Indian Education Sector Sees Surge in Cyberattacks: 8,000 Weekly, Double the Global Average – Check Point Threat Intelligence Report

New Delhi, 30th September 2024 — Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider, has unveiled finding of its latest Threat Intelligence Report for the last 6 months. The report revealed a startling increase in cyberattacks on the Indian education sector, with 8,195 attacks per week, more than double the global average of 3,355. After the education sector, the other most attacked industries were healthcare with 7,982 weekly attacks per organization, followed by Government/Military sector experiencing 4,590 attacks and the Consulting sector facing 4177 weekly attacks per organization.

The surge in attacks is largely attributed to the rapid shift to remote learning during COVID-19 and the continued digitization of education. Educational institutions in India are collecting and storing vast amounts of sensitive student data, including personal, academic, and financial information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, coupled with the widespread adoption of online learning platforms, have expanded the digital footprint of these institutions, making them more vulnerable to data breaches. Cybercriminals are exploiting weak cybersecurity defenses in schools and universities to steal personally identifiable information (PII), often sold on the Dark Web.

Over the past six months, organizations in India have experienced an average of 3,244 cyberattacks per week, which is nearly double the global average of 1,657 attacks per organization. This stark contrast underscores the heightened vulnerability of Indian organizations in the face of escalating cyber threats.

The report highlights Fake Updates, Qbot, and Formbook as the most prevalent malware in India, with 54% of attacks delivered via email and 58% of email-borne attacks using .exe files. Information disclosure vulnerabilities have also affected 70% of Indian organizations, exposing critical data to threats.

The most common malware in India includes four botnets, one infostealer (Formbook), and one downloader (Fake Updates).

Sundar Balasubramanian, Managing Director for India and SAARC at Check Point Software Technologies, commented, “Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting critical sectors in India, particularly those handling vast amounts of personally identifiable information (PII), such as education, which often has wide attack surface. With the rise of Gen AI, these threats are poised to become even more severe especially as social engineering and phishing attacks escalate. The surge in attacks underscores the urgent need for organizations to strengthen their cyber security frameworks. Proactive measures, including robust defenses and continuous monitoring, are essential to safeguard sensitive data and maintain operational integrity.”

Zomato to support the training of 10,000 women for roles in logistics

New Delhi, 30th September 2024: Zomato today announced a target to support training of 10,000 women to empower them to participate in logistics in collaboration with non-profit and skilling sectors. The target was shared at a closed door roundtable conference event today titled, “Women in Logistics” at Le Meridien, New Delhi. The event brought together key industry stakeholders, including representatives from NGOs including Pratham, Azad Foundation, impact consulting firms such as FSG, Give Grants, and logistics companies such as Porter and Mahindra Logistics, to discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in India’s growing hyper local and quick commerce economy.

The target announced today is a part of Zomato’s broader commitment to gender inclusion reflected in its flagship initiative, Project Arya. Started in 2021, the project aims to break gender barriers and provide women with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in logistics. As part of this initiative, Zomato has already successfully onboarded more than 2500 women in the delivery fleet. In addition to onboarding women in last-mile delivery, Zomato has also begun onboarding women in Hyperpure and Blinkit warehouses and dark stores with a target of 20% representation of women across the day-time shift in warehouses by the end of 2024.

The discussions at the event focused on the hurdles women face in gig work, such as safety concerns, access to infrastructure and training. Stakeholders shared their insights and innovative solutions to enhance women’s participation in the last-mile logistics.

Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Zomato, said, Women today account for less than 10% of the overall delivery workforce despite the fact that ordering and delivery platforms offer a better balance of flexibility and earning potential than many other opportunities available to them. Zomato is eager to lead the change in this sector in collaboration with both government and non-governmental organizations that are working with women seeking to become self-reliant. Together, we believe we can create the right conditions for women to participate and benefit from the huge growth in the food ordering and delivery space and quick commerce.”

