1st April 2025: Alcatel, is a French tech brand independently operated by TCL Communication under trademark licensing from Nokia, is set to begin its operations in India, one of the world’s fastest-growing smartphone markets. The brand will launch a smartphone with a stylus, making premium technology accessible to the mass market in India. Advancing its legacy, the brand will introduce a range of premium smartphones that combine cutting-edge technology and India’s first patented innovations (pending or granted) along with a stylish design inspired by French heritage, advanced hardware, and unique features—all while remaining accessible to the rapidly expanding Indian consumer market.

The brand’s smartphones will be manufactured in India from the beginning, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Recognizing India’s immense potential, the brand aims to reach millions of new users as mobile technology adoption accelerates. Additionally, Alcatel will establish a robust pan-India service network to ensure seamless support for its consumers.

As Alcatel enters the Indian market, it brings not only its patented technology and decades of expertise but also an unwavering commitment to providing Indian consumers with exceptional experiences that enhance their everyday lives. With a deep-rooted history of pioneering in innovative technologies and an uncompromising focus on quality, Alcatel India is excited to introduce this rich heritage to a market that values and nurtures progress. The brand aims to make premium features more accessible, targeting urban aspirants, tech enthusiasts, and digital nomads.

Speaking about this,

Atul Vivek, CBO (Chief Business Officer):

“At Alcatel, our vision for India is to democratize innovation by making premium features accessible to a broader audience. Our devices seamlessly merge with style and performance, catering to tech enthusiasts, urban aspirants, fashion-conscious consumers, and digital nomads alike. We believe that technology should not only be powerful but also reflect the latest trends, and we are excited to introduce products that embody this philosophy in the Indian market.”

Ansh Rathi, COO (Chief Operating Officer):

“As we expand our presence in India, from day 1 we have embraced the ‘Made in India’ initiative by focusing on local manufacturing. By producing our devices within the country, we aim to enhance supply chain efficiency, ensure superior quality, and contribute to India’s growing technology ecosystem. This strategic move not only strengthens our commitment to the Indian market but also reinforces our mission to make cutting-edge technology more accessible and affordable for consumers.“

With its rich heritage and strong commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and consumer-centricity, Alcatel looks forward to delivering a comprehensive tech ecosystem to Indian consumers. By combining premium design, cutting-edge innovation, and an unparalleled user experience, the brand aims to redefine the Indian smartphone industry.

April 01, 2025: India’s Future Investors (IFI), the country’s first-ever investment education reality TV show, collaborates with BSE Institute Limited (BIL), a 100% subsidiary of BSE Limited, as its official knowledge partner. This collaboration aims to empower IFI participants with industry-leading financial literacy and investment knowledge through free webinars, and certifications.

Under this partnership, IFI participants will get certificates from BSE Institute and gain exclusive access to BSE Institute’s specialized training programs, offering insights into stock markets, financial planning, and investment strategies, enhancing their credentials and boosting their confidence as informed investors.

Speaking on the partnership, Mahek Tomer, Founder & CEO of IFI, said, “Partnering with BSE Institute marks a major milestone in our mission to foster a culture of informed investing. By equipping our participants with expert knowledge, practical skills, and recognized certification, we aim to create a new generation of savvy investors who can make confident and data-driven financial decisions. This partnership will add immense value to our show, making financial literacy accessible and rewarding.”

Mr.V.Narayanan Iyer, Managing Director, BSE Institute Limited, added, “Financial literacy is the cornerstone of a strong and resilient economy. By collaborating with IFI, we are excited to provide aspiring investors with access to world-class educational resources and certification. Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the financial markets effectively, contributing to India’s journey towards becoming a $5 trillion economy.”

The partnership with BSE Institute complements IFI’s vision of making financial education engaging and practical. This initiative will not only enhance the financial skills of participants but also inspire millions of viewers to embrace responsible investing. With BSE Institute as the knowledge partner, India’s Future Investors continue to lead the way in transforming financial literacy into an exciting and empowering experience, shaping the future of India’s investor community.

1 April 2025: While others race to the moon and back, the Faroe Islands space program takes a bold new step in space exploration—without ever leaving Earth. One of the largest bearing manufacturers SKF, and ocean energy developer Minesto are launching a space program to harness the Moon’s energy by leveraging the power of the tides. This space program aims to utilize the resources we already have right here on Earth.

“Imagine a future powered by the tides of the Moon. This unique project dares to dream big and is exploring the potential of renewable tidal energy. At SKF we are proud to be a part of this down-to-earth project that aligns with our values and our ambition to create a more sustainable world,” says Annika Ölme, CTO & SVP, Technology Development, SKF.

