JB Nagar Emerges as Andheri East’s New Luxury Residential Hotspot

JB Nagar Metro Station

Andheri East, one of Mumbai’s most dynamic real estate markets, has been experiencing steady growth in property prices and infrastructure development. According to data from 99acres.com, property prices in Andheri East have witnessed consistent appreciation, driven by its commercial significance and expanding infrastructure. Over the past year, property values in the area have increased by 3.3%, while in the last decade, they have surged by 16.4%.

Within this prime property market, JB Nagar has emerged as one of the most sought-after addresses for luxury residential properties. JB Nagar’s transformation into a desirable residential location reflects the growing trend of urban development and the shifting preferences of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who now seek premium living options in proximity to business districts.

As a micro market, JB Nagar benefits from its proximity to business hubs along with the domestic & international airports. The proximity of JB Nagar to key commercial hubs such as SEEPZ, MIDC, and the Andheri-Kurla Road, has made it an attractive option for professionals and entrepreneurs working in the vicinity. Additionally, its strategic location along the Western Express Highway, close to the airport, and well-connected to the Andheri Railway Station, makes it an ideal base for those who want both convenience and exclusivity.

Over the last few years, several top-tier developers have seen potential in the area, focusing on high-end residential projects aimed at affluent buyers.

According to a spokesperson from Chandak Group, “JB Nagar’s transformation into a premium residential area is a clear reflection of the evolving real estate dynamics in Mumbai. As professionals look for residences that offer a perfect balance between convenience and luxury, JB Nagar provides exactly what they need; proximity to workspaces, excellent connectivity, and an elevated lifestyle. We see a tremendous opportunity in this locality, and we are excited about the prospects.”

As per Housing.com, property prices in JB Nagar range between ₹23,529 and ₹25,174 per sq. ft., with the average price standing at ₹24,567 per sq. ft.

The demand for luxurious homes has surged due to the increasing number of professionals and business leaders who want to live closer to work but in an upscale, serene environment. Unlike other parts of Mumbai, where space comes at a premium, JB Nagar offers a rare combination of centrality and expansive plots, making it an attractive option for luxury living.

The trend has also been fueled by the significant development in infrastructure, including the Metro Line 7, which has further enhanced connectivity between JB Nagar and other key parts of the city.

One of the key factors behind JB Nagar’s emergence as a hotspot for luxury living is the availability of premium amenities such as sprawling parks, world-class schools, shopping malls, fine dining establishments, and spas. These features offer an unmatched lifestyle, making the area even more attractive to potential homeowners who value comfort and exclusivity.

As more developments take shape, JB Nagar is steadily becoming a cornerstone of luxury living in Andheri East. With its evolving infrastructure, prime location, and high-end offerings, it’s no surprise that this micro market is now attracting the attention of affluent buyers looking for a comfortable yet connected lifestyle in one of Mumbai’s busiest areas. Supported by solid financial data and a growing demand for premium real estate, JB Nagar is well on its way to establishing itself as one of Mumbai’s most desirable luxury residential neighborhoods.

GoFloaters and MyBranch Release a Report on the Growth of Coworking Spaces and Commercial

India, 28 Feb 2025: Together, GoFloaters and MyBranch have published extensive research that details the remarkable expansion of coworking spaces and commercial real estate in Tamil Nadu. According to the research, the state contributes 8.8% of India’s GDP and has over 45,000 manufacturing facilities in industries including electronics, automotive, IT, and textiles. Tamil Nadu has been a popular destination for foreign investors and multinational corporations due to the state’s robust infrastructure, which includes Chennai’s sizable port and international airport.

The research also emphasizes how coworking spaces have grown rapidly throughout the region as a result of freelancers, startups, and established businesses seeking flexible office solutions. According to GoFloaters’ Co-Founder – Mr Shyam Sundar Nagarajan, “Customized workspace solutions are driving business expansion in Tamil Nadu, marking a vibrant change in conventional work patterns.” Prominent business districts such as Anna Salai, Mount Road, and Chennai’s Central Business District have become hubs for leading financial institutions and multinational enterprises. Since the IT sector occupies more than 60% of Chennai’s commercial real estate, the existence of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and IT parks, such as TIDEL Park and Ramanujan IT City, satisfies the demands of multinational IT corporations.