“We are excited to collaborate with Zomato towards the vision of making logistics more inclusive. Zomato’s Project Arya, which is designed to develop the ecosystem to support onboarding of more women as delivery partners, aligns with Give Grants’ mission of advising on social and environmental issues while creating shared value for both the business and society”, Sumit Tayal, CEO Give Grants

Vikram Jain, Managing Director at FSG said, “FSG’s GLOW (‘Growing Livelihood Opportunities for Women’) program has collaborated with Zomato to improve gender diversity in logistics roles, with a special focus on warehousing. At this roundtable conference, it’s been heartening to see the progress in terms of the increase in the number of women employed in warehouses. We’re convinced that, with supportive policies and corporate practices to make warehouses women-friendly, the sector can be a major driver in improving women’s labour workforce participation in India.”

In the last few years, Zomato has taken multiple steps to combat entry barriers for women in logistics. The company provides benefits like shorter distance deliveries, period rest leaves and maternity benefits to its female delivery partners. Zomato continues to launch initiatives with an objective of enabling greater participation of women in logistics.

Manipal Hospitals launches visionary campaign on World Heart Day

New Delhi, 30 thSeptember 2024: In a major step towards building a heart-healthy city, Manipal Hospitals, among the top healthcare service providers of India, introduced its Hridoye Jurey Kolkata initiative today. The event was organized as a prelude to the World Heart Day, observed globally every year on September 29th. The engaging sessions included leading cardiac specialists from all units of Manipal Hospitals in Kolkata, who shared their varied experiences in cardiovascular health and innovative surgeries that are transforming medical discourse around patient outcomes.

The event was attended by Chief Guest, Mr. Barun Chanda, prominent actor and author. It also witnessed experts in cardiology, including Dr Prakash Kumar Hazra, Director & HoD, Cardiology, Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, Dr Rabin Chakraborty, Senior Vice Chairman & Head of Cardiology, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a part of Manipal Hospitals), and Dr Kunal Sarkar, Senior Vice Chairman & Head of Cardiac Surgery, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a part of Manipal Hospitals), along with Mr Ayanabh DebGupta, Regional COO, Manipal Hospitals (East), addressed the noble healthcare initiative.

The event also saw the launch of two groundbreaking awareness initiatives. ‘One Scan Can Save a Life’, in which boards with a QR code will be fixed at traffic signals. By scanning the code, citizens can get instant access to MARS (Manipal Ambulance Response Service), promoting both 24×7 Emergency Service, along with informative video tutorials on learning how to administer CPR (cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Procedure). As part of the initiative, traffic lights across the jurisdiction of Bidhan Nagar Police Commissionerate will be displaying heart-shapes, instead of the usual round shape, from 25th September night till 30th September, at important crossroads. The unique traffic signals are expected to constantly instill awareness of heart health amongst the people of Kolkata.

The ‘Hridoye Jurey Kolkata’ campaign aims to ensure at least 3 percent of Indians know how to administer CPR. Manipal Hospitals conducted an extensive CPR training program for community members, including Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), school students, staff and principals, security guards, police personnel, HR heads, and corporate employees. The initiative, called ‘Heart Smart Kolkata’ aims to develop a database of people trained in CPR all over the city.

This was followed by two panel discussions — Heart Problems in Women, and Cardiac Surgery: Myths Vs Facts — where top cardiologists and cardiac surgeons from Manipal Hospitals provided valuable insights.

Mr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals East, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Hridoye Jurey Kolkata aims to build communities of heroes and survivors by improving action and response to cardiac arrest through training, preparation and response protocols. We intend to create a heart safe community through training citizens in CPR and we are actively taking this initiative across all Manipal group hospitals in the East. We want the message to be spread across schools, colleges, corporates, clubs and all other associations so that those who are trained in CPR can train their near and dear ones. This way we can create a huge pool of CPR trained resources around us, which will help us to save many a lives.”

Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Senior Vice Chairman & Head of Cardiac Surgery, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a part of Manipal Hospitals), further highlighted Manipal Hospitals’ commitment to the initiative, stating, “At Manipal Hospitals, our vision is to revolutionize the cardiac care system of Kolkata while offering the best and latest treatments.”

