Mumbai, 23rd April 2025:  Shiprocket, India’s leading eCommerce enablement platform, has entered premium category shipping with its partnership with CriticaLog, a logistics firm that provides customized critical logistics solutions, including luxury goods shipment.  This partnership signals Shiprocket’s entry into the very niche category of gold and diamond jewellery shipping.

With extensive planning and execution, CriticaLog ensures zero pilferage, packaging, storage in strong rooms, and safe and secure transportation. CriticaLog’s expertise in handling time-sensitive and high-value shipments, combined with Shiprocket’s advanced logistics technology, will ensure a seamless shipping experience for jewellers.

This service is already live across 5000+ pincodes, and covers all major metros, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Multiple merchants selling diamond, gold and silver jewellery, gold and silver coins as well as other high-value items, are already using this service.

Easing logistics for small jewellers

The country’s gold and diamond trade contributes to over 7 % of GDP, with over 3 lakh players. The explosion in the B2C space will increase this number exponentially through eCommerce. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the gems and jewellery sector are at the forefront of this growth, but require assistance for logistics and eCommerce.

Through this partnership, Shiprocket is set to make jewellery shipping easy for merchants while ensuring that each item is handled with care. Each package would be handled securely with CriticaLog’s expertise in handling high-value products. Shiprocket is offering pick up from 250 cities with 59 operational hubs across 40 cities and towns in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Pune and Chandigarh.

Shiprocket has already completed multiple orders in the month of March’25 on Shopnek.com. . The average value per shipment is Rs 90,000, further reinforcing the ability to ship high-value products securely. The service is currently being offered for prepaid shipments up to Rs 5 lakhs and with the cash on delivery option up to Rs 49,999.

Commenting on the partnership, Saahil Goel, MD & CEO, Shiprocket, said, “At Shiprocket, we’re focused on building the rails that help every merchant of Bharat, whether in a small town or a metro, and help them grow faster through eCommerce. Our partnership with CriticaLog is a step in that direction, especially for jewellers who need precision and trust in logistics. It levels the playing field and lets smaller sellers compete with the biggest names out there in the market.”

Shiprocket is a tech platform that empowers sellers with seamless high-speed delivery integration, advanced checkout solutions, and cutting-edge marketing tools. This partnership will enable merchants to ship their high-value orders through the same trusted Shiprocket network that is already relied upon by over 4 lakh merchants across the country.

India’s GCC ecosystem is growing rapidly, driven by factors such as a diverse talent pool, high digital literacy, cost advantages, and the involvement of many industries including IT, AI/ML, and data engineering. As India becomes the preferred destination for GCCs, the market is expected to be worth $110 billion by 2030. This growth will lead to the creation of approximately 1.5 lakh jobs by 2026, with the GCC workforce projected to reach 3 million by 2030. A significant portion of these jobs, around 1 lakh, will be entry-level positions for freshers, contributing to economic growth.

Tier-two cities are playing an important role in expanding the Indian GCC sector. These cities offer a growing talent pool, affordable infrastructure, lower attrition rates, and cost savings. Initially focused on transactional services, GCCs now support key sectors such as engineering, cybersecurity, and customer experience for multinational companies. It is estimated that 30-40% of new GCC jobs will be created in these cities over the next three to four years.

The Indian job market is changing, with increasing demand for skills in AI, ML, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, UI/UX, and DevOps. This shift is also creating demand for specialized roles such as robotics engineers, prompt engineers, AI ethicists, XR developers, and ethical hackers, highlighting the innovation-driven nature of the GCC sector.

Beyond technology, industries like manufacturing, financial services, retail, healthcare, travel, and hospitality are also contributing to India’s diverse employment growth. Women currently make up 40% of the GCC workforce in India, and this figure is expected to rise as inclusion efforts continue. While the overall gender ratio in the GCC workforce will remain stable, India is expected to see a 3-5% improvement in gender diversity, as companies prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

With the economy on an upward path and the GCC sector aligned with India’s self-reliance goals, significant investments are being made in upskilling programs. These programs focus on deep-tech skills, leadership development, niche expertise, and soft skills to prepare the workforce for global markets.

However, challenges remain, including salary expectations, digital skill gaps, cybersecurity risks, talent retention, and regulatory complexities. Addressing these issues will require proactive measures such as simplified SEZ policies, improved digital infrastructure, strong data protection laws, and streamlined tax frameworks.