Mr SHYAM SUNDAR NAGARAJAN, CO-FOUNDER, GoFloaters

Chennai-Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor and Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor strategic plans have enhanced trade, industrialization, and urbanization by benefitting industries like IT, electronics, and the automobile sector. The startup ecosystem in the state has also gained momentum, having over 8,500 startups registered in 2024 and growing at the rate of 22% annually. Facilities like StartupTN and the support of more than 120 incubators have honed Tamil Nadu’s prominence as a startup ecosystem. Focused on strategic infrastructure development, technological advancement, and business-friendly policies, Tamil Nadu is on its way to formalizing its economy into a $1 trillion economy by the year 2030. The collaborative report from GoFloaters and MyBranch gives an in-depth run of the commercial real estate dynamics within the state, a growing coworking sector that presents great opportunities for both businesses and investors.

GoFloaters:

Founded in 2017, GoFloaters is a Chennai-based platform offering on-demand coworking spaces, meeting rooms, coworking/managed offices, and virtual offices across India. With a network spanning over 2,000 locations in 45 cities, we provide flexible, pay-per-use solutions tailored to startups and enterprises. Our services include hourly meeting room bookings, short-term offices, managed/coworking offices for SMEs, and virtual office addresses for company registration. Committed to fostering productivity and collaboration, GoFloaters enables businesses to operate seamlessly without long-term commitments.

MyBranch:

Established in 2016 by Mr. Narayan Bhargava, MyBranch is a leading provider of flexible office space solutions across India. With a presence in over 70 cities and 80+ locations, including all northeastern states, we offer managed and shared office spaces, virtual offices, and meeting rooms. Our mission is to empower businesses of all sizes to expand seamlessly by providing fully compliant, tech-enabled, and sustainable workspaces tailored to their unique needs. As a one-stop solution, we handle everything from location scouting to daily administration, ensuring operational efficiency and fostering community-driven growth.

PwC India’s Report on Retail Reinvention Paradigm

Mumbai, Thursday, 28 February, 2025 – PwC India has launched a report titled, “The Retail Reinvention Paradigm: How brands could up their game,” at the Retailers Association of India’s (RAI) Retail Leadership Summit in Mumbai today. According to the report, 60% of brick-and-mortar retailers surveyed believe that improved access to technology can empower them to enhance their competitiveness in this evolving market. The report emphasises the use of AI-driven analytics for personalised experiences, mobile apps for consumer engagement, and modern POS (Point of Sale) systems for efficiency.

The influence of e-commerce and quick commerce is increasingly reshaping Indian retail, with 34% of traditional retailers surveyed reporting negative impacts from online shopping. Traditional retailers are adapting to such a transformational market change by offering credit options, free home delivery and personalised services, while also looking at omnichannel strategies to stay competitive.

However, our research shows that consumers want the best of both worlds—seamless digital convenience and the in-store experience. While online shopping dominates in personal product categories like apparel and beauty (preferred by over 50% of consumers), in-store purchases remain strong for family-related products such as fresh produce and home furnishings (preferred by 36%), highlighting the need for tactile engagement.

In the light of these findings, the report introduces a comprehensive retail reinvention framework, guiding retailers to blend traditional and modern approaches. By embracing technology and focusing on experiential retail, retailers can create immersive consumer experiences that drive sustained growth. The framework emphasises the integration of AI-driven analytics and mobile applications to enhance customer interactions and provide valuable insights into consumer behaviour. Additionally, it encourages retailers to leverage geographic nuances and consumer utility profiles to tailor their strategies effectively. By aligning channel actions with consumer preferences, retailers can optimise resource allocation and remain relevant in a rapidly evolving market landscape. This strategic approach not only enhances competitiveness but also fosters long-term customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Ravi Kapoor, Partner and Leader – Retail and Consumer, PwC India, emphasised the importance of integrating innovation with localised strategies. “Indian retailers need to navigate the complexities of e-commerce—balancing online and offline channels, optimising supply chains, and enhancing customer experience. The future of retail belongs to those who seamlessly integrate innovation with localised strategies, leveraging data analytics and consumer insights to tailor offerings and drive sustainable growth in a competitive market.”

