Mumbai, India, 19 February 2025: Colliers’ Q4 2024 APAC Cap Rates report found consumer spending surged during the Q4 festive season, benefiting the retail sector in various markets including Auckland, China, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Bengaluru.

In Bengaluru, the commercial supply was well behind uptake resulting in lower vacancy while Mumbai’s office supply has increased sixfold year-on-year but was still below the uptake in 2024 resulting in a strong market.

In Bengaluru, along the main business corridors rental and capital rates for Grade A commercial offices witnessed significant upward movement. Outer Ring Road (ORR), North Bengaluru, and Whitfield saw a higher volume of Grade A floorplate transactions due to availability and specifications resulting in range-bound cap rates between 8.0% – 8.5%.

The commercial uptake in Mumbai has witnessed a strong YoY improvement in 2024, with demand growth in the last quarter being the highest during the year. However, the increased supply kept the rental increases in check except for certain micro-markets as more options became available.

“Further, Bengaluru has witnessed improved transaction volumes in organized retail, with rising capital values in high street areas attributed to increased consumer activity during the festival season, leading to higher revenue shares. In Mumbai, industrial transaction volume has been slightly lower on a YoY basis. However, the supply has increased in the market by 15% in Mumbai. Based on this, cap rates have been stable in Q4 2024. CPI inflation jumped significantly to 5.22% in December 2024, with the preceding 3-month average at 5.63%. This increase in inflation is attributed to the significant growth in urban inflation from Q3 2024.” says Ajay Sharma, Managing Director, Valuation Services, Colliers India.

As per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Knowledge creation and research are critical to growing and sustaining a large and vibrant economy, uplifting society, and continuously inspiring a nation to achieve even greater heights. Research is needed to tackle the challenges of climate change, population dynamics, and management, expanding the digital marketplace, and the rise of AI/ML. High-quality interdisciplinary research is the need of the hour that must be done in India and simply cannot be imported or adapted if India is to become a leader.

MDI Gurgaon is known for its excellence in research with several notable alumni serving the industry and academia in this spirit. Scholars are working in the areas of Diversity & Inclusion, Industry 5.0, and Sustainability to develop new theoretical frameworks that can be adopted by practice to come out with new solutions. India is also facing a shortage of qualified faculty members in its top universities and management institutions. A report from the HRD Ministry revealed a large number of vacant faculty positions in IITs, IIMs, and other government-funded institutes. Meanwhile, 40% of faculty positions are vacant in-state public universities.

While a strong academic foundation is crucial, a PhD is often the defining factor in securing a faculty position. NEP 2020 has enabled such guidelines to encourage bold experiments that will help accelerate India’s STEM journey. UGC now encourages undergraduates to take up a PhD in any area of their choice, irrespective of their UG degree.

While a PhD is often associated with academia, its value, particularly in management research, extends far beyond university walls.

A PhD isn’t simply a ticket to becoming a professor; it opens doors to a wealth of opportunities. Think of prestigious consulting firms, influential multinational corporations, cutting-edge research organizations, and impactful government advisory roles. Why? Because a PhD in management equips you with highly developed problem-solving, analytical, and leadership skills – skills that are incredibly sought after across diverse industries.

But the benefits go even deeper. A management PhD provides the unparalleled opportunity to drive innovation in business practices, contribute meaningfully to sustainable business, and play a critical role in shaping public policy and global business strategies. It’s about becoming a leader in your field, impacting real-world change, and pushing the boundaries of management knowledge. In short, a management PhD isn’t just a degree; it’s a powerful platform for making a real difference.

Hyderabad, 18th February 2025: Tenali Double Horse Group – the house of authentic and premium quality culinary essentials; as part of its initiative to foray abroad with an aggressive global expansion plans, participated in Gulfood 2025, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. After successfully showcasing its products at INDUSFOOD 2025 in January at Greater Noida, the brand now marks its second consecutive participation at Gulfood, reaffirming its commitment to reaching international markets and introducing Indian food heritage to a global audience.