Over the past year, SKF and Minesto have been pioneering tidal energy using tidal kites in the Atlantic Sea outside the Faroe Islands. The mission is to harness the Moon’s power for predictable and renewable energy. After its successful launch into the ocean, the tidal kite called LUNA is flying underwater, invisibly and silently harvesting energy from the Moon – no matter the weather. Today, only a few of the countries with favorable tidal current conditions are beginning to utilize the full potential of moon generated energy – the most predictable renewable energy source on the globe.

“For us, as a tech development company to work with a global industrial company such as SKF is both a learning experience and an inspiration,” says Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto. “We estimate there are at least 3000 more “Faroe Islands” out there qualifying for our space program – if they all join, moon energy could replace all coal power capacity currently under development globally.”

The established tidal energy facility – a moon energy base – will kick off the Faroe Islands Space Program, firmly grounded on Earth. The kite Luna has a rated power of 1.2 MW, enough to power 200 villas with electricity for one year. The next goal is to implement a new 200 MW tidal energy facility. This could meet 40% of the expected electricity needs in 2030, providing green electricity to the small, remote island nation’s 50,000 people and 70,000 sheep. Unlocking the power of the tides is a joint work together with power company Sev:

“Our vision is to reach 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030 and we believe that tidal power may prove to become a vital part of this journey,” says Hákun Djurhuus, CEO of the Faroese electricity company Sev.

SKF was brought on board to design the bearing and sealing systems for the rudders and elevators of the kites. The SKF software system calculates, for example, bearing rating life and estimates CO2 emissions, which makes it possible to compare different solutions not only from a technical perspective but also from a sustainability point of view.

“Collaboration across industries is essential for progress. Together with Minesto, we are demonstrating how technology and innovation can drive the transition to renewable energy,” says Annika Ölme, CTO & SVP, Technology Development, SKF.

Adding to this, SKF’s presence in key global markets, including India and Southeast Asia, highlights the broader potential of tidal energy solutions.

“This collaboration with Minesto represents a breakthrough in how we approach renewable energy, utilizing the Moon’s gravitational pull to create a steady and predictable power source,” says Sujeeth Pai, Director Industrial Market, SKF India Ltd. “As countries like India aim for energy security and sustainability, solutions like tidal energy offer immense potential, particularly for coastal regions. At SKF, we are committed to enabling this transformation through our advanced bearing and sealing technologies, ensuring long-term efficiency and reliability of tidal energy systems. The Faroe Islands project serves as a model that could be replicated in regions with high tidal energy potential, contributing to a cleaner global energy mix.”

By framing it as a space program (that never leaves earth), the partners aim to emphasize the importance of exploring how we can harness the Moon’s energy to generate renewable energy through tidal forces—amidst a new space race where many are discussing the potential of extracting resources from space and other planets.

April 01, 2025 – Courtyard by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, marking the debut of the first Marriott International brand in Jharkhand. Nestled in the state’s most sought-after areas, renowned for the stunning Rock Garden and picturesque Kanke Dam, this 111-room hotel exemplifies refined living and modern design. It offers a welcoming escape for both business and leisure travelers with enhanced comforts, memorable experiences and a delightful mix of local and international cuisines. Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi is ideally situated just 35 minutes from Birsa Munda Airport and 30 minutes from The Ranchi Junction and Hatia Railway Stations.

“We are excited to mark a significant milestone in our expansion journey in India with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, our first in the vibrant, capital of Jharkhand. This launch underscores our commitment to entering promising markets like Ranchi, which offers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Courtyard by Marriott is designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers, seamlessly combining innovative technology, comfort, and style. We look forward to welcoming guests for business, leisure, or a blend of both, as we continue to bring our signature hospitality to new destinations”, said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International.

 Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi features 111 spacious rooms thoughtfully designed for the comfort and convenience of the modern-day traveler. Paired with smart amenities, each room blends sleek, contemporary aesthetics with functionality, offering conveniences such as high-speed Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a well-appointed writing desk. The room views alternate between the pristine, peaceful waters of the Kanke Dam and lush, manicured gardens, offering guests the option of a refreshing pause between work commitments.