Raghav Narsalay, Partner and Leader – Research and Insights, PwC India, added, “Our research shows how dynamic the Indian retail landscape is and how the forces of technology combined with evolving consumer preferences across metros, Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 markets are driving retailers to innovate to maintain their competitive advantage. This requires a proactive approach towards embracing digital tools and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.”

Key insights from the report:

  1. Omnichannel retail success is greater than the sum of its parts: Retailers are increasingly recognising the power of blending online and offline experiences, with 60% perceiving technology as a tool that can provide a key competitive edge. Despite this, 53% of retail stores are yet to adopt tech solutions. Nearly 45% consumers prefer a combination of both online and offline channels for shopping.
  2. Quick Commerce is more common in metros and Tier 1 cities than in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities: Quick commerce is reshaping retail dynamics in metros and Tier 1 cities, with 42% of metro and Tier 1 consumers prioritising rapid delivery for urgent needs. Over 65% of consumers in these areas rely on quick commerce for essentials like packaged foods. This trend has reduced foot traffic to physical stores by 28%, highlighting the shift towards convenience and immediacy.
  3. Offline retailers strategise to thrive in digital retail landscape: Traditional retailers face challenges from the digital shift, with 34% reporting negative impacts from online shopping. To stay competitive, 64% are self-funding marketing efforts, emphasising the need for a strategic roadmap. Fairer logistics policies are perceived as crucial for equitable operations, ensuring retailers can navigate the evolving digital landscape effectively.
  4. Offline retailers and consumers are reinventing themselves in different ways in the omnichannel evolution journey: In response to the evolving retail environment, 21% of retailers are exploring the concept of dark stores to streamline operations and cut costs, while 10% are already operating them. Consumers are increasingly prioritising flexible return policies (40%), efficient after-sales service (39%), and better payment options (39%). This is particularly important in Tier 2 and 3 cities, where 41% and 39% of consumers, respectively, emphasise the importance of robust after-sales support.

Gender Diversity Transformation at Swaraj Tractors: Udaiti Foundation Report

Mohali, 28 February 2025: The Udaiti Foundation has released a study showcasing the remarkable strides made by Mahindra’s Swaraj Division and Swaraj Engines Limited (Swaraj) in fostering gender diversity on shop floors.

The study highlights the efforts of Swaraj in increasing women representation – growing from just 1.5% in 2013 to over 10% in 2024, thereby setting a benchmark for India’s tractor manufacturing sector.  Women employees have lower absenteeism and higher retention rates, contributing to enhanced productivity and operational efficiency, hence making a strong case for their inclusion in the manufacturing sector.

Despite challenges such as limited enrolment in technical trades, cultural resistance, and safety concerns, Swaraj has implemented targeted initiatives to overcome these barriers.

One notable achievement is the integration of women into their foundry facilities, a traditionally male-dominated area requiring physical endurance and technical precision.

Key reasons for this transformation

  • Workplace redesigns have played a pivotal role in making manufacturing roles more inclusive. Ergonomic adjustments, including robotics, raised platforms, and gravity mechanisms, have minimized physical strain while improving efficiency.
  • Collaborations with 15 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 5 polytechnics, and Advanced Technical Institutes have helped create a robust talent pipeline.
  • Tailored training programs such as dexterity modules and on-the-job training have equipped women with the skills needed to excel.
  • Safety measures such as GPS-enabled transport, buddy systems, and women security guards ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Swaraj has also actively engaged with communities by conducting parental counseling and organizing shop floor visits, addressing cultural concerns, and encouraging women to explore careers in manufacturing. Pooja Goyal, Founding CEO of The Udaiti Foundation, commended the efforts, saying, “Swaraj’s journey underscores the transformative impact of investing in skills, infrastructure, and community engagement. It offers a replicable model for the manufacturing sector to drive women’s economic empowerment and significantly contribute to India’s growth story.”

