Unix Hosts Exclusive Channel Partner Meet in Thailand
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: Unix, a leading consumer electronics and mobile accessories brand, recently hosted its Channel Partner Connect 2025 in Thailand, bringing together over 325 channel partners from across India. The event served as a platform to reflect on key milestones achieved in 2024, discuss industry trends, strengthen partnerships, and outline future business strategies
The gathering featured insightful discussions, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, offering channel partners key updates on market dynamics, product innovations, and business expansion plans. The event also recognized the contributions of partners and reinforced Unix’s commitment to fostering long-term collaborations. As part of the experience, attendees explored Thailand’s renowned attractions, including Coral Island, Gems Gallery, the Golden and Marble Buddha temples, and Safari World.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Imran Kagalwala, Co-founder of Unix, said, “Our channel partners are integral to making Unix products accessible to consumers across India. This event provided an opportunity to connect with them directly, exchange insights, and strengthen our collaboration in navigating the evolving market landscape. It is also our way of expressing gratitude for their continued support and trust in Unix.”
Unix has built a robust offline distribution network, comprising over 70 super stockists, 4,000 distributors, and a retail presence in 500 cities. With a significant share of its business coming from Tier II and Tier III cities, the company continues to expand its reach while introducing new initiatives to empower and support its partners.
Verint Expands Global Innovation Center in India
BANGALORE, India, February 12, 2025 – Verint (NASDAQ: VRNT), The CX Automation Company™, announced today that its Global Innovation Center (GIC) in Bangalore, India, is expanding, marking a significant milestone in Verint’s commitment to innovation and growth.
The decision to establish the Bangalore location as a GIC and invest in expansion is a direct result of the significant momentum Verint has attained in CX Automation and its unique ability to deliver tangible AI Business Outcomes, NowTM. Verint serves some of the world’s most iconic brands, including approximately more than 80 of the Fortune 100. The new GIC model will further equip Verint to meet the evolving needs of customers with the most current AI-powered solutions.
Workforce Expansion in India
Verint’s presence in India – a renowned global technology talent hub – spans more than 20 years. With a workforce that has grown significantly year over year at the Bangalore location, Verint plans to continue to expand the GIC to approximately 1,000 employees by the end of 2026. This recruitment drive will focus on attracting top-tier talent in AI, data science, research and more, contributing to local employment and economic development.
“As the CX Automation space continues to evolve, Verint is well positioned to accelerate development of best-in-class solutions that deliver stronger, faster AI business outcomes at scale,” says Verint’s Rob Scudiere, chief technology officer. “Our goal with Verint’s Bangalore GIC is to attract top-tier talent, fostering a diverse team of innovators who will continue to shape the future of customer engagement.”
Berger Paints celebrates century-long legacy and relocates headquarters within Kolkata
12th February 2025 India: Berger Paints India Ltd, India’s 2nd largest paint and coatings company, celebrates a century of operations in India and strategically relocates its headquarters to New Town, Kolkata’s burgeoning business hub. Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Industries, Commerce & Enterprises and Department of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare of the Government of West Bengal, Dr. Shashi Panja along with the senior management of Berger Paints officially inaugurated the new headquarters in New Town. The eight-storeyed office building spans approximately 190,000 square feet, resembling the shape of a paint can.
Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO, of Berger Paints India Limited commented, “From our inception in Bengal to celebrating a centenary in India, we’ve consistently reinforced our commitment to the state’s socio-economic growth. Our new headquarters in New Town, Kolkata, epitomizes our focus on creating an agile, future-ready workspace. Starting with a modest facility in Howrah in 1923, we have evolved into the second-largest player in Bengal by market capitalization. While many companies relocated, we’ve firmly embedded ourselves in Bengal’s socio-economic fabric. Of our three operational units, two—ICI India’s Rishra unit and STP’s Singur unit—were strategically acquired, and upgraded to state-of-the-art manufacturing hubs with advanced technologies and expanded capacities. Our acquisitions focus on responsible talent retention, ensuring seamless integration and continuity of the workforce.