Dining venues at the hotel comprise of an all-day dining – Viraasat, where a warm, bustling open kitchen and a tempting selection of local and international cuisines await to satisfy every palette. For a more casual experience, guests can head to the Courtyard Cafe, the hotel’s charming deli-style cafe, offering a selection of locally inspired small bites, freshly brewed coffees, and a variety of beverages. Whether it’s a quick mid-day break or, wrapping to a day well spent, Skyline, the rooftop bar offers a serene escape to soak in the sun by the poolside, or enjoy a sundowner with expertly crafted cocktails, refreshing mocktails, and a delectable menu.

To keep guests moving forward and help them pursue their passions while on the road, the hotel offers a fully equipped 24-hour Fitness Center with state-of-the-art workout machines. Complementing this is the rooftop pool, an open-to-sky retreat on the top floor, along with a dedicated steam area, where guests can relax while soaking in the breathtaking panorama of Kanke Dam.

Ideally located adjacent to the Nucleus Mall, the hotel offers guests easy access to the Rock Garden and Kanke Dam, which are must-visit attractions. Referred to as the ‘City of Waterfalls’ Ranchi, is dotted with lush green hills and generous waterfalls such as the Hundru, Dassam and Jonha Falls. The city also holds deeply religious roots, with the 17^th– century Jagannath Temple and the Pahari Mandir, situated on a hillside, offering panoramic city views. Those interested in the region’s rich tribal heritage can visit the Tribal Research Institute and Museum, which provides a deep dive into Jharkhand’s indigenous cultures, traditions, and artifacts.  Ranchi is renowned for its rich tribal heritage and cultural diversity, showcased through local festivals, art, dance and traditional crafts.

The hotel features 9,100 sq. feet of versatile event space, blending elegance and functionality for both corporate and social occasions. Vista Hall, the crown jewel, spans 4,123 sq. feet and accommodates up to 300 guests, making it the ideal venue for grand celebrations, conferences, and receptions. With cutting-edge AV equipment and customizable layouts, it promises seamless service and a sophisticated atmosphere. For more intimate gatherings, the Executive Chamber offers a private, 400 sq. foot sanctuary on the top floor, designed for up to 14 guests, ensuring both productivity and discretion. The 4,000 sq. foot Skyline Venue offers an enchanting open-air setting with breathtaking views of Kanke Dam, perfect for outdoor banquets, evening celebrations, or corporate events. With tailored catering and décor, it promises to elevate any occasion into a truly unforgettable experience.

On this exciting launch, Pramod Singh, Hotel Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, shared, “We are excited to introduce the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Jharkhand, bringing our signature warmth and hospitality to the heart of this vibrant state. At Courtyard by Marriott Ranchi, our trailblazing guests are welcomed with genuine care, thoughtful comforts and provided an effortlessly inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the region’s rich heritage or simply looking for a place to relax, we look forward to making your stay truly memorable.”

1st April, 2024: BenQ, leading DLP Projector Company has introduced their World’s First AI home cinema projector – W2720i equipped with a “revolutionary’ AI Cinema Mode, redefining home entertainment for AV enthusiasts.

BenQ’s W2720i’s Cinema Mode is engineered with in-built camera sensors to provide a seamless setup and superior picture quality by combining features such as real-time ambient brightness adjustment and scene-specific enhancements to provide an experience that’s tailored to every user.

The W2720i projector comes with In-built Android TV, delivering a premium streaming experience on a stunning big screen up to 200” and utilizing an efficient 4LED light source (RGBB), which has life time up to 30,000 hours.

BenQ’s exclusive CinematicColor™ technology (90% DCI P3) ensures that users see colours exactly as filmmakers intended, bringing their favourite content to life with incredible accuracy, while BenQ’s advanced HDR-PRO™ technology intelligently enhances contrast to reveal subtle details in both bright and dark scenes. W2720i has Local Contrast Enhancer for enhanced dynamic contrast in HDR10+ and HLG modes. It also offers customizable picture modes such as Filmmaker Mode and Cinema Mode.

The W2720i also offers a flexible projection setup that can project a 120” screen from just 2.7 meters away, and can go up to 200” diagonal.  With features like 1.3x zoom, Auto Screen Fit, 8-point Corner Fit, and Vertical Lens Shift, it can be installed conveniently. It also supports comprehensive entertainment options with Built-in Android TV with 4K streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+. The projector includes one HDMI 2.1 (4K 120 Hz), & two HDMI 2.0b, SPDIF, and eARC for 7.1 channel sound with Dolby Atmos pass-through, making it easy to connect to soundbars or speakers.

 Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India & South Asia, commented on the launch, “The W2720i represents a significant contribution towards making premium AI-powered home cinema experiences accessible to more Indian consumers. Its innovative AI Cinema Mode and superior colour performance demonstrate our commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to every home.”