Despite these successes, challenges persist. Women remain under-represented in technical education, with only 400 out of 17,000 students in Punjab’s ITIs enrolled in trades like diesel mechanics and machinists. Furthermore, the reliance on contractual roles limits long-term career growth for women in the sector. Addressing these gaps will require sustained efforts and systemic changes.

Swaraj’s achievements demonstrate that prioritizing gender diversity strengthens workforce resilience and drives operational excellence. This progress serves as an inspiration for companies across industries to create equitable workplaces and unlock the potential of women in India’s economic landscape.

Housing Sales in 2025: Pune Surpasses Major Cities, Says CREDAI & CRE Matrix

Pune, 24th February 2025 – CREDAI Pune Metro and CRE Matrix have released their much-anticipated Pune Housing Report – February 2025, highlighting Pune’s continued dominance in India’s real estate market. According to the report, Pune has once again emerged as the top city for real estate sales across India in CY2024, maintaining its leading position for the fourth consecutive year since 2021.

The Pune Housing Report – February 2025 was officially unveiled at the Ramkumar Rathi Hall, CREDAI Pune Metro office in Camp by President Ranjit Naiknavare, CRE Matrix CEO Abhishek Gupta, Public Relations Convenor Kapil Gandhi, Management Committee Members Abhishek Bhatewara and Punit Oswal, Data Analyst Rahul Ajmera, and Hiren Parmar. The event was attended by over 100 representatives from the real estate industry.

Key Highlights from the Report:

  1. India’s Real Estate Leader: Pune led the nation with nearly 90,000 housing units sold in CY2024, generating a total sales value of ₹65,000 crores. This marks a significant increase from ₹30,000 crores in 2019, reflecting a remarkable growth of over 116%.
  2. In Pune, real estate has emerged as the most preferred investment avenue, with 51% of individuals choosing property over other asset classes such as equities, gold, or fixed deposits.
  3. Affordability Drives Growth: Pune remains India’s most affordable metro city, attracting industries and migrants alike. With an average home price of ₹73 lakh, Pune remains the most affordable compared to metro cities like Bengaluru (₹1.35 crore) and Hyderabad (₹1.75 crore). Despite not being a capital city or having direct port connectivity, Pune continues to lead in housing sales thus bolstering its appeal as a residential hub. In Pune, homeownership is a common aspiration, with many residents able to purchase their own homes. In contrast, in other metro cities like Mumbai, high property prices often compel people to rent rather than buy.
  4. Rapid Market Growth: Over the past five years, Pune’s residential market has recorded an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 22% in the total value of unit sales.
  5. Shifting Buyer Preferences: Homes priced below ₹70 lakhs contributed 60% of sales in CY2024—down from 85% in 2020—indicating a shift toward larger and more premium properties.
  6. Surging Luxury Demand: Sales of units priced above ₹1 crore have surged by 5X (5 times) in the last five years, reflecting growing demand for luxury and premium housing.
  7. Affordable Housing: Affordable homes priced below ₹45 lakhs now, contributes 30% of total sales, down from 55% in 2020, signalling a reduced supply in this segment.
  8. Geographic Sales Concentration: Over 75% of housing sales were concentrated in three key regions—Pune North West (around Hinjawadi – Mahalunge), Pune North East (around Kharadi – Wagholi), and Pune North (Pimpri Chinchwad).
  9. Significant Regional Growth: Pune South West (Kothrud-Bavdhan region) witnessed a remarkable 55% increase in the average value of units sold between CY2020 and CY2024.
  10. Value Appreciation: The average value of a home in Pune has risen by 44% over the last five years, fueled by increasing flat sizes and higher input costs.