Today, India stands as a GCC powerhouse. With continued focus on skill development and supportive policies, the country holds great promise for its workforce and businesses.

 is growing rapidly, driven by factors such as a diverse talent pool, high digital literacy, cost advantages, and the involvement of many industries including IT, AI/ML, and data engineering. As India becomes the preferred destination for GCCs, the market is expected to be worth $110 billion by 2030. This growth will lead to the creation of approximately 1.5 lakh jobs by 2026, with the GCC workforce projected to reach 3 million by 2030. A significant portion of these jobs, around 1 lakh, will be entry-level positions for freshers, contributing to economic growth.

Tier-two cities are playing an important role in expanding the Indian GCC sector. These cities offer a growing talent pool, affordable infrastructure, lower attrition rates, and cost savings. Initially focused on transactional services, GCCs now support key sectors such as engineering, cybersecurity, and customer experience for multinational companies. It is estimated that 30-40% of new GCC jobs will be created in these cities over the next three to four years.

The Indian job market is changing, with increasing demand for skills in AI, ML, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, UI/UX, and DevOps. This shift is also creating demand for specialized roles such as robotics engineers, prompt engineers, AI ethicists, XR developers, and ethical hackers, highlighting the innovation-driven nature of the GCC sector.

Beyond technology, industries like manufacturing, financial services, retail, healthcare, travel, and hospitality are also contributing to India’s diverse employment growth. Women currently make up 40% of the GCC workforce in India, and this figure is expected to rise as inclusion efforts continue. While the overall gender ratio in the GCC workforce will remain stable, India is expected to see a 3-5% improvement in gender diversity, as companies prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

With the economy on an upward path and the GCC sector aligned with India’s self-reliance goals, significant investments are being made in upskilling programs. These programs focus on deep-tech skills, leadership development, niche expertise, and soft skills to prepare the workforce for global markets.

However, challenges remain, including salary expectations, digital skill gaps, cybersecurity risks, talent retention, and regulatory complexities. Addressing these issues will require proactive measures such as simplified SEZ policies, improved digital infrastructure, strong data protection laws, and streamlined tax frameworks.

Today, India stands as a GCC powerhouse. With continued focus on skill development and supportive policies, the country holds great promise for its workforce and businesses.

Mumbai, 23 April, 2025: Continuing the impressive growth momentum in the state of Maharashtra, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd (ROHL) inaugurated it’s 14th property in the state with the launch of Regenta Bharti Resort in the picturesque hill station of Mahabaleshwar. The property will be managed by Royal Orchid Hotels based on a management contract under the brand “Regenta” offering guests a seamless experience in the tranquil vibes of Mahabaleshwar.

 Set amidst 52 acres of land in southern Maharashtra, Regenta Bharti Resort is located a mere 1 hour drive from Pune, and set within the lush natural beauty of the Sahyadris. Guests can enjoy the lush strawberry farms, scenic rivers, majestic waterfalls, and towering peaks in close proximity of the resort.

 The property features a thoughtfully curated mix of accommodations catering to diverse guest preferences including Deluxe Rooms, Premium Rooms , Junior Suites, Suite Rooms and a spacious multi-bed rooms ideal for group travellers..

 The resort offers a vibrant mix of experiences including a water park, amusement park rides, and a dedicated kids’ play zone, making it a perfect retreat for families. For those seeking relaxation, the resort features a well-equipped fitness centre, spa, and a swimming pool set amidst scenic views.  Ideal for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), the property offers many recreational indoor and outdoor activities like chess, carrom, table tennis, and cricket, offering something for every guest. With banquet facilities and lush green lawns spanning over 40,000 sq. ft, the resort can host grand celebrations like weddings and family events against the stunning backdrop of the Sahyadri mountains. Ample parking for up to 200 cars with valet services, and a variety of dining options including an all-day restaurant ensure every event is as seamless as it is memorable. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures such as sky cycling, bungee jumping, UTV rides, ziplining, 360° human cycling, and giant wheel rides, all conducted under professional supervision to ensure both safety and excitement

 Speaking on the launch, CK Baljee, CMD of Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., said, “Mahabaleshwar is a popular weekend retreat for city dwellers for its comfortable proximity from Mumbai and Pune. A key highlight of the Regenta Bharti Resort is its wedding and MICE infrastructure, which will drive tourists from all over the country. The tranquil mountain landscape and cultural richness makes it a perfect to carve out a niche for experiential travel with our distinctive hospitality. We are excited to bring ROHL in this region along with Ravindra Bharti”

 Ravindra Bharti – MD and CEO of Bharti Group added, “We are delighted to partner with Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) to introduce a new hospitality experience in Mahabaleshwar. Our joint venture combines ROHL‘s signature blend of modern luxury and bespoke service, an essential factor for meeting evolving guest expectations.”