Beyond the expo, Tenali Double Horse is also making significant strides in the Middle Eastern market with the establishment of its newly launched office in Dubai. This move marks a strategic step towards expanding distribution, building strong local partnerships, and reaching new customer segments across the region. Our goal is simple—to cross international borders and take our legacy forward. With Gulfood and our Dubai office, we are unlocking more doors to new horizons, added Shri Mohan Shyam Prasad, CMD of Tenali Double Horse Group.

During his visit to the Tenali Double Horse stall at the prestigious Gulfood 2025 Expo, Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Food Processing Industries, Government of India, experienced the brand’s signature urad laddu, a traditional delicacy crafted with premium-quality ingredients. Delighted by its rich, authentic taste, he remarked, “Delicious and mouth-watering!” The moment was a proud testament to Tenali Double Horse’s unwavering commitment to delivering time-honored flavors that transcend borders, celebrating India’s culinary heritage on a global stage.

This year, Tenali Double Horse has introduced Millets to its Gulfood lineup, recognizing the growing global shift towards healthier food choices. “With nearly 38% of consumers already adapting to millets, it is clear that the world is moving towards more sustainable and nutritious options. We are here to be a part of that transformation, said Shri Mohan Shyam Prasad. The inclusion of millet-based products aligns with the brand’s mission to offer a perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

As Tenali Double Horse continues its journey from Rural to Global, the brand remains focused on innovation, integration, and customer-centric growth. With a strong presence in India and expanding footprints worldwide, the company is committed to bringing high-quality, health-focused food products to every corner of the world. Visitors at Gulfood 2025 are invited to experience the essence of India’s finest offerings at the Tenali Double Horse stall, where tradition meets excellence.

New Delhi, 18th February 2025 – Bharat Tex 2025 is not just a textile exhibition; but a testament to India’s rich heritage and forward-thinking approach to sustainability, which is also an integral theme of the event. The focus on sustainability at Bharat Tex 2025 is a conscious effort to redefine the future of the textile industry. The Ministry of Textiles, through its various initiatives, is actively promoting sustainable practices, with upcycling emerging as a key solution to tackle textile waste. This effort is further strengthened by the introduction of certification for upcyclers, ensuring that their work receives the recognition and support it deserves.

The Ministry is taking concrete steps to support upcycling at a national level. Through its statutory body, the Textiles Committee, the Ministry has introduced a certification system for upcycles. This initiative is designed to provide formal recognition to artisans and entrepreneurs who transform textile waste into valuable products. The certification process ensures that upcycled products meet quality and sustainability standards, making them more accessible to Government and private sector buyers. By promoting certified upcyclers, the Ministry aims to integrate sustainable practices into mainstream textile production, benefiting both the environment and the artisans involved. To further support upcyclers, the Ministry has launched an online dashboard that showcases a state-wise list of registered upcyclers. This platform provides visibility to artisans and helps connect them with potential buyers, ensuring that their work receives the appreciation and market access it deserves.

One of the most significant aspects of this initiative is the inclusion of upcycling in the Sustainability & Innovation Pavilion, also known as Vastra Katha. This dedicated space within Bharat Tex 2025 serves as a platform for upcyclers to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. By bringing together artisans, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, Vastra Katha aims to highlight the importance of sustainable practices and encourage collaboration in the industry.

Another notable feature is Fabrics of India, which is a tribute to India’s textile legacy. This is an awe-inspiring upcycled installation that embodies the essence of sustainability, women’s empowerment, and India’s vibrant textile diversity. Fabrics of India is a breathtaking tapestry of colors, textures, and patterns that showcase the vast variety of fabrics produced across the country. However, beyond its aesthetic appeal, this installation carries a deeper meaning. It is made entirely from discarded fabric scraps collected from different households and communities, stitched together by skilled women artisans. Each piece represents a story, a tradition, and a craft that has been passed down through generations.

The installation draws inspiration from traditional Indian techniques like appliqué, Kantha, and dori embroidery—art forms that have long embraced the concept of upcycling. These methods, practiced for centuries, have allowed Indian artisans to breathe new life into old fabrics, turning them into functional and decorative pieces. In many ways, Fabrics of India is not just an art piece but a tribute to these time-honored sustainable practices. This wall of upcycled fabric also symbolizes India’s unity in diversity. Just like the people of India, each piece of fabric is unique in its color, design, and texture. Yet, when brought together, they form a seamless whole—an artwork that reflects the collective spirit of the nation.