Operating from Bengal, we have successfully penetrated global markets, establishing ourselves as the 7th largest architectural coatings company worldwide. Over the past 100 years, we have been able to secure the grounds by the dint of which we have been able to be part of some of the most prestigious projects of the country. From painting the walls of the Indian Parliament House to the Vande Bharat train, Kolkata Metro, the iconic Wankhede Stadium, and many other prestigious landmarks, we have left our mark on some of India’s most iconic infrastructure projects. As the 2nd largest decorative paints company in India, we are scaling our retail presence with a targeted focus on the high-potential Southern and Western India.”
Berger Paints’ new headquarters is a vibrant reflection of the brand’s core values, with a rainbow-inspired color scheme that showcases innovation and creativity. Each floor of the building represents a band of VIBGYOR. As a leader in the paints and coatings industry, the office’s dynamic aesthetic highlights its commitment to color, branding, and forward-thinking excellence. The office has an integrated museum that exhibits a curated collection of exceptional art pieces. The visionary workspace has been meticulously designed to cultivate an environment that stimulates creativity and empowers to envision limitless possibilities. The in-built art gallery also showcases Berger Paints’ exclusive My Color App, offering visitors an interactive, seamless experience to effortlessly explore and select shades with precision and ease. Largely powered by solar energy, Berger Paints’ new headquarters is a LEED-certified Platinum green building. Berger Paints organized a nationwide competition for Fine Arts students whose creative artwork adorns the interiors of the building.
Berger Paints has evolved from an INR 100-crore organization to a robust INR 12,000-crore multinational enterprise, achieving remarkable growth while retaining its headquarters in Bengal. The Company currently holds a market share of 22%. Berger Paints’ steadfast growth is demonstrated by a remarkable surge in its revenue from operations, from INR 6366 crores in FY2019-20 to INR 11,199 crores in FY2023-24. Ranked as the 7th largest architectural coatings company worldwide, Berger Paints operates 29 manufacturing facilities across India, Nepal, Poland, and Russia. Having achieved ₹10,000 crore revenue in its centenary year, Berger Paints aims to reach ₹20,000 crore by 2030.
With three operational manufacturing facilities in Bengal, Berger Paints plays a key role in driving employment opportunities across the state. The Kolkata-based multi-national Company employs a talent pool of 4,000+ professionals and has established a strategic association with over 5 lakh painters. The Company is poised to inaugurate a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Panagarh, West Bengal, following which it will repurpose its heritage Howrah plant—the longest-running operational paint facility—into a world-class innovation and R&D center. With its promoters based in Delhi, it is a unique organization as its professionally managed and run from its headquarters in Kolkata since its inception.
Berger Paints’ stellar trajectory is driven by its consistent efforts to deliver innovative solutions to its customers, over non-contextual product launches. The Company has been at the forefront of industry innovation, launching trailblazing solutions such as India’s inaugural tinting system, Colour Bank, the revolutionary Weathercoat Anti Dust with dust-repellent technology, and India’s first end-to-end painting service – Express Painting, Berger Paints Easy Clean, one of the most effective washable paints. The company offers a comprehensive selection of waterproofing solutions, including products like Home Shield and Dampstop, among others. Some of these products and services were introduced at a time when the sector’s adoption of such advanced technologies was minimal.
Thums Up Unites SRK & Allu Arjun for ‘Dum Hai Toh Dikha
New Delhi, 12th February 2025: Thums Up, Coca-Cola India’s iconic billion-dollar homegrown brand, has launched its latest campaign, “Dum Hai Toh Dikha”, a bold call to the youth who strive for greatness and thrive in the face of challenges. The brand brings in two cinematic legends—Shah Rukh Khan and Allu Arjun— for a power-packed campaign. Both icons epitomize the essence of “Dum Hai Toh Dikha,” embodying a relentless drive that mirrors Thums Up’s signature intensity.
For decades, Thums Up has stood as a symbol of unwavering strength and resilience, with its bold taste and unmistakable thunder making it the preferred choice of those who go all in. More than just a beverage, Thums Up has been a companion for those who never back down. With “Dum Hai Toh Dikha,” the brand amplifies this legacy, encouraging today’s generation to step up with determination and own their moment.