Star player Harmanpreet Singh who led the Indian men’s hockey team to a medal in 2024 at the Paris Olympics was often referred to by his team mates as ‘Sarpanch Sahab‘ owing to his poised and calm demeanour in stressful situations. The title signified not just the respect he has earned but the quality of leadership he has demonstrated. As for the origin of the term, it has its roots in the Panchayati Raj. This system in particular plays a crucial role in shaping leaders who can steer grassroots governance and improve healthcare, education, and community welfare. Much like a captain, a Sarpanch leads from the front to improve lives in underserved regions. As the country prepares to observe National Panchayati Raj Day on April 24, meet ‘Sarpanch Sahibas’ who are shaping their communities through active local leadership and smashing gender barriers as well.

1. Geetanjali Tirki – Mukhiya, Hesapoda Panchayat, Gola Block, Ramgarh, Jharkhand

Geetanjali Tirki, the 28-year-old from Koramba village in Hesapoda Panchayat, emerged as a grassroots leader through active involvement in SHGs and community meetings during her husband’s tenure as Mukhiya. Her exposure to local issues, which include poor healthcare, lack of sanitation, limited education, and job scarcity, shaped her decision to contest elections. As Mukhiya, she strengthened healthcare by activating Ayushman Arogya Mandir, improved sanitation with school toilets, and installed Jalminars for drinking water. She focused on road connectivity and expanded Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) work to reduce migration. With support from Transform Rural India (TRI), a development design organization working on transforming India’s bottom 100,000 languishing localities into flourishing communities, she implemented participatory planning tools and held special Gram Sabhas to build transparency. Her vision for Hesapoda includes quality education, empowered women and dignified living conditions for all households.

2. Pratima Kujur – Mukhiya, Garyajor Panchayat, Kurdeg Block, Simdega, Jharkhand

At 47, Pratima Kujur leads the Garyajor Panchayat in Kurdeg Block with a grounded approach shaped by years of committed work. Formerly a bookkeeper for ten Self-Help Groups (SHGs), she helped families secure pensions, ration cards and essential services. Encouraged by the Village Organization, she contested and won the Mukhiya post. She addressed teacher shortages by urging local authorities to act, which improved schooling. In a remote hamlet lacking roads and water, she organised community labour to build access roads and set up water systems. To support hill farmers without market links, she formed a Market Committee and launched a weekly haat. With support from TRI, she coordinated training on health, education, and livelihoods. Her vision focuses on accessible services, local employment, and reducing migration through practical, community-led action.

3. Vimla Nag – Sarpanch, Gumma Village, Talnar Panchayat, Chhindgarh Block, Chhattisgarh

Vimla Nag, 38, Sarpanch of Gumma village in Chhindgarh Block, has brought women’s participation to the forefront of village governance. Driven by the need to address education, health, sanitation and livelihoods, she began her term by implementing toilet construction schemes, improving hygiene and dignity for women. She established an Anganwadi Centre for Maternal and Child Health and led awareness drives to promote SHG participation. Backed by TRI, she underwent leadership training and played a key role in building a collaborative framework that brought together Panchayati Raj Institutions, local officials, and community groups. This approach increased public engagement, especially among women, in Gram Sabhas and development planning. For the first time, local women contributed directly to governance. Vimla envisions a village where every woman earns, every child has access to education, and migration is no longer a compulsion, but a choice.

4. Prabala Kerketta – Mukhiya, Dighia Panchayat, Bero Block, Ranchi District, Jharkhand

Prabala Kerketta, a 31-year-old trained nurse from Tengariya village, became a trusted figure in Dighia Panchayat through her efforts during the COVID-19 crisis. She arranged food, helped the sick access hospitals, and supported vulnerable families during emergencies. Known for her regular participation in Village and Cluster Level Federation meetings, she was later elected as Mukhiya. Prabala addressed migration and unemployment by linking people to plantation schemes like Birsa Harit Gram Yojana, agriculture programmes and welfare schemes such as MNREGA, pensions, Didi Badi nutrition and housing support for widows. She improved infrastructure by constructing roads, and drainage systems, and ensuring water access in schools. In education, she helped girls overcome financial and bureaucratic hurdles to enter Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas.