April 1, 2025:Imagine a world where your dog enjoys a relaxing oil massage, your cat dozes in a sunlit nook after a play session with carefully chosen companions, and you receive adorable real-time updates while sipping coffee, knowing your furry friend is in expert hands. That’s not a dream — it’s Barker and Meowsky.

Redefining the way pet parents experience boarding and daycare, Barker and Meowsky (BnM) introduces boutique pet care that fuses luxury, love, and loyalty into every detail. With state-of-the-art, temperament-based groupings, and emotionally attuned staff, BnM ensures that pets aren’t just accommodated — they’re celebrated.

“Boarding shouldn’t feel like a compromise. At Barker and Meowsky, we’ve created a space where pets feel like they’re on vacation too,” says Pratik Sheth, Co-Founder of Barker and Meowsky. “From curated activities to one-on-one cuddles, every moment is designed with intention and care.”

More than just a facility, Barker and Meowsky feels like a second home — complete with spa-style grooming, calming aroma therapies, and premium nutrition options. Whether it’s a senior dog needing extra attention or an energetic pup eager for structured play, every pet’s stay is tailored to their unique personality and needs.

But it doesn’t stop at the pets. BnM caters to pet parents with concierge-like transparency — think personalized consultations, behavior tracking, and constant updates to keep them connected throughout their pet’s stay.

Beyond the walls of its plush facility, Barker and Meowsky is building a community of conscious pet lovers through events, workshops, and social gatherings, making it a lifestyle brand in the pet care space.

For those who believe their pets deserve more than the ordinary, Barker and Meowsky offer a luxury escape — a boutique boarding experience where wagging tails and purring hearts say it all.

1st April 2025: The Haryana Chapter of CREDAI NCR proudly announces the appointment of its new Executive Committee for the term 2025-2027, following the successful elections held at 5th Floor of PHD House, New Delhi. The newly elected team is poised to bring transformative leadership, foster industry growth, and drive positive policy changes to create a robust and sustainable real estate ecosystem in Haryana.

The new Executive Committee is as follows:

• President: Shri Manish Agarwal.
• Vice Presidents: Shri Lalit Jain, Shri Pankaj Goel, Shri Pankaj Singla.
• Secretary: Shri Arpit Goel.
• Joint Secretary: Shri Anubhav Jain.
• Treasurer: Shri R.C. Gupta.

Visionary Leadership for a Progressive Future

The newly elected leadership is committed to bolstering the real estate sector in Haryana with a vision focused on transparency, innovation, and sustainable development. The team aims to actively engage with government authorities, industry stakeholders, and homebuyers to streamline processes, encourage ethical practices, and address key challenges in real estate development.

“Our primary goal is to make Haryana a benchmark state for real estate development by fostering a transparent, efficient, and investment-friendly environment. With policy advocacy, infrastructure enhancement, and sustainable development at our core, we will work towards making housing and commercial projects more accessible and affordable for all,” said Shri Manish Agarwal, President, CREDAI Haryana.

CREDAI Haryana remains dedicated to ensuring ease of doing business, accelerating approvals, and promoting technological advancements in real estate. The new leadership also plans to focus on environmentally responsible urbanization, ensuring that future developments align with the principles of green and smart infrastructure.

Commitment to Stakeholders and Industry Growth – The new Executive Committee will undertake key initiatives to boost investor confidence and champion regulatory reforms that benefit Real Estate Developers and Home-Buyers alike. With a focus on Collaboration and Innovation, the team aims to reinforce CREDAI Haryana’s position as a leading voice in the Real Estate Industry of Haryana.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University said, “The rapid technological advancements defining Industry 4.0 require an education system that is agile, interdisciplinary, and deeply integrated with real-world applications. For India to realize the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, institutions must focus on equipping students with a combination of critical thinking, technological proficiency, and entrepreneurial mindsets. The future of education lies in creating adaptive, skill-based learning frameworks that prepare students not just for existing jobs, but for careers that will emerge in the next decade. Galgotias University is committed to developing a curriculum that bridges the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that our students become industry leaders and innovators.”

1^st April, 2025: CareEdge Ratings’ Credit Ratio, which measures the ratio of upgrades to downgrades, strengthened to 2.35 times in H2 FY25, up from 1.62 times in H1 FY25. During this period, there were 386 upgrades and 164 downgrades.