“Cardiovascular diseases are ranked as the leading causes of death, affecting one-third of all global deaths; it therefore becomes crucial to address prevention, early intervention, and effective management of these conditions. ‘Hridoye Jurey Kolkata’ is a proof of our commitment to make the city a heart smart one. Another significant achievement of our work includes the swift solution to the method of using a Quick Response Code (QR) to access emergency assistance or a CPR demonstration and the reminder through the heart-shaped traffic signs that make the community aware of cardiovascular diseases. We seek to make a lasting change and create a force of people capable of making life-saving CPR actions that can cover minimum 3% population of India. As a team, we are hopeful to action against premature mortality and provide efficient care for heart health risks for the populace of Kolkata,” Dr Sarkar added.

Dr. Rabin Chakraborty, Senior Vice Chairman & Head of Cardiology, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (a part of Manipal Hospitals), commented, “The rising incidences of cardiovascular diseases especially among patients between 25-40 years is a matter of grave concern. The percentage of heart attacks before the age of 50 has gone up to 50% over last decade. More than 25% suffer heart attacks before their 40th birthday. Even women are succumbing to heart failures at a much younger age. As per research by the American Heart Association, in the last decade, there has been a 20% increase in heart attacks in women under 55. Keeping these critical factors in mind, as doctors, we feel there is a need to focus on preventive measures, early diagnosis, and timely treatment. The ‘Hridoye Jurey Kolkata’ initiative by Manipal Hospitals is a timely initiative in making Kolkata a heart-healthy city. We need to educate the community, society at large and change specific behaviors for prevention of heart diseases, improving the health of individuals.”

Dr. Prakash Kumar Hazra, Director & HoD, Cardiology, Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, said, “This initiative that we have taken up this World Heart Day, will make people of Kolkata more aware about their heart health. Moreover, training common people in CPR techniques is not only unique, it is also crucial. Knowing CPR can help save thousands of lives because even the basic effort to resuscitate the heart till a heart attack patient is brought to a hospital can help. This World Heart Day we have also taken the pledge of ‘Mission 2 to 3’ meaning that while two percent Indians already know CPR, we want to train the general public and take up the percentage to three, so that more and more people are encouraged to learn this technique.”

During the panel discussions important facets were highlighted by the doctors (refer to annexure below) and the specialists exchanged views and presented various aspects regarding cardiac health, liberal medical preventative measures, and contemporary trends in cardiac treatment.

According to World Heart Federation, 1 in 3 deaths across the globe are caused by cardiovascular diseases, and majority of premature heart disease and stroke are preventable and treatable, if the patient is brought to a hospital within the golden hour. With this heart smart program being run in Kolkata, Manipal Hospitals is confident that there will be an improvement in the heart health status of every Kolkatan.

Indian Workers Report Highest Satisfaction with Hybrid Working, Outpacing Global Average, says Unispace Study

Bengaluru, 30 September, 2024 – Indian employees and employers state the highest satisfaction with their current hybrid work environment, even as Indian employees are least likely to spend time at their desks in office, reveals the latest Global Workspace Insights report from one of the world’s leading workplace creation companies.

97% of employees and 98% employers in India surveyed by Unispace for the report expressed their satisfaction with the hybrid working arrangement, as compared to a global average of 87% employees and 95% employers. This marks a significant shift from last year’s statistics that showed that employees in India are far more likely than any other country globally to be willing to take a pay reduction in order to work from home, with almost a third (31%) indicating that they have already done so, which is almost double the global average of 16%.

The report titled ‘From Restrictions to Resilience’, part of Unispace’s Global Workplace Insights 2024-25, reveals trends and insights, based on surveys of 10,700 employees and employers across 13 countries globally, to guide organizations in creating resilient workplaces. 500 employees and 250 employers from India were surveyed for the report.

The third edition of the annual Unispace report found that employees worldwide are spending nearly half a day more per week in 2024 on average (3.7 days vs 3.4 days last year) in the office as compared to a year ago.