Mr. Rahul Ajmera delivered a presentation on ‘Real Estate Trends & Analysis,’ while a Senior Inspector provided valuable insights on cybersecurity. During his address, Mr. Ajmera highlighted that new project launches and housing supply in Pune have declined by nearly 25%, primarily due to delays in approvals, challenges in land acquisition, and regulatory constraints. This reduction has not only limited options for homebuyers but has also heightened competition among channel partners.”

Mr. Ranjit Naiknavare, President of CREDAI Pune Metro, stated, “Over the past five years, we have witnessed an impressive 56% surge in sales volumes, solidifying Pune District as the most preferred and highest-selling real estate market in IndiaAdditionally, the total sales value has doubled during this period, significantly boosting government revenues. The average home value now stands at ₹73 lakhs. Most notably, we have  seen a phenomenal 5 times(5X)  growth in homes priced above ₹1 crore, signaling Pune’s evolution into a more affluent city with growing demand for premium apartments. “

Mr. Abhishek Kiran Gupta, CEO of CRE Matrix, stated, “I am thrilled to unveil yet another groundbreaking research report by CRE Matrix in collaboration with CREDAI Pune. It is encouraging to see that units priced between ₹1 crore and ₹2 crore have experienced the highest growth in value, clearly indicating that Pune homebuyers are not only purchasing more homes but also opting for larger, more spacious properties.

The Pune Housing Report presents accurate and reliable information, as all data and statistics are sourced directly from authoritative government bodies, including the Registration and Stamps Department and the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA). “

NIIT Launches 4th Edition of the ‘EdTech Growth Summit’

New Delhi, 28 February 2025: NIIT Ltd., a leading skills & talent development corporation, proudly announces the 4th edition of the ‘EdTech Growth Summit’, which will be held virtually on March 4, 2025. This year’s summit focuses on leveraging AI for sustainable growth, offering EdTech founders’ valuable insights from top investors and industry leaders.

This edition of the summit promises an engaging lineup of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, designed to foster networking and knowledge-sharing among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. With AI playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of education, the summit will spotlight innovative strategies and solutions to accelerate growth and impact in the EdTech space.

This year’s summit gets a major boost with Google Cloud coming on board as a Technology Partner, alongside the Microsoft Founders’ Hub. This partnership opens exciting opportunities for startups to scale through advanced cloud-based solutions, providing access to cutting-edge AI tools, expert mentorship, and potential funding avenues to drive innovation and long-term growth.

Rajendra S Pawar, Chairman & Co-founder, NIIT Group, said, “The 4th edition of EdTech Growth Summit is centered on harnessing AI to drive sustainable growth in the EdTech sector. By bringing together industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs, the summit aims to inspire innovation and empower emerging founders with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate and excel in this dynamic landscape.”

The virtual summit will once again present high-impact sessions led by prominent EdTech founders and industry leaders, including Rajan Anandan, MD – PeakXV Partners, Ex-MD – Sequoia Capital, Ex-MD – Google across India & South East Asia; Mayank Kumar, Co-Founder – upGrad & Co-Founder – BorderPlus; Chaitanya Kalipatnapu, Co-Founder, Emeritus; alongside the Founders of NIIT and the Vice Chancellor & President of NIIT University, among others.

Select start-ups will also participate in the Founders’ Growthcamp 2025 in the month of April at NIIT University (NU) campus in Neemrana.

Previous editions of the Growthcamp saw participating founders of EdTech startups who received a total of INR 7.8 Crore worth of benefits from Microsoft Founders Hub, NIIT EdTech Growth program’s Technology Partner.

Beyond Key CEO Piyush Goel Named 2025 Chicago Titan 100 for Leadership

New Delhi, 27th February 2025– Beyond Key, a leading global technology solutions provider, proudly announces the recognition of its Founder and CEO, Mr. Piyush Goel, as a distinguished honoree of the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 by Titan CEO. This prestigious accolade honored the top 100 CEOs and C-level executives in Chicago, representing companies that collectively generate over $70 billion in revenue and employ more than 439,000 individuals across diverse industries.