 The upgrade rate increased to 14% from 12% in the first half, driven by sectors that benefited from strong domestic consumption and government spending. Meanwhile, the downgrade rate dropped 200 bps to 6%, driven by asset quality concerns in NBFCs catering to microfinance and unsecured business loans, alongside pricing pressures faced by small-sized entities in the Chemical and Iron & Steel sectors, as well as export-focused Cut and Polished Diamond players.

 Sachin Gupta, Executive Director and Chief Rating Officer, CareEdge Ratings, shared his insights on the evolving economic landscape, stating, “Despite global headwinds, the credit ratio for CareEdge Ratings’ portfolio strengthened in the second half of FY25—a testament to the resilience of India Inc. However, the journey ahead is far from smooth. The imposition of US tariffs could disrupt momentum for export-driven sectors, particularly those reliant on discretionary spending, while also sparking intense price competition from other affected economies. This uncertainty could keep private sector capital expenditure on the sidelines until clearer signals emerge. That said, not all is bleak—trade agreements and rupee depreciation could offer much-needed relief to exporters. At the same time, Corporate India’s strong, deleveraged balance sheets act as a sturdy shield against external volatility.”

 CareEdge Ratings’ credit ratio for the manufacturing and services sector has seen a notable rebound, with its credit ratio rising from 1.21 in H1 FY25 to 2.06 in H2 FY25. The uptick reflects improving business fundamentals, particularly among mid-sized, domestic-focused entities, even as global headwinds persist. Ranjan Sharma, Senior Director, CareEdge Ratings (Corporate Ratings), noted the broad-based nature of this recovery, stating, “The improvement in credit ratio was evenly spread across both investment grade and sub-investment grade rating categories, driven by mid-corporate players leveraging strong domestic demand. Large corporates, too, maintained a healthy credit ratio, continuing their stable performance from previous periods. The sectors leading the upgrade wave included capital goods, automotive and automotive components, and real estate, all of which benefited from rising consumption and momentum in infrastructure. The services sector also witnessed sustained improvement, with hospitality and healthcare continuing their strong upward trajectory, while pharmaceuticals remained a consistent performer, reinforcing its long-standing resilience.”

 However, not all industries rode the wave of optimism. Basic and commodity chemicals, smaller iron & steel players, and export-focused CPD entities faced credit downgrades. The chemicals sector struggled with pricing pressures, while smaller steel manufacturers faced heightened competition from Chinese imports. Meanwhile, some trading and distribution entities also found themselves grappling with market volatility.

 The credit ratio of the infrastructure sector witnessed a continued uptrend in H2FY25 to 3.94, with the Transport Infrastructure and Power sectors leading the upgrades. Rajashree Murkute, Senior Director at CareEdge Ratings (Infrastructure Ratings), highlighted, “Key factors driving these upgrades include the successful commissioning of projects, particularly in the road Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) segment and solar power generation. Additionally, timely payments from most state distribution utilities have accelerated deleveraging for power producers and transmission infrastructure providers. A shift in ownership to financially strong sponsors or Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) has also played a pivotal role in enhancing credit quality for both, project assets as well as developers. However, challenges persist. Delays in receipt of requisite approvals, project execution and weak order books have increased working capital pressures for some mid-sized EPC players, compromising their credit profile. Besides, increased leverage due to top-up debt has weakened the financial flexibility of certain project assets, posing additional risks.”

 The Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector experienced a sharp moderation in its credit ratio, declining from 2.75 in H1 FY25 to 1.07 in H2 FY25, reflecting emerging stress in select lending segments. While the sector remains fundamentally strong, challenges in asset quality and profitability have affected certain areas. Sanjay Agarwal, Senior Director at CareEdge Ratings (BFSI Ratings), attributed the decline to pressures in the microfinance and unsecured business loan segments, stating, “The increase in loan sizes, coupled with rising debt levels per borrower, has heightened the financial strain on MFI borrowers, leading to asset quality concerns for NBFCs in this space. Consequently, NBFCs catering to microfinance and unsecured business loans are expected to witness elevated credit costs at least until H1FY26.” Despite these headwinds, the overall credit outlook for the BFSI sector remains stable, supported by healthy capitalisation levels among NBFCs and banks, which continue to provide a strong buffer against potential stress.”

 In summary, while Corporate India continues to hold its ground, CareEdge Ratings expects the credit ratio to remain range-bound in the near term, navigating the crosscurrents of global headwinds. The resilience of Indian corporates is reinforced by strong and deleveraged balance sheets, providing a crucial buffer against external shocks. While the strength of domestic demand will serve as a key anchor, the unfolding global tariff war and geopolitical uncertainties will shape the road ahead.