Sumeli Chatterjee, Category Head – Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “Thums Up has consistently championed those who rise to challenges, demonstrating their resolve through action. The new campaign ‘Dum Hai Toh Dikha’ reinforces this ethos, urging the youth to step forward and show the world what they’re made of. The unprecedented collaboration between Shah Rukh Khan and Allu Arjun makes this campaign extremely special for us. The two cinematic legends epitomize the perseverance and strength that Thums Up embodies, making this collaboration a perfect match.”
Allu Arjun said, “Collaborating with Thums Up has been an incredible experience. The campaign resonates deeply with my belief in forging your path and proving your worth. I’m excited to be part of a campaign that inspires this generation to take on challenges fearlessly.”
Shah Rukh Khan said, “I’ve always believed that real strength is about standing tall in the face of adversity. That’s what Thums Up has symbolized for years, and ‘Dum Hai Toh Dikha’ brings this belief to life in the most powerful way.”
Commenting on the creative insight behind the campaign, Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy India says “Dum Hai Toh Dikha is a power-packed challenge to India’s youth. In a world that tells them to wait, Thums Up tells them to go for it. Shah Rukh Khan and Allu Arjun unleash high-octane action, leading the charge as mentors who challenge the youth to take on the odds and prove their mettle. This a new era for Thums Up, the ultimate energizer for the youth.”
The campaign’s momentum continues to build, with 360° integrated experiences paving the way for more action—connected packs and an engaging digital platform set to roll out soon. With a legacy of bold campaigns, Thums Up continues to redefine storytelling, making the brand a cultural phenomenon that promises to captivate and inspire.
NxtWave Partners to Build World’s Largest Autonomous Vehicle Developer Community
New Delhi, February 12, 2025 — Furthering the impact of its SkillUp India 4.0, launched in partnership with NSDC, NxtWave, a pioneer in upskilling India’s youth in emerging technologies, has partnered with TIER IV, the pioneering force behind the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving headquartered in Japan, and the Autoware Foundation, world’s leading open-source software project for autonomous driving, to officially build World’s Largest Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Developer Community.
This groundbreaking partnership aims to position India at the forefront of the global Physical AI revolution. Under this partnership, Indian youth will be equipped with future-ready skills in the rapidly advancing autonomous vehicle sector, bridging the gap between academic curricula and industry requirements.
By integrating artificial intelligence with real-world physical systems, Physical AI is set to transform industries such as transportation, logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for AI-driven mobility solutions but also empowers young innovators with hands-on experience and globally relevant expertise to build intelligent autonomous systems that enhance efficiency, safety, and innovation.
Launched in the esteemed presence of Shri Ved Mani Tiwari (NSDC), Mr. Shinpei Kato (TIER IV,) and Mr. Christian John (the Autoware Foundation), this initiative marks a significant step toward bridging skill gaps and catalyzing innovation in AV technology. The AV Developer Community aims to tackle key challenges in India’s talent pipeline, including a lack of awareness about AV technology, an industry-academia disconnect, and the need for a globally competitive workforce in AI-driven mobility. Through this partnership, India is poised to lead the Physical AI revolution, attracting global investments, fostering research, and driving technological breakthroughs across multiple sectors.
Talking about the partnership at the event, Mr Rahul Attuluri, Founder and CEO of NxtWave said, “We are thrilled to announce this partnership, which aligns perfectly with our mission to create a future-ready workforce. By merging NxtWave’s extensive upskilling framework with TIER IV and Autoware’s cutting-edge open-source technology, we are confident in our ability to transform India’s position in AV and Physical AI innovation.”
Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC & MD, NSDC International, spoke at the event about the unique opportunity this partnership provides, stating, “This strategic partnership represents a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards technological leadership. By equipping our youth with cutting-edge autonomous vehicle skills, we are not just filling a talent gap – we are positioning India as a global hub for Physical AI innovation. This aligns perfectly with NSDC’s vision of creating a future-ready workforce that can drive our nation’s growth in emerging technologies.”
