powered applications.

Revati Kumar, CEO & Executive Director of Goa Electronics Limited, emphasised the significance of AI training in shaping the state’s digital future, “This collaboration is a strategic investment in Goa’s workforce. By equipping professionals with high-value AI skills, we are ensuring that Goa remains at the forefront of India’s tech revolution. With the government’s vision of India as a global AI powerhouse, we are not only enhancing our government employees’ capabilities but also fostering a digitally empowered governance system.”

Arun Prakash M, Founder & CEO of GUVI, said, “Through this initiative, Goa takes a decisive step toward establishing itself as a key player in India’s digital economy, fostering a skilled workforce ready to embrace AI-driven transformation.”

“Generative AI is not just a tool; it’s a paradigm shift that will redefine industries and job markets. Through this initiative, we are empowering Goa’s workforce with the expertise needed to harness AI’s full potential. By equipping professionals and government employees with cutting-edge AI skills, we are laying the foundation for Goa’s emergence as a competitive IT hub, capable of attracting global investments and fostering innovation,” said Apoorv Johari, Head of Enterprise Business – GUVI.

ESC Honors Beyond Key for Outstanding Export Performance

March 25, 2025 – Beyond Key, a leading global technology solutions provider, has been honoured with the prestigious National Export Excellence Award by the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC). This award recognizes Beyond Key’s exceptional contribution to software exports, reaffirming its position as a key player in India’s technology sector.

The ESC National Export Excellence Awards celebrate companies that demonstrate outstanding export growth, innovation, and global business impact. Beyond Key was recognized for its consistent expansion into international markets, cutting-edge technology solutions, and client-centric approach. The company has made significant strides in digital transformation, offering state-of-the-art software solutions across various industries, including healthcare, retail, finance, and logistics.

Commenting on the same belief, Mr. Piyush Goel, CEO and Founder of Beyond Key, stated, “This award is a proud moment for Beyond Key, reflecting our dedication to innovation, global excellence, and customer-centric solutions. We remain committed to delivering cutting-edge technology that empowers businesses worldwide.”


The award ceremony, held in New Delhi, was attended by industry leaders, policymakers, and esteemed members of the ESC. Representing Beyond Key at the event were Mr. Ambrish Kanungo, Head of Human Resources, and Mr. Rahul Panwar, Assistant Vice President of Global Delivery. Their presence underscored the company’s commitment to fostering a robust global delivery network and driving digital innovation.

Beyond Key has consistently focused on expanding its global footprint by delivering high-quality IT services to clients in the United States, Europe, and Australia. The company’s export success is driven by its ability to leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data analytics, and automation.

Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Rahul Panwar, AVP of Global Delivery at Beyond Key, said: “Receiving this prestigious award is a testament to Beyond Key’s relentless commitment to innovation and global excellence. Our ability to create world-class digital solutions has enabled us to build strong relationships with clients across the globe. This recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries in technology and software development.”

Beyond Key’s success is also attributed to its strong talent pool, comprising highly skilled professionals who bring innovation and creativity to every project. The company actively invests in upskilling its workforce, fostering a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and customer-first innovation.

As a key contributor to India’s IT sector, Beyond Key’s achievements align with the Government of India’s vision for digital transformation and economic growth. The company’s expanding export portfolio supports job creation and skill development, further strengthening India’s position as a global technology powerhouse.

Mr. Ambrish Kanungo, Head of HR at Beyond Key, highlighted the company’s people-first approach, stating, “Our people are our biggest strength. This award is a recognition of the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our team. We will continue to nurture talent, drive innovation, and contribute to the Indian IT sector’s growth on the global stage.”

Under Piyush Goel’s leadership, Beyond Key has achieved remarkable milestones, including being recognized as a “Great Place to Work” for six consecutive years, securing a spot among the Top 25 Organizations for Building Culture and Innovation for All, Great Place for Millenials and ranking 35th in India’s Great Mid-Size Workplaces 2024 by Great Place to Work®. Additionally, Beyond Key was named an Inc. 2024 Power Partner Award Winner, a Great Place to Work for the sixth time in a row and now honoured with the Export Excellence Award has reinforced industry leadership.

World TB Day- Understanding Tuberculosis

By: Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, Aster RV Hospital

March 24th marks World Tuberculosis Day, commemorating the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacillus. Despite over a century of scientific progress, tuberculosis (TB) continues to challenge our public health systems, particularly in high-burden countries like India. According to the Global TB Report 2024, India contributes to over 28% of the world’s TB cases, making it the country with the highest disease burden, followed by Indonesia, China, the Philippines, and PakistanYet, TB remains curable and preventable — provided it is diagnosed early and treated appropriately.