“Even as people are now spending nearly half a day more in the office compared to a year ago, our research shows that both employees and employers yearn for workspaces that inspire innovation and promote productivity. If they’re to endure long commutes and arrange childcare, the destination must be an environment where ideas soar,” says Swatasiddha Majumdar, Principal, Strategy at Unispace India. “There’s also been a noticeable change this year where employees are actively seeking workplaces that enable individual focus, rather than reserving concentration for work from home.”

Time spent in office

While face-to-face collaboration remains a top incentive for coming to the office, in reality, employees worldwide report spending 64% of their time in the office at their desks. Interestingly, Indian employees with 50% average reported time are least likely to spend time at their desks while working from the office.

The report further reveals that Indian employees’ inability to work productively at the office is hampered most by noise, or problems with temperature and air quality. Finding no time to exercise or staying active during the workday is an additional challenge that can cause physical and mental exhaustion.

To mitigate these challenges, the Unispace report recommends a combination of furniture and workplace configurations that cater to various tasks and working styles. “People now seek quiet areas for focused work and flexible spaces for various activities and collaboration. By addressing these needs, companies can better support their workforce, supporting both productivity and employee wellbeing,” Majumdar added.

The Unispace report also reveals that Indian employers’ confidence in their workplace’s capacity to foster innovation shows a downward trend. While 96% of employers in India believed that their workplace enables employees to be innovative in 2023, the number has dropped to 85% in 2024.

The report further reveals the biggest motivators for Indian employees to work from office, noting that paid-for or subsidized travel (parking or public transportation), access to more training or development programs, or free drinks, coffee and snacks are the top three reasons for them to feel happier to spend more time in office. Additionally, technology infrastructure, wellbeing areas for relaxation or stress relief, and hygiene facilities make up the top three essential reasons for Indian employees to work from the office.

Green Building Construction to gain major momentum in Bihar

Patna, 25 Sept 2024: CII Bihar and Indian Green Building Council Patna, organised the 3rd edition of ‘Bihar Green Conclave’ with theme Greening Residential, Office and Interior Spaces at Hotel Lemon Tree, Patna.

Speaking on the occasion, Nitin Nabin, Minister, Urban Development & Housing Department realised the need of green construction in the state and said, “the state government would encourage the green construction practices being a promoter of the concepts to encourage all the stakeholders from the building industry.” He stressed on two factors which would be instrumental in making government a promoter of green building practices – Scope in converting the existing government projects and mandating the new upcoming projects as green compliant and bringing suitable policies to encourage green construction in the state. He further mentioned on exploring various policies on incentivising green buildings by other states in the country and adopting best suitable policy for Bihar. The minister invited all the relevant parties such as CII-IGBC, CREDAI, IIA to join hands with Urban Development & Housing Department and help in finalising the most suitable policy for the state. He also mentioned few of the existing practices at city and municipal level towards making Bihar a sustainable built state such as segregation of waste, water conservation etc.

Dr. Satyajit Kumar Singh, Chairman, CII Bihar State Council, Director, Ruban Memorial Hospital spoke about sustainability in healthcare facilities. He said, “Introducing green concepts in the healthcare facilities can help address National issues like infection, epidemics, handling of bio-medical waste, water efficiency, energy efficiency, reduction in fossil fuel use for commuting, consumer waste and in general conservation of natural resources. Most importantly, these concepts can enhance patients’ health, recovery and well-being”.

Spearheading the green building movement in India from over two decades, CII-IGBC with the support of all the stakeholders has facilitated India to become one of the top three countries in the world in terms of largest registered green building footprint. As on date, over 14,400 green building projects, amounting to over 12 billion sq. ft. are adopting IGBC green building rating systems.

Sudip Kumar, Chairman, IGBC Patna Chapter and Chairman, LaaCasa Developers said, The need of certifying the project ultimately becomes the end result of the overall efforts put in by many stakeholders in a project, starting with the vision of the developer/project owner, design team, MEP team, HVAC team, the other consultants involved in the projects to the end users which feel satisfying in investing in those projects. Hence the achievement of a green certification for a project becomes an aspiring and encouraging factors for all of them to do better and keep improving the building performance on energy, water, environmental parameters.