In a unified celebration of World Earth Day, three leading organizations—DLF Mall of India, AIPL and Ambience Mall—hosted independent yet complementary initiatives across the National Capital Region. While each programme operated separately, together they amplified the shared goals of environmental stewardship, community well-being, and sustainable action, inspiring citizens to embrace a greener, healthier future.

DLF Mall of India celebrates its 9th Anniversary with a Community Run championing fitness, environment, and road safety

DLF Mall of India commemorated its anniversary by hosting the “9th Anniversary Run.” The event brought hundreds of participants from all age groups, including women and children, who ran for fitness, environmental conservation, and road safety. Aligned with World Earth Day, the event was organised under the ‘Active Noida’ initiative in collaboration with the Noida Traffic Police. The initiative also highlighted the mall’s commitment to fostering community well-being and sustainability.

The event featured three categories—10 km, 5 km, and 3 km runs and was flagged off from DLF Mall of India in Sector 18, and also concluded there. Participants received medals, trophies, e-certificates, and saplings to reinforce environmental stewardship. Fitness First energised the crowd with Zumba sessions and interactive fitness challenges.

Shibli Khan, VP and Cluster Head, DLF Mall of India, Noida, remarked, “Celebrating our 9th anniversary alongside World Earth Day reflects our dual commitment to community health and planetary care. This run is more than a fitness endeavour—it’s a platform to drive awareness about road safety and the urgent need to protect our environment. We’re thrilled to see such spirited participation.”

AIPL and Green India Society Join Hands to Drive Sustainability and Protect the Planet

AIPL, in collaboration with the Green India Society, successfully hosted an engaging and educational event at the Ground Floor, AIPL Business Club. The event aimed to celebrate sustainability and nurture the planet, encouraging conscious living and collective responsibility through immersive and meaningful experiences. The vibrant gathering reflected a growing interest in environmental responsibility.

The event brought together individuals of all age groups to promote sustainability and environmental awareness through a series of interactive and engaging activities centered around the theme “Play. Learn. Pledge.” Corporate executives from leading firms such as Deloitte, British Airways, Lummus, and Kuehne + Nagel housed within the AIPL Business Club actively participated in activities like Seed Ball Making, a Water Conservation Quiz, and a life-sized Snake & Ladder Game with an eco-conscious twist. An Environment Crossword Challenge further sparked curiosity and tested attendees’ knowledge of green practices.

Additionally, the event featured the Bin Ball Game, which raised awareness about waste segregation, and a Pledge Wall where individuals committed to adopting sustainable practices. To enhance the experience, sustainable product displays, selfie cutouts, and a creatively designed atmosphere blended joyful learning with a deeper environmental message.

Ishaan Singh, Director AIPL said, “At AIPL, we believe that real change begins with awareness and action at the community level. This initiative aimed to engage, educate, and empower individuals to adopt sustainable habits in fun and meaningful ways. The enthusiasm we witnessed today reaffirms our commitment to building not just green infrastructure but a greener mindset for tomorrow.”

Ambience Mall Collaborates with Adidas to Drive Sustainability and Protect the Environment

On the occasion of Earth Day, Ambience Mall, in association with Adidas, is hosting a Plantation Drive at Ambience Island (outside Ambience Mall, Gurgaon). The initiative, taking place on April 22, aims to promote sustainability and environmental consciousness by encouraging individuals to take small yet impactful steps toward a greener future.

As a symbol of collective commitment to a greener future, numerous saplings will be planted in the open. As part of the initiative, saplings will be planted in the open green space. This drive represents a shared vision between the two brands to create long-lasting environmental impact and inspire individuals to take small, conscious steps for a better future.

Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group – At Ambience Mall, we believe that sustainability begins with awareness and action. Our collaboration with Adidas for this Earth Day Plantation Drive is a step towards inspiring the community to reconnect with nature and take responsibility for the environment. Through such initiatives, we aim to create meaningful experiences that not only raise awareness but also foster a lasting impact.

Separate Efforts, Shared Vision

Though organized independently, these initiatives collectively highlighted the multifaceted approach needed to address environmental and social challenges. DLF Mall of India linked fitness to eco-awareness, AIPL made sustainability engaging, and Ambience Mall emphasized tangible action. Together, they demonstrated how diverse strategies—from runs to games to tree planting—can inspire communities to prioritize the planet.