Understanding Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an airborne bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also involve other organs. Common symptoms include a persistent cough for more than 2–3 weeks, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and coughing up blood. The disease spreads through microscopic droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Case Vignette: A Timely Bronchoscopy Saves a Young Professional
Ravi (name changed), a 32-year-old software engineer from Bangalore, had been experiencing a dry cough and low-grade fever for four weeks. He initially dismissed it as a post-viral cough, but when his symptoms worsened, he sought medical help. A chest X-ray revealed a patchy opacity in the right upper zone. Sputum samples were inconclusive, and GeneXpert testing came back negative.

Given the strong clinical suspicion and non-resolving radiographic findings, CT thorax was done followed by with a flexible bronchoscopy, a safe, minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualisation and sampling from the lungs. Bronchial washings were sent for TB PCR and culture. The result? Positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Bronchoscopy sample also helped in getting further details like what appropriate medications to be given based on culture test. The early diagnosis allowed Ravi to start on the correct anti-tubercular therapy before further deterioration, preventing complications and reducing his infectiousness to others.

This case illustrates a critical lesson: in patients with atypical presentations or inconclusive sputum results, bronchoscopy can be a decisive diagnostic tool. It underscores the need for advanced diagnostic facilities to be made more accessible.

Why Awareness Matters
Despite being a preventable and curable disease, TB continues to carry a significant social stigma. Many individuals delay seeking care out of fear of discrimination. Delayed diagnosis leads to worse outcomes and continued community transmission.

What can we do as citizens?

  1. Know the symptoms – any cough lasting more than two weeks deserves evaluation.
  2. Do not ignore unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or night sweats.
  3. Seek medical attention early.
  4. Adhere strictly to treatment regimens.
  5. Avoid stigmatising patients with TB — it is a treatable infection, not a moral failing.

Kyoorius 2025 Awards Ceremony Confirmed for 24 May

25th March 2025 – The Kyoorius Creative Awards Night is set to take place on 24 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, marking the culmination of the 2025 edition of the Kyoorius Creative Awards.

Dedicated to celebrating creativity in all its forms, the event will bring together the brightest minds in advertising, marketing, and communications industries for an evening of recognition, inspiration, and community.

This year’s awards night has been re-scheduled to accommodate industry events, so the creative community doesn’t have to choose between attending key gatherings.

Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder and CEO of Kyoorius, said, “Kyoorius has always been about fostering the industry. A joint dialogue led to a request. We decided there and then to find a solution so no one has to miss out on either of the industry events. We’re looking forward to the Kyoorius Creative Awards Night on 24th May, celebrating great work and bringing the community together.”

Jaideep Gandhi, Chairperson of the Goafest 2025 Organising Committee & Ajay Kakar, Chairman – Awards Governing Council, The Abby Awards, added: “With GoaFest and Abby Awards scheduled for 21st , 22nd , and 23rd May, scheduling the Kyoorius Creative Awards Night on 24th May ensures that our industry gets to participate and celebrate creative excellence, twice over.”

Bidadi Industries Association Hosts 2nd Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon

Bangalore, 24th March 2025: The Bidadi Industries Association Foundation (BIAF) successfully hosted the 2nd edition of the Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon on 23rd March 2025 at Jollywood Studios, nestled in the scenic Bidadi Industrial Area on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Centred around the theme “Run for Safety & Sustainability,” witnessed a turnout of over 4,500 registered participants from diverse walks of life—highlighting a rising passion for fitness, road safety awareness, and environmental responsibility. Toyota Kirloskar Motor, given its strong commitment to road safety and sustainability, proudly supported the event as the Title Sponsor.

India continues to grapple with alarming road safety challenges—over 1,50,000 fatalities occur annually due to road crashes, making it the highest globally. Shockingly, road traffic injuries remain the leading cause of death among individuals aged 5 to 29 years. In this backdrop, the marathon stood as a meaningful platform to raise awareness, advocate responsible road behaviour, and inspire change.

The marathon served as a powerful testament to community spirit, resilience, and collective action, bringing together participants from over 30 industries, fitness enthusiasts, community members, and a remarkable group of more than 1,000 runners from Toyota Kirloskar Motor.