Sachin Chandra, Chairman, CREDAI Bihar and MD, Swadha Developers urged the minister to consider and support in bringing a robust policy which could drive the adoption of green building concepts more practically. He further highlighted on various policies by the other state governments in the country.

Gaurav Sah, Vice Chairman, CII Bihar and Director, L V Best Pvt Ltd while speaking on sustainable industrial practices urged to the CII members and other industrial facility owners to envision their green mission and make their factories, manufacturing units, supply chain, warehouses etc as green complaint and contribute to the sustainable development of the state and the country.

Abhishek Sharma, Co Chairman, IGBC Patna Chapter and Principal Architect, PRAYOG concluded the inaugural by highlighting all the deliberations and assured the minister that a team comprised of CII, IGBC, CREDAI, IIA would meet him and his department to brainstorm on the best possible policy framework for the state to consider and further implement.

The conclave was attended by over 90 key stakeholders from the building industry such as developers, architects, engineers, government officials, academicians and other industrial and corporate leaders.

2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL – Day 1

Hyundai Card hosts the first day of the ‘2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL’ event at its branded spaces in Seoul’s Itaewon district on September 27. This 3-day event brings unique K-culture experiences to local and international visitors. The event features cultural icons from the arts, academia, business, and technology sectors who will present various programs, including talk shows, live performances, exhibitions, and busking.

[Photo 4] ‘2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL’_Day 1

This year, from September 27 through 29, the event will feature 39 curated sessions covering a range of topics, including history, science, law, and K-culture.

 ‘2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL’_Day 1

Popular Korean hip-hop artist, GIRIBOY, performs at Understage, one of Hyundai Card’s branded venues in Itaewon, on the first day of the 2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL festival. A fully captivated audience enjoyed GIRIBOY’s passionate and energetic hip-hop performance. ‘2024 Hyundai Card DaVinci MOTEL,’ the only threeday cultural and intellectual festival in Korea, will be held until September 29 in Seoul’s Itaewon district.

Neo Developers received the OC for one of their projects

NEO DEVELOPERS, one of the leading builders in Delhi NCR has formally secured the Occupation Certificate (OC) for NEO Square Project located on Dwarka Expressway Sector – 109.

Neo Square is an exceptional commercial hub, featuring a variety of beautifully designed spaces that exemplify world-class standards. This Grade-A development offers seamless connectivity to UER I & II, SPR, and NH-8, making it ideal for high-end market segments. The expansive project includes diverse commercial offerings such as retail shops, a food court, restaurants, supermarket, cinema, and office spaces.

This project is developed in 3.07 Acres of land with 12 lakh Sq. Ft. total built-up area.

  • There are numerous features in the project:
  • ~6 lakh sq ft of development in Phase – I
  • ~1.6 lakh sq ft dedicated to retail from GF to 3F
  • ~3 lakh sq ft of office development 5F to 17F
  • High speed elevators to ensure ease of movement
  • Adequate provision for over 1600 car parks
  • Separate drop off points for office and retail
  • Vastu compliant ‘East’ facing building
  • Energy efficient building
  • 24X7 CCTV surveillance
  • Fully Air Conditioned with 100% Power Back
  • Zero waste generation

In close proximity to major residential developments with over 50,000 dwelling units: Sobha International city, Raheja Atharva, Vedaanta, The Vedas & Shilas, IndiaBulls Enigma, Chintels Serenity, Acropolis & Paradiso, CHD sector 109.