Sharing insights about the partnership, Mr Shinpei Kato, Founder and CEO of TIER IV, and Chairman of the Autoware Foundation, said “Our mission has always been to advance the deployment of autonomous driving technology. Through this partnership with NxtWave, we aim to channel our expertise into structured courses that provide both conceptual knowledge and practical application, fostering a new generation of innovators.”
Mr Christian John, President of TIER IV North America and Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee at the Autoware Foundation highlighted the importance of this collaboration, adding, “At the Autoware Foundation, we aim to advance open-source autonomous driving more through global collaboration. This partnership with NxtWave and NSDC creates a platform for Indian students to gain hands-on experience, contribute to cutting-edge research, and join a global AV developer community, accelerating innovation in autonomous mobility.”
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, the program will adopt both offline and online learning models and provide localized content in regional languages empowering students across India. NxtWave is further committed to integrating insights from the collaboration to refine its AV curriculum and introduce new specialized tracks.
The immediate outcomes of the launch are expected to include increased awareness of AV career prospects, core AV skills among youth and strengthened collaboration between industry and academia. In the long term, the initiative aims to create a robust talent pipeline, drive the emergence of new startups and research initiatives, and enhance India’s reputation as a hub for advanced autonomous systems development.
Beyond the AV sector, the initiative is expected to have ripple effects on adjacent industries such as logistics, healthcare, and agriculture. Potential applications include driverless trucks, autonomous medical drones, and autonomous tractors.
The initiative also aligns with the Indian government’s vision for emerging technologies, with the potential for regulatory frameworks and public-private partnerships to scale pilot projects into national initiatives.
Propelld Report: Karnataka Ranks 2nd in Education Loan Trends in India
Bangalore 12 Feb 2024: Propelld today unveiled its comprehensive report “Karnataka’s Education Loan Story – Trends, Insights and Impact”, spotlighting transformative trends in the state’s education financing landscape over the past five years. The report delves into significant growth areas, including a surge in women education loan applicants, the increasing demand for tech-driven upskilling to meet evolving job market needs, early-career professionals prioritizing short-term certifications, and the rapid rise of Tier 2 cities like Mysore, Belgaum, and Dharwad as emerging education hubs.
It further elaborates on the micro-trends driven by demography, gender, and course preferences across different cities in Karnataka from 2019-2024.
Brijesh Samantaray, co-founder, of Propelld, said, “Karnataka is witnessing a transformative shift in education financing, driven by a tech-first approach that replaces traditional brick-and-mortar models. We have disbursed 319.94 Cr of funds over the past 5 years in Karnataka. Only 6% percent of Propelld’s Non-Performing Assets comes from Karnataka, which speaks highly about the awareness among residents about the importance of higher education. The state is the second highest loan amount contributor among all Indian states. This has been made possible by government initiatives that have spurred significant progress in Gross Enrolment Ratio for higher education, even among tribal students and a thriving ecosystem of job opportunities and partnerships.”
Top 5 Cities with Most Loan Takers:
Bangalore
Mysore
Belgaum
Dharwad
Kolar
Speaking about the findings, Propelld co-founder Victor Senapaty said: “Digital lending innovations are bridging gaps, democratizing access to education financing, and driving inclusivity across socio-economic strata. Tier 2 cities such as Mysore, Belgaum, Dharwad, and Kolar are becoming strongholds for educational investments driven by improving access to quality education.
“The growing share of education loans for self-employed individuals marks a significant shift in lending. Traditionally excluded by conventional lenders due to income instability, these borrowers now benefit from digital lending and alternative credit assessments. Post-COVID, self-employed families increasingly recognize the value of higher education, leading to greater investments in their children’s futures. This trend highlights how digital transformation is making education loans more inclusive and expanding access for underserved groups.”
Tech-driven job market dominates course preference: The report provides insights into several upskilling trends including the demand for Data Science among mid-career learners although the number of general applicants for Data Science courses has dropped significantly.
Women in STEM and leadership
Speaking about the need to incorporate gender diversity in corporates, Bibhu Prasad Das, Co-founder, of Propelld, said: “Although the number of women education loan takers has witnessed a 30% growth in 5 years, there is a need to encourage women in their early career stage to grow and learn in their careers. Policy level changes, both at government and at corporate level, will be crucial to enable gender balance in the workspace over the next decade.”