The event also saw the active participation of key government official from Ramanagara—Mr. Yashwanth Gurukar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner; underscoring the strong, shared commitment to promoting health, safety, and sustainability, reinforcing the marathon’s deeper purpose beyond the run.

Present at the occasion, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President and Head State Affairs, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota, we strongly believe in empowering communities through sustainable initiatives that promote health, safety, and well-being. The Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon is more than just a race—it is a testament to our vision of creating a fitter, safer, and more environmentally responsible future. By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and communities, this marathon has demonstrated the power of unity in driving meaningful change. We are incredibly proud of the enthusiastic participation and unwavering support received from all stakeholders. Toyota remains committed to championing such initiatives that inspire people to take charge of their fitness while advocating for road safety and sustainability.”

As part of a broader awareness drive, the marathon featured impactful road safety hoardings, street plays, and skits led by students and volunteers to educate participants and spectators on responsible road behaviour and sustainability. The active involvement of children and youth fostered deeper community engagement, reinforcing the event’s inclusive spirit. With race categories for all fitness levels—including 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K Timed Runs, and a fun-filled 3K Majja Run—the event drew participants from all walks of life, including senior citizens, bureaucrats, and community members, who were recognized and awarded for their commitment to health, safety, and the environment.

The BIA Foundation, established in 2023 and formally registered under the Indian Trust Act, continues to drive impactful community development initiatives across the Ramanagara district. Powered by the collective contributions of industries in and around the Bidadi Industrial Area, the foundation remains committed to creating sustainable, long-term change. The Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon was not just a celebration of physical endurance—it was a rallying call for health, safety, and sustainability. By bringing together individuals, industries, and institutions for a common cause, the event left a lasting imprint on the community, reinforcing the values of unity, awareness, and collective responsibility that lie at the heart of the foundation’s mission.

Bajaj Allianz Life Urges Awareness as 81% Remain Underinsured​

25 March 2025: Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurers, has released a comprehensive study titled ‘Underinsurance Survey 2025’, conducted in collaboration with NielsenIQ. The survey covered 2,000 individuals across metro, tier 1, and tier 2 cities, assessing life insurance coverage levels and identifying gaps in financial protection. The findings highlight the current state of life insurance in India and the key factors influencing purchasing decisions.

The survey reveals a significant shift in life insurance trends, with the average age of first-time buyers dropping from 33 to 28 years. Family responsibilities, income levels, and health concerns emerged as key drivers for insurance adoption. Notably, 81% of respondents believed that life insurance coverage of less than 10 times their annual income was sufficient for financial security. However, the actual coverage figures tell a different story—in urban areas, the average life cover stood at 3.1X times annual income, dropping to 2.9 times for Mass Affluent and Affluent families respectively.

Speaking on the survey findings, Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, said, India, despite being one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, has a total sum assured at just 70% of GDP—significantly lower than countries like the US (251%), Thailand (143%), and Malaysia (153%), highlighting a critical protection gap. This shortfall can leave families financially vulnerable, forcing them to dip into savings or liquidate assets in times of crisis, which can derail their life goals. To truly safeguard one’s loved ones, it’s essential to assess coverage needs holistically—factoring in income, liabilities, and future aspirations. A simple rule of thumb is to have life cover at least 10 times one’s annual income, ensuring financial security when it matters most.

 “Our Underinsurance Survey 2025 highlights this gap. Along with IRDAI and the industry, we will continue to take firmer steps to drive awareness, enhance product transparency, and improve accessibility. A robust digital and tech-enabled service ecosystem will be key in bridging this gap. Together, we can move closer to achieving the vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047”

Key Findings of the Survey

  • Perception vs. Reality: Indians believed they had coverage of 6.4 times their income, but the actual coverage averaged just 3.1 times, highlighting a major gap in financial preparedness.
  • Lack of coverage reviews: Over one in three Indians have never reviewed their life insurance coverage, even after major life events. This number rises to 43% among self-employed and affluent individuals, putting them at higher risk of underinsurance.
  • Confidence in coverage: While younger individuals are purchasing insurance earlier, the 46-50 age group, which typically bought policies at age 33, expressed low confidence in their sum assured, reflecting ongoing uncertainty about coverage adequacy.
  • Key factors for determining coverage: Family responsibilities, higher income, and health concerns were the top three considerations for individuals when deciding on life insurance coverage.
  • Source of information: 46% of Indians rely on personal research for life insurance decisions, emphasizing a preference for self-directed learning. However, major life events are often overlooked when reassessing coverage needs.