A unique aspect of Fabrics of India is the role of women artisans in bringing this vision to life. Each fabric scrap in the installation has been handcrafted by rural women, many of whom rely on textile work as their primary source of livelihood. By participating in this initiative, these women are not only preserving traditional crafts but also gaining financial independence.

By upcycling textile waste, these women are helping to reduce environmental impact while ensuring that traditional crafts remain relevant in the modern textile landscape. Their work is not only an artistic expression but also a step toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.

New Delhi, 18 February 2025: BattRE Electric Mobility, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, today unveiled its latest offering – the LOEV+, a high-performance electric scooter designed to meet the demands of modern urban commuters. With a combination of advanced battery technology, cutting-edge safety features, and a sleek design, the LOEV+ sets a new benchmark in the electric mobility space.

The LOEV+ is powered by an advanced 2kWh Amaron battery, coupled with a 13-amp charger. Both the battery and charger are IP67-rated, offering exceptional water and dust resistance. The battery uses premium 21700 cells (5Ah), ensuring long-lasting performance, while a quick-charging capability allows the battery to be fully charged in just 2 hours and 50 minutes. The LOEV+ comes with a 3-year warranty on both the battery and charger, giving users peace of mind and reliability.

Safety remains a top priority for BattRE, and the LOEV+ incorporates several innovative features, including a combined disc-brake system, 180mm ground clearance, and a parking switch to prevent accidental acceleration while the scooter is parked. Additionally, a saree guard ensures enhanced safety for pillion riders.

The LOEV+ also boasts advanced rider assistance features such as Cruise Control, Hill Hold Assist, and a fully CAN-enabled communication system. These technologies improve ride stability, comfort, and overall user experience.

Beyond performance, the LOEV+ stands out with its sporty and minimalist design. Featuring 12-inch alloy wheels, LED dual lamps for improved visibility, and a choice of five premium colors – Starlight Blue, Stormy Grey, Ice Blue, Midnight Black, and Pearl White – the LOEV+ is as stylish as it is practical.

“It is not only the most affordable high-speed scooter in the country but also one of the most feature-packed scooters, powered by the most advanced battery from Amaron,” said Nishchal Chaudhary, CEO & Managing Director of BattRE Electric Mobility. “This scooter is designed with the future of urban commuting in mind, combining top-tier performance, safety, and design. We believe it will play a pivotal role in the transition towards sustainable mobility.”

The BattRE LOEV+ offers three riding modes—Eco Mode (35 km/h top speed, 90 km range), Comfort Mode (48 km/h top speed, 75 km range), and Sports Mode (60 km/h top speed, 60 km range). The scooter also features smart connectivity via an informative speedometer displaying key details such as distance to empty (DTE) and state of charge (SoC).

National, 18 February 2025: India’s outsourcing landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with 81 percent of organisations planning to increase their outsourcing efforts over the next three to five years, according to Deloitte’s latest report, The Outsourcing Compass: Decoding Strategies of Today. This shift is driven by the increasing need for technological advancements, access to specialised expertise, and cost efficiency. As India is set to become the third-largest economy by 2027, the country is reinforcing its position as a key hub for outsourcing and advanced service functions.

The nature of outsourcing is shifting, with organisations moving beyond traditional transactional and back-office services to higher-value, strategic services. AI and automation are playing an increasingly crucial role in outsourcing agreements, with 98 percent of organisations depending on service providers for AI and GenAI capabilities. To optimize these collaborations, companies are embedding AI-specific clauses in outsourcing contracts, ensuring better performance tracking, cost optimisation, and risk mitigation. This shift has led to a rise in outcome-based contracts, now preferred by 36 percent of organisations over traditional FTE-based contracts, reflecting the demand for value-driven, innovation-led collaborations.

The report highlights that better alignment with business strategy (28 percent) has overtaken cost savings as the primary driver for outsourcing. This transition is fuelled by advancements in AI, automation, and digital transformation, which enable organisations to outsource complex functions such as product development, supplier evaluation, and strategic brand management.