According to the report, 18.6% of women in the 25–30 age group take a loan for upskilling, compared to 21% of men.
“The steady rise in female education loan borrowers, increasing from 26.32% in 2019 to 34.11% in 2024, signals a pivotal societal shift. This change likely stems from greater emphasis on women’s empowerment, increasing career aspirations, and growing acceptance of higher education for women, especially in the past five years. Targeted policies, awareness campaigns, and financial inclusivity efforts have brought about these numbers. As women’s participation continues to grow, the education financing market is evolving to meet their needs, indicating a broader cultural transformation where equal access to education is becoming a norm, fostering long-term social and economic progress,” said Bibhu.
Grand Closing of 30th Mines Environment & Mineral Conservation Week by Sri Jayajothi Cements
Hyderabad, 12th February 2025: The 30th Mines Environment & Mineral Conservation Week closing ceremony, hosted by Sri Jayajothi Cements Pvt Ltd (S.J.C.P.L), a part of the My Home Industries Pvt Ltd group, was successfully conducted. The event was organized in collaboration with the Mines Environment & Mineral Conservation Council. The ceremony took place at the Mallika Convention Hall in Shamshabad, with P.N. Sharma (Controller General – In Charge, Indian Bureau of Mines, Nagpur) as the chief guest.
Other notable attendees included Jayakrishna Babu (Controller of Mines (SZ), Indian Bureau of Mines, Bengaluru), V.S. Narang (Director – Technical, My Home Industries Pvt Ltd), Chandrasekhar Pandey (Director – Operations, My Home Industries Pvt Ltd), B.C. Gurivi Reddy (Chairman ME & MC 2024-25 & Senior Vice President – Works, S.J.C.P.L), E. Vasudevan (Convener ME & MC 2024-25, General Manager – Mines, S.J.C.P.L), Darshan Deep Bhardwaj (Co-Patron ME & MC 2024-25, DCO(M)(I/C), Vijayawada Region), Ram Kishan (Patron ME & MC 2024-25, DCO(M)(I/C), Hyderabad Region), and other distinguished guests.
The event began with a pledge to promote environmental conservation. Several stalls were set up to raise awareness. The dignitaries addressed the audience, highlighting the contributions and services of S.J.C.P.L. The event culminated with the presentation of awards in various categories. In addition, several cultural performances added to the excitement, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.
Q3 FY25 Financial Results of Vertoz Limited
Mumbai, February 12, 2025: Vertoz Limited (NSE: VERTOZ), a leading AI-driven MadTech and CloudTech platform, has declared its financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2024.
Performance Highlights for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024:
- Revenue for the quarter was Rs. 66.20 crore in Q3 FY25, compared to Rs. 55.23 crore in Q3 FY24, registering a growth of 19.86%.
- EBITDA stood at Rs. 8.28 crore in Q3 FY25, as compared to Rs. 6.05 crore in Q3 FY24, growing by 36.86%.
- PAT stood at Rs. 7.35 crore in Q3 FY25, compared to Rs. 4.51 crore in Q3 FY24, up by 62.97%.
Performance Highlights for the nine months ended December 31, 2024:
- Revenue for the nine months was Rs. 190.02 crore in 9M FY25, compared to Rs. 126.80 crore in 9M FY24, registering a growth of 49.86%.
- EBITDA stood at Rs. 24.04 crore in 9M FY25, compared to Rs. 16.57 crore in 9M FY24, growing by 45.08%.
- PAT stood at Rs. 19.64 crore in 9M FY25, compared to Rs. 13.18 crore in 9M FY24, up by 49.01%.
Operational Highlights:
- Revenue from MadTech and CloudTech segments contributed ~80% and ~20%, respectively.
- 80% of business comes from international markets, while ~20% is domestic.
- Expanded geographical presence with a new branch in Pune.
- Projected revenue growth of ~30% for FY25 and FY26.
- Revenues of the company have been growing at 27% and profits at 17% for the last five years.