India Emerging as a Global Manufacturing Hotspot

Sept 27th, 2024 – CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd, India’s leading real estate consulting firm, today released its report titled, Fortifying India’s I&L landscape with a new manufacturing growth formula’. The report reveals that the manufacturing sector’s growth has significantly contributed to warehousing demand.  The share of sectors catering to the manufacturing space, including engineering & manufacturing, electronics & electricals and auto & ancillary sectors, within the total warehousing demand across major cities, has increased substantially, growing from 15% in 2019 to 24% in 2023 and 25% in H1 2024. The total leasing for warehousing from these manufacturing-related sectors stood at 4.1 mn. sq. ft. in H1 2024.

As per the report, Pune has shown the highest increase in warehousing and industrial space take-up by manufacturing players, growing from 6% in 2019 to 13% in H1 2024. Delhi-NCR and Kolkata have also seen notable increases, reaching 18% and 12%, respectively, in H1 2024*. This surge is attributed to factors like adoption of the China + 1 strategy by global manufacturers and supportive policies such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, now covering 14 sectors.

 Sectoral distribution of warehouse leasing in manufacturing sector

India’s engineering and manufacturing sector has seen a significant surge in warehouse leasing. The report shows that the sector’s share of total warehouse leasing grew from 8% in 2023 to 11% in H1 2024. The top sub-sectors driving warehouse leasing from 2019 to H1 2024 include domestic appliances, auto components, and the automobile industry, reflecting robust demand across these key segments.

India’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience, exhibiting sustained growth underpinned by several positive indicators. With a surging GDP in 2023 and a projected growth rate of 6.5-7% over 2024-2026, India emerges as one of the frontrunners in the global economic race. This ambitious goal appears increasingly attainable due to a decade of successful policy reforms that have propelled economic growth. The manufacturing sector plays a key role, contributing 14% of GDP and employing over 27.3 million people. In June 2024, the Services PMI hit a 14-year high of 60.5, while manufacturing PMI stood at 58.3, reflecting expansion and the strongest growth in three-and-a-half years. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew by 4.2% in June, pushing overall industrial growth to 5.8% in FY 2023-24.

India’s favorable business environment, boosted by streamlined regulations and a jump in global rankings, has attracted strong foreign direct investment (FDI). Private consumption also continues to drive growth, with its share of GDP rising from 56.5% in FY2012 to 60.3% in FY24.

Favorable Government policies enabling manufacturing growth

To reduce high logistics costs, the government is optimizing freight movement by shifting to more cost-effective and sustainable transport modes through initiatives:

  • GatiShakti National Master Plan and logistics-specific reforms
  • These efforts aim to improve supply chain efficiency, promote green practices, and enhance India’s manufacturing competitiveness globally

In addition, the Indian government is working to reduce production costs through a series of tax reforms, incentives, and infrastructure improvements. Corporate tax cuts, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and R&D tax benefits are among the measures supporting growth. Key policies such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes, Make in India, and the National Logistics Policy further reinforce India’s competitive edge.

 Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO, India, Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE, said,“Amidst evolving global geopolitical landscapes and economic challenges, India presents a compelling opportunity for growth. India’s manufacturing sector is on the cusp of a transformative journey, attracting significant interest on the global stage. This remarkable trajectory is driven by a combination of factors, including a stable investment environment, strategic government initiatives, and a thriving domestic market.

Continued economic development in both leading and emerging Asia Pacific markets will boost consumer demand for manufactured goods and further fuel the growth of the region’s manufacturing sector”.

Rami Kaushal, Managing Director, Consulting & Valuation Services, India, Middle East & Africa, CBRE, said, “India’s robust industrial infrastructure has been crucial in driving its manufacturing sector forward. It emphasises the nation’s appeal for ease of business, encourages collaboration, and enhances productivity. Furthermore, it has attracted foreign direct investments (FDIs), driven export growth, and created substantial employment opportunities, cumulatively contributing to the manufacturing sector’s expansion.

Additionally, the government is taking steps to attract private capital and implement administrative reforms to streamline the planning and execution of infrastructure investments, aiming to improve efficiency”.