Outsourcing models are evolving to include a blend of GBS centers, third-party providers, and flexible talent solutions. According to the report, 55 percent of organisations use GBS centers for governance and oversight while relying on third-party providers for execution and efficiency optimisation. Additionally, 35 percent of organisations have adopted the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, which enables them to scale capabilities while maintaining long-term operational control. These models offer businesses greater agility, cost efficiency, and seamless integration between IT and business functions.

Yatin Patil, Partner, Deloitte India, said, “Supported by a thriving start-up ecosystem and continuous upskilling initiatives, India is shaping the future of outsourcing by driving cost efficiency and innovation. Nearly 70 percent of organisations engage with non-traditional service providers to optimize costs while gaining access to new-age technologies and innovative solutions.”

While geopolitical stability remains a key consideration for outsourcing decisions, India continues to be a preferred destination due to its expanding services sector, reliable business environment, and strong policy framework. Despite global uncertainties, India’s expertise in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and vendor management has positioned it as a scalable and secure outsourcing hub.

The report indicates that strategic supplier collaborations have enabled organisations to achieve an average annual cost savings of 10–25 percent from their outsourced contracts. Organisations balancing strategic service providers and niche providers have achieved even higher savings of 15–35 percent. As outsourcing engagements become more complex, organisations are strengthening their vendor management strategies, with 45 percent of mature outsourcing firms now operating dedicated Vendor Management Offices (VMOs) to enhance governance, supplier risk management, and outsourcing effectiveness.

As organisations continue to redefine their outsourcing strategies, India is well-positioned to lead the next phase of global outsourcing expansion. With technological advancements, evolving vendor management practices, and a highly skilled workforce, India offers long-term business sustainability, innovation, and cost efficiencies. The findings from the report reinforce India’s role as a cornerstone in global business strategies, driving transformation across industries worldwide.

by Sudha Reddy Foundation Sets New Guinness World Record for Peace

Hyderabad: February 2025: A remarkable demonstration of collective purpose unfolded in Hyderabad today as over 2,111 individuals converged to orchestrate the world’s largest human image of a dove, the quintessential emblem of peace. This extraordinary accomplishment, a testament to the vision of the Sudha Reddy Foundation, has been officially recognized as a Guinness World Record. The event, held at the Lords Institute Of Engineering & Technology from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, saw participants, clad in white, coalesce into the breathtaking aerial tableau.

This unprecedented undertaking, orchestrated by the Sudha Reddy Foundation, not only showcased meticulous logistical planning and seamless collaboration but also served as a potent symbol of unity and a fervent call for peace in our contemporary world. The dove, a universally acknowledged icon of harmony and goodwill, was strategically chosen as the centerpiece of this endeavor to catalyze global discourse on the imperative of fostering peace and mutual understanding across communities.

Philanthropist Sudha Reddy, the driving force behind the foundation, expressed profound pride in this historic achievement. “To witness thousands unite in common cause for such a deeply resonant purpose is a source of immense gratification,” she affirmed. “This record transcends mere statistical significance; it stands as a beacon of hope and a powerful testament to the enduring human aspiration for peace.”

The Foundation gratefully acknowledged the indispensable contribution of the enthusiastic participants, whose unwavering dedication and collective spirit were instrumental in transforming this ambitious vision into a tangible reality. This Guinness World Record achievement serves as an inspiration to individuals and organizations worldwide, encouraging them to embrace the principles of peace and cultivate a spirit of solidarity within their respective communities. The Foundation hopes that this event will galvanize a global movement of similar initiatives, propagating the message of peace and harmony far and wide.

The Sudha Reddy Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to positive societal impact through initiatives in social welfare, education, women and child empowerment, and community development. The foundation works across diverse areas with notable partnerships with organizations like UNICEF, the Global Gift Foundation and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation highlight the foundation’s diverse commitments.

Bengaluru, 18th Feb 2025: Astrikos.ai, a pioneer in Enterprise Infra AI, unveiled its bold rebranding today, announcing its evolution to drive intelligent, sustainable Enterprise Infra AI solutions across the globe.