The findings underscore a critical gap in life insurance awareness and adequacy in India. While more people are recognizing the importance of life insurance, misconceptions about required coverage persist, leaving many underinsured. Many find the concept of adequate life insurance coverage complex or struggle to grasp its importance. Bajaj Allianz Life has been focused on simplifying this, making it a routine part of household financial planning. The key is to determine the right coverage by assessing one’s income, savings, liabilities, and family needs. The general rule-of-thumb is to secure cover that is 10 times one’s annual income. This will keep the policyholder’s family financially well supported in the event of his/her death.

17th NAR-India Convention Concludes with Strong Industry Participation

The 17th NAR-India Annual Convention, hosted by NAR-India at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, concluded on a high note. The two-day national convention brought together policymakers, industry stalwarts, and real estate professionals from across India. The grand closing ceremony was graced by the presence of renowned Indian actress Divya Dutta as the Chief Guest, who applauded the efforts of NAR-India in driving ethical and professional standards in the real estate sector. The event was earlier inaugurated in the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of Power and Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.

The convention served as a dynamic platform for discussions on pivotal reforms and progressive trends, with a special focus on the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), the proposed “One Nation, One Licence” policy for brokers, and the increasing emphasis on structured certification and training programs. The deliberations reflected NAR-India’s unwavering commitment to creating a transparent, professional, and future-ready real estate ecosystem in India.

In his keynote address during the inauguration, Hon’ble Manohar Lal Khattar emphasized the significant role of regulatory frameworks like RERA in building a transparent and accountable industry. He remarked, “On the occasion of World Real Estate Day, I extend my best wishes to the real estate community for their substantial role in nation-building. As envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, India’s development into a prosperous nation by 2047 hinges on a robust economic foundation, and the real estate sector, contributing nearly 18% to the GDP, will be instrumental in this journey. With continuous innovation, reforms, and skill development, this industry can grow to ₹85 lakh crore by 2030, generating employment and boosting economic strength.”

Gracing the closing ceremony, Guest of honor Divya Dutta lauded the real estate community for their dedication and impact. Sharing her thoughts, she said, “I think it’s a great initiative. It’s not an easy job—it requires a lot of effort. A home is one of the most essential needs for a person, and they make it happen. It’s beautiful to be here and witness the commitment of professionals who turn dreams into reality.”

The convention underscored the critical importance of education, certification, and ongoing professional development. Several discussions highlighted the need to equip real estate professionals with contemporary skills, ethical practices, and comprehensive regulatory knowledge to better meet the evolving needs of the market.

Mr. Sumanth Reddy Arani, Chairman of NAR-India, shared his thoughts on the occasion, stating, “This year’s convention has marked another milestone in our journey towards a professionalized and transparent real estate sector in India. NAR-India remains committed to promoting education, advocating policy reforms, and empowering professionals to lead the way in this transformative era.”

Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Mitesh Poddar, President-Elect, APP Delhi NCR and Co-Chair of the 17th NAR-India Annual Convention, added, “The proposed ‘One Nation, One Licence’ system is a revolutionary step for real estate professionals. It will simplify processes, enhance trust, and create uniform regulations, enabling ease of doing business across different states.”

Mr. Gaganpal Singh, President of APP Delhi NCR and Co-Chair of the convention, also remarked, “While RERA has already brought significant transparency, there is an ongoing need to strengthen professional education in our field. By focusing on knowledge-building and ethical standards, we can ensure that every real estate agent is well-prepared to serve clients with integrity and professionalism.”

The two-day event also witnessed the participation of several prominent personalities,; Aman Gupta, Co-founder & CMO of boAt; Sahil Kapoor of Keller Williams India; Bharath Kumar, Co-founder & CEO of ZeroCode Innovations; celebrated author Chetan Bhagat, and many others. Their valuable insights and experiences enriched the conversations, providing a comprehensive perspective on the future of Indian real estate.

The convention concluded with a special felicitation ceremony for participants of NAR-India’s national knowledge-driven training program, Real Estate Business Management. Twenty participants from across India who successfully completed the course were awarded certificates in recognition of their achievements. This initiative reflects NAR-India’s focus on enhancing professional capabilities through structured learning and certification.

With the resounding success of its 17th Annual Convention, NAR-India has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a progressive, ethical, and professionally driven real estate industry that is ready to meet the aspirations of a rapidly developing India.