 Ram Chandnani, Managing Director, Advisory & Transactions Services, CBRE India, said, “The government’s focus on “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives have set the stage for India’s manufacturing revolution. Strategic government initiatives, a thriving domestic market and a young and skilled workforce, are all coming together to make India a global manufacturing leader. India’s focus on trade agreements holds immense potential for its manufacturing sector and will act as a trade catalyst. This presents a golden opportunity for India’s manufacturers to diversify from the dominance of the services sector and capture a larger share of the global manufacturing pie”.

 Way Forward: India’s Push Towards Becoming a Manufacturing Giant

Advanced manufacturing leverages state-of-the-art technologies to streamline and optimise every aspect of the production process. By embracing these cutting-edge techniques, companies gain a significant competitive advantage, enhancing their productivity, efficiency, and adaptability.

 

Challenge Recommendations
Project timelines and profitability impacted by delays in land acquisition and obtaining necessary clearances -Nationwide single window clearance system.
-Expedite land acquisition and environmental clearances.
-Dedicated committees to oversee project planning and implementation.
-Securing land and other necessary approvals prior to issuing project tenders.
Complex infrastructure financing

 

-Undertake more comprehensive longer-term planning by all levels of government.
– Develop suitable investment vehicles and products to attract institutional investors.
– Generate revenue streams for new / existing projects
Lack of inter-department coordination delaying clearances / approvals
-Set clear objectives for all stakeholders and decision-makers.
-Establish an accountability matrix and a timebound dispute resolution mechanism.
Complex regulatory landscape – Adopt a uniform and simplified tax structure for infrastructure projects

-Develop resilient processes to decode and address complex regulations.

Limited connectivity of industrial complexes           – Adopt ‘comprehensive industrial clusters’ instead of individual parks such as textile clusters, chemical clusters, etc.
– New port infrastructure development planning to include integrated industrial zones and comprehensive last-mile road and rail connectivity.
Lack of a domestic container manufacturing ecosystem
– Include the manufacturing of Corten steel as an integral part of the policy essential to make the production of containers cheaper in India.

– Rework the PLI scheme for container manufacturing

The Significance of Architecture and Landscaping in a real estate development

The Indian real estate market has seen incredible expansion and transformation over the past few years. As the industry flourishes, there is a greater focus on creating holistic living experiences that go beyond just the four walls of a house, positioning architecture and landscaping as the cornerstones of a development, elevating both the value and appeal of new communities.

Combining these two areas improves a property’s aesthetic appeal as well as its usability, sustainability, and overall value. The industry’s dedication to designing spaces that meet consumer expectations had raised the bar for residential real estate, thus enhancing the value of a property – outlines Anjana Sastri, Director – Marketing, Sterling Developers.

 Elevating Living Standards Through Architecture

 The role of architecture in residential real estate has evolved from merely providing functional spaces to creating environments that upgrade the quality of life. The modern homebuyer is increasingly looking for spaces that reflect their aspirations and place an increasing emphasis on aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

Owing to this transformation, the real estate sector is now looking for creative architectural designs that include cutting-edge design principles with requirements like natural light and ventilation, as well as careful material selection, greatly lowering the carbon footprint. In addition, cost and energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly and sustainable materials are integrated with sophisticated technologies that meet contemporary needs and improve quality of life.

Creating Lush, Livable Communities through Landscaping

 While architecture carefully develops and addresses structural and aesthetic aspects, landscaping skillfully improves the surrounding spaces by combining natural elements with the built form. This enhances the overall aesthetic and practicality of the environment, creating spaces that allow residents to connect with nature, promoting wellbeing and emphasizing the property’s overall appeal.

Well-designed landscape can improve and significantly increase the value of a residential home by offering elements like gardens, water features, and tree-lined paths that all promote habitation and a sense of peace. By means of integration of native plants and sustainable water management techniques, landscape designers have the ability to transform living environments into ones that are both enjoyable and environmentally conscious, which enhances a property’s appeal and contributes to its environmental sustainability.

Prime benefits of architecture and landscaping

Essentially, the secret to converting ordinary residential real estate into desirable living spaces is the harmonious combination of landscaping and architecture. This not only raises property value but also fosters the creation of warm and inviting environments that improve long-term investment returns. Potential purchasers frequently form an opinion of a home based primarily on its aesthetic appeal, and well-planned architecture and landscaping can produce interesting, eye-catching areas.