- During the quarter the company had run campaigns for all leading media agencies and corporates.
- The campaigns were predominantly catering to BFSI, Real estate, Hotels, and other hospitality services.
Management Comments:
Commenting on the performance, Mr. Ashish Shah, Chief Executive Officer of Vertoz Limited, said:
“We are delighted to declare strong growth rates during the quarter. Significant growth has been observed and projected in both domestic and international markets.
We are in advanced talks to acquire a company operating in North American markets, a region of significant global economic activity. This market comprises over 22 million small and medium-sized enterprises, each spending an average of over $24,000 annually on related services, representing $80 billion opportunity for us.”
Maha Govt Invites Developers for 3360 Acres of MSRTC Land
Mumbai, February 12, 2025: Shri Pratap Sarnaik, Hon. Minister of Transport, Government of Maharashtra announced that the State’s MSRTC bus depots will be taken on a fast-track mode and developed across District, Taluka, and Rural areas level and for the entire development, the Government would float about 150 to 160 tenders soon. He was speaking at the NAREDCO NextGen Conclave 2025 organized by NAREDCO NextGen in Mumbai.
Shri Sarnaik delivered a keynote address, highlighting that MSRTC holds a vast land bank of approximately 3360 acres. He further informed that to develop the MSRDC Bus Depots, the Government has appointed a well-known architect Mr Hafeez Contractor to come up with a presentation to develop the plan. He emphasized the need to develop these strategically located landbanks and urged the State’s developers to come forward to develop the commercial or residential premises.
Stating that MSRTC will be made a Planning Authority to execute the project, Mr Sarnaik said, “MSRTC will be made a planning authority and it will sanction the plans under one roof. For the same, MSRTC’s technical team capacities will be built.”
Appealing the developers to look for real estate development opportunities beyond the urban areas or select cities, the Minister stated that the developers should take an interest in developing real estate even in the rural areas to develop the State. He informed that the land bank in areas such as Lonavala- – Khandala, and Mahabaleshwar where new DCPR rules are not applicable due to forest and no-development zones, but a major portion of the land will come under the ambit of new DCPR, which will provide adequate FSI for new development. Additionally, efforts are underway to extend the land lease period from 60 years to 99 years.
Shri Sarnaik also officially launched the NAREDCO NextGen ‘Digital Learning Hub’ at the prestigious NAREDCO NextGen Conclave 2025, held at the JIO Convention Centre in Mumbai. This innovative online learning platform is designed for young real estate professionals, offering comprehensive insights into emerging trends, cutting-edge technologies, and the latest policy updates. The platform aims to collaborate with top institutions across the country to offer certification programs, empowering the next generation of real estate leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
NAREDCO NextGen Conclave 2025, a transformative event was designed to empower the next generation of real estate leaders. It provided a dynamic platform for young visionaries, industry disruptors, and emerging decision-makers to engage in thought-provoking discussions, foster innovation, and collaborate on strategies for a sustainable and inclusive future. The event discussed various Real Estate trends, growth avenues, the AI revolution, and the impact of Budget 2025 on the real estate industry.
In his welcome address Mr. Jay Morzaria, National Chairman, NAREDCO NextGen welcomed the August gathering of dignitaries to the NAREDCO NextGen Conclave 2025. This conclave is a platform for deliberating on ideas, collaboration, and progress. The discussions will tackle key challenges and trends, from policy and finance to technology and evolving buyer needs.
Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Chairman of NAREDCO, highlighted the positive impact of RERA in dispelling misconceptions about the real estate industry. He emphasized how the regulatory framework has brought greater transparency, accountability, and trust among stakeholders. Furthermore, he spoke about the role of innovation in shaping the future of the industry, particularly through the younger generation. He acknowledged that fresh and creative ideas often emerge from individuals under the age of 30, especially in the realm of social media and digital transformation. He encouraged industry leaders to learn from the younger generation, leveraging their insights and technological expertise to drive progress and enhance market outreach.