The new brand identity reflects Astrikos’ mission to empower enterprises, cities, and governments with AI-driven technologies that optimize operations and drive sustainable growth, for a smarter world. It symbolizes Astrikos’ evolution from an innovator in AI technology to a leader in Enterprise Infra AI solutions, combining a human-centric approach with advanced technology.

“The new branding and logo position Astrikos as a visionary leader in the smart enterprise infrastructure solutions space, effortlessly merging intelligence, sustainability, and innovation. By embracing actionable insights, proactive decision-making, and seamless integration, the rebranding strengthens Astrikos’s commitment to equipping cities, industries, and communities with future-ready solutions. Combining forward-thinking strategies with measurable impact, Astrikos emerges as the partner of choice for organizations driving transformative, sustainable progress.” said Chinmay Hegde, Co-founder, CEO, and Managing Director of Astrikos.ai. He further added, “The rebranding cements Astrikos’ role as a trailblazer in operational excellence, shaping intelligent ecosystems, and empowering leaders to create a smarter, safer, and more sustainable world.”

Astrikos.ai serves a diverse range of sectors, including the Public Sector, Data Centers, Urban

Local Bodies, Smart Cities, Smart Campuses, Manufacturing Units, Healthcare Infrastructure, Public Safety & Emergency Response and Airports. Its esteemed clientele includes over five smart cities across India, the Americas, MENA, and ASEAN, data centers of private sector banks, food and beverage organizations, and major infrastructure and infrastructure management companies, among others. By harnessing the power of predictive analytics, digital twins, and machine learning, the company empowers stakeholders to build resilient, efficient, and sustainable infrastructures for the future.

National, 18th February 2025: India is rapidly emerging as a global frontrunner in the Web3 space, with the technology poised to impact industries valued at over $1 trillion, according to a new report by Primus Partners. The report titled,’ Web3 in 2025: Key Trends and Potential Use Cases to Watch Out For’ reveals its growing popularity in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and media, with India playing a pivotal role in driving Web3’s global evolution.

Web3 is revolutionizing sectors with its decentralized solutions, which enable greater transparency, security, and efficiency in operations. In India, more than 60% of corporations are either currently researching or implementing Web3’s blockchain technologies to streamline activities, build trust, and reduce operational costs. The country has a good share of developers in the global Web3 community. With widespread and mainstream adoption expected to occur by the end of 2025, Web3 is set to impact industries valued at over $1 trillion.

Key Insights include:

•  India’s Web3 Developer Share: India leads the global Web3 developer community with 12%, ranking first among emerging markets. In 2024, it attracted the highest number of new crypto developers recorded yet.
•  Market Growth: The global Web3 market is projected to reach $23.3 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 43.7% from 2021.
•  Investment in Infrastructure: Major platforms and developing ecosystems like Polygon have received over $450 million in funding, while 5ire secured $221 million for blockchain interoperability and rapid scaling.
•  Regulatory Developments: The EU’s MiCA regulation seeks to establish a broad Web3 crypto framework for over 500 million citizens, while the U.S. crypto task force plans to shape regulations for digital assets worth $1 trillion.
•  Adoption Trends: By the end of 2025, it is anticipated that 25% of global enterprises will adopt Web3 technologies, up from 5% in 2022.

Web3’s Application Across Industries:

•  Agriculture: Blockchain can reduce food fraud by 30%, improving traceability and ensuring safer food supply chains.
•  Manufacturing & Logistics: Web3 can lower logistics costs by up to 20% by enhancing tracking and efficiency, while blockchain cuts paperwork by 50%, making transport operations more streamlined.
•  Education: With blockchain’s document verification, concerns about the authenticity of academic credentials can be addressed, increasing trust for about 70% of employers.
•  Real Estate: Tokenization can reduce transaction costs by 10-15% and speed up the process by 50%, while smart contracts can automate rental payments and reduce late payments by 40%.
•  Governance: Blockchain-based digital identities will soon be used by close to 1 billion people in providing details for secure verification, while blockchain implementation in land registries can reduce the chances of duplication, disputes, theft, and fraud.
•  Healthcare: Blockchain can decrease healthcare fraud by 50% and improve patient trust through enhanced data security and transparency.