The Titan 100 program, an internationally recognized initiative, celebrates CEOs and visionary executives who exemplify innovation, leadership, and industry impact. The program, led by Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO, acknowledges executives who are driving meaningful change and setting new standards for success. This year’s honorees were celebrated at an exclusive awards ceremony recently at the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, where they joined an elite network of transformative leaders.

Piyush Goel, recognized as the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 for the second time in a row, recognizes his exceptional leadership and his instrumental role in Beyond Key’s global growth and innovation in AI, data analytics, and custom software development. Under his stewardship, Beyond Key has consistently been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology solutions, fostering a culture of inclusivity, continuous learning, and forward-thinking innovation.

Reflecting on this achievement, Mr. Piyush Goel, CEO and Founder of Beyond Key, stated: “Being recognized as a Titan 100 honoree is a tremendous honour and a testament to the relentless dedication of the entire Beyond Key team. Our focus has always been on delivering transformative solutions that empower businesses, and this milestone reaffirms our commitment to driving meaningful impact in the technology sector.”

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

As a 2025 Chicago Titan 100 honoree, Piyush Goel remains dedicated to Beyond Key’s mission of fostering innovation, driving growth, and delivering impactful technology solutions. His continued leadership ensures Beyond Key remains at the forefront of industry advancements, making a lasting difference in the digital landscape.

KLADIO Promises to Transform India’s Education Landscape with Ambitious Initiatives and Visionar

New Delhi, February 27, 2025: With a firm commitment to fostering experiential learning and bridging the industry-academia gap, KLADIO today marked its foray into India’s education landscape.

The official launch took place in the national capital amid the presence of esteemed dignitaries including prominent educators, lawmakers, and influencers, all of whom converged to support KLADIO’s vision for India’s education sector.

”Backed by a highly proficient and experienced leadership team, KLADIO aims to redefine the learning experience of students, empowering them to become global citizens and industry leaders. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative pedagogy, we will strive to nurture a dynamic educational environment that facilitates critical thinking, hands-on exposure, and collaboration,” said Mr. Tannay Jit Singh, Founder of KLADIO and an accomplished Third Generation Edupreneur.

KLADIO’s mission focuses on promoting experiential learning and practical training. It provides global learning opportunities in India that are comparable to the best programs in Dubai, London, Brazil, France, and the USA.

Featuring an inspiring keynote speech and an insightful panel discussion, KLADIO’s launch served as a strategic platform for diverse stakeholders to delve into the future of education in India. Additionally, a fireside chat by Mr. Harneet Singh, Founder, and Chief AI Officer of Rabbitt AI, underlined the potential of integrating disruptive technologies to enhance learning outcomes.

”The launch of KLADIO marks the dawn of a new age in education. With a firm determination to make learning engaging, accessible, and industry-relevant, we aspire to unlock the true potential of India’s students and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat,” said Mr. Harneet Singh.

A key highlight of the event was a book launch that showcased the evolution of educational literature. Furthermore, a prestigious award ceremony celebrated excellence in the field, honoring outstanding educators and experts.

KLADIO has raised the bar in the education space with its distinctive ”Family Business Management” program that instills essential skills and knowledge required to successfully manage and enhance family-owned businesses by tapping into new opportunities.

A taste of Spring – Vasant Ritu Khasa at Royal Vega, ITC Royal Bengal

Vasant Ritu Khasa

Indulge in the Vasant Ritu Khasa this season at Royal Vega, ITC Royal Bengal. The Vasant Ritu Khasa celebrates spring produce from across the country, showcasing seasonal vegetarian flavors.

Royal Vega, nestled within the iconic ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata, is the first restaurant in the state to be awarded the Sattvik Certification by the Sattvik Council of India. The restaurant continues to abide by principles of purity and sustainability in its offerings. The Sattvik Verification Label certifies that Royal Vega’s vegetarian cuisine is crafted with 100% vegetarian ingredients and has been prepared by the highest food safety regulations, allowing guests to indulge in a healthy and delicious full-course vegetarian meal without concern.