Mr Rajan Bandelkar, Vice Chairman, NAREDCO praised the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister’s efforts to unleash a wave of transformation in the Indian Real Estate Industry through reforms and tax rationalization. He also cautioned the industry to take note of issues such as global warming, SWACHH Bharat, and a holistic use of AI for technology adoption. Mr Bandelkar also anticipated the sector’s continued focus on affordable housing as a demand driver.
Mr Hari Babu, President, NAREDCO stated that the new tax regime will usher fresh investments by the taxpayers into the real estate sector impacting the demand for affordable housing. He further emphasized the need for greater women’s participation in real estate, recognizing their role in driving innovation and industry growth. He also highlighted the impact of urban migration, stressing the need for sustainable planning to meet rising housing and infrastructure demands in cities.
The newly elected committee members of NAREDCO NEXTGEN were announced during the event, bringing a strong leadership team to the organization. Mr. Rishabh Siroya, Vice President, NAREDCO NEXTGEN; Mr. Vishal Thakkar, Vice President, NAREDCO NEXTGEN; Mr. Pratik Kataria, Vice President, NAREDCO NEXTGEN; Mr. Aditya Boddu, Vice President-Elect, NAREDCO NEXTGEN; Mr. Prathap Reddy Eamani, Vice President-Elect, NAREDCO NEXTGEN and Mr. Chintan Vasani, Joint Treasurer, NAREDCO NEXTGEN will assume responsibility of their respective roles.
The inaugural panel discussion of the event, titled “Financing the Future: Exploring Innovative Avenues for Growth,” brought together distinguished experts whose insightful contributions illuminated the evolving landscape of financial innovation and its crucial role in driving sustainable growth. The discussion revolved around how Institutions and large-scale investors have accelerated real estate consolidation over the past 14 years. Once a speculative and reckless market, it has evolved into a structured, investable asset class. A clear distinction between institutional and smaller-scale investments marks a fundamental shift in real estate.
The second Panel Discussion, titled “Real Estate 2030: Shaping the Future of Urban Landscapes,” proved to be an insightful and pivotal conversation, bringing together the titans of the industry. Esteemed thought leaders and visionaries delved into the dynamic forces shaping the future of urban development, engaging in a rich dialogue that illuminated the path forward for cities in the coming decade.
The event concluded with the announcement of NAREDCO Maharashtra Annual Members Meet 2025 on 15th and 16th February 2025 at Taj Cidade De–Ga, where over 200 members will be attending the meet.
Luxury Home Sales Worth Rs4 Crore and Above Rise by 53 Percent
Delhi NCR: Gurgaon’s real estate market is on a strong growth trajectory, with rising demand and consistent price appreciation. Its prime location, excellent connectivity, and world-class infrastructure make it a preferred choice for homebuyers and investors alike.
Delhi NCR: According to the real estate consultancy firm CBRE, 19,700 luxury housing units were sold in 2024, significantly rising from 12,895 units in 2023. This 53% surge in sales of homes priced at ₹4 crore and above highlights a growing preference for premium properties, driven by high-net-worth individuals and affluent buyers.
The Evolution of Gurgaon Real Estate Infrastructure:
Gurgaon has long been a pioneer in shaping India’s luxury real estate market, and its evolution continues to redefine urban living. It is a major corporate and IT hub that attracts affluent professionals, entrepreneurs, and expatriates. The city’s infrastructure has seen consistent upgrades, enhancing its appeal as a prime destination for high-end housing. Prime locations such as MG Road, Golf Course Road, and Sohna Elevated Corridor have undergone significant transformations. For instance, Golf Course Road emerged as a hub for high-end consumers, with developments offering world-class living experiences.
Why Dwarka Expressway is the Next Frontier?
Mr. Adil Altaf, Managing Director, Trinity Infratech said, “The 25% rise in Delhi NCR housing sales, as highlighted by PropEquity, is largely driven by the area’s thriving real estate market. The key factors are developments in infrastructure, corporate presence, and seamless connectivity. Gurugram, in particular, has experienced a growing housing demand for luxury and premium segments. This demand has been fueled by working professionals, entrepreneurs, and expatriates. The city’s seamless connectivity to Delhi, international airports, and corporate hubs makes it an apt destination for homebuyers. The reason behind the growth in the Gurugram real estate market is supported by its high-quality lifestyle offerings, Grade A projects, and high return on investment. Developers focus on timely property delivery, innovative amenities, and eco-friendly housing solutions, enhancing its position as a top housing choice in the NCR. This positive trend is also expected to persist in 2025, with the Gurugram housing market reaching new heights.”