Government’s and Industry’s Interplay in Promoting Web3 Growth:

The Indian government is actively fostering Web3 growth through initiatives like the Block chain-as-a-Service model developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which provides infrastructure for permissioned blockchain applications. It is also developing a regulatory framework and promoting public-private partnerships to unlock Web3’s potential. Also, sector-specific solutions are being created, particularly in agriculture and healthcare, with projects like Vishvasya- Block Chain Technology Stack and the National Block Chain Strategy. These efforts, involving over 30 active government departments, are building a trusted digital infrastructure to support broader Web3 adoption.

Challenges to overcome:

Web3 adoption in India faces deep challenges like regulatory uncertainty, low consumer trust, and complex supply chains. 62.4% of industry leaders call for clearer regulations, while Web3 is still seen as tied to speculative trading. Despite these obstacles, India has a strong foundation for Web3 growth, with block chain and token systems set to drive innovation, transparency, and inclusivity in its digital economy. India is well-positioned to lead the Web3 revolution and transform necessary digital interactions.

Quotes of Thought Leaders:

Shravan Shetty: “India’s proactive steps in nurturing Web3 adoption, such as the Block Chain-as-a-Service model, are pivotal in providing the infrastructure needed to support permissioned block chain applications and drive innovation. Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for realizing the full potential of Web3 in India, especially in sectors like agriculture and healthcare, where tailored solutions can drive significant advancements.”

New Delhi, February 2025: Cornitos, a leading snack innovator in India, introduces Crusties in innovative and exciting new flavors. The wavy-shaped crispy snack is launched in Korean Chilli, Fiery Peri Peri, Sour Cream & Onion flavors along with Cheese Balls in Classic Cheese balls and Honey Chilli Potato Balls. Crusties is a bold and exciting range of corn and potato-based snacks that are baked, not fried, and crafted using healthy corn oil.

Adding to the uniqueness of Crusties each pack now features a comic strip on the back, designed to revive the joy of comic reading among snack lovers. This innovative touch brings an extra layer of entertainment, making snack time even more enjoyable.

Vikram Agarwal, Managing Director, Cornitos, said, ” We wanted to create something special and offer snack lovers an option that’s not only delicious but also fun. Crusties is a combination of bold flavors, a superior corn-based recipe, and a touch of nostalgia. It is more than just a snack; it’s an invitation to an experience. Every crunch takes you back to the world of comic adventures, turning every snack into a story waiting to unfold”. He further adds, “With introducing few products in the market and judging by the excitement and response, we feel we have succeeded”.

Crusties is relaunched to offer innovative and trendy flavours, that are popular among snack lovers. With in-depth research by the R&D team and assessing the gaps in the market, Cornitos along with its quality experts focused on developing a snack that balances health and taste, while redrafting flavors to match current trends, with dedication leading to the selection of Korean, Peri Peri and Sour Cream & Onion, the popular choices among consumers.

Each flavor of Crusties is carefully crafted to deliver a unique taste sensation: Crusties Korean Chili, inspired by bold Korean cuisine, combines smoky gochugaru spice with a hint of sweetness for an irresistible punch. Crusties Fiery Peri Peri delivers a zesty blend of African bird’s eye chili and aromatic spices, perfect for those who enjoy a spicy thrill. For a classic and satisfying taste, Crusties Sour Cream & Onion blends the creamy richness of sour cream with the sharp zest of onion.

Crusties Classic Cheese Balls offer a golden, airy crunch coated in rich, creamy cheese seasoning, making them a comforting delight. Meanwhile, Crusties Honey Chili Potato Balls strike the perfect balance between sweet honey and fiery chili, creating a bold and irresistible contrast.

Available at shop.cornitos.in and at leading retail outlets, e-retail platforms, and modern trade stores for an economical price of just Rs 10.
With the latest innovation, Cornitos is redefining the snacking experience by blending irresistible crunch with bold, vibrant flavors & unique shapes, offering consumers a guilt-free and engaging way to satisfy their cravings.

Cornitos invites consumers to join the Crusties craze and discover a world where snacking is more than just a habit—it’s an adventure.