Drawing inspiration from the royal kitchens of India, Royal Vega offers a thoughtfully curated menu rooted in the principles of Ayurveda—the ancient science of life and holistic well-being. The restaurant’s offerings are aligned with Ayurvedic philosophy and a holistic approach to health, focusing on fresh and seasonal produce that promotes balance and harmony with nature. As a key influence on Indian culinary traditions, the Ayurvedic approach guides the restaurant’s menu, which is tailored to nourish the body by nature’s rhythms. This philosophy is reflected in the seasonal offerings at Royal Vega, where the menu is carefully designed to complement the six seasons (Ritu) of the Indian calendar, each lasting two months.

Vasant Ritu Khasa offers an array of mindfully selected vegetarian dishes that highlight the flavors of the season, including Mewa Paneer (stuffed rolled paneer and premium dry fruits slow-cooked in a gravy of poppy seeds, cashew nuts, and khoya), Kadali Badam Kofta (green bananas and almond marbles simmered in onion and curd gravy, finished with Timur), Shatawari Maarmik (crisp green asparagus tips seasoned with nuts and raisins), and Shahi Phal Sandesh (layered Sandesh), to name a few.

RTX’s Pratt & Whitney GTF Advantage™ Engine Achieves U.S. FAA Certification

RTX’s

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. (February 27, 2025) – Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, announced that the GTF Advantage engine has achieved the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification for the Airbus A320neo family. The Advantage is the latest engine from the GTF family to be certified.

“GTF engines already offer the lowest fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for single-aisle aircraft,” said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. “The GTF Advantage engine extends that lead and enhances aircraft capability, providing more thrust and even more value to operators of A320neo family aircraft, especially on longer-range aircraft like the A321XLR, all with a more durable configuration. With this certification and engine deliveries on track for later this year, it’s fitting we mark these milestones in 2025, as Pratt & Whitney celebrates a century of powering the future.”

The GTF Advantage will deliver 4-8% more takeoff thrust, enabling higher payload and longer range, unlocking new destinations for airlines. It offers better fuel efficiency with lower carbon emissions. Pratt & Whitney is working to ensure that the GTF Advantage will be compatible with future specifications for 100% sustainable aviation fuel. Fully intermixable and interchangeable with today’s GTF engine model, GTF Advantage will become the production standard.

The GTF Advantage includes fully redesigned life-limited parts and technology enhancements throughout the gas path. It is fundamentally more durable, with increased airflow in the core to lower operating temperatures and a state-of-the-art hot section to increase time on wing. In the high-pressure turbine (HPT), the enhancements include an advanced airfoil design with improved coatings. The HPT and combustor also feature optimized cooling hole size, shape, and location, with improved hole drilling techniques to reduce oxidation.

“India was an early adopter of the GTF engine and operators have benefited from its best-in-class fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. With technological enhancements that deliver increased thrust, fuel efficiency and durability in severe operating environments, we expect the GTF Advantage to be attractive to Indian operators,” said Ashmita Sethi, president & country head, Pratt & Whitney, India.

The GTF Advantage test program incorporated extensive endurance testing to advance product maturity at entry into service. The GTF Advantage accomplished more than twice the amount of testing compared to the current GTF engine. It also benefits from over 100,000 hours of engine and rig testing across all GTF programs, along with 38 million flight hours of in-service operation. Certain elements of the GTF Advantage configuration can be incorporated into today’s GTF engine to support increased time on wing.

To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. GTF engines enable up to 20% better fuel efficiency and since entering service, have helped airlines save more than 2 billion gallons of fuel, equivalent to avoiding 20 million metric tons of CO2 emissions, compared to those aircraft having been powered by prior generation engines. Demand for the GTF engine remains strong, with 11,000 engine orders and commitments in total across all platforms.