Dwarka Expressway is now positioned as the new vector of growth. This region is experiencing a dynamic shift driven by rising land values and infrastructure development. The higher land appreciation along the expressway has paved the way for better-quality construction, enhanced amenities, superior design development, and improved maintenance standards post-handover. One of the key factors making Dwarka Expressway a promising hotspot is its proximity to the airport, which offers unparalleled connectivity for both residents and businesses. Additionally, the evolving infrastructure ensures seamless access to resources, business hubs, and other hotspots like HSIIDC Global City, Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Bharat Vandana Park, and Dwarka Golf Course, making it a highly desirable location for premium homebuyers.
Speaking on this trend, Mr. Sudeep Bhatt, Director Strategy- Whiteland Corporation, shared insights, “The NCR region, particularly Dwarka Expressway, is rapidly transforming into a dynamic ecosystem offering unparalleled connectivity, world-class amenities, and exceptional investment opportunities. With the expressway setting new benchmarks for luxury living, it has become a symbol of the evolution in Gurgaon’s real estate market. We at Whiteland Corporation have signed an agreement with Marriott International Inc. to bring Westin Residences to Gurugram. As India’s largest branded residences, this project under the Westin brand embodies our dedication to excellence. It offers residents a distinctive fusion of wellness, bespoke services, and world-class amenities, crafting a holistic living experience within hospitality-inspired homes. This development goes beyond building better homes, it redefines the very essence of living, meeting the aspirations of today’s discerning global citizens.”
Madhur Gupta, CEO, of Hero Realty Pvt Ltd. said, “The region’s robust infrastructure development, featuring world-class amenities and transportation networks, has established it as a highly sought-after real estate destination. The Dwarka Expressway has seen a 79% price surge over the last five years, highlighting its exceptional investment potential. The growing demand for high-end residential and commercial spaces in the NCR has driven up property values, rendering the Dwarka Expressway a lucrative investment opportunity for both investors and end users.”
The expressway’s journey mirrors that of other prominent regions in Gurgaon. Where Golf Course Road set the benchmark for ultra-luxurious living and Sohna Road addressed the needs of mid-segment buyers, Dwarka Expressway is now striking a balance, offering well-justified prices with developments that reflect an emphasis on quality and exclusivity.
“Investing in Dwarka Expressway is no longer a speculative venture, but rather it is a calculated move backed by consistent growth and infrastructure development. For discerning investors, it offers a rare combination of steady appreciation and modern amenities. Dwarka Expressway’s evolution reflects the changing dynamics of NCR’s real estate market. It has all the ingredients for long-term success, strategic connectivity, robust infrastructure, and a forward-looking development approach,” remarks Mr. Harinder Dhillon, Senior Vice President of Sales, at BPTP.
Luxury Housing and the Future of Dwarka Expressway
The rising demand for luxury properties has been fueled by a shift in buyer preferences toward spacious homes with advanced amenities. The evolving landscape of Dwarka Expressway aligns perfectly with these preferences, offering homes that cater to modern lifestyles while benefiting from the area’s robust infrastructure and increasing land value. Developers in the region are focusing on creating integrated communities that blend convenience, aesthetics, and sustainability.
“Dwarka Expressway’s connectivity to major business districts and its proximity to Delhi gives it a distinct advantage over other micro-markets. It offers the perfect blend of convenience and luxury, attracting a diverse range of homebuyers,” notes Mr. Robin Pahuja, Co-Founder and Director of ElitePro Infra.
A Future Poised for Growth
The transformation of Dwarka Expressway is a testament to the region’s growing significance in the real estate market. As infrastructure, connectivity, and land value continue to improve, the expressway is set to become a magnet for premium investments. This progress reflects Gurgaon’s legacy of evolving with consumer demands and leading the way for India’s luxury housing market.