In addition to offering green spaces that enhance mental and physical health and build a sense of community, well-thought-out design also improves quality of life. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and eco-friendly landscaping techniques conserve resources, encourage biodiversity, and lessen environmental impact. Furthermore, well-landscaped open spaces offer room for unwinding and exercise, improving general wellbeing.

In summary, residential real estate is being redefined by the tasteful addition of architecture and landscaping, which turns homes into vibrant, sustainable communities that cater to the needs of modern homeowners. Developers are enhancing the aesthetic appeal and use of residential structures as well as the overall quality of life for homeowners by carefully integrating built spaces with natural landscapes. A thorough approach can result in the development of a community that promotes a healthy lifestyle, environmentally responsible residents, and open green spaces for the community to enjoy. For the Indian residential real estate landscape to remain desirable, sustainable, and elevated in the years to come, the synergy between architecture and landscaping will continue to be a key factor.

Luxury Living Redefined: Trends and Innovations in India’s Luxury Residential Market

India’s luxury residential market has seen drastic changes over the years. A report by Cushman and Wakefield says Delhi-NCR is moving ahead among India’s major cities to offer luxury homes with prices to the tune of Rs 15,000 per sq. ft, accounting for 61 percent of all new residential projects. This shows that more spacious and opulent living has become a growing trend.

According to JLL, in H1 2024, Delhi NCR witnessed around 23,500 residential units being launched in the market. This is higher than the 22,707 units launched in 2023. As for new launches, Gurugram dominated with 55%, while Noida contributed 35%. Notably, more than 26% of these new launches, totaling about 6,200 units, comprised luxury apartments priced at over INR 5 crore

Luxury home demand is expected to move upward with rising incomes, greater urbanization, and upcoming airports like Jewar International Airport. It’s an exciting time for both buyers and investors in the luxury real estate market. Delhi-NCR is indeed experiencing huge investments in deluxe projects and a strong aspiration for spacious, high-class homes. Going by the development scale and pace, Delhi-NCR will certainly be one destination that promises unbeaten luxury living experiences to those looking for nothing but the best in terms of comfort and style.

A recent report by Anarock claims there is a growing trend for luxury homes with environmentally friendly features. Luxury residences above Rs 1.5 crore accounted for 45% of all housing sales in the National Capital Region in the first half of 2024. The figure has risen from just 3% in 2019, clearly reflecting a sharp swing towards luxury living that integrates environmental sustainability.

The desire for larger, more open living spaces is also shaping the luxury real estate market. With a focus on comfort and spaciousness, many buyers are shifting toward properties with expansive floor plans and ample outdoor areas. The trend toward open spaces, including green areas and elite clubhouses, reflects a preference for environments that offer both privacy and opportunities for socializing.

Today, people expect features such as private pools, home theatres, spa-like bathrooms, and gourmet kitchens in luxury properties. These features not only enhance the living experience but also cater to the desire for indulgence and convenience in modern homes. Smart security systems are essential parts of homes today. Home automation and voice-activated controls may control lighting, temperature, security, and entertainment systems, all of which are controllable through a smartphone app or voice commands. This increases both the convenience and safety features of such a house.

Prateek Group is one of the renowned developers with luxury projects in Noida and Ghaziabad. With a sharp insight into emerging trends, Prateek Group continues to innovate to deliver residences that epitomize the very essence of luxury living. The Group’s upcoming premium luxury project is focused on personalization, spacious designs, and sustainable practices. This development promises to encapsulate the latest trends in luxury housing, offering buyers ultimate comfort and style.

The luxury real estate sector is an evolving market characterized by the integration of personalization, technology, and seamless sustainability. They are not only opulently expensive surroundings but integrate personal preferences with advanced technology. As trends continue to change, luxury real estate will see even more innovation, adaptation, and evolving